Category: iRead tour

August 5, 2016

Fresh Brewed Book Review

In Fresh Brewed, Breanna is on a relaxing vacation by the ocean. When she makes up that she is Ethan’s girlfriend and he arrives, she thinks she has gotten everything she ever wished for but is it really?

About Fresh Brewed

Breanna Mitchell is on her way to a relaxing vacation at the ocean. Maybe she’ll even have a beachside fling to help her get over a recent breakup.

But when a tropical storm makes her destination hotel uninhabitable, a chance encounter at continental breakfast delivers a fabulous option—with a catch. She and her friends can stay at a privately-owned, three-story oceanfront home—if she pretends to be the girlfriend of the owner’s heartbreaker grandson, Ethan. Since he won’t even be there, how hard could it be?

Everything is going swimmingly until Bree drinks too much wine and regales the family with romantic tales about her relationship with Ethan. His adorable brother Adam gets suspicious. His marriage-minded grandma gets engagement fever. The beautiful woman next door gets teary-eyed.

And then, Ethan unexpectedly arrives. Suddenly Bree is about to get everything she’s ever wished for—but is it what she really wants?

My Thoughts

Fresh Brewed is the hilarious second installment in The Continental Breakfast Club series. In this book, we find Bree and her friends travelling to the ocean to get away from it all, men, relationships and life in general. A tropical storm almost stops their plans in their tracks unless Bree can pretend to be the girlfriend of Ethan, a total handsome, heart breaker who has never held a serious relationship. Bonus, he isn’t even in the country, so how hard can it be?

That is when it all goes south! Poor Bree drinks too much on the first night (this was too funny!) and instead of helping her own cause may have set engagement fever in the home and causes some suspicion with Ethan’s brother, Adam. On the second day, Bree can’t help but feel the attraction to Adam but she has to learn to hide this attraction even though as the reader you can see that Adam would be just perfect for her, which is so difficult to read through when you want the best for her. Chaos really rains freely when Ethan arrives! Bree just wasn’t ready for her “perfect” boyfriend to appear in real life and neither is Ethan! You can just begin to imagine the hilarious scenes that follow, each one even better then the last one!

Fresh Brewed is as well written, if not even more so, then the Over Easy. I felt immediately drawn into the story and part of it. It is written in a personal way, almost like a conversation with your best friend. You can’t help but love Bree! She is just such a normal girl who gets caught up in a plan that you have never heard of before. You will love each moment in the second installment in The Continental Breakfast Club series.

You can purchase a copy of this book on Amazon.

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 through her website, Twitter and Facebook.

The Giveaway

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Disclosure: I received a digital copy of this book in order to facilitate this review. All opinions expressed are my own.

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

You can connect with her on her website, Twitter and Facebook.

The Giveaway!

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Disclosure: I received a digital copy of this book in order to facilitate this review. 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!

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July 12, 2016

The Great Disneyland Scavenger Hunt Book Spotlight

See the enchantment of the Disneyland resort in a whole new way with “The Great Disneyland Scavenger Hunt.” From Main Street U.S.A. to New Orleans Square, Walt Disney lovingly designed every detail to immerse guests in the magic of his theme parks.

About The Great Disneyland Scavenger Hunt Book

See Disneyland and Disney’s California Adventure through new eyes when you discover fantasy, thrills, and dreams around every turn. Whether you’re perusing the shops, waiting in line, or riding attractions, there’s plenty to uncover for even the most knowledgeable Disney fan.

If this is your first visit or your five hundredth, you will discover something new with “The Great Disneyland Scavenger Hunt.”

You can buy this book on Amazon, Books-A-Million, Barnes & Noble, Powell’s Books and Chapters.

About the Author

Catherine Olen has enjoyed a love affair with the magic of the Disney theme parks for as long as she can remember, counting herself among Disneyland passholders for the last twenty-five years. Previously, Olen owned and operated Hollywood Grave Hunter and is the proud author of The Final Curtain: Celebrity Deaths and The Upside of Undertaking, chronicling her previous career experiences. She has been a correspondent to Entertainment Tonight (US and France), The Biography Channel, Reelz Network, and the Mark & Brian radio show. You can connect with her on her website, Twitter and Facebook.

Author Interview

What made you decide to write The Great Disneyland Scavenger Hunt?

As an annual pass holder for over twenty-five years, I’ve observed thousands of guests coming through the gates and missing so much of the subtle magic Disneyland has to offer. I wanted people to experience Disneyland through my eyes and see some of the details Walt Disney so lovingly included in his theme park.

What is your favorite attraction at Disneyland or Disney’s California Adventure?

My favorite attractions are always changing with the time of year or my journey as an annual pass holder. The Haunted Mansion is a classic Disneyland attraction and I love the change for Halloween to The Nightmare Before Christmas theme. The annual visit from Jack Skellington is something I look forward to every fall. While writing The Great Disneyland Scavenger Hunt, I found new favorites like Splash Mountain and Indiana Jones and the Temple of the Forbidden Eye.

There are many books out about Disney, what makes yours different?

While there have been books written about the trivia surrounding Disney or the history of Disney, With The Great Disneyland Scavenger Hunt, I’ve written about the details surround the guests. No matter which of the themed lands you are exploring, there is something new to find or rediscover no matter how many times you’ve been within the gates of Disneyland.

What does The Great Disneyland Scavenger Hunt offer for families with small children?

When writing The Great Disneyland Scavenger Hunt, I made sure to create questions for families so the kids can feel like they are participating along with their parents in exploring the parks. The questions were coded with one, two or three stars with the one star questions specific to children or families. The kids will be entertained during their time in line and during their meals when they might otherwise be bored or fussy.

What are your plans for the future of Mouse Hangover and the Scavenger Hunt book?

I am very excited to announce The Great Walt Disney World Scavenger Hunt and The Great Universal Studios Florida coming soon. Guests will have the opportunity to see The Florida theme parks in much the same way I do. I only hope they will fall in love with all of the parks the way I have over the past twenty-five years.

The Giveaway!

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July 11, 2016

Sunborn Rising: Beneath the Fall

On a distant world of forests floating on an ocean around a star, a blight threatens to plunge all life into darkness.

But three friends seek the light.

Together, they will Fall and be lost. And at the very Root of darkness, they will find themselves. But will it be enough to help them find their way home?

About Sunborn Rising: Beneath the Fall

In the world of Cerulean, light and water flow from the ocean into the roots of the Great Trees, up through the boughs, and out over the lush canopy. But the once vibrant treescape has grown dim over generations of arboreal life, and the creatures of the forest have forgotten the light.

Barra, a young, willful Listlespur, finds her late father’s hidden journal, and reads about the old world and the mysterious plague her father believed destroyed it. He wrote that he warned the Elders. He urged them to take action. Those were his last words.

Together with her two best friends, Barra will explore every bark, wood, and leaf of the Great Forest to relight her world and complete her father’s story, even if she has to travel beneath the Fall.

My Thoughts

A fantastic verbal and visual adventure that you don’t want to put down! Three young friends from different backgrounds come together to discover a secret that Barra’s Father may have died from.

I love Barra’s character – she is brave, full of spirit and life but still has normal flaws that any human child would have at her young age. She tends to make spur of the moment decisions that she sometimes regrets but as she grows on this adventure she begins to see her own flaws and her ability to apologize and learn from her mistakes.

I loved the underlying story of the darkness that slowly took over the beautiful Great Forest. The story is full of beautiful descriptions of this new world that is easy to bring this new land to life once the friends travel beneath The Fall. Their experiences while full of adventure, has some scary moments (nothing too much for young readers) but will definitely keep them guessing what will happen next.

I loved every moment of this book and couldn’t wait to share it with my child! See what he thought below.

The Kids Thoughts

Funny, adventurous and full of bravery. The characters were interesting, funny and human like so that you could relate to their experiences. I loved the pictures that accompanied the story as it helped explain the story even more. I loved the adventure the friends took in The Fall to explore Barra’s Dads journal. It was exciting!

You can purchase a copy of this book on Amazon and the author’s website.

Rating: 5/5

About the Author

Aaron Safronoff is author of the Discovery Award winning science fiction novel, Spire. Since his debut, he’s published a sequel, Fallen Spire, and a novella of literary fiction, Evening Breezes.

Safronoff’s diverse background includes the formal study of computer science, bio-chemistry, and culinary arts. However, most of his career has been in the videogame industry in quality, production, and design.

Today, Safronoff is the co-founder and Chief Storyteller of Neoglyphic Entertainment, and is busy writing his fifth novel, the second installment of the Sunborn Rising series. You can connect with Aaron on his website, Twitter and Facebook.

Sunborn Rising: Beneath the Fall Trailer

The Giveaway!

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Disclosure: I received a digital copy of this book in order to facilitate this review. All opinions expressed are my own.