tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-35427020174231146852024-03-13T06:01:50.262-04:00So Simply SaraSara Kovach / Dare to be Different - Teach!http://www.blogger.com/profile/13384883513104579815noreply@blogger.comBlogger346125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3542702017423114685.post-15627731587580970702016-02-10T13:39:00.002-05:002016-02-10T13:39:55.859-05:00Forest Secrets by Laurie Woodward<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5lNp_3LySf6OnRpnyote0oKrD8CFsBd4te7N5zIt4dIEgyKnSZw05iwZoTjgYH6hWkQxaJ5NnaIgBFCnDwt78KjbD6NKQD_H_SLNnHrGetK2sXmlL8joxEmWPI2Fq_oOOAzo5SCe3bhOZ/s1600/forest+secrets.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5lNp_3LySf6OnRpnyote0oKrD8CFsBd4te7N5zIt4dIEgyKnSZw05iwZoTjgYH6hWkQxaJ5NnaIgBFCnDwt78KjbD6NKQD_H_SLNnHrGetK2sXmlL8joxEmWPI2Fq_oOOAzo5SCe3bhOZ/s320/forest+secrets.jpg" width="207" /></span></a><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><i><b><u><span style="color: #274e13;">Forest Secrets</span></u></b></i> </span>by Laurie Woodward</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><b>Publisher: </b> Laurie Woodward</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><b>Publication Date: </b> October 9, 2015</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><b>ISBN: </b> <span style="background-color: white; color: #333333;">0692510990</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><b>Genre:</b> fantasy, magic</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><b><span style="font-size: large;">Book Synopsis: </span></b> The half-tree, half-human beings lived a secret existence deep in the old growth forest. Until now. When 11-year old Daisy Castillo discovers a plot to destroy the forest, she tries to halt the approaching evil while keeping these magical creatures from being discovered. But danger waits in every shadow. For if these corrupt men succeed, the Forest People will die. A few surprises are in store, as some unknown and undiscovered friendships hold the key to her success. Fate hangs in the balance as Daisy faces her deepest fears, including heartbreak from the past, to rise up against all odds. Suspenseful, mysterious, and full of danger, Forest Secrets captures the enchantment of nature and the power of friendship in this classic tale of good vs. evil.</span></blockquote>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><b><span style="font-size: large;">My Thoughts: </span></b> </span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">I really enjoyed this story!! This book has been added to my read-aloud list for my 3rd grade class. I went into this story not knowing anything about it, or if I would like it at all. Within the first few pages my interest was nabbed. This is a cute little tale about an adventurous 11-year old girl from a split family, who moves to a new town. She meets 2 new friends, one a boy who is a couple of years older, and the other a "forest friend". This trio must deal with some not so pleasant life events, but it is presented in a positive manner. In addition to the real-life issues the children deal with, they also learn about and help address issues involving the environment and ecological challenges.</span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">This author writes in a way that makes you feel like you are talking to a friend. The story was easy to sit down and take in in one sitting - just a quick chat!! Although the tale is a magical one, the setting feels oh so familiar. I live in a rural are surrounded by woods, and I can just imagine walking up the path and encountering "tree people". This story will now leave me with the idea that maybe there are such creatures out there. Who are we to question it!!!!!!</span>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b><span style="font-size: large;">About the Author:</span></b> </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Laurie Woodward is a school teacher and the author of the fantasy books: The Artania Chronicles. Her Artania: The Pharaohs’ Cry is the first children’s book in the series. Laurie is also a collaborator on the award-winning Dean and JoJo anti-bullying DVD Resolutions. The European published version of Dean and JoJo for which she was the ghost writer was translated by Jochen Lehner who has also translated books for the Dalai Lama and Deepak Chopra, In addition to writing, Ms. Woodward is an award winning peace consultant who helps other educators teach children how to stop bullying, avoid arguments, and maintain healthy friendships. Laurie writes her novels in the coastal towns of California.</span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"> <a href="http://www.artania.net/">Website</a> <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/6454013.Laurie_Woodward">Goodreads</a></span></blockquote>
<a href="http://www.pinterest.com/pin/create/extension/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.blogger.com%2Fblogger.g%3FblogID%3D3542702017423114685%23editor%2Fsrc%3Dheader&media=https%3A%2F%2F1.bp.blogspot.com%2F-cdmTziki_nM%2FVruDtjtTQ7I%2FAAAAAAAAV4w%2Fkw8ywJrIc5Y%2Fs1600%2FLaurie%252BWoodward.jpg&xm=h&xv=sa1.37.01&xuid=RU8rRKVx6x5B&description=" style="background-color: transparent; background-image: url(data:image/png; border: none; cursor: pointer; display: none; height: 20px; left: 379px; opacity: 0.85; position: absolute; top: 734px; width: 40px; z-index: 8675309;"></a><a href="http://www.pinterest.com/pin/create/extension/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.blogger.com%2Fblogger.g%3FblogID%3D3542702017423114685%23editor%2Fsrc%3Dheader&media=https%3A%2F%2F1.bp.blogspot.com%2F-cdmTziki_nM%2FVruDtjtTQ7I%2FAAAAAAAAV4w%2Fkw8ywJrIc5Y%2Fs1600%2FLaurie%252BWoodward.jpg&xm=h&xv=sa1.37.01&xuid=RU8rRKVx6x5B&description=" style="background-color: transparent; background-image: url(data:image/png; border: none; cursor: pointer; display: none; height: 20px; left: 379px; opacity: 0.85; position: absolute; top: 734px; width: 40px; z-index: 8675309;"></a>Sara Kovach / Dare to be Different - Teach!http://www.blogger.com/profile/13384883513104579815noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3542702017423114685.post-60413236969401245782016-02-08T20:34:00.002-05:002016-02-08T20:34:29.313-05:00<a href="http://www.tomoson.com/?code=TOP0ee99d14b83f58b29c8f02d37a623c9c" rel="nofollow"><img src="http://www.tomoson.com/images/front/pixel.png" style="display: none;" /></a><br />
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<span class="a-size-large" id="productTitle" style="box-sizing: border-box; line-height: 1.3 !important; text-rendering: optimizelegibility;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">The Sorcery Code: A Fantasy Novel of Magic, Romance, Danger, and Intrigue (Volume 1)</span></span></h1>
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<span class="a-size-large" style="box-sizing: border-box; line-height: 1.3 !important; text-rendering: optimizelegibility;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><i>by Dina Zales / Anna Zaires</i></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span class="a-size-large" style="box-sizing: border-box; line-height: 1.3 !important; text-rendering: optimizelegibility;"><b>Publisher:</b> </span><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333;">Mozaika Publications</span></span></div>
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<span class="a-size-large" style="box-sizing: border-box; line-height: 1.3 !important; text-rendering: optimizelegibility;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><b>Publication Date:</b> December 6, 2013</span></span></div>
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<span class="a-size-large" style="box-sizing: border-box; line-height: 1.3 !important; text-rendering: optimizelegibility;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><b>Genre: </b> Fantasy</span></span></div>
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">Book Synopsis: </span> From the internationally bestselling authors who brought you the Krinar Chronicles comes a captivating tale of intrigue, love, and danger in a world where sorcery is entwined with science . . . </b><br />
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Once a respected member of the Sorcerer Council and now an outcast, Blaise has spent the last year of his life working on a special magical object. The goal is to allow anyone to do magic, not just the sorcerer elite. The outcome of his quest is unlike anything he could’ve ever imagined – because, instead of an object, he creates Her.<br />
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She is Gala, and she is anything but inanimate. Born in the Spell Realm, she is beautiful and highly intelligent – and nobody knows what she’s capable of. She will do anything to experience the world . . . even leave the man she is beginning to fall for.<br />
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Augusta, a powerful sorceress and Blaise’s former fiancée, sees Blaise’s deed as the ultimate hubris and Gala as an abomination that must be destroyed. In her quest to save the human race, Augusta will forge new alliances, becoming tangled in a web of intrigue that stretches further than any of them suspect. She may even have to turn to her new lover Barson, a ruthless warrior who might have an agenda of his own . . . </blockquote>
<b><span style="font-size: large;">My Thoughts: </span></b> The Sorcery Code is not your typical fantasy! There is so much that left me second guessing myself; so many times my predictions were way off!!! Don't you love when that happens???<br />
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The story starts off a little on the slow side, but once you start becoming familiar with the characters, you are drawn right in and want more about them. I found it charming that Blaise was out for the commoner. More often than not, the powerful sorcerers are evil and want to become more powerful, but not so for Blaise. <br />
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I found the whole idea of Blaise's created object, Gala quite interesting. The development of this character as the story goes on is quite creative, and intuitive in and of itself. I asked myself several times "now why couldn't I think of something like that?". She is my favorite character of the story. She is as innocent and out of control as a child, yet when her emotions take hold, she is all strength and power - much more controlled.<br />
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This story is built around the view points of four characters. The use of flashback throughout is very thoughtful. I did decide to add the narration performed by Emily Durante, and I am glad I did. She pulls you in with her voice, and it just adds to the enjoyment, not to mention, I can multi-task and don't have to put the story down when I need to do some little task. <br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjg2vyx24u5jj-M8S-3fJD8x25mGjJHEMueOWGcIx2k7v3-83Z9JS1a8yk2Lx2f2LCcMhVqmAN3Kclkkih5_3VHXBVWYRCo0_TVNaDyp1WhOf8PUItvY6st8RSMFK8vMWTz9LKwVy0jjtQ/s1600/dima+zales.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjg2vyx24u5jj-M8S-3fJD8x25mGjJHEMueOWGcIx2k7v3-83Z9JS1a8yk2Lx2f2LCcMhVqmAN3Kclkkih5_3VHXBVWYRCo0_TVNaDyp1WhOf8PUItvY6st8RSMFK8vMWTz9LKwVy0jjtQ/s1600/dima+zales.jpg" /></a><br />
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">About the Authors: </span></b> <i><span style="font-size: large;">Dima Zales </span></i> <br />
Dima Zales is a full-time science fiction and fantasy author residing in Palm Coast, Florida. Prior to becoming a writer, he worked in the software development industry in New York as both a programmer and an executive. From high-frequency trading software for big banks to mobile apps for popular magazines, Dima has done it all. In 2013, he left the software industry in order to concentrate on his writing career.<br />
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Dima holds a Master’s degree in Computer Science from NYU and a dual undergraduate degree in Computer Science / Psychology from Brooklyn College. He also has a number of hobbies and interests, the most unusual of which might be professional-level mentalism. He simulates mind-reading on stage and close-up, and has done shows for corporations, wealthy individuals, and friends.<br />
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He is also into healthy eating and fitness, so he should live long enough to finish all the book projects he starts. In fact, he very much hopes to catch the technological advancements that might let him live forever (biologically or otherwise). Aside from that, he also enjoys learning about current and future technologies that might enhance our lives, including artificial intelligence, biofeedback, brain-to-computer interfaces, and brain-enhancing implants.<br />
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In addition to his own works, Dima has collaborated on a number of romance novels with his wife, Anna Zaires. The Krinar Chronicles, an erotic science fiction series, has been a bestseller in its categories and has been recognized by the likes of Marie Claire and Woman’s Day. If you like erotic romance with a unique plot, please feel free to check it out, especially since the first book in the series (Close Liaisons) is available for free everywhere. Keep in mind, though, Dima Zales's books are going to be much more PG 13 . . . at least that’s the plan for now.<br />
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Anna Zaires is the love of his life and a huge inspiration in every aspect of his writing. She definitely adds her magic touch to anything Dima creates, and the books would not be the same without her. Dima’s fans are strongly encouraged to learn more about Anna and her work at http://www.annazaires.com/<span style="background-color: transparent;"> </span></blockquote>
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<span style="background-color: transparent;"><i><span style="font-size: large;">Anna Zaires </span></i> </span>Anna Zaires fell in love with books at the age of five, when her grandmother taught her to read. She wrote her first story shortly thereafter. Since then, she has always lived partially in a fantasy world where the only limits were those of her imagination. Currently residing in Florida, Anna is happily married to Dima Zales (a science fiction and fantasy author) and closely collaborates with him on all their works.<br />
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After graduating from the University of Chicago with a degree in Economics, Anna spent eight years on Wall Street analyzing stocks and writing research reports. In 2013, she became a full-time author, pursuing her lifelong dream of writing romance novels.<br />
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Dima Zales is the love of her life and a huge inspiration in all aspects of her writing. Every book Anna writes is a product of their unique collaborative process.<br />
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In addition to reading and writing, Anna enjoys drinking tea (coconut oolong, anyone?), watching addictive TV shows, and discussing book ideas during long walks with her amazing husband.<br />
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She loves hearing from her readers, so please don't hesitate to contact her through her website or connect with her on Facebook, where she hangs out way too often. Also, please visit her husband and collaborator, Dima Zales, at www.dimazales.com and check out their fantasy & science fiction books.</blockquote>
<a href="http://www.tomoson.com/?code=BOTTOM0ee99d14b83f58b29c8f02d37a623c9c" rel="nofollow"><img src="http://www.tomoson.com/images/front/pixel.png" style="display: none;" /></a>Sara Kovach / Dare to be Different - Teach!http://www.blogger.com/profile/13384883513104579815noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3542702017423114685.post-45683519819268347812014-05-01T20:20:00.002-04:002014-07-25T17:38:27.356-04:00The Chicken Squad: The First Misadventure by Doreen Cronin<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<b><span style="font-size: large;"><i><a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/18668524-the-chicken-squad?from_search=true">The Chicken Squad: The First Misadventure</a></i></span></b></div>
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<i><span style="font-size: large;">by Doreen Cronin</span></i></div>
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<b>Publisher: </b> Simon & Schuster</div>
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<b>Publication Date:</b> April 8 2014</div>
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<b>ISBN: </b> 978-1442496767</div>
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<b>Genre: </b> Children's Fiction</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrwVeGZPR_IlR4SAExyUCqYJwASl2sGnPUFIUFPZvWkZ-ncjM0cg3FX0K7NdKpblnAAvacYJkQcO9foLTJ9P4TYdXP5NZIwKb_xBZWff4er2Pd6_TgJbFyPTQcu-WVemEKADojCEQSuSfJ/s1600/The+Chicken+Squad.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrwVeGZPR_IlR4SAExyUCqYJwASl2sGnPUFIUFPZvWkZ-ncjM0cg3FX0K7NdKpblnAAvacYJkQcO9foLTJ9P4TYdXP5NZIwKb_xBZWff4er2Pd6_TgJbFyPTQcu-WVemEKADojCEQSuSfJ/s1600/The+Chicken+Squad.jpg" height="320" width="237" /></a></div>
<b><span style="font-size: large;">Book Synopsis: </span></b> They’re darling. They’re daring. They know their shapes! They’re chicks on a mission—and on this, their first (mis)adventure, the Chicken Squad launches a galactic backyard expedition.<br />
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Meet the Chicken Squad: Dirt, Sugar, Poppy, and Sweetie. These chicks are not your typical barnyard puffs of fluff, and they are not about to spend their days pecking chicken feed and chasing bugs. No sir, they’re too busy solving mysteries and fighting crime.<br />
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So when Squirrel comes barreling into the chicken coop, the chicks know they’re about to get a case. But with his poor knowledge of shapes (“Big” is not a shape, Squirrel!) and utter fear of whatever it is that’s out there, the panicky Squirrel is NO HELP. Good thing these chicks are professionals.<br />
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But even professionals get worried. Especially once they see that round, shiny, green, BIG thing in the yard. What if it’s a UFO full of aliens who want chickens as pets? It’s up to the Chicken Squad to crack a case that just might be out of this world.</blockquote>
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">My Thoughts:</span></b> What a fun, creative book. This is a spin-off from Cronin's <i>J.J. Tulley Mysteries</i>. The chickens now have their own stories, although J.J. is still a integral part - retired, and their protector. <br />
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Doreen Cronin is very well known for her silly animal stories - many of which I have in my classroom library. In The Chicken Squad, Cronin once again has managed to pack so much within a story. There is humor, a familiar dog, a "big and scary" mystery, very charismatic and personable chicks, and even a little geometry. <br />
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This book is an excellent beginning chapter book. It is easy to follow. Readers are immediately introduced to the characters and quickly drawn into a humorous mystery. Children will be easily attracted to the ridiculous interactions and situations. the vocabulary is pretty simple, and there is enough repetition that will make it easy for a struggling reader to catch on. The pattern and structure of the text lend itself for a perfect read-aloud book. It would be a story that children would not want to put down, but continue to read or listen to.<br />
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As a third grade teacher, I see this as a book I want to have in my classroom. I am always looking for good chapter books - especially ones that my lower readers will be able to pick up and read independently. This will be a book that my children will read and eagerly share with others. <br />
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I see this book later becoming a children's animated cartoon. I think the writing, the characters, as well as the cute illustrations have already allowed me to create an animated cartoon in my mind.<br />
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<blockquote style="background-color: #fff380; border: 2px solid #666; padding: 10px;">
<b><span style="font-size: large;">About the Author:</span></b> Doreen Cronin was a practicing attorney in Manhattan when her first book Click, Clack Moo: Cows That Type became a publishing success. But her book was not published overnight, in fact, she had written this barnyard tale even before attending law school but only received rejection letters from publishers. Five years after submitting the original manuscript she got a call from a publisher who wanted to turn her story into a book and the rest is history!<br />
<br />
The busy life of a writer left no room for courtroom litigation and arbitration so Doreen made the leap to being a full-time children’s book author. She then teamed up once again with illustrator Betsy Lewin to write another hilarious barnyard tale, Giggle, Giggle, Quack, that continues the escapades of these lovable animals on a farm.<br />
<br />
In Doreen’s latest book, Diary of a Worm, she explores the daily life of a lovable worm. Who knew that the underground dwellings and activities of worms could be so funny. Readers may even find that worm’s life is much the same as theirs except worm eats his homework and his head looks a whole lot like his rear!<br />
<br />
Doreen was born in Queens and grew up in Long Island. She graduated from Pennsylvannia State University and St. John’s University School of Law. She currently resides in New York with her husband and dog “Ruffie.” <a href="http://www.doreencronin.com/index.html">Author Website</a> <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/3162.Doreen_Cronin">Goodreads</a> <a href="http://pages.simonandschuster.com/chicken-squad">Series Website</a> </blockquote>
Sara Kovach / Dare to be Different - Teach!http://www.blogger.com/profile/13384883513104579815noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3542702017423114685.post-5619306184022709802014-03-29T17:06:00.000-04:002014-03-29T18:10:48.933-04:00Somewhere in France by Jennifer Robson<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBsnJFFL6wSIJVzcb9oE1f3U9MDOEFr3qIDSN2FCDr_Wd9ZH4-e6PBKaY3acd0JSrIJeFGscHoiPGHweCw5kdZwtQ_ksEVoORYNU7Qr5eqjFo05ht5NBOI-UrHArTh2nSebf_A7mUCB2i1/s1600/Somewhere+in+France.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBsnJFFL6wSIJVzcb9oE1f3U9MDOEFr3qIDSN2FCDr_Wd9ZH4-e6PBKaY3acd0JSrIJeFGscHoiPGHweCw5kdZwtQ_ksEVoORYNU7Qr5eqjFo05ht5NBOI-UrHArTh2nSebf_A7mUCB2i1/s1600/Somewhere+in+France.jpg" height="320" width="212" /></a></div>
<h2 style="text-align: center;">
<b>Somewhere in France</b></h2>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">by Jennifer Robson</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><b>Publisher: </b> <span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; line-height: 19px; text-align: left;">William Morrow Paperbacks</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><b>Publication date:</b> December 31, 2013</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><b>ISBN:</b> <span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; line-height: 19px; text-align: left;">978-0062273451</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><b>Genre:</b> historical fiction</span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: Times;"><span style="font-size: large;">Book Synopsis: </span> L</span></b><span style="color: #131313; font-family: Georgia;">ady Elizabeth Neville-Ashford wants to travel the world, pursue
a career, and marry for love. But in 1914, the stifling restrictions of
aristocratic British society and her mother’s rigid expectations forbid Lily
from following her heart. When war breaks out, the spirited young woman seizes
her chance for independence. Defying her parents, she moves to London and
eventually becomes an ambulance driver in the newly formed Women’s Army Auxiliary
Corps—an exciting and treacherous job that takes her close to the Western
Front.</span><span style="font-family: Times;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #131313; font-family: Georgia;">Assigned to a field hospital in
France, Lily is reunited with Robert Fraser, her dear brother Edward’s best friend.
The handsome Scottish surgeon has always encouraged Lily’s dreams. She doesn’t
care that Robbie grew up in poverty—she yearns for their friendly affection to
become something more. Lily is the most beautiful—and forbidden—woman Robbie
has ever known. Fearful for her life, he’s determined to keep her safe, even if
it means breaking her heart.</span><span style="font-family: Times;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #131313; font-family: Georgia;">In a world divided by class, filled
with uncertainty and death, can their hope for love survive. . . or will it
become another casualty of this tragic war?</span></div>
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">My Thoughts:</span></b> It really surprises me that this is a debut novel. The author is very skilled at including the historical details without allowing it to become dull and boring. I was immediately drawn in, not wanting to put it down. I think the idea of the forbidden romance was the lure. The blurb on the front cover claiming a similarity to Downton Abbey helped too. <br />
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I really enjoy reading about this era and the hierarchy of the society. A high-society girl defying her parents in search of something more. Having all the money at her fingertips was not enough. Lily wanted to taker her part and felt it her duty to do something in this time of war. She was not satisfied staying at home being told what she was not allowed to do. She did not want to have and arranged marriage to someone she did not love. What a wonderful character! She gave up the world to seek her dreams. <br />
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Although Lily holds onto and follows her desires, the author was adept at showing the changes and growth in this character. She provided a nice cast of supporting characters that allowed Lily to be herself and be comfortable in her ever changing world - going from having everything to nothing - and back again. <br />
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I really respect the control that Robbie shows throughout the novel. For the most part, he is the underdog - coming from the lower class - not of the same world as Lily. The only reason the even crossed paths was because he was the best friend of her brother, Edward. Lily's mother disapproved of the friendship between Edward and Robbie, and even more so of any relationship between Lily and Robbie. Robbie, now a surgeon, does his best to distance himself from Lily, but finds he cannot get her off his mind. It becomes even more difficult when she is working right under his nose, at the same hospital. He spends his days worrying about her safety.<br />
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This book was an easy read; not too complex with al the historical information, but straightforward and casual in its approach. If you enjoy historical fiction, you will definitely find this book worth the read. I excitedly await the follow-up coming next year (2015). <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNOAFrisXj1Mt4_RmBCkU2MlxmugiYNsFCDNwyEm87lun45B7UEgDt9Jy4ZolR5dY5H4YVy8f76-1xHHap25dmwIoG2mCtriJphXjQipeQF_9kZ3BRWwBPRhwI_uHOorb1hnODtB4l6GN4/s1600/Jennifer+Robson.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNOAFrisXj1Mt4_RmBCkU2MlxmugiYNsFCDNwyEm87lun45B7UEgDt9Jy4ZolR5dY5H4YVy8f76-1xHHap25dmwIoG2mCtriJphXjQipeQF_9kZ3BRWwBPRhwI_uHOorb1hnODtB4l6GN4/s1600/Jennifer+Robson.png" /></a></div>
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">About the Author: </span></b> <span style="color: #131313; font-family: Georgia;">Jennifer Robson first learned about the Great War from her
father, acclaimed historian Stuart Robson, and later served as an official
guide at the Canadian National War Memorial at Vimy Ridge, France. A former
copy editor, she holds a doctorate in British economic and social history from
the University of Oxford. She lives in Toronto, Canada, with her husband and
young children. <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/7127292.Jennifer_Robson">Goodreads </a> <a href="https://www.facebook.com/AuthorJenniferRobson?ref=ts&fref=ts">Facebook </a> <a href="https://twitter.com/AuthorJenniferR">Twitter</a> <a href="http://www.jennifer-robson.com/">Website</a></span></div>
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<a href="http://www.bloglovin.com/blog/3665029/?claim=wshttt79z57">Follow my blog with Bloglovin</a>Sara Kovach / Dare to be Different - Teach!http://www.blogger.com/profile/13384883513104579815noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3542702017423114685.post-80132710184482005572014-03-28T20:30:00.000-04:002014-03-28T20:30:25.059-04:00It's Been a While...............I know I have been gone from my blog for quite some time, but it has not been totally forgotten. I am slowly going to make my way back to the blogging world & book reviewing. I have missed it so much. I absolutely love to read, but had gotten so busy with my job -teaching, and my change in positions that I really had no time for reading. And ..... what was I thinking. Me and not reading - that just does not work. So, I have started back in with my favorite genre - historical fiction. <br />
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Tomorrow I will be posting a review for<b><i> <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/18090117-somewhere-in-france?from_search=true">Somewhere in France: A Novel of the Great War</a> </i></b>by Jennifer Robson. <br />
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<br />Sara Kovach / Dare to be Different - Teach!http://www.blogger.com/profile/13384883513104579815noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3542702017423114685.post-74068205334394371872012-11-05T13:38:00.000-05:002014-01-24T12:32:21.097-05:00The Unlikely and Unexpected Gift<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAy86HFCCt73rHEm-1rSKOUr-e3IusgQz8awJiTjVz7uHDm-nt-07xJbwzwFVseDM0rpqgLOpYPHFt8371S6LaXWU8b4cJFOg6LoRWm71iqfW4aNejrFs4BzQS7eIqbl_Vopk8hgYu7GuO/s1600/Unlikely-Gift-Treasure-Blume-Banner2+(1).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAy86HFCCt73rHEm-1rSKOUr-e3IusgQz8awJiTjVz7uHDm-nt-07xJbwzwFVseDM0rpqgLOpYPHFt8371S6LaXWU8b4cJFOg6LoRWm71iqfW4aNejrFs4BzQS7eIqbl_Vopk8hgYu7GuO/s640/Unlikely-Gift-Treasure-Blume-Banner2+(1).jpg" height="267" width="640" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><b><a href="http://www.goodreads.com/book/show/15877612-the-unlikely-gift-of-treasure-blume">The Unlikely Gift of Treasure Blume</a></b> </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">by Lisa Rumsey Harris</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>Publisher</b>: Sweetwater Books</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>Publication Date</b>: November 13th 2012</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>ISBN: </b> 1462110266</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>Genre: </b> Feel-good, romance, humor</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b><span style="font-size: large;">Book Synopsis: </span></b> With her love of sweaters, goofy hair, and awkward manners—not to mention her family curse—Treasure Blume knows love is not in her future. That is, until she matches wits with Dennis Cameron, a divorced chef with a six-year-old daughter. Full of mischief, mayhem, and laugh-out-loud humor, this is an unlikely love story you’ll want to read over and over again!</span></blockquote>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b><span style="font-size: large;">My Thoughts:</span></b> What an amazing book! This is one that everyone should read, and I mean everyone!!!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">If we could all be like Treasure Blume, this world would be such a brighter place to live. She has such a wonderful gift - one that allows her to look beyond what others see in her so that she can choose to do the right thing - even when others think she is crazy. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Treasure is the type of teacher that I so wish I could be. She always goes that extra mile for the needs of her students! What a breath of fresh air. Even if the authorities are not sure she is doing what is right, and even if she is not sure it is safe, she takes that extra risk. Students would be blessed to have her for a teacher. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Beyond that is the romance. I don't know that I have ever read a more cleanly written romance story. So sweet and inviting. I found myself cheering Treasure along - she so deserved to have that special someone in her life, if ever anyone did. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">And, what can I say about Grammy Blume. She is such a fun character. She is off the wall, so out-there. Grammy was a wonderful addition to Treasure! </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Now, everyone needs to go out there and get the book and read it. I promise, you will not be disappointed. You will probably read it in one sitting - it is that addictive!!!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><b>About the Author:</b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Lisa Rumsey Harris is from Downey, Idaho, where she grew up writing stories and riding horses. She graduated magna cum laude from BYU with a degree in English and a minor in Humanities.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">She honed her writing skills while working at BYU Development Communications, where she wrote brochures, letters, and conducting notes for President Merrill J. Bateman. She received her Master’s Degree in English in August 2003.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Sparked by the experiences of her own grandmother, Lisa’s thesis explored the dissonance between real ranch women and the representations of ranch women in literature. She presented her findings at the Hawaiian International Conference on the Arts and Humanities.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Lisa’s passion for the American West is rivaled only by her passions for teaching and writing. She began teaching Honors Writing courses in Fall 2003. Her teaching inspiration is her own mother, who as Lisa’s high school Spanish teacher, taught her the importance of finding innovative approaches to encourage active learning.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">As a writer, Lisa has won numerous awards for her short stories, essays, and cowboy poetry, including a Sunstone award in the Brookie and D.K Brown Memorial Fiction Contest. Lisa lives in Orem, Utah, with her multi-talented husband, her adorable sunshine daughters, and her ancient Siamese cat. </span><br />
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<a href="http://www.treasureblume.com/"></a><a href="http://www.treasureblume.com/"><b><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">http://www.treasureblume.com</span></b></a></div>
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<br />Sara Kovach / Dare to be Different - Teach!http://www.blogger.com/profile/13384883513104579815noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3542702017423114685.post-22812205253712547832012-11-05T12:06:00.003-05:002012-11-05T12:06:36.831-05:00The Effects of a Storm<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">We just got electricity & cable (phone, internet, TV) back!!! It is hard to believe that a snowstorm can be so <i>devastating</i>!! In my life I have lived through many storms and blizzards, but none quite as messy as this one!! My driveway was blocked because of fallen trees - this in addition to all the outages. I sat and listened to snaps and pops of trees breaking for 2 days/nights. That was <i>extremely scary</i>, as my home is surrounded by trees. I am just happy that everyone is safe.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Check some of these out - this is the road I drive to go to work each day:</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">So anyway. I was supposed to have 3 posts up and ready by now. Unfortunately, this is where the effects come into play. With no electricity, I had no way to keep my iPad charged. So, I was only able to read one of said books. I am in the process of reading the other two. I am getting ready to post one review today, and the others will follow in the next day or two. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">I love reading my books on my iPad, but I guess there is some good in having a hard copy of a book. I had all the time in the world to read the past several days, but unfortunately, could not. Had I had a hard copy, they would have been finished. </span></div>
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Sara Kovach / Dare to be Different - Teach!http://www.blogger.com/profile/13384883513104579815noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3542702017423114685.post-60784923671339224352012-10-29T09:29:00.003-04:002012-10-29T09:31:57.946-04:00A Touch of Christmas<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: x-large;">Saving Savanna by Sara Fitzgerald</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><b style="color: #444444; line-height: 18px;">Publisher</b><span style="background-color: white; color: #444444; line-height: 18px;">: Sweetwater Books (Cedar Fort Publishing)</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #444444; line-height: 18px;"><b>Publication Date: </b></span><span style="color: #444444;"><span style="line-height: 18px;">October 9th 2012</span></span></span><br />
<b style="color: #444444; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: x-large; line-height: 18px;">ISBN:</b><span style="background-color: white; color: #444444; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large; line-height: 18px;"> </span><span style="color: #444444; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large; line-height: 18px;">1462111009</span><br />
<b style="color: #444444; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: x-large; line-height: 18px;">Genre: </b><span style="background-color: white; color: #444444; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large; line-height: 18px;"> Christmas / Family</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Devan can’t help but blame God for his wife’s death, so the last thing he wants to do this holiday season is celebrate. But when his daughter, Savanna, makes a special Christmas wish, their little family will never be the same. Filled with faith and tenderness, this heartwarming story is sure to remind you of the real power behind the magic of Christmas.</span></blockquote>
<span style="background-color: white; color: #444444; line-height: 18px;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Short, but Oh, so sweet!!! Don't let the short length of this book turn you off, it packs so much into its 16 pages. So sweet and heart tugging, Sara Fitzgerald knows how to tell a family story. If you or someone you knows needs a reminder of the true meaning of Christmas, this is a must read. What a perfect read for those of us who are busy at this time of year.</span></span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #444444; line-height: 18px;">I have put this on my must share list for the holiday season. This is one that I will pick up and read year after year. </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Sara Fitzgerald was named the 2006 Writer of the Year for the League of Utah Writers. She lives with her husband and daughter in Salt Lake City. She loves the Christmas season. To find out more about Saving Savanna and the author Sara Fitzgerald, visit her website: <a href="http://www.sarafitzgerald.com/">http://www.sarafitzgerald.com</a>. </span></blockquote>
<br />Sara Kovach / Dare to be Different - Teach!http://www.blogger.com/profile/13384883513104579815noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3542702017423114685.post-55384084291989264892012-10-18T21:02:00.001-04:002012-10-18T21:02:12.358-04:00It's Been a While!<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Wow! Has it really been since the end of July since I last posted? All I can say is -<b><i> I'm glad to be back</i></b>!!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">I moved to a new job - hired in mid July as a 3rd grade teacher. I had been an inclusive special education teacher for the past 8 years. I did not realize just what a change it would be. It has been very time consuming! <b><i>And - I love it!!! I love my 20 kids too!!!</i></b></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Anyway, I am looking forward to posting again. I will be taking part in some wonderful book tours from <a href="http://www.cedarfort.com/"><i>Cedar Fort</i></a>. I have fallen in love with each and every book I have read from this publisher! They sure know how to pick their authors and books!!! </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">The first title I will be reviewing is <a href="http://www.goodreads.com/book/show/15877612-the-unlikely-gift-of-treasure-blume"><b><i>The Unlikely Gift of Treasure Blume</i></b></a> by Lisa Rumsey Harris. </span><br />
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<br />Sara Kovach / Dare to be Different - Teach!http://www.blogger.com/profile/13384883513104579815noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3542702017423114685.post-912656845030248012012-07-24T00:00:00.001-04:002012-07-24T00:00:02.325-04:00<br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="text-align: -webkit-auto;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="background-color: white;"><a href="http://shouldbereading.wordpress.com/?s=Teaser+Tuesdays" style="color: #3778cd; text-decoration: none;"><b><i>Teaser Tuesdays</i></b></a> is a weekly bookish meme, hosted by <i>MizB @<a href="http://shouldbereading.wordpress.com/" style="color: #4d469c; text-decoration: none;">Should Be Reading</a>.</i> Anyone can play along! Just do the following:</span></span></span></span></span></span></span><ul style="background-color: white; list-style-image: initial; list-style-position: initial; margin: 0.5em 0px; padding: 0px 2.5em; text-align: -webkit-auto;">
<li style="border: none; margin: 0px 0px 0.25em; padding: 0.25em 0px;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Grab your current read</span></li>
<li style="border: none; margin: 0px 0px 0.25em; padding: 0.25em 0px;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Open to a random page</span></li>
<li style="border: none; margin: 0px 0px 0.25em; padding: 0.25em 0px;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Share two (2) “teaser” sentences from somewhere on that page</span></li>
<li style="border: none; margin: 0px 0px 0.25em; padding: 0.25em 0px;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"> BE CAREFUL NOT TO INCLUDE SPOILERS! (make sure that what you share doesn't give too much away! You don’t want to ruin the book for others!)</span></li>
<li style="border: none; margin: 0px 0px 0.25em; padding: 0.25em 0px;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Share the title & author, too, so that other TT participants can add the book to their TBR Lists if they like your teasers!</span></li>
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<b><i><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">My Teaser:</span></i></b></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj878QvR2cHRlYiudU4gUDGRvR8RIUuYeQ0oQtdMDIeG5B38dBGGoFz3sf-2MqQ-ecyPXVeSU081Pakud1B-gGmGJvydqQW0wH2cTM1iK-A6HZtWU2em2-8jKT5OEyfm5lBt0QzmBGHvJ6B/s1600/2020+Players.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj878QvR2cHRlYiudU4gUDGRvR8RIUuYeQ0oQtdMDIeG5B38dBGGoFz3sf-2MqQ-ecyPXVeSU081Pakud1B-gGmGJvydqQW0wH2cTM1iK-A6HZtWU2em2-8jKT5OEyfm5lBt0QzmBGHvJ6B/s320/2020+Players.jpg" width="213" /></span></a><i><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">"She quickly yanked the ribbon off and flipped the box top off as well. Inside there was a dozen roses. They were all dead. She screamed."</span></i></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #444444; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><a href="http://www.goodreads.com/book/show/12995204-the-twenty-twenty-players"><i><b>The Twenty-Twenty Players</b></i></a> </span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">by Jim Lynch</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #444444; line-height: 18px;"><b>Publication Date:</b> </span><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 18px; text-align: center;"><span style="color: #444444;">September 7th 2011</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #444444; line-height: 18px;"><b>ISBN:</b> </span><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 18px; text-align: center;"><span style="color: #444444;">0615504396</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #444444; line-height: 18px;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b>Genre:</b> Political Thriller</span></span></div>
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</div>Sara Kovach / Dare to be Different - Teach!http://www.blogger.com/profile/13384883513104579815noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3542702017423114685.post-49231561459248854382012-07-24T00:00:00.000-04:002012-07-24T00:00:09.866-04:00Naked - Elephant Trunk - Gossip!!! What do you think??<br />
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<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b><i>Tell Me Something Tuesday</i></b> is a fun weekly meme hosted by Cambria @ <a href="http://cambriahebert.com/" style="color: #4d469c; text-decoration: none;">CambriaHebert.com</a>.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Each week there will be a new question to answer and share. This is a great way for bloggers to get to know one another.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">This week's questions - <i>something fun</i>: </span></div>
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: medium; line-height: 18px;"> </span><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 18px;"><span style="color: #444444; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: medium;"><b>Would you rather go about your normal day naked or fall asleep for a year?</b></span></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; line-height: 18px;"><span style="color: #444444; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: medium;"><i>My Answer</i>: I'd hate to miss out on a year, so if push came to shove and I had to pick one, I'd go around naked for a day! I could deal with it, but I am not sure how everyone else would. Considering I am a teacher, I'd hope this happened in the summer!!!! </span></span></div>
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: medium;"><span style="line-height: 18px;"><b>Would you rather be gossipped about or never talked about at all?</b></span></span></div>
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<i style="color: #444444; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large; line-height: 18px;">My Answer</i><span style="color: #444444; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: medium;"><span style="line-height: 18px;">: I would prefer to be gossiped about - at least I have done something to get noticed!! Thinking about the first question, I am sure that would give people something to gossip about for many years to come!!!</span></span></div>
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: medium;"><span style="line-height: 18px;"><b>Would you rather be born with an elephant trunk or a giraffe neck?</b></span></span></div>
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<i style="color: #444444; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large; line-height: 18px;">My Answer</i><span style="color: #444444; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: medium; line-height: 18px;">: I think it would be better with an elephant trunk. I want to be able to fit into the traditional houses and buildings, and with a long neck that could be difficult. Wow! what would a person do in a car with a giraffe neck? They'd almost have to drive a convertible wouldn't they? </span></div>
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; line-height: 18px;"><b><span style="font-size: large;">These were quite interesting questions to ponder!!! I'd love to hear everyone else's responses!!! </span></b></span></div>
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<br /></div>Sara Kovach / Dare to be Different - Teach!http://www.blogger.com/profile/13384883513104579815noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3542702017423114685.post-82550951963094999132012-07-23T16:55:00.000-04:002012-07-23T16:55:05.053-04:00Title and Cover Reveal<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Several months ago I had the opportunity to read an amazing book written by Robin Waldrop called <a href="http://sosimplesara.blogspot.com/2012/02/book-review-ties-to-blood-moon-by.html"><b><i>Ties to the Blood Moon</i></b></a>. Well today, I have the honor to be part of the title and cover reveal to sequel to that book. Its expected release date is August 10, 2012.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">by Robin Waldrop</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Genevieve Labreck is back with a score to settle. Her mom has been kidnapped by Zane, hybrid and all-around monster. Rumors fly that Gen’s mom is holed away in Prague, a city recognized by humans for its serene beauty and intense culture, but Gen and Will know something humans don’t. Prague is haunted by dark, evil forces.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Can Gen and Will save her mom, or will they be too late? </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Some will live, others will fall. At what price do you walk away from those you love?</span><br />Sara Kovach / Dare to be Different - Teach!http://www.blogger.com/profile/13384883513104579815noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3542702017423114685.post-76765904371968555172012-07-22T00:00:00.000-04:002012-07-22T00:00:05.697-04:00Fairy Metal Thunder by J.L. Bryan<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiG2sXn2gSpO_CB_YPMoJ7VicsnRRfp04ppzdniQxKtk0VH2jKrBONEJIFo0eKHfZw_tfn-y_H8F13egG2cKYnAkO_PZheI4aM73DCpCQt0lRDaFhDVIKwirUVQh7BM5XFQ5_H58_-UOKU0/s1600/fairy+metal+thunder.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiG2sXn2gSpO_CB_YPMoJ7VicsnRRfp04ppzdniQxKtk0VH2jKrBONEJIFo0eKHfZw_tfn-y_H8F13egG2cKYnAkO_PZheI4aM73DCpCQt0lRDaFhDVIKwirUVQh7BM5XFQ5_H58_-UOKU0/s320/fairy+metal+thunder.jpg" width="213" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><a href="http://www.goodreads.com/book/show/12707703-fairy-metal-thunder"><i><b>Fairy Metal Thunder</b> (Songs of Magic #1)</i></a> by J.L. Bryan</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b>Publisher:</b> CreateSpace</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b>Publication Date:</b> September 16th 2011</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b>ISBN:</b> 146635190X</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b>Genre:</b> YA fantasy</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b><span style="font-size: large;">Book Synopsis:</span></b> A rock & roll fairy tale.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Jason plays guitar in a teenage garage band called the Assorted Zebras, but they have no fans, no gigs, and they're going nowhere. Even worse, Jason has a crush on their lead singer, but she doesn't seem interested in him at all.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Then Jason steals instruments from the fairy world. Soon the band is enchanting crowds, and Jason is a step closer to the girl of his dreams, but the new gear is brimming with dangerous and destructive magic they can't control.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Their shortcut to success has cost a troupe of innocent fairies their livelihood and turned Jason and his band into enemies of the powerful Queen Mab, who sends supernatural bounty hunters to track them down, including one of the most dangerous horned creatures in Faerie...a small unicorn named Buttercake.</span></blockquote>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b><span style="font-size: large;">My Thoughts:</span></b> Fairy Metal Thunder is a very original story – unlike anything I have ever read. I read it in one sitting, and had a blast reading it. I found it to be very creative and a different spin on a Faerie tale. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Jason is a not so popular junior in high school who has started playing in a garage band as a guitarist. This band gets more time playing in the garage than any paying gigs. And to top it all off, his parents do not want him to hang out with or be part of the band. So, what does Jason really gain from being part of the band? He gets to spend time with the lead singer Erin. But, Erin has a boyfriend – how does he compete with that?</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">One evening while watching his little sister, something really strange happens. He is introduced to the Faerie realm, and in the end, he has the answer to the band’s problems. He finds some amazing instruments that turn their world around. The problem is, he did not come across these instruments honestly, and they have their own set of issues. Will it be worth it in the end?</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">This was a very quick read, and very enjoyable. It was anything but predictable. You have a high school mish-mash band trying to catch a break, a burger joint where the high school kids hang out, over-protective parents, and then throw the Faerie world into the mix. I just found it fun, fun, fun!!! </span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjF-mCvZD1gP0p0plq7uc903PhcmsHBty7t2gwmCyWlsIGbmm4LcD4al_0xaordfLbfBaM_Sy-W95vCJf9ViTJ4QrCPTTBXLv5yRXZhdpQeU8fRht4RLyfXS6qAT6Rkw89qD6d0l7DXB3Ys/s1600/J.L.+Bryan.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjF-mCvZD1gP0p0plq7uc903PhcmsHBty7t2gwmCyWlsIGbmm4LcD4al_0xaordfLbfBaM_Sy-W95vCJf9ViTJ4QrCPTTBXLv5yRXZhdpQeU8fRht4RLyfXS6qAT6Rkw89qD6d0l7DXB3Ys/s1600/J.L.+Bryan.jpg" /></a><br />
<blockquote style="background-color: #faafbe; border: 1px solid #666; padding: 10px;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><b>About the Author:</b> </span> J.L. Bryan studied English literature at the University of Georgia and at Oxford, with a focus on English Renaissance and Romantic literature. He also studied screenwriting at UCLA. He lives in Atlanta with his wife Christina, dogs Violet and Tiger Lily, and cats Shadow and Sue. <a href="http://twitter.com/jlbryanbooks">Twitter</a> <a href="http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/2917423.J_L_Bryan">Goodreads</a> <a href="http://jlbryanbooks.com/">Website</a></span></blockquote>
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<br /></div>Sara Kovach / Dare to be Different - Teach!http://www.blogger.com/profile/13384883513104579815noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3542702017423114685.post-67501009085101006682012-07-21T11:43:00.005-04:002012-07-21T11:43:56.870-04:00My Loving Vigil Keeping by Carla Kelly<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br /></span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-TXaXljeSKmwjDVY5KlIr8nUc7d0b63O-le6nyjdIfbD_g13b8bnGGuf2YTnFhG5ExEc1eC79ySV0CSWAP03d1jRaxCxUE06VFlyepHo-enJd1TOcCOKFeudfLkY7dehfjud2H1eyoSrA/s1600/My+Loving+Vigil+Keeping.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-TXaXljeSKmwjDVY5KlIr8nUc7d0b63O-le6nyjdIfbD_g13b8bnGGuf2YTnFhG5ExEc1eC79ySV0CSWAP03d1jRaxCxUE06VFlyepHo-enJd1TOcCOKFeudfLkY7dehfjud2H1eyoSrA/s320/My+Loving+Vigil+Keeping.jpg" width="194" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;"><a href="http://www.goodreads.com/book/show/13728287-my-loving-vigil-keeping"><i><b>My Loving Vigil Keeping</b></i></a> </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;">by Carla Kelly </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><b>Publisher:</b> Cedar Fort, Inc.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><b>Publication Date: </b> August 14th 2012</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><b>ISBN: </b> 1599558971</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><b>Genre:</b> Historical Fiction</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><b><span style="font-size: large;">Book Synopsis:</span></b> Della’s giving up all the comforts of bustling Salt Lake City to teach school in a rural coal mining camp. Little does she know, she may soon be giving up her heart as well. But when tragedy strikes in the Scofield Mine, Della’s life will be changed forever. Based on true events, this thrilling new romance from award-winning and bestselling author Carla Kelly is a must-read!</span></blockquote>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><b><span style="font-size: large;">My Thoughts:</span></b> Oh, my goodness! I
just read my all-time favorite book! No
kidding!! I really, really loved this
book! My Loving Vigil Keeping by Carla Kelly is of course from my favorite
genre – historical fiction & it also includes romance!! The title comes from the lyrics of a very
popular lullaby “All Through the Night” – one of my favorites as well. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Della is a young woman who had been orphaned early on- her
mother had left when she was an infant, and her father was killed in a mine
accident. She grew up in the home of
her wealthy uncle, where she was looked down upon, and pretty much took care of
herself. She got herself through school
and eventually earned a one-year teaching certificate. After a couple of years teaching in a typical
community/school, she goes out on a limb and applies for and accepts a position
in a coal-mining community called Winter Quarters, located in Scofield,
Utah. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">It’s almost as if she were returning home – there are many
similarities to her childhood community.
However, the people of Winter Quarters relate her to the wealthy family
that raised her and wonder why she is there.
She has to earn the respect of these people of Winter Quarters and find
herself.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Owen, oh how I loved Owen!!
He is such a sweet, gentle man.
The father of a beautiful little girl who also lost her mother at a
young age – her mother died giving birth.
Own is so perfect for Della. This
growing, possible romance was so great to read.
What I loved most about it was that it was not rushed. Real people with
real issues and histories to overcome.
What happens in the end, I will let you read the book to find out. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">You will not believe everything that goes on in this
story!!! Let me just tell you, there are
many, many ups and downs. Times I
laughed and times I really cried! I was
cheering Della on throughout the whole book!
I found her to be the best protagonist I have encountered in some time. She was just so real – emotions and actions
so authentic. The other characters –
especially those in Winter Quarters – were just what I imagined. They honestly made me want to check the place
out for myself. Sounds strange doesn’t
it? Why would I want to go to an old coal-town?
Well, I was born and raised in West Virginia – where coal mining is a
mainstay for many. While I did not grow
up in a family of miners, many of my friends did. The town I grew up in was not a coal camp,
but many years before I was born, that is what the town was all about! So, many of the same characteristics and lifestyles
still lingered. Therefore, I completely
related to the individuals in the novel.
<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Carla Kelly definitely knows what she is doing when writing
a historical fiction. The events in the
story are based in part on a very tragic mining event – the Scofield mining
disaster of 1900. Lots of chilling
events – many that made my heart bleed!!!
At one point I was so angry with what was going on – or really, what I
thought was going on. I was very happily
surprised with the turn of events as the story unfolded. This is most assuredly a must-read – so don’t
let it get by you!!!! </span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2FEsSrw0vNTfL0wikOHoGk-UyRMhPaia-hXNrFcr1GjOxPG76uz_iFQeg5SogVAOMv1EtlZIR8NqMfPvSUtgO2IGFyOFogbtvvjYP2Zi52lF6ZU5IGPP-fbtmcXvc06ZWBVeGq-s7X56T/s1600/Carla+Kelly.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2FEsSrw0vNTfL0wikOHoGk-UyRMhPaia-hXNrFcr1GjOxPG76uz_iFQeg5SogVAOMv1EtlZIR8NqMfPvSUtgO2IGFyOFogbtvvjYP2Zi52lF6ZU5IGPP-fbtmcXvc06ZWBVeGq-s7X56T/s1600/Carla+Kelly.jpg" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><b><span style="font-size: large;">About the Author:</span></b> Although Carla Kelly is well known among her readers as a writer of Regency romance, her main interest (and first writing success) is Western American fiction—more specifically, writing about America's Indian Wars. Although she had sold some of her work before, it was not until Carla began work in the National Park Service as a ranger/historian at Fort Laramie National Historic Site did she get serious about her writing career. (Or as she would be the first to admit, as serious as it gets.)</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br /></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Carla wrote a series of what she now refers to as the "Fort Laramie stories," which are tales of the men, women and children of the Indian Wars era in Western history. Two of her stories, A Season for Heroes and Kathleen Flaherty's Long Winter, earned her Spur Awards from the Western Writers of America. She was the second woman to earn two Spurs from WWA (which, as everyone knows, is all you need to ride a horse). Her entire Indian Wars collection was published in 2003 as Here's to the Ladies: Stories of the Frontier Army. It remains her favorite work. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br /></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">The mother of five children, Carla has always allowed her kids to earn their keep by appearing in her Regencies, most notably Marian's Christmas Wish, which is peopled by all kinds of relatives. Grown now, the Kelly kids are scattered here and there across the U.S. They continue to provide feedback, furnish fodder for stories and make frantic phone calls home during the holidays for recipes. (Carla Kelly is some cook.) </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br /></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Carla's husband, Martin, is Director of Theatre at Valley City State University, in Valley City, North Dakota. Carla is currently overworked as a staff writer at the local daily newspaper. She also writes a weekly, award-winning column, "Prairie Lite."</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br /></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Carla only started writing Regencies because of her interest in the Napoleonic Wars, which figures in many of her Regency novels and short stories. She specializes in writing about warfare at sea, and about the ordinary people of the British Isles who were, let's face it, far more numerous than lords and ladies. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br /></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Hobbies? She likes to crochet afghans, and read British crime fiction and history, principally military history. She's never happier than talking about the fur trade or Indian Wars with Park Service cronies. Her most recent gig with the National Park Service was at Fort Union Trading Post National Historic Site on the Montana/North Dakota border. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br /></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Here's another side to this somewhat prosaic woman: She recently edited the fur trade journal of Swiss artist Rudolf F. Kurz (the 1851-1852 portion), and is gratified now and then to be asked to speak on scholarly subjects. She has also worked for the State Historical Society of North Dakota as a contract researcher. This has taken her to glamorous drudgery in several national archives and military history repositories. Gray archives boxes and old documents make her salivate. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br /></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Her mantra for writing comes from the subject of her thesis, Robert Utley, that dean of Indian Wars history. He told her the secret to writing is "to put your ass in the chair and keep it there until you're done." He's right, of course. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br /></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Her three favorite fictional works have remained constant through the years, although their rankings tend to shift: War and Peace, The Lawrenceville Stories, and A Town Like Alice. Favorite historical works are One Vast Winter Count, On the Border with Mackenzie and Crossing the Line. Favorite crime fiction authors are Michael Connelly, John Harvey and Peter Robinson. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br /></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">And that's all she can think of that would interest anyone.</span></blockquote>
</div>Sara Kovach / Dare to be Different - Teach!http://www.blogger.com/profile/13384883513104579815noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3542702017423114685.post-15077008557473910972012-07-13T00:00:00.000-04:002012-07-13T00:00:05.854-04:00Permanence by Vincent Zandri<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><a href="http://www.partnersincrimetours.net/2012/05/permanence-by-vincent-zandri-on-tour.html" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtRG6WHWNBbko7MC9a0BMKOJLrDh01Ez6WEumA8_mX5cxeHPchfpZMU8f74_mQpZQOnaicrUCrUTgGGVlGUH0Uq464At06W5fOvXfRprYSlBQxLC7BMbOvqHUgZy0T0VRKsa9oGaT_628Q/s1600/VincentZandri_Permanence_TourBanner3+(1).png" /></a></span></div>
<a href="http://www.partnersincrimetours.net/2012/05/permanence-by-vincent-zandri-on-tour.html" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRZpnj3hgTmylXs-FNMnGOtIZ5vq0ByRgSbZMBa14UHne1rkYuBQ-nnPJzHpeHoTJgczQ35GG9VKsadO5jl9gnAgHRMURwcRXdPO7qPXTou4cpf9RLDLeA8VXWl_BgwJKVSJuidZTwgIKi/s320/Permanence.jpg" width="213" /></span></a><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;"><a href="http://www.goodreads.com/book/show/13638374-permanence"><b><i>Permanence</i></b></a> by Vincent Zandri</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Publisher: Bear Media</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Publication Date: May 4,2012</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">ASIN: B0080PZ6XI</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Genre: Adult Fiction / romantic thriller</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><b><i><span style="font-size: large;">Book Synopsis:</span></i></b> Based upon Vincent Zandri's most anthologized Pushcart Prize-nominated short story of the same title, Permanence, is the story of Mary Kismet, a travel agent and grieving mother of a toddler who suffered an apparent accidental drowning. Now, all alone in the world, she attempts to ease the pain of her suffering by immersing herself, body and soul, into a love affair with her psychiatrist, a man haunted by his own demons. A tragic novel of obsession, dark compulsions, and madness, Permanence transports the ill-fated lovers from New York to Venice, Italy, and back again.</span></blockquote>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><b><span style="font-size: large;">My Thoughts:</span></b> I have seen so many great reviews for Vincent Zandri, so I knew I needed to hop at the opportunity to read and review any of his books. I am so glad that I did. Permanence was fantastic. There was so much emotion enveloped within each page - so deep - I was riveted throughout!!
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br /></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Mary is our protagonist. She has tragically lost her baby in a drowning and has since gone through a very emotional break-up of her marriage, as well as losing her job. She starts seeing a psychiatrist to deal with everything, and ends up having an affair with him - only to find out that he is not free from his own issues.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br /></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">I really, really liked the intensity in which this book was told. The fact that the story is told through the eyes and mind of Mary, and that she is going through so much pain makes for such a very depressing / melancholy tone. From the way it is approached, you get right at the heart of things - if that is possible, considering we are inside the person who is suffering. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br /></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Zandri almost puts me in the mind of an Alfred Hitcock-ian type of writer. His writing is very gripping and chilling. So much suspense is built up in a short period of time. I will be seeing out his other novels, as I have not had enough of his writing!!</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaF3ijHAXPPONkz3I-ZvrHxkoo7fFAesgK3TIBCO8-6KU_cGqKIAgd6ZYDEO5VakN0xWB8vjdZeHJ5WJGWpyIpXx9Ynash4AfBvqjjgAne42W_lQLwGw6Z2kxg6YlsU8DSgW3NFwpt-3l9/s1600/vincent+Zandri.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaF3ijHAXPPONkz3I-ZvrHxkoo7fFAesgK3TIBCO8-6KU_cGqKIAgd6ZYDEO5VakN0xWB8vjdZeHJ5WJGWpyIpXx9Ynash4AfBvqjjgAne42W_lQLwGw6Z2kxg6YlsU8DSgW3NFwpt-3l9/s1600/vincent+Zandri.jpg" /></span></a><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">About the Author: OFFICIAL WEBSITE: <a href="http://www.vincentzandri.com/">http://www.vincentzandri.com/</a></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Vincent Zandri is the No. 1 International Bestselling author of THE REMAINS, THE INNOCENT, GODCHILD, MOONLIGHT FALLS, CONCRETE PEARL and MOONLIGHT RISES. He's also the author of the bestselling Digital Shorts, PATHOLOGICAL and MOONLIGHT MAFIA. A photojournalist and foreign correspondent for RT and other global news agencies, Zandri divides his time between New York and Florence, Italy. For more go to <a href="http://www.vincentzandri.com/">www.vincentzandri.com</a></span></blockquote>
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<b><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;">Click the tour banner at the top to see what other's are saying about <a href="http://www.goodreads.com/book/show/13638374-permanence">Permanence</a> by Vincent Zandri!!</span></b></div>Sara Kovach / Dare to be Different - Teach!http://www.blogger.com/profile/13384883513104579815noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3542702017423114685.post-40424488508290206772012-07-10T16:34:00.000-04:002012-07-10T16:34:20.063-04:00The Kindling by Braden Bell - Review & Character Interview<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><a href="http://www.goodreads.com/book/show/13640908-the-kindling"><b><i>The Kindling</i></b></a> by Braden Bell</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b>Publisher:</b> CedarFort Inc</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b>Publication Date:</b> July 10th 2012</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b>ISBN: </b> 9781462110278</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b>Genre:</b> Middle Grade - action/adventure</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b><i><span style="font-size: large;">Book Synopsis:</span></i></b> <span style="background-color: white;">All thirteen-year-old Conner Dell wants to do is pass pre-algebra, play lacrosse, and possibly kiss Melanie Stephens. He didn’t mean to set anyone’s gym shorts on fire or make school lunches explode. But now that the strange powers inside him have been ignited, Conner’s normal teenage life is about to go up in flames! </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">This fast-paced novel is non-stop fun for kids and parents alike. With characters you can’t help but root for, a plot that keeps you guessing, and plenty of humor, it’s a guaranteed thrill ride from cover to cover!</span></blockquote>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b><span style="font-size: large;">My Thoughts:</span></b> I have been a middle school teacher for eight years, and I have to say that this is probably one of the best books I have read that is targeted for this level. The action and intensity was amazing! I could just picture several of my students faces as I read this book. I stayed up late a few nights to read "just one more" chapter!!!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">The twists and turns in this book really through me for a loop. There were many times that I had to make myself get up and take a walk just to catch my breath - and I am being literal here!! </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Connor, Lexa, and Melanie are your typical middle school students - until one day strange things start happening around them. That sounds so funny, as it seems like strange things happening around middle school kids is about average!!! I remember my years of middle school, and now as a teacher I can just see kids reacting the way these three do. I found so much of the story to be hilarious. Middle school kids are just a different breed of kid, but I really enjoy working with them. These three seem to think that the teachers are out to get them - but don't they all!!!!!! There is a fun play of Light against Dark in this story. It all leads these three on a wonderful adventure of their life!!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I am definitely going to be sharing this book with my students and fellow teachers. I want to commend Braden Bell for writing such a great story for our middle school students. It was such a fun book to read over my summer break. I can't wait to see what he comes up with next. I sure hope it is another story that involves Connor, Lexa, and Melanie!!!</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh88_AXC-kR0CboukgfmPZnFlTFFe7IsYHVZ0iMJvnHviJtywDdfJj6mUHOAOe5NYsiJWAF__G9KmUQ7YeGIOdhgGGjJvSUYK2B-TWxTsiXSFKc1aTlXD1_9a4FRABiXaF021q5YUWLuoBX/s1600/Braden+Bell.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh88_AXC-kR0CboukgfmPZnFlTFFe7IsYHVZ0iMJvnHviJtywDdfJj6mUHOAOe5NYsiJWAF__G9KmUQ7YeGIOdhgGGjJvSUYK2B-TWxTsiXSFKc1aTlXD1_9a4FRABiXaF021q5YUWLuoBX/s1600/Braden+Bell.jpg" /></span></a><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b><i><span style="font-size: large;">About the Author: </span></i></b> Braden Bell grew up in Farmington, Utah and graduated from Davis High School. He earned bachelor’s and master’s degrees in theatre from Brigham Young University and a Ph.D. in educational theatre from New York University. He and his wife live with their five children on a quiet, wooded lot outside of Nashville, Tennessee, where he teaches theatre and music at a private middle school. An experienced performer, Braden enjoys singing, acting, reading, gardening, and long walks with the dog. You can learn more about Braden’s writing at www.bradenbell.com.
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<i><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Now for the best part:</span></i><br />
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<b><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Character Interview with Conner Dell</span></b></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Would you say your childhood was happy? Why? Why not?</span></b><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><i>I'd say pretty happy. But since I'm only 13, it wasn't that long ago.</i> </span><br />
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<b><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">What’s your greatest talent?</span></b><br />
<i><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I don't know. I like to do a lot of things. Lacrosse, football, I was in a play and liked that too. I don't know what my talents are, though. I'm pretty fast, I guess. Yeah, probably running. </span></i><br />
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<b><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">What can you offer the world?</span></b><br />
<i><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Amazing lacrosse skills? Hotness? (jk)</span></i><br />
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<b><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">What’s your strongest opinion?</span></b><br />
<i><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Probably shouldn't say, but involves Justin Bieber. </span></i><br />
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<b><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Do you say what’s on your mind?</span></b><br />
<i><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Not usually. But because of stuff that happens, my sister and her friend end up being able to read each other's minds--so they end up hearing a lot. </span></i><br />
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<b><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Are you a peacekeeper or a troublemaker?</span></b><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><i>Peacekeeper.</i> </span><br />
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<b><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Would you consider yourself intelligent?</span></b><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><i>No. Not really. I'm not stupid, but there's a lot of people way smarter than me. My sister Lexa's best friend Melanie is super-smart.</i> </span><br />
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<b><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">If you could be any other person, who would you be?</span></b><br />
<i><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Michael Phelps, LeBron James, Tim Tebow, Either of the Mannings. And, maybe that guy from One Direction that all the girls like. But don't tell anyone I said that. </span></i><br />
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<b><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Which character trait do you think is most important? Why?</span></b><br />
<i><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I think being honest with yourself and working hard and being nice to people. I don't always do those things, but I think they're important. </span></i><br />
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<b><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Would you lie if you knew you wouldn’t be caught?</span></b><br />
<i><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">No. I don't to make myself sound like I'm perfect or anything but I don't like lying. </span></i><br />
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<b><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">What’s your biggest fault and/or asset?</span></b><br />
<i><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">My biggest fault is that I'm kind of lazy in school and I joke around a lot. I guess my biggest asset is that I try to be nice to everyone.</span></i><br />
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<b><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">What secret would you feel the most vulnerable sharing with anyone?</span></b><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><i>Well, something happened when I got kidnapped by the bad guys. It's something I don't like talking about very much. </i> </span><br />
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<b><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Whom would you contact first to share good news?</span></b><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><i>Probably my sister, Lexa. We're twins so we're pretty close even though she can be annoying sometimes. </i> </span><br />
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<b><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Why should readers like you and/or care about your story?</span></b><br />
<i><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Well, I guess because it's kind of a fun story about regular kids who experience some crazy things--strange powers, creepy teachers, a battle with the forces of evil on the Small World ride at Disneyworld. You know, normal teenage stuff. </span></i><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><b>Thank you Braden <i>& Conner</i> for stopping by my blog!!! </b></span></div>Sara Kovach / Dare to be Different - Teach!http://www.blogger.com/profile/13384883513104579815noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3542702017423114685.post-61904853888607909522012-07-10T15:54:00.000-04:002012-07-10T15:54:29.377-04:00Carnival Girl by Sonja Herbert - Review and Guest Post<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.cedarfortbooks.com/blog-tour-carnival-girl/g" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"></span></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiom0i5ikKUqJ3RGv3v3WzEnTSuZkzM9JtpybYeAOboZ1wyVc8Bd0sCo_k-hAKxC4OXXmRn5vfvjLi8WQP_sUFL_CTa986fLvLtiqkvV-vhuoRF975KZ0iYpZwP-q6HJAHO1EmUVgVOQ1yJ/s1600/carnival+girl.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiom0i5ikKUqJ3RGv3v3WzEnTSuZkzM9JtpybYeAOboZ1wyVc8Bd0sCo_k-hAKxC4OXXmRn5vfvjLi8WQP_sUFL_CTa986fLvLtiqkvV-vhuoRF975KZ0iYpZwP-q6HJAHO1EmUVgVOQ1yJ/s320/carnival+girl.jpg" width="213" /></span></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><span id="goog_1421133568"></span><i><a href="http://www.goodreads.com/book/show/13422998-carnival-girl"><b>Carnival Girl</b>: Searching for God in the Aftermath of War</a></i><span id="goog_1421133569"></span> </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">by Sonja Herbert</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b>Publisher:</b> Cedar Fort, Inc.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b>Publication Date:</b> June 12th 2012</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b>ISBN:</b> 159955996X</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b>Genre: </b> Memoir</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b><i>Book Synopsis:</i></b> The only life little Sonja Francesco has ever known is traveling the carnival circuit and living with her five siblings in a tiny caravan home. The family never stays anywhere long enough for Sonja to make friends or develop roots. The only one in her family, Sonja always believed in God and wants to belong to a church. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">At fourteen, Sonja meets the Mormon missionaries and develops a strong testimony of the truth of the Gospel. But can she live the commandments while traveling with the carnival and running one of the attractions every Sunday? Will it be possible for her to leave her family’s life behind and live the life she has always dreamed of?</span></blockquote>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I am so excited to be part of the Carnival Girl blog tour. I am even more excited to have a guest post provided by the author Sonja Herbert. I'd like to take this time to warmly welcome Sonja to my blog, and I do hope that all the readers pick up her book - <i>you won't be sorry!!!</i></span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Guest Post from Author Sonja Herbert</span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"> <span style="background-color: white;">During the few times we carnival children attended school, I once received an A for a story about a Greek myth I had written, and on that day I decided to write about my mother’s life when I grew up. </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Many years later, I married an American GI and moved with him to the States. We bought a home in Manti, and one day I did a brave thing. I went to nearby Snow College in Ephraim, Utah, and asked if I could attend a class. They agreed. If I’d get a good grade, I could keep taking classes. I started with English 101. Studying came easy to me, and I enjoyed the class a lot. Our final paper was to be an autobiography. I wrote about my childhood in our traveling carnival in Germany, and was quite surprised to receive an A+.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">All through the time I raised my six children, I kept attending first Snow College, then SUU, and BYU. When I received my MA in Language Acquisition and my two youngest children were in middle school, I decided the time had come to write in earnest. I started writing about my mother’s life. As the story unfolded, I realized that it would not be complete unless I also told the story of my childhood, and so I did.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I originally called my memoir Conversations with Margot (my mother’s first name), but since the novel I wrote about her life isn’t published yet, I decided to re-name the memoir and publish it first.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">And that’s how Carnival Girl began.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><b>About the Author:</b> </span> Sonja Herbert and her five siblings were raised in a caravan, traveling the carnival circuit from town to town in post-World War II Germany.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Sonja converted to the LDS Church, later married, and immigrated to the United States, where she received a bachelor of arts degree at Southern Utah University in Cedar City, Utah, and a master of arts degree from Brigham Young University in Provo, Utah. She also raised six children, taught school and ESL, and is now a freelance writer.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Besides her childhood memoir, Sonja has also written many autobiographical stories, which have been published in the Chicken Soup for the Soul series and other anthologies. A biographical novel about her half-Jewish mother’s experiences in Nazi Germany is almost finished.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Sonja lives in Provo with her husband and cat. You can find more about her unusual life at germanwriter.com.</span></blockquote>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b><i><span style="font-size: large;">My Thoughts: </span></i></b> Carnival Girl is a beautifully written, heart-felt novel of Sonja's family life following WWII. I wan honestly not sure what to expect when I started reading the book, and I was so wonderfully surprised at the very moving and authentic writing of Sonja Herbert. This is probably one of my favorite reads this year.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">The novel starts out with Sonja's mother - Mutti - coming to visit her in Utah from Germany. The story goes back and forth between the present time and the visit to memories and recollections of their past in the carnival circuit. Sonja's family went through many ups and downs during her childhood; and during that time she developed a strong faith in God - even though it was not encouraged by her family. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I thoroughly enjoyed the vivid descriptions that Sonja was able to provide us of everything around her. From the descriptions of her 5 siblings, her parents (Mutti and Vati), the towns in which the circuit traveled, the orphanage in which they stayed for a short time, and her own internal voice. I do believe that Sonja Herbert is a true master at the art of writing. She is able to tell in such detail all her joys and sorrows - much more than I can even think of mine. The emotions she portrays are so endearing. I felt for her throughout. I also felt deeply for Mutti. The time she must have had in raising 6 children while traveling a carnival circuit, and all during the time following WWII. I could not even begin to fathom all of the hardships in which this family had to prevail. However, Sonja Herbert gives us such a wonderful glimpse at their life - I could not imagine that she could have left much out. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">The story of Sonja's journey in her faith, while so intertwined, is not the forefront of the novel, but it definitely is an important aspect of her life. I don't feel that the story or her life would have been the same without it. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I'm telling you - you really need to pick this book up and read it cover to cover. The feeling and emotions that I traveled through as I read this book made me feel as if I were on a roller-coaster, and I enjoyed every minute of it. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Thank you Sonja for sharing your life with us, and allowing me to be a part of your tour!</span>Sara Kovach / Dare to be Different - Teach!http://www.blogger.com/profile/13384883513104579815noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3542702017423114685.post-68014287224009268622012-07-06T00:00:00.000-04:002012-07-06T00:00:09.736-04:00The After Wife by Gigi Levangie Grazer<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiors6Idwnk4hnNve_rVxlr79K7pilIIA6mqsGxJomHzo0niSJ6y_JD7t6Tr9sPGDUPjJByer6b2FynBpjpw80EA-xJLlSdnJvuAKQ8QqoThA85nSgS5e-0EFH2wAmjD8CrujyHIUUcOpUa/s1600/the+after+wife.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiors6Idwnk4hnNve_rVxlr79K7pilIIA6mqsGxJomHzo0niSJ6y_JD7t6Tr9sPGDUPjJByer6b2FynBpjpw80EA-xJLlSdnJvuAKQ8QqoThA85nSgS5e-0EFH2wAmjD8CrujyHIUUcOpUa/s320/the+after+wife.jpg" width="210" /></span></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><a href="http://www.goodreads.com/book/show/13132704-the-after-wife"><b><i>The After Wife</i></b></a> by Gigi Levangie Grazer</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b>Publisher:</b> Ballantine Books</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b>Publication Date:</b> July 10th 2012</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b>ISBN:</b> 0345523997</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b>Genre:</b> Adult fiction / Chick-lit</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><i><b><span style="font-size: large;">Book Synopsis: </span></b></i> Gigi Levangie Grazer, the New York Times bestselling author of The Starter Wife, returns with a hilarious and spirited tale of love—both lost and found.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">L.A. is no place for widows. This is what forty-four-year-old Hannah Bernal quickly discovers after the tragic death of her handsome and loving husband, John. Misery and red-rimmed eyes are little tolerated in the land of the beautiful. But life stumbles on: Hannah’s sweet three-year-old daughter, Ellie, needs to be dropped off at her overpriced preschool, while Hannah herself must get back to work in order to pay the bills on “Casa Sugar,” the charming Spanish-styled bungalow they call home.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Fortunately, Hannah has her “Grief Team” for emotional support: earth mother and fanatical animal lover Chloe, who finds a potential blog post in every moment; aspiring actress Aimee, who has her cosmetic surgeon on speed dial; and Jay, Hannah’s TV producing partner, who has a penchant for Mr. Wrong. But after a series of mishaps and bizarre occurrences, one of which finds Hannah in a posh Santa Monica jail cell, her friends start to fear for her sanity. To make matters worse, John left their financial affairs in a disastrous state. And when Hannah is dramatically fired from her latest producing gig, she finds herself in danger of losing her house, her daughter, and her mind.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">One night, standing in her backyard under a majestic avocado tree, in the throes of grief, Hannah breaks down and asks, “Why?” The answer that comes back—Why not?—begins an astounding journey of discovery and transformation that leads Hannah to her own truly extraordinary life after death.</span></blockquote>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b><span style="font-size: large;">My Thoughts:</span></b> I don't read much in the genre of Chick-lit, and after reading The After Wife, I am asking myself, "<i>why not?</i>" This book book was fantastic - a wonderful summer read - just what I needed! </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">The idea of of losing a husband should be so sad and depressing, however, the author presents this story in such a hilarious way, I found myself laughing throughout the whole book! Yeah, there were times I would tear up, but not for long! The author would follow up a sad situation with such a funny comment that I couldn't help but crack a smile! Just the nature of her writing style makes me want to read more from her!! Gigi Levangie Grazer is a master at her craft - with such a way with words, that I was hooked from page one! I found myself often thinking - <i>WOW! - What a way to put that!!! </i>I don't know that I have ever read a book that I have reacted in such a manner! </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I loved all the characters! Hannah and Ellie felt like family. Hannah's friends - "The Grief Team": Jay, Chloe and Aimiee were so funny! Honestly, they made the whole story. But then again, so did the others that were presented along the way - especially the former resident of Casa Sugar! </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">This is one of those books that are so easily read in one sitting! I had to force myself to take breaks now and then, I got so wrapped up. I know this is a book that I will want to read again some day - and that is saying something, as I rarely ever do that. <i>Thank you, Gigi Levangie Grazer for my great summer escape!</i></span>Sara Kovach / Dare to be Different - Teach!http://www.blogger.com/profile/13384883513104579815noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3542702017423114685.post-41833783606867712822012-07-05T20:21:00.000-04:002012-07-05T20:21:25.645-04:00Hidden in Dreams by Davis Bunn<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlCmErgVc3YAgz18DbmBNyPUZIR3G-hgTd489rlLcd3taP49fyqASXHQuGRVercTmVPupLG68ax9HUdiHbjqBNWqn5AeuCDdrhV3Gv-zhQj9ostGVC7GTwar0tWDB6nyitJSd9Iv8nkTxZ/s1600/hidden+in+dreams.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlCmErgVc3YAgz18DbmBNyPUZIR3G-hgTd489rlLcd3taP49fyqASXHQuGRVercTmVPupLG68ax9HUdiHbjqBNWqn5AeuCDdrhV3Gv-zhQj9ostGVC7GTwar0tWDB6nyitJSd9Iv8nkTxZ/s1600/hidden+in+dreams.jpg" /></span></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><a href="http://www.goodreads.com/book/show/13260103-hidden-in-dreams"><b><i>Hidden in Dreams</i></b></a> by Davis Bunn</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><b>Publisher:</b> Howard Books</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><b>Publication Date:</b> July 3rd 2012</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><b>ISBN: </b> 1416556729</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><b>Genre:</b> FICTION/Christian/Suspense</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><b><i>Book Synopsis:</i></b> <b>In the exciting sequel to Book of Dreams from bestselling author Davis Bunn, Elena Burroughs is attacked by dreams for which she has only one explanation: they are not her own</b>.Elena Burroughs finds her life spiraling out of control. She is dismissed from her position as psychologist at the Oxford University clinic. And the man she hoped she might love is lost to the demands of new work in a distant land. Elena accepts her agent’s request for another world tour, resulting in a huge rush of new publicity and some very public conflict with established authorities. Rachel, a clinical biologist and statistician, approaches Elena for help with the disturbing dreams of one of her patients. Oddly, they mirror Rachel’s research findings about a dream pattern that has foretold every major global catastrophe stretching back to the dawn of civilization. That night Elena has precisely the same dream as Rachel’s patient, predicting a cataclysmic financial collapse far worse than what brought on the Great Depression. She searches the professional websites and discovers that her most vehement critic has a client experiencing the same repetitive dreams. Together, they form an unlikely alliance, one that threatens to pierce Elena’s emotional isolation. All the while, the clock is ticking down to devastation. It’s no longer about the dreams. It’s about survival.</span></blockquote>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><b>My Thoughts:</b> <i>AMAZING</i>! This book is soooooo good. I honestly got more than I had hoped for with this one!! When I first picked up this book for review, I did not realize that it was a second book in a series. Now, I was more than able to keep up with what was going on, but I know that I would have had an even better time reading it if I had read the first book. I also know that I will be picking up the first book,<i> <a href="http://www.goodreads.com/book/show/10809683-book-of-dreams">Book of Dreams</a></i>, as soon as I can!!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">The build up and intensity of the writing is something you rarely find! This kind of suspense is what makes reading a pleasure! Davis Bunn is a remarkable author who knows just how to grab a reader and keep them enthralled! The content of Hidden in Dreams is so complex, yet so what the reader needs in order to get the plot. I loved how Bunn intertwined the characters' Christian faith with the scientific facts, economic issues, and notion of foretelling. These elements combined to create a very compelling, almost frightening, thought-provoking tale. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">If I would not read another book this summer, I know that Hidden Dreams has provided me with far more than I ever get out of most summer reads! I am going to be telling everyone about his one!!</span><br />
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<i><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">*I received a free copy of this book from Howard Books, for my honest review. The opinions expressed here are my own.</span></i><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLtH1YVTInEKPBcHiL-KJfmGGNp9AV9k8eYm2_rErxJ1ej6USiVeFr6uN2Wl8S6dZeX5Nb2oTG6Iu6CGbA6HomIR2lMjq7uM7bOqMLua69K7KkjEbIl1p5Inf4luLwzQrB041JG4MC2DyV/s1600/davis+bunn.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLtH1YVTInEKPBcHiL-KJfmGGNp9AV9k8eYm2_rErxJ1ej6USiVeFr6uN2Wl8S6dZeX5Nb2oTG6Iu6CGbA6HomIR2lMjq7uM7bOqMLua69K7KkjEbIl1p5Inf4luLwzQrB041JG4MC2DyV/s1600/davis+bunn.jpg" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><b>About the author:</b> Davis Bunn is an internationally-acclaimed author who has sold more than six million books in sixteen languages. Honored with three Christy Awards for excellence in historical and suspense fiction, his bestsellers include; The Great Divide, Winner Take All, The Meeting Place, The Book of Hours, and The Quilt. A sought-after lecturer in the art of writing, Bunn was named Novelist in Residence at Regent's Park College, Oxford University.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Also writes under the name T. Davis Bunn and Thomas Locke.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><a href="http://twitter.com/davisbunn">Twitter</a> <a href="https://www.facebook.com/pages/Davis-Bunn-author/134762129885578">Facebook </a> <a href="http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/5367.Davis_Bunn">Goodreads</a> <a href="http://www.davisbunn.com/">Website</a> </span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"> </span></span>Sara Kovach / Dare to be Different - Teach!http://www.blogger.com/profile/13384883513104579815noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3542702017423114685.post-26652446175775205412012-07-03T11:53:00.000-04:002012-07-03T12:21:51.799-04:00<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKjD0zZtGSpSKFR5dCKjHjPcGWt446EDQ_bgJoReTKrUCDgyg6jz9XMiiy2ntcBZ67UgohqrvYsEXgUemq7U6mETqBdhFOoLOP6Ul0aJElrqyaNcK0L57grx6eG6t0eCuooEqKDT3GG3g4/s1600/tte.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="color: #4d469c; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-decoration: none;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKjD0zZtGSpSKFR5dCKjHjPcGWt446EDQ_bgJoReTKrUCDgyg6jz9XMiiy2ntcBZ67UgohqrvYsEXgUemq7U6mETqBdhFOoLOP6Ul0aJElrqyaNcK0L57grx6eG6t0eCuooEqKDT3GG3g4/s1600/tte.jpg" style="-webkit-box-shadow: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.199219) 0px 0px 0px; background-color: transparent; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; border-bottom-left-radius: 0px; border-bottom-right-radius: 0px; border-top-left-radius: 0px; border-top-right-radius: 0px; border: 1px solid transparent; box-shadow: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.199219) 0px 0px 0px; padding: 8px; position: relative;" /></span></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="color: #444444; line-height: 18px;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="background-color: white;"><a href="http://shouldbereading.wordpress.com/?s=Teaser+Tuesdays" style="color: #3778cd; text-decoration: none;"><b><i>Teaser Tuesdays</i></b></a> is a weekly bookish meme, hosted by <i>MizB @<a href="http://shouldbereading.wordpress.com/" style="color: #4d469c; text-decoration: none;">Should Be Reading</a>.</i> Anyone can play along! Just do the following:</span></span></span></span></span></span></span><br />
<ul style="background-color: white; color: #444444; line-height: 18px; list-style-image: initial; list-style-position: initial; margin: 0.5em 0px; padding: 0px 2.5em;">
<li style="border: none; margin: 0px 0px 0.25em; padding: 0.25em 0px;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Grab your current read</span></li>
<li style="border: none; margin: 0px 0px 0.25em; padding: 0.25em 0px;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Open to a random page</span></li>
<li style="border: none; margin: 0px 0px 0.25em; padding: 0.25em 0px;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Share two (2) “teaser” sentences from somewhere on that page</span></li>
<li style="border: none; margin: 0px 0px 0.25em; padding: 0.25em 0px;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"> BE CAREFUL NOT TO INCLUDE SPOILERS! (make sure that what you share doesn't give too much away! You don’t want to ruin the book for others!)</span></li>
<li style="border: none; margin: 0px 0px 0.25em; padding: 0.25em 0px;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Share the title & author, too, so that other TT participants can add the book to their TBR Lists if they like your teasers!</span></li>
</ul>
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<b><i><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">My Teaser:</span></i></b></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdFhNrh4y1X5urarcXzRaUstH401Yjv0SHaMi9Cisd7V8ol5AfMmG51V7iJPNOdWrn_yfJsT4VPrnRCtRim90bgXb-PRLABCy3tkWVxoq_knZuiC0uFATpo9aeI48SSEgKxbrLef14tC3u/s1600/the+after+wife.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdFhNrh4y1X5urarcXzRaUstH401Yjv0SHaMi9Cisd7V8ol5AfMmG51V7iJPNOdWrn_yfJsT4VPrnRCtRim90bgXb-PRLABCy3tkWVxoq_knZuiC0uFATpo9aeI48SSEgKxbrLef14tC3u/s320/the+after+wife.jpg" width="210" /></span></a></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">"I love you, Hannah Banana," he said, his eyes wide, as though making a discovery. I knew exactly what he was thinking. I thought the same thing." </span></i></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><i style="color: #444444; line-height: 18px;">-------------------<a href="http://www.goodreads.com/book/show/13132704-the-after-wife"><b>The After Wife</b></a> by </i><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 18px;"><span style="color: #444444;"><i>Gigi Levangie Grazer</i></span></span></span></div>Sara Kovach / Dare to be Different - Teach!http://www.blogger.com/profile/13384883513104579815noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3542702017423114685.post-50264352237979090702012-07-03T11:33:00.000-04:002012-07-03T11:44:42.248-04:00Can a Series Go on Too Long?<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMf3MRYAv7iXwFXqOtfMki51lsiwVE9hmqaf4UlbXL5Dx2jY9lS1wshD5rsgy-v1f0O87owDV39FRnY91H3qV7wTFAoeZ8s_gv6JgMQKyNkSOXORkpw6lvaenIncjsjwx6kq2dgNhTaD8Q/s1600/Tellmesomethingbanner1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="color: #3778cd; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-decoration: none;"><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMf3MRYAv7iXwFXqOtfMki51lsiwVE9hmqaf4UlbXL5Dx2jY9lS1wshD5rsgy-v1f0O87owDV39FRnY91H3qV7wTFAoeZ8s_gv6JgMQKyNkSOXORkpw6lvaenIncjsjwx6kq2dgNhTaD8Q/s1600/Tellmesomethingbanner1.jpg" style="-webkit-box-shadow: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.199219) 0px 0px 0px; background-color: transparent; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; border-bottom-left-radius: 0px; border-bottom-right-radius: 0px; border-top-left-radius: 0px; border-top-right-radius: 0px; border: 1px solid transparent; box-shadow: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.199219) 0px 0px 0px; padding: 8px; position: relative;" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b><i>Tell Me Something Tuesday</i></b> is a fun weekly meme hosted by Cambria @ <a href="http://cambriahebert.com/" style="color: #4d469c; text-decoration: none;">CambriaHebert.com</a>.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Each week there will be a new question to answer and share. This is a great way for bloggers to get to know one another.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">This week's question: </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><span style="color: #444444; line-height: 18px;"> </span><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 18px;"><span style="color: #444444;"><b>At what point do you think a series has gone on too long? How long should a series be?</b></span></span></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">My Answer: </span></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">What a tough question!!! And I guess to give it an honest response - it just depends on the book (story-line) and the characters. </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #444444; line-height: 18px;">There are series books that I have read and just can't wait to get to the next one - I need more!!! I mean, we all loved the<i> <a href="http://www.goodreads.com/book/show/3090465-the-twilight-saga">Twilight Saga</a></i> and <a href="http://www.goodreads.com/book/show/3.Harry_Potter_and_the_Sorcerer_s_Stone"><i>Harry Potter</i></a> - Right? Growing up I absolutely loved the <a href="http://www.goodreads.com/series/40412-little-house"><i>Little House books</i></a> and of course <a href="http://www.goodreads.com/series/49403-time"><i>A Wrinkle in Time series</i></a>. Lately I have only read the beginnings of series - those just starting out - patiently anticipating the next installment. Some of those include the </span><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 18px;"><span style="color: #444444;"><a href="http://www.goodreads.com/series/62018-lunar-chronicles"><i>Lunar Chronicles series</i></a> by Marissa Meyer (<i><a href="http://www.goodreads.com/book/show/11235712-cinder">Cinder</a>, <a href="http://www.goodreads.com/book/show/11235712-cinder">Scarlet</a></i>, <a href="http://www.goodreads.com/book/show/13206828-cress"><i>Cress</i></a>, and <a href="http://www.goodreads.com/book/show/13206900-winter"><i>Winter</i></a>) and the </span></span><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 18px;"><span style="color: #444444;"><a href="http://www.goodreads.com/series/54946-katerina-trilogy"><i>Katerina Trilogy</i></a> by </span></span><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 18px;"><span style="color: #444444;">Robin Bridges (<a href="http://www.goodreads.com/book/show/11164732-the-gathering-storm"><i>The Gathering Storm</i></a> and </span></span><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 18px;"><span style="color: #444444;"><i><a href="http://www.goodreads.com/book/show/13414829-the-unfailing-light">The Unfailing Light</a>)</i>. </span></span></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; line-height: 18px;"><span style="color: #444444; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I can't say that I have read any series that I was ready for it to end, but there are those that I have read the first book or two and never went back - not necessarily intentionally not going back, just not drawn to seek the next one out. </span></span></div>
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="line-height: 18px;">As far as how long should a series be, I think I would say 3 - 5 books. I really enjoy trilogies, and sometimes a few books past that are just needed. But again, I really think it comes back to the story-line and characters. If the author really knows how to put it together, the series might go on for quite a while. But most generally I think that the author knows when they are done with the story. </span></span></div>
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><span style="line-height: 18px;"><b>What are your thoughts on series books? </b></span></span></div>Sara Kovach / Dare to be Different - Teach!http://www.blogger.com/profile/13384883513104579815noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3542702017423114685.post-30224749868436087712012-06-29T19:54:00.000-04:002012-07-03T12:21:23.770-04:00Book Beginnings & Friday 56: The Queen's Vow<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_aT-DVOD5IBWR538XiqfUv5MFEQSuUV-vWmjmvCpNJK5fIqd3IAqog3M5KmmpgnI0l_eyjjg8_nH7U1npYHuTb8lqgSZhZn36bBhk17II4bISipk0WWofX4TpMGDZf-gklmpN7IBBPQJz/s1600/Book+Beginnings+on+Friday.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="color: #3778cd; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_aT-DVOD5IBWR538XiqfUv5MFEQSuUV-vWmjmvCpNJK5fIqd3IAqog3M5KmmpgnI0l_eyjjg8_nH7U1npYHuTb8lqgSZhZn36bBhk17II4bISipk0WWofX4TpMGDZf-gklmpN7IBBPQJz/s1600/Book+Beginnings+on+Friday.jpg" style="-webkit-box-shadow: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.199219) 0px 0px 0px; background-color: transparent; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; border-bottom-left-radius: 0px; border-bottom-right-radius: 0px; border-top-left-radius: 0px; border-top-right-radius: 0px; border: 1px solid transparent; box-shadow: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.199219) 0px 0px 0px; padding: 8px; position: relative;" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhm2tKpofAYNKhUe6tnVBYMdW-SxiV9dc9t_wC7brfE0SI-jq8tEe8ihdE9zLTRluO28dwVwL4kJOxgY9ENBGxUBE5XZfNQPYNj1ZFHBkqmHqWGeY3tawFVhIBpsSxQ6eXYqUFVUUBtXKWc/s1600/Friday+56.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="color: #4d469c; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-decoration: none;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhm2tKpofAYNKhUe6tnVBYMdW-SxiV9dc9t_wC7brfE0SI-jq8tEe8ihdE9zLTRluO28dwVwL4kJOxgY9ENBGxUBE5XZfNQPYNj1ZFHBkqmHqWGeY3tawFVhIBpsSxQ6eXYqUFVUUBtXKWc/s1600/Friday+56.jpg" style="-webkit-box-shadow: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.199219) 0px 0px 0px; background-color: transparent; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; border-bottom-left-radius: 0px; border-bottom-right-radius: 0px; border-top-left-radius: 0px; border-top-right-radius: 0px; border: 1px solid transparent; box-shadow: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.199219) 0px 0px 0px; padding: 8px; position: relative;" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b><i>Book Beginnings</i></b> on Fridays is a meme hosted by <a href="http://www.rosecityreader.com/" style="color: #4d469c; text-decoration: none;"><i>Rose City Reader</i></a>. The object is to share the first sentence (or so) of the book you are reading, along with your initial thoughts about the sentence, impressions of the book, or anything else the opener inspires.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b><i>Friday 56</i></b> is hosted by <a href="http://fredasvoice.blogspot.com/" style="color: #4d469c; text-decoration: none;"><i>Freda's Voice</i></a> - Turn to <b>page 56</b>, pick a sentence, and post it. Simple as that!!!<span style="background-color: white; color: #382110; line-height: 1.1;"> </span></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMmdCd6hassGc0RoUdg3I3jgnMmiYGvV5Y9p02CzT2XCvm7NMNl2-WN9OVJHkqVHo09mV6zouTPA7eliN8jgedXOJfSwX7UjVVsS4SS5-0bpiuidwA2eirORh2H0_fRKNekZe2cVCdaDLY/s1600/The+Queen's+Vow+A+Novel+Of+Isabella+Of+Castile.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMmdCd6hassGc0RoUdg3I3jgnMmiYGvV5Y9p02CzT2XCvm7NMNl2-WN9OVJHkqVHo09mV6zouTPA7eliN8jgedXOJfSwX7UjVVsS4SS5-0bpiuidwA2eirORh2H0_fRKNekZe2cVCdaDLY/s320/The+Queen's+Vow+A+Novel+Of+Isabella+Of+Castile.jpg" width="209" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; line-height: 19px; text-align: left;"><span style="color: #4d469c; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><i><a href="http://www.goodreads.com/book/show/13003934-the-queen-s-vow"><b>The Queen's Vow: </b>A Novel of Isabella of Castile</a></i></span></span><span style="background-color: white; color: #382110; line-height: 1.1;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"> by C. W. Gortner</span></span></div>
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; line-height: 18px;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #382110; line-height: 1.1;"><b>Publisher: </b> </span></span><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 14px; text-align: left;"><span style="color: #382110; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Random House Publishing Group</span></span></div>
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; line-height: 18px;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #382110; line-height: 1.1;"><b>Publication Date:</b> </span></span><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 14px; text-align: left;"><span style="color: #382110; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">June 12th 2012</span></span></div>
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; line-height: 18px;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #382110; line-height: 1.1;"><b>ISBN: </b> </span></span><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 14px; text-align: left;"><span style="color: #382110; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">0345523962</span></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; line-height: 14px; text-align: left;"><span style="color: #382110; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b>Genre:</b> Historical Fiction</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b><i><span style="font-size: large;">Book Synopsis:</span></i></b> <b>No one believed I was destined for greatness.</b></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">So begins Isabella’s story, in this evocative, vividly imagined novel about one of history’s most famous and controversial queens—the warrior who united a fractured country, the champion of the faith whose reign gave rise to the Inquisition, and the visionary who sent Columbus to discover a New World. Acclaimed author C. W. Gortner envisages the turbulent early years of a woman whose mythic rise to power would go on to transform a monarchy, a nation, and the world. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Young Isabella is barely a teenager when she and her brother are taken from their mother’s home to live under the watchful eye of their half-brother, King Enrique, and his sultry, conniving queen. There, Isabella is thrust into danger when she becomes an unwitting pawn in a plot to dethrone Enrique. Suspected of treason and held captive, she treads a perilous path, torn between loyalties, until at age seventeen she suddenly finds herself heiress of Castile, the largest kingdom in Spain. Plunged into a deadly conflict to secure her crown, she is determined to wed the one man she loves yet who is forbidden to her—Fernando, prince of Aragon.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">As they unite their two realms under “one crown, one country, one faith,” Isabella and Fernando face an impoverished Spain beset by enemies. With the future of her throne at stake, Isabella resists the zealous demands of the inquisitor Torquemada even as she is seduced by the dreams of an enigmatic navigator named Columbus. But when the Moors of the southern domain of Granada declare war, a violent, treacherous battle against an ancient adversary erupts, one that will test all of Isabella’s resolve, her courage, and her tenacious belief in her destiny.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">From the glorious palaces of Segovia to the battlefields of Granada and the intrigue-laden gardens of Seville, The Queen’s Vow sweeps us into the tumultuous forging of a nation and the complex, fascinating heart of the woman who overcame all odds to become Isabella of Castile.</span></blockquote>
<b><span style="font-size: large;">The Beginning:</span></b><br />
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No one believed I was destined for greatness. I came into the world in the Castilian township of Madrigal de las Altas Torres, the first child of my father, Juan II's marriage to his second wife, Isabel of Portugal, after whom I was named - an infanta, healthy and unusually quiet, whose arrival was heralded by bells and perfunctory congratulations but no fanfare.</blockquote>
<b><span style="font-size: large;">My First Impression:</span></b><br />
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I have been so excited to read this book! I absolutely love historical fiction! The cover is so gorgeous, and the beginning builds some intrigue. I don't think I will be disappointed! I have heard so many rave reviews about this book!!!</blockquote>
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Carrillo approached us and told Beatriz to step aside. He took me to the dais. The courtiers drew back, staring at me for what seemed an impossibly long moment before heads lowered in deference.</blockquote>
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</div>Sara Kovach / Dare to be Different - Teach!http://www.blogger.com/profile/13384883513104579815noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3542702017423114685.post-18843475195195755252012-06-28T08:22:00.002-04:002012-06-28T08:22:21.064-04:00Cottonwood Summer '45 - Review & Guest Post with Gary Slaughter<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><b><i><a href="http://www.goodreads.com/book/show/13562021-cottonwood-summer-45">Cottonwood Summer '45</a> </i></b>by Gary Slaughter</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b>Publisher:</b> Fletcher House</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b>Publication Date:</b> June 1st 2012</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b>ISBN: </b> 9780974420</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b>Genre: </b> Historical Fiction / mystery / adventure</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b><i>Book Synopsis:</i></b> <span style="background-color: white;">Cottonwood Summer '45, the latest novel in the Cottonwood series, continues the tradition of delivering an entertaining, richly-detailed reminiscence of home front America during the summer of 1945, as well as details of the closing events of World War II. The last days of the war have a profound effect on America, as witnessed by the citizens of Riverton, Michigan, and Nashville, Tennessee, the settings of this fast-paced story in which Jase and his best friend Danny, the heroes of the Cottonwood novels, are plagued by yet another passel of bad guys.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">When the story opens, Danny has disappeared, along with a desperate German POW bent on making his way back to the Fatherland. With Danny as his hostage, he too falls victim to the wit and valor of the villain-vanquishing team from Riverton.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">On their train trip to Nashville, our heroes are robbed but quickly identify the crook. Next, by capturing a nasty Nazi POW, they are awarded the Key to the City by Nashville’s mayor. This action opens the doors to the exciting sights and sounds of Nashville in 1945.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">You’ll weep as Danny causes the accidental death of a dear friend. And you’ll marvel at how the duo deals with their first experience with racial segregation. And you’ll laugh aloud at the antics of Danny as his clairvoyance and intelligence bewilder pompous politicians and unfortunate criminals alike.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Gary Slaughter’s previous novels – Cottonwood Spring, Cottonwood Winter: A Christmas Story, Cottonwood Fall, and Cottonwood Summer – were named finalist in six prestigious book awards for fiction writing in the categories of adult fiction and young-adult fiction. Based on early reviews, Cottonwood Summer '45 is his best work ever. Readers are in for a special treat!</span></blockquote>
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<b>My Thoughts: </b>Cottonwood Summer '45 is a really fun twist on a historical fiction story. It is by far different from others of the genre that I am used to reading. This is not a bad thing, but a fun new adventure for me. This is the first book in the series that I have read, and I am really wanting to go and read the others now. </div>
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Something I really enjoyed was the factual information that the author put in occasionally - I think this is the history buff in me!! But it goes so far beyond that informative side of historical fiction. Their is a real entertainment factor involved! The adventure that involves Danny & Jace is so much fun to follow along!! I found myself not wanting to put the book down. </div>
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The pacing was up and down, but I still had a good time reading the book. I am one to stick to something, and I am so glad that I did. I must say that I found this a wonderful way - very different for me - to tell about the WWII times. Honestly, I have not read much from this time, so it was a great first glimpse for me!!</div>
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<b>Escaped Prisoners of War<o:p></o:p></b></div>
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The Enemy Among Us<o:p></o:p></div>
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If you grew up Owosso, Michigan during World War Il, as I did, you experienced the War differently than other Americans. We were surrounded by the enemy. We saw him every day. He worked in our factories and on our farms. He rumbled by in army trucks, back and forth to his encampment just outside of town. His guards, Military Police with Tommy guns at the ready, absolutely fascinated me.<o:p></o:p></div>
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I didn’t know it then, but Owosso was among hundreds of American communities where POW camps were established. Counting some 5,000 Japanese, 50,000 Italians, and 376,000 Germans, there were well over 426,000 POWs in America during the War.<o:p></o:p></div>
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The Escape<o:p></o:p></div>
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My obsession with POWs began with The Escape.<o:p></o:p></div>
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On a bright June morning in 1944, the people of Owosso awoke to shocking news! Overnight a pair of German POWs had escaped from Camp Owosso. And, making matters worse they had been assisted in their escape by two young Owosso women who worked with the POWs at the canning factory right in my neighborhood.<o:p></o:p></div>
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My imagination went wild!<o:p></o:p></div>
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But thankfully, by the very next morning, our capable sheriff had captured all four fugitives. Well, actually, he found them fast asleep at a nearby campground where the couples had spent the night with several bottles of wine. Evidently, their intentions were not so much sinister as they were, shall we say, romantic, in nature?<o:p></o:p></div>
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The POWs were returned to their camp where they were mildly disciplined. The two young women were admonished by the sheriff and then released. Pictures in that afternoon’s <i>Owosso Argus Press</i> showed the women with broad grins on their faces as they left the sheriff’s office for home.<o:p></o:p></div>
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But agents from the FBI’s Detroit Field Office were not amused. Within hours, the FBI rearrested the women and charged them with treason! This being wartime, if convicted, Kitty Case, age 20, and Shirley Druce, age 19, faced the death penalty.<o:p></o:p></div>
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I was telling this story during a talk at a service club in Nashville recently. Just as I finished saying the words, “the death penalty,” a gentleman sneezed. Very loudly!<o:p></o:p></div>
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Everyone was startled and distracted. So I turned to the man and said, “Sir, the death penalty is nothing to sneeze at.” It brought down the house.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Now back to the story.<o:p></o:p></div>
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News of the escape and trial made headlines all over the country. Even our fighting men overseas read about the escape in <i>Stars and Stripes</i>, the Armed Forces newspaper.<o:p></o:p></div>
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One former Owosso soldier told me that he was <i>pretty busy</i> fighting the Japanese in the Pacific. But the newspaper story made him so mad that he took time out to write a letter to the editor declaring that Owosso people were patriotic Americans who would “never condone” the behavior of these two women. <o:p></o:p></div>
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By all accounts, he was right. Owosso citizens were angry and ashamed of the women and their foolhardy acts.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Ironically, while the women languished in their cells awaiting trial, their two POW pals, Eric Claasen and Gottfried Hobel, escaped for yet another overnight caper. But, early the next morning, they were arrested while making their way back to Camp Owosso. The pair, both still “growing boys” at the ripe old age of 20, told the good sheriff they were eager to get home in time for breakfast before setting off for their jobs at the canning factory. <o:p></o:p></div>
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So how did the two women fare in court?<o:p></o:p></div>
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Early in the proceedings the Federal District Judge in Bay City, Michigan, noting a lack of traitorous intent on the part of the women mercifully ordered them to be tried on a reduced charge of conspiracy.<o:p></o:p></div>
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The jury found them both guilty. And despite pleas for leniency the judge’s sentences were severe, one year and three months for Kitty Case and one year and one day for Shirley Druce.<o:p></o:p></div>
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If there were ever a single point in the history of my hometown that would inspire me to write a novel this was it. The pure dramatic tension of this situation seized my imagination. And frankly it’s never let go.<o:p></o:p></div>
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After the case was closed, citizens of Owosso, suffering from embarrassment and shame of the women’s breach of patriotism and good sense, fell silent on the subject. No one spoke of the case until <i>Cottonwood Summer</i> was published, some 60 years later. The younger or newer Owosso residents were incredulous. None of them had heard of the case or of the fate of the women. <o:p></o:p></div>
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For more information on POWs in America, I invite you to read: <o:p></o:p></div>
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<span style="font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt;"> </span></span><i>Cottonwood Summer ‘45<o:p></o:p></i></div>
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<span style="font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt;"> </span></span><i>Cottonwood Spring<o:p></o:p></i></div>
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<span style="font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt;"> </span></span><i>Cottonwood Winter: A Christmas Story<o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="text-indent: -0.25in;">
<span style="font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt;"> </span></span><i>Cottonwood Fall<o:p></o:p></i></div>
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<span style="font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt;"> </span></span><i>Cottonwood Summer</i></div>
</div>Sara Kovach / Dare to be Different - Teach!http://www.blogger.com/profile/13384883513104579815noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3542702017423114685.post-76340386151389011442012-06-27T08:12:00.003-04:002012-06-27T08:12:41.613-04:00One Book or Multiple Books at a Time?<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span><br />
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<center style="background-color: white; color: #444444; line-height: 18px;"><a href="http://www.epiloguereview.blogspot.com/" style="color: #3778cd;"><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><img border="0" src="http://i1268.photobucket.com/albums/jj566/Epiloguereview/waight-1-1.jpg" style="-webkit-box-shadow: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.199219) 0px 0px 0px; background-color: transparent; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; border-bottom-left-radius: 0px; border-bottom-right-radius: 0px; border-top-left-radius: 0px; border-top-right-radius: 0px; border: 1px solid transparent; box-shadow: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.199219) 0px 0px 0px; padding: 8px; position: relative;" /></span></a></center><center style="background-color: white; color: #444444; line-height: 18px;"><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Meme hosted by <a href="http://www.epiloguereview.blogspot.com/" style="color: #4d469c; text-decoration: none;">Lauren @ Epilogue Reviews</a></span></center><center style="background-color: white; color: #444444; line-height: 18px;"><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></center><center style="background-color: white; color: #444444; line-height: 18px;"><i><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Today's Question: </span></i></center><center style="background-color: white;"><span style="color: #444444;"><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large; line-height: 18px;"><b><i>Reading one book at a time vs. Reading multiple books at a time</i></b></span></span></center><center style="background-color: white;"><span style="color: #444444;"><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large; line-height: 18px;"><b><i><br /></i></b></span></span></center><center style="background-color: white;"><span style="color: #444444;"><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large; line-height: 18px;">My Answer:</span></span></center><center style="background-color: white;"><span style="color: #444444;"><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large; line-height: 18px;"><br /></span></span></center><center style="background-color: white; text-align: center;"><span style="color: #444444;"><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large; line-height: 18px;"><i>OK, I guess this answer is not going to providing an example of where I practice what I (preach) prefer!!! </i> </span></span></center><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEieF5O_nx_Gbua9GnH7h2tt0csfYw6HogQ-4OuFfJWg6-FguYpk46MmHapPs9A0SrIOWuM4KPO1VJJPUmybnzUL69DRJArOrQB75JhDroZHsNhKani89Dyu7S7lLCjElQ4jUdLH4qc4PhJU/s1600/smiley_face-1612.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><img border="0" height="194" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEieF5O_nx_Gbua9GnH7h2tt0csfYw6HogQ-4OuFfJWg6-FguYpk46MmHapPs9A0SrIOWuM4KPO1VJJPUmybnzUL69DRJArOrQB75JhDroZHsNhKani89Dyu7S7lLCjElQ4jUdLH4qc4PhJU/s200/smiley_face-1612.jpg" width="200" /></span></a></div>
<center style="background-color: white; text-align: left;"><span style="color: #444444;"><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large; line-height: 18px;">I do prefer to read one book at a time. It is by far more relaxing and I often feel that I get more out of the individual book. But, as I said, I do not always practice this!!! I have found myself picking up a few books at a time, and for various reasons. </span></span></center><center style="background-color: white; text-align: left;"><span style="color: #444444;"><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large; line-height: 18px;"><br /></span></span></center><center style="background-color: white; text-align: left;"><span style="color: #444444;"><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large; line-height: 18px;">Sometimes I will read a second or third book at a time because I am wanting to read it prior to watching a movie - and I don't want to put the other one aside while I do so. Or, I just might be so excited to read the other books, that I find myself flipping back and forth. And then there is always the honest reason - I just have to go back and forth so that I can deal with my attention issues! - And I must point out here, that the attention issues do not speak anything to the quality of the book - it is all me!!!</span></span></center><center style="background-color: white; text-align: left;"><span style="color: #444444;"><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large; line-height: 18px;"><br /></span></span></center><center style="background-color: white; text-align: left;"><span style="color: #444444;"><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large; line-height: 18px;">Now, since I have started this book blog and reviewing books, I have found that I am reading multiple books at a time because I want to make sure that I meet my time-lines as well as just being able to post enough reviews to keep my blog active. I do take time to read only one book sometimes, though. And, I have found that I have been doing this more when I want to relax - like right now since my summer vacation has started!!!!</span></span></center><center style="background-color: white; text-align: left;"><span style="color: #444444;"><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large; line-height: 18px;"><br /></span></span></center><center style="background-color: white; text-align: left;"><span style="color: #444444; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><span style="line-height: 18px;">I know many people say that they would get things all mixed up between multiple books. I have never had that issue. Most times, when I read multiple book, they are not of similar genres. I tend to plan it this way so that there is no chance of confusion. Sometimes, I even go so far as making sure that one is an e-book and one is a real book. You might think this is odd, but because of my visual memory, I am able to connect the content with the book type in my mind!! But that is just me!!</span></span></center><center style="background-color: white; text-align: left;"><span style="color: #444444; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><span style="line-height: 18px;"><br /></span></span></center><center style="background-color: white; text-align: center;"><span style="color: #444444;"><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large; line-height: 18px;"><b>So, how do you weigh in? Do you read only one book at a time, or do you keep more than one going? I'd love to know!!</b></span></span></center>Sara Kovach / Dare to be Different - Teach!http://www.blogger.com/profile/13384883513104579815noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3542702017423114685.post-63914878810276515682012-06-27T07:51:00.001-04:002012-06-27T07:51:43.147-04:00W.....W.....W...... Wednesday (21)<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br /></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="color: #444444; line-height: 18px;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="background-color: white;"><a href="http://shouldbereading.wordpress.com/2012/01/25/www-wednesdays-jan-25/" style="color: #4d469c; text-decoration: none;"><b><i>W....W....W.... Wednesdays</i></b></a> is a weekly meme hosted by <a href="http://shouldbereading.wordpress.com/" style="color: #4d469c; text-decoration: none;"><i>Should Be Reading</i></a>. To take part in this feature, you answer 3 questions in a blog post:</span><span style="background-color: white;"><br /></span><br style="background-color: white;" /><span style="background-color: white;">To play along, just answer the following three (3) questions…</span><span style="background-color: white;"><br /></span><br style="background-color: white;" /><span style="background-color: white;">• What are you currently reading?</span><br style="background-color: white;" /><span style="background-color: white;">• What did you recently finish reading?</span><br style="background-color: white;" /><span style="background-color: white;">• What do you think you’ll read next?</span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span><span style="color: #444444; line-height: 18px;"> </span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIIrXcHmNIUIgYqCa8rMDgJ6rWtxCk1d-oGdzyG6ba670Wa_TUyLneh2XBAOaviWVOpSwAvF38Wf-vQASozaw-FduBi5yIA6106UPu6cDL7XJ4aQn_3K5gzNneyOs364HM0Pb-QPwYxhSK/s1600/hidden+in+dreams.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIIrXcHmNIUIgYqCa8rMDgJ6rWtxCk1d-oGdzyG6ba670Wa_TUyLneh2XBAOaviWVOpSwAvF38Wf-vQASozaw-FduBi5yIA6106UPu6cDL7XJ4aQn_3K5gzNneyOs364HM0Pb-QPwYxhSK/s200/hidden+in+dreams.jpg" width="133" /></span></a></div>
<span style="color: #444444; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="line-height: 18px;"><b>What are you currently reading?</b> I am reading </span><b style="line-height: 18px;"><i><a href="http://www.goodreads.com/book/show/13260103-hidden-in-dreams">Hidden in Dreams</a></i></b><span style="line-height: 18px;"> by Davis Bunn. It is a sequel to his previous book <a href="http://www.goodreads.com/book/show/10809683-book-of-dreams"><b><i>Book of Dreams</i></b></a>. This is a book I selected to review from Howard Books - not realizing that it was a sequel. I am however finding that I am following along very well regardless. I am enjoying it. - It brings up some very thought provoking issues!!!! I might even go back and read the first book.</span></span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWda2EP3fOotAGax7qJ_YBvt9oDGbRh-_qyK60XEOj8CfeNUOsROK-DON0Qjx5DoghDuV07eAQRfLrYUcufPV7LHYV8lugfapUZj-PrCuLCaSmT9c4gNhEFQOs7Zec4hWBX59Ulgo87LO9/s1600/Diary+of+a+Player.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWda2EP3fOotAGax7qJ_YBvt9oDGbRh-_qyK60XEOj8CfeNUOsROK-DON0Qjx5DoghDuV07eAQRfLrYUcufPV7LHYV8lugfapUZj-PrCuLCaSmT9c4gNhEFQOs7Zec4hWBX59Ulgo87LO9/s200/Diary+of+a+Player.jpg" width="200" /></span></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="color: #444444;"><span style="line-height: 18px;"><b>What did you recently finish reading?</b> I just finished<b><i><a href="http://www.blogger.com/goog_1277974481"> </a></i></b></span></span><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 18px;"><span style="color: #444444;"><b><i><a href="http://www.goodreads.com/book/show/10227447-diary-of-a-player">Diary of a Player: How My Musical Heroes Made a Guitar Man Out of Me</a></i></b> </span></span><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 18px;"><span style="color: #444444;">by Brad Paisley & David Wild. I absolutely love Brad Paisley - as a fellow West Virginian and as a country music artist!! I must say that I totally respect him more after reading this book!!!</span></span></span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhH52pyI63o5sJuJ4wv-oMg0330RaRtCfhTnguHRaNQhKLI9vCE6-HLh-u2xSbe4R9HEiQh3x2LahZeeygPNY5Yv-WC8EzubMt7MKVMKrx878OMfMsw1MBXn01t0c23LY7ssB2jxzePSoxd/s1600/The+Queen's+Vow+A+Novel+Of+Isabella+Of+Castile.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhH52pyI63o5sJuJ4wv-oMg0330RaRtCfhTnguHRaNQhKLI9vCE6-HLh-u2xSbe4R9HEiQh3x2LahZeeygPNY5Yv-WC8EzubMt7MKVMKrx878OMfMsw1MBXn01t0c23LY7ssB2jxzePSoxd/s200/The+Queen's+Vow+A+Novel+Of+Isabella+Of+Castile.jpg" width="130" /></span></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 18px;"><span style="color: #444444;"><b>What do you think you'll read next?</b> I am going to read<b><i> </i></b></span></span><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 18px;"><span style="color: #444444;"><b><i><a href="http://www.goodreads.com/book/show/12796941-the-queen-s-vow">The Queen's Vow: A Novel Of Isabella Of Castile</a></i></b> </span></span><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 18px;"><span style="color: #444444;">by C.W. Gortner. I have been so looking forward to this one. It is an historical fiction that I have seen so many excellent reviews, and the author has wonderful reviews as well. </span></span></span>Sara Kovach / Dare to be Different - Teach!http://www.blogger.com/profile/13384883513104579815noreply@blogger.com2