12/27/17

The Royal Treatment – A Crown Jewels Romantic Comedy, Book 1 – Melanie Summers

Synopsis:
Ultra-private, ridiculously handsome Crown Prince Arthur has always gotten by on his charm. But that won’t be enough now that the Royal Family is about to be ousted from power once and for all. When Prince Arthur has to rely on the one woman in the kingdom who hates him most, he must learn that earning the love of a nation means first risking his heart. Twenty-eight-year-old Tessa Sharpe, a.k.a.
The Royal Watchdog, hates everything about Prince Arthur. As far as she’s concerned, he’s an arrogant, lazy leech on the kingdom of Avonia. When he shocks the nation by giving her the keys to the castle, Tessa has no choice but to accept and move in for two months. It’s lust at first sight, but there’s no way she can give in to her feelings—not if she wants to have a career or a shred of pride left when her time at the palace ends… Can two natural enemies find their forever in each other’s arms, or will they ruin each other to save themselves?
Sweet, Sexy. Compelling
Tessa Sharpe (The Royal Watchdog) is a blogger that writes dreadful things about the Royal Family. She shames them because she doesn’t think the country needs a Royal Family. So, she writes about it in her blog. She has a large following and she has the capacity to impact the public’s view of the royal family.
Prince Arthur, being under the gun, devises a plan and invites Tessa to the castle to stay for a couple of months. He wants to persuade her and make her understand that having a Royal Family is actually beneficial to the country and necessary. Tessa accepts and the two enemies are now living together in the same palace.
What ensues is a hilarious romantic comedy that will keep readers engaged and happily turning the pages. As the story progresses, readers can feel the extreme heat between Tessa and Prince Arthur.
The Royal Treatment is unpredictable, with no loose ends. It is a total gem. It is intelligent, unforced, and very plausible. Tessa is clumsy and endearing, Melanie Summers put in just the right amount of wit and magnetism to keep readers engaged and believing the story line.
With likable quirky characters that are fully developed, I fell in love with almost all of them. Some were not so likable, keeping the story grounded – and funny.
Although it is a fairytale type story it seemed totally realistic and plausible. Tessa is cute, and awkward but also strong and smart. Prince Arthur is so charming that he even charmed my pants off.
The character development is superb, while author Melanie Summers rolls out each character as the story line progresses. You get to know and love each of the eccentric adorable characters as the book advances-extremely good writing.
The Royal Treatment is fast paced but not rushed. Melanie Summers seemed to have taken her time coming up with and writing this laugh-out-loud romantic comedy.
I know they say that “you can’t judge a book by its cover,” but that’s exactly what I did when I saw The Royal Treatment book cover. I loved it and I loved the story within the pages.
The storyline flows seamlessly together with no errors or editing issues. The book is light hearted and intelligent while keeping with the LOL rom com genre. There is plenty of drama, fun and romance and a ton of laugh out loud comedy.
The Royal Treatment is a quick and easy read with an in depth, well thought out plot. It’s perfect for someone that needs a break from this world and wants to delve into a modern day fairy tale that will keep them laughing and rooting for the main characters throughout the story.
Chick Lit Cafe loves The Royal Treatment by Melanie Summers and highly recommends it!
Purchase The Royal Treatment at Amazon Now

12/16/17

Is Buying Your Kids Books Enough to Get Them to Read?


Is Buying Your Kids Books Enough to Get Them to Read?

Parents and grandparents love to buy children books to read. There are so many books published today they are certainly spoiled for choice.
As educators and parents will tell you, learning to read is one of the most important tasks any child has to learn.
It is right up there with learning to ride a bicycle, learning to swim, and later on, learning to drive a car. However, many might argue that learning to read is so much more important, and for good reason. Without basic literacy skills a child’s future career, job prospects, and even happiness will be compromised.
All children have an innate love of pictures and funny stories. They seem to be hardwired to respond to bright colors, and magical tales. Toddlers and preschoolers like nothing more than cuddling up to a parent or a grandparent, and sharing the special memories only a book can offer.
Picture books offer children so much enjoyment, but is just buying a book and reading it to a child enough?
Is there something else we can do to build a love of books, and a desire to read?
Go Beyond Just Buying Books for Your Kids
Reading with and to your children is important. Make this time special for just you and them. Remember to turn off your phone, and if you don’t and it rings, ignore it.
Use engagement techniques like discussing what is going on in the illustrations and predicting the text to make the story more relatable.
Building context will help children create connections with their world and the stories you share with them. This will go a long way to helping them develop a love of reading.
Susan Day
Susan Day is a passionate author, educator and, grandmother. She wants to empower all parents and grandparents to build meaningful relationships with their grandchildren. Her first non-fiction book was written to explore changes in grandparenting, and teaches the reader how to create their own Grandparenting Philosophy. Discover the Top 10 Things Happy Grandparents Never Regret Doing.
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The Curse of Arundel hall by J. New

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The Curse of Arundel Hall
(A Yellow Cottage Vintage Mystery Book 2)
Synopsis:
One ghost, one murder, one hundred years apart. But are they connected? Ella has discovered a secret room in The Yellow Cottage, but with it comes a ghost. Who was she? And how did she die? Ella needs to find the answers before either of them can find peace. But suddenly things take a nasty turn for the worse. Ella Bridges has been living on Linhay Island for several months but still hasn’t discovered the identity of her ghostly guest. Deciding to research the history of her cottage for clues she finds it is connected to Arundel Hall, the large Manor House on the bluff, and when an invitation to dinner arrives realizes it is the perfect opportunity to discover more. However the evening takes a shocking turn when one of their party is murdered. Is The Curse of Arundel Hall once again rearing its ugly head, or is there a simpler explanation? Ella suddenly finds herself involved in two mysteries at once, and again joins forces with Scotland Yard’s Police Commissioner to try and catch a killer. But will they succeed? ‘Miss Marple meets The Ghost Whisperer’ – Perfect for fans of clean reads, Cozy Mysteries and Golden Age Murder Mysteries.
Mysterious, supernatural, intriguing and quirky
The Curse of Arundel Hall is a perfect suspenseful, murder mystery story. With just the right amount of quirky, yet believable, characters and suspects, I fell in love with this fast paced smart, who done it read.
It’s an exceptionally well written murder mystery that is set in the beautiful land of England back in the Golden Age of the 1930’s. Author J. New take readers on a delightful fun trip into the past while bringing them a fabulous thrilling mystery story.
New has chosen the setting of her, Yellow Cottage Mystery Series in the 1930’s in enchanting England where she has created a charming world that is vivid and beautiful. She has done a superb job with description, perception and narrative.  I was specifically impressed with the dialog and manner in which the characters communicated.
This is a very funny read as well. With a vibrant cast of hilarious characters, which fit into the plot with precision, I felt myself drawn to each one of them in different ways.
This mystery is well crafted and the characters are believable and relatable. They are well developed, multidimensional and appealing.
New has created the perfect storm of a murder mystery. Filled with not only a murder to solve, but it also features paranormal facets that course naturally throughout the tale. It is very realistic, as far as the genre goes. Readers will follow along and enjoy the plausible supernatural aspects. There are many twists and turns, and just when I thought I had figured it out, another turn would come up, keeping me guessing. The best mysteries are those that keep you guessing, while the puzzle is coming together.
In The Curse of Arundel Hall, J. New, has brought together, many reader’s two favorite genres, mystery and the paranormal. The added attraction of the spirit world makes this read a step above the rest. If you’re looking for a clean cozy mystery that delves deep into the mystery aspect and the spirit world of the paranormal-and is filled with twists and turns that will keep you guessing until the very satisfying end – then this is the book I highly recommend for you.
Excellent!
Purchase A Curse of Arundel Hall at Amazon

12/14/17

Simply Being Happy - Paula Sullivan


Simply Being Happy – Paula Sullivan
Synopsis:
WHAT HAVE YOU BEEN WAITING FOR THAT WILL FINALLY MAKE YOU HAPPY?
Is it a lottery ticket? A rich uncle? A huge, mysterious payoff?
Let the waiting finally be over and discover that you already have what you truly want – happiness. It’s there inside you, just waiting for you to access it.
So what’s the secret to finding it? Using your imagination. And Paula Sullivan has done just that – her imagination has led her to developing and exploring new practices you can use to achieve happiness simply by changing our thoughts. In Simply Being Happy, she’ll teach you how to strengthen your imagination just like any other muscle so it can bring you the results you want.
In these pages, you’ll discover how to:
– Change your thoughts about money from scarcity to abundance.
– Accentuate the positive in your life.
– Pay attention to the words you use and the thoughts you think.
– Reprogram those words and thoughts into life-altering positive ones.
– Learn to spot your own Doppelgangers for self-improvement.
– Access your inner wisdom so you always know what is best for you.
– Create your ideal day and your ideal lifestyle for the rest of your days.
Are you ready to live the life of your dreams? Are you ready for the happiness you’ve always craved and know you deserve? Then start creating it now by reading Simply Being Happy.
Simply Being Happy by Paula Sullivan is like a breath of fresh air. Her writing style and humor, along with all her teaching and tips, will engage the reader and possibly change their life.
We all strive for happiness. I think it is the number one thing that people desire. That’s why this book Simply Being Happy by Paula Sullivan is so pertinent and important. Without happiness, we are empty, depressed and sad. When we feel like those things, we don’t function like we should. Paula Sullivan’s book has real life applications, solutions and techniques to obtain happiness. We all deserve to be happy. And Paula Sullivan’s guide teaches us how.
Paula did a lot of research and read hundreds of books on teachings that range from modern day scientific studies to old more ancient ideas and studies. Her main conclusion has to do with “the power of visualization.” Yes, actually picturing things that we want in our minds. Many of us have poor images in our minds, and if we practice Sullivan’s93 steps, we can change those negative images to positive productive ones. Which in turn, will create happiness within our beings and limit the worry that leads to stress.
Through various visualization techniques and focusing on what you wish your life to be like, rather than how it is, Paula Sullivan claims that we can change our whole perspective. She says that we all have joy and inner wisdom residing within us, and that we can tap into it and actually pull it up by visualizing things that will create happiness and prosperity. Therefore, bringing it into realization and awareness.
She believes that our life experience should be an ongoing training exercise toward happiness and fulfillment by changing our subconscious picture from insufficiency to full prosperity and a fulfilled peaceful life. It’s about reprogramming our minds, which makes perfect sense. She advocates visualizations, positive spoken affirmations and meditation.
Through her extensive research and application, I believe that Paula Sullivan has really hit on something powerful and possibly pioneered the way to finding true deep and meaningful happiness.
I found Simply Being Happy to be strengthening and even a, somewhat, spiritual self-help book that has the power to change lives. It is an exciting book filled with many practical, applicable tips on how to reverse one’s thinking and become more joyful and peaceful. I tried her techniques and I sensed a newness within my mind and spirit. It really worked.
Having dealt with depression my whole life, after reading and putting into practice Sullivan’s ideas, I feel as though I have a whole new lease on life.
So, not only do I recommend this book, but I want to thank Paula Sullivan for her hard work to make this book possible and available to change my life and as well others.
Outstanding self-help read!
Purchase Simply Being Happy at Amazon Now!

12/9/17

The Child of the Kindred by M.T. Magee

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Child of the Kindred: The Rinefield Chronicles: Book 2 – A Romantic Heroic Fantasy Series By M.T. Magee
Synopsis:
The award winning romantic heroic fantasy saga continues. Enter the mystical realm of Rinefield, where love, danger, adventure and romance awaits you. Their world is changing and a new era has begun. Princess Laurel finds her kingdom of Gwenlais, torn and shattered from a bloody siege. Her people now looking to her, to help them rise above the ruin and misery inflicted upon their once peaceful and sheltered realm. Laurel and her beloved Prince Caleb, must find a way to unite their kingdoms, as never before. The enemy from a distant land makes a bold and savage attempt, to thwart the unity of the two kingdoms of Gwenlais and Heathwin. The odds have never been greater against the realms or the two lovers that hold the kingdoms together. Will their people and their love survive all they have lost? Will new life rise from above the ruins?
Review:
A spectacular, rich fantasy at its best!
M.T. Magee has done it again in her second novel in the Rienfield Chronicles, The Child of the Kindred. After reading her first book in the series, The Treasure of Gwenlais, I didn’t think it could get any better-but it did!
In Child of the Kindred, we re-enter the magical realm of Rienfield, where Princess Laurel is being held captive by the savage and merciless, Warrick. Her cherished kingdom of Gwenlais, has been captured, overthrown and plundered by Warrick and his evil army. As time goes by, and blood is being shed, Princess Laurel’s only hope is for her beloved husband, and Prince, Caleb and his men to rescue her and save the kingdom of Gwenlais.
But time is trickling away and the kingdom, as well as, Princess Laurel are in much peril. Will Caleb be able to reach her and save her and the kingdom? Will Princess Laurel and Prince Caleb be able to fight and keep the people safe and bring protection, peace and joy back to both of their kingdoms, Gwenlais and Heathwin? As their breathless love story and adventure continues, readers will be kept in a state of awe, as they passionately strive to unite their kingdoms.
What an adventurous tale M.T. Magee has created in The Child of the Kindred. The beauty of both Gwenlais and Heathwin is a delight for the senses and captivates the reader’s heart and won’t let go.
It is such a delight to read the world M.T. Magee creates, which is inspired by both the beautiful Scottish and Irish old world cultures, including the winsome Gaelic dialect.  Much devoted research went into this great novel.
As Princess Laurel and Prince Caleb’s passionate love story continued, I was drawn in and held captive myself.
The realm of Rienfield is an unimaginable world filled with vivid scenes and colors. This fascinating, beautiful romantic Celtic inspired fantasy saga will sweep you away from reality and launch you into a dream world.
The writing of this beautiful tale is impeccable. It reminds me of J.R.R. Tolkien and The Lord of the Rings, or could it be better? I think so.
It is beautifully composed and the imagination put into this story is unbelievable. M.T. Magee is a highly talented original writer.
There is a lot going on in this, rather, long novel. However, the plot is outstanding and flows beautifully- every word is to be savored.
Come fall in love with the heroic characters in the inspiring, magical, realm of Rienfield.
Filled with love, peril, warfare and romance, in Rienfield you will be taken on an adventure of a lifetime. To a magical mystical land far away. All fantasy lovers should read this book. In my opinion, it should become a classic. It is that exceptional and noteworthy.
Chick Lits Cafe highly recommends this rare and sensational epic fantasy saga, “The Child of the Kindred” by M.T. Magee
Purchase Child of the Kindred Now at Amazon
Connect with Author M.T. Magee

12/5/17

Truth and The Serpent - J. Rutledge

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Synopsis:
What if you encountered a dark and sinister character of not so subtle reputation? One whose origins are the very meaning of temptation and sin.
What do we really know of creation, myth, and belief? There was a Man, a Woman, a Garden, and of course… a Serpent. Yet, what we have come to know as temptation, and mortal sin are only one side of the story. You see, three sinned, and three were punished, but only two were expelled from the Garden, but afterwards…what happened to the Serpent?
A present day man finds himself eye to eye with the infamous Serpent of curse and ruin. The Serpent who characteristically makes the man an offer to learn not just what happened, but why.
A tale unlike any other, where the fall of man is not weighed on a scale of good or evil, but in truth and lies. The Serpent whose intellect, sarcasm, and wit cultivates over time as he appraises the history of man and religious lore. The Serpent who is also on a journey of self-discovery to learn the meaning of that ill-fated encounter and the purpose of his own life.
Come to know the unsung story of one who lived through creation, survived the great deluge, witnessed a mass exodus, and the rise and fall of exalted kings of men. Could such a tale, as told by a forked tongue, be the end of lies, and the beginning… of the truth.
Review:
Originality at its best!
Truth and The Serpent by J. Rutledge is an outstanding novel and work of fiction that examines the creation story with an intriguing twist. In this excellent tale, the author explores a different take on creation by telling the story from the Serpent’s point of view on the whole matter. The Serpent’s interesting, and very informative narrative of his revelation and personal experience regarding the story is very different than what humanity has been taught and what we read in the bible.
This story, for religious purposes, could be viewed as a somewhat controversial read. However, the author was able to create a work of fiction, and keep it centered and easy, for both the right and left sides to enjoy.
Rutledge has created an authentic and different narrative that follows the biblical timeline. The reader accompanies the Serpent, after the Garden of Eden as he lives throughout the remarkable events recounted in the bible.
This is an invigorating tale where the story portrays the Serpent and a modern day man discussing the biblical events. It begins in the Garden of Eden, but instead of focusing on Adam and Eve, the witty Serpent recalls his own version. He talks about and believes the events that took place in the bible have formed and made humanity what it is today.
I was so impressed by the manner in which J. Rutledge was, so brilliantly, able to put such depth and detail into developing the Serpent’s character. He is fully developed and uniquely contrasting to most of the one dimensional characters we read about in books. J.Rutledge is talented, creative, and an obvious, deep thinker. Brilliant!
The aptitude of his composition and the imagery encompassing his well penned words, kept me turning the pages while envisioning the scenery.
The writing of this book is exceptional and worthy of praise. Its originality, along with the adventure the author takes the reader on is exhilarating. The storyline is so very unique and well thought out, while the language flows naturally and distinctive. The book is engaging and thrilling, and the sentences and prose roll out nicely and clearly.
With an excellent and thought provoking ending, J. Rutledge challenges the reader with intriguing ideas that are positive, inspiring and deep.
This is J. Rutledge’s first novel and it is sensational and beyond words of description.
We are anxiously anticipating his second inspirational and exciting novel.
Everything about this book is great!
Highly recommended!
Purchase Truth and The Serpent Now
Connect with J. Rutledge
J. Rutledge on Facebook:Twitter: @writerJRutledge

11/22/17

The Treasure of Gwenlais by M.T. Magee





From the International, bestselling series, The Rinefield Chronicles by M.T. Magee, comes book #1, entitled The Treasure of Gwenlais. Book #2 is called “Child of the Kindred.” Whilst book #3 is now in production and highly anticipated by the fans of M.T. Magee’sexciting “Rinefield Chronicles” series.
The Treasure of Gwenlais
Synopsis:
COME AWAY ON AN EPIC JOURNEY OF ROMANCE AND ADVENTURE!
Escape to the award winning mystical realm of Rinefield! Can a young reluctant Princess fulfill her destiny to heal the torn Kingdoms and the heart of a battle hardened warrior Prince?
Join Laurel on an extraordinary journey, filled with excitement, treachery, danger and finding a love you only dared dream of! A love story that will leave you breathless, and a world like none imagined! An unforgettable fantasy saga with characters you will fall in love with!
Review:
Treasure of Gwenlais is a breathtaking novel set in the magical and wondrous realm of the Gaelic kingdoms in the Medieval Middle Ages. It’s an epic fantasy romance, influenced by the Scottish Gaelics of yesteryear along with their legends and folklore.
The description and the synopsis of the storyline about the “mystical realm of Rinefield” drew me in right away and intrigued me, so I was very excited to read this novel.
Beautiful Princess of Gwenlais, Laurel, is about to be murdered and is looking at imminent demise. Just minutes away from death, in comes Prince Caleb of the kingdom of Heathwin and saves her life.
Extremely fierce Rabkins murdered Laurel’s beloved mother whom was the Queen of Gwenlais. Now the Rabkin clan is pursuing Laurel and want her dead, as well.
The Rabkin are a terrifying sort and breed, the humans dread them. They are thought of to be notable, cutthroat slayers, and a lethal power to deal with.
What ensues is a memorable tale of an adventurous journey, full of betrayal, peril, anticipation, romance, love, power and survival.
Laurel and Caleb begin to develop a love for one another even though they live in separate kingdoms. But their delicate love must endure the harrowing things that roll out while the intricate neighboring kingdoms fight for dominance, survival and peace.
Our main character, Laurel, is a delicate victor and a force to be reckoned with, herself.
Her exquisite, intricate demeanor is embodied with strength and resilience. She is a fascinating character within this extraordinary tale.
I, unreservedly, love the kingdoms, and realm, that M.T. Magee cleverly created. It is full of magical treasures and creativity. Although it is a rather long story, my eyes were glued to the pages and I couldn’t put it down. It captivated me from the very first page. It has to be one of the best romantic fantasy books I have ever read.
The Treasure of Gwenlais is filled creatures and characters that are beyond the reader’s imagination. How our author M.T. Magee came up with such an original, mystical and Gaelic tale, is beyond me. I am a bookworm and have read hundreds of fantasy/Sci Fi/Romance books, but this is my absolute favorite thus far.
M.T. Magee, with great care and forethought, knits together an imaginative narrative with many mentions of enchanting Gaelic culture and kingdoms. The plot and characters are intricately woven together to create a fantastical novel.
The world that Magee has created is magical, mystical and spellbinding. It’s an emotional read, as well. I found myself experiencing many welcomed feelings. My reaction to certain events and characters were surprising and thrilling.
The descriptions of the characters, and scenery are brilliant, vivid, colorful and enticing.
The Treasure of Gwenlais is a beautiful read and a treasure unto its own.
I found it to be a fabulous escape from reality-and isn’t that what a great book is supposed to do-be a great escape? Well is the book that will take you to another fascinating and irresistible world.
The attention to detail in this marvelous tale is highly impressive and noteworthy.
M.T. Magee will take you on an exciting adventure as you read her extremely well written and composed novel-The Treasure of Gwenlais: The Rienfield Chronicles Book One
Highly Recommended!
Connect with Author M.T. Magee
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11/14/17

Emergence (Janus Unfolding Book 1) by C.A. Knutsen

Synopsis: 

Jim Post, the wealthy leader of Compass Enterprises, is a man of mystery whose off-the-charts intellect and physical prowess have sparked uneasy whispers. Then badly-burned human remains are found in the ashes of Post’s home in rural Southwest Washington State. Jim is missing. Is he the victim? Was it murder?

 Post’s associates at Compass, dedicated to continuing his humanitarian mission in developing new technology, help investigate his disappearance. They’re aided by an advanced Artificial Intelligence that Post created, but conceal its existence from the police and a public not quite ready for full disclosure. When will the time be ripe for a revelation that will alter the future for everyone?

 Review: 

 Compelling, gripping and absorbing. In the small town of Frazier, Washington an unexplained house fire burns fiercely hot and out of control, leaving nothing behind except for a few human remains in the form of bones. Authorities and towns folk are confused and perplexed as the remains are unidentifiable, and the onset of the fire is yet to be identified.

Jim Post, a mysterious, wealthy businessman, and dedicated humanitarian, suddenly goes missing. Could he be the victim of the fire? After all it was his home. Was it an accident or intentional? Was Jim Post murdered? If so, who wanted this brilliant, humane man dead and why?

Enter Jeff Pierce, Jim Post’s business associate. He begins to help with the investigation. Jeff Pierce is determined to find answers as he works with authorities and secretly utilizes an artificial intelligence program that Jim Post had created before he disappeared.

 Emergence is a fast paced science fiction tale filled with mystery and intrigue. It is an enthralling, mind-stimulating read. From one chapter to the next, C.A. Knutsen takes readers on a journey from the crime scene investigation to the interesting life and childhood of Jim Post. Readers will get caught up in both the investigation of the crime and the subjects of DNA and evolution of humankind. 

 C.A. Knutsen has created a clever intellectual piece of visionary fiction. The characters are well developed and woven into the plot with precision and forethought.Each character is unique and interesting, and a vital part of the story. With a lot of activity occurring, there is also much substantiated material integrated into the storyline. The premise of the story fringes on the unknown and what could be in the world of technology. 

 A very smart and thought-provoking read. Readers will be turning the pages quickly as they are mesmerized by the thread of mystery and the scientific components that are the fabric of this great novel. 

 Emergence is an exceptional, well-researched narrative with vivid descriptions and an ending that will satisfy readers. We are looking forward to more novels by the author of this fascinating book, C.A. Knutsen. 

 Chick Lit Cafe highly recommends Emergence.

Purchase Emergence-(Janus Unfolding Book 1) Now

Connect With C.A. Knutsen
Website - C.A. Knutsen
Twitter - @CaKnutsen
Facebook - C.A. Knutsen
GoodReads - C.A. Knutsen

Reviewed by Chick Lit Cafe

10/22/17

A Dress the Color of the Sky By Jennifer Irwin

Synopsis
For too many years, Prudence Aldrich has been numbing the pain in her life with random sexual encounters. Her marriage to cold, self-centered Nick is, not surprisingly, on the rocks. But after several dangerous experiences with strangers, Prudence finally realizes she needs therapy to stop her self-destructive behavior, and so she checks into the Serenity Hills rehab center.
Prudence blames herself for her irresponsible behavior and is filled with self-loathing. She's convinced she is completely at fault for Nick's manipulative attitude and believes with therapy, she can return their relationship to its idyllic beginnings. However, her therapist and the other members of her rehab group see the person behind the pain. As Prudence learns more about herself and the reasons for her behavior, including startling revelations about her childhood, she begins to understand the basis for her lack of sexual self-respect. She also learns she is not entirely to blame for the failure of her marriage. With the positive reinforcement of everyone at Serenity Hills, Prudence learns not to define herself by her past. But moving forward would mean letting go of Nick for good, and Prudence isn't sure she can.

Review:
Beautiful, moving and authentic!

A Dress the Color of the Sky is impressive beyond reasoning. It is filled with both heartwarming and heart-rending emotion. From start to finish author, Jennifer Irwin, captures the reader’s heart and tugs deeply in her debut novel. She has tackled a sensitive subject based on reality, and accurately brought it to life with intensity, passion and drama.

The main character, Prudence Aldrich, lives life dangerously and on the edge of instability.
Her random sexual encounters are nothing more than an addiction to numb the inner pain that she is living and struggling with.
Her life is complicated and she needs help before her self-destructive behavior catches up with her and causes her real harm.
She checks herself into Serenity Hills rehab facility and begins her journey from self-hatred and addiction to self discovery, healing and freedom.

Prudence is a likable strong character. She is resilient and multi-faceted. Jennifer Irwin has done a remarkable job of writing and developing this character and the others as well.
All the characters are well written with purpose and forethought. Their interactions with one another are believable and pertinent. Jennifer Irwin has a way with words unlike many other authors. She has a gift for writing dialog and giving the plot depth and interest. The way she describes the characters,  surroundings and the many details gives the reader a sense of being there and experiencing everything for themselves. It is perfectly delightful and nearly discomforting at the same time.

I absolutely loved A Dress the Color of the Sky. It is brimming with life. It caused me to smile, laugh, cry and even get angry. I love that it brought me, delightfully, out of my comfort zone. It touches on the human condition and issues that are normally hidden from society but never the less real, and I suspect somewhat common these days. That’s why this novel is very timely and relevant.

I was specifically impressed by how the author was able to show that Prudence’s problems stem from many negative incidents, including her childhood. I believe that many readers will relate to this fact in the story. I felt as though I was being challenged to take a closer look at my own life and while reading it, I experienced being undone and put back together again, for the better.

What a remarkable novel! So personal, touching and moving!

A Dress the Color of the Sky By Jennifer Irwin is a praiseworthy work of contemporary fiction. Jennifer has emerged as a fresh new voice in the writing community. One would never guess that this is her debut novel because it is unquestionably written with skill, creativity and real talent. It’s not at all surprising that A Dress the Color of the Sky is already chosen and set to become a full feature movie.

Pick up a copy and read it before the movie comes out. You will be thrilled and glad you did.
Connect With Jennifer


10/19/17

Book Review: Chronicles of Forgiveness By Thea Casey

Synopsis
Shattered. Valarie Denson RN, is a successful entrepreneur despite harboring decades of suppressed anger after being abandoned as a child. Filling the emptiness in her heart with damaging relationships causes her to ignore God until the influential world she created crumbles.
Within months Valarie takes an abrupt detour to being penniless, facing foreclosure and a failing marriage. Valarie's only hope is to surrender to her faith she once depended on and trust God. Brokenness forces Valarie to accept an undesirable job position which thrusts her face to face with the person from her past whom she holds responsible for her years of pain and the astonishing reason she was left behind is revealed.
Valarie must realize that the power of forgiveness is the key to escape from her pit of despair before she self-destructs. Travel with Valarie as she returns to and embraces her faith while she rebuilds the pieces of her fragmented life and discovers the love she deserves according to God's plan. Chronicles of Forgiveness should inspire women of all ages who stopped believing the best belongs to them.
Review:
Even though she was abandoned as a young child, Valerie Denson has managed to lead a successful life. Even though she has accomplished much in her life, she still holds on to many damaging emotions. As time goes on she fulfills her emptiness with relationships that end up being damaging, adding to her already seriously damaged emotions. All the while she is ignoring God, until her world begins to completely fall apart. In a short period of time Valerie’s life takes a bad turn while she begins to lose everything she has worked for.
When Valerie decides to return to her faith in God, the journey to healing and forgiveness begins.
Chronicles of forgiveness is a powerful look at how God can change a person’s life and heal their heart through the power of forgiveness. It’s full of emotion and passion. Author, Thea Casey, takes us on a journey into the heart of a broken woman and how by turning and surrendering her life to God, she is able to overcome her devastating past and move on to a more bright and happy future.
I really enjoyed Chronicles of Forgiveness. It is full of hope and inspiration and shows just how wonderful the Lord is when a person turns to him.
It is extremely well written and meaningful.
This book will inspire women to give their hurts and hearts over to a loving God who not only gives promises but always and faithfully fulfills his promises.
It is a journey in faith and women readers will find themselves turning to God and faith in him to realize just how much they are loved by him.

Powerful and inspirational work written by a very talented writer Thea Casey
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