Book Review: Ella

 
About the book:
Reserved yet resilient, Ella Blakeley lives with her cruel stepmother and stepsisters, without hope of escape—until the day Prince Kenton announces a ball that changes everything. Even without mice, magic, or fairy godmothers, Ella might discover a life that’s better than she ever dreamed. This intricately woven twist on Cinderella is an enchanting book you won’t be able to put down.


About the author:
Jessilyn Stewart Peaslee was born the fourth of seven children to a family of avid readers, movie quoters, and sports fanatics. She graduated with a degree in English from Brigham Young University in 2004. She is a mother of five rambunctious, adorable boys and while you read this, she is probably folding laundry . . . or should be.

From Reidhead Randomness:

This was such a fun book!  My daughters (ages 13 and 11) read it and loved it!  It was a newer version of Cinderella.  It has lots of surprises, and familiar Cinderella things, but it is a super fun...NEW take on the story we all know so well.  It is well written, and a fun book to read!  It would be a great one for the Christmas break!

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NitroCircus is coming to town...SLC on Friday

The world's greatest live action sports event returns to North America this fall with an all-new show coming to the MGM Grand Garden Arena Saturday November 21st at 8 PM. Nitro Circus Live's latest creation takes things to another level, as the best athletes in freestyle motocross (FMX), BMX and more will unite for an all-new production. Starring 17-time X Games medalist Travis Pastrana, the tour will feature unbelievable tricks and insane stunts, plus a whole new repertoire of daredevil fun. 

Also, look out for a host of outrageous contraptions - including trikes, a tall bike, a lazy boy recliner and more - all launching from the new jet-powered Nitro Slingshot. 

To top it all off, for its latest event Nitro is going really retro, with the entire performance choreographed and styled as a 1920's three-ring circus. This stunning set will transport you into the past, to an eerily haunting Big Top. This all-new theme provides the perfect backdrop for the Nitro crew's aerial feats. 

Believe us when we say, you have never seen a circus like this before! www.NitroCircus.com

 

Dates for Upcoming Events:
Salt Lake City, UT: Friday November 20th - 7:30 PM
Las Vegas, NV: Saturday November 21st - 8:00 PM
Buy Tickets Now and Save for 2016 Tour! 
http://nitrocircus.com/tour-info/2016-north-american-summer-tour/

Review: Real Food Real Kitchens New York Cookbook

About the book:
After an award-winning career in television and magazines, Craig Chapman is pursuing his passion: telling the real stories of real food and the people and cultures that bring a dish to life. Based on his popular Create TV series, these recipes take you behind the scenes and into the kitchens of chefs who are using food to change the world.


About the author:
Craig Chapman published his first magazine at the age of 15, which was a handwritten, photocopied punk rock fanzine. He moved to New York after college and worked as a television and film Production Manager at Nickelodeon, MTV, VH1, Time Inc., and more. He also took time to work as a magazine Editor developing an MTV Magazine for Hearst, as a Fashion and Beauty Editor at InTouch Weekly during their inaugural year, and as a Lifestyle Editor for Seventeen.
Chapman owns OEG Media LLC which creates unscripted television, film, and multi-platform digital projects that highlight the lifestyle, drama, comedy, and challenges of real life. He is also the Founder and Producer of the national brand Real Food Real Kitchens which includes a TV series, yearly magazine, and daily web site. Real Food Real Kitchens is all about ‘Family, Food, Culture and History’; telling the story of a dish and the family and culture that bring it to life.

Book Review: Living A Beautiful Life on Less

 
About the book:
During her husband’s deployment to Iraq, Danielle found that she used shopping as a way to compensate for the loneliness of missing her husband. Unfortunately, the shopping habits she had learned as a teenager were destroying her peace of mind and endangering her family’s financial stability. When she realized that she could control the situation with a few habit changes, she went to work and reinvented her attitude toward money.
In the process, she has re-invented her financial future. Danielle makes her own eco-friendly cleaning supplies, shops at thrift stores, and plans food purchases carefully. Their home and cars are paid for and Danielle lives a blissful and domestic life with less of the “stuff” others seem to crave.
See how less can be more! Learn the secrets to living a rich and fulfilling life with less money, less stuff, and a lot less stress. Danielle teaches you how to simplify your life so you can actually enjoy the abundance all around you. From finances to green cleaning, you will discover your own blissfully simple life within the pages of this must-read book!


About the Author:
Danielle is a thrifty living blogger who blogs at blissfulanddomestic.com. She believes that the family is the most important unit and that when families live a frugal, debt-free life, they can be happy and joyful. She blogs every day about thrifty living, including meal plans, shopping thrift stores, “green cleaning” with inexpensive, homemade cleaning supplies, and more.

From Reidhead Randomness:

The DREADED 'B' Word!!!  It strikes fear into my heart faster than anything.....it makes my heart sink to the pit of my stomach, tears come to my eyes, panic course through my veins!!!  What is the dreaded 'B' word,  you ask....that would cause such emotion?  The word is BUDGET!  AHhhh!!!  My screams can be heard throughout all the land!

I am sure most of us could use some help with our daily finances...whether its grocery bills, smart shopping, or meal planning!  Living a Beautiful Life on Less is organized from what she feels is most important, to lesser importance.  It begins with the knee weakening BUDGET...right out of the gate!  The rest of the chapters weren't as brutal to me....How to cut your grocery bill, menu planning, debt, etc.  My MOST favorite sections were the 100 family fun night activities, and the 100 date night ideas for the year.  The ideas are great...and they will get you out of your "date rut."

This was a wonderful book that had many ideas and tips to be successful in your 'B' word, and may other FABULOUS areas!

I received a copy of the book in order to write my review, however all opinions expressed are my own.

Book Review: Casters of Doovik

About the book:
All her life, Meg has lived within Doovik’s walls—walls meant to keep the dangerous creatures outside from coming in. But when a curse drives her from Doovik, Meg and her friends must battle mythical monsters and follow clues to break the spell and get home. From the author of the Benotripia series, this thrilling fantasy will have your heart racing!


About the author:
McKenzie Wagner is 14 years old and already has four published books under her belt. An ambitious girl who began writing at the age of seven, McKenzie is best known for “The Magic Meadow and the Golden Locket,” published at age 10, and the Benotripia trilogy, the last book being released when she was 13. Inspiring thousands of kids to follow their dreams, McKenzie has visited several elementary schools across the state of Utah and done numerous book signings in Costco, Barnes & Noble, and Hasting stores. When she isn’t writing, McKenzie spends her time reading, acting, singing, hoping Peter Pan will take her to Neverland, and adding to her collection/army of stuffed animals.

From Reidhead Randomness:

My daughters have read the Benotripia series, and loved it!  This one was no different!  I love that this, as well as the Benotripia series are written by a very young girl (14 years old).  It is amazing, and exciting that such a young person can write so well....and creatively! This was an exciting adventure with monsters and spells!  What a great read!!!

Olde Westport Spice Company

 

Online specialty Food Company stands the test of time - Spice Company creates custom spice blends, sesonings and dry soups. Olde Westport Spice & Trading Company is a 33-year-old spice manufacturer that is still going strong. This online company operates a small plant in Goodland, Kansas, and knows a thing or two about spices, seasonings and soups. This family owned and operated company was originally founded in the Kansas City area and has stayed true to its mission of making custom spice blends for main meal dishes and appetizers as well as nearly 20 varieties of dry soups. The products are available online at www.oldewestportspice.com; at food-related craft and trade shows throughout the Midwest; and at gift and gourmet food shops. Olde Westport's spice blends and seasonings include Italian, Cajun, Taco, Fajita, Chili, Jalapeno, Beef Sauce, Salsa, Garlic and many more. All of the products use quality ingredients for a balanced flavor that compliments meats, pastas and vegetables. The company also invented dry soup mixes that are simple and easy to make including Antonio's Minestrone, Country-Style Creamy Potato, Chipotle Black Bean, Creamy Broccoli and Cheese, Kansas City Steak & Ale, Gold Coast Garlic Pasta Alfredo, Mesa Flats Chicken Enchilada, New Orleans Red Bean & Rice, Southwestern Tortilla, White Chili Soup and more. Olde Westport Spice and Trading Co. is owned and operated by Bill and Judy Petersen, who along with their daughter, Ann Myers, also own and run a restaurant (Westport Grill) in Goodland featuring the products. Bill first custom created all of the spices and seasonings in the kitchen of his home. Today the company has a manufacturing facility where Bill still researches and develops new recipes and dishes for future products. For more information or to place an order, please visit www.oldewestportspice.com or call 1-800-537-6470.





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Book Review: Papa's Book of Mormon Christmas

About the book:
Six-year-old Alice would rather get toys than a book any day. But when her grandfather explains that this book is different, Alice begins to see why their first-edition Book of Mormon is so special to her family. Set in the early 1900s, this charming story is the perfect picture book to read with your family as you gather round the Christmas tree.


About the author:

Emma Parker graduated summa cum laude from Southern New Hampshire University with a BA in English and Creative Writing. She was born and raised in Southern California and currently lives in Utah to work her dream job as an acquisitions editor for a publishing company. “Papa’s Book of Mormon Christmas” is her first book. You can learn more about Emma at emmaraeparker.com.

About the illustrator:
Alexa Terry Hanson is a true-blue California girl born in Chico, California. She discovered her talents at a young age, and as the years went by, her skills continued to develop. After a few years of college, she returned home and fell in love with her husband. They currently live in California, where she has had many experiences and opportunities as a freelance artist with companies such as TOMS Shoes and Disney Television Animation Studios. Every day she continues to create new characters and new worlds using her artistic talents, and she could not be happier.

From Reidhead Randomness:

Sometimes I get caught up in the "Holiday Spirit"...but the more material/superficial aspects of it.  Each year, I try to keep our family focused on the REAL meaning of Christmas.  It can be a challenge, as there are always SALES, DEALS, and Specials that are vying for your attention, and holiday money.  I was grateful for this cute book that helps remind us of the days of simpler Christmases, and help us focus on the things that matter the most...family and the gospel.  The story and illustrations make this a MUST read for your family during the holiday season.

Book Review: Party Style

About the book:
Make memories your children will treasure forever. As the creator of PartyStyle.com and editor-in-chief of Party Style magazine, Gemma Touchstone knows how to make children’s celebrations memorable. And with her help, you’ll want to find any excuse to party! Packed with easy and elegant DIY craft ideas, cool themes, and must-read entertaining tips, this book shows you how to party in style.


About the author:
Gemma Touchstone is a leading authority on global party styling trends from the early identification of up-and-coming party themes, to premier event styling, food presentation and is an early adopter of the social media revolution in her field. She’s the publisher and author of two stylist industry magazines, a leading industry blogger and has been a regular stylist for Hollywood stars from the movies and TV. Gemma has spoken about global party styling mega trends, blogging and the social media revolution at conferences and business events around the country.
As a publicity expert Gemma has worked with business owners, stylists and international companies that want to leverage the free publicity in traditional and social media to establish their credibility, enhance their reputation, promote new products, or get the word out about a favorite cause or issue.

From Reidhead Randomness:

As if you needed an excuse to have a PARTY!...well, sometimes you do, lol.  This SUPER fun book is stuffed FULL of tips and tricks of party planning, party style (with a quiz to help you figure out WHAT your party style is!), and MANY...MANY theme ideas!  There are lists of themes to help get your creativity flowing, or plenty of 'premade' ideas to just use.  THEN, there is the RECIPES!  Oh those glorious recipes!  I can't wait to try the Circus cake batter cookie dip from page 88!  There are fun snack/ food ideas that I wouldn't have EVER thought to do...and many I will include as regular meal ideas...not just reserved for parties (like the salad in a jar, and the pizza in a jar!)  I think the favorite idea at our house...was the Minecraft themed party!  This book is a wealth of ideas to use, and many more inspirations to get your own ideas flowing!  This book exudes FUN!

Book Review: From Baptist Preacher to Mormon Teacher

About the book:
Wain Myers thought he knew what he believed, but after a revelation from God, something had to change. This former Baptist preacher tells his fascinating story of following the Spirit’s voice and ultimately becoming a convert in the LDS church. This remarkable true story will inspire you to follow your own promptings and share truth wherever you find it.


About the authors:
Wain Myers is a native of Dayton, Ohio. He served in the United States Army in Bad Kissingen, Germany, where he received his call to the ministry. After his military career, he returned to the U.S. and began preaching at True Vine Missionary Baptist church, where he preached for over five years and was then introduced to The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints by his lovely wife Sebrina. He’s been an active member of the Church since 1995 and has served on his stake’s high council and as second counselor in the Genesis Group leadership.
Wain and Sebrina are the proud parents of seven amazing children; Le’Roy Jr., Isaiah (who recently returned from a full-time mission in the Louisiana Baton Rouge Mission), Bradford (and wife Paige), Quesley, Braxton, Spencer, and Ammon. Wain is a firm believer that no amount of success outside of the home can make up for failure inside the home. Check out his website at authorwainmyers.com.
Kelly L. Martinez has written about sports and entertainment for most of his professional career, though he has also dabbled in travel and tech articles. His writing has appeared in several national and regional publications, such as USA Today, the Los Angeles Times, Meridian Magazine, and the Deseret News. He comes from a long line of Mormon pioneers on his mother’s side and is of Hispanic, French, and Native American descent on his father’s. This is his first co-authorship and published book.

From Reidhead Randomness:
This inspiring, quick read will take you on the journey and trials of Brother Wain Myers as he moves from the Baptist Preacher life, to a brother in the Priesthood (in the LDS church).  It is so touching as he shares his experiences and testimony.  As the book goes back and forth between his Baptist life, and his LDS life, the story of each religion is shared with insightful perspective.  The wonderful, tender moments of life that Brother Myers shares is what makes this book so endearing.  In chapter 16, there is great advice to parents that have been through divorce, and how to handle 'exes.'   What a wonderful, though provoking, and inspiring book! 

Book Review: Out of the Ashes

About the book:
When Ashelandra’s father dies, she ends up a servant in her own house, instead of the Baroness she was supposed to become. But Ash’s secret sorcery could be the key to winning back her home and following her heart to a future she never imagined. This fantasy-infused Cinderella story puts a magical twist on a classic tale. Riveting and original, it’s a spellbinding read.


About the author:

Alicia Buck was born in Salt Lake City, Utah on a cold November day and has hated the cold ever since. Luckily, she lives in the desert now with her husband, Jason, and three children. Alicia loves to read, and goes through book craze phases where she reads a book a day until guilt kicks in and she tries to do something productive like get back to work writing and fix the disaster her home has become. She graduated from Brigham Young University with a bachelor’s in English, and had to constantly defend her major when she had absolutely no desire to teach. Out of the Ashes is Alicia’s second novel.

Book Review: Finding Peace

About the book:

What can you do when family members turn away from your cherished faith? How can you move from such powerful disappointment to a place of  peace? This book takes a thoughtful look at how you can face your new reality, hold on to hope, and stay connected with children who exercise agency in ways you would not choose for them. Uplifting and encouraging, this book is perfect for helping parents and grandparents alike to find the seemingly elusive peace they seek.

About the author:

Robin Zenger Baker has a psychology degree from Stanford University, an Organizational Behavior Master’s degree from BYU, and a PhD in Organizational Strategy from UCLA. She is currently studying Family Therapy and Counseling at UMass Boston. She has written for the Ensign magazine, and has edited and co-authored multiple publications in the field of organizational behavior. She is a past president of the BYU Alumni Association Boston chapter, and currently works to raise funds for local inner city youth to attend church schools.

From Reidhead Randomness:
 Agency is a gift from our Heavenly Father, but sometimes it is not always used for good.  As children grow up, and make choices, we don't always agree with them.  In this encouraging book, a wealth of advice is given, for keeping your family strong.  Also, advice for when to take action, and when to be still.  The scriptures, modern day revelation, and insights from "seasoned" parents are a big part of the book.  This is a great book to read for leaders in the youth organization, parents, and family of people that have make other choices. 

I enjoyed the 6th chapter that talked about some of the things to do to heal from someone exercising their agency.  One of them is assuming that you will be sad for the rest of your life.  Since that is not really an option, you have to realize that you can control your own emotions, that time will heal the hurt, and the other persons actions don't have to determine your mood forever.  Then to realize that holding onto sadness doesn't make a lot of sense, because life has so much to be happy about.

I received a copy of this book in order to write my review, however all opinions expressed are my own.

Book Review: Benotripia

About the book:
Discover the land of Benotripia–where adventure is around every corner. Now you can own Mackenzie Wagner’s debut fantasy series in one complete volume. Written when Mackenzie was in middle school, this thrilling series is perfect for middle grade readers. Join Roseabelle, Jessicana, and Astro as they use their magical powers to battle the Darvonians and save their home!


About the author:
McKenzie Wagner is thirteen years old and has adored reading since she was four. Her love of books inspired her to write a book of her own, and she completed the first book of The Magic Wall Series, The Magic Meadow and the Golden Locket at age seven and the second book, The Blue Lagoon and the Magic Coin, shortly thereafter. She has now expanded her writing to appeal to kids of all ages. She wishes to obtain an English degree and teach and continue in her pursuit of her love of writing. She currently resides in Utah with her mom, dad, and her nine-year-old brother, Ty.

From Reidhead Randomness:

It is so hard to believe that this fun adventure book was written when she was a young teenager!  This fun book collection of all 3 in the series has cute pictures at the top of each chapter.  The characters in the series are unique...just like the island of Benotripia. You will follow the adventures of  Roseabelle and her friends as they try to find her mother that disappeared.  There is magic, evil, action, and adventure in this exciting fantasy book!

My daughter is reading it right now, and I will update this post after she finishes reading it!

I received a copy of this book in order to write my review, however all opinions expressed are my own.

Book Review: French Accents

About the Book:
There’s nothing better than a little “joie de vivre” to brighten up your decor! Filled with gorgeous photography and an abundance of helpful design ideas, this book is guaranteed to bring the cozy comfort of classic French style into your home. Learn how to create an inviting look that will welcome friends and family and help you show off your own creative taste.
This beautiful book includes ideas for the beginner or the experienced interior designer who has a love for French or Country French design.
Joyce walks her readers through the process of analyzing a room prior to redecorating and then gives pointers for success, whether you intend to redecorate all at once or just by baby steps with one basket or lamp at a time. She includes tips and tricks for knowing where to shop for authentic French antiques, how to get the best deals at auctions, and how to re-purpose your existing decor to give it a “French” look.
Helpful tutorials for creating your own paint finishes and sewing slipcovers are included as well. You’ll also get the grand tour with photos of home interiors that use some of her techniques, including some that have “bent the rules” to bring in just enough rustic, chippy, casual French design to make the home livable and loveable.

About the Author:
Anita Joyce is the author of the Cedar Hill Farmhouse blog. Her expertise is in antiques, vintage items, rusty-crusty-chippy things, all things French, design, photography, and writing. She loves spending time with friends and family.





From Reidhead Randomness:

With and approachable, budget conscious attitude, this book is a wealth of wonderment!  It is overflowing with GREAT ideas, examples, and tips for decorating your home.  Usually when I think of home decorating, I think of EXPENSIVE...but in French Accents, it is VERY budget conscious.  There are so many fun things to spark your creative juices and get them flowing.  Anita Joyce, the author, wanted to convert her plain 70's suburban home into a country French retreat.  Unfortunately, she had 3 major obstacles: 1. She had only 1 French item.  2.  She had a tight budget.  3. She had no clue what made French design.  As she worked and studied, she gained a wealth of knowledge, that is so freely shared in this amazing book!  Most of the ideas are very affordable.  This great book is a resource to change your home from ordinary to EXTRAORDINARY!

I received a copy of this book in order to write my review, however all opinions expressed are my own.

Book Review: A Thankful Heart. 31 Teachings to recognize blessings in your life.

About the book:
Enjoy a happier, healthier life—starting with an attitude of gratitude! Research and revelation have both declared that staying thankful results in a host of benefits and blessings. You will be grateful for this book which contains a full month of ideas, quotes, and scriptures to get you feeling more grateful and help you see the Lord’s hand in your life.


About the author:

David A. Christensen has taught missionary preparation and Book of Mormon classes for over thirty years. His testimony and enthusiasm for the restored gospel was shared with missionaries and members in the Chile Santiago North Mission where he served as president, and again in Central America when he was president of the Guatemala Missionary Training Center. He counts his children and grandchildren as his most important converts, and his best friend and wife, Deena Bond Christensen, his eternal companion.

David Christensen's website is: http://author.davidachristensen.com. You can find more information there on how to order books, etc.

 

David's Facebook page is: https://www.facebook.com/ldsauthordavidachristensen?ref=hl 

 

He can be be followed on Instagram @david.a.christensen, you can follow him for updates on upcoming books, occasional giveaways, insights, and uplifting content.

From Reidhead Randomness:

Broken into simple, easy to read chapters, this uplifting book could easily be used as a daily devotional that will get you thinking about blessings in your life.  At the end of each little chapter are self examination questions (or journal writing prompts).  Inspiring stories, quotes from general authorities and scriptures, and insights abound in this small, but mighty book.  It will help you to count your blessings and tender mercies, instead of feeling abandoned and discouraged.  It will also help you to recognize the Lord's hand in your life.  On of my favorite writing prompts was "Whom do you know who's going through some challenges?  How can you lift that person?"  It also prompts you to thank, not only Heavenly Father, but also His children that provide help and answers to your prayers.  This will be a wonderfully uplifting 31 days!

I received this book in order to write my review, however all opinions expressed are my own.

Book Review: When Beauty is a Beast

About the book:
We have no qualms laying out men’s sins—especially abusive behavior. But we’ve avoided “going there” when it comes to women. This book offers advice to heal marriages and families where women display controlling behavior or create fear. It will help turn crumbling relationships into partnerships of love and trust.


About the author:

C.C. Sorensen is a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, and has served in many positions on both the ward and stake level. “When Beauty Is a Beast” grew out of Sorensen’s many years of counseling husbands and wives who were struggling with various relationship issues.

Reidhead Randomness:

When Beauty is a Beast is an interesting book.  In this book, written for women, it has many stories and examples of how women sabotage their marriages.  While it is written with a gospel-centered approach, I felt a little "bashed" by it.  I have been mulling over it, to see if it is just that "the guilty take the truth to be hard," but I felt quite picked on as a female.  It talks about how to avoid controlling your spouse, transferring blame, setting unreasonable expectations, and how to avoid all the different kinds of abuse.  It shares how to build up your husband, boyfriend, fiance, etc. instead of tearing them down.  There are lots of quotes from general authorities and from the scriptures that relate to marriage and relationships in general, that I found useful.  There were some tidbits that were also helpful, and I found that I have been guilty, here and there, of things discussed in the book, but I feel that marriage is a give and take, and this book points out all the bad things women do, without mentioning that husbands also are guilty of different things....but I guess that would be a whole different book.  Unless a woman is ready to change, I think this book would just be offensive, and put a woman on the defense, or make her feel bad...and there is a "disclaimer" at the back of the book that basically says if you are reading this book to improve your relationship, you need to be careful about taking things personally.  It does implore the women reading the book to set aside your pride, and do some soul searching.  I am sure all women are guilty of something from this book, sometime in their lives, but I guess I felt it too be a little to harsh of a woman bashing.  Overall, it made me grateful for my wonderful, patient, loving husband!

I received a copy of this book in order to write my review, however all opinions expressed are my own.

Review: Festive Feasts

About the book:
Tender prime rib, decadent cakes, and caramel popcorn that will have you licking the bowl-these holiday recipes are perfect for parties, neighbor gifts, and family gatherings. Jeni Scott has been featured by Woman’s Day, KSL Studio 5, and all over the Internet for her mouthwatering and easy-to-make holiday meals. So forget the fruitcake-these treats are so tasty you’ll want to start all-new traditions!


About the author:
Jeni Potter Scott is the owner, author, and creative mind behind Bakerette.com where she features daily recipes, gardening information, and DIY projects.
She is author of a cookbook Festive Feasts: Meals and Memories from Halloween to Christmas which is currently to press and will be distributed in September, 2015.
Jeni has been featured on KSL’s Studio 5, ABC’s Good Things Utah, and wowOwow.com created by Whoopi Goldberg, Lily Tomlin, Candice Bergen, Lesley Stahl and others.
Jeni has been a regularly featured contributor to CookingwithRuthie.com, The36thAvenue.com, and currently to MadeFromPinterest.net. She is a budding photographer and formerly was the photographer for AddyLou.com a subsidiary of Modern Display.
Jeni works full time as an Executive Assistant and currently volunteers her time for a local botanical garden where she serves as Vice President of Jordan Valley’s Home & Garden Club, the first of its kind in the Nation.

From Reidhead Randomness:
I wish this was made of waterproof paper...because it had me drooling.  The fun cookbook will inspire even the most uncreative people to have a fun holiday party!  The first section is Halloween that is overflowing with hauntingly tempting treats, appetizers and main dishes.  Next up is Thanksgiving.  This isn't your traditional Thanksgiving meal...it includes many recipes that would be great fall food!  It also has a great section to inspire the using up of leftovers from Thanksgiving.  The grand finale is Christmas.  This section covers Breakfast & Brunch, Appetizers, Entrees, and Sides.  The last chapter in the Christmas section is "Gifts from the Kitchen."  What a glorious way to finish off the book!  It is loaded with wonderful treats and goodies that will have your neighbors requesting your recipe!  Each recipe has a picture, as well as the prep time and cook time...so you know what your getting into.  I LOVE this book!  It can springboard you into being a party hosting expert! 

I received this book in order to write my review, however all opinions expressed are my own.

Book Review: Call To Arms: Nations Fall

 
About the book:
The Savior’s second coming is approaching and each member of the Williams family—along with all the other Saints—must decide whether to heed the call to gather. This tense novel takes place in the near future and dives into the wide-sweeping political, social, and religious drama of a family caught between life as it’s always been and a new beginning in Zion.


About the author:

Randy Lindsay is a native of Arizona. He lives in Mesa with his wife, five of his nine children, and a hyper-active imagination. His wife calls him the “Storyman” because he sees everything as material for a good story. Randy’s first novel, “The Gathering: End’s Beginning,” was published in 2014. He has also been published in several anthologies during 2013-2014. If you want to find out more, you can check him out at RandyLindsay.net.

From Reidhead Randomness:

In Call to Arms: Nations Fall the exciting story continues from The Gathering: End's Beginning (the previous book, although both books can be read as stand alone stories).  The story is set in the not too distant future where the world is descending into chaos.  What will that be like?  This intense story line gives us a glimpse of what may happen.  The end of the book comes too quickly and leaves you with plenty to think about.  While you ponder, there are a few thought provoking questions at the back of the book.  One of the questions to chew on is "What item or activity could you not leave behind or give up?"

It is quite the adventure!  It would be a good read for a book club because of the great discussions this book could evoke!




I received a copy of this book in order to write my review, however all opinions expressed are my own.