Review: The Bronze and the Brimstone: Book II of the Verona Trilogy by Lory S. Kaufman

 ary:
This is book #2 of the Verona Trilogy where Hansum, Shamira and Lincoln, three teens from the 24th-century, are trapped in 14th-century Verona, Italy. They've survived many deadly experiences by keeping their wits about them and by introducing futuristic technology into the past. Principal among these inventions is the telescope, which brought them to the attention of the rich and powerful.

But standing out can get you into unexpected – situations. The nobles of Verona now believe Hansum is a savant, a genius inventor, especially after he brings them plans for advanced cannons and black powder. Being the center of attention is great, but the potential for trouble is now exponentially greater because people are watching Hansum’s every move.

Meanwhile, artistic genius Shamira has fallen for a Florentine artist with bloody and disastrous consequences. Lincoln, considered an incompetent back home in the 24th-century, has blossomed – at least until he’s shot in the head with an arrow. And Hansum, after secretly marrying his new master’s beautiful daughter, Guilietta, is offered the hand in marriage of lady Beatrice, daughter of the ruler of Verona. To refuse could mean calamity for all the teens.

My review:

I found myself a bit bogged down in this second book. I think the focus on Hansum was too much as it took up most of the book. I thought it was unfortunate as the other two main characters are just as interesting. Also, since the theme throughout the first book was to work together, this theme was lost in the second.

The ongoing romance between Hansum and Guiletta was rather goofy to me considering that this is supposed to be a young teenager. Hormones out of whack indeed! I seriously could not see this young man staying devoted to her with all the money, power, and another beauty being thrown his way. That kind of pressure would break even the strongest of the modern teens today of which he really is.

The second book was once again divided into three "books" within the book with chapters in each. This just drove me nuts and again, I found this to be quite confusing. I am not sure why the author has chosen to write like this and I find it to be quite distracting.

The author did write a good tale considering all that I have said before. I am not sure young adult girls would be all that thrilled with the military coups and glory of war, I know I wasn't. However, young adult boys would probably get into it...maybe.

The author was also able to make me feel like I was right there with Hansum. I was able to relate to his feelings, his wants, his needs, his loss, his loneliness, and his utter disappointments. For that I give the author kudos.

I was disappointed in the ending for this book and felt it may have been better suited in the third book. It seemed abrupt and misplaced. Since I have not read the third book yet, I will give the author the benefit of the doubt.

Again, I can only give 3 stars and hope that the next book is a winner!

~Naila Moon

Disclosure: I was given this book for my open and honest opinion. The views expressed here are 100 % my own and may differ from yours.

Where to find the author:

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Michael Phillip Cash's "Flip It" #Giveaway...$100 Paypal Cash & More!

Have you ever watched those home shows where they have bought a dilapidated house and turned it into a show piece? It is certainly fascinating to watch. However, what if one of those houses has former ghost inhabitants that just do not want to leave? 

Author Michael Phillip Cash's newest book, The Flip is all about a house flip going terribly wrong.

"Julie and Brad Evans are house flippers. They buy low, clean out the old occupants junk, and try to make a profit. Enter Hemmings House on Bedlam Street in scenic Cold Spring Harbor, Long Island. Too good a deal to pass up, but with an ominous secret. The old Victorian Mansion has dwellers that do not want to be dispossessed. As the house reveals it's past, will the couples marriage survive The Flip?"

Just in time for Memorial Day weekend and looking toward the Summer,  Michael Phillip Cash wants to introduce The Flip to the world at large. The author is generously giving a great and fun prize pack that will set the winner up right for Summer fun in the sun.

One winner will receive all of the following:

*A copy of his book, The Flip
*A screen printed beach towel
*A bottle of sunscreen
*A tote to hold it all
*$100 Paypal cash

Would you like to win this great prize? All you have to do is enter in the Rafflecopter below. Good luck!

Where you can find Michael Phillip Cash:

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Rules and disclosure:
This giveaway has been arranged and promoted by Away We Go Media. Naila Moon of Reading Authors was asked to promote this great giveaway on behalf of Michael Phillip Cash and was compensated for this post.

There will be one winner for this giveaway picked at random by Rafflecopter.org. Winner must be at least 18 years of age to enter and have a Paypal account. 
Winner must respond with full mailing address and Paypal account information within 48 hours of an email sent or forfeit prize.

The giveaway will be from May 25, 2014 at 12 AM MST-June 9, 2014 12 AM MST
The giveaway is open to U.S. only.

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Review: Pressed Pennies by Steven Manchester

Summary:
Rick and Abby grew up together, became best friends, and ultimately fell in love. Circumstance tore them apart in their early teens, though, and they went on to lives less idyllic than they dreamed about in those early days. Rick has had a very successful career, but his marriage flat-lined. Abby has a magical daughter, Paige, but Paige's father nearly destroyed Abby's spirit.

Now fate has thrown Rick and Abby together again. In their early thirties, they are more world-weary than they were as kids. But their relationship still shimmers, and they're hungry to make up for lost time. However, Paige, now nine, is not nearly as enthusiastic. She's very protective of the life she's made with her mother and not open to the duo becoming a trio. Meanwhile, Rick has very little experience dealing with kids and doesn't know how to handle Paige. This leaves Abby caught between the two people who matter the most to her. What happens when the life you've dreamed of remains just inches from your grasp?

My review:
Cons:
I have read all of Steven Manchester's novels and usually find them to be fantastic. He usually manages to get me immersed in the lives of the characters and I want to know them personally.
This time, not so much.  

As much as it was sentimental for the characters Rick and Abby to find each other again, I found myself wanting to slap both of these characters upside the head and not wanting to know them at all. Frankly, both made me ill with the sappiness of their "love" story. Honestly, it was a repeat performance throughout most of the book.

Rick loves Abby (and has the heart of gold, along with his pocketbook)...Abby loves him (And hates her ex-husband and does EVERYTHING for Paige)...Paige is bratty to Rick and disrespects her mom...repeat. When it finally got to Rick and Abby making love, I was exhausted. 

Steven Manchester had some minor characters in here too, Rick's Dad and Grandmother, Paige's friends, and Abby's ex-husband. I think I would have liked to have seen these characters developed more and why they related to the major characters the way they did. Surely, there was even more backstory about them? 

My last issue was the last chapter of the book. I will not reveal what that is because I simply do not do that but I will say it seemed anti-climactic and maybe even misplaced. If anything, I thought the chapter should have been more of an epilogue.

Pros:
Even with all I have said above, Steven Manchester simply knows how to write! His descriptions of places and times brought me into the story where the characters didn't. I could get lost and usually do in his descriptive edge. This is such a strong suit for Mr. Manchester that is just top notch and because of that he managed to keep me reading to the end.

His prose pieces were also sprinkled throughout the book as the character Rick was a "writer". I loved this even among its sappiness. The pieces were beautiful, eloquently done and well placed within the book.

Though this is ultimately a love story, it is not a dime store romance book. I was pleasantly happy about that and would have been completely disappointed if it had been. In fact, the author clearly worked at making their love hopeful and quite meaningful among everything that was working to keep them apart.

Over all, I liked the book even if I felt it was not Steven Manchesters best. Without a doubt there will be more novels from this author and I certainly look forward to reading them.

This book: 3 stars

Disclosure: I was given a copy of this book for my open and honest opinion. The opinions expressed here are 100% my own and may differ with yours.
~Naila Moon

Where to find the author:

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#Giveaway: "If You Were Me and Lived In Russia" ...three prizes!

Carole P. Roman continues to write great children's literature!
With her ground breaking series of, "If You Were Me and Lived In...", Carole P. Roman captured the hearts of children around the world.  Her first book about Mexico has won several awards including the Pinnacle Book Achievement Award in 2012.

Now, she wants to introduce her most recent in the series, "If You Were Me and Lived In Russia."
Come along as Carole P. Roman takes your child on tour to Russia and learns things like,where St. Basil's Cathedral and the Kremlin are. Find out what borscht is and what is the most popular game children like to play.

To introduce this fine book, Carole P. Roman is having a mega giveaway with three winners.
Enter below for your chance to win one of the three prizes.

1st Prize:
If You Were Me and Lived In Russia book, $30 Paypal and a set of Russian nesting dolls

2nd Prize:
If You Were Me and Lived In Russia book and $15 Paypal

3rd Prize:
If You Were Me and Lived In Russia book and $5 Paypal

Where to find Carole P. Roman:

Facebook
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Rules and Disclosure:
Naila Moon of Reading Authors was invited to promote this giveaway on behalf of Carole P. Roman. I was compensated for this post.
This giveaway was arranged by Away We Go Media.

Winners will be selected at random by Rafflecopter. All entries will be verified for accordance with the rules of each entry. There will be three (3) winners for this giveaway.

NOTE:
The giveaway is open Internationally. However, if an international winner is selected for the first prize, you will not be eligible for the nesting dolls and can only receive a Kindle copy of the book.
Kindle copies of the book for 2nd & 3rd prize for international winners as well.

You must have a Paypal account in order to win and prize will only be paid in US dollars only.

Giveaway begins on May 22, 2014 at 12AM MST through June 6, 2014 at 12AM MST. Winners must respond to an email sent to them within 48 hours or forfeit their prize.

This giveaway is in no way affiliated with Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest or any other social media outlet.

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Review: GG & Mamela by Belinda Brock, Illustrated by Avi Katz

Summary:
This picture book celebrates the loving relationship between Lily and her great-grandmother (GG) as her life starts to slow and wind down in hospice. GG and Mamela illustrates how strength and comfort can be found through love, family and tradition. This book offers a gentle and open-ended way to start a conversation about death and dying, as well as introduce the concept of hospice care.

My review:
This book became somewhat personal to me as my own parent had to have hospice at the end of his life. Unlike, GG, my Dad had hospice at home.  I cannot say enough about how kind they were!

When someone is dying, it is difficult for adults to deal with and very confusing for children. I loved how this book allowed  Mamela's father to express his sorrow and yet, help Mamela to understand that it was ok too. That even though her GG (Great-Grandma)  is dying, she will always be...her GG!

The book pointed out that the strength in families, the comforts of home, and sometimes repetition is what gets you by. In the case of Mamela and GG, it was the  telling of stories and making GG's secret chicken noodle soup. In fact, the book ends with the recipe for her soup. That made me smile.

The illustrations were done is watercolor and added a realness to the book. Although the book seems to end abruptly, the reader does not need to know the true ending because in truth it is a reality. This story book would certainly help children through the processes of a loved one being in hospice and leave opportunities for questions and discussion

5 stars

Disclosure: I received this book for my open and honest opinion. The views expressed here are 100% my own and may differ with yours.

Where to find the author:

Amazon
Goodreads

Review: The FLIP by Michael Phillip Cash

Summary:
Julie and Brad Evans are house flippers. They buy low, clean out the old occupants junk, and try to make a profit. Enter Hemmings House on Bedlam Street in scenic Cold Spring Harbor, Long Island. Too good a deal to pass up, but with an ominous secret. The old Victorian Mansion has dwellers that do not want to be dispossessed. As the house reveals it's past, will the couples marriage survive The Flip?

My review:
I have always thought it would be cool to be a house flipper. It amazes me that people can buy what looks like a run down piece of nothing and turn it into a showplace. That is why when I started reading this new book by Michael Phillip Cash, I thought that it was going to be a bit of fun mixed in with a bit of scary. I was not disappointed in the least.

I will tell you though what it is not. If you are looking for a straight up, hiding under your covers, blood and gore type book, this is not it! Honestly, I was glad about that. 
Also, the book starts off a little slow but picks up as it goes. I saw the necessary reason for this and eventually it becomes a very fast read. Again, no disappointment there.

What this book is though, is the paranormal coming out to play in very interesting ways. The main characters are trying desperately to make this house into a good flip only to be taunted by the previous inhabitants who have no intention of leaving anytime soon. This causes strife between the couple and the one person that works for them too. 
A budding love story is present but not so overwhelming that it comes off as more of a romance novel than paranormal book. 

As with other books that Michael Cash has written, he expertly combines the past with the present making for a good story within a story, a little bit of history is thrown in this one too. I loved this and totally made sense for the entire book.
What I also loved is how some characters from previous books make a triumphant return. However, I will not reveal those but it was a nice twist in the plot and made for fun reading.

I do caution readers that there is a bit of adult language in this book and mild sex scenes but nothing too raunchy not to want to read it. 

Fantastic read and another 5 stars for Mr. Cash.
~Naila Moon

Disclosure: I purchased this book for my collection. The views expressed here are 100% my own and may differ from yours.

Where to find the author:

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Review: My Fingerpaint Masterpiece by Sherrill S. Cannon Illustrated by Kalpart

Summary:

 Have you ever seen a "work of art" worth millions, which looks like something your child just brought home from school? The dual perspective of "Beauty is in the Eye of the Beholder" and just a little bit of "The Emperor's New Clothes" is evident in this clever artwork story of a child who paints a fingerpaint print in class and then loses it in the wind on the way home. Illustrated from the point of view of a child, whose identity is left to the imagination of the reader since all of the illustrations are what the child sees, the fingerpaint print is interpreted by official "judges" as well as by bystanders. Should people be influenced by what others see, or use their own self-esteem to make their own judgments?

My review:

I decided to do this review via video. Check it out.  Just a little hint...5 stars!

Where you can find the author:

Amazon

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Goodreads

Blog Tour Giveaway: $25 Paypal or Amazon from Melissa Perry Moraja

I was asked to promote this adorable book. You can read my review HERE and enter to win it below! ~Naila Moon

About the Book

Title: Josh and the Gumshoe News Crew: The Super Secret | Author: Melissa Perry Moraja | Publication Date: May 5, 2014 | Publisher: Melissa Productions | Pages: 154 | Recommended Ages: 6+ (read-aloud)  

Purchase

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About the Author: Melissa Perry Moraja

Melissa Perry Moraja[/caption] Melissa Perry Moraja, Award-Winning Author and Founder of Melissa Productions, Inc., is an entrepreneurial mom, a multifaceted business woman, a creative producer, and an author and illustrator of numerous modern-fantasy children’s books and self-help books. And that’s just the beginning! Melissa also has published articles, appeared on television, been interviewed on radio, has spoken in front of hundreds of people, and held workshops at local schools, discussing creative learning, publishing and parenting. Her desire to make a difference in her four young children’s lives inspired her to leave her six-salary career at IBM in 2007 to become a full-time mom, children’s author, speaker, and consultant. Melissa spends her personal time coaching soccer and softball, painting, and coming up with fun art projects for her kids. She also blogs for Working Mother blog, has guest blogged for Charlotte Observer Mom’s Charlotte, and has her own personal blog at Not Your Ordinary Psychic Mom. Melissa is also committed to building awareness and support for type 1 diabetes. Her twin daughter was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes November 4, 2011. To learn more about Madison’s type 1 diabetes disease please read Madison’s Story. For more information about Melissa and her books, please visit http://www.melissaproductions.com and http://www.notyourordinarypsychicmom.com

 

* Blog Tour Giveaway *

Prize: $25 Amazon Gift Card or PayPal cash (winner’s choice) Contest ends: June 3, 11:59 pm, 2014 Open: Internationally

 How to enter: Please enter using the Rafflecopter widget below. Naila Moon of Once Upon A Time was asked to promote this blog tour and is not responsible for prize shipment.

Terms and Conditions: NO PURCHASE NECESSARY TO ENTER OR WIN. VOID WHERE PROHIBITED BY LAW. A winner will be randomly drawn through the Rafflecopter widget and will be contacted by email within 48 hours after the giveaway ends. The winner will then have 72 hours to respond. If the winner does not respond within 72 hours, a new draw will take place for a new winner. Odds of winning will vary depending on the number of eligible entries received. This contest is in no way sponsored, endorsed or administered by, or associated with Facebook. This giveaway is sponsored by the author, Melissa Perry Moraja and is hosted and managed by Renee from Mother Daughter Book Reviews. If you have any additional questions – feel free to send and email to Renee(at)MotherDaughterBookReviews(dot)com.

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Review: Josh and the Gumshoe News Crew by Melissa Perry Moraja

Summary: 
Up until a few days ago, nothing extraordinary had ever happened in ten year old Josh Wunderkind's life--except eating a whole pot of pasta by himself. But that all changed after a mammoth-sized raptor hit him smack on the face with a glob of neon green bird poop. triggering his superhuman Wunderkind ability and leaving him with the responsibility of caring for a baby raptor he named Max. But what Josh didn't realize was that being super extraordinary was't all fun and games. Especially because he was still living in the shadows of his older brother Jake's greatness. And things only got more complex in Josh's life when his two siblings and a couple neighborhood friends persuade him to lead a super crime-solving, neighborhood news team-the Gumshoe News Crew. But not before they agree on the Super Secret and complete Gumshoe Boot Camp. Find out what the Super Secret is. Will the Gumshoe News Crew complete boot camp? Or will Josh let his team down?

My review:
Josh is just an ordinary kid who does ordinary things with his friends and siblings. When he accidently gets super powers he is not sure what is happening. He also at least at first does not have much control over them either. His brother Jake concocts a training exercise to help him and friends.

As the story unfolds, his super powers come in handy as he leads four other kids through the training and subsequently a adventure to re-obtain stolen items from his baby sister, Mom, and neighbors. The thief is not at all who one would think as a thief. 

Josh does learn to work together with his team and that all of them have something to offer and that super powers are not always useful or needed. The book winds up with the creation of the "gumshoe news crew" who will no doubt have more adventures and crime seeking explorations in subsequent books.
--------------
This is a humorous first chapter book in a series aimed at 6-12 year olds, although I think it is more suited for 8-12. I found myself chuckling at a few things and I know kids will too. 
The book was a fairly easy read so the youngest of new readers will not have much difficulty. The older reader will love the humor throughout and should be able to read the book with ease.

My only disappointment was that the book left me hanging and wanting more.
Great book. 4 stars.

Disclosure: I received a copy of this book for my open and honest opinion. The review expressed here is 100% my own and may differ with yours.

Where to find the author:

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Review: When I Grow Up I Want To Be A Teacher! By Wigu Publishing

Summary:

 Carlee always wanted to be a teacher when she grew up, until her mother is hired as a teacher at her school! Some of her friends are even in her mother's class. Carlee is worried. What will her friends say? Will her mother do something to embarrass her? Carlee vows never to become a teacher like her mother, but as she journeys through the first day of school with her own new teacher, Carlee makes some surprising discoveries.

My review:
I recently received this first book in a series of books to review. This is a nicely done chapter book that follows the perplexity of Carlee who starts the first day of the new school year with her mother being  not only a teacher at her school but teaches the same grade.

Carlee goes throughout the day learning about her new subjects and how those subjects relate to real life events and people. She makes many choices too as she wrangles with the fact her mother is a teacher. I like both of these concepts as I feel children need to be able to relate the things they learn to real life and base life choices from them.

The book includes special segments not related to the story per se but to the subjects that Carlee is currently having in school and is thinking about. For example, Carlee is having art class. On page 31 there are related real-life people and a tib bit about them like Leonardo da Vinci. When she is having science, on page 43 there are scientist like, Marie Curie.
I thought this was a brilliant action on the part of the authors as the kids are learning within their reading.

The illustrations of Carlee were cartoonish and not that terrific but the cartoon character was put into real life photos which helped to balance the book.

I loved this first book and cannot wait to read the next three I have to review.

5 stars for sure.

Disclosure: I received this book for my open and honest opinion. The opinions expressed here are 100% my own and may differ from yours.

Where to find the author:

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Book Blast Giveaway: Mrs. D's books-$50 Amazon or Payal

This a promotional post for author, Mrs. D and her books. I was not compensated in anyway for this post other than a link on the Rafflecopter. The opinions expressed here are not mine and only a part of this promotion.

About book 1

Title: The Trees Have Hearts | Author: Mrs. D | Publication Date: March 31, 2014 | Publisher: Mrs.D. Books Publisher | Number of pages: 41 | Recommended age: 6 to 10 Summary: A Mom's Choice Award Winner The story of a young girl, left friendless because she could not speak a new language, will touch your heart. It will take your child into the imaginary world of a little girl who moved to America from a different country. Unable to speak English, the lonely girl could not find friends. She lived in an old house with a small garden, where three blooming trees and the mysterious wind became her first imaginary friends. The garden friends developed a wonderful friendship with the lonely girl, and helped her overcome her fears and worries. Through the story, they taught her how to make real friends and helped her cope with difficult moments while adapting to new surroundings. Unforgettable characters will open a beautiful imaginary world to young readers, inviting them to share the fears, tears and joys of a little girl. The story will teach the true meaning of friendship while showing readers the beauty of nature. This book will open an unknown imaginary world through the eyes of a child...

Book Trailer

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About Book 2

Title: The City Kittens and the Old House Cat | Author: Mrs. D | Publication Date: July 11, 2013 | Publisher: Dog Ear Publishing | Number of pages: 37 | Recommended age: 6 to 10 Summary: This story revolves around Christmastime and a family who once adopted a lost kitten, naming it Nyda. Nyda has now grown old and has settled into a calm, uneventful life with her new family-until the day before Christmas, when the family's older daughter brings two playful kittens, Mickey and Jack, home for the holidays. The two kittens from the big city are a change for the family, and for Nyda. The old cat likes her settled life and is not happy about the new arrivals. She's also very protective of her belongings. The city kittens annoy her, and the old cat grumbles about the new additions to the family- until she hears a story one night that makes her feel bad. The kittens aren't the soft or spoiled brats she had thought they were . .

Book Trailer

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The Buzz

The Trees Have Hearts: "This is a lovely book for young girls, and especially young girls who face loneliness because of being in a new place. They are sure to find peace and encouragement in the special values taught in The Trees Have Hearts. Mrs. D does a wonderful job of reaching out to kids in a unique way in this book. The beautiful trees give warmth and peace as they spread their blooms throughout the garden and into the hearts of those who read this book." ~ Joy Hannabass, Readers' Favorite

The Trees Have Hearts: "In The Trees Have Hearts, Mrs. D. demonstrates love, compassion and a touch of mystical ability as she manifests what the trees might say, if they spoke to a lonely little girl. Then again, maybe she writes to alert us all to listen with our hearts. I highly recommend this book." ~ 5 Star Review, sunnyrock, Amazon

The Trees Have Hearts: "The author writes a lovely story about a lonely little girl with a great big imagination. She turns her beautiful garden into her sanctuary of imaginary friends that remain in her heart and follow her into adulthood. The lessons to be learned in this story is love of nature, respect for nature and changes of nature from one season to the next. Just as children go through many changes from season to season. This would be a good bedtime story. reading a few pages each night nurturing your child's imagination and leaving them with sweet dreams." ~ 5 Star Review, It's Time to Read Mamaw, Amazon

The City Kittens and the Old House Cat: "The City Kittens and the Old House Cat is an inspiring story written from a cat's point of view. The story can be understood by all pet lovers. The book has some beautiful and colorful illustrations. That makes the book very attractive and visually appealing, something which all the kids love. Children's books should be colorful and bright. The message of tolerance is very important in the current living situation. The book has a nice moral which can be explained to children and they can be asked to practice it too." ~ 5 Star Review, Mamta Madhavan, Readers' Favorite

The City Kittens and the Old House Cat: "Snuggle up in front of the fire and share this sweet kitty tale with your little ones. Bright, richly detailed illustrations bring the story to life as the old cat learns to accept two little intrusions. Fun book to put on your wish list, especially around the holiday season. A delight for any cat or animal lover!" ~ 5 Star Review, CLMurphy, Amazon

The City Kittens and the Old House Cat: "Mrs. D. weaves wonderful lessons of acceptance, adoption and not judging other people without getting to know them into this sweet children's picture book. I highly recommend it for young children." ~ 5 Star Review, P.J. LaRue, Amazon

 

About the Author: Mrs. D

Mrs. D. (Olga D’Agostino), an award-winning children’s author, was born in western Ukraine. She lived in the historical city of Lviv, where she studied business in Lviv Business College and worked in the food industry. In 1992, she immigrated to the USA with her two small daughters and for years worked in her own business. In 2011, she began her career as a writer, focusing on writing children’s books that have meaning and provide valuable lessons. Two of her children’s books, The Trees Have Hearts and Good Morning, World!, won Mom’s Choice Awards in 2013. She is a member of SCBWI and speaks a few languages fluently. She lives in the famous town of Smithville, NJ, with her husband Patrick and a meticulous old cat named Nyda. Published books by Mrs. D. include Carlo the Mouse on Vacation, The Trees Have Hearts, The City Kittens and the Old House Cat, Good Morning, World!, and Carlo the Mouse, Book 1: Too Many Rules for One Little Mouse and The Little Girl Praying on the Hill(a short story for an older audience). Coming in 2014: The Royal Palmand Carlo the Mouse, Book 2: Now We're Talking! The full series of Carlo the Mouse and her new books, The Mysterious Life Inside a Closet, That Is How Things Are (two connected stories): The Autumn Wind, and The Kitten and the Sparrow, and three rhyming stories in Who Is Most Important in the Fridge? will be published in the near future. Her books are available in print on Amazon and Barnes & Noble, and as e-books for most popular electronic devices. For updates on Mrs. D.’s books, please visit her website: www.mrsdbooks.net.

 Twitter | Facebook | Goodreads | Amazon Author Page

 

* $50 Book Blast Giveaway *

Prize: $50 Amazon Gift Card or PayPal cash (winner’s choice) Contest ends: June 10, 11:59 pm, 2014 Open: Internationally How to enter: Please enter using the Rafflecopter widget below. Terms and Conditions: NO PURCHASE NECESSARY TO ENTER OR WIN. VOID WHERE PROHIBITED BY LAW. A winner will be randomly drawn through the Rafflecopter widget and will be contacted by email within 48 hours after the giveaway ends. The winner will then have 72 hours to respond. If the winner does not respond within 72 hours, a new draw will take place for a new winner. Odds of winning will vary depending on the number of eligible entries received. This contest is in no way sponsored, endorsed or administered by, or associated with Facebook. This giveaway is sponsored by the author, Mrs. D and is hosted and managed by Renee from Mother Daughter Book Reviews. If you have any additional questions – feel free to send and email to Renee(at)MotherDaughterBookReviews(dot)com
Additional disclosure: Naila Moon of Reading Authors has been asked to promote this book blast and giveaway. I am not responsible for prize shipment.

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Giveaway: Blog Tour for GG & Mamela

 

About the Book

Title: GG and Mamela | Author: Belinda Brock | Illustrator: Avi Katz | Publication Date: April 15, 2014 | Publisher: Lamb Press | Pages: 32 | Recommended Ages: 4 to 10 Summary: This picture book celebrates the loving relationship between Lily and her great-grandmother (GG) as her life starts to slow and wind down in hospice. GG and Mamela illustrates how strength and comfort can be found through love, family and tradition. This book offers a gentle and open-ended way to start a conversation about death and dying, as well as introduce the concept of hospice care. The talented, award-winning artist, Avi Katz, provides beautifully-rendered illustrations that perfectly complement this heartwarming story. The book concludes with GG's recipe for chicken soup and an afterword by clinical psychologist Dr. Laura Brock.  

Purchase

Amazon | Author Website

 

The Early Buzz

"...simple but emotionally resonant illustrations...a nice, true-to-life touch...The book pairs an ethereal illustration with lyrical text, which truly captures the healing, transporting power of music in this setting. A welcome addition to children's literature about death and dying." ~ Kirkus Reviews

"This book is beautifully written and illustrated. The author takes a difficult subject and weaves a story full of life lessons. The universal themes of life, death, family, loss,and chicken soup are shared through a child's eyes and remind us that even after one dies, love remains." ~ Jamie O'Malley, President and CEO, Midwest Palliative and Hospice CareCenter

"GG and Mamela is a large helping of Chicken Soup for the heart and soul. It helps children cope with the death of a loved one in gentle and understanding terms. Belinda Brock has done a great service for children and parents alike." ~ Rabbi Evan Moffic, Spiritual Leader of Congregation Solel and Author

"This is a WONDERFUL story for families who are grappling with loss, death and dying. This is a wonderful story about a special relationship between a girl and her great grandmother at the end of her beautiful life. Very moving story, perfect for children!!" ~ 5 Star Review, Laura, Goodreads

 

About the Author: Belinda Brock

Currently a writing coach and free-lance editor, Belinda Brock's background is in teaching and educational publishing. She loves the intersection of literature and art found in picture books and believes their appeal and benefit extend beyond childhood. She also enjoys farmers' markets, dreaming up soup recipes and Meatless Mondays. Although she didn't become a librarian as she once considered, she is the sponsor and steward of the Little Free Library in her city. She has been known to stay up past her bedtime reading. Belinda writes about literacy, children and books on her blog--grandbooking--at http://belindabrock.com and also at Highland Park Sun-Times where you can check out this great interview with Belinda.

| Facebook | Goodreads
 

* Blog Tour Giveaway *

Prize: $50 Amazon Gift Card or PayPal cash (winner’s choice) Contest ends: June 6, 11:59 pm, 2014 Open: Internationally How to enter: Please enter using the Rafflecopter widget below. Terms and Conditions: NO PURCHASE NECESSARY TO ENTER OR WIN. VOID WHERE PROHIBITED BY LAW. A winner will be randomly drawn through the Rafflecopter widget and will be contacted by email within 48 hours after the giveaway ends. The winner will then have 72 hours to respond. If the winner does not respond within 72 hours, a new draw will take place for a new winner. Odds of winning will vary depending on the number of eligible entries received. This contest is in no way sponsored, endorsed or administered by, or associated with Facebook. This giveaway is sponsored by the author, Belinda Brock and is hosted and managed by Renee from Mother Daughter Book Reviews. If you have any additional questions – feel free to send and email to Renee(at)MotherDaughterBookReviews(dot)com.

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Book Blog Tour Giveaway: Josh & The Gumshoe News Crew-$25 Amazon or Paypal

I have read this cute sudo-mystery book and the review is forth coming. Enjoy the views of others until then.
~Naila Moon

About the Book

Title: Josh and the Gumshoe News Crew: The Super Secret | Author: Melissa Perry Moraja | Publication Date: May 5, 2014 | Publisher: Melissa Productions | Pages: 154 | Recommended Ages: 6+ (read-aloud) Summary: Up until a few days ago, nothing extraordinary had ever happened in ten year old Josh Wunderkind’s life - except eating a whole pot of pasta by himself. But that all changed after a mammoth-sized bird hit him smack on the face with a glob of neon green bird poop, triggering his superhuman Wunderkind ability and leaving him with the responsibility of caring for a baby bird he named Max. Now Josh was just like his older brother and twin sister Madison-super extraordinary! But what Josh didn't realize was that being superhuman wasn't all fun and games. And things only got more complex in Josh’s life when his two siblings and a couple neighborhood friends persuade him to lead a super crime-solving, neighborhood news team—the Gumshoe News Crew. But not before they agree on the Super Secret and complete Gumshoe Boot Camp. Find out what the Super Secret is. Will the Gumshoe News Crew complete boot camp? Or will Josh let his team down?  

Purchase

Amazon | Barnes and Noble | iTunes

 

About the Author: Melissa Perry Moraja

Melissa Perry Moraja[/caption] Melissa Perry Moraja, Award-Winning Author and Founder of Melissa Productions, Inc., is an entrepreneurial mom, a multifaceted business woman, a creative producer, and an author and illustrator of numerous modern-fantasy children’s books and self-help books. And that’s just the beginning! Melissa also has published articles, appeared on television, been interviewed on radio, has spoken in front of hundreds of people, and held workshops at local schools, discussing creative learning, publishing and parenting. Her desire to make a difference in her four young children’s lives inspired her to leave her six-salary career at IBM in 2007 to become a full-time mom, children’s author, speaker, and consultant. Melissa spends her personal time coaching soccer and softball, painting, and coming up with fun art projects for her kids. She also blogs for Working Mother blog, has guest blogged for Charlotte Observer Mom’s Charlotte, and has her own personal blog at Not Your Ordinary Psychic Mom. Melissa is also committed to building awareness and support for type 1 diabetes. Her twin daughter was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes November 4, 2011. To learn more about Madison’s type 1 diabetes disease please read Madison’s Story. For more information about Melissa and her books, please visit http://www.melissaproductions.com and http://www.notyourordinarypsychicmom.com

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Facebook (Book Fan Page) | Twitter | Goodreads 

 

* Josh and the Gumshoe News Crew Blog Tour Schedule (2014) *

May 5

Mother Daughter Book Reviews (Launch & Review)

BeachBoundBooks (Review)

Bookworm for Kids (Review)

May 6

A Leisure Moment (Review)

Not My Circus, Not My Monkeys (Review)

May 7

Kay LaLone I Love Books (Review)

Brooke Blogs (Review)

May 8

Alwaysjoart (Review)

Chris Weigand, Author (Review)

The Hippie Bookworm (Review)

May 9

Let's Talk About Books (Review)

Sunshine, Bubbles & Books (Review)

May 10

Adalinc to Life (Review)

The World of ContestPatti (Review)

May 11

Oh My Bookness (Review)

Unschooling Mama (Review)

May 12

WS Momma Readers Nook (Review)

The Ninja Librarian (Review)

Kid Lit Reviews (Review)

May 13

Mel's Shelves (Review)

Heart of a Philanthropist (Review)

May 14

Once Upon a Time (Review)

We Are the DinoFamily (Review)

4 The Love of Books (Review)

May 15

Dawn's Disaster (Review)

Purple Monster Coupons (Review)

May 16

Nanna of 3 and Counting (Review)

Musings by Jay Faulkner (Review)

Lisa Cresswell (Author Interview)

May 17

Jemima Pett, Author (Review)

Storytime Books (Review)

May 18

The Squishable Baby (Review)

Stitch Says (Review)

 

* Blog Tour Giveaway *

Prize: $25 Amazon Gift Card or PayPal cash (winner’s choice) Contest ends: June 3, 11:59 pm, 2014 Open: Internationally How to enter: Please enter using the Rafflecopter widget below. Terms and Conditions: NO PURCHASE NECESSARY TO ENTER OR WIN. VOID WHERE PROHIBITED BY LAW. A winner will be randomly drawn through the Rafflecopter widget and will be contacted by email within 48 hours after the giveaway ends. The winner will then have 72 hours to respond. If the winner does not respond within 72 hours, a new draw will take place for a new winner. Odds of winning will vary depending on the number of eligible entries received. This contest is in no way sponsored, endorsed or administered by, or associated with Facebook. This giveaway is sponsored by the author, Melissa Perry Moraja and is hosted and managed by Renee from Mother Daughter Book Reviews. If you have any additional questions – feel free to send and email to Renee(at)MotherDaughterBookReviews(dot)com
Additional disclosure: Naila Moon of Reading Authors is not responsible for prize shipment and was asked to promote this giveaway. I received a copy of this book and that review is forth coming.
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