November 29, 2013

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.

"Maybe it's the hair. You can't really see it under the plain black military scout's cap he's wearing this afternoon, but for the first time in half a decade or so, Eminem has reclaimed the Slim Shady platinum-blond look that he cast aside after beating a near-fatal pill addiction."

 ~ The Second Coming of Marshall Mathers in December 5, 2013 Issue of Rolling Stone

 

November 28, 2013

November eMags

I am Living La Vida NOOK with these November eMags:


Writer's Digest ~ Write Better

MacLife ~ Podcast Like The Pros

Rolling Stone ~ Lorde: The Rise of Pop's Edgiest Teen

XXL ~ The Highest-Selling Hip-Hop Album of All Time

Elle ~ The Women in Hollywood Issue

Marie Claire ~ 25-Page Guide to Rocking Your Career

Vogue ~ Flirty Florals for Date Night, Power Python for Office, All-American Weekend Chic

Vanity Fair ~ Jay-Z The New Chairman of the Board: From the Streets of Brooklyn to American Icon—His Most Revealing Interview Ever!

Ebony ~ Return of the 'Black Pack'

Essence ~ Kerry: New Married Life & What's Next For Olivia Pope + SCANDAL Sneak Peek

 

November 27, 2013

Disconnected

 
Twenty-eight-year-old Shannon Will had been in and out of rehab six times. But this time will be different. Shannon is making a clean break from her past starting with a new phone number. When Shannon's new phone starts receiving messages she isn't meant to see, she makes a decision whether to get involved or stay disconnected.

Suspense and redemption are packed into 32 pages of this eShort story. Download today for just $0.99 (yes, less than $1) for another good quick read by bestselling author Jennifer Weiner.

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

Title: Disconnected
Author: Jennifer Weiner
Published: October 2013
Pages: 32
Edition: Galley
Rating: ♥♥♥

 

November 26, 2013

Jay Z on Vanity Fair Cover

Jay Z The New Chairman of the Board: From the Streets of Brooklyn to American Icon—His Most Revealing Interview Ever!


"Everyone's supposed to stay in their lines and be neat. You're a rapper. You're supposed to rap, carry a boombox, wear chains, and go to the club—that's all you do. What are you doing collecting art? What are you talking about? Wait a minute, you're getting out of the zone. People hate when people cross lines." ~ Jay Z

Well said, Mr. Carter. He definitely crossed the lines defined for a rapper. Forty-three-year-old Shawn "Jay Z" Carter has broadened his career and life in a positive way. From drug dealer to rapper to entrepreneur, mogul, club owner, sports agent, art collector, clothing and watch designer, part owner of a basketball team, husband, father and more. The list of Mr. Carter's achievements and titles go on and on. And this is why I stan for Jay Z. In the November issue of Vanity Fair, Lisa Robinson writes a detailed cover article giving insight to this fascinating man.

"I'm beyond certain that this is why he still does it—knowing somewhere in this world someone is staring at the speakers in analytical mode." ~ Roots drummer Questlove

Click the title below to read the full article.

Title: Jay Z Has The Room
Author: Lisa Robinson ~ Vanity Fair
Published: November 2013 Issue
Pages: n/a
Edition: eMag
Rating: ♥♥♥♥♥

Stanningly,
 

Stars of Fifty Shades in Character

(Fifty Shades Movie)


In the November 22, 2013 issue of Entertainment Weekly magazine, Jamie Dornan (Christian Grey) and Dakota Johnson (Anastasia Steele) get ready to tie one on and start filming for the Fifty Shades of Grey movie. In the article, the stars discuss the pressure from fans, what drew them to the roles, and feelings about baring it all for the big screen. The rights were purchased in March of 2012 but the movie's release date has been pushed back again to February 2015.

*insert exaggerated eye roll here* Just scrap the movie.

Title: The Stars of Fifty Shades of Grey
Author: Entertainment Weekly
Published: November 22, 2013 Issue
Pages: n/a
Edition: eMag
Rating: ♥

 

November 24, 2013

Series Sunday: Takedown Twenty

(Stephanie Plum Series #20)


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. 

"I'm a big stupid failure!" ~ pg. 52

My Series Sunday pick is Takedown Twenty, the 20th book in the Stephanie Plum series by Janet Evanovich. New Jersey bounty hunter Stephanie Plum has to take down mob boss Uncle Sunny. Although he is charged with murder, the community is secretive about his whereabouts. Besides getting the run-around, Stephanie is also tasked with helping Ranger solve a bizarre death. They partner with Grandma Mazur to catch a killer, in between bingo games, at the senior citizen home.

St. Louis Post calls Stephanie Plum novels "laugh-out-loud funny." The Denver Post claims they are "brilliantly evocative." USA Today states they are "winning hearts." ARE WE READING THE SAME SERIES?!

*deep exhale* Why oh why do I keep reading the Stephanie Plum series? I might as well stop reading at this 20th installment and pick back up for the final book (if I am alive). I am convinced this series will outlast my life. It's never-freaking-ending! I am sick of the only black character Lulu stereotypically eating fried chicken and wearing kool-aid weave. There possibly can't be any more available cars for skips to blow up. The only surprise are random ass animals (this time, a giraffe named Kevin) showing up in the story. Let's face it, Plum fans; Morelli, Stephanie and Ranger will forever be a love triangle. I cannot continue riding out this series. My patience has been zapped by Grandma Mazur's stun gun. Throw me in a casket at the local Trenton funeral home. I am done.


Title: Takedown Twenty (Stephanie Plum Series)
Author: Janet Evanovich
Published: November 2013
Pages: 198
Edition: eBook
Rating: ♥♡

 

November 22, 2013

First Lines Friday BONUS


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 trudged aimlessly through the dark, empty streets of Washington, haunted by the memory of my son Ali telling me that the only way to kill a zombie was to destroy its brain."
 
 ~ Cross My Heart: FREE Preview of First 14 Chapters by James Patterson

 

November 21, 2013

Jimmy's Blues and Other Poems


 "defining and re-defining and re-aligning" ~ pg. 2

"They will learn to defer gratification and save up for things, like we do." ~ pg. 2

James Baldwin is an author of seven novels, several plays, essay collections and poems. His only book of poetry was published in 1983. Poet lovers, Baldwin fans, and word admirers, in just a few short months you will be graced with a new release to add to your collection. Jimmy's Blues and Other Poems includes nineteen previously published poems and six poems previously available in a limited-edition art book. James Baldwin's poetic words are honest, uplifting, bold and enlightening. His insights are as relevant today as they were over thirty years ago. Issues such as race,  The rhythm of James Baldwin's prose is what makes him great, and this new release a must-have. Set your calendar for the release of Jimmy's Blues and Other Poems on April 1, 2014.  

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

Title: Jimmy's Blues and Other Poems
Author: James Baldwin
Published: April 2014
Pages: 32
Edition: Galley
Rating: ♥♥♥♥♥

 

November 19, 2013

Guest Post: Christin Nix

Welcome to Literary Marie's Precision Reviews. Today we have a special guest reviewer, Christin Nix.



“A person who cannot forgive has forgotten how great a debt God has forgiven them.” – Pg. 120

As an avid reader of books that inspire change, growth, and self-reflection, I have never come across a book as life changing as The Bait of Satan.

The summer of 2006 was an especially difficult time for me. I was very uncertain and frustrated about the direction of my life - personally and professionally. Honestly, I was mad as hell at the world and everybody in it! Everywhere I turned, somebody was doing something to offend me. Collecting and storing away hurt was taking over my life. It was an uphill battle to get over the slightest offense. Reliving the anger of the person who cut me off in traffic – which happens often – was keeping me up at night. I would recall past arguments and become dismally overwhelmed with the negative emotions I experienced during the disagreement.

At a point of no return spiritually and emotionally, I quickly raised my hand during Sunday school when the minister offered The Bait of Satan as a gift.

Have you ever read a book that forced you to analyze your character? In the first few pages, The Bait of Satan had me searching my heart and questioning my biblical knowledge like never before. John Bevere does an in-depth character analysis of how the root of bitterness can grow into the ugly weed called unforgiveness – creating an abundant crop of anger and unhappiness.

He personally accounts unforgiveness, provides testimonials, and references biblical passages about how harboring offense and bitterness can gnaw at the very core of you, harden your heart, and block forgiveness from God for your sins. The book made me ashamed that I had the audacity to harbor unforgiveness towards people when God forgives me daily.

I always prided myself on forgiving people. However, the debris of past hurt was scattered all over my heart – and my life. The very things I thought I was free of were hiding and projecting themselves in every aspect of my life. The Bait of Satan helped me realize why I was so angry with everybody and everything.

This book helped me identify offenses that had set up shop in my heart and planted a seed of audacity to feel that it was okay to forgive – but not forget. I quickly realized that to be free from the hurt and the pain, I had to forgive and rely on my faith and God’s word to forget. Forgiving is easier for me today than it was seven years ago. I no longer rehearse past hurts as much as I used to. Liberated and empowered, my personal relationship with God strengthened after reading Bevere’s book. My outlook on life changed for the better. I revisit this devotional read sometimes when the thoughts of offense try to creep in or I’m having a hard time letting go of something.

Used as a supplemental study guide for ministries worldwide since its 2004 debut and reviewed thousands of times on websites such as Goodreads and Amazon, The Bait of Satan continues to spark conversation and transform people’s way of thinking – and forgiving. I highly recommend this book to anybody who is in search of freedom from offense and bitterness.

About Christin Nix:
Christin is a freelance writer living in Tennessee. Creating awareness and sharing thought-provoking points of view on life, fashion, products and community is the main objective of her writing. Christin currently reviews restaurants in the greater Nashville area for her monthly column, Flavor of the Month for The New American Times – the first in multicultural news. She holds a BS in Mass Communications from Middle Tennessee State University. Christin may be reached via email.

Title: The Bait of Satan: Living Free from the Deadly Trap of Offense
Author: John Bevere
Published: May 2004
Pages: 255
Rating: ♥♥♥♥♥


November 17, 2013

Series Sunday: Gone

(Detective Michael Bennett #6)


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 feds put us in witness protection, and I'd gone from NYPD Blue to Little House on the Prairie in no time flat." ~ pg. 21

My Series Sunday pick is Gone, the sixth book in the Detective Michael Bennett series by James Patterson. When we last read about Detective Mike Bennett and his family, they were being whisked off into Witness Protection. The whole family is moved to a safe house (cattle ranch) in California because Manuel Perrine, a dangerous drug cartel boss, is on the loose with a multimillion-dollar hit out on the Detective and his family. If you keep up with this series, you know the Detective cannot just sit still. But in no-man's land and for safety, he has no choice...until Perrine sparks war on U.S. soil and is responsible for mass murders and kidnappings. With his family's blessing, Detective Bennett comes out of hiding to catch the most dangerous criminal he's ever met.

Bookhearts, you know that James Patterson has been on my shit list for a while now. I thank goodness for the co-author of the Mike Bennett series because he is keeping it interesting and exempt from the recent JP curse of publishing mediocre-to-crap books. So thank you, Michael Ledwidge, for keeping this series afloat. I was not disappointed. In fact, I read it in one day. Yes, it was that good.

Action ✓ Suspense ✓ Family Drama ✓ Descriptive ✓ Available now!

Title: Gone
Author: James Patterson
Published: September 2013
Pages: 313
Edition: eBook
Rating: ♥♥♥♥♡

 

November 15, 2013

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.

"Well, I guess what the niggers is supposed to be doing is putting themselves in the path of that old sweet chariot and have it swing down and carry us home."

~ Jimmy's Blues and Other Poems by James Baldwin

PBS is featuring a very good mini-series titled The African Americans: Many Rivers to Cross with Henry Louis Gates, Jr. It airs Tuesdays (October 22-November 26) 8-9 p.m. EST. Watch videos and learn more information about it here.
 
 

November 14, 2013

The Husband's Secret


"Some secrets are meant to stay secret forever. Just ask Pandora." ~ pg. 337

Cecilia's husband wrote a letter to be opened after his death. It so happens that Cecilia stumbles across this letter while her husband is very much alive. Of course she's curious but when she mentions finding the letter to her husband, his first reaction is to ask whether she read it and insists it not be read yet. Hmmm... Little does Cecilia know that the letter's contents can destroy many lives.

This book is told in alternating viewpoints which was confusing for the first few chapters. I honestly just kept reading because I was curious about what was in the letter and how it would be handled. A central theme was loss and relationships. The author could have really developed these themes further enough to engage readers. But midway through, I still couldn't relate to any of the characters or care enough how things would end.

The Husband's Secret was our Chick Lit Book Club selection for October. Let's just say I enjoyed our group discussion more than reading the book itself. It didn't have a lasting effect. The book could've been about fifty pages shorter. Frankly, I do not understand how this book has over 11,000 ratings with an average of four stars. So obviously, I am in the minority when I say The Husband's Secret was just okay.

Title: The Husband's Secret
Author: Liane Moriarty
Published: July 2013
Pages: 352
Edition: eBook
Rating: ♥♥

 

November 13, 2013

Hush Little Baby


There are very few books that tug at my heart string while preventing me from turning the page. This debut novel, Hush Little Baby, by Suzanne Redfearn pulled me in from the opening pages. Domestic violence is a sensitive matter that should not be exaggerated, yet taken seriously. Fortunately, I am not a victim of domestic violence but am familiar with how it affects victims and brings shame to families. But this prior knowledge in no way prepared me for the story of Jillian Kane.

You never know what goes on behind closed doors. To outsiders, Jillian had a picture perfect life: happily married, successful career and two children. In reality, Jillian hid bruises inflicted by her abusive husband for the past nine years. Of course she desperately wanted to flee. But she feared for her life and the safety of her young children.

"If I stay, he will kill me. If I leave, he'll destroy Addie and Drew."

Hush Little Baby is what I call a reluctant read. The story is good but I was afraid of what I would read on the next page. Would the main character survive? Will she successfully escape the abuse? Will her children be okay? I just had so many questions that I was reluctant to read the answers to. I believe the author realized readers may have this same reaction and paced the events in the book well. I look forward to reading more of Suzanne Redfearn's writing. It was a bold move to tackle domestic violence in a debut book, and Suzanne pulled it off. Bookhearts, add Hush Little Baby to your reading lists or recommend to your book clubs.

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

Title: Hush Little Baby
Author: Suzanne Redfearn
Published: October 2013
Pages: 308
Edition: Galley
Rating: ♥♥♥♥♥

 

November 12, 2013

The First Phone Call from Heaven


"You have to start over. That's what they say. But life is not a board game, and losing a loved one is never really 'starting over.' More like 'continuing without.'" ~ pg. 19

As children we are taught we might go to heaven. But this fiction book shows heaven might come to us. A few residents of Coldwater, Michigan, are receiving calls every Friday from dead people. Presumably dead people that have gone on to heaven. Most of the callers have been deceased for years. Some believe it is a miracle; others are not so convinced.

The small town of Coldwater has been turned upside down with increased visitors, news media and traffic. Are the recipients of the calls from heaven "chosen" people? The idea seems ludicrous but the story itself drew me in. I was eager to keep reading and see if more characters received calls from heaven and to see how the story ended. Surely there must be an explanation and a damn good ending to the mystery, whether it was a miracle or a hoax.

Mitch Albom's new novel is like a story you've never read before. There are tidbits about Alexander Graham Bell's invention of the telephone that tie into the fictional story. Whatever your belief, readers will like The First Phone Call from Heaven.

"The end is not the end." ~ pg. 86

The First Phone Call from Heaven released today. Add it to your wish lists or order today. It is worth it! Then ask yourself, would you mind getting a phone call from heaven?

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

Title: The First Phone Call from Heaven
Author: Mitch Albom
Published: November 2013
Pages: 209
Edition: Galley
Rating: ♥♥♥♥♥

 

November 10, 2013

Series Sunday: L. Marie Adeline

(S.E.C.R.E.T. Series)


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 about L. Marie Adeline, author of the S.E.C.R.E.T.  erotic trilogy. Before your eyes roll, this trilogy is not your run-of-the-mill cookie-cutter erotica. The central theme is empowerment, self awareness and independence. Sex is just one aspect of the books. The main character takes baby steps toward ecstasy. In usual erotic plots a couple begins a sexual relationship first then falls in love. According to L. Marie Adeline, "love's an accidental outcome of great sex; it's not the goal."

Visit L. Marie Adeline's official website for more info, writing advice, interviews, excerpts and extras. Click here to read my review of S.E.C.R.E.T. and stay tuned to my review of S.E.C.R.E.T. Shared.

 

November 8, 2013

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.

"That last time. That red sky...
How does a book thief end up kneeling and howling and flanking by a man-made heap of ridiculous, greasy, cooked-up rubble?"
 
~ The Book Thief by Markus Zusak ~ In Movie Theaters TODAY

 

November 6, 2013

Rude Bitches Make Me Tired


"It's just that when you witness such acute douchery up close and personal, it shakes you to the core." ~ pg. 65

In true Celia Rivenbark fashion, this is not your regular etiquette book. The author makes it clear in the Foreword that this book does not cover traditional etiquette tips like using the right fork or saying please and thank you. Instead it covers office manners, how to deal with rude drivers and courtesy flushes. It is more like a keep-it-real-without-being-fucking-rude book. The questions in each chapter were gathered from informal interviews with friends, colleagues and strangers.

Celia Rivenbark's books are always so entertaining. The title alone caught my interest. Before diving into the chapters, I asked myself which bad behavior bugs me most. Then scanned the chapter titles and knew this was going to be a funny informative read. How could you not be interested in reading chapters with these titles:

  • Gym Etiquette: Or "Pardon Me, But Is This Your Ass Sweat?"
  • Baby Steps: Is She Pregnant or Is That a Booze-Inflated Liver? Hint: Don't Ask!
  • Road Sage: Accept the Things You Cannot Change, Like Idiot Drivers 

Rude Bitches Make Me Tired is a quick funny read. You will be entertained. You will laugh out loud. You may even use some of the etiquette tips. Dare I say that you may be a rude bitch. **gasp** I learned etiquette as a young girl but the subjects in this book are helpful to me as an adult. Because of this book, I already know how I'm going to address the next check-splitting situation. It is recommended you read Rude Bitches Make Me Tired. It is full of teachable-ass moments. Don't be rude; learn etiquette for the real world.

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

Title: Rude Bitches Make Me Tired
Author: Celia Rivenbark
Published: October 2013
Pages: 167
Edition: Galley
Rating: ♥♥♥♥♥

 

November 5, 2013

Taste of Insanity



"I'm just a stem worried about my petals." ~ pg. 282

Three women are handpicked for the Rose Program to be treated for different mental illnesses. The program has ran for fifteen years with nurses, a psychologist and a psychiatrist. Each woman has a designated spot in the program that is necessary for all to heal. The petal is a delicate woman that has been broken by traumatizing events. The stem is a strong women but on the verge of breaking. The thorn is a woman that may be a danger to herself or others.

Egypt is a privileged and spoiled woman whose life unravels after her nanny dies. Realizing her perfect life is based on lies causes a mental breakdown. Andrea is a young girl with dreams of escaping her abusive home life after high school graduation. She retreats into silence protecting the secret of how her mother was killed. Lastly, Blakely is a graduate student that ends up being charged for a crime she doesn't remember committing. These three women (assigned different parts of the rose) attend group and individual therapy sessions to make them whole.

Author Morenike' did a good job of showing character development. Although I did not relate to any of the three women, others may empathize with their individual situations. Through dialogue and background story, readers see how the women grow and become more trusting of each other to form a rose.

What I liked most about Taste of Insanity is the positive message about therapy. In some cultures, therapy is looked down upon and shameful. While the women in this book were reluctant to join the program at first, they quickly accepted that professional help is needed; some problems cannot be handled alone. The Rosa Lee Institute for Women and Children not only helped the patients but the staff as well. Thank you, Morenike', for writing such a great portrayal of a mental illness rehab program.

Don't judge a book by its cover. The cover of Taste of Insanity may look like a paranormal, vampire book with lots of blood and guts. But the plot is nowhere near it! While I do not like the cover because it is misleading, I recommend Taste of Insanity to readers who enjoy a story about women's progress and hope. ICYMI: Check out a guest post from author Morenike' here.

DISCLAIMER: This book 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: Taste of Insanity
Author: Morenike'
Published: March 2013
Pages: 295
Edition: eBook
Rating: ♥♥♥

 

November 3, 2013

Series Sunday: Destiny's Embrace

(Destiny #1)


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. 


"You've kicked me, thrown rocks at me, and all I want to do is slide you into my arms and kiss you until the mountains turn to dust." ~ pg. 97

My Series Sunday pick is Destiny's Embrace, the first book in the Destiny series by Beverly Jenkins. Mariah Cooper answers an advertisement for a housekeeper. She moves from Philadelphia to California to work on Destiny, the Yates' family ranch. Logan Yates may be handsome but he is the most arrogant man Mariah ever met. The stubborn Logan and headstrong Mariah butt heads so much, they may not realize their heart's desire.

I am so glad that author Beverly Jenkins and her editor broke away from older characters and created a new family. Not that I was sick of the old characters—by no means! Now I have a new family to care about.

What would a Beverly Jenkins book be without a bit of history? Destiny's Embrace brought to light the mythical Queen Calafia, the Gold Rush, and negro trail blazers in California. I really enjoyed learning a bit about the state of California's history and hope to learn more in the next two books of the Destiny series.

I am a loyal reader. When I begin a series, I usually stick with it until the end. When I read a couple good books from the same author, I usually read any new release of his/hers. And when the author is local? Oh, I am especially loyal! So Detroit's own Beverly Jenkins' is no exception. I heart her and the many series she writes. Her books are like a hot soul food Sunday dinner for my soul. If you are unfamiliar with Beverly Jenkins and want to learn more about her, visit www.beverlyjenkins.net

Title: Destiny's Embrace
Author: Beverly Jenkins
Published: January 2013
Pages: 211
Edition: eBook
Rating: ♥♥♥♥♥