August 1, 2016
Over Easy Book Review
In Over Easy, when Allie meets the man of her dreams, she thinks this is it. All of a sudden her whole life is turned upside down in a strange turn of events.
About Over Easy
Allie Parker’s had enough. Just because she’s a dog groomer, her overachieving family of doctors and lawyers treats her like a child. She’s convinced that a successful husband is all she needs to change their attitudes. So when she and her friends come up with a brilliant new way to meet eligible men, Allie squeezes into her sister’s stylish clothes and sneaks into continental breakfast at an upscale hotel to find herself the perfect guy.
Before Allie has taken her last bite of syrup-laden waffle, she’s met the man of her dreams. But what she doesn’t know is that he’s a jewel thief who mistakenly thinks she’s his contact—and so does everyone else who’s after his stash of diamonds.
Suddenly Allie’s world is crazily upended. And as she scrambles to prove her innocence and get back to her old life, she discovers happily ever after sneaks up when you least expect it.
My Thoughts
Over Easy is a fun, romantic comedy that will take you through some crazy moments and moments of pure joy and throughout it all, Over Easy is one book you just can’t put down.
Over Easy is so well written, Pamela writes as though you are an active member in the story. As if you are having a conversation with Allie, your best friend, as she relays the story of her life. It made me laugh, made me worried for her and really helped to connect me with her character.
The plot is one you have never read before, which I loved! Who would have thought – finding love at the continental breakfast?? But it was this crazy idea that drags Allie and her friends through quite the ordeal! Allie, who can’t bear the thought of showing up at a family event without a partner in toe (I think so many of us could relate to this!) decides to follow her friends plan to meet a man at the continental breakfast. The man she meets? A jewel thief! At the time, she has no idea but it is later when she begins to be chased by his contacts that his true identity is revealed and leaves Allie desperate for help. In this time of desperation, a special person steps up to help her. I can’t reveal too much but it was an awesome turn of events!
Over Easy is a fun, romantic comedy that you will love from start to finish, never wanting to put it down because you just can’t wait to see what Allie gets up to next!
You can purchase a copy of the book on Amazon and Barnes & Noble.
Rating: 4.5/5
About the Author
Pamela Ford is the award-winning author of contemporary and historical romance. She grew up watching old movies, blissfully sighing over the romance; and reading sci-fi and adventure novels, vicariously living the action. The combination probably explains why the books she writes are romantic, happily-ever-afters with plenty of plot – and often lots of laughter.
After graduating from college with a degree in Advertising, Pam merrily set off to earn a living, searching for that perfect career as she became a graphic designer, print buyer, pantyhose sales rep, public relations specialist, copywriter, freelance writer – and finally author. Pam has won numerous awards including the Booksellers Best, the Laurel Wreath, and a gold medal IPPY in the Independent Book Publisher Awards. She is a Kindle Book Awards finalist and a two-time Golden Heart Finalist. She lives in Wisconsin where she is working on her next novel.
You can connect with her on her website, Twitter and Facebook.
The Giveaway!
Disclosure: I received a digital copy of this book in order to facilitate this review. All opinions expressed are my own.
July 22, 2016
A Beauty Refined Book Review
In A Beauty Refined, what does it take to reveal the true beauty of a hidden gem?
About A Beauty Refined
Phoebe Von Bergen, the daughter of a German count, is excited to visit America for the first time while her father purchases sapphires in Helena, Montana. Little does she know, however, that her father’s intentions–both for her and the gemstones–are not what she thinks.
Ian Harper, a lapidary working in Helena, finds the dignified young woman staying at the Broadwater Hotel more than a little intriguing. Yet the more he gets to know her, the more he realizes that her family story is based on a lie–a lie she has no knowledge of. And Ian believes he knows the only path that will lead her to freedom.
Meeting Ian has changed everything for Phoebe, and she begins to consider staying in America, regardless of her father’s plans. But she may not be prepared for the unexpected danger that results when her family’s deception begins to unravel.
My Thoughts
A beautiful story of a quiet, young lady whose tragic loss of her Mother at a young age has shaped her and her attitudes. The loss of her Mother had left her alone to her Father, and while you can see he loves – his bullying ways and mean manners to others has carved out a very different personality for Phoebe. It hurt to watch her in the beginning when she would rather be quiet then voice her opinions and to never ever show emotion. I can’t even begin to imagine how it would feel not to show emotions – I am a highly emotional person!
When she meets Ian by chance in the hotel’s pool, her life changes course drastically. Her Father has held back the truth from Phoebe since she was a young child and this caused her so much heartbreak, when she realizes the truth we see a new Phoebe. A strong, willful young woman who is ready to fight for what she knows is right.
While a budding romance begins between Ian and Phoebe, I love the story of Phoebe, her Father and her Mother and how it is tied into the romance. This plot actually takes centre stage in my mind and I loved it. It gave the story that much more to it.
A beautiful, well written story of heartbreak, promises, hope and faith. I loved watching Phoebe grow and although the ending has some sadness it is also full of hope for a special future. While this is book two, you will have no problem picking up the story and characters. A great read!
You can find more reviews on the Litfuse Blog Tour page. You can purchase a copy of the book Litfuse Blog Tour.
Rating: 4/5
About the Author
Tracie Peterson is the bestselling, award-winning author of more than one hundred books. Tracie also teaches writing workshops at a variety of conferences on subjects such as inspirational romance and historical research. She and her family live in Montana.
Disclosure: I received a digital copy of this book in order to facilitate this review. All opinions expressed are my own.
July 21, 2016
A Beauty Refined’ Blog Tour, Giveaway, and Facebook Party
Little does Phoebe know that her father’s plans—for the sapphires and his daughter—are not what they seem. If you love historical fiction, romance, and adventure, don’t miss Tracie Peterson’s A Beauty Refined. When Phoebe meets Ian, everything changes. Yet the more he gets to know her, the more he realizes that her family story is based on a lie—a lie she has no knowledge of. And Ian believes he knows the only path that will lead her to freedom.
Join Tracie in celebrating the release of A Beauty Refined by entering to win her Precious Gems giveaway (details below) and by attending her author chat party on August 9!
One grand prize winner will receive:
- One copy of A Beauty Refined
- A sapphire jewelry set
Enter today by clicking the icon below. But hurry, the giveaway ends on 8/9. The winner will be announced at A Beauty Refined Facebook party. RSVP for a chance to connect with Tracie and fellow fans of historical fiction, as well as for a chance to win other prizes!
RSVP today and spread the word—tell your friends about the giveaway via FACEBOOK, TWITTER, or PINTEREST and increase your chances of winning. Hope to see you on the 9th!
July 18, 2016
Celebrate Canada All Month Long #StreamTeam
I am very proud to live in Canada, we have been blessed to live in a country where we have freedom of speech, religion and a host of other rights that we tend to take for granted. Canadians have contributed a lot of amazing things to the world, from the discovery of insulin and stem cells to inventing basketball. What I am always surprised with is how many people don’t realize how much Canada has given to the world and how truly beautiful our country is.
Canadians have made a huge contribution to the entertainment industry from animation to production to actors. It is time to celebrate and educate our children on these achievements (yes Canada is much more than Timmies and hockey!). Here are the top entertainment picks sorted by production, animation and actors.
Canadian Animation Picks
- Justin Time is a Canadian Animation on Netflix, where Justin and his imaginary friends travel the world learning about nature and other cultures (win win for parents right?).
- The Magic School Bus is a Canadian- American animation that I am sure many of you, even adults, grew up with. How can you not love Ms. Frizzle and her crazy adventures in the Magic School Bus. There is so much for your little one to learn about in this great series.
Produced By Canadian Studios
- Super Why is all about Wyatt and the Super Readers who solve problems by consulting classical stories.
- Caillou, now I know not many people are a fan of him but I love this show as it teaches children about sharing, life skills and playing fair.
Filmed in Canada
- Shadowhunters has to be one of my favourite new series (I am very impatiently waiting for the start of the second season). It is based on the book series but they do a fantastic job bringing the story to life and giving their own spin to this series.
- Degrassi: Next Class was filmed in Toronto and is the next generation of teens as they navigate life and highschool.
- Diary of A Wimpy Kid: Dog Days was filmed in Vancouver (who knew!) and is still after all this time a family favourite in our house. We loved the book series and they did a fantastic job bringing the books to life.
- Some Assembly Required is filmed in Vancouver and is a huge hit for pre-teens. The series is about a fourteen year old who takes ownership of a toy shop. My kids love it but I am personally not a huge fan.
Canadians have a lot to be proud of and it is important to show our children the great achievements their fellow Canadians are making. Buy Canadian products, support our Canadian teams and choose Canadian films. Show that Canadian pride! What are your favourite Canadian films?
Disclosure: I am a #StreamTeam member and receive perks associated with this affilitation. All opinions expressed are my own.
July 18, 2016
Party With A Plan Spotlight
Finally! Here is a proven, practical way to drink alcohol and lower your risk for problems in Party With A Plan.
About Party With A Plan
Up until now, there have been two primary messages when it comes to drinking alcohol. One is “just say no,” which for the majority of the population is not an option. The other is to “drink responsibly.” But what does that mean? If you ask five random people to define responsible drinking, you will most likely get five completely different answers. This invalidates the term because it can be defined in so many different ways. Party With A Plan gives a concise and research based formula that teaches people how to drink and lower their risk of negative consqeuences. It’s like creating a speed limit for drinking. If you stick to the speed limit, your chance of problems is minimal. However, the more you go over the speed limit, and the more often you go over the speed limit, the more you put yourself and others at risk. This book is long overdue!
Book Trailer
About the Author
Randy Haveson knows addiction. As an alcoholic in long-term recovery (May, 1984), he has dedicated his life to helping others make more empowered choices in their lives. He is a 25 year veteran in the substance abuse field with extensive experience as a counselor, Director of Health & Alcohol Education at highly accredited universities, and speaker on over 100 campuses, speaking about harm reduction, self-esteem, leadership, and supporting students in recovery. You can connect with Randy on his website, Twitter and Facebook.
Author Interview: Tips for Parents
What tips do you give parents on how to teach their kids about alcohol?
There are so many, but I can give you a few tips that are a good place to start. One, when it comes to drinking, it’s important to be a good role model for your kids. If they see parents use alcohol to “unwind” after a long day or they watch mom pour her “never ending glass of wine” while making and eating dinner, they will see alcohol as a coping mechanism. No matter what parents say, it will be what they do that will make the biggest impact.
That makes sense. Isn’t it a good idea to teach your kids how to use alcohol by giving them some when they’re young?
Actually, no. Studies show that the earlier people start drinking, the more potential they have for developing a problem later in life. I hear people say, “But in Italy they drink at a young age.” And my answer is, “We’re not in Italy.” Different cultures have different standards when it comes to drinking. Comparing one to another does not work. In Italy and France, alcohol is seen as a food. In the US, Canada, and most other countries, alcohol is used for entertainment. When a culture sees it as a food, there are significantly less problems associated with drinking. In countries where it is viewed as entertainment, there are many more problems.
What should parents look for if they suspect their child is using drugs or drinking?
First of all, ask them. See how defensive they get. The more defensive, the more concern. Some other signs are: a change in friends, dropping grades, disinterest in things that used to interest them, excessive coughing or sniffling (like they always have a cold), more secretive, and less eye contact. Search their room for paraphernalia (the sock drawer or a shoe box in the closet are common hiding spots). If you suspect something, check it out. Don’t think, “Maybe the problem will go away.” It won’t.
Where can parents get more information on this topic?
I list resources on my website and I am creating a new video series for parents that will give them more tips on how to lower the risk of their kids getting in trouble with alcohol or other drugs. And my newest book, Party with a Plan-The Women’s Edition, was written to address issues that are specific to women when it comes to alcohol.
The Giveaway!
