September 30, 2012

Series Sunday: Darkest Fear


Series Sunday is a bookish meme hosted by Literary Marie of Precision Reviews. I encourage all of my fellow book bloggers and bookhearts to play along.
  • Read an installment of a series.
  • Share your review/recommendation below.
  • Include the title, author and series name.  

"The plot doth thicken." ~ pg. 81

My Series Sunday pick is Darkest Fear, the 7th book in the Myron Bolitar series by Harlan Coben. Thirty-four-year-old former basketball player and current sports agent Myron Bolitar has finally moved out of his parents house. But he's never been more worried about his father, who recently had a heart attack. At his most vulnerable, Myron's first serious girlfriend reappears. Emily Downing's 13-year-old dying son Jeremy needs a bone marrow transplant. She enlists the help of Myron to find the one mysterious donor that could save the boy's life. 

Harlan Coben is known for multiple plot twists in a fast paced story. Darkest Fear is a clear example of his signature writing style. It's not long before readers learn who is responsible for the demise of Myron's basketball career. Soon after, readers are shocked right along with Myron about what led to the birth of Jeremy Downing. Add to the plot a missing child, unsolved crimes, a disgraced newspaper reporter that may have plagiarized and a serial killer. Then we witness the sarcasm defense-mechanism Myron in the most important negotiation of his life.

What's a Bolitar novel without the appearance of partners Esperanza (the ex-wrestler and best friend) and Win (the financial guru by day, sexy vigilante by night). They support Myron in this seventh installment like never before. Even with straight to the point statements about Myron's own character. Win tells him, "You are the pitiful, needy type who feels incomplete without a steady girlfriend. Who better than a career woman who lives a thousand miles away?" Well said, Win. Well said.

How could you not be a fan of this mystery series? If you only thought of Myron Bolitar as a character before, now you think of him as a friend.

Title: Darkest Fear
Author: Harlan Coben
Published: May 2001
Pages: 262
Edition: eBook
Rating: ♥♥♥♥♥ 

 

September 28, 2012

First Lines Friday


First Lines Friday is a bookish meme hosted by Literary Marie of Precision Reviews. I encourage all of my fellow book bloggers and bookhearts to play along.
  • Grab your current read(s).
  • Share the first line(s).
  • Include the title and author.


"Starting to gasp as she climbed the increasingly steep slope of the tangled hiking trail, Mary Catherine was about to take a breather when the tree line opened. Glancing out over the open ridge, she immediately halted in her tracks, as what was left of her breath was suddenly taken."
 
~ I, Michael Bennett by James Patterson and Michael Ledwidge

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

 
"As far as Greta knew, there was nothing in the sky that night. Lying on her back in the bathroom on the cool of the white marble tiles, she heard the summons again."  

~ When It Happens to You by Molly Ringwald

 

September 26, 2012

Fifty Shades Magazine

 
British author E.L. James has started a female sexuality revolution. American women everywhere love the Fifty Shades trilogy and live the life. Yes, THAT life. Women are not afraid to be seen reading these books or talking about it publicly. Hardware stores sales have increased 10%; rope sells out the fastest. Women are spicing up their relationships in the bedroom. Steamier books are hitting the shelves. Men are looking for jeans that hang the C. Grey way. Actors and actresses are vying for the movie roles of Christian Grey and Anastasia Steele. And now, there is a Fifty Shades magazine. (High five, E.L. You better capitalize on this success!)

I noticed the magazine while on a random errand to CVS. It was in the magazine stand next to the register, proudly on display. I had to do a double take. The cashier laughed and said, "It's selling out fast. You should purchase your copy now." So I did.

The Fifty Shades of American Women Who Love the Book and Live the Life magazine includes poll results, a quiz, drink recipes, news on book 4, movie details, stories by real-life Anastasias and sex tips (including how to assume the spankee position). If you are a Fifty Shades fan or wonder what all the hype is about, pick up the magazine at your local CVS or Barnes & Noble. It retails for $6.99 and will display until October 29.

Title: Fifty Shades of American Women Who Love the Book and Live the Life
Publishing Co.: Topix Media Lab
Published: September/October 2012
Pages: 82
Edition: Magazine
Rating: ♥♥♥

 

September 25, 2012

An Accidental Affair

 
"Even mistakes have anniversaries." ~ pg. 47

When a video hits the Internet and goes viral, it's a wrap. Screenwriter James Thicke is married to movie actress Regina Baptiste. During the filming of his latest script starring his wife, a sex tape is released. Regina is caught in an accidental fuck with co-star Johnny Handsome. James's first reaction is to attack Johnny Handsome, then go on the run.

Under the identity of "Varg Veum," James lands in a ghetto apartment building full of characters and nosy neighbors. Mr. Chet Holder is an older man that immediately latches on to James like a schoolboy meeting the new kid in class. Sweet Isabel is a poised British woman that sees through the lies James tells. Patrice Evans is a hot adulteress mess. Another EJD character, Driver from Drive Me Crazy, plays a supporting role as the loyal employee of James.

The books spans a timeframe of two weeks. So much action happened in the two weeks that it seemed impossible to tie everything up in less than 400 pages. I am convinced there is a sequel in the works, or at least a cameo of James Thicke and Regina Baptiste in a new release.

Like other recent EJD books, it is full of descriptive paragraphs telling a dark story. Dickey delivers whether the scene is suspense, erotica or action. I could easily visualize the scenes that would sizzle on the big screen. Dickey's writing is character-driven and full of lust. I go through withdrawals while waiting for the next Dickey release. This is not his best written book. An Accidental Affair didn't leave me hungry for more but it certainly scratched the itch.

One of the things I look forward to in Dickey's books are the reconocimientos (English translation: recognitions). He thanks the faithful reader, references a conversation with Gideon, and leaves a space for thanking anyone he omitted. Yes, I write my own name in the space, in every book. I appreciate that he thanks Dutton, "the best publishing company in the world" and his new editor. (Great job editing An Accidental Affair, Denise Roy.) Dickey is, by far, my favorite author in cargo pants and long dreads. Keep living on the road and bringing us adventures through fiction.

Check out the video below of Eric Jerome Dickey explaining why a writer needs an editor. Then grab The Accidental Affair from your bookshelf, online bookstore or library and start reading!


Title: An Accidental Affair
Author: Eric Jerome Dickey
Published: April 2012
Pages: 396
Edition: Hardcover
Rating: ♥♥♥♥

 

September 23, 2012

Series Sunday: The Final Detail

Series Sunday is a bookish meme hosted by Literary Marie of Precision Reviews. I encourage all of my fellow book bloggers and bookhearts to play along.
  • Read an installment of a series.
  • Share your review/recommendation below.
  • Include the title, author and series name.  

My Series Sunday pick is The Final Detail, the 6th book in the Myron Bolitar series by Harlan Coben. No one knows better than agent Myron Bolitar that life is hard, cruel and random. And this time, the mystery hits a little too close to home. Myron's business colleague and best friend, Esperanza, has been arrested for allegedly murdering an MB SportsReps client. Myron's immediate reaction is to jump in and start his own investigation. He is determined to clear Esperanza's name. But the more secrets he unveils and the closer he comes to proving Esperanza's innocence, the more guilty Myron himself looks.

The Final Detail is the perfect recipe for a mystery. It's thrilling, suspenseful, and involves murder. Harlan Coben has won for the best mystery series ever! Each book draws me into the series and life of Myron Bolitar and supporting characters Esperanza, Big Cyndi and Win. Let me tell you—I finished this book in ONE day. Yes, within 24 hours. It was that good. If you haven't yet started this series, grab a YooHoo and get comfortable. You are guaranteed to get lost in this fiction story.

Title: The Final Detail
Author: Harlan Coben
Published: November 2008
Pages: 274
Edition: eBook
Rating: ♥♥♥♥

 

September 21, 2012

First Lines Friday

First Lines Friday is a bookish meme hosted by Literary Marie of Precision Reviews. I encourage all of my fellow book bloggers and bookhearts to play along.
  • Grab your current read(s).
  • Share the first line(s).
  • Include the title and author.

"I dropped the .38 on the passenger seat, then sped down a damp Sunset Boulevard. Johnny Handsome was bleeding, limping, running, fleeing, his trek looking like a scene from a horror film."
 
  ~ An Accidental Affair by Eric Jerome Dickey

 

September 20, 2012

Happy Born Day, Chickadee

Happy Born Day to my Chickadee! 
She is the reason I am an avid reader. 
We cannot function without fiction. 
Chickadee, thank you for being my reading buddy.


 

September 19, 2012

Lit Tidbits


  • With the increased popularity of bookless libraries and eBooks, could the end of printed books be near? EEK!
  • A sequel to Stephen King's The Shining is set to be published in September 2013.
  • Chelsea Handler's 50 Shades of Chartreuse: This Time It's Personal is set to be published in October 2013.
  • Actor Kevin Costner has signed a book deal with Atria Books for an adventure series.
  • It's never too late to write a book. The 65-year-old music artist Carlos Santana has signed a book deal with Little, Brown and Co. to write a memoir.
  • Olympic gold medal gymnast Gabby Douglas is writing a memoir. Grace, Gold and Glory: My Leap of Faith is scheduled for release in December. What an inspirational title. 
  • Monica Lewinsky is FINALLY writing a tell-all book. Is anyone still interested in the graphic details of her relationship with President Bill Clinton?
  • Tip for Authors Requesting Reviews: Please provide an accurate summary of your book(s), follow the blogger's review guidelines, personalize and proofread the e-mail. Your request is usually the blogger's first impression. Make it a good one!

 

Where We Belong


"Life is too short for unexceptional wine. Unexceptional anything really." ~ pg. 8

Marian Caldwell has the perfect successful life. She is a 36-year-old television producer living in New York, and in a loving relationship leading to marriage. Kirby Rose is an 18-year-old high school senior figuring out where she fits in and if she will ever belong anywhere. In one night, these women's lives are shaken. Kirby appears on Marian's doorstep revealing Marian's nearly two-decade-long secret. The two women go on a journey to discover what home, love and family really is.

There is a reason Where We Belong has 350+ positive reviews. And I'm adding one more. Emily Giffin has a talent for bringing realistic characters to life. I empathize with Kirby and Marian like they are friends of mine. Giffin's descriptive words help me visualize the scenes. The story lines tug at my heart strings while questioning my morals. I ask myself aloud, "Whose side are you on?"

Where We Belong will make you shed at least one tear. Then you'll call your Mom to thank her and bond. And if your Mom is no longer with us, you will think of sweet memories. Like the author herself, you will go back to read old journals. This book will also remind you where you belong. At least these are the things I did while reading it.

Emily Giffin calls this book a masterpiece and her best book yet. I don't think it is her best written book to date, but it deserves 5 hearts. Check out the interview below of "Giffin's Gift" interview on CBS This Morning with Erica Hill and Gayle King.

Where We Belong is also available as an audiobook from Macmillan Audio. Listen to the following clip of Chapter 1 http://media.us.macmillan.com/video/olmk/macmillanaudio/WhereWeBelong.mp3 then add Where We Belong to your reading list.


Title:  Where We Belong
Author: Emily Giffin
Published: July 2012
Pages: 300
Edition: eBook
Rating: ♥♥♥♥♥
 
 

September 18, 2012

Lip Service

 
"Certain eastern cultures see sexuality not as a fall from grace but as a way to ascend to a state of grace, to a state of self-realization." ~ pg. 33

Lip Service is a sensual erotic book by international bestselling author M.J. Rose. Main character Julia Sterling is a married 38-year-old woman living in Manhattan, working as a journalist. To the public eye, she has a decent career and is loyal to her stepson, friends and husband of 14 years. Secretly, she is an accomplice to sexual refunctioning—helping people to realize their full sexual potential. Julia accepted an opportunity to co-author a book on sexual role-playing therapy. This out-of-the-ordinary writing job introduces her to the daring world of phone sex. It stirs up passion and fantasies in Julia that were long-forgotten.

The story takes place in 1996 and was originally self-published in 1999. In fact, M.J. Rose's Lip Service made history as the first self-published eBook. Atria Books chose the perfect time to re-release Lip Service, 13 years later at the peak of the erotic fiction Fifty Shades era. This sexual coming-of-age (pun intended) book is ideal for book clubs and mature women. M.J. Rose's writing is descriptive and enticing. There is an unexpected twist and ending that will satisfy readers.

DISCLAIMER: This book was received directly from the publisher for review purposes only. In no way does it influence my review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.

Title: Lip Service
Author: M.J. Rose
Published: 1999; August 2012
Pages: 322
Edition: Galley
Rating: ♥♥♥♥


 

September 17, 2012

US vs. UK

Everyone knows I'm completely obsessed with the UK. "US vs. UK" was created by Jenny from Wondrous Reads and it compares covers from books released in the two countries.

US
UK
Today's comparison is I, Michael Bennett by James Patterson and Michael Ledwidge. The US cover (top) has a red background with a shadow of a running man. The UK cover (bottom) is more detailed with a blue background, man as the focus, and a skyscraper building in the background. Today's winner is a no-brainer; UK wins!

Total: US 16, UK 15

Which cover do you favor?

 

September 14, 2012

First Lines Friday

First Lines Friday is a bookish meme hosted by Literary Marie of Precision Reviews. I encourage all of my fellow book bloggers and bookhearts to play along.
  • Grab your current read(s).
  • Share the first line(s).
  • Include the title and author.



The NOOK is loaded with September eMags. Featured stories are:

"Best Dresses, Jackets, Ideas, Shoes & Bags" ~ Elle

"Think You Know Lady Gaga? Think Again" ~ Vogue

"Cool Looks For Work, Sexy Styles For Night" ~ Marie Claire

"6 Steps to a Submission-Ready Novel" ~ The Writer

"Fall Trends Worth Trying" ~ Real Simple

"80 Mountain Lion Tips" ~ MacLife

"America's Hottest Mom: Beyonce" ~ US Weekly

"Greed & Debt: True Story of Mitt Romney & Bain Capital" ~ Rolling Stone

"Whitney Houston's Final Project: Sparkle" ~ Ebony

"7 Days of Hot Styles For Relaxed or Natural Hair" ~ Essence
 

 

September 11, 2012

E-Learning 101


Remember the old days of traditional learning from a thick heavy textbook and taking notes in a black and white composition notebook on college-ruled paper? Well times have changed. Technology has evolved and now many students learn through online courses and learning management systems such as Blackboard or Moodle.

This short eBook covers areas that adult learners struggle with most. There are easy action steps you can apply to your own unique situation. E-Learning 101 addresses relevant topics such as how to handle deadlines, how to ask for an extension, how to become comfortable with the learning system, how to arrange your schedule and even how to get involved in discussion boards.

Dr. Liz Hardy, the E-Learning Specialist, has helped thousands of online learners develop new skills in communication and writing, business and management, and e-learning design. The main goal of this manual is to take the worry out of e-learning. After you complete the manual, I am sure your e-learning worries will be gone. You will find that e-learning can be fun! (So is this eBook with pictures of dogs, and talking dog testimonials on the related website where you can find studying tips, mini lectures and further information.)

Disclaimer: This eBook was received directly from the author for review purposes only. In no way does it influence my review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.

Title: E-Learning 101
Author: Dr. Liz Hardy
Published: June 2012
Pages: 34
Edition: eBook
Rating: ♥♥♥

 

September 9, 2012

Series Sunday: One False Move

Series Sunday is a bookish meme hosted by Literary Marie of Precision Reviews. I encourage all of my fellow book bloggers and bookhearts to play along.
  • Read an installment of a series.
  • Share your review/recommendation below.
  • Include the title, author and series name.  

My Series Sunday pick is One False Move, the 5th book in the Myron Bolitar series by Harlan Coben. Sports agent Myron Bolitar is hired to protect Brenda Slaughter, a beautiful basketball star. Her mother disappeared twenty years ago, and now her father is missing too. First the clothes were gone, then the money was gone. 

If you're a Bolitar fan, you know that he is more than just a sports agent. And you know he's a sympathetic person who loves to help and save his clients. You should also be familiar with his team: Esperanza, the former pro-wrestler working at MB Sports Rep as assistant and Windsor "Win" Horne Lockwood, the mysterious bachelor business partner. However, this is the first time that Myron has more than a vested professional interest. He has a personal interest with Brenda. This makes the story very intense. People are willing to die and be killed to protect secrets.

Myron's next move may always be his last. But it's a series, so I know he will stay alive. But the author, Harlan Coben, does a great job of building suspense. For one second, I even questioned whether Myron would make it out alive. This installment of the series is emotional, heartbreaking and spellbinding. It stands out as one of the best books in the Myron Bolitar series.

Author: Harlan Coben
Published: August 2009
Pages: 259
Edition: eBook
Rating: ♥♥♥♥♥