Rainy Day Ramblings

The Summer I Became A Nerd by Leah Rae Miller (Sponsored)

Happy Monday! If you are having a blah day and you need something fun to pick you up, I have a sweet summery read for you.  It seems this is the summer for books with nerds and geeks as romantic interests and also the summer of books with legs on the covers.  Last Monday, I reviewed How My Summer Went Up in Flames, and today I have for you The Summer I Became a Nerd.  Both are easy, breezy reads with protagonists who undergo a big metamorphisis.  The love interests are sweet and unexpectedly adorkable. I recommend checking out both books as I had a great time with each of them.  Here is my review:

The Summer I Became a Nerd by Leah Rae Miller

On the outside, seventeen-year-old Madelyne Summers looks like your typical blond cheerleader—perky, popular, and dating the star quarterback. But inside, Maddie spends more time agonizing over what will happen in the next issue of her favorite comic book than planning pep rallies with her squad. That she’s a nerd hiding in a popular girl's body isn’t just unknown, it's anti-known. And she needs to keep it that way. Summer is the only time Maddie lets her real self out to play, but when she slips up and the adorkable guy behind the local comic shop’s counter uncovers her secret, she’s busted. Before she can shake a pom-pom, Maddie’s whisked into Logan’s world of comic conventions, live-action role-playing, and first-person-shooter video games. And she loves it. But the more she denies who she really is, the deeper her lies become…and the more she risks losing Logan forever. 
ebook, 276 pages 
Published May 7th 2013 by Entangled Teen
Source: Publisher in exchange for an unbiased review 

 

 

 

Four stars: An identity struggle that ends in a sweet romance.

Maddie is a popular cheerleader dating the handsome quarterback.  On the outside she is what you expect a popular cheerleader to be, but no one knows the true Maddie.  Maddie has a secret......she is a nerd at heart, and she absolutely loves comic books.  After a horrible experience in junior high, Maddie decided to hide her obsession with comics from everyone but her brother.  Now she is headed into the summer before her senior year and she is expecting lots of afternoons with her friends, but what she doesn't expect is to lose her heart to the geeky boy, whom she has been crushing on, and who just so happens to run the local comic book store.  What follows is a summer that involves finding one's true self and a sweet romance.  Can Maddie finally be comfortable in her own skin?

What I Liked:

• The Summer I Became a Nerd is one of those perfect sweet summer romances that will totally capture your heart.  This book has an amazing, slow blooming, believable, butterflies in your tummy romances that will leave you feeling giddy.  It is without love triangles and angst, it is just pure and fun.  If you are looking for a feel good romance for a sunny afternoon read, look no further get this one! I finished it with a big smile on my face.
•  I totally appreciated that this book covers a young teenage girl's struggle to fit in.  While Maddie may be popular and pretty, she is not comfortable in her own skin.  She feels like she can't reveal to anyone that she loves comics because she expects to be ridiculed and labeled a nerd.  Instead she puts on a facade and pretends to like what her friends like, and she follows the herd.  Maddie dates the quarterback for appearance purposes, even thought he doesn't make her heart flutter and she considers him to be like a handbag, something to hang on her arm to make her look good.  As they story progresses, Maddie begins to lose her heart to Logan, the adorable geeky comic book lover.  They speak the same language when it comes to comic books.  Maddie has harbored a secret crush on Logan for some time, but never acted on it for fear of ruining her reputation.  Once she experiences those amazing butterfly feelings of love, she is in deep trouble.  Maddie begins lying to everyone in order to protect her identity, and you know that leads to trouble.  In the end, she finally comes to terms with who she is and isn't afraid to show her true colors.  I loved following her journey as it is a reminder that we are all different and no one can easily fit into stereotypes and labels.  The bottom line is that you must be true to yourself and comfortable in your own skin in order to be happy.  I loved the positive messages in this one for teenagers!
•  Let's talk about Logan the love interest.  Logan is shy, sweet, kind and big hearted.  He is comfortable with his identity and doesn't mind being labeled a geek.  He wears comic book shirts, participates in Role Playing Games and he enjoys life on his terms.  I loved how he looks out of his sister and how close he is with his family.  He is just adorable. I am sure he will win over many hearts. 
•  Dan, Logan's best friend, ended up surprising me.  For the first part of the book, I got the impression that he was going to be the nerdy sidekick to Logan.  I was wrong!  As the story moves along and Maddie continues to inadvertently hurt Logan, Dan steps in and confronts Maddie.  He is all about ensuring Logan's best interests.  I couldn't help but fall in love a little with Dan as he swooped in and came to the rescue numerous times.  I would totally love to see a spin off book featuring Dan as the main character.
•  I loved that this was a sweet satisfying stand alone.  Everything ties off with a lovely happily ever after vibe and you leave with a big goofy grin.  I would certainly love to see the author perhaps write a companion novel so we can catch up with Logan, Maddie and Dan down the road.
•  This is a clean read perfect for teens of all ages.  There is nothing inappropriate for younger readers so pick this up and hand it to your teenage reader with confidence. 

And The Not So Much:

•  While I appreciated Maddie's journey and struggle, I did at times have difficulty with her.  She is very self centered and seldom takes notice of the people around her.  She is all about appearances, and I hated that she put on a big phony public face.  More than anything, I hated her constant lying.  Even though she frustrated me at times, I got her and I totally understood why she acted the way she did.  Being a teenager is tough no matter who you are, and I know we can all relate to wanting to fit in and be accepted.  In the end, I absolutely loved her growth and transformation.  I am glad that she finally decided to show her true face and not be afraid to be herself. 
•  Even though I loved the romance, I felt like there was a bit too much repetition at times.  There are numerous occasions when the pair is together having a great time, and then Maddie would back off, run away and leave Logan feeling hurt.  The first time was fine, but when it continues, I felt like I was revisiting the same thing again and again.  Thankfully, it has a purpose and in the end it works.
•  There is this whole thing about role playing games.  I know nothing about RPG and I got a little confused as to exactly what was going on in the showdown between Maddie and Kelsey.  There is a bunch of RPG speak and honestly it went over my head.  
•  I wished that Maddie's brother had a bigger role in the book.  He is her role model and he is the one who got her hooked on comics.  The brother is out of town attending college so he is out of the picture.  He makes a very brief appearance, but I found that I wanted more.  I would love to see more of the brother-sister relationship.
•  The book is predictable.  There are no big surprises and you can pretty much see how the story is going to go from the beginning, but who cares it is a fun ride. 

The Summer I Became a Nerd is one of those books that is perfect for when you need a pick me up read.  Even though it is a bit predictable it has at its heart a sweet romance that blossoms when a girl learns to show her true colors.  This book will leave you smiling and make a mark on your heart.  Definitely pick this one up!

Favorite Quotations:

"Did you know smiling suppresses the gag reflex?  I do, so I smile and wave back."

"You can't spend your life being afraid of what other people think."

"Do I "really like" him?  Is that the right way to put it?  I've only known him for the summer technically, but "really like" doesn't seem to encompass it.  If you "really like" someone, do they insist on invading your every thoughts?  Does just saying their name make goose bumps rise on your arms?  Do you contemplate how many freckles your children will have?"

 

I received a copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.  All opinions are my own and I was not compensated for this review.

 

Sketchy (Bea Catcher Chronicles #1) by Olivia Samms & Towering by Alex Finn (Sponsored)

A popular cheerleader—raped, beaten, and left for dead. An edgy outsider with a gift. Can they team up to catch a killer? Bea’s life has been a mess ever since she got kicked out of private school and sent to rehab. Now clean, Bea is starting over at Packard High School, in a city shaken from two assaults on young women. The latest victim, Willa Pressman—the one who survived—doesn’t remember a thing. But Bea has a disturbing new “skill”: she can see—and then draw—images from other people’s minds. And when she looks at Willa, Bea is shocked by what she sketches. Bea might be the only one who knows Willa’s secrets—and who can take down the killer before he strikes again. 
Hardcover, 238 pages 
Published April 30th 2013 by Amazon Childrens Publishing
Source: Publisher/Netgalley in exchange for an unbiased review

 

 

Three and a half stars: An engaging dark YA thriller.

Exasperated, Bea waits for the urine stick to turn color and reveal to her weary mother that she is indeed still clean and sober after three months.  Bea just recently returned home after a stint in rehab.  She is picking up the pieces and reentering her life.  However, she is not attending her former all girls school, instead she is enrolled at the local public high school.  Bea knows that her bushy chia type hair and reputation will leave her on the outside of the popular social circles.  No matter, she meets up again with Chris, a former acquaintance, and the two strike up a solid friendship.  Just when Bea thinks her life will be normal, her strange artistic talent rears its head.  Bea can inexplicably draw what is in other people's thoughts.  Once she captures and draws a face from Willa's mind, Bea knows she must do something.  Willa, the popular Quenn Bee, was recently raped and left for dead.  Bea is convinced that her drawing is the face of a killer, but who is going to believe her especially since she is a former drug user?

What I Liked:

• I was pleased to find that I enjoyed Bea's character.  Granted, Bea is no angel.  She is a recovering substance abuser and she is unrefined, snarky and rebellious.  Even though she is rough around the edges and lacks polish, she is a lot of fun.  I liked her funny commentary and I appreciated her courage and strength as she fought to overcome her addiction.  Add her in her unique artistic talent and you have an entertaining and memorable character.  Not to mention her chia pet hair and penchant for thrift shop clothes.  Bea is one of those characters that will stick with me as I very much enjoyed her voice. 
• I appreciated that the author is not afraid to tackle some very tough subject matter.  There is no glossing over the dark stuff in this one.  There are plenty of references to drug use, and it is very revealing as far as the depths that one can sink and the tough road one must follow on the way back.  I appreciated going on the journey with Bea and seeing how she had to fight every single day to stay clean and sober.  This is a good reminder of the dangers of drugs. I loved the way the author pointed out in the book that drug users can and do come from all types of life.  Don't get caught up in the stereotypes for drug uses because a substance abuser can be anyone, even the popular, smart kids. While the drug use and recovery are an important part of the story, they are not the main focus, so don't shy away from this thinking is a book about the dangers of drugs, it is much more than that. 
• This book has an intriguing little mystery.  Bea inadvertently finds herself caught up in a murder mystery once she accesses and draws the face of the rapist from Willa's thoughts.  Girls are going missing and being murdered and Bea is the only one with a solid lead.  I loved the suspense and the thrill as the mystery takes control of the plot.  
• I loved that this book is a quick entertaining read with a focus on something other than your typical high school romance and such.  This is an entertaining thriller with a heroine fighting to overcome substance abuse who has a special talent that helps track down a killer.  If you are looking for a romance be warned there is not a romance in this one.  I personally liked that this book did not have any romance.  It is nice every once in awhile to not have a romance.  
• I liked that there are a few drawings sprinkled throughout the book. 
• I was pleased that this book came to a nice conclusion and that was not a cliffhanger!

And The Not So Much;

• While I loved Chris, I was a bit disappointed that his character was stereotypical.  Chris fast becomes Bea's best friend.  He is gay and he fits into that mold we see far too often in the YA genre.  He is a girl's best friend, he is a bit flamboyant, he likes fashion and shopping, he is in the closet when it comes to his family, and he is everything you have come to know in the typical YA gay boy.  How I wanted his character to move beyond that stereotype and be something different.  I am tired of the gay boys being the girl's best friend and fellow shopping partner.    
• There was a niggling thread that was left undone.  There is a brief flashback in the book when Bea remembers a time when her father, a former artist, wanted to draw picture of Bea and her mother when Bea was little. For whatever reason, he crumpled the paper and refused to draw after that point.  When Bea questions him, he doesn't answer and I was left wondering why did he stop drawing?  Does he also possess some kind of talent like Bea?
• I completely enjoyed the fast and thrilling plot, but the ending with Bea and the showdown with the killer felt a little off.  It was perhaps just me, but I thought the book kind of fell of course and I didn't like how that final confrontation played out.  Basically, I was not expecting Bea to end up in that position. I thought perhaps she would utilize her new connection at the police department or Chris, especially when she grapples for the hand print drawing.  
• Even though this book is labeled YA it is for mature readers only.  There are several serious subjects in this one such as drug use, sex, rape and murder.  It is definitely a darker read and is best suited for the older teens.

Sketchy was a quick and entertaining YA thriller.  It does have some dark content so it is best suited for older readers.  It features a likable main character who is overcoming substance abuse.  I enjoyed the story and the characters and I would definitely like to read the next installment. 

Favorite Quotations:

"Rule number three: stay away from the dudes in the shop class.  They all have woodies!"

"Name-calling is worse than a broken bone----it can't be set in a cast and healed in six weeks.  I would know.  It hurts!"

 

I received a copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.  All opinions are my own and I was not compensated for this review.

Towering by Alex Finn

At first, I merely saw his face, his hands on the window ledge. Then, his whole body as he swung himself through the window. Only I could not see what he swung on. Until, one day, I told my dream self to look down. And it was then that I saw. He had climbed on a rope. I knew without asking that the rope had been one of my own tying. Rachel is trapped in a tower, held hostage by a woman she’s always called Mama. Her golden hair is growing rapidly, and to pass the time, she watches the snow fall and sings songs from her childhood, hoping someone, anyone, will hear her.  Wyatt needs time to reflect or, better yet, forget about what happened to his best friend, Tyler. That’s why he’s been shipped off to the Adirondacks in the dead of winter to live with the oldest lady in town. Either that, or no one he knows ever wants to see him again. Dani disappeared seventeen years ago without a trace, but she left behind a journal that’s never been read, not even by her overbearing mother…until now.  A #1 New York Times bestselling author, Alex Flinn knows her fairy tales, and Towering is her most mind-bending interpretation yet. Dark and mysterious, this reimagining of Rapunzel will have readers on the edge of their seats wondering where Alex will take them next! 
Hardcover, 293 pages 
Published May 14th 2013 by HarperTeen 
Source: Publisher/ Edelweiss in exchange for an unbiased review 

 

 

Two stars: A book with insta love and unanswered questions

Rachel longs to see the outside world.  She has spent years trapped in her tower, her only contact with the outside world is Mama.  Her friends are the beloved characters from her well worn books.  Things begin to change when Wyatt comes to town.  Wyatt is recovering from a traumatic experience.  His mother sends him to live with her high school friend in the middle of nowhere.  Wyatt is soon caught up in a seventeen year old mystery when he uncovers the journal of Dani, the daughter of his hostess Mrs. Greenwood.  As Wyatt begins to unravel the mystery, he discovers Rachel trapped in her tower.  Together, they work to break a curse that has held the small town hostage. Can Rachel and Wyatt overcome the odds and save the town?

What I Liked:

• I enjoyed the gothic feel to this Rapunzel retelling.  It is set in the middle of nowhere in a remote town where it seems time has frozen.  The town is without many of the modern conveniences, cell phone reception is sketchy and it is isolated.  In the beginning, I was even a bit confused as to the era.  This small town has plenty of secrets and there are strange disappearances on a regular basis, but everyone attributes them to runaways.  I liked that Ms. Finn manages to capture that creepy atmospheric setting that I totally was not expecting.
• I loved how Ms. Finn wove in many of the classics and there were numerous references to famous books throughout.  I enjoyed how Rachel's perspective of life was based on her experience with reading classical literature.  It certainly gave her an erroneous perception of modern day life, which at times is funny. 
• I appreciated the creative way the author managed to respin Rapunzel.  She moves the tale to modern times and adds in a gothic feel, magic and a dangerous drug ring that holds the small town hostage.  I was pleased to see some of her clever ideas as she refashioned this old tale.
• I enjoyed the humor in this one.  There are some funny lines about being in the middle of nowhere and being attacked by serial killers or zombies.  I also liked the Star Trek stuff.  I appreciated the humor and a bit of snark, as it was something I wasn't expecting in a romantic fairy tale. 
• This is a stand alone novel and I liked that everything wrapped up neatly at the end and that the book did not have a cliffhanger or love triangle.

And The Not So Much:

• Towering, unfortunately was not a good fit for me.  This ended up being a case of cover lust gone bad.  I have wanted to try this author for awhile as I have heard some good things about her other fairy tale retellings.  Even though she does a good job reinventing this old tale, I just felt like it missed the mark.  First, the whole romance felt cheesy and it was totally a case of insta love.  Now, I can understand that Rachel would immediately be attracted to a handsome boy since she has had no other human contact, but the romance moves immediately into the couple exchanging "I love you" on the second meeting.  The author attempts to explain the insta love away by including the idea of destiny and fate as Rachel has been dreaming of Wyatt. However, I did not like the quick pace, nor did I like the use of darling and other old fashioned terms of endearment.  Again, I understand that it fits Rachel's character, but to me it just felt ridiculous. I was expecting to be swept away with a lovely romance  and it does not happen. 
• The plot starts with an interesting mystery and it even incorporates a ghost.  I enjoyed the inclusion of the journal the provided some insight into the events that lead up to Rachel being in the tower, but everything doesn't come together cohesively.  The plot begins to veer off course as it explores a strange drug ring and mysterious disappearances.  Things start moving very rapidly at the end and it goes so fast that I felt like it glossed over important details. I wasn't completely satisfied with some of the explanations, either. 
• At the end, I had so many questions.  What happened to Rachel's father?  Who was Wyatt's father?  Where did Rachel's magical powers come from?  Why could her hair suddenly start growing out of control?  Why were her tears able to heal? How did the brush mysteriously end up in the hardware store?  Why was Dani killed?  There were far too many loose ends for my taste.
• The book is told through dual point of view narrators: Rachel and Wyatt. I enjoyed the two voice, but I did not like the way the chapters were done.  Some chapters were only a page or two and then a new chapter would start, and often it was still in the same voice, why end a chapter and start another?  The switching and the short chapters made the book fell choppy.

Towering was a book that had great promise, but fell flat on execution.  The romance is rushed and forced.  I wanted an epic fairy tale romance and instead I got cheesy insta love.  While there are some interesting new ideas in this revision of Rapunzel, it wasn't enough to save the book for me.  I seriously need to learn a lesson about cover lusting.  Towering is yet another example of a book with a beautiful cover on a less than stellar book.  

Favorite Quotations:

"The notebook smelled the way old books do, like dust and unrealized potential."

"Then we watched Star Trek, which apparently is on all the time somewhere, if you have five thousand cable channels."

"I relaxed a little more.  Zombies didn't usually offer directions back to the Northway.  They just ate your brains."

"But she was so beautiful, and somehow, her very strangeness was what I loved about her, that she made me feel less weird.  I wondered, maybe, if everyone felt weird sometimes, if they just didn't tell anyone."

 

I received a copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for and honest review.  All opinions are my own and I was not compensated for this review.

Level 2(Memory Chronicles #1) by Lenore Appelhans: Guest Post, Review and Giveaway (Sponsored)

Happy Thursday! I have a fantastic guest post and giveaway for you all today. The wonderfully talented Lenore Appelhans is stopping by with her debut novel: Level 2. This is a fantastically complex book about the after life with a Matrix type feel to it.  If you are looking for something different definitely try this one! Before we go further, though, I want to introduce to Lenore:

Thanks to her father's job in the US military, Lenore Appelhans became addicted to travel early. To date, she's visited nearly 60 countries and has stepped on every contintent except Antartica. She currently lives in Frankfurt, Germany with her husband and three fancy Birman cats. Her novel, The Memory of After (published as Level 2 in hardcover by Simon & Schuster BFYR) is "immensely layered" (VOYA) and "a griping debut" (NYT Bestselling Author Megan McCafferty). The second book in The Memory Chronicles, Chasing Before, is due summer 2014. She has been blogging about books at Presenting Lenore since 2008. Also find Lenore on her website, Twitter, Facebook, Goodreads and Pinterest. 

 

 Lenore's book Level 2 will be getting a new cover and a new title when the paperback version releases this fall.  I was interested to know why the book was getting a new title so I asked Lenore to explain it to all of us.  Here is Lenore:

My debut novel, LEVEL 2, came out in January. In September it will come out in paperback with a new cover and new title: THE MEMORY OF AFTER.  

This change garners two main questions: 1) Why? And 2) Which title/cover do I think fits the book best?  

The answer to 1) 

Feedback from the S&S sales team showed that many potential readers thought LEVEL 2 was a sequel because of the “2”.  

The answer to 2)

This is more complicated, because I think each title/cover brings out different aspects of the story.

Let’s look at LEVEL 2 first. 

LEVEL 2 was always the working title for the novel. LEVEL 2 (a level of the afterlife) is the level that comes after LEVEL 1 (what we are living now).  I love this title because it promises action and mystery, but I can also understand the confusion.

The art director, Lizzy Bromley, constructed a plastic tube as a stand-in for a memory chamber.  The model didn’t have much space to move around, but she struck an active pose – giving Felicia a very determined look that fits well with her character. The dots on the cover symbolize the rows of hives that exist in Level 2.

Now, let’s take a look at THE MEMORY OF AFTER.

Once the team at S&S decided to try a new title, they had a brainstorming session and I had a brainstorming session and then we discussed ideas in a telephone conference (me, my agent and the head of the imprint, Justin).  When I mentioned the title THE MEMORY OF AFTER as a possibility, Justin got excited.  That was a favorite of the S&S team that they came up as well. Great minds, right?

I think the new title speaks more to the complexity of the narrative (there are three separate timelines) and promises more psychological depth. 

The cover image was taken from the original photo shoot, but Lizzy gave this cover incarnation more elegance, especially with that gorgeous type treatment.  I like that both covers are predominately white (very fitting for the stark white world of Level 2), and though I do miss the pop of orange/pink color on the LEVEL 2 cover, I love how Lizzy worked with the black/white dichotomy when creating a series concept for THE MEMORY OF AFTER and the sequel CHASING BEFORE.

So my verdict? I love both! 

Take a look at the Making of the LEVEL 2 cover:

 

Very interesting stuff Lenore! Thanks so much for stopping by and sharing with us all the details that go into making a book cover. Which cover do you prefer? Lenore is offering a chance to win a signed copy of Level 2  and bookmark to one lucky U.S. resident.  To enter fill out the Rafflecopter after reading the Contest Policies.  Good Luck! 

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Here is my review:

Level 2(Memory Chronicles #1) by Lenore Appelhans

In this gripping exploration of a futuristic afterlife, a teen discovers that death is just the beginning. Since her untimely death the day before her eighteenth birthday, Felicia Ward has been trapped in Level 2, a stark white afterlife located between our world and the next. Along with her fellow drones, Felicia passes the endless hours reliving memories of her time on Earth and mourning what she’s lost-family, friends, and Neil, the boy she loved. Then a girl in a neighboring chamber is found dead, and nobody but Felicia recalls that she existed in the first place. When Julian-a dangerously charming guy Felicia knew in life-comes to offer Felicia a way out, Felicia learns the truth: If she joins the rebellion to overthrow the Morati, the angel guardians of Level 2, she can be with Neil again. Suspended between Heaven and Earth, Felicia finds herself at the center of an age-old struggle between good and evil. As memories from her life come back to haunt her, and as the Morati hunt her down, Felicia will discover it’s not just her own redemption at stake… but the salvation of all mankind. 
Hardcover, 281 pages 
Published January 15th 2013 by Simon & Schuster Books for Young Readers
Source: Publisher in exchange for an unbiased review 

 

 

Felicia enters her chamber and selects a favorite memory to soothe her jangled nerves.  Felicia is dead.  She now exists in a strange afterlife where everyone spends the majority of their time in small hive like structures with individual chambers where one can access all the memories from their life.  One can also view memories of other people's life.  Existence in this strange place is much like living in a fog of forgetfulness.  Everything changes when there is a rumbling and shaking of the hive.  Then a set of hidden doors swish open, and Felicia comes face to face with Julian, a boy who caused her a great deal of trouble on Earth.  Felicia is soon forced to make a choice.  Does she trust Julian and go with him or does she stay in her chamber?

What I Liked:

• I was completely astounded by the complexity of this book.  The story line takes place in the afterlife with a bit of sci-fi thrown in for flavor.  I very much enjoyed the intricate details of Ms. Appelhans vision of the afterlife. Basically, you have individuals existing in Level 2 which is a holding stage for souls that aren't ready to move onto the next level.  While in Level 2, people relive their memories with the hope that they will glean the knowledge needed from their former life that will enable them to move forward.  Unfortunately, something has gone awry with the system, and these days people are using memories more like a drug than a learning process.  Add in a rebellion, angels, battles and some religious ideas and you have the recipe for an engaging and entertaining read.
• I enjoyed the twists and big reveals especially toward the end.  It was certainly exciting to learn the truth behind the rebellion and so forth.  I was shocked a time or two, and I definitely wasn't able to foresee some of the developments.  If you like books that have a detailed plot with surprises you will enjoy this one.
• I absolutely loved the originality of Level 2.  It takes a lot these days to impress me with something new, and I was pleased to find this was unlike anything I have read before.  There are plenty of interesting and exciting ideas presented in this one regarding the afterlife.  If you are tired of the same old same old in the YA genre be sure to check out this book for a breath of fresh air. 
• I liked the way the memories were incorporated into the storyline to fill the reader in on the past events and to help establish the characters.  I thought it was very clever they way that they fit into the story, and I especially found the labels, tags, and user ratings interesting, they reminded me a bit of book ratings.  All in all, the whole memory concept was a fun and original idea.
• I was pleased that this book refrained from love triangles and a cliffhanger ending.  Even though at times, I was a bit concerned that this would move into that dreaded three sided love territory it does not happen.  Pick this one up if you are needing a read without triangles and cliffhangers.

And The Not So Much:

• While I for the most part thoroughly enjoyed the utilization of memory flashbacks, I found that sometimes they were a bit confusing because there was no order or time frame for the reader to establish a timeline.  I would have very much liked the memories to have a timestamp along with the user rating and tags.  Having a date would help me to understand the events better and make the flow smoother. 
• I was left a bit confused over Julian and his actions.  I just felt like I was missing something on his character.  He comes into the story and he appears to be a dangerous bad boy, but as time goes on his secrets are revealed and he becomes even more of an enigma.  By the end, I was stunned and I wanted to know more.  I have a feeling that his story will be told in further in the next book.
• This book has religious undertones to it.  Some of them I appreciated, but I found that I grew a little weary of all the stuff involving Felicia and the church activities.   
• Neil came across as being a bit too perfect and wonderful for me.  He is the love interest, but I didn't feel drawn to his character.  I was more interested in Julian to be honest.
• I was frustrated with the parents.  There seemed to be a great deal of resentment and bad feelings between Felicia and her mother, and I was expecting to learn more on this angle, but there is not a lot of information on the mother at all.  I felt like this was an important piece to the story and it lacked development.

Level 2 was an entertaining and complex story that focuses on the afterlife with a sci-fi flair.  For those who like action, originality and something beyond the ordinary in your reading, definitely check out this book.  It is one of the most innovative books that I have read to date for 2013, and I can honestly say that I will be checking out the next book in The Memory Chronicles.  

Favorite Quotations:

"It's one of those gorgeous spring evenings I can never get enough of, when the trees burst with fresh, impossibly green leaves and the air is fragrant with promise."

"I heard somewhere once that people never truly die while people on Earth still remember them.  As long as a person is in someone else's thoughts, a part of them lives on."

"When she gave me the bracelet, she said the dolphins reminded her of us, two faithful friends since childhood adrift in an ocean of constant change."

"I know it might not seem like it now, but there's more to life than parties and studying.  The point is to keep trying new things, meeting new people, visiting new places.  Once you settle into a rut, no matter how fun that rut may seem, you stagnate.  You might as well be dead."

"Can you really trust your memories?"

"It's like church is some foreign country and I missed out on the cultural briefing.  I started going because Grammy needed me to drive.  I started to enjoy going because Neil was there.  But that doesn't mean I've bought into the idea that God cares if I stay pure or not."

"Every relationship has its hurdles....and the big test is if you still want to be with someone despite those hurdles."

 

I received a copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.  All opinions are my own and I was not compensated.  

 

What A Mother Knows by Leslie Lehr Blog Tour: Interview, Review & Giveaway(Sponsored)

Today, I am happy to be a part of the blog tour (This tour is sponsored by the publisher Sourcebooks) for What A Mother Knows by Leslie Lehr.  This is an engaging story about a woman who comes back from the brink of death, only to find her whole life has fallen apart, and the worst thing is that her eighteen year daughter ran away.  It is a terrifying thought to think of your child out alone somewhere in the world, and it presents the question: What would you do to recover your child?  I have Leslie here to answer a few short interview questions.  Be sure to check out the rest of the tour and enter the giveaway!

Here is Leslie's bio:

Award-winning author of 66 Laps and Wife Goes On, Leslie Lehr’s essays have appeared in the anthology Mommy Wars, The Honeymoon’s Over,and Arianna Huffington’s On Becoming Fearless.  She was the screenwriter for a romantic thriller Heartless, which is screening in Europe, and sold the script “Club Divorce” to Lifetime. She has a BA from the USC School of Cinematic Arts and an MFA from Antioch. She lives in Santa Monica with her husband and two daughters. You can find out more about Leslie on her website, Facebook, Twitter and Goodreads.

Here is my interview with Leslie:

How did you come up with the idea for What A Mother Knows?

When my daughter was in middle school, she started crying at night, every night - and I felt so helpless. I imagined the worst. I wrote an essay called “Parenting Paranoia” that Arianna Huffington excerpted in her book, On Becoming Fearless. But I was still afraid.

Then I had jury duty on a manslaughter case in which two women were suing the driver of a car that crashed into a sports bar and killed their sons. We had to decide on the value of their loss. And so, in the worst of what-ifs, I started worrying about what my daughter’s value was to me, who I was without her…and how far would I go to protect her.

What kind of research did you do on brain injury and memory loss?  What was the most interesting thing you uncovered?

I consulted with a specialist in Traumatic Brain Injury who runs the Semel Institute at UCLA. I also did a lot of research on the web and read studies from facilities across the country. Then, when Gaby Gifford was injured, there was even more information available. 

The most interesting thing I learned is how many variables there are in terms of recovery. It can be unpredictable. It made me worry about my daughter who has had a concussion. The different kinds of memory were also interesting. For instance, Michelle had to remember older experiences before she could remember more recent ones. The goal for a writer is to include enough detail to make sure the reader doesn’t get distracted by something that doesn’t sound true, yet to avoid telling more than the characters in the story would know.

 

My opinion of Michelle wavered throughout, at first I was very sympathetic toward her, but by the end not so much.  What were your feelings toward Michelle by the end of the book?

 

I knew that she had been betrayed by a lot of people, so I was pretty sympathetic. At first she was a typical working mom, trying to please everyone, but as her situation go more complicated, she had to get stronger. She couldn’t just be nice all the time. And when so much was revealed about her own childhood, I understood her even more. Michelle is a good woman.

 

I was a bit frustrated with Drew.  Why did he never want to sit down and discuss everything with his wife? Did his behavior stem from things that occurred before the accident or after?

 

I wish he would have too, but most men aren’t great at talking. And he was usually out of town working or home, exhausted and angling for the next job. The freelance life in Hollywood is rough on families and makes it hard to stay close to a spouse. He was led to believe that Michelle would not survive, so when she did, he wanted to protect her as much as possible.

Where do you think Michelle will go from here? Do you think she will put back the pieces and become a much better person than she was before?

That’s a good question. I hope she will relax a bit and learn to enjoy the moment. She has a lot of options to explore. It could be another book.

What are some of your recommendations for summer reads?

 

Oh, that is tough. There are already great new books out from, Caroline Leavitt, Jane Porter, and soon Meg Waite Clayton, Brenda Janowitz… I’m a huge fan of women authors and find lots to read between the Girlfriends Group Book Club Reviews, Goodreads and the Barnes & Noble Discover program. And books don’t have to be new to be good!

 

What do you enjoy most about being an author? 

 I enjoy answering thoughtful questions like these, when someone has really read your book. There are so many layers and details that go into the writing – it’s a real gift to explore them with someone who cares. So thank you!

Thanks so much, Leslie, for taking time out of your busy schedule to answer my questions, especially while you are undergoing chemotherapy! My best wishes are prayers are with you for a speedy recovery.  Best of luck with your release! For one lucky U.S. resident there is a chance to win a copy of What A Mother Knows thanks to the good folks at Sourcebooks who are sponsoring this giveaway.  To enter fill out the Rafflecopter See Contest Policies for details..  Good Luck!

Be sure to check the rest of the stops on the tour.  Here is the full schedule:

April 29 - Crochet Nirvana  

May 1 - Chick Lit is Not Dead 

May 2 - Bookfoolery

May 3 - The Bookworm

May 4 - Lori's Reading Corner

May 5 - The Self Taught Cook

May 6 - Mrs Condit Reads Books

May 7 - From the TBR Pile

May 8 - Cocktails and Books

May 9 - Burton Book Review

May 10 - Chick Lit Plus

May 12 - The Book Diva’s Reads

May 13 - Peeking Between the Pages

May 14 - Long and Short Reviews

May 15 - Rainy Day Ramblings

May 16 - Help4NewMoms

May 17 - Winey Mommy

May 18 - Cozy Up with a Good Read

May 20 - A Bookish Way of Life

May 21 – Confessions of a Book Junkie

May 22 - 5 Minutes for Mom

May 23 - Angela Klocke

May 24 - WeeShare

May 26 - Brianna Lee

May 28 - Reading Shelf

May 29 - Socrates Book Reviews

May 31 - Passionate about Books

a Rafflecopter giveaway

 

Here is my review:

What A Mother Knows by Leslie Lehr

An unsettling, emotional and suspenseful novel of the unshakable bonds of motherhood, in which Michelle Mason not only loses her memory after a deadly car crash, but can't find her 16-year-old daughter, the one person who may know what happened that day. But the deeper Michelle digs, the more she questions the innocence of everyone, even herself. A dramatic portrayal of the fragile skin of memory, What a Mother Knows is about finding the truth that can set love free. 
Paperback, 384 pages
Published: May 1st 2013 by Sourcebooks

Source: Publisher/Netgalley in exchange for an honest, unbiased review

 

 

  1/2

Three and a half Stars: An unsettling tale about memory loss.

Michelle wobbles as she takes the last steps to her house.  At last, after eighteen months in the hospital, she is returning home to her family and friends.  A horrific car crash put her in a coma.  She wasn't expected to survive, but she did! The only drawback is her memory of the events of that day and those leading up to it are swept clean.  As Michelle attempts to settle into her former life, some unsettling and frightening truths come forth, the biggest one being that her now eighteen year daughter is not in Australia studying abroad as her husband told her. Nikki is instead missing, and no one is sure of her whereabouts.  Michelle's fragile world shatters.  She is determined that she will find her daughter at whatever cost.  How far will Michelle go to find her daughter?

What I Liked;

• The first half of this book is riveting. I was completely caught up in Michelle's desperate story.  She, in the beginning, comes across as very sympathetic. I felt so sorry for her as I watched her stumble and falter trying to regain her footing. Not only did she almost die, but she sustained devastating injuries such as the loss of movement in her arm and memory loss.  Just when she was looking forward to a bit of peace and happiness, she is barraged with some harsh and disturbing truths.  The worst being the disappearance of her daughter.  My heart went out to her at this point, since I am a mother. I can't imagine the horror of not knowing where your child is. The beginning of the story totally sucked me in!
• I liked watching everything unravel as Michelle again and again discovers some big secrets.  It was certainly shocking from one revelation to the next, and honestly I never knew what was coming.  There were certainly some startling twists in this one! The suspense kept me totally on edge, and I was thinking about the story between reads. 
• At the heart of the story is Michelle's unwavering, unconditional love for her lost daughter.  Even though some of her decisions frustrated me at times, I had to admire her fierce resolve and drive to find her daughter at any cost. I know as a mother, I would go to the ends of the earth to find one of my children if they were missing. I liked that the love for her child was such an important aspect of the story. 
• I was relieved to see that the ending drew to a satisfactory close.  Michelle in a way redeems herself, and I was glad to see that she finds closure and got a somewhat happy ending after all the drama.  It is always nice to read a book that has a solid ending without a jarring cliffhanger or an open/ determine your own ending.  

And The Not So Much:

• During the first half of the story, I felt very sympathetic toward Michelle, but as the plot wore on, I grew increasingly frustrated with her and her decisions.  I thought at times she was a bit selfish, and I didn't like the way she treated her son and her husband.  Some of her antics were very questionable, such as considering a big movie deal and her relationship with her doctor.  At the end during her trial, I was also a bit shocked at her choice.  After all that,though, she does redeem herself with her donation and her reconciliation with her mother.  I liked that this led to a warm, feel good ending. 
• Drew, Michelle's husband, frustrated me to no end. I could not believe his behavior and understand his motives for constantly lying to his wife. I hated that they not once sat down after her return from the hospital and had a frank discussion about everything that had happened during her recovery. Instead he continually ignores her and tells her to rest.  I would liked to have understood his motives better, and I never got that.  Furthermore, I hated the way everything played out between them.  I didn't understand if his behavior stemmed from events that transpired between them before the accident or if they came while Michelle was in the hospital. 
• There were a few times when I felt that the uncovering of a clue was a bit of a stretch.  This isn't a big deal, just an observation. 
• The second half didn't grasp my attention as much as the first, and I blame that on my lack of sympathy toward Michelle.  While I was totally vested in her well being and such the first portion, when she starts to make some questionable decisions, I started disliking her, and this led to me not staying as engaged in the book. 

What a Mother Knows is an interesting book that explores the devastating aftermath of a women who survives a near life ending car crash and suffers memory loss.  Just when it seems her life will steer back on course, everything falls apart as she learns everything that transpired during her convalescence.  Now she is faced with the fact that her daughter is missing, and Michelle will stop at nothing to find her.  This brings up the terrifying question: Just how far would you go to recover your child? 

Favorite Quotations:

"She used to think that the worst thing that could happen, to have Nikki working at McDonald's."

"She thought of Nikki again, still, always.  Was she watching the same sunset?  Or was she on a different patch of the planet, where the day was done and the stars were winking down at her?"

"Did she really love this man, or did she love the idea of him? Was this painful longing one loss, or just plain loneliness?"

 

I received an advanced copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.  All opinions are my own and I was not compensated for this review.

How My Summer Went Up in Flames by Jennifer Salvato Doktorski (Sponsored)

First she lost her heart. Then she lost her mind. And now she’s on a road trip to win back her ex. This debut novel’s packed with drama and romance! Rosie’s always been impulsive. She didn’t intend to set her cheating ex-boyfriend’s car on fire. And she never thought her attempts to make amends could be considered stalking. So when she’s served with a temporary restraining order on the first day of summer vacation, she’s heartbroken—and furious. To put distance between Rosie and her ex, Rosie’s parents send her on a cross-country road trip with responsible, reliable neighbor Matty and his two friends. Forget freedom of the road, Rosie wants to hitchhike home and win back her ex. But her determination starts to dwindle with each passing mile. Because Rosie’s spark of anger? It may have just ignited a romance with someone new…Hardcover, 320 pages Published May 7th 2013 by Simon Pulse Source: Publisher/ Edelweiss: In exchange for an honest review

 

 

Three and a half stars: A light, fun summer road trip book.

Being slapped with a Restraining Order and a court date for supposedly torching your cheating ex-boyfriend's car was not how Rosie planned on starting on her summer.  She had big plans to work at a bridal store, walk dogs and spend ample time with her boyfriend Joey.  When Rosie caught Joey cheating with a freshman, she couldn't contain her rage.  In anger, she placed all her keepsakes from the nine month relationship in a box on his driveway and set fire to it.  Somehow, the fire got out of hand and blew up his car, even though Rosie doesn't know how that was possible.  It doesn't matter since she is currently being blamed.  When Matty, her best friend and next door neighbor, comes to the rescue with a brilliant plan for keeping her out of trouble, Rosie is anything but excited.  However, her parents agree to send her across the country in a car with three dorky nerds in order to keep her away from Joey.  Along the way she might lose her heart again.....

What I Liked:

• This was an easy, breezy summer read with fun characters, a good story and a great cross country road trip.  If you are looking for a fast, light read for a lazy summer day this is a good bet.  It certainly made me smile.  I am a big fan of road trip books, and I thoroughly enjoyed the cross country trip from New Jersey to my former home state of Arizona. I got a little nostalgic when they hit Arizona and visited many of the sights I am very familiar with.  I soaked up every bit of the road trip! 
• I enjoyed the humor in this one.  Rosie has plenty of spark and her sarcastic attitude made me smile.  The geeky boys are also capable of making you laugh.  This was just what I needed a happy escape novel. 
• I loved all three of the nerdy boys.  Rosie is not one bit excited to be headed across country with three nerds, and granted, they do come across as geeks at first glance.  Just like any person, though, once you dig a little deeper there usually is a sweet center, and that is exactly what Rosie got with Matty, Spencer and Logan.  I completely enjoyed some of the nerdy behavior like having every little detail mapped out on an itinerary and the geeky conversations.  These boys have big hearts and any girl would be lucky to claim one of them as a boyfriend.  Matty, Rosie's best friend, is especially wonderful.  He is so kind, caring and considerate.  Who wouldn't want to have a guy like Matty for a best friend?  
• Rosie....let's talk about Rosie.  For the first half of the book she is a bit of a pain.  She is self centered, shallow, selfish and a bit obsessive.  Of course, she is nursing a broken heart after her first love cheated on her and broke her heart.  She is like any typical teenage girl who falls in love and ends up with heartache.  She is hurt and obsessed as she repeatedly stalks her ex.  Even though she is difficult, I think anyone who has endured a broken heart or two will be able to commiserate with Rosie.  Even though she made me laugh, I did struggle with her selfishness and single mindedness.  For instance, Rosie is one of those girls who believes she is going to marry her first love and live happily ever after in New Jersey without considering her future options such as college and career.  Let's face it, how many high school couples get married and make it?  Then when she gets dumped her whole future is down the drain and she is lost.  Thankfully, during the road trip, she slowly begins to open her eyes and think about something other than herself and Joey.  By the end of the trip, she has matured, and I was very pleased with her growth.  Again, she isn't always an easy character to like, but I loved her voice and I totally understood where she was coming from.
• The romance.... I was fully expecting Rosie to immediately end up with one of the boys in the car.  Seriously, what teenage girl wouldn't like going on a road trip with three guys? I would! I was happy to see, though, that the romance doesn't ignite on the trip. It wouldn't be realistic for Rosie to jump into another romance while she is still trying to piece her heart back together.  Thankfully, she refrains even though she is certainly tempted, and in the end there are a few sparks and a possibility.  Where it will go is uncertain, but the author certainly leaves room for a sequel.  I was afraid that it might steer into love triangle territory, but it doesn't!
• I loved that Rosie's family played a big role in this book.  More often than not, parents are mysteriously absent from YA books.  Not in this case.  Rosie's mom and dad and even her brother are very involved in Rosie's life, and it was very apparent that they cared deeply for her and were willingly to do what was necessary to see her through her rough patch.  It was refreshing to see the family play an integral role in this book.
• I was happy that almost everything tied up at the end.  There is room for a sequel, but this certainly works well as a stand alone.  No cliffhangers!

And The Not So Much:

• I was disappointed that Joey seemed to wriggle off the hook for his behavior.  I was expecting after some of the revelations that he would get into more trouble, but it seems he for the most part gets away with his bad behavior.  
• Logan and Spencer, the two brothers, reveal during the road trip that they come from an unhappy home.  Their father is an alcoholic and is abusive.  There is very little detail on this story angle, and I found that I was wanting a bit more.  I always appreciate when authors take on tough topics, and even though alcoholism is introduced it isn't really dealt with.  Logan's answer to the problem is to run away to Arizona.  While I understand that is reality sometimes, I was hoping for a better outcome for the brothers. I was also concerned about Spencer staying in the home without his brother. I wanted desperately to know if he would be okay.
• I read a digital ARC version of this book, and it appeared my copy may have been missing some pages.  There is a scene where the foursome is camping out at the Grand Canyon.  Logan and Rosie have a moment in the tent, and I am not sure what transpired because this is where the book jumped ahead.  The next thing I know Rosie is storming outside of the tent.  I am curious to know what was chopped out of my copy.  

How My Summer Went Up in Flames is a light, quick read that will be perfect for passing a few hours on a summer day.  It is enjoyable even if it lacks a bit of depth and there is nothing overly thrilling or exciting.  What it does have is great characters, major growth and a fun road trip.  If you are looking for a easy breezy summer read pick this one. I certainly enjoyed it!

Favorite Quotations:

"Take it easy, all right?"  I'm not the problem, your bad temper is."  "I don't have a bad temper."  I look down at my purple toenails, away from Matty's beady blue-eyed stare.  "I'm passionate."

"Good way to keep busy after a breakup.  Hoping incarceration would fill those empty hours?"

"My parents thought it was best for me to attend an all-girls Catholic school because it's every teenage girl's dream to dress like a Scottish bagpipe player.  All because I got busted at an eight-grade graduation party playing seven minutes in the closet with Armand DelVecchio, who, by the way, kisses like a seal.  It wasn't even worth it."

"Avery's not one of those princess bashers.  I mean, I know women are supposed to stan on their own and all.  I get that.  But every once in awhile it doesn't hurt to wish for a fairy godmother, a little magic, and a happy ending."

"When I look into his eyes, I want to cry.  I get it; there's too much to say, so we aren't saying anything."

 

Note all quotations are taken from an Advanced Reader's Copy and may vary slightly from the final version.

 

I received an ARC of this book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.  All opinions are my own and I was not compensated for this review.

Using the Amazon buy links generates a very small commission fee for this blog. 

Mother's Day Giveaways (Sponsored)

Happy Mother's Day To all the Moms out there! I know you are expecting a Sunday Post today, but instead I have two wonderful Mother's Day Giveaways! Be sure to check them both out and enter! Have a wonderful day! The Sunday Post will be back next week!

Stephanie Lisa Tara presents Mother Sea Turtle month!  Mothers need to stick together; whether scaly, feathered, furry or skinned! And to celebrate this Mother's Day and the release of her newest turtle book, Stephanie Lisa Tara's Turtle Book—which is the companion follow-up to her first international bestseller, I'll Follow the Moon—Stephanie Lisa Tara is giving away 2 gorgeous, large plush sea turtles (26"L x 8"H x 16"W) to reviewers!

 Dear Turtle Activists,

I want to thank each and every one of you for your tireless dedication and love to our cause! I have written this book FOR YOU! I dedicate this book TO YOU! 120 pages of fotos, facts and fun!

Stephanie Lisa Tara's Turtle Book has a primary goal: SAVING SEA TURTLES FROM EXTINCTION. A portion of proceeds from this book go to charitable organizations like the Turtle Foundation (www.turtle-foundation.org) of whom my first turtle book, I'LL FOLLOW THE MOON—is a proud sponsor.

If you are new to us—please join with us, for together, holding hands, we can effect change. Yes—really! xoxo. SAVE GREEN SEA TURTLES on Facebook (www.facebook.com/.../Save-Green-Sea-T...) is our hugely popular hang-out—tens of thousands of Activists-strong. Please join us!

NOW—prepare for something totally new and amazing!

Stephanie Lisa Tara's Turtle Book is not your typical scientific turtle book: my special book is all about having FUN! Enjoy the mini FLIP-BOOK in the corners and create a movie of your own! Click the ebook pages—or thumb through manually in the paperback—YOUR CHOICE!

I've written these chapters in a fun, chatty voice—you know, the one YOU use when talking up your favorite topics! Don't be surprised if you find yourself giggling as you turn pages! Enjoy breathtaking photography, incredible facts, and way-out wow'ing surprises that these millennium-old creatures have to share.

AND: TWO IS BETTER THAN ONE! Yep! Stephanie Lisa Tara's Turtle Book is my second turtle book—it's a perfect TWIN to my first international bestseller, I'LL FOLLOW THE MOON: buy BOTH TOGETHER for your shelf. Two little twins; one a fable, one fotos, facts & fun.

So, in closing...please accept this deeply personal gift from me, your faithful sea turtle leader, the turtle-lady, or Stephanie Lisa Turtle - as I was renamed recently by a fan—from my heart to yours.

GOD BLESS EVERYONE WHO HAS SUPPORTED THE CAUSE TO SAVE SEA TURTLES FROM EXTINCTION!

I've always believed that magic hides in special places. As a child, people would often stare at my bright red hair, which was very, very bright indeed.
Unfortunately, I developed a bad habit of making up rhymes about all of them, and they soon became funny characters. I didn't have much time to think about being different; fanciful lyricisms danced in my head, and no one was safe!
Since then, I've come to believe that storytelling has the power to inspire a deep love of language and learning. Words tripping off the tongue in somersaults that stick to your thoughts like taffy-- those are the things that stay forever in the mind.
I've lived in many special places: on a farm, in a city skyscraper, on a tropical beach, and in the beautiful country of France. Now I live in northern California, between the redwood forests and the sea. Even though I'm an adult, I'm still as silly as ever.
Many nice words have been used to describe my books, such as fun, engaging, delightful, and whimsical. Some folks say that I deliver timeless messages of love for kids and parents to share again and again; this makes me very happy. I hope that you'll enjoy my stories, too. Captivating children with language is something that I believe in, and I strive to live my life with this always.
--Stephanie Lisa Tara
www.StephanieLisaTara.com
stephanielisatarabooks@gmail.com

Cause pages (each supports a book's vision):

Facebook page for Save the Polar Bears | Facebook Page for Save the Green Turtles | Facebook Page for Save the Redwood Forests

Stephanie Lisa Tara's Personal Sites:

Facebook | Amazon | Website

Giveaway:

15 lucky people will win a copy of Stephanie Lisa Tara's Turtle Book. You must be 13 or older to enter. Open to US addresses only.  Giveaway runs from May 12th to June 12, 2013

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Two lucky reviewers will win a Melissa and Doug Giant Plush Stuffed Sea Turtle that retails at $34.99 and measures 26"L x 8"H x 16"W.  You must review Stephanie Lisa Tara's Turtle Book on Amazon to enter.  This giveaway runs from Mothers Day, May 12th to June 12th, 2013.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

And you can still enter to win a Kindle Fire! 

a Rafflecopter giveaway

A huge thanks to Candace and Stephanie Lisa Tara for putting together this fun post and giveaway for you all! 

The second book I have for review and giveaway is a charming little book for the younger reader:

Oh, the Things my mom will do....because she loves me through and through by Marianne Richmond

What a child sees as everyday routine is anything but for a mom! Oh, the Things My Mom Will Do is a celebration of the unpredictable adventure that is motherhood with its sometimes silly, always heartfelt, and wonderfully important moments--all rooted in love. This sweet and amusing book will have book moms and kids smiling with recognition while spotlighting all the different ways a mom shows her devotion.

Hardcover, 32 pages

Published April 2nd 2013 by Sourcebooks Jabberwocky 

Source: Publisher  in exchange for an unbiased review

 

                                         

Four Stars: Just in time for Mother's Day a delightful book that Mother's everywhere will identify with and enjoy. 

This charming little picture book relates the many, many different trials and troubles that go hand in hand with Motherhood. From the Mother chasing the school bus in her pajamas with a forgotten lunch, to the Mom who stayed up all night sewing a last minute costume, and let's not forget the Mother who had to back track through all the errands to find a lost teddy bear. These are just a few of the things that Mom's do that are featured in the book, and a reminder of the day in day out, sacrifices Mothers everywhere make to ensure the happiness of their children. I absolutely loved that this picture book captured everything a mother endures. This is the perfect book to not only read to your young child, but it is an excellent book to give to an expectant Mother, or for a husband to give to his wife on Mother's Day or perhaps even your own Mom as a reminder and sign of appreciation for everything that she did for you. I enjoyed the fun, colorful illustrations, and I especially appreciated that it featured Mother's of all ethnicities. The soothing rhyming verses will appeal to the younger readers. All in all, this is a perfect little book for Mother's Day or any day as it shows you just how much a Mother loves her child. I highly recommend you check this one out!

I received a copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own and I was not compensated for this review. 

Here is a sample of the delightful illustrations

(Artwork was provided by Sourcebooks Jabberwocky and posted with permission).

Marianne was kind enough to provide a couple of fun crafting ideas for your young ones for Mother's or Father's Day.  Be sure to check out her website for more ideas.

I Love You Pillowcase

Dear Mom or Dear Dad Mosaic Journal

Thanks to the wonderful folks at Sourcebooks Jabberwocky I am able to offer a copy of Oh, the Things my mom will do by Marianne Richmond.  To enter fill out the Rafflecopter.  This is open to U.S. Residents only.  Good Luck! Have a wonderful Mother's Day!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Spring Carnival Day 6: How To Eat A Cupcake by Meg Donahue

Today is my final post of the Spring Carnival Food Booth! The Food Cover Challenge ends tomorrow so get your entries in. Also be sure to head to the Spring Carnival and get in all your last minute visits. You don't want to miss out! 

Today, I saved the best for last as today's post is all about cupcakes!

Seriously, who doesn't love a good cupcake?  They have exploded in popularity as of late and you can get them in practically any flavor.  I couldn't decide what recipe to share with you today when I started searching and I could have easily gotten lost in all the cakey goodness.... So I decided to give you a choice of cupcakes.  Here is a cupcake recipe pin with ten different delicious cupcakes, something for everyone. There are margarita cupcakes, lemon cupcakes, banana, vanilla and of course chocolate! Pick your pleasure! What one do you most want to try?

Finally, I am reviewing a fun little book all about cupcakes!

How to Eat a Cupcake by Meg Donahue

Funny, free-spirited Annie Quintana and sophisticated, ambitious Julia St. Clair come from two different worlds. Yet, as the daughter of the St. Clair’s housekeeper, Annie grew up in Julia’s San Francisco mansion and they forged a bond that only two little girls who know nothing of class differences and scholarships could—until a life-altering betrayal destroyed their friendship.

A decade later, Annie is now a talented, if underpaid, pastry chef who bakes to fill the void left in her heart by her mother’s death. Julia, a successful businesswoman, is tormented by a painful secret that could jeopardize her engagement to the man she loves. When a chance reunion prompts the unlikely duo to open a cupcakery, they must overcome past hurts and a mysterious saboteur or risk losing their fledgling business and any chance of healing their fractured friendship.
Paperback, 309 pages 
Published March 13th 2012 by William Morrow Paperbacks
Source: Library/Borrowed 

 

 

 

Four stars: A riveting cupcakey read.

Annie closes her eyes, draws a deep breath and tries to vanquish the old ghosts.  After ten years, she has returned to the house where her mother worked as a servant for the wealthy St. Clair family during her youth.  Ten years ago, her mother collapsed on their kitchen floor and died a few short days later of a brain aneurism.  Since then, Annie has avoided the family, until now.  Today, she is back to serve her delectable cupcakes for a St. Clair social function.  When Annie comes face to face with Julia St. Clair, it is all she can do to maintain her composure.  Julia was once her best playmate and friend, but their last year of high school was strained since Annie was the daughter of the hired help and Julia was the popular wealthy girl.  Once Julia tastes Annie's cupcakes, she knows that she must open a cupcakery with Annie as it is the only way to take her mind of her own personal demons.  However, there are many bumps in the road and it opening the cupcakery will be a strain on the already fragile friendship.  Can Annie and Julia finally bury the past? 

What I Liked:

• I was expecting a light, fluffy read and was surprised to find a riveting read with plenty of depth and even some mystery.  This is more than an easy chick lit read.  It is a book about personal growth, forgiveness and learning from one's mistakes.  This is a book with plenty of character growth and dramatic change.  I was pleased to find that was more than a simple read.  
• This is told from the dual view points of Annie and Julia.  I am a big fan of first person dual narratives, and I thought that in this book it was executed very well.  I loved getting into both Annie and Julia's heads and seeing what drove them and how they viewed one another.  They both have plenty of baggage and old demons, Julia especially has a great deal to overcome.  It is a rocky journey as these two childhood friends learn to forgive and move forward. 
• Julia was a character that totally caught me off guard.  When the book opens, she is selfish, fake, cold and unlikable. I honestly for the majority of the book did not enjoy her character. However, by the end, I had a complete change of heart once I learned why she was acting the way she was.  Once she conquers her personal demons, she is enjoyable. I love when characters catch me off guard and completely transform.  
• I was especially surprised to find that this book had a great deal of mystery and suspense.  Again, I was expecting a more cozy type of read and was excited to find that this book had a believable mystery, and I was totally drawn into the story.  There are certainly a few surprises and a couple of twists that I didn't see coming as well.  This is beyond your average chick lit or cozy mystery as it has depth.  Not once did I encounter a situation that wasn't believable, unlike a cozy mystery where I struggle with believability.  I enjoyed that this book was about real people in real life situations.  
• Finally, I was pleased as punch to find that this book refrained from cliffhangers and love triangles.  Everything wraps up nicely!

   And The Not So Much:

• I was not a fan of the romance regarding Annie.  For the majority of the book it appears she is going to have a romantic relationship with one man, and then that doesn't pan out so she supposedly by the end is involved with a man whom she found to be pompous and a bit obnoxious.  I struggled with this because she for the most part didn't like the man and then suddenly it jumps from point A to C and skips over everything in between.  I wanted to see it unfold and that doesn't happen.
• Once the two ladies endeavor to open the shop, they start having problems with vandalism.  This happens on numerous occasions and it isn't until a brick is hurled through the window that they decide to install a security camera. I thought this was a bit ridiculous as you would think after the first time they would have been all about getting additional security, but there are several incidents before they decide to take action.  
• I was a bit disappointed with Julia's admission of guilt toward Annie.  I thought that Annie deserved a far better apology than what Julie gave after everything she put Annie through. I was expecting a bit more emotion with this scene, especially since there is so much build up to that point.  When it finally arrives, it kind of fizzles. 
• This is me being persnickety, but I desperately wanted a few of those delicious cupcake recipes, since I spent the whole book drooling over all the decadent cupcake descriptions, and alas, there are none to be found. I always love to get those bonus recipes at the end of a food type book.  So if you are expecting cupcake recipes, you will be disappointed.

How to Eat a Cupcake ended up being an entertaining read far beyond your average fluffy book.  This has great characters, plenty of tension and drama and even suspense and mystery with a few twists.  If you are looking for a delicious book with a bit of depth then grab this one.  I was glued to the pages and stayed up well past my bedtime as I couldn't stop until I reached the end.  

Favorite Quotations:

“But wasn’t it only human to want other people’s good fortune for yourself? Or did that make you a bad person?”

“Louise, on the other hand, was half giggling, half moaning her way through a second cupcake, this time a lemonade pound cake with a layer of hot pink Swiss meringue buttercream icing curling into countless tiny waves as festive and feminine as a little girl’s birthday tiara.”

“I seem to leave every encounter I have with you with my own words ringing unattractively in my ears and the distinct taste of my own foot in my mouth.”

“Sometimes,” he said slowly, “the things that happen when we’re young are the hardest to let go of.”

 

FTC Disclosure: I borrowed this book from the library.  All opinions are my own and I was not compensated for this review. 

 

 

Thanks so much for stopping by for all the sugary goodness this week. I had bringing the Food Booth to you all! 

 

Spring Carnival Day 4: Brownies and Broomsticks by Bailey Cates

Back for more deliciousness?  Pies, cookies and today, Brownies! 

Who doesn't love a rich chocolate brownie?  I did a little searching for you all on Pinterest and found a couple of to die for Brownie recipes! Here is a recipe from Julia Childs. Rich, delicious chocolate and easy! 

Here is one to die for The Knock You Naked Brownies. Now I admit I don't usually like recipes that use mixes and such, but I tried these and they are ridiculously good!

Finally, I realize not everyone loves chocolate... I know gasp! My husband is one of those people. So I am including a non chocolate recipe for you all. How about the Blondie Bars with Maple Sauce! Yum!

Okay, now that you are all wanting to run into the kitchen and bake, I need to remind you of all the fun going on at The Spring Carnival.  Check in and get in on the challenges and giveaways! Don't forget to enter my Food Cover Challenge.

Finally, How about another food book review since I am sticking with a theme of everything delicious! I have a cute little cozy mystery for you today!

Brownies and Broomsticks (A Magical Bakery Mystery#1) by Bailey Cates

EASY BAKE COVEN 

Katie Lightfoot's tired of loafing around as the assistant manager of an Ohio bakery. So when her aunt Lucy and uncle Ben open a bakery in Savannah's quaint downtown district and ask Katie to join them, she enthusiastically agrees.

While working at the Honeybee Bakery—named after Lucy's cat—Katie notices that her aunt is adding mysterious herbs to her recipes. Turns out these herbal enhancements aren't just tasty—Aunt Lucy is a witch and her recipes are actually spells!

When a curmudgeonly customer is murdered outside the Honeybee Bakery, Uncle Ben becomes the prime suspect. With the help of handsome journalist Steve Dawes, charming firefighter Declan McCarthy, and a few spells, Katie and Aunt Lucy stir up some toil and trouble to clear Ben's name and find the real killer. 
Mass Market Paperback, 323 pages 
Published May 1st 2012 by Signet
Source: Borrowed-Library 

 

 

Three stars: A bakery cozy with plenty of good eats.

Katie is ready for a fresh new start.  Her heart needs to mend after a broken engagement.  When Aunt Lucy and Uncle Ben decided to open a bakery in Savannah, Katie jumped at the chance to help out.  She has spent the last few years working long hours as an assistant manager in a bakery, so she is more than prepared to help start The Honeybee Bakery.  Just when things are looking sunny side up right before the grand opening, a rather nasty woman, who has a great deal of clout, is murdered right in front of the bakery.  The worst part is that she and Uncle Ben had been arguing right before she was found dead, and now Uncle Ben is the prime suspect.  Katie is determined to help clear Uncle Ben's name and save the bakery.  What she doesn't know is that her Aunt Lucy has a few magical secrets to share.  Can Katie save her uncle and The Honeybee Baker? 

What I Liked:

• I enjoy cozy mysteries set in sweet shoppes and bakeries the most.  I was happy to settle into the charming confines of The Honeybee Bakery.  The delicious sweet treats served up daily made my mouth water and I wanted desperately to head there and spend an afternoon sipping coffee, chomping down treats and reading eclectic books from the book corner.  I was happy to find two yummy recipes at the end of the book that I will have to try! 
• I adored Mungo the little Cairn Terrier who shows up at Katie's door.  He is a special magical dog and he ends up being Katie's familiar.  He was super cute, and he just made me smile!
• I liked the inclusion of witches and magic into the book.  Katie comes from a line of witches and is unaware of her hereditary magic until her aunt clues her in.  From that point on, there are plenty of spells and magic.  I liked learning about all the witchy stuff.  If you like your cozy mysteries to have a dash of magic, this is a good one to try.
• I appreciated that there was plenty of mystery and I enjoyed unraveling the clues to help catch the killer.  There were several suspects and motives and it was fun guessing who the culprit was.  
• I was relieved that the majority of the story lines wrapped up neatly.  The murderer is caught and many wrongs are righted.  There were not a bunch of lingering questions.  I always appreciate when I get a neat resolution. 

And The Not So Much:

• I didn't like that this book tried to include a love triangle.  I personally didn't really feel drawn to either of the male suitors, and I hated that the two were enemies.  There was too many scenes where the two prospective love interests would meet and Katie would be caught in the middle of their long time feud.  These scenes felt like a lot of male posturing and chest beating I was not a fan of this at all!  
• A great deal of time is spent focusing on the witchcraft and the murder mystery and at times, it felt like a bit of information overload when it came to both of these topics. 
• This lacked a bit of cozy for me. I would have loved more discussions on baking and recipes, and more time spent in the bakery. I was pleased that there were two delicious recipes at the end, one for peanut butter chocolate brownies and cheese scones, but I am selfish and I would have loved a couple of more, like the cornmeal maple donuts!
• This is a small quibble, but I was looking forward to all the Southern charm of the Savannah setting and I was disappointed that the city itself was not a bigger part.  In fact, this book could have been set anywhere because there is very little discussion on Savannah.  I am a big fan of cozy mysteries that incorporate the town/city as a major part of the book, and sadly that was not the case with this book. 
• Even though I liked Katie, at times, I thought her character got a bit obnoxious and too pushy.  She was always sticking her nose into police business and being chastised for it, and I thought that her uncovering some of the clues was a bit unbelievable, but that is the formula for a cozy mystery so I should expect it.  

Brownies and Broomsticks was a pleasant introduction to a new bakery cozy series.  It also has just a pinch of magic.  It was a quick read and everything wrapped up neatly.  Beware that there is a bit of a love triangle.  If you are looking for a light, sweet read for summer check this out. 

Favorite Quotations:

"Change is inevitable, they say. Struggle is optional.  Your life's path deviates from what you intend.  Whether you like it or not.  Whether you fight it or not.  Whether your heart breaks or not. "

"I'd held my whole life----that fate was what you made it.  That people control their own destiny.  And that even if they can't always control the things that happen to them, they get to decide their own reactions."

 

I borrowed a copy of this book.  All opinions are my own and I was not compensated for this review.

Spring Carnival Day 3: When in Doubt Add Butter by Beth Harbison

 

 

Day Three of the Spring Carnival brings another sweet treat! Today I am reviewing When In Doubt Add Butter by Beth Harbison. Don't you just want to reach in and eat those cupcakes? Monday it was all about pies, today I am going to share sugar cookies with buttercream frosting because sugar cookies and buttercream and all about butter! Before we get to all the yummy stuff...... have you entered the Food Cover Challenge? Make sure to do it for your chance to win. Also don't forget to head over to the Spring Carnival Map and check out all the other fantastic booths and challenges going on.  Have fun! 

All week, I am sharing food recipes from my Pinterest board. Now sugar cookies are always delicious especially when they are frosted with colored frosting, but sometimes it is too much to roll and cut them out individually so I have the perfect solution! Sugar Cookie Squares, the deliciousness of sugar cookies with the easy preparation of a pan cookie! What is not to like? Here is the fantastic recipe! 

Enjoy! Now here is my review:

When In Doubt Add Butter by Beth Harbison

As far as Gemma is concerned, her days of dating are over. In fact, it’s her job to cater other peoples’ dates, and that’s just fine by her. At thirty-seven, she has her own business, working as a private chef, and her life feels full and secure. She’s got six steady clients that keep her hands full.

There’s Lex, the fussy but fabulous department store owner who loves Oysters Rockefeller and 1950s comfort food; Willa, who needs to lose weight under doctor’s orders but still believes butter makes everything better; a colorful family who may or may not be part of the Russian mob; an überwealthy Georgetown family; the picture-perfect Van Houghtens, whose matriarch is “allergic to everything”; and finally, a man she calls “Mr. Tuesday,” whom she has never met but who she is strangely drawn to.

For Gemma, cooking is predictable. Recipes are certain. Use good ingredients, follow the directions, and you are assured success. Life, on the other hand, is full of variables. So when Gemma’s takes an unexpected turn on a road she always thought was straight and narrow, she must face her past and move on in ways she never would have imagined. Because sometimes in life, all you need is a little hope, a lot of courage, and---oh yes---butter. 
Hardcover, 338 pages 
Published July 17th 2012 by St. Martin's Press

 

 

 

At thirty seven Gemma thinks she is content with her life.  She is a personal chef, and every week she cooks for a different family every day.  Some of her clients are fun and a pleasure to work for, while others are the most difficult people to please, but she manages to do it.  Everything is going fine until the night she shows up at one of her clients, and unbeknownst to Gemma, there is now a peacock living there.  Peacocks are sexually attracted to blue, and Gemma’s car just so happens to be blue.  One run over peacock later, Gemma is out a job.  As she scrambles to get another person to cook for, she begins to wonder if she is really and truly happy with her life and her current situation.  Then everything begins to unravel and she knows she is in trouble.  Can Gemma add a bit of butter and make everything right again in her world?

What I Liked:

• This book definitely made me laugh.  Gemma is easy to like and she certainly manages to get herself into some funny situations, such as the peacock incident where she inadvertently runs over a peacock that is trying to hump her car.  Gemma has spunk and spark and she is a great protagonist.  
• I enjoyed getting to knew each of Gemma’s clients as the book progressed. Some of them are fun, and others are just beasts, like Maria the woman who has a long list of things she will not eat.  I liked how she learned new things about her regular people, like the old Russian man, who Gemma thinks is a part of the Russian Mafia.  However, the mysterious Mr. Tuesday is definitely my favorite.
• The romance in this one is just right.  I loved that it was a slow burner and that it had a fun little twist as well.  There are a few breathless moments where you wonder if everything will fall into place, but in the end I was pleased, and I had a smile on my face.
• I appreciated that this book introduces us to a woman who is grossly obese and a shut in.  It takes awhile for Gemma to get to know her, but once she does she is a very interesting character and you can’t help but cheer Willa on as you hope that she somehow will succeed at her weight loss.  There is actually an interesting discussion between Gemma and Willa on calories and such that I enjoyed.
• Even though this may appear to be a light, fluffy chick lit type book, it actually has some depth to it, and I appreciated that it exposed some more emotional issues such as dealing obesity and teenage pregnancy and adoption.  This is a read that I thought provided the right balance between fun and serious.  It is a book that won’t make you think too hard or tear out your heart.  It is a perfect light beach read.  

And The Not So Much:

• This is not a big issue, but I was expecting this book to feature sweet treats as the cover displays those delicious looking cupcakes, but there are no deserts in the book.  All the cooking refers to regular type meals and there are not any recipes included, which is something I always enjoy in my foodie type books.
• I was a bit disappointed that the whole thread regarding the teenage pregnancy and adoption didn’t go anywhere. I kept waiting for something big to happen as far as that story angle was concerned, but alas it is only used to show character growth, and nothing more.
• One thing that niggled at me the whole time was how could Gemma cook for someone for over a year and never meet them in person, it really isn’t explained how she managed to get the job without having an interview with the man. You would think that having a stranger come into your home every week and prepare your meals that you would at least want to meet them.  
• While I did enjoy the Epilogue at the end, I thought that everything tied off a little too happily ever after.  It is nice to get a big happy ending for everyone but a few things felt like a bit of a stretch to me, like the situation with Willa, I don’t think enough time had passed to make that believable.

When in Doubt Add Butter is perfectly pleasant way to while away an afternoon.  It features interesting characters and a good story line.  This is a simple book with a fun little romantic twist that should satisfy the romance lovers.  The only disappointment for me was that it lacked all the fun recipes that I adore in food books.  Still if you are looking for something good and easy for a beach read or traveling this would be a nice book to pack. 

Favorite Quotations:

You’ve got one life with zero guarantees, so you do your best, adapt if possible and keep breathing.  I recommend striving for happiness, but many opt for duty and responsibility.  Mileage varies.”

“Your life, your game, your rules.”

“Here’s the only thing I know for sure:  Chopped pineapple is incredible on hot dogs.  Honest to God.  I love pineapple on everything---I would probably even eat it off a cadaver’s hand---but toss it with a little chopped onion and...put it on a hot dog, and it’s bliss.  There’s not a lot you can count on in this world, but pineapple?  It’s solid.”

“I don’t wrap it in bacon, because as great as bacon is for just about every reason, I don’t love it withered and stringy around a filet mignon or draped like a limp dick over a meat loaf.”

“Don’t we all do that after a few drinks, Internet-stalk people we used to know?  When they leave all their information open, it’s like Christmas morning.”

“Interesting how you could commit the act with just about anyone--have sex, make love, do the deed, whatever you wanted to call it---it meant as much or as little as you wanted it to until the sex became decidedly unsexy and became, instead, a medical condition.  And then a person.”

 

I borrowed this book.  I was not compensated for this review and all opinions are my own.

Spring Carnival Day 1: Food Cover Challenge, Giveaway, Pies and Prejudice Review and Pie Recipe

I am so excited to once again be participating in the Spring Carnival hosted by Candace@Candace's Book Blog, Lori at Pure Imagination  and Angela at Reading Angel.

Every Blog has a booth and will be hosting their own unique challenge and giveaway! Be sure to click on the banner for the information, or head to any of the host's blogs for more details.  Don't miss out! This event is so much fun! For a complete list of all the blogs and their booths click here.

Here at Rainy Day Ramblings, I am hosting the Food Booth.  That means all books featuring food as well as a week of delcious recipes.  Every day, I will share a recipe for something scrumptious so be sure to check in! I am also reviewing food books for the week!  Let's get started with the Food Booth Challenge!

I have a fun food cover challenge for you all today! To enter fill out the form below.  Put in the title of the corresponding book cover in the correct box on the entry form.  To be eligible to win you must follow Rainy Day Ramblings either by Linky, Facebook, Twitter or email.  I will take all the entries that guess all the covers correctly and select the winner via Random Org.  What is the prize? How about a $15.00 gift card to Amazon for your book of choice, or you may choose a book up to $15.00 in value at The Book Depository.  

I will give you one hint: All the covers were taken from the Food on the Cover List at Goodreads.  Good Luck!

 

1.2.  3.  4. 

 

5.  6.  7.  8.

 

9.  10.  11.  12.

 

13.  14.  15.  16.

 

17.  18.  19.  20.

Now for those of you who aren't inclined to do the challenge.....shame on you! I will take it easy on you and do a giveaway for a $10.00 Giftcard to  Amazon for your choice of book. Just fill out the Rafflecopter to enter! Both Giveaways are International and run through May 12th.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Whew! A lot of fun stuff! Are you hungry? Before I get to my food book review, how about I share a recipe with you? Since the book I am reviewing today is all about Pies I decided to share a pie recipe.  In the interest of not sharing any copyrighted material. I am going to post a picture and you can click on the link and get the recipe off my Pinterest board. 

Today's recipe: Blueberry Crumb Pie Recipe

Yum! Delicious Blueberry Pie!

Here is my review:

Pies and Prejudice (A Charmed Pie Shoppe Mystery #1) by Ellery Adams

When the going gets tough, Ella Mae LaFaye bakes pies. So when she catches her husband cheating in New York, she heads back home to Havenwood, Georgia, where she can drown her sorrows in fresh fruit filling and flakey crust. But her pies aren't just delicious. They're having magical effects on the people who eat them--and the public is hungry for more. Discovering her hidden talent for enchantment, Ella Mae makes her own wish come true by opening the Charmed Pie Shoppe. But with her old nemesis Loralyn Gaynor making trouble, and her old crush Hugh Dylan making nice, she has more than pie on her plate. and when Loralyn's fiancé is found dead--killed with Ella Mae's rolling pin--it'll take all her sweet magic to clear her name. 
Mass Market Paperback, 291 pages 
Published July 2012 by Berkley Publishing Group

 

 

Three and a half stars: A charming book all about pies!

When the elevator doors whisk open to take Ella Mae up to her apartment, she is shocked and horrified to see her husband doing the nasty with two red headed twins in the elevator!  Without thinking, she chucks her pie ingredients at the adulterers and flees.  She arrives at her mother's door in rural Georgia with nothing but the clothes on her back and her puppy, Chewy.  Broken hearted, Ella Mae is looking to restart her life.  She was in the process of completely culinary school, but her dreams of cooking in New York are now bitter.  Thankfully, her loving and adoring aunts come to the rescue.  After one piece of Ella Mae's blueberry pie, it is evident that Ella not only has a gift for baking, but also perhaps a bit of magic.  Soon Ella Mae, her aunts and her mother are busy making preparations for Ella to open her own pie shop.  But before the doors open, disaster strikes!  Ella Mae's long time nemesis, Loralyn, is not happy about her return and she threatens Ella Mae.  Shortly after, Loralyn's wealthy elderly fiancé is murdered and Ella Mae's fingerprints are found on the rolling pin that supposedly dealt the fatal blow.  Can Ella Mae save her pie shop and clear her name? 

What I Liked:

• I am always a fan of of cozy mysteries that feature cute shops and sweets.  This one didn't disappoint with the charming pie shop and all the delicious discussions on all things pie.  Just reading all the passages about baking pies made my mouth water.  I loved that this one featured sweet and savory pies. I was completely charmed by the pie shop and wished that I could spend and afternoon in its cozy confines nibbling on pie, drinking coffee and reading.  What a perfect way to spend and afternoon! The best part, after spending the whole book drooling over all the pies, the author includes several recipes at the end. I am dying to try the Bourbon Chocolate Pecan Pie! If you are a fan of cozy mysteries that are all about food, definitely give this series a try!
• I was pleasantly surprised to find that this book had just a dash of magic. I wasn't expecting it, and so I was delighted when I discovered that Ella Mae had a rather unique magical gift.  Ella Mae is able to put her emotions into her pies as she bakes them.  For instance, her first pie when she returned home was baked while she was sad and grieving her failed marriage.  Thus, the pie ended up bringing forth the sadness of lost loves for her aunts while they ate the pie.  Later, people who consumed the pies feel joy and lust after eating her pies.  I truly loved this bit of magic, it reminded me a bit of a Sarah Addison Allen book, and Sarah is one of my favorite authors. 
• Ella Mae's aunts and mother also seem to have their own magical gifts, and I liked learning about each of their special talents.  The aunts were also fun, kind and very endearing.  I thought they were all terrific secondary characters.
• I was actually pleased that the romance didn't really develop in this one.  Ella Mae encounters her former childhood crush, and of course, the old feelings immediately reawaken as she becomes reacquainted with Hugh.  There is this scene in the pie shop that just simmers with sexual tension and lust, and it is incredibly romantic since the two are baking pies together.  That being said, the romance really doesn't move forward after that scene.  The reader is left with a just a sweet little taste of passion, but it doesn't develop into an entire dessert.  You are probably wondering why I liked that the romance was just a tease, and I will say because it felt realistic.  Ella Mae after discovering her husband was cheating on her is in no position to be jumping into another relationship.  So the slow steady building of a romance is very believable. 

And The Not So Much:

• While I completely charmed with all things relating to pies and the subtle hints of magic, I was disappointed with the murder mystery.  It disturbed the cozy feel good atmosphere that the author had established.  Then with any cozy mystery, the murder mystery and the way the main character always gets involved and manages to help solve the case is for me a bit unbelievable.  However, I realize that this a cozy mystery and that is what the genre is know for, so I was prepared for the unrealistic parts of the mystery.  What bothered me with this one is that it was entirely too predictable.  I kept looking for little clues or an unexpected big twist, but it never happens.  The author makes it clear from the beginning who the villains are and it is no surprise when the killer is revealed.  I was hoping for a bit more of a shock!
• Loralyn, the villainous arch nemesis, is so cruel and nasty that she comes across as being more like a cartoon villainess.  She is wicked personified and you hate her from the first scene.  I just thought her character was a little over the top and I didn't completely understand why Ella Mae let her in a sense get away with her actions.  I am guessing so she can stick around and continue to make Ella Mae's life miserable in the next book.
• There were several things that just didn't work in the mystery.  For instance, Ella Mae takes a letter from her husband and folds it in a boat and floats it down the river, only to return home a little later to find the letter recovered and shoved dry in her mail slot.  Granted, it is later revealed how the letter got there but I didn't buy it at all.  Another thing that bothered me was when Ella Mae confronted one of the suspects and that person gives the ridiculous bad guy reveal speech and then Ella Mae doesn't record it and leaves with no proof! Seriously! That was a real sticking point for me. 
• Finally, there were way too many unresolved story lines for my taste.  For instance, one of the accomplices pretty much gets away with their part in the crimes, there is no resolution with the fate of the boys' ranch and the horses, there is no discussion on stopping the horrible practices used by the horse breeders, I was never clear on the abilities of Ella Mae's mother and her aunts, and the marriage between Ella Mae and her former husband is still not ended.  I realize that many of these will be followed up, but I just felt that there should have been a few more tie offs of the existing story threads before the next book. At least it doesn't end with a cliffhanger.

Pies and Prejudice despite a few flaws was an entertaining and delicious little read.  I thoroughly loved all the tasty descriptions of pies and found myself absolutely craving pie while reading this one.  I was especially pleased to find the inclusion of several pie recipes at the end of the book which I cannot wait to try.  I was also charmed by the hints of magic.  Even though there were some areas that needed improvement, I can honestly say that I will be continuing the series because I just had fun with this one!

Favorite Quotations:

"My gut is telling me that this is where I'm supposed to be.  It's like I left my dreams in a jar on a shelf in my childhood closet, and I now I only need to reach up and open the lid so they can come true."

"We might rush into love, but none of us should be in a rush to fall out of it."

 

I borrowed a copy of this book.  All opinions are my own and I was not compensated for this review.

Thanks for stopping by! See you back tomorrow with another recipe from the Spring Carnival Food Booth!