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Review: Storing Up Trouble by Jen Turano
April 22, 2022
Author: Jen Turano
Publisher: Bethany House
Page: 359
ISBN: 9780764231698
Publication Date: May 5th, 2020
About the Book:
After Miss Beatrix Waterbury suffers multiple mishaps due to her involvement with the suffrage movement, her mother decides a change of scenery is in order for her incorrigible daughter. Banished from New York, Beatrix is sent off for an extended stay with her Aunt Gladys in Chicago.Mr. Norman Nesbit, a gentleman and a brilliant man of science devoted to his work, doesn't have time to be distracted with members of the feminine set. When robbers descend on the train, intent on divesting him from his important research papers, Norman is thrust into Beatrix's company when she has the audacity to interfere--leaving him no choice but to try to save her from herself.When Beatrix's life is put at stake after she takes employment as a salesgirl, she and Norman find themselves propelled into each other's company again and again. With danger and intrigue dogging their every step, they become surprisingly drawn to each other--until information comes to light that threatens this relationship that's barely had a chance to blossom.
My Thoughts:
Jen Turano is one of my go-to-authors. I know that when I read one of her stories, I will get a witty and funny historical adventure with some of the best characters.
I got to enjoy this story on my commutes around town with my eldest. I think I now have her hooked on Jen Turano's books. She was giggling and asking questions the whole way through, which added to the fun of the story for me.
We were introduced to Beatrix in the earlier installments of the American Heiress series and she finally had her time to shine. And goodness did she shine! I have to say, this was one of my favorite jaunts through the pages. With Beatrix, she was joined by her aunt, her butler, a house full of ladies her aunt was training, and Norman Nesbit, who I have to say had the best growth of a character I have seen. He joined the ranks of one of my favorite heroes.
The chemistry between Norman and Beatrix was just fun. Norman was in his shell and Beatrix has always been comfortable being herself, which was instilled into her by her parents, who we are also introduced to in this story.
I love how Jen can weave historical people through her stories and just have them fit. In this book, we got see Mr. Selfridge at Marshalls and Company and Beatrix worked, in accordance to her aunt's rules who she was visiting.
My daughter and I enjoyed this story through the Audiobook, and it is a joy to listen to the narrator. She has a lot of fun reading these stories. And I love that it is the same narrator through the series.
This was a fun adventure and I can't recommend it enough.
5 out of 5
About the Author:
Thank you to the publisher, I received a copy of the book for free in exchange for an honest review.
Review: Diamond in the Rough
October 11, 2019
Author: Jen Turano
Publisher: Bethany House
Narrator: Andrea Emmes
Narration Time: 11hrs & 26min
Publication Date: September 3rd, 2019
About the Book:
When Miss Poppy Garrison accepts her grandmother's offer of financial help for her family in exchange for Poppy joining the New York social Season, she quickly realizes she is far less equipped to mingle with the New York Four Hundred than even she knew. As she becomes embroiled in one hilarious fiasco after another, becoming the diamond of the first water her grandmother longs her to be looks more impossible by the day.
Reginald Blackburn, second son of a duke, is in New York to help his cousin find an American heiress who can help save his family's estate. But when his very proper British manners lead Poppy's grandmother to request he teach etiquette to Poppy, he quickly finds himself in for much more than he bargained for.
And while they couldn't be more opposite, Reginald and Poppy just might find they have more to teach each other than they ever could have expected.
My Thoughts:
I couldn't wait long to see what happened next in the American Heiress series by Jen Turano....no will power I tell you. I have to say, I really, really, really enjoyed Diamond in the Rough. I liked it so much more then book 1 of the series. This had everything I was hoping for! Poppy was a fabulous character and this book was everything I would hope for in a Jen Turano book. The main thing I always hope for is a comradery of friends, and this had it and then some.
Poppy is basically black mailed by her grandmother to be apart of a season in New York. I wasn't sure how I was going to like the relationship between the two in the beginning, but I will say I was pleasantry surprised and enjoyed their interactions all the more as the story moved forward.
During this unique season that Poppy is working toward, she is literally thrown in the path of Reginald Blackburn, who gives a very nice impression of Mr. Darcy when first introduced to. He comes out of his shell much sooner however, and he is really enjoyable to read about and when he is with Poppy, you can't help but swoon a little bit as he lets his guard down for her a little more.
This was a fun story to read and listen too. I loved how Jen was able to tie not only book one into here, but also her previous series, Apart of the Crowd with a fun little Easter Egg thrown in. You'll have to read it to find it. :-)
The narration of this story was done so well. Andrea Emmes is fun to listen to. I can picture Poppy well with her voice carrying her though the story. I will admit, it took a little getting adjusted to her mail, British voice, but it didn't take long. She kept the character separate and carried the story well with their own unique voices.
The characters in this book all worked so well together. Murray had a lot of growing to do, but half way through, you couldn't help but route for him. George, Poppy's grandpa....all you would ever want in a grandpa. Beatrix...I honestly can't wait for her book to come out....I will however, since it is set to release May 5th of 2020 (keep an eye out!). Beatrix is a strong personality who blends with all of her friends.
Poppy was not raised among the New York 400, but because of that, her heart and mind are on other things and she becomes a light in the story. Her character and heart are ones that I know I would wish to have more of.
This story was a lot of fun and very sweet to read. I'm so happy this series in audiobook format, it helps me multitask and bring joy wherever I can go.
This one is a must!
5 out of 5
Review: Crack Yourself Up: Jokes for Kids by Sandy Silverthrorne
September 20, 2018
Author: Sandy Silverthorne
Publisher: Revell
Pages: 144
ISBN: 978-0-8007-2969-1
Publication Date: August 21st, 2018
About the Book:
Why are dogs such bad dancers? They have two left feet.My Thoughts:
Knock, knock. Who's there? Alex. Alex who? Alex the questions around here.
What's red and goes up and down? A tomato in an elevator.
Any kid can be a comedian with a little help from Crack Yourself Up Jokes for Kids. This zany collection of one-liners, knock-knock jokes, riddles, puns, funny lists, and hilarious illustrations promises hours of fun. Just be careful. These are the kinds of laughs that make milk come out your nose--so don't drink and read!
I love a good laugh, always have and always will! Crack Yourself Up Jokes for Kids is a fun easy read for kids and adults. This is one of those joke books that works whether you have memorized the jokes, or your reading them from the book itself.
Sandy Silverthrone has complied some really funny and witty jokes, riddles, and dad joke style puns that is appropriate for all ages. My kiddo thought this book was for her as soon as I opened the package. Safe to say, she has taken it over from me. She found the jokes easy to read and understand, which is a big plus!
If you're looking for a fun joke book for kids, or as a stocking stuffer (Christmas is coming up!) this book really is one that would be perfect.
4 out of 5
About the Author:
Thank you to the publisher, I received a copy of this book for free in exchange for an honest review.
DVD Review: Heaven Bound
April 2, 2017
Distributed by: Jax Studios
Release Date: March 28th, 2017
Run Time: Approx 88 Min
Synopsis:
A financially desperate couple and the wife's goofy brother rob a mansion, only to be trapped by the terminally-ill Christian homeowner. He won't let them go until they decide whether or not they'll follow Jesus. Wha–? Starring Torry Martin (My Name Is Paul), Nancy Stafford (Matlock), Danny Vinson (Talladega Nights), and Michael Joiner (The Grace Card), this good-natured comedy tilts heavily toward the mad-cap side of the street, but is definitely safe for the whole family.
Review:
In the last couple of years, I've been looking into very family friendly movies through certain stations in cable and have enjoyed the sweet, clean stories. So when the ability to review this movie came up, I was thrilled to do it. I was able to sit down and watch this movie with my kiddo, which is hard to do right off the bat. I was thankful with this movie I could with out worry.
This was a very well portrayed comedy. It was clean and cute. I was wondering how they would pull of the part with the elderly man holding the robbers hostage and sharing Jesus with them. It kind of played on the method that is joked about in church, about how not to share.
If you're looking for a fun, family friendly movie, I would say give this a try.
Too Watch
4 out of 5
Heaven Bound DVD:
https://www.fishflix.com/christian-movies-heaven-bound-dvd.html
Christian Movies
https://www.fishflix.com/
Thank you to FishFlix, I received a copy of this DVD for free in exchange for an honest review.
DVD Review: Buck Denver asks...What's in the Bible Vol. 10
December 3, 2014
Directed By: Phil Vischer
Format: DVD
Run Time: Approx. 66 Minutes
Synopsis:
Let VeggieTales creator Phil Vischer and a bunch of hilarious new friends explain the entire Bible to your kids in this groundbreaking fast-paced and fun-filled DVD series. Includes TWO 25 minute episodes: God’s Perfect Timing - Buck Denver and crew learn about the 400 years between the Old and New Testaments and how Jesus arrives at just the perfect time & The Messiah Has Come! - Learn about the life and ministry of Jesus-how He died for us and rose again to launch the kingdom of God in the world and in us!Review:
Ever since I watched and reviewed Buck Denver asks...Why do we call it Christmas, the family has become fans of this series. I didn't know what to expect going in, but now, I'm so glad I went after the opportunity to review these videos.
In Vol. 10, Jesus is the good news, it focuses on the books of the Bible, Matthew, Mark, Luke, & John. There is so much that happens in these books that is so important. I was interested to see how Jesus' life, death on the cross, and then him rising from the grave would be handed. It can be a tough topic for adults. I was very happy to see how they explained it and the demonstrations used for kids to understand. My littles seems to grasp the idea of what Jesus did better then she ever has since then. It has also led to more questions and discussions, which has been nice to have.
The stories presented were very educational and they touched on so many things, and the best part is, they didn't lose the importance behind them. Each segment is fun with the cartoons, puppets, and live action. They mesh well and work in telling these stories at a level that a kid can understand, without dumbing it down.
This is definitely a series I would recommended to anyone with kids.
5 out of 5
Thank you to FlyBy Promotions, I received a copy of this DVD for free in exchange for an honest review.
Review: Surviving Henry by Erin Taylor Young
August 1, 2014
Author: Erin Taylor Young
Publisher: Revell
Pages: 224
ISBN: 978-0-8007-2356-9
Publication Date: August 5th, 2014
Synopsis:
You don't always know what you're getting into when you bring home a puppy. Enter Henry, a boxer who suffers from Supreme Dictator of the Universe Syndrome. He vandalizes his obedience school, leaps through windows, cheats death at every turn, and generally causes his long-suffering owner Erin Taylor Young to wonder what on earth she did that God would send this dog to derail her life.Review:
Through his laugh-out-loud antics and escapades, Henry will steal readers' hearts. Anyone who has ever owned a dog, especially a canine catastrophe like Henry, will enjoy this lighthearted book about a dog who brings new meaning to the concept of unconditional love.
After reading this first chapter, I connected with Erin and her doggy Henry immediately! I have a neurotic part boxer and I could understand completely where she was coming from. I felt a kinship and as I read, I could laugh and sympathize with Erin as I turned each page. And oh, how I laughed while reading this book!
Erin Taylor Young has a wonderful ability to tell a humorous and very real story that allows you to come and experience what she has gone through with her crazy pup, who deals with Supreme Dictator of the World Syndrome. The training experience of Henry and his connection to the obedience school manager was fun to read, he is a loveable pup. With all of Henry's shenanigans, it is true with what Erin says, it's hard to be mad when he is so cute.
I loved how the family showed such care for Henry, even during his destructive phase, it's all part of owning a pet and they showed how to handle it with humor and grace. I have to say, I thought loosing long sleeve shirts was bad...I can't imagine loosing jeans to a puppies teeth. And the de-fluffying of toys, I just had to smile and say, "yep." I wish I had known all of these things before getting mine!
Surviving Henry is a fun book that is perfect for the animal lover, or if you are just contemplating getting a dog. It's a real account puppy hood. It's a fantastic light read that will leave you chuckling well after you are done reading it.
Too Read
4 out of 5
About the Author:
Thank you to the Revell Reads Blog Tour, I received a copy of this book for free in exchange for an honest review.
Love Finds You in North Pole, Alaska
December 11, 2013
Author: Loree Lough
Publisher: Summerside
Pages: 297
ISBN: 978-1-935416-19-7
Publication Date: October 1st, 2009
Synopsis:
A former Marine is no match for the spunky Sam Sinclair. Bryce Stone has returned to his hometown of North Pole, Alaska and he's not very happy about it. "The Town Where It's Christmas All Year Long" does not appeal to the self-admitted scrooge. What's worse, Bryce must postpone his dream of opening a furniture shop when his Aunt Olive retires and leaves him to manage the family's cluttered Christmas boutique. Bryce hires a petite and inexperienced young woman to run the store, figuring that if she fails, he can sell the place! But Bryce underestimates Sam, who grew up with seven rowdy brothers and is out to prove her mettle in the frozen north. It's a battle of wills and the two soon find that they're fighting for more than just the shop. After all, love takes as many forms as the snowflakes that blanket the streets of North Pole.Review:
I was drawn to this book by the title. I lived close to North Pole, AK and wanted to see how the story portrayed the town.
The story follows Samantha 'Sam' Sinclair, as she arrives to North Pole, Alaska having sold her town home and a lot of her possessions, to come be a chef at hotel restaurant in town. However, the day she arrived, she found out the owner gave the job to his nephew. Sam is now left with out a job and now home. She only has an RV. After having the proverbial rug out from under her feet, Sam is determined to find a job in this town. She loves that the Christmas spirit is everywhere.
Bryce Stone has only been back to North Pole for a few weeks. He's been discharged from the Marines and has moved back home after receiving an injury in combat that left him blind in one eye. After his parents died, Bryce was left his parent's Christmas shop in the small town. He is not one to sit behind a counter, so he leaves his Aunt Olive to find a manager for the store while he does his best to get a carpentry shop started.
Love Finds You in North Pole Alaska is a sweet story. It was a bit predictable, but it was a nice light read. My only issue with the story however was the way North Pole was portrayed. I will say, the people there are very nice! I use to visit the town a few times a year. They also have amazing food! Check out Diners, Drive-in, and Dives...they list their best restaurants. It is also a Christmas town through and through. Christmas lights are decked out as candy canes, all of the restaurants are decorated year round, and I will also say, they have a fantastic coffee shack! The book portrayed the town a little bigger then it really is and the drive to Fairbanks isn't that long. The book mentions that the men to women ratio is 3-1, but no explanation is given. The reason for such a high ratio is the fact that right past North Pole is an Air Force Base and in Fairbanks is an Army Post. Those were just a couple of things that stood out to me.
All in all, a cute story.
3 out of 5
A Change of Fortune
December 3, 2013
Author: Jen Turana
Publisher: Bethany House
Pages: 318
ISBN: 978-0-7642-1081-1
Publication Date: November 1st, 2012
Synopsis:
Lady Eliza Sumner is on a mission. Her fortune was the last thing she had left after losing her father, her fiancé, and her faith. Now, masquerading as Miss Eliza Sumner, governess-at-large, she's determined to find the man who ran off with her fortune, reclaim the money, and head straight back to London.Review:
Mr. Hamilton Beckett, much to his chagrin, is the catch of the season, and all the eyes of New York society—all the female ones, at least—are on him. He has no plans to marry again, especially since his hands are full keeping his business afloat while raising his two children alone.
Eliza's hapless attempts to regain her fortune unexpectedly put her right in Hamilton's path. The discovery of a common nemesis causes them to join forces and, before she knows it, Eliza has a whole retinue of people helping her. Eliza's determination not to trust anyone weakens when everyone's antics and bumbling efforts to assist her make her wonder if there might be more important things than her fortune and independence.
When all of Hamilton's and Eliza's best-laid plans fall by the wayside, it will take a riot of complications for them to realize that God just might have had a better plan in mind all along.
I have started this series out of order, I have read the third book, A Talent for Trouble, first. However, even though I've read out of order, they still work in reading them.
A Change of Fortune is similar to A Talent for Trouble with the fact that they are both fun to read! There is humor spread through out the story, even during the climax of the story, there is humor to carry it through. I sailed through this book so quickly. It was hard to put down. Lady Eliza Sumner was a fantastic lead. She has the right mix of ingenuity, pluck, and fortitude. The humor she brought to the story was subtle and done with out it being forced, while Hamilton Beckett brought the little more stern and serious side to the story. He was a great balance. Even though he was a serious character, he also knew when to laugh.
I enjoyed A Change of Fortune. If you need a laugh or a smile this story is for you! I can't wait to read the second story in the series.
Too Read
4 out of 5
The Duck Commander Family
January 4, 2013
I love the show Duck Dynasty on A&E. They are the best family on TV right now. They are respectful, loving, and uplifting. It's always a good night when we watch them. So, when I found out they had a book out, I had to read it.
I blew through this book in about a day. It was an enjoyable book, and like the show, uplifting. Every chapter started with a Bible verse, several of them are my favorite and ended with one of the Robertson's favorite recipes. Some of them look really good and the others, I will have to say, I will be thrown into the yuppie catagory for steering around. That isn't the best part of the book however, the best part of the book is the constant glorification of God and His hand in all of their lives.
I didn't know a whole lot about this family except for what I've seen on the show. Just from the show, I knew that they were family oriented and Christians. The book opened up their story further and spoke how the family was brought to Christ with a rough start with the family. God was with them and this book was such a wonderful testament to their walk with God with a lot of fun clean humor. This is a to read!
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