Review of The Director's Cut!

The Director's Cut by Janice Thompson is the third and final book in the Contemporary Romance and Comedy series Backstage Pass (see my review for the second book here).

Tia Morales is kind of a control freak. I mean, she's the director of an extremely popular family sitcom, so she's gotta be good at taking charge, right? When things start turning out in ways Tia wouldn't have planned it to, she's forced to confront the not-so-controlled areas of her life. Even her perfect world of director-hood isn't turning out as planned! With script changes, guest stars, secret snitches, health emergencies, and her sister joining her on the set, Tia's got her hands full. Not to mention the cute camera guy, Jason, whose annoying qualities are started to seem less annoying. Yikes!

Can Tia learn to surrender her life's script to God? 

I really liked the flow of the three books of the series. They are all their own story, yet all three books mesh chronologically. Although this book isn't my favorite in the series, the main character, Tia, has her own zest and trait she has to overcome. I absolutely loved seeing the old characters, especially Lorena and Kat. The movie quotes and trivia are just as added bonus to the book! There's humor, seriousness, and spiritual truth.

As I mentioned before, this book was good but not my favorite. I couldn't completely connect with the story, and it wasn't as engaging or as comedic as the other books were. However, the storyline was neat, clean, and I did want to read it.

All in all, I rate this book four out of five stars.

Available June  2012 at your favorite bookseller from Revell, a division of Baker Publishing Group.

Specifics (from amazon.com)
~Paperback: 320 pages
~Publisher: Revell (June 1, 2012)

Note: Thanks to the publisher for providing me with a free copy of this book for reviewing purposes. 

Blessings,
~Prism~

Review of Moonblood!

Moonblood by Anne Elisabeth Stengl is the third book in the fantasy series Tales of Goldstone Wood (see my review for the second book here).

Moonblood picks up right where Veiled Rose left off. We see Prince Lionheart grappling with the strong man he could be and the weak excuse maker that he has so easily become. Desperate to keep his position as heir to the throne, Lionheart decides to get rid of the one person that drives his people away but is yet his only true friend. Prince Lionheart banishes his loyal servant, Rose Red. Little does he know the chain of events that will go into motion the minute Rose Red walks away.

She is captured by her father in the enchanted and hidden land of Arpiar, a dark place hidden by veils. A guilty Lionheart plunges in after Rose Red, determined to make his wrong right. But how far is he truly willing to go? Is he even willing to die for her sake?

A captive princess. A cynical orange cat. A struggling prince. A fallen unicorn. A goblin horde. A mystical wood.

A world's future at stake.

Once again, the author has done an incredible job detailing and making the setting and characters come to life. I absolutely loved Rose Red and "Monster"; they were definitely my favorite characters. The new characters were vibrant and unique. Although I and some readers will hold a dislike for Lionheart, we can see his humanity and struggle with right and wrong. His struggle is a main part of the book(s), and I believe the author handled it masterfully. I can't wait to read the next book, Starflower, set to be released fall 2012!

I wasn't a huge fan of the ending, but I think it could very well be a great interest catcher for the next book. Also, I wish we could have seen more of Una, who was the main character of the first book, but I believe the author could also detail it in Starflower. To be honest, so far in the series, this book is ranked third on my list, with Veiled Rose being first and Heartless being second.

Super excited for the next book, though!

All in all, I rate this book four out of five stars. 

Specifics (from amazon.com):
~ Paperback: 373 pages
~ Publisher: Bethany House Publishers (April 1, 2012)

Note: Thanks to the publisher for providing me with a free copy of this book for reviewing purposes.

Blessings,
~Prism~

Song Obsessed!

That ever happen to you? You get a song in your head and just can't get it out? But it's not a bad thing because you actually really like the song! Well, that's been the case for me and Coldplay's "Paradise". Absolutely love it although, yes, I lost some respect after seeing the music video... Really? Elephants?

Anyways, I must share with you!







Blessings,
 ~Prism~

Review of Crazy Dangerous!

Crazy Dangerous is the new suspense/action YA novel by Andrew Klavan (author of the Homelanders Series, see my reviews of books two, three, and four). I know it's been a while since I've posted, but I'm going to let this book take the spotlight this time. Because it is that good, my dear readers.

Synopsis:

"You probably want to hear about Jennifer and the demons and how I played chicken with a freight train and-oh yeah-the weird murder . . . you're definitely going to want to hear about that."

Sam Hopkins is a good kid who has fallen in with a bad crowd. Hanging around with car thieves and thugs, Sam knows it's only a matter of time before he makes one bad decision too many and gets into real trouble.

But one day, Sam sees them harassing an eccentric schoolmate of his named Jennifer. When Sam finds the courage to face the bullies down, he loses a bad set of friends and acquires a very strange new one.

Because Jennifer is not just eccentric. To Sam, she seems downright crazy. She has terrifying hallucinations involving demons and the devil and death. And here's the really crazy part: Sam is beginning to suspect that these visions may actually be prophecies--prophecies of something terrible that's going to happen very soon. Unless he can stop it.

With no one to believe him, with no one to help him, Sam is now all alone in a race against time. Finding the truth before disaster strikes is going to be both crazy and very, very dangerous.

My Opinion:
Fear nothing. Do right. These two statements are the main theme of this book. As the main character, Sam, has to muddle through what he believes is right and wrong and what his response should be, he is put into some extraordinary circumstances. I mean, what other preacher's kid would start hanging around car thieves, befriend an eccentric girl who mutters his name like a magic word and seems to see the future, sneak out of his house several times, and build up the courage to talk to his crush?

Okay, okay, this book is a little far-fetched, but that's the point of most fiction, right?

I like the clash of science and spirituality in this book. When it comes to Jennifer, Sam has to figure out where he draws the line between the two, or if he does at all. This book does address that but lets the reader decide what they believe. Also, this book is not overtly "preachy".

I was absolutely hooked from page one. The author does an excellent job of keeping a fast pace while grabbing the reader's attention and not stopping to explain frivolous details. I literally could not put this book down. Thank goodness I was reading this on a Friday, because I stayed up late to finish it!

Samantha is definitely an intriguing character. Since I'm interested in medicine, I like how the possibility of a medical condition came into play. The author did an amazing job getting into her head and making it all so unique.

The book is eery. Ominous, even. Totally gripping, and eventually, shocking.

You don't want to miss out on reading Crazy Dangerous!

~Specifics (from amazon.com)
~ Hardcover: 336 pages
~ Publisher: Thomas Nelson (May 1, 2012)

Don't just take my word for it! Check out other reviews here!

Andrew Klavan's Crazy Dangerous $100 Visa Cash Card Giveaway and Author Chat Party {5/29} Enter Today - 5/8-5/28!

Note: Thanks to Litfuse and the publisher for providing me with a free copy of this book for reviewing purposes.

Blessings,
~Prism~

Jammin' Out

...to my latest obsession: Christian rap.

Lecrae, Tedashii, ect... I wasn't too much into it before, but now I'm in love.

Okay, so I know this won't be popular to everyone, and I acknowledge that. But a lot of these lyrics are pretty good and Biblically sound.











Here's just a few, but now that you've listened to my small sampling, what are your thoughts?

Do you like Christian rap? If so, why? If not, why? Feel free to share your thoughts.

Blessings,

Review of The Rose of Winslow Street

The Rose of Winslow Street by Elizabeth Camden is the story of love in unexpected places. Libby Sawyer and her father are enjoying a relaxing time at their summer home when their house is in turmoil. Romanian Michael Dobrescu is new to American soil, but he has one goal in mind. Claiming the house that should be rightfully his. However, that house happens to be Libby's house. As the town is in confusion about the rightful owner, Libby finds herself torn between the two families. Although she doesn't understand Michael's ways, he is a strong man who cares strongly for his fragile sister and his motherless children. As the tension grows and Libby doubts herself, more and more of Michael's true history is made known, and secrets are no more. Soon, the rightful owner of the house becomes trivial, and it's Libby's heart that is at stake.

This book is definitely interesting. There are more points of intrigue than just the matter of who gets the house in the end. It was a great idea to center the book around a house but make it so much more; each person has a unique, strong tie to the house either directly or indirectly. I liked the aspect of a foreigner in the story and that sudden breaking of tradition that pushes everyone to think about the former status quo. Libby is a good leading lady; her insecurities make her relatable and likeable. I feel like her character was very thought out and well-balanced, and her relationship with her father was interesting to read about. I also loved the character of Mirela, in fact, she was my favorite character in this book. Her strength and inner beauty shone through and really contributed greatly to the storyline.

That said, I have to say that this book was doing great until it turned into a romance. I didn't feel like I knew Michael at all through the storyline and suddenly, BAM! romantic tension! Certainly, he seemed like a strong and chivalrous character, but he never seemed as human as Libby did. I wish it could have been crafted differently because this book had many strong points, but unfortunately, the romance was not one of them. Some things to be aware of is that the book gives the story of a violent, violating attack on a woman. It does not go into detail, but her character is a big part of the book.

All in all, I rate this book 3.5 stars out of 5.

Specifics (from amazon.com)
~Paperback: 342 pages
~Publisher: Bethany House Publishers(January 1, 2012)

Note: Thanks to the publisher for providing me with a free copy of this book for reviewing purposes.

Review of Promise Me This

Promise Me This by Cathy Gohlke is a historical fiction book about the voyage of the Titanic and the story of the three lives that were deeply affected due to the tragedy.

Owen Allen is determined to make a new life for himself and his sister in America, away from their controlling and manipulative aunt. With the seeds in hand to plant a new life (literally), Owen embarks on the Titanic, leaving his little sister, Annie, behind. Michael Dunnagan is a young orphan who wants desperately to escape the life of poverty, orphanhood, and abuse he has known so long. One day, he meets a young gardener, Owen, who shows unexpected kindness towards Michael and shows him that there's hope for a better life. Annie Allen is a lonely, petulant girl who is deeply annoyed with her brother's newfound friendship with Michael, and she is quick to tell her brother of her negative opinions, much to his dismay.

When the Titanic sinks and lives are lost, Michael finds himself alone and feels undeserving of Owen's sacrificial gift to him. Yet Owen's gift results in the inexplicable entwining of two lives- Annie's and Michael's. Michael is now determined to fulfill Owen's dreams and bring Annie to safety in America. By corresponding through letters, Michael is able to help Annie heal from the pain and anger of Owen's death, and their letters soon lead to something more. Soon, Owen is able to bring Annie to America with the funds he so painstakingly earned. However, an evil aunt, an ocean, and the beginning of a world war separates any communication, and Annie's letters no longer come. Desperate to find her, Owen risks his life to find the woman he loves.... but at what cost?

Simply stunning. This book is one of my all-time favorites. When I finished the last page and slowly shut the book, I could only say, "Wow." This story is so poignant, so beautifully written to express deep emotions and vivid images of the story as it progresses. I felt as if I were viewing a movie with this book, everything was so vivid. I enjoyed growing up with the characters. We see them develop from childhood to adulthood and overcome their personal issues. The challenge and beauty of a well-written historical novel is that it must be well-written, historically accurate, and enjoyable. This book is all three. I was hooked from page one until the end.

I rate this book five out of five stars. 

Specifics (from amazon.com):
Paperback: 416 pages
Publisher: Tyndale House Publishers (January 20, 2012)
Author website:  http://www.cathygohlke.com
Publisher website: tyndale.com

Note: Thanks to the publisher for a free copy of this book for reviewing purposes.

Blessings,

Happy Valentines Day!

Happy Valentines Day from me to you! I hope you truly enjoy today. Whether it be with your significant other, friends, family, pets, or even by yourself (even though that never happens, right? You've got Him!!!)

Love's a beautiful thing, celebrate it!



Blessings,

Review of When the Smoke Clears

When the Smoke Clears by Lynette Eason is the fictional story of a smokejumper who's past is as smoky as what she faces when battling fires. When Alexia Allen's job becomes in jeopardy due to equipment failure, she is forced to  move into her mother's house and attend a high school reunion. Doesn't sound bad, right? But it seems trouble can't stay away from Alexia. Upon her arrival, terrible things begin to happen that put her life and the lives of those she loves at risk. In steps Detective Graham, her childhood crush, to solve the crimes. But when evidence and circumstance begin to point at Alexia, who can she trust?

Even worse, the crimes are forcing Alexia to dig deeper into her past. Will she be able to let her secrets come to life to catch the person responsible for the heinous acts?

This book was so engaging. I am a huge fan of Lynette Eason, so I jumped at the chance to review this book. I was definitely not disappointed. The pacing was brilliant: not too fast to overwhelm, but not to slow to be able to put down either. I really like the character of Alexia. Her past isn't crystal clear: she isn't perfect. That vulnerability makes her very endearing, yet she has the spunk to do things like fight fires and find the criminal responsible for all of the crimes. Speaking of which, I was so guessing who it was until the very end. I was not able to guess who that was, and I was shocked!

A must read. Highly recommended, five out of five stars.

Specifics (from amazon.com)
~Paperback: 352 pages
~Publisher: Revell (February 1, 2012)

Note: Thanks to the publisher for providing me with a free copy of this book for reviewing purposes!

Blessings,

Review of The Mysterious Epigenome

The Mysterious Epigenome by Thomas E. Woodward and James P. Gillis is a nonfiction book about information beyond DNA.

The beautiful spiraled structure of DNA has fascinated scientist for years as they have slowly unraveled its secrets about life. Now, the study of epigenetics has become a subject of interest. Epigenetics is the study of DNA expression, such as why traits in the DNA are evident in a person physically (phenotype). In genetics, the "library" of information is stored in the genome and is perfectly identical in different types of cells. However, in epigenetics, there is as much epigenome variance as there are cell variance. The epigenome may be passed down through hereditary means like the genome, but there is a difference. The epigenome can be altered with lifestyle changes. As we delve deeper and deeper into what makes us, humans, us, we begin to question our origins... and even the meaning to our existence.

This book explores this and so much more.

Doesn't that just give you chills of excitement? If not, bear with me.

This book delves into the deeper consequences of the field of epigenetics to health, science, and spirituality. I'll be addressing the scientific content in this review:

I've always been interested in cells and how they work, especially when it comes to genetics. Therefore, most of this information was familiar to me, with the exception of what epigenetics is and how it all works. Yes, the field of genetics is very complex, and to be honest, much of what can ever be explained only skims the surface of what's occurring daily in our bodies. That doesn't mean you have to have a degree in genetics or microbiology in order to understand this book! You will be introduced to many cellular "friends". From the ribosome, to the nucleus, to little cellular "robots", the book beautifully illustrates the anatomy and physiology of the cell using a fictional research lab to give you the opportunity to learn about the cell. It uses engaging examples to draw parallels from the structures to items the reader will be familiar with. It also gives solid references to proven resources that a reader may explore. I'm a very visual person, so I was very appreciative of the illustrations and charts throughout the book. There's even a six page insert with color photographs to help readers further picture items of interest. Overall, this book is very readable with excellent scientific information.

I have never before truly thought about the field of epigenetics. In my study of genetics, it has always been, "this allele (bit of genetic instruction that is generally paired. one half from mom, one half from dad) is dominant, therefore is it expressed", but I've never really considered the deeper why and the deeper how. This book does that excellently and in a manner the reader will be able to understand. It also goes into the controversial debate of evolution vs. intelligent design, a topic which I must admit has intrigued me from a young age.  I believe, intelligent design proponent or evolutionary proponent, it's important to keep an open mind when reading what you believe is right and what you believe is wrong. I'm not going to go into my personal opinion, but I will address the book's. This book is openly pro-intelligent design; the authors outrightly say that unapologetically. They cite many noted and respected scientists in the field to build an argument about intelligent design and its correlation to epigenetics. Intelligent design (ID) is not touted as creationism, in fact, the authors are quick to point out that ID is not creationism. ID is the amassing of scientific information to prove the complexity of life to indicate the presence of a designer, but it does not desire to address who that designer may be. Whether you believe in ID or are opposed to it, I believe this book is very important to read to be able to know the opinions that are out there to be able to either logically and analytically defend or reject it.

All in all, a very engaging read that I recommend to anyone interested in science, learning more about epigenetics, or wanting to know more about the ID vs. evolution debate. I rate this book five out of five stars.

Specifics (from amazon.com):
Paperback: 160 pages
Publisher: Kregel Publications (December 1, 2011)

Note: Thanks to the publisher for providing me with a free copy of this book for reviewing purposes.

Blessings,

Freedom Is Here

Don't you wanna sing it too? "Sing it out, sing it out...Freeeeedommmmmmmm Is Heeeeere!!!!"

Love this song.

"Freedom Is Here" - Esterlyn



Blessings,

Review of Alienation

Alienation by Jon S. Lewis is the second book in the sci-fi young adult C.H.A.O.S. series, which is based on the biblical story of David. (See my review for the first book here) Colt McAlister is just beginning to get past the shock of his parent's death and defeating aliens in charge of a super-corporation. A world he once though wasn't possible- one filled with aliens and very advanced technology that enables flying, mind control, and many other things- is quickly becoming the reality of earth. As the Thules, a type of alien, becomes more dangerous in their mission to take over the world, some believe that Colt and his friends Oz and Danielle may be able to stop them.

But there are some that will stop at nothing less to kill Colt McAlister. Dangerous, seemingly random acts against Colt are rapidly being carried out, but who is responsible behind it all? Meanwhile, Colt and his friends are recruited to become C.H.A.O.S. agent trainees, and Colt makes some shocking discoveries about himself and his friends.

Can he trust anyone anymore? And is he really the one chosen to stop the alien invasion?

I love the fast-paced storyline. This book carries smoothly from the last book, and the characters are as original as ever. The whole idea of C.H.A.O.S. and the alien invasion is pretty unique, and what's even more unique is that it's based on the life of David! I didn't know this until I was told, but I saw some of the similarities when I read. I'm glad that the author keeps the story original while still being able to incorporate some parallels from David's life. I'd have to say my favorite character is Danielle. She's very intelligent and loyal, and her computer know-how is a great addition to the story. The dynamics between Colt, Oz, and Danielle is excellent. They are the ideal team. Oz with his strength and alien-know-how, Danielle with her computer skills, and Colt as the strong, likable leader. Some things that I felt improved from the last book was dialogue with Colt's grandfather and more faith. We get to know Colt's grandfather better, especially in a scene where Colt is given a special medallion that meant much to his grandfather. Also, we see more of their Christian faith in this book. It's not preachy, but it's there and affects their decisions to do right. I liked that.

All in all, I rate this book five out of five stars.

Specifics (from amazon.com):
~Hardcover: 288 pages
~Publisher: Thomas Nelson (January 3, 2012)

Note: Thanks to the publisher for providing me with a free copy of this book for reviewing purposes.

EXTRAS!

About the Author:
Jon S. Lewis is the coauthor of the Grey Griffins trilogy (over 500,000 books in print) and the upcoming Grey Griffins Clockwork Chronicles. He also writes for the DC COMICS family of publishers. He resides with his family in Arizona.

For more about Jon and the series, visit www.chaosnovels.com.

~*~

The invasion was only the beginning! Jon Lewis is celebrating the next
adventure in his fast-paced C.H.A.O.S. series with an explosive giveaway!

One thrill-seeker will receive:

• iPad2 with Wi-Fi
• Copies of the C.H.A.O.S. novels, Invasion and Alienation

Enter today by clicking one of the icons below. But hurry, the giveaway
ends at noon on February 7th. Winner will be announced at the Alienation Facebook Party
on 2/7. Jon will be hosting an Author Chat, giving away copies of the books and
gift certificates to iTunes and Amazon.com! Don't miss a second of the intrigue!



Grab your copy of Alienation and join Jon on the evening of February 7th for an
author chat, spy training (How much do you know about alien invaders?) and lots of
giveaways. 

Don't miss a moment of the fun. RSVP today and tell your friends
via FACEBOOK or TWITTER and increase your chances of
winning. Hope to see you on the 31st!

Blessings,

Review of Chasing Mona Lisa

Chasing Mona Lisa by Tricia Goyer and Mike Yorkey is a historical novel about the nearing of the end of WW2 and the race to get the priceless Mona Lisa. The setting is Paris. As the resistance grows stronger and the Nazis are driven back, a top official in the Third Reich is determined to steal as many art pieces as he can. However, he has not yet achieved his biggest goal and huge postwar bargaining chip- the famous Mona Lisa painting.

Yet she has eluded him still with the help of one determined protector who will not allow her to be kidnapped by the enemy. Yet the Nazis are becoming closer and closer to discovering her location. Gabi Mueller and Eric Hofstadler, Swiss OSS agents, must race against time to get to the Mona Lisa before it falls into German hands.

This book was fast-paced, and it was obvious that the authors had done extensive historical research. The characters are clear, and I felt as if I were watching, not reading, a historical show or movie. The details are that clear. The characters were all determined and dedicated, and the last part of the book is really intriguing to readers to see how everything resolves in the end. It was nice to get a glimpse into WW2.

I picked up this book expecting the best. Tricia Goyer is a great author, the book is historical, it's a race for the Mona Lisa... who wouldn't be intrigued? That said, I'm sad to say that I never really got to like any of the characters. There wasn't a buildup of sympathy or really getting to know the characters. Perhaps it is because this book is the sequel to a book titled The Swiss Courier, but I had to dig around to find that out. Fast-paced is a great thing, but not when it sacrifices the characters. I really had a hard time getting into the book, and it didn't become a "must-finish" until the very end. Also, there are some elements that would not be appropriate for young readers.

All in all, I rate this book three out of five.

Specifics:
~Paperback: 325 pages
~Publisher: Revell (January 1, 2012)

Note: Thanks to the publisher for providing me with a free copy of this book for reviewing purposes.

Blessings,

LOVE these videos :)