Do They All Sleep?

 Amazing children's book 

Summary

Whether you laze, doze, snuggle, cuddle, nap or kip, you need to rest for
a bit, but do animals ever sleep? The book comes with fun questions for 
each animal and an option for the toddler to fill in about their favourite way
to sleep.  

My Review

Wow! I really enjoyed this book, although it's for children, it can be a deeper
lesson for every one of us. 

I liked the way the questions were asked and how the book was written.
I absolutely loved the drawings and the layout as well!

I would recommend this book to all parents who want to read for their little
ones.

I give with lots of pleasure a 5 star rating to this amazing children's book! 

The author

Srividhya is an entrepreneur and writer. She always had a passion for
storytelling and started to write when she was eleven. 

Her early success came when one of her dramas got selected by the
"All India Radio". She spent years reading and writing stories, giving her 
characters a bright sparkle!

She is a chartered accountant and spent 15 years in corporate jobs. 
Later, she founded and managed a fashion e-commerce company.

Preview: This amazing book is available on Amazon from
August 18th. 2021. 

Booksirens

I received a free copy via the author and Booksirens in return for my review.
I want to thank them very much for this fantastic book. 

Bookreview: Master & Marquis

"What a beautiful love story!"

Summary

Declan Dalton, the Marquis of Barrington, fell in love with Lady Elisa
Remington when they were childhood companions running over the 
countryside.

He traveled to the continent, fought for his country, managed his estates,
and tried, in vain to stay as far away from her as possible. Because Elisa
is worthy so much more than a man like him, a man with dark, hidden,
dangerous desires, a man with a secret room in his noble estate....

But when a war injury sends him home a decorated hero, Declan cannot
keep his distance from Lady Elisa. He offers for her hand, intent on
protecting her from the erotic passions surging within him - passions far
more potent when she's near. 

My review

I read the second book of the series before without having read the first one,
 but I like the love story, so I'm going to read the first book too. 

However this book really has very strong characters and a well out- spitted
plot, which I enjoyed. It took place in the 19th. century, so it was absolutely
a splendid historical romance. 

I would say: don't doubt and read it! I like to give a 4* rating for this 
amazing historical romance. 

The Author

Gemma Snow loves high heat, high adventures and high expectations for her
heroes! Her stories are set in the past and present, from the glittering streets
of Paris to cowboy-rich Triple Diamond Ranch in Wolf Creek, Montana. 

Visit: https://gemmasnow.com/ to learn more about the author. 

BookSirens

I received a free copy via BookSirens. Thank you very much!

Master & Marquis is available on Amazon.com in Kindle and in 
Paperback. 

Bookreview: Smart 10-Minute Productivity Habits

How to Boost Your Productivity and Achieve
Your Goals

" A very practical book."

Summary

Do you often marvel at how a day can slip by without your having 
accomplished anything worthwhile? Do you fret at how you never 
seem to achieve the targets that you have set and wonder at how you 
can never get down to crossing off the items on your to-do lists? 

In Smart 10-Minute Productivity Habits the author shares a collection
of 48 actionable tips and strategies to transform your unproductive day
into one where you successfully checked off items on your to-do lists to
accomplish objectives that are meaningful to you. 

My review

I always try to do a lot of things during a day, but I sometimes never get
finished a job. That's why I wanted to know more about Time Management.

"Smart 10-Minute Productivity Habits - How to Boost Productivity and
Achieve Your Goals" is a very practical book with clear, well written chapters.

It isn't boring and it is inspirational. I'm happy I could read this book because
I learned lots of tricks and tips. Perhaps I'm going to adapt them in my daily
life.

I would recommend this book to all who want to know more about 
Time Management. I give this book with pleasure a 5 * rating.

The Author

Smart 10-minute Productivity Habits - How to Boost Your Productivity 
and Achieve Your Goals is written by Joann Lindsey.

BookSirens

I received a free copy of this book via BookSirens. I want to thank them for this
excellent reading chance. 

Bookreview : The Nomadic Art of Budget Travel

Slow down, Spend less, See More

Travel Deep for Cheap

Summary

If you've ever dreamed of traveling the world, visiting the Acropolis in Greece, 
the cityscapes of Tokyo, or the jungles of Peru - this is the book for you. 

Kayla Kurin guides readers through the art of travel without draining your
bank account. 

Flipping to a travel magazine, it would be easy to assume that travel takes a
lot of money. That luxury resorts and expensive tours are the only way to see
the world. But those publications are missing out on the joys of cheap travel.

My Review

If you want to know more tips and tricks about traveling for a long
period, then you should read this fantastic book. It personally interested
me very much.

It was written in clear, short, chapters and explained well. It also read

very fluently. However I was a bit disappointed that it was too generally.
I'd like to read something more specific. However I really liked the
anecdotes of the author. 

However it is a nice book to read for travel lovers (just as me). I want
to give a 4 * rating.

The Author

Kayla Kurin is a health, travel and fiction writer from Toronto. She has
traveled, lived, and worked in over 50 countries and loves writing about
her adventures in real and made-up worlds. Kayla will attempt to swim in
any body of water she sees and has never met a 1-euro bottle of wine she
didn't like. 

BookSirens

I received a free copy via Booksirens in return of my honest review.

Thank you for this reading chance! 

Bookreview: Strange Nights, and Some Days Too

Why'll you love Japan, for a year 

written by Ken Seeroi

Fantastic guide to Japan

Summary

With wry humour, deep cultural insight and an impressive capacity for

malt liquor and black pepper potato chips, the author takes you through
real-life tales of women in short skirts, men with no teeth, a friend's 
suicide, a fight with a yakuza, and a maze of smokey back-alley bars 
throughout Japan. 

My Review

This book is wonderfully written in short chapters with a great sense
of humour. It's about incidents and misadventures in Japan.

I enjoyed the stories (which made me laugh) and the clear writing
style.

I would recommend this book for everyone who is interested in 
Japan. I want to give this book with lots of pleasure a 5 star rating.

The author

One afternoon, Ken Seeroi left his successful banking career and
boarded a plane for Tokyo with two suitcases and a phrasebook.

He spent a decade learning the language and living a Japanese
lifestyle among local people, finally realizing his dream of life
in Japan.

Ken Seeroi has now lived in Japan for 12 years, in seven
different cities while pursuing a wide variety of jobs.
He is well-renowned in the nation as an educator and karaoke
singer. 

BookSirens

I received a free copy by BookSirens to make an honest review. Thank
you very much for giving me this chance! 

Source picture: Book Cover 

Bookreview: The Serpent and the Eagle

"Wonderful historical fiction"  

Summary

Tenochtitlan, 1519, pale -skinned people have arrived on the coast of
One World. They hail from a far away land called Spain and fight for
the mysterious Hernando Cortés. To confront Cortés' army would be
dangerous, but inaction may be even more dangerous. 

The Mexica are the most powerful people in all the One World and
regard the uncouth interlopers with a mixture of curiosity and 

distrust....

My Review

History, especially royal history, always has fascinated me.

This book is about the Spanish conquest of native Mexica, mostly
known as the Aztecs.

The writing of this book is clear, structured and the characters are
detailed as well. 

It also must be clear that the author knows a lot about this subject
which is interesting to read.

I would recommend this book to people who love historical fiction.

Therefore I would like to give a five star rating. 

The Author

Ever since Edward Rickford was young, he has enjoyed writing. 
College gave him the chance to combine his interest in history with his
passion for storytelling and he mainly writes historical fiction now.

He won several Prizes for his writings. More interested, check his
site on this link. 

BookSirens

I've received a free copy from BookSirens to make an honest review of
the book. Thank you very much for this great opportunity. 

Source picture: Book cover 

Bookreview: 20/20 Vision

 written by Alexandra Tendler

"Nice poems."

Summary

20/20 Vision is a collection of poetry about love, travel and self growth.
It's a love poem to the past, a sealed letter to the future and a reflection on
this moment now and the beautiful unpredictability of what could be. 

Especially during the uncertainty of your 20's, these poems touch on 
all the heartache, self discovery, and exploraratory desires to see the 
world and find your niche. The path ahead or behind may not always
be clear, but there is always beauty to be found if we look hard enough.

It's what makes each of our perspectives uniquely 20/20

My Review

I really enjoyed reading 20/20 Vision. The writing style and the poems
were wonderful. However in this small book, there were many subjects
and there was a bit a lack of structure. 

Therefore I would like to give the book a 4 star rating. 

BookSirens

First of all: I've received a free copy by BookSirens. Thank you very much! 

Source picture: book covers

Bookreview: True Crime Chronicles

True Crime Chronicles 

is written by Mike Rothmiller

The interesting other part of history: crimes!

Summary

What do Jack the Ripper, Jesse James, The Texas Servant Girl Annihilator,
Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid and Jack the Kisser have in
common?

They were all subjects of true crime newspaper reporting in the 1800's. And
now these stories and that of many others are brought together in their original
form in a two-volume set: True Crime Chronicles. 

My Review

History, especially Royal History, always has fascinated me very much. 
But murder and crime also is a part of the society, sadly.

So, it was very interesting to read all these stories with a fresh look
from the author.

I learned many things from this book, reading it was very easy and
interesting!

I would recommend True Crime Chronicles to people who are interested
in all aspects of history. I want to give a 5 star rating! 

The Author

Mike Rothmiller is a New York Times Bestselling Author, nominee for the
Pulitzer Prize, historian, former cop and Army medic. He's also served as a
TV reporter, an award winning documentary producer and television host
for ESPN, PBS and other international television markets. He's written and
produced over 25 television documentaries, numerous TV and radio ads and
has authored movie scripts. 

He's authored 23 books. Readers of his books include; the former First Lady
Laura Bush and even Queen Elizabeth II. 

BookSirens

I received an advance copy for free by BookSirens and I'm leaving this
review voluntarily. Thank you for giving me this excellent reading 
chance! 

Bookreview: Frank Cullotta's Greatest (Kitchen) Hits

 A gangster's Cookbook

written by Frank Cullotta and Dennis N. Griffin 

"Very interesting recepies"

Summary

“I have known Frank Cullotta since he served as a technical consultant
for the movie ‘Casino.’ Frank’s reputation is primarily that of a master
criminal and an enforcer for Chicago Outfit mobster Tony Spilotro.
While that is true, he also had a softer side that few people knew about.
He loved to cook. In ‘Frank Cullotta’s Greatest (Kitchen) Hits,’ Frank
swaps his gun and fedora for an apron and chef’s hat and shares the
recipes for some of his favorite dishes. If you like to prepare and eat
delicious meals, this is the book for you.” – 
Nick Pileggi, screenwriter and author of "Casino"

Frank Cullotta was best known for his exploits as an associate of the
Chicago Outfit and his role as Tony Spilotro’s enforcer and street lieutenant
in Las Vegas. However, he had another interest besides crime.
He loved to cook. In this book he shares some of his favorite recipes
for your eating pleasure. Although Frank died on August 20, 2020,
his memory will live on every time you prepare one of these lip-smacking dishes.

"I first met Frank in 2005. Over the years we became close friends and
co-authored a total of four books, including the bestseller The
Rise and Fall of a 'Casino' Mobster. As Frank's health failed,
I promised him that I'd see the cookbook through to publication even
if he couldn't be with me. I know that Frank is pleased that our final joint
project is now a reality." - Dennis N. Griffin

My Review

Reviewing a cookbook with Italian dishes looked great! And indeed
the recepies, the pictures were well described.They gave me inspiration
to try them out. I think the ingredients are easy to find. I missed some
structure at the end of the book for example no list of all the ingredients.

Nevertheless this cookbook is a must read for all lovers of the Italian
cuisine! I give it with lots of pleasure a 4 star rating on 5 and I want
to read more books of Dennis N. Griffin.

The Author

Dennis N. Griffin was born in Rome, New York in 1945. He joined the U. S.
Navy in 1962. After being honorably discharged in 1966, he returned to
central New York. He is married and has four adult children.

Mr. Griffin began his career in investigations and law enforcement in
1975, when Pinkerton, Inc. hired ...him as a private investigator.
His duties included insurance fraud, missing persons, financial
and background investigations, as well as undercover operations.

In 1979 the Madison County, New York Department of Social Services
hired him as a Senior Child Support Investigator. He was responsible
for locating and conducting financial investigations of persons failing
to provide legally mandated child support.

In 1981 he joined the Madison County Sheriff's Department, and attained
the rank of sergeant. He was a shift supervisor and public information officer.
During the same time-period, he moonlighted as a part time patrolman for
the Village of Chittenango Police Department.

In 1987 Mr. Griffin was hired by the New York State Department of
Health as Director of Investigations, Wadsworth Center. The primary
mission of his unit was to investigate violations of the Public Health Law
relating to clinical and environmental laboratories, and health care fraud.
He was responsible for hiring and training investigators, case assignments
and general supervision. In addition, he personally handled the more difficult
and complex investigations. Many of these cases received both local and national
media attention. He retired in 1995.

In 1996, Dennis was supposed to be retired, but decided to tell the story of
what he learned while investigating the operation of a medical examiner's office.
It was an eye-opening experience and he felt compelled to share it with others.
Dennis eventually authored a fictionalized account called, The Morgue.
However, readers didn't believe anything in the book could actually happen,
but they liked the story and his style; rough edges and all.
Six more mystery/thriller fictions followed.

The author is an active member of the Police Writers Association.
He attended Onondaga County Community College, Mohawk Valley
Community College and the Central New York Regional Academy for
Police Training. He has three other novels published through 1stBooks.
The first, The Morgue, was published 1999. Red Gold, followed in 2000.

In January 2002, his writing career was at a crossroads. Would he continue
the uphill struggle for recognition in a genre with a number of well-established
authors? Or was it time to find another hobby? The question was answered at
a writers' conference when a lady suggested Dennis try his hand at police-related
non-fiction. That was the turning point. He began writing Policing Las Vegas,
the history of law enforcement in Las Vegas and Clark County from 1905 thru 2004.
Policing was released in April 2005.

Writing that book opened his eyes to some interesting things about Las Vegas
and the mob that he wanted to explore; leading to his second non-fiction book,
The Battle for Las Vegas, the story of the Vegas reign of Chicago mob enforcer
Tony Spilotro. In the movie Casino, actor Joe Pesci played a character based
on Spilotro. The Battle for Las Vegas was released on July 1, 2006.

In writing that book, Dennis relied heavily on resources such as retired FBI
agents and police detectives from that era, and through his conversations with
career criminal and former Spilotro lieutenant Frank Cullotta. Those conversations
led to a third Vegas-based non-fiction, CULLOTTA - The Life of a Chicago
Criminal, Las Vegas Mobster, and Government Witness, released nationally
in July 2007.

Since that time, Dennis has written several books on the true stories of the
Las Vegas mob and the era in which they reigned.

In 2007 Denny began hosting his own Internet radio show on Blog Talk Radio.

BookSirens

I received an advance copy for free via BookSirens and I'm leaving 
this review voluntarily.

Source picture: Bookcover

Bookreview: Lamlash Street

Lamlash Street: A Portrait of 1960's Post-War
London through One Family's story

written by J.M. Phillips

"A very nice trip to memory lane" 

Summary

Explore a world that can't be visited anymore-South East London, 1963.
On Lamlash Street, Cockney families have more life and character than money,
living among the bombed out and condemned buildings. Post WWII London
will evolve swiftly into the era of The Beatles, Twiggy, and modern, swinging London.

Experience the lively true story of a girl on her way to being a young woman,
coming-of-age at a moment in London's history unlike any other.
Jill Phillips tries to capture her first kiss while navigating a world turning
upside down and the trauma that her parents and uncle experienced during the war.

It's a time when a local factory shutting down could mean more than just job loss.
As families are torn apart, they rely on questionable yet quirky neighbors and find
inventive ways to survive-like pay cigarette machines in the house and Christmas
presents "special ordered" for a fraction of the cost.

Seen-but-not-heard by the adults in her life, Jill looks for young love and
how to define herself. Stories of Nazi aircraft on the walk home from school,
watching Doodle bugs (flying bombs) drop on London from rooftop perches,
and her uncle's many unsettling stories of war as young merchant mariner give
her a unique lens of the world and what a better future could look like for her family.

Lamlash Street: A Portrait of 1960's Post-War London Through One Family's Story
is a heartfelt and funny historical memoir. If you like non-stereotypical women
characters, working-class endurance, and a biography about rallying from abundant
loss, then you'll adore Jill Phillips' moving recollection.

Buy Lamlash Street to take an emotional and touching trip down memory lane today!

My Review

Readers of my blog(s) already know that I do like (royal) history. However London
also attracks me very much. 

It was a nice trip to the author's memory lane and the book was written very clearly.

However I missed some structure in the story. 

Nevertheless, it is a wonderful story. That's why I want to give a 4 star on 5 rating. 

The Author

J.M. Phillips is an author and retired Occupational Therapist. Motivated
by the retelling of family stories, she wrote Lamlash Street, which is about
navigating family life in London after World War II. She is a storyteller with
a passion to inspire families to connect through the telling of their past.

Growing up in the UK, J.M. emigrated to Canada after working in a London
solicitor’s office for a few years. She spent 30 years working as an
Occupational Therapist and Hospital manager before retiring.

Rather than slowing down the pace of life as she neared retirement,
J.M. refocused her efforts enjoying each day with a zest for life.
 A technology and sci-fi fan with a thrill-seeking streak, she’s been
cave swimming in Mexico and hopes to swim with dolphins.

During one of her many trips to visit her family in Bexleyheath,
she was inspired to capture their memories of a way of life that is
cherished by many. Pulling from her uncle’s World War II stories and
her memories of her young life in the 1960’s, she aims to carry on his
legacy with her books.

She spent many years working in health care. She is currently splitting
her time between the UK and Canada, maintaining close contacts with
family, and at the same time discovering more fascinating family stories.
Learn more at her website on this link. 

BookSirens

I received an advance copy for free via BookSirens. I'm leaving this review
voluntarily. Thank you very much for giving me the chance for reading this
memoir. 

Lamlash Street is published by 'Red Damask Publishing' in 2020. It is 
available on Amazon.com in Kindle version and in paperback. 

Source picture: Book cover

Bookreview: From Wheels To Wellness

 

From Wheels To Wellness

Tips and Tricks for a healthy Van Lifestyle 

Written by Kristine Hudson 

"Useful information!"

Summary

First, you commit to van life.

Then, you pick out your vehicle and start the process of creating
your ultimate home on wheels. You put the key in the ignition, wave good-bye
to stationary life, and head on down the road.

You may not be sure what to pack for your new lifestyle. After all, who knows
 what lies ahead in destinations unknown?

Author Kristine Hudson is a voice of reason from the unknown.
As a "been there, done that" van dweller, she has some notes to share
with those who are drawn to the nomadic lifestyle. 

Before you hit the road, think about the following:

✓ Have you considered what you'll do if you get sick on the road?

✓ Do you know what to pack in case of emergencies?

✓ What thought have you given towards meals?

✓ Are you ready to face the barrage of new insects, pollens, wildlife,
 and scenarios that await you?

If you're worried there's something you haven't thought of when preparing for
life on the road... If you're not sure what to do about doctor's appointments,
dental care, and prescriptions while you're away from home... 

If you think you'll just "take care of it" whenever an emergency pops up...

This book will help you gain a firm grasp of all the good intentions
that are left behind when we head out for a rugged and glorious van lifestyle. 
From figuring out how to receive basic preventive care on the road, to food prep
and storage, and everything in between, Kristine Hudson provides a comprehensive
look at all of the things about health and wellness that are quickly forgotten in the
quest for true freedom. Whether you're just starting to question how you'll maintain
your physique on the road, or starting to fret about maintaining a chronic condition
while you're on the roam, this book provides hints and tips hand-selected from the
author and legions of other van lifers.

Filled with true stories and supportive tricks from wanderers with decades of
combined experience, this book won't replace your first-aid kit...but it will help you
remember to pack one in the first place.

My Review

I must admit, I love to read travel stories and memoirs as well. 
Traveling with a Van sounds so exiting. However Kristine Hudson's
books show that one long Van travel took lots of preparation work!

She gave many helpful hints for the life on board of a Van. However
it is USA oriented, so for me personally less interesting. But it is 
still very nice to read!

This is a must read for permanent USA travelers and people who 
want to live on the road. For the helpful guide and her writing style,
I would like to give a 4 star rating on 5!

The author

For Kristine Hudson and her husband Brad, the adventure never ends!
If you enjoyed reading Ms. Hudson's insights on preparing for a life
on the road in "How to Live the Dream: Things Every Van Lifer Needs
to Know," you'll love catching up with her on her new Facebook page.

For ladies who are curious about the daily ins and outs of being a Boss
Lady after reading "How to Choose the Ultimate Side-Hustle: Making
Money and Being Your Own Boss," Ms. Hudson shares her regular
experiences with keeping herself organized while maintaining her
writing and editing career.

It may seem that waking up every day in a new place and having a
successful,  satisfying career may be mutually exclusive. "Like"
and "Follow"

BookSirens

I received an advance copy for free by BookSirens and I'm leaving
this review voluntarily. Thank you very much for giving me this chance!

Picture: Book Cover 

Bookreview: Plant-Based Healthy Eating

Mouth-watering Vegan Meal Plans on a Budget less
than 25 Minutes per Meal. 

Written by Jasmin Walters (2020)

"Excellent guide for a vegan lifestyle"

Summary

It’s not easy, going for a meal plan that you will strictly have to follow
after all everything you do in life only truly matters when you overtake
the setbacks that come hanging to its edges, where we will help you
become more motivated, better equipped to handle every challenge
that comes your way with confidence and of course the bottom line is
that you’ll end up with mind-blowing and mouth-watering recipes to try
out thorough the course of the meals you have daily, not just that thought.
You’ll finally start to see your weight loss dreams come to life without any
harm to your body, but rattler naturally.

My Review

In Europe, Vegan or Vegan meals are less familiar than in the USA.
However a change is coming. 

People are more aware of their health. They know that food is important
for being healthy. 

Therefore it is very interesting to read books as these. Plant-Based Healthy
Eating has brought what I expected of the book and it gives me new inspiration
for healthy vegan meals. 

The book was written very good with clear chapters, paragraphs and even
the letter type was suitable. There also were lovely pictures and the dishes all
looked amazing!

I would certainly recommend this book because it's very interesting for 
food lovers and for people who wanted to know more about vegan meals. 

I give this book a 5 star rating! 

The Author

Jasmin Walters, an inspiring lady with a PhD in Medical Nutrition & Therapy,
based in the USA. Jasmin leads in her field with nutritional health, dietary advice,
natural remedies, healing techniques and alternative medicines. Jasmin's ability
to advocate in natural health, therapies, remedies, dietary balances and healing
has been producing for more than two decades. Jasmin has spent more than
twenty years researching natural approaches to health, healthy living and healing.
Jasmin shares her knowledge, experiences & research to the rest of the world by
guiding people how to live healthier lifestyles. Jasmin in her journeys has also
been an enthusiast of delicious food with homemade recipes. Some of Jasmin's
favorite styles are Plant Based Vegan, Mediterranean and many more. Jasmin's
love for cooking healthy also stemmed from her childhood, her mom whom
she is so thankful to. Jasmin's inspiration for writing came from her experiences
from childhood and developed a keen interest from her father's study of
Nutrition in Humans. 

BookSirens

I received an advance review copy for free, by BookSirens, 

and I'm leaving this review voluntarily. So thank you very much.

Source picture: Book cover

Bookreview: The Heretics' Revenge

The Heretics' Revenge

A final search for the Holy Grail

written by Martin Barrett

"A Nice story with exciting jumps in time"

Condemned as heretics by the Catholic Church, the 13th-century Cathars are persecuted, 

tortured, and finally burned alive at Montségur. But according to legend they hide their 

riches  and relic beyond the castle walls on the eve of their demise.

In the 1930s, Otto Rahn dedicates his life to recovering the long forgotten relic, 

and coerced by Himmler joins the SS to find the ‘Holy Grail’ for the Nazis. Exposed 

as both Jewish and homosexual, Rahn commits suicide. But not before he entrusts his 

notes to his niece. Notes that have never been found.

Seeking a challenge after retiring early, businessman Steve Jackson embarks on a 

modern-day search for the fabled Cathar cache. With French girlfriend, 

Manon Lubin, they locate Rahn’s abandoned clues in the Black Forest. 

The notes become a key to locating a religious discovery even greater than the 

Dead Sea Scrolls, and unleash a 750-year old time-capsule of revenge that threatens 

to shake the Church of Rome to its foundations.

The massacre of the Cathars and the true story of Otto Rahn are interweaved and then 

continued with the fictional search for the treasure and relic. Rich in historical detail, 

this fascinating and absorbing story, set in France and London, climaxes with a 

thought-provoking and controversial conclusion that brings The Heretics’ Revenge.

My review

History and especially royal history always had fascinated me a lot. That's why I 
decided to read the book "The Heretics' Revenge" written by Martin Barrett.

It is a very interesting story with a good mix of history and fiction, which I like.
I immediately was into the story due to the strong characters.

Some chapters made a jump forwards in time and this was mentioned well except
with the present time. So, It was a bit confused, but due to the new characters, I
realized soon, the story was in another time, the present.

I enjoyed reading the book "The Heretics' Revenge" because the way of living of
the characters was described very well.

Although the plot "looking for the Holy Grail" isn't that original, the way Martin
Barrett told the story - in a novel - transformed it into a real treasure. 

I certainly will recommend this book to others who are interested in historical
fiction. 
So, I give this book a 4 star on 5 rating. 

BookSirens

I received an advance review copy for free by BookSirens and I am
leaving this review voluntarily. 

Source picture: Book cover

Bookreview: Glory Bishop

written by Deborah L.King

Summary

Glory Bishop lives her life in pieces. At work and with her friends, she reads novels, speaks her mind, and enjoys slow dances and stolen kisses with her boyfriend, JT. But at home, Glory follows strict rules and second-guesses every step. Though she dreams of going to college and living like a normal teenage girl, her abusive mother has other ideas.

When JT leaves to join the navy, Glory is left alone and heartsick. The preacher’s son, Malcolm Porter, begins to shower her with lavish gifts, and her mother pushes Glory to accept his advances. Glory is torn between waiting for true love with JT or giving in to the overzealous Malcolm.

When a stranger attacks Glory on the street, Malcolm steps in to rescue her, and her interest in him deepens. But the closer she gets to him, the more controlling he becomes. Glory must eventually decide whether to rely on others or to be her own saviour.

My Review

What an amazing book! I really enjoyed reading it! I was a bit scared due to the Bible phrases at the beginning of the book, but when I started reading, I learned that 'Glory Bishop' had fantastic strong characters. 'Glory Bishop' is well drawn and has an excellent dialogue. 

I certainly would recommend 'Glory Bishop' for all who like to read novels and stories about a young woman, who grows up. Therefore I give this book a 5 stars on 5 rating. 

The author

Deborah King has been a writer and storyteller her whole life. She published her first short story when she was seven years old. When she’s not writing, Deborah enjoys cartoons, cooking, photography, and Star Trek. Born and raised in Chicago, Deborah has managed to achieve all of her childhood dreams and still lives in the area with her husband and two youngest children. According to her daughter, she has “literally aced her life!”

I really enjoyed Glory Bishop written by Deborah King. It was the first book of this splendid author, I read and I hope there will follow more amazing books of her. 

BookSirens 

I received an advanced copy for free, by BookSirens, and I'm leaving this review voluntarily. 

Source picture: Book cover 

Bookreview: How To Live The Dream

How To Live The Dream 

Things every van lifer needs to know 

written by Kristine Hudson 

Summary

Are you bored with living in the city, going to work, and never seeing anything outside of your house or office?  Do you feel like the walls are closing in on you?  Do you finally want to say “goodbye” to the city streets and “hello” to the open road?

Everywhere on social media, you see breath-taking pictures of people who have launched themselves into van living with complete success.  They seem to live the ultimate lives of freedom, rebellion, and careless, peaceful existence.  Are you ready to join them?

Van Life is a lifestyle associated with freedom.  With four wheels on the road at all times, you can go anywhere and do anything.  No more stuffy conference rooms.  No more waiting.  And in many cases, no idea what to do next!

In her debut publication, Kristine Hudson guides her audience from the wishful thinking stages, through the various levels of preparation required to put the key in the ignition and leave your “stationary home” behind.

Here are just a few of the things that “Every Van Lifer Needs to Know:”

•Whether van life is right for you- a look into balancing the reality with the dream

•Creating an environment of health and wellness no matter where you go

•How to choose your new home… and how to make it your new haven on wheels

•What you’ll need to prepare for life on the road

•How to plan your new lifestyle and secrets to transitioning to road life

•Storage solutions to maximize your space

•Planning a budget ...and much, much more!

Take a second to imagine how badly you want to hit the road… then think of how ready you feel!  No matter how deeply you wish to delve into the #vanlife lifestyle, author Kristine Hudson has tips that will help you become more prepared and confident about your plans.  If you’re ready to leave behind all of the noise, clutter, and frustrations of the stationary lifestyle and explore the country from a van, skoolie, or RV, click to add How to Live the Dream: Things Every Van Lifer Needs to Know to your cart now!

My Review

When I saw this book on the BookSirens website, I immediately wanted to read the book due to the
subject. However perhaps, I expected too much from "How To Live The Dream", so it hasn't brought me what I expected. 

However the book was written very clear and in short chapters, which I really like! I learned more about the nomadic lifestyle in the 21st. century. 

The author and the book inspired me because it was clearly stated that dreams should not be followed just like that. Dreams do have a cost and everything has to be planned extremely well! 

"How To Live The Dream" is special because due to the clearly defined chapters. It also has beautiful pictures and an amazing cover. I certainly would recommend "How To Live The Dream - Things Every Van Lifer Needs To know". That's why I give this book a 4 star on 5 rating. 

The author

For Kristine Hudson and her husband Brad, the adventure never ends! If you enjoyed reading Ms. Hudson’s insights on preparing for a life on the road in “How to Live the Dream: Things Every Van Lifer Needs to Know,” you’ll love catching up with her on her new Facebook page.

For ladies who are curious about the daily ins and outs of being a Boss Lady after reading “How to Choose the Ultimate Side-Hustle: Making Money and Being Your Own Boss,” Ms. Hudson shares her regular experiences with keeping herself organized while maintaining her writing and editing career.

It may seem that waking up every day in a new place and having a successful, satisfying career may be mutually exclusive. “Like” and “Follow” Kristine Hudson on Facebook to see her in action… and to catch a glimpse of her sometimes hectic, but always compelling, life on the road!

Kristine Hudson’s Van Life: https://www.facebook.com/eternalvantrip/

BookSirens

I received an advanced copy for free thanks to BookSirens. I'm leaving this review voluntarily. 

Source picture: Book Cover 

Bookreview: Forget Russia

Forget Russia 

written by L.Bordetsky-Williams 

"A fascinating Story"

"Your problem is you have a Russian soul," Anna's mother tells her. In 1980, Anna is a naïve UConn senior studying abroad in Moscow at the height of the Cold War-and a second-generation Russian Jew raised on a calamitous family history of abandonment, Czarist-era pogroms, and Soviet-style terror. As Anna dodges date rapists, KGB agents, and smooth-talking black marketeers while navigating an alien culture for the first time, she must come to terms with the aspects of the past that haunt her own life. With its intricate insight into the everyday rhythms of an almost forgotten way of life in Brezhnev's Soviet Union, Forget Russia is a disquieting multi-generational epic about coming of age, forgotten history, and the loss of innocence in all of its forms.

Review

Russia and its history always have fascinated me very much. That's why
I really wanted to read this novel. 

'Forget Russia' is written very fluently and has strong characters. It is nice to 
feel their emotions and the story - 

about how choices from the past have influences on your present -  

it will touch you very strongly! The book is written with lots of dialogues
that's why I give it a 4.5 rating on 5.

If you like stories about Russia and its history, don't hesitate to buy this book,
it's certainly worth to read. 

The Author

L. Bordetsky-Williams (aka Lisa Williams) grew up in New York City. She is also the author
of The Artist as Outsider in the Novels of Toni Morrison and Virginia Woolf
(Greenwood Press, 2000) and has been inspired by both of these towering authors. 

In 2005, she published a book of creative nonfiction, Letters to
Virginia Woolf (Hamilton Books). 

She is also a poet and has published three poetry chapbooks: 

Sky Studies (Finishing Line Press), 

The Eighth Phrase (Porkbelly Press), 

and In the Early Morning Calling (Finishing Line Press). 

She is a Professor of English and Literary Studies at  Ramapo College of New Jersey. 

She also has a site, check this link. 

BookSirens

I received an advanced copy for free by BookSirens and I'm leaving this
review voluntarily. So, thank you very much for giving me this
splendid opportunity. 

Source picture: Book Cover 

Bookreview: Let the Willows Weep

"A fantastic book, which made  me very emotional"

“Sometimes life is just like paper wings. Fragile, easily torn apart, and often there are too many pieces to pick up.”

In the tradition of the best Southern fiction—from Bastard Out of Carolina to Where the Crawdads Sing—Sherry Parnell’s Let the Willows Weep is a heart-wrenching portrait of hardscrabble, humble lives in rural America. A keenly-observed and unflinching look at the life of Birddog Harlin as she grows up in her dysfunctional family, this novel explores the line between destruction and redemption.

The Review

"Let the Willows Weep" was very emotional for me and together with the main character I fell a lot of feelings from anger to empathy and from love to hurt. It always very nice that a book can give you so much strong emotion, though it was a sad story. I'm sure - from now on - I 'll never look the same at a willow tree!

"Let the Willows Weep" was excellent written and it fell almost like I was reading poetry. So, beautiful! 

The author, Sherry Parnell did a great job. Check also her wonderful site on this link. I'm looking forward to read more of this author! 

On Goodreads, the book has a 3.95 on 5 rating, but I give her with lots of pleasure a 5 star rating!

BookSirens

I received an advanced copy for free, and I'm leaving this review voluntarily. Thank you BookSirens for giving me this great opportunity! 

Source picture: Book cover

Under a skellig sky

 Under a skellig sky written by Brenda Joy

‘For those homesick and longing for home, Maeve Binchy was the answer. Now Breda Joy brings Irish life alive with her zany characters and Irishisms. A delicious peep behind the scenes of the Ireland of a Thousand Welcomes.’ GEMMA JACKSON

Nomadic Carol O’Connell’s return to Glenosheen, overlooking the Skellig islands, is turning into one more in a series of half-baked decisions that pass for her life.

She searches for peace to recover from a broken relationship but her sleepy valley homeplace has woken up to Star Wars fever and mass tourism.

An experiment with Airbnb in her mother’s old farm guesthouse on the ‘Wet Atlantic Way’, a calamitous reunion with an ex and the rescue of a troubled friend sets her tumbling through the year.

As she follows her dream to become a successful artist before she hits forty, one of the bright lights under the ever-changing Skellig sky is a mystery New Zealand guest called Oliver. But tensions rise with the arrival of an eccentric, bingo-loving B&B inspector.

Friendship and the promise of a new love sustain Carol when she unwittingly introduces danger to the valley.

The review

"Under a skellig sky" is a nice story about green Ireland, its landscapes and its people. 

The book is written as the people speak in Ireland.

However "Under a skellig sky" is a very easy reading book. It also is a enjoyable story
so, I want to read more from this author. 

I give "Under a skellig sky" a 4 star rating (on 5). 

The author

Breda Joy works as a journalist with Kerry’s Eye newspaper and, in her free time, writes fiction and poetry. She holds a M Phil in Creative Writing from Trinity College Dublin. 

BookSirens

I received an advanced copy for free by BookSirens , and I'm leaving this review voluntarily. So thank you for this great opportunity!