Book Review - "Raising an Army of Helaman's Warriors" by Mark Ogletree, Ph.D. and Kevin Hinckley, M.Ed.

The subtitle of this book is "A Guide for Parents to Prepare the Greatest Generation of Missionaries", but this is an understatement, as the skills you will help your son or daughter develop will serve them throughout their lives in higher education, career, marriage, and as parents.

This is the first time I have been reading a book for review and stopped to not only order a copy for myself, but for other people. I can't recommend this volume highly enough for all parents -- including those who have children with special needs. I had been planning to create a curriculum for youth with an autism spectrum disorder to prepare for missionary service, but that is no longer needed as this guide is completely appropriate for that purpose.

If your child is young, you may think this is something to tuck into the back of your mind for the future, but you can begin these lessons when your child is 8 years old, or even younger for some children. You will learn many concepts that will help you as a parent, including:

• Your rule in Gospel teaching.
• The difference between discipline and punishment.
• How to teach obedience, and why it's important.
• The power that can be found in the scriptures and how your youngster can learn to use it.
• Teaching how to pray and ask for guidance.
• How to become truly converted.
• The recognition of inspiration.
• Methods to help your child learn the value and principles of work. 
• Physical preparation for mission experiences. 
• Ways to become and remain emotionally healthy and resilient. 
• Appropriate communication.
• How to turn your home into a missionary preparation center. 

Each chapter contains an explanation of the importance of the subject,  valuable background information to prepare you for instruction, teaching methods, ways to apply what you've learned, and supplemental materials to help you and your child. 

This valuable guide does more than help you understand what skills and abilities your child will need. It is a practical teaching help that will benefit parents as well as Church teachers and leaders. The abilities described by the authors are especially important for those with special needs, and the activities are completely appropriate. 

Time to stop reading this blog and order the book!

Book Review - "A Different Kind of Cheerleader" by Lira Brannon

From Amazon:
All I ever wanted was to be a cheerleader. That's it. Just lead my squad running and screaming across the gym floor while the students rocked the bleachers. But that will never happen. Dreams like that stopped after my accident. I'm broken. Like a violin with a missing string-the music inside of me is all garbled up. And despite what my perpetually cheerful physical therapist says-there is no happy ending for someone like me. My BFF and Seb, the one armed assistant coach, keep preaching to me about their God and His love until I just want to scream. But there's something about the two of them-something peaceful and happy that I sometimes think I want. Something that starts me believing that maybe the most impossible dreams can come true.

• Paperback: 234 pages
• Publisher: White Bird Publications (May 27, 2014)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 1937690911
• ISBN-13: 978-1937690915

This Christian novel is written from the perspective of Tansy, a teen girl who has been confined to a wheelchair following a skateboard accident several years ago. The reader learns to understand Tansy's frustration as she tries to participate in activities with her friends, and struggles with her lifelong dream of becoming a cheerleader. Those who struggle with a disability will be encouraged to find their path through this book, and others will be better able to understand the challenges faced by those who are differently-abled. Great read for teens and adults. 

Book Review: "How to Embrace Your Inner Hotness: An Inside-Out Approach to a Lasting Makeover" by Leta Greene

From Amazon:
Your outward appearance might make the first impression, but sixty seconds later, when that first impression is ancient history, it's your inner beauty that needs to shine! If you want to be truly hot, this book will show you exactly how, including the following: 

• Why you need to stop buying in to a cultural concept of beauty 
• How to transform the way you see and present yourself, inside and out 
• How to discover the secrets to the right look for you 
• Why different isn't bad—it's your key to hotness 
• How to choose happiness now, no matter your current situation 
• How to leave pain in the past 
• How to figure out what you really want 
• How to stop letting other people define your worth, potential, and purpose 
• How to find the right man and have the hottest marriage imaginable! 
• What it means to be "enough" (and it's not what you think!) 

We all experience loss and pain when our lives don't end up looking like we dreamed they would. Professional beauty expert and speaker Leta Greene looked that in the face and made a choice. Happiness and permanent hotness followed. Yours can too, right now, as Leta shares how to create the life and look you want in 15 simple steps—a transformation that will make you irresistibly, and lastingly, hot!

My Review: 

This book came along at a perfect time for me, as I have battled with negative inner voices most of my life. When I found out that the author, Leta Greene, had presented a TED talk, I was even more intrigued (you can find a video of her talk here). 

I don't read "beauty" books, but I am a fan of self-improvement. This is not a volume that tells you what colors will look best on you or how to arrange your hair. It's about learning to appreciate yourself, stop comparing your weaknesses to the strengths of others, erase negativity from your brain, and live your best life.  

Greene uses challenging events from her life, from accidents that scarred her face and knocked out teeth to abuse and multiple miscarriages, to teach skills we can use to face and recover from personal tragedy. This is the first book of this type I've seen that manages to incorporate a strong personal morality that encourages righteous living rather than an extreme focus on the self. While directed primarily at women, I feel everyone can work through the exercises in this book and find themselves in a much better place. 

Purchase your copy from Amazon or Barnes and Noble, a bargain at only $4.99!


About the Author:
Learn about Leta Greene on her web page or Facebook page.  

Book Review and Support for Autism! (Carol of the Tales and Other Nightly Noels: An Advent Anthology, Volume 2)

Carol of the Tales and Other Nightly Noels: An Advent Anthology, Volume 2

Christmas carols capture the spirit of Christmas, and Carol of the Tales and Other Nightly Noels brings beloved carols to life like never before. Throw your cares away with the tales from sweet silver bells. Find out how Santa Claus dabbles in time travel, and feel the redemption of a dying wife's parting Christmas gift. Experience all this and more in these heartfelt, entertaining tales donated by a team of authors from across the country, working together for a good cause. The proceeds from the sale of this book will be donated toward Autism research and advocacy.

Anthology authors include: Shirley Bahlmann, C. David Belt, Rebecca Carlson, Loretta Carter, Madonna D. Christensen, Danyelle Ferguson, C. Michelle Jefferies, Theric Jepson, Ryan Larsen, Angie Lofthouse, Betsy Love, J. Lloyd Morgan, Janet Olsen, Teresa G. Osgood, Brian Ricks, Jennifer Ricks, Peg Russell, and Michael Young.

Carol of the Tales is the 2nd book in the Advent Anthology series. Both anthologies are available in paperback and Amazon Kindle formats from Amazon.com. 

Purchase “Sing We Now of Christmas”: http://amzn.com/1479266248

Purchase: “Carol of the Tales”:  http://amzn.com/1484145526

Lynn's Review:
During the busy holiday time, it's easy to forget the reasons behind the celebration. Taking a little time to refresh your spirit can reduce stress while enriching your life. You can give yourself a much-needed break while supporting Autism resources by purchasing this wonderful book and spending time reading. You may also discover a new author you love, and want to look for their other works!

To kick off the release of the second anthology, a Christmas concert will be held at American Fork Junior High on December 7^th, 2013. The concert will feature the Saltaires Barbershop Chorus. All proceeds from this concert will be donated to charity as well. Purchase: Tickets for the Concert: https://tickettool.net/en/index/eventpopup/b54dab4bd0a13fa6975068f4784dfaa5

Blog Tour Giveaway!

Use the rafflecopter below to enter to win wonderful prizes, such as tickets to the concert and copies of the anthology. 

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Other Blogs on the Tour:

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Www.causeisaidso.me

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lynndparsons.blogspot.com

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Book Review - "Love, Hugs and Hope" by Christy Monson

"Love, Hugs, and Hope"

We live in a world where tragedy touches us all. It is especially difficult to explain the unexplainable to children when you don't know what to do.

This book is the perfect tool to prompt conversations and provide coping strategies with the youngsters you love. An excellent tool for parents, teachers, and therapists. I regret that many little ones have to deal the harsh realities of 2013, but am glad that this resource is now available. I intend to get copies to keep for emergencies, and I recommend you do, too.

Check out Christy's giveaway -- click on the links above for a chance at a $25 Amazon giftcard.

From the publisher:

Written after the tragic Newtown, Connecticut, shooting, this book is an invaluable tool to help parents and children work through feelings after a tragedy. Our kids deal, not only with national tragedies, but every day ones like death of a grandparent, loss of a puppy, or divorce. This book guides readers through emotions of fear, sadness and anger, then offers constructive ideas for managing these feelings and seeking comfort. The message of the book is that love chases away hate and light banishes darkness. Lori Nawyn's engaging illustrations help the reader know that hope is only a hug away.



The book is available at: Amazon

FCC Disclosure: I was given a free digital copy in exchange for an honest review.

Don't Let your Child Read this without You (Book Review - "Penumbras" by Braden Bell)

Penumbras is the second in the Middle Grade Magic series by Braden Bell. The previous title, The Kindling, introduced us to three middle school friends, Connor, Lexa, and Melanie, whose beginning magical powers attracted the attention of dark forces placing them in danger. 

The story continues as the classmates prepare for summer vacation. Here's a sample:

          Connor Dell didn't mean to blow up the school bus. 

          Or the bathrooms. 

          In fact, he only wanted to go to sleep and possibly dream about Melanie Stephens. 

          But explosions had a funny way of happening when Connor and his friends were 

          around. 

          It all started on the annual seventh grade field trip to the Sea Lab at Dauphin Island, 

          Alabama. Fifty-four thirteen-year-olds on a five-day field trip. What could go wrong?

          Especially when three of them happened to be Magi. 

Sounds like a novel that would capture the attention and imagination of a junior high student with plenty of action to keep them enthralled, doesn't it. Why would I recommend that you read this with your youngster? 

1. Bell's work has many layers. Below the entertaining story line is an undercurrent of complex emotions and relationships, giving adults who have forgotten those difficult years great insight into the tween and early teen years. 
2. The situations include friendship becoming romance, which open the door for important discussions regarding dating behavior. 
3. Some of the characters have worries they don't express to others, allowing you a chance to pry some concerns loose from your own kid. 
4. Reading together is a great bonding activity, and this title can be enjoyed by adolescents and adults.
5. You don't have to worry about the content, language, or situations.
6. The danger posed by the Darkhands gives you an opportunity to review important safety precautions with your family.
7. A discussion of good and bad secrets will occur when you read the major plot twist in this volume. 
8. Connor's memories of the Shadowbox allow the readers to discover that few people are entirely good or completely evil, a difficult lesson even for adults. 
9. The emphasis is on communication and relying on trusted adults, which can help reinforce faith in parents. 
10. It's a really, really fun book to read. 

What are you waiting for? Order an autographed copy from Dr. Bell here! Also available at Amazon and Barnes and Noble. 

FTC disclosure: I was given a PDF version in exchange for an honest review. 

Wellness Wednesday - Book Review - "The Secrets of As A Man Thinketh"

"As a Man Thinketh" is a profound that has changed the lives of millions. Adam Mortimer has recorded his thoughts and insights gained over years of using this book with his students.

You will learn ways to improve your life by controlling your thoughts, change your negative belief cycles, improve your circumstances, and alter your subconscious perceptions. You will discover how to improve your sense of harmony and that a change of perspective can change a perceived failure into a success. Mortimer explains that success requires certain steps, and that if we are not willing to follow the "recipe", we won't achieve our goals.

This inspiring volume expands on James Allen's text to provide clarity and additional inspiration. He encourages you to invest 30 days to improve your life and your future. His program will help you improve your financial circumstances, health, spirituality, and relationships.

I highly recommend this volume. It is worth not only reading, but rereading and working through the principles.

You can learn more about this book here and purchase a copy here.

Wellness Wednesday Book Review Tide Ever Rising by Mandi Tucker Slack

FCC Disclaimer: I was given a free electronic copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.

An important part of wellness is taking time for yourself. One of the best ways to do this and escape your problems is to take time out with a good book.

Mandi Tucker Slack has provided us with just that--a compelling story line that pulls you in and keeps you until you reluctantly turn the last page.

About the book:

Kadence Reynold’s favorite pastime is exploring old ghost towns, but when she and her sister, Maysha, stumble across an old journal and cheap pendant hidden in the depths of a crumbling foundation near Eureka, Utah, their world is suddenly turned upside down. Immediately, strange dreams and premonitions begin to haunt “Kadie” as she learns more about the author of the journal, Charlotte Clark. Kadie sets out on a journey to learn more about Charlotte and her family, and she and Maysha travel to Bremerton, Washington, where they discover Charlotte's still living twin sister, Adelaide and her family.  

Kadie and Maysha, upon arriving in Washington, are immediately immersed in Adelaide and Charlotte’s story. Kadie soon learns that Charlotte disappeared the night of a tragic fire that took the lives of Adelaide’s entire family. With the help of Logan Mathews, Adelaide’s handsome grandson, and Charlotte’s ever disconcerting presence, Kadie delves into the past. Hoping to solve the mystery of Charlotte’s disappearance, Kadie immediately discovers the secrets contained in the journal will toss her and Adelaide’s family into a world filled with mystery, past regrets, and dark unknowns.

I really enjoyed this ghost story with a romantic twist. I had trouble putting this book down. I wanted to learn more about Adelaide's past and Kadie's future. An exciting adventure, interesting character study, and fun read.

This book is appropriate for all ages from middle school up.

Get your own copy of "Tide Ever Rising" here.



Learn more about the author here.

Special Education Saturday - "NCAA Eligibility: Resource Guide for Student-Athletes with Educational-Impacting Disabilities" (Book Review)

Publication Date:

Jan 06 2013

ISBN/EAN13:

1463762321 / 9781463762322

Page Count:

62

Binding Type:

US Trade Paper

Trim Size:

6" x 9"

Language:

English

Color:

Black and White

Related Categories:

Education / Special Education / Learning Disabled

CreateSpace

This guide is not only useful for student-athletes with disabilities, but all college-bound students who may require accommodations in college. This resource contains the following information:

• Definitions of disability terms
• A description of legal protections available for all students with disabilities
• Eligibility rules for NCAA freshman athletes
• Accommodations available for NCAA eligibility
• A data sheet to compute GPA
• Accommodations available for standardized testing
• Keys for success
• How to request accommodations in college
• A list of disability resources
• How to prepare for a disability service interview
• Frequently asked questions

The author, Jeffrey Berk, also included information about how to request accommodations at the college level. Requirements for these considerations both in the classroom and on tests such as the ACT and SAT are also detailed.  

One of the most useful parts of this book is the Keys to Success. The author noted that students must understand their disability and accept responsibility for their own success. The importance of preparatory curriculum, time management skills, and computer abilities was also explained in detail. The author also suggested that supplemental postsecondary education programs be considered. How to research different educational options was covered, as was campus involvement.

Jeffrey Berk has also included several resources. These include a list of disability support offices for a variety of universities across the country. An interview form and answers to questions are also included.

This useful resource will help any student with a disability when planning for higher education, but is vital for those who plan to participate in athletics. 

Book Review: "The Living Room" by Bill Rolfe

Have you ever been in a place that was so beautiful it touched your soul? A view so amazing it made you feel whole inside?

The author of "The Living Room", Bill Rolfe, had a dream about such a place. In the tradition of Stephanie Meyers, he turned his dream into a compelling novel.

Daniel is living a life many would envy. He has money and power, and has recently inherited a beautiful home in England. He senses the hollowness of his existence as he makes the decision to inspect his new property before putting it on the market.

Daniel's journey not only changes his life, but that of a beautiful nurse he encounters in his new town. It also has a significant impact on many of her patients, critically ill children. Readers will learn more about themselves, including the value of life and sacrifice, as they experience this novel, a beautiful read.

You can get more information about this project at www.TheLivingRoomStory.com. 

Learn more about Bill's story here. 

You can purchase your won copy of "The Living Room" here and see the book trailer here. 

Book Review - "The Lost Stones" by Paul Rimmasch

Ammon has been researching alternative forms of energy, which attracts some unwanted attention. He has also long been fascinated by the stones created by the brother of Jared and made to glow by the finger of God. He joins forces with John and his beautiful daughter to follow the archaeological clues to find the stones. Will they find the stones? Will they survive natural and man made challenges?

I enjoyed the interaction among the characters in this book. The complex plot keeps you reading, but is not too convoluted. If you're looking for an action-packed adventure fit for the whole family to read, give "The Lost Stones" by Paul Rimmasch a try.

Available for purchase at Amazon and Barnes and Noble.

Watch the book trailer at http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fTqTSdiXpZU

Learn more about this title at http://www.loststonesbook.com/ and

http://www.facebook.com/theloststones

• Paperback: 192 pages
• Publisher: Bonneville Books (November 8, 2011)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 1599558874
• ISBN-13: 978-1599558875

Book Review - "Middle School Magic: The Kindling" by Braden Bell

"Connor Dell didn't mean to set anyone's gym shorts on fire." This is the first line of "Middle School Magic: The Kindling" by Braden Bell. This book should come with a warning label. Seriously. Once you pick it up, you won't get anything else done. You'll be pulled into a new world that is a perfect blend of fantasy and reality. You won't want to stop reading until the final page. 

Braden's completely believable middle school students suddenly find that they have unusual powers. The friends are then drawn into a world of danger and magic. They learn about their new abilities as they must simultaneously deal with a stalker no one else can see and warriors from an unseen realm.

 This fast-moving tale is interspersed with humor middle-schoolers will appreciate, but adults will find this an enjoyable read, also. The images of a memorable scene that takes place in the "It's a Small World" ride will long be with me...

It's hard to find good books that will interest children in middle school, especially boys. Discovering one that is a "clean read" without objectionable material is even more difficult. This is a title that kids of both genders will want to enjoy without worrying their parents.

You can take a look at trailers for this book here, read sample chapters here and order your autographed copy here.

You can read more about this title at www.bradenbell.com, and check out the author's blog (his Middle School Mondays have great advise for parenting) at http://www.bradenbell.com/bradens-blog.html. 

Book Review and Free Book: "Million Dollar Diva" by Tristi Pinkston, Brett Kitchen, & Ethan Kap

Tristi Pinkston was slowly being enveloped by debt. She and her husband looked for ways to save money, but continued to struggle. Enter Brett Kitchen & Ethan Kap, coauthors of Smart Money Millionaire. Tristi had enough faith in them to not only open up her accounts for scrutiny, but to share her challenges to give hope to others. She is practicing the principles found in Million Dollar Diva. 

Tristi now has a clear financial vision of where she wants to be. She and her husband are rapidly lowering their debt while improving their financial status. Now it's our turn. Get your free author copy of Million Dollar Diva  at http://www.milliondollardiva.com.

You'll learn to begin with a firm vision. Then it's time to take ownership of the problem and follow the process outlined by Kitchen & Kap.

These professional financial planners give advice based on years of success with many clients. They ask you to begin by creating a strong vision of your future.

After you have your vision firmly in place, you'll learn sound monetary practices, how to make unemotional spending decisions, track your spending, get out of debt faster, avoid an entitlement mentality, and amplify your income.

Need more information? You can get information about Tristi's progress, freebies, and other products and services at http://www.milliondollardiva.com.

Stop stalling and take the first step towards a solid financial future. Get your free author copy now--offer ends May 15. After that date, you can purchase your own copy at http://www.amazon.com/Million-Dollar-Diva-Money-Millionaire/dp/097943405X/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1335017881&sr=8-1 

Book Review: "Dispirited" by Luisa M. Perkins

Cathy thinks her life is going downhill. Her father passed away and her mother has remarried. This blended family, including Cathy's younger sisters and a new creepy stepbrother, has moved from the excitement of new York City to the suburbs. To top it all off, scary things begin to happen to this high school senior.

Blake's mother has also died. He misses her so much he discovered how to make his spirit leave his body to search for his mom. Until someone--or something--takes possession of Blake's body and won't let him back in.   The invader also begins to abuse Blake's body.The disembodied spirit tries everything to get back to his body, but is unsuccessful for seven years.

Blake is invisible to most people, but Cathy can see him. She soon discovers she has special gifts. Will they be enough to reunite her new friend with his body? Can she even save herself and her new boyfriend, Rich?

Perkins' novel makes the improbable believable. You will be drawn into the story by the entrancing characters, and be unable to put it down until the stunning conclusion.

You can purchase "Dispirited" at Amazon and Barnes and Noble.

At Season's End by Eric Hendershot

"At Season's End" by Eric Hendershot is a sweet story set during the depression. It follows the life of Sally as she travels across the country with her mother, father, and younger brother, Tim.

The live of itinerant farm workers is a continual struggle. Forced off their farm. little family relies on faith, hard work, and the kindness of strangers to survive. They are not above inventing a history to improve their lot, but overall live by a strong moral code. At one point, they try to settle down to a more typical lifestyle. After going back on the road, a double tragedy hits the family and the siblings must find a way to survive.

I was fascinated to learn why some people choose to continue live in this way. They form strong friendships and a supportive community that bands together in challenging times. These people are free with their money and property to the point of sacrificing necessities. I was impressed by their charity and love.

You will enjoy this book through both laughter and tears and look forward to a sequel.

Purchase your copy at Amazon, Barnes and Noble,

Learn more about the author at http://atseasonsend.wordpress.com/

Book Review - RetirementQuest: Make Better Decisions by John Hauserman

Oh, the excitement of that first job. I worked in a Mexican restaurant. I was thrilled to enter through the "Employees Only" door. My mother made a copy of my first paycheck and framed it. What I didn't realize was that I also needed to begin planning for my retirement.

People who wait until middle age or later to plan for the future may not be able to retire. They face the unappealing prospect of dying at their desks rather than doing what they wish in that beach house. Why do we put it off?

I believe the first reason is fear. We fear thinking about our "golden years". We worry our future will be stolen by greedy corporate executives, thanks to those at Enron. Worst of all, we have no clue where to start.

John Hauserman, the chief executive officer of Retirement Journey, LLC, has written a book to guide you through this daunting process. I was interested to read this book because I don’t have a lot of experience with financial planning and am considering my retirement options.

Retirement has changed in recent years. I remember my grandfather retiring at age 65, getting his pension, and spending his time travelling, working in his garden, and building furniture. He had no financial worries. My mother took a lump sum payment when she retired, and how scrimps and lives very simply. I participate in the Texas Teacher Retirement System. Because my pension is in the hands of politicians, I'm assuming it will be bankrupt before I retire.

Few people can now spend their adult life working for a single company and counting on a consistent pension. Many have no clue where to begin retirement planning, and their inattention to this important life event may mean that they have to work for the rest of their lives.

Hauserman teaches you how to set goals, and compute how much money you will need to save. He also details what information you need to gather before beginning to plan. Readers will discover how much investment risk they can tolerate and how to select a professional they can trust.

This book is written in layman’s terms and is easy to read and understand. If you were as confused as I was about financial planning, I can highly recommend this guide. I was especially interested in the sections on risk assessment and was very unsure about how to choose a professional to help with my retirement planning.

Take some time to plan for your future so that beach vacation you're planning doesn't change into a job as a greeter in Walmart.

Need more information to plan your retirement? Visit John Hauserman's website here.

Get your own copy of Retirement Quest here and start working on your financial future!

Book Review - "Cold River" by Liz Adair

From Amazon.com:

Mandy Steenburg thinks her doctorate in education has prepared her to run any school district - until she tangles with the moonshine-making, coon-dog-owning denizens of a tiny district in Pacific Northwest timber country. She's determined to make a difference, but the local populace still looks to the former superintendent for leadership. When Mandy lands in the middle of an old feud and someone keeps trying to kill her, instinct tells her to run. And though she has to literally swim through perilous waters, she finds a reason to stay and chance the odds.

Show More

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My Review:
Why did Mandy leave her last job and take one where her welcome is far less than enthusiastic? Who is trying to drive her away, and why? Will she follow her heart to a new romance, or return to the one she left behind? These questions will keep you devouring the pages until the dramatic conclusion.

I really enjoyed this book. Liz has created a town with interesting characters. I wasn't able to see any of the plot twists coming. If you enjoy romances, books filled with action, or an engrossing novel, this is the book for you.

It also makes a great Christmas gift!

Purchase your copy of Cold River here.

Learn more about Liz Adair on her blog.

FCC Disclaimer: I received a free digital copy of this book, but this did not influence the content of my review.

Book Review - "Bloodborne" by Gregg Luke

From Amazon.com:
One ordinary afternoon, research specialist Dr. Erin Cross steps into a local deli to get some lunch and nearly takes a bullet instead. Thanks to timely intervention from a former Marine, she walks away from the seemingly freak incident. But when she returns to find her lab under security lockdown and her apartment ransacked, she realizes the attack was anything but random. Erin can’t make sense of the threat, given her low profile after a disastrous H1N1 vaccine trial. She doesn’t know that her former colleague has used the virus to develop a potent bioweapon or that her recent research holds a key to his success. And she doesn’t know that his collaborators want her dead before she blows the whistle.

Fleeing for safety with her research in hand, Erin unravels the threats with help from the timely Marine, former Special Ops agent Sean Flannery. But the closer they come to finding answers, the more questionable Sean’s behavior becomes. His erratic moods and suspicious communications are more fitting for an enemy than a friend. And as the crisis comes to a head, Erin can’t be sure who harbors more secrets—the bioterrorists pursuing her or the one man who can give her protection.

My Review:
I really enjoyed Gregg's last book, "Blink of an Eye", so I eagerly awaited the launch of "Bloodborne".  Clear your schedule, because you won't be able to put "Bloodborne" down. You will be yanked into the story from the first page. Gregg's vivid characters and intriguing plot twists will have you hooked from the beginning. His medical knowledge and writing style is reminiscent of Robin Cook in his prime. If you're looking for an escape to an exotic location in a book filled with head-spinning plot twists, go buy this one!

Other Opinions:
Bloodborne is classic Gregg Luke--sinister motives, gripping suspense, and intricate detail. His pacing will leave you breathless. --Josi Kilpack, author of the Sadie Hoffmiller Mystery series.
Bloodborne is a spellbinding, action-packed story with dynamic characters and an intriguing plot. Block out some time to read, because you won't be able to put this one down. --Erin Klinger, author of Between the Lines.

Check out the book trailer: www.youtube.com/watch?v=1BpIw5Q2-Ts
Get your copy of "Bloodborne" here

Author's site: http://www.greggluke.com/

FTC Disclaimer: I was given a free review copy, but this did not influence my review.

Book Review - Latter Rain

Paperback: 305 pages
Publisher: Castle Mountain Press (November 19, 2010)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 098271081X
ISBN-13: 978-0982710814
Product Dimensions: 7.8 x 5.1 x 1 inches

From Amazon:
The Latter Rain explores the symbols and types of the Book of Isaiah, creating a framework that can then be applied to other books of the Bible, helping the reader perceive meaning that was once obscured in symbolism. One such symbolic type is that of rain. While this type is not exclusive to Isaiah, it is used by Isaiah to symbolize the communication from God to man. In Deuteronomy, the Lord himself explains this concept: Deuteronomy 32:1-3 1 GIVE ear, O ye heavens, and I will speak; and hear, O earth, the words of my mouth. 2 My doctrine shall drop as the rain, my speech shall distil as the dew, as the small rain upon the tender herb, and as the showers upon the grass: 3 Because I will publish the name of the LORD: ascribe ye greatness unto our God. The term, Latter Rain, therefore means a period of time in the last days when the Lord will again pour out his spirit upon his children on the earth, thus leading them to truth and understanding. This book clarifies these and other concepts pertaining to the last days. Through a methodical analysis of various books contained in the Bible, the reader is able to view the attributes and characteristics of God's communications to his prophets and disciples in ancient times, and to use these observations to predict what one should expect to occur in the period of the Latter Rain. Castle Mountain Press is proud to introduce the book The Latter Rain. Although many books have been written about the prophecies of Isaiah, this book not only correctly identifies the symbols and types found in Isaiah, but uses this new information to make sense of the rest of the Bible. The reader of The Latter Rain, whether familiar with the scriptures or not, comes away from the experience with a completely new perspective on what the ancient prophets are saying about our day and age.

My review:
James Conis has spent years of study to link prophecies of Isaiah to other portions of the Bible. The sheer volume of information in this book reveals how dedicated Conis has been to this task.

Conis has used information from Isaiah in an attempt to explain both ancient and modern events. He likens lack of spiritual information to a physical drought, and Latter Rain represents a return to revelation.

Conis relies on his own conclusions rather than using the explanations of others. While I did not agree with many of his scriptural connections, this book is an interesting read.

You can purchase Latter Rain here.

Two Book Reviews - "Key of Kilenya" and "Huber Hill and the Dead Man's Treasure"

Andrea Pearson, author of "Key of Kilenya"

About Andrea:
Andrea is an avid reader and outdoor-er, who loves traveling. She and her husband (AKA Mr. Darcy) were married only a few months ago, and have settled near a river that someday will probably overflow and flood their house.

It took her nearly a lifetime to do so (nine years), but she graduated with a bachelor of science degree in Communications Disorders from Brigham Young University. She plans to open a flying bicycle shop eventually, but for the time being, she is happy teaching orchestra to elementary students.

From the publisher:
Jacob Clark's life is thrown into chaos when he discovers a path to a different world near his small-town home. The creatures of this new world are strange and have odd customs, and he is surprised to learn that everyone knows everything about him. Even the evil, immortal Lorkon, who stole the Key of Kilenya. They are jealous of Jacob and wish to control powers he doesn't know he possesses.

My review:          

Andrea Pearson has created a fascinating new world filled with magical creatures and a challenging landscape. Jacob Clark accidentally enters this strange world to find he is not only expected, but has an important quest. This action-filled and imaginative book will hold you in the grips of a dangerous new world until you discover if Jacob can recover the Key of Kilenya.

The author's blog can be found at http://www.kilenyaseries.blogspot.com.
To purchase a hard copy of "Key of Kilenya," go to http://www.kilenyaseries.com/p/purchase-information.html.

"Huber Hill and the Dead Man's Treasure"by B.K. Bostick

From the publisher:
When his grandfather dies, Huber Hill is devastated—until he opens Grandpa Nick's mysterious box. An old gold coin and directions to a hidden Spanish treasure send him and his friends off on an mind-blowing adventure, but he's not the only one on the hunt. Filled with dangerous animals and cryptic puzzles, this book will have you on the edge of your seat until the last page.

My review:
Huber has a difficult life. A bully picks on him constantly, he can’t attract the attention of the girl he likes, his twin sister makes him look like a weakling, and his parents fight constantly.

Just when he thought things couldn’t get any worse, Huber’s beloved grandfather dies. Huber inherits a map, a journal, and a mysterious gold coin. Huber is soon off on the adventure of a lifetime as he tries to beat a mysterious Spaniard to the treasure.

B.K. Bostick's novel will be a fun and interesting read for both boys and girls. The nonstop action coupled with the realities of life in middle school will keep them reading and wanting more. This book would also be a high-interest book for high school students with disabilities.

The amazing web site created for this novel can be found at http://deadmanstreasure.com/#/home. It has information for educators, games, media, and more.

Purchase this book at http://www.amazon.com/Huber-Hill-Dead-Mans-Treasure/dp/1599559110 or http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/huber-hill-and-the-dead-mans-treasure-b-k-bostick/1100820924