To Suit a Suitor by Paula Kremser Review

About the book:

Much to her mother’s annoyance, Julia North can’t catch a husband. Nearing the end of her third London season, Julia is jilted. Again! Constantly wondering what it is about her that drives the gentlemen away, Julia leaves London to visit a distant cousin for a couple of months. She is hoping to forget about husband hunting for a time, but she inadvertently finds herself in competition for Henry Chamberlain, the most desirable gentleman in Somersetshire. Marriage wouldn’t seem so detestable if she could marry him. But every young lady has the same dream of capturing his attention, so Julia knows she doesn’t have a chance. What she doesn’t know is that her desire to avoid Henry’s attention is the very thing that has caught it, but it’ll take some effort on Henry’s part to convince Julia of that.

About the author:

Paula Kremser focused on a career in science for a few years after graduating from Brigham Young University. Several years later when she moved with her young family to England, Paula seized the opportunity to focus on her love of the Regency Era. The enchantment of the aristocracy and the fascinating stories from every stately home she visits have been both research and inspiration for her first novel, “Sophia.”

My Review:

This is an interesting historical. It is not like others that I have read. I say that because the older woman, past her season, is trying to get married. To someone that ends up giving her an ultimatum. One that he sticks to, that made me dislike him throughout the book. I did like Julia and her beau, Henry. They were meant to be and reminded me of Pride and Prejudice, especially their stubbornness. Not to mention the airhead sibling that has no clue what man she wants. I also thought that Marianne, Julia's mom, really only cared about her own happiness. Her daughters were in her way, rather then her caring about them. All in all this is a very interesting and clean romance that leaves me wanting more from the author. I am giving this book a 5/5. I was given a copy, all opinions are my own.

Ella by Jessilyn Stewart Peaslee Review

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 graduated with a BA in English from Brigham Young University in 2004. She loved taking Creative Writing classes, and was particularly fond of the works of Shakespeare, Jane Austen, and the Bronte sisters. She also studied French and the Humanities. Jessilyn grew up in the beautiful deserts of Southern California and now resides in the shadow of the Rocky Mountains in Saratoga Springs, Utah, with her husband and five boys.

My Review:
I really liked this Cinderella retelling. I liked it because there were enough similarities to remind me of the original, and yet enough differences to makeit like a new story. The evil step family is there, along with the Prince and the glass slippers. However the edition of a human best friend and the way the author described p o berry brought new life into the old classic. I really liked the ending when Ella found her voice and her heart. Also the Prince does go looking for the girl that fits the glass slipper! I am giving this book a 5/5. I was given a copy to review, however all opinions are my own.

North for Christmas by Christina Dymock Review

Have you ever known exactly what you wanted for Christmas? As a child, you may have written a letter to Santa, made a wish upon a star, or locked your dream away in your heart afraid that it might not come true if you so much as whispered it out loud. Even as adults, Christmas wishes carry a magic that can't be explained.



















 In North for Christmas, Ruby Jeavon certainly has her heart set on an engagement. It's the first step in creating the family she's always wanted. But things go slightly off course and instead of flying to Italy with her boyfriend, Ruby heads out of town to work as an elf in Nashville. Even though she's far away from her dream, she's about to discover the magic of a Nashville Christmas through the eyes of North Foxwell, her fellow elf and a Christmas expert. Even though North struggles with his own Christmas ghosts, Ruby manages to bring new light to his life. Can Ruby let go of her dream to find what her heart truly desires? Only time--at the North Pole--will tell. You can pick up your copy of North for Christmas at your local book store, iTunes, Barns and Noble, or from Amazon.

My Review:
This is a great short read to reread every year December to get you in the holiday spirit. It is short and has everything that a great Christmas story should have. Two stubborn, yet "broken" characters, the reason of the season (giving of one's self), elves, and of course love. A lot of miracles happen around Christmas time, and sometimes people just need a little nudge to realize what they really need. I am giving this book a 5/5. I was given a copy to review, however all opinions are my own.

Casters of Doovik by McKenzie Wagner Review

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.

My Review:

This is a really great story for kids. It has a great world that kids can escape to. There are halflings and curses and myths. There is definitely no lack for imagination. The author is only 14! I think that this gives her insight to other kids that adults just don't get. There are also parts where the reader questions right from wrong, and I even thought about if stealing is ever right. I am giving this book a 4/5. I was given a copy to review, however all opinions are my own. 

An Uncommon Blue by R.C. Hancock Review

About the book:

In a society where the color of a person’s palm determines their social class, Bruno goes from favored to fugitive when he kills a Royal Guard to save a boy’s life. If he wants to survive, Bruno has to learn to accept the lower colors. A thrilling blend of fantasy and adventure perfect for readers everywhere.

About the author:

RC (Really Cool) Hancock began his writing career with a story about a dead cat which his second grade teacher thought was brilliant. Convincing others of his literary genius has taken longer than expected, but along the road he has acquired a lovely wife, four entertaining ankle-biters (who, thankfully, look more like their mother), and a degree from BYU in Recreational Management & Youth Leadership (which means he’s really good at having fun.) An Uncommon Blue is his first novel.

My Review:
From High School I remember the different groups and cliques. As an adult I know what impact your class has on your life. This book combined the two and made for a fast past thriller that had me reading late into the night. The chase to remain alive was important, but so was the underlying theme of class. It was interesting to read how the author used fire to separate classes. I also liked that something so simple as a handshake could have such an impact on Bruno's life. The ending was what I expected, and I can not wait to read more of this series. I am giving this book a 4/5. I was given a copy from Cedar Fort Publishing, however all opinions are my own.

I Know My Savior Lives by Kimiko Christensen Hammari Book Review

About the book:

Make Mondays the best night of the week! With a full year of easy family nights that correlate directly with the 2015 Primary theme, this book is the perfect solution for busy families everywhere. For each week you’ll find a complete lesson written for you, plus songs, scriptures, ideas for treats, and activity options for younger and older children.

My review;

This is a book that is separated into months and then into weeks and days. These lessons teach children about the scriptures with easy to follow directions for children of all ages. It even has child friendly recipes that children can make. A Cd is included so that you can make copies and not ruin your copy of the book. I give this book a 4/5. I was given this book for the purpose of a review from Cedar Fort and all opinions are my own.

Softly Falling by Carla Kelly Book Review

About the book:

Beautiful Lily Branson learns that her wayward father has lost his Wyoming cattle ranch in a card game to handsome cowboy Jack Sinclair, no less! When a series of deadly winter storms sets in, Lily and Jack must work together to save the cattle—as well as their hearts.

About the author:

Carla Kelly is a veteran of the New York and international publishing world. The author of more than thirty novels and novellas for Donald I. Fine Co., Signet, and Harlequin, Carla is the recipient of two Rita Awards (think Oscars for romance writing) from Romance Writers of America and two Spur Awards (think Oscars for western fiction) from Western Writers of America. She is also a recipient of a Whitney Award for Borrowed Light and My Loving Vigil Keeping.

My review;

I have read other books by author Carla Kelly and I have really enjoyed reading them. Lily Carteret finds when she gets to New York City that a cowboy has won her father's cattle ranch by playing cards. Lily decides that this will not stop her from what she wanted to do. The cowboy Jack Sinclair, is someone she will have to get along with or be left with nothing. Will they be able to keep the ranch going? What will happen to her father?  I liked the storyline and the 2 main characters are wonderful. I give this book a 4/5. I was given this book for the purpose of a  review and all opinions are my own.

Pierced by Love by Laura Walker Review

Laura L. Walker and Cedar Fort Publishing & Media are pleased to announce the “Pierced by Love” blog tour, which will run from December 13-27, 2014.

About the book:

Noelle Jensen doesn’t want to like Pierce Logan. After her boyfriend breaks up with her for her sister, Noelle is done with love. Plus Pierce Logan has commitment issues because of his parents’ divorce and a strained relationship with his dad. But as Pierce and Noelle inadvertently help each other to open up their hearts, they also rediscover the importance of family and love.

About the author:

Laura Walker grew up in southern Arizona. She met her husband, Rob, at Northern Arizona University where she earned her bachelor degree in Elementary Education. She and Rob are raising their six children. Her hobbies include water aerobics and sewing. At the end of the day, Laura loves to curl up with a good book or write one of her own. Pierced by Love is her first published novel.

My Review:

This is a really sweet love story. It reminded me that we each have a soul mate out there, and sometimes it might take awhile to get there. Noelle seemed to have the worst luck. Everything that could go wrong, has. She has decided to keep her heart closed to future romance. However Pierce might be the one. He was a good character for Noelle to end up with. They both had issues in their past and they both didn't trust their hearts. The ending was nice as was the plot. I am giving this book a 4/5. I was given a copy to review, however all opinions are my own.

How Much Do You Love Me by Paul Mark Tag Book Review

My review;

I just finished reading How Much Do You Love Me?  and I found myself going between feeling mad at how other people could turn on their friends and trying not to cry. The book was full of the horrors that the main characters had to face. Keiko has realized that even marrying an American soldier would save her and her family from the interment camps. This novel is full of sadness and joy at the little things that others took for granted. I will not write anymore because I do not want to tell any of the story. I give this book a 4/5. I was given this book for the purpose of a review and all opinions are my own.

Visions from Beyond the Veil by Lee Nelson Review

About the book:

For those who believe, it’s no secret that this life is not the end. Learn for yourself what awaits us all in these inspiring true accounts from Latter-day Saints who have been shown a glimpse through the thin veil between this life and death. Sure to uplift any reader, this beloved book, compiled from the previous Beyond the Veil series, is a must-read—a true testament to the eternal nature of God’s plan.

About the author: 

Lee Nelson was a public relations and advertising copywriter before his first book was published in 1979. Lee is best known for his Storm Testament series historical novels (nine volumes), and his Beyond the Veil series (four volumes). Lee is well known for his authentic research, which includes killing a buffalo from the back of a galloping horse with a bow and arrow, crossing the murky waters of the Green River many times on horseback, and riding with Mongolian nomads while gathering research for an upcoming book.

My Review:

I liked this book because it is a compilation of a series and it is faster and easier to read. It also gives the main ideas and there are so many different stories from different people that have lived through many amazing feats. Some of these stories made me cry, others made me think of my dad in Heaven and some gave me goose bumps. There is a story for everyone in this book. It has a beautiful message about living your life, even in your after life. I am giving this book a 5/5. I have been given a copy t review, however all opinions are my own.

Willow Springs by Carolyn Steele Review

About the book:

Discover true love on the Utah frontier! Crissa Engleson is searching for a new life in the town of Willow Springs when she attracts the unwanted attention of a miner—and falls in love with a handsome Express rider. Laugh and cry with Crissa as she escapes her past to find love and helps the townspeople along the way.

About the author: 

Born and raised in Utah, Carolyn Steele was introduced to western novels at a very young age by her grandfather, the son of a gold miner. She has been writing technical and marketing communications for most of her adult life. Her nonfiction articles have appeared in numerous national magazines. She earned her undergraduate degree in Communications from the University of Utah. Married and living in Salt Lake City, Utah, Carolyn loves researching obscure history then weaving it into stories. She also enjoys family dinners with her children and grandchildren, photography, travel, golf, reading, and all forms of needlework.  

My review:

This is a story that takes place in the historical west. This book is full of love, suspense and the story of people going there to start a new life. I really liked the story line and the characters. Crissa has left her home to begin again but, her past will not disappear. She has to be strong to overcome these obstacles. I give this book a 4/5. I was given a copy of this book for a review and all opinions are my own.

Make Every Day Meaningful by Randal A. Wright Review

About the book:

Sometimes day-to-day life feels monotonous and hardly journal-worthy. But Randal Wright demonstrates how you can use experiences from your life to make better decisions, feel increased gratitude, recognize your strengths and weaknesses, more easily prepare talks and lessons, create a personal history for your posterity, and find more joy in daily life. Make the world around you—every minute of every day—your classroom.

My Review:

What I liked most about this book was that the scriptures in this book were linked to common situations that happen in every day life. Every second I am alive is meaningful, weather or not I live that way. I also liked that this book discussed morals and I was reminded of some things that I have forgotten. I like that the author made this a fun read, and included fun ways to spread his message, like The Elimination Game on page 134. I enjoyed the challenges in the book, and I think that I should start a journal. This is a great book to share with your friends and to connect with the little things that God does for us daily. I am giving this book a 5/5. I was given a copy to review from Cedar Fort Publishing, however all opinions are my own.

One Dirty Bowl: Fast Desserts, Faster Cleanup by Christina Dymock Review

Baking doesn't have to take all day or make a mess in the kitchen. With One Dirty Bowl: Fast Desserts, Faster Cleanup, you'll have the recipes and easy-to-follow instructions to help you make show-stopping from-scratch desserts in no time. All you need is a little time and one bowl! And, since you'll only have one bowl to clean, you'll use these recipes over and over again.

Christina Dymock

Christina Dymock graduated from the University of Utah with a B.S. in Public Relations. She has been published in Woman’s World Magazine and several Chicken Soup for the Soul books, and she is the author of 101 Things to do With Popcorn. She resides in Central Utah with her husband and four children. You can follow their cooking adventures at teachingyoungchefs.blogspot.com.

My Blog:   http://christinadymock.wordpress.com/

Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/authorchristinadymock

Amazon:  http://www.amazon.com/One-Dirty-Bowl-Desserts-Cleanup/dp/1462114016/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1407005274&sr=8-1&keywords=one+dirty+bowl

Author of One Dirty Bowl: Fast Desserts, Faster Cleanup, The Hungry Family Slow Cooker Cook Book, Young Chefs, 101 Things to do With Popcorn, The Widow's Mite, and The Godmother Chronicles

My Review:

This was a fun book to bake from. I loved that it saved me time and I did not have to wash 10 different dishes. The best thing about this book is that the author knows her stuff. These recipes looked so yummy, that I never thought they could be duplicated. However her recipes are easy to follow, and have ingredients that are easy to find. My favorite recipe was Mint Valley Cupcakes! I am giving this book a 5/5. I was given a copy to review from Cedar Fort Publishing, however all opinions are my own.

Seeds of Faith by Dan Barker

About the book:

In Sunday School, we learn about the remarkable miracles of early converts. But what about their lives before they became spiritual giants? Dan Barker, author of “Little-Known Stories about the Doctrine and Covenants,” compiles conversion stories full of visions, persecutions, and miracles. Our ancestors’ paths to the gospel will strengthen your testimony as you live your own conversion story.

About the author:

Dan Barker was born in Montana, but raised in Calgary, Alberta, Canada. He’s a graduate of both Lethbridge Community College (Wildland Park Management) and Utah State University with a major in Forestry. He is also the author of “Unique Stories and Facts from LDS History” and “Mormon History 101.”

My Review:

This was a very easy way to learn about history. I loved all the information from the early church and how things were in the 1800's. I also liked that a lot of different people can relate to the different sections. My favorite parts were the journal entries that I got to read. I am giving this book a 4/5. I was given a copy to review, however all opinions are my own.

Memories of Me by LAURA HEDGECOCK Review

About Memories of Me: A Complete Guide to Telling and Sharing the Stories of Your Life

We all have stories to share with our children and grandchildren. Whether it’s a proud moment, memories of grandparents, or a lesson you’ve learned, Memories of Me: A Complete Guide to Telling and Sharing the Stories of Your Lifehelps you put the episodes of your past onto paper and share them with loved ones.

Inside you’ll find

• Simple, down-to-earth instructions to get you started

• Worksheets with in-depth brainstorming exercises to spark recall

• Plenty of examples to spark your creativity

• Writing advice to make your memories shine

Preserve your stories and share them with the important people in your life by using the tips and advice found in this comprehensive guide.

Praise for Memories of Me:

Telling our personal stories can literally change lives. We are all connected as the human family and we learn much from sharing with each other. “Memories of Me” is the perfect guide to assist you in getting your stories down for generations to enjoy and grow from.
- Jeffery C. Olsen, Bestselling Author “I Knew Their Hearts & Beyond Mile Marker 80.

Part how to, part idea generator, and part motivator, Memories of Me will inspire you to begin (or continue) your writing life. This Complete Guide to Telling and Sharing the Stories of Your Life is enriched with worksheets and personal stories that provide advice, tips, and ideas. A must have resource for writing your memoir.
  -Matilda Butler, award-winning co-author of Rosie’s Daughters: The “First Woman To” Generation Tells Its Story

If you dream of writing your story but don’t yet feel ready to tackle the memoir genre, Laura Hedgecock has a book full of creative ideas that will help you start small and easy.Memories of Me is your inspirational guide to memory writing (not to be confused with memoir writing)–an important distinction that helps to tame and scale the memoir into something quite approachable. Just as Laura delves into her grandmother’s treasure chest for story ideas, her book is a veritable goldmine of tips and exercises for finding your own stories.
– Kendra Bonnett, co-author of Writing Alchemy: How to Write Fast and Deep

Read More Reviews

Now Available  (See Buy Now link on left side bar)

• Paperback: ISBN 978-1-4621-1425-2
• E-book: E-ISBN  978-1-4621-0912-8.

Author Bio

LAURA HEDGECOCK is passionate about telling stories and connecting with others. She comes by that passion honestly; her grandmother, Hazel Crymes, wrote throughout her life. However, her grandmother wrote in secret; Laura believes in sharing.

When she’s not writing, Mrs. Hedgecock enjoys spending time with her husband and two teenage sons (and her Springer spaniel), playing soccer, nature photography, and finding her roots.

Read Laura’s full bio. 

My Review:

This is the perfect resource for people that like genealogy, scrapbooking, or that like to pass on family information to future generations. I lost my dad 5 years ago and I have to admit that during the family sections I remembered things about growing up and I did cry a few times. I also smiled and laughed as I thought about my siblings and I. The author has sections for brainstorming, exercises and reflection. There are even worksheets. I liked that there were stories thrown in throughout the book, and I really liked page 98 about when daddy was a girl. My dad used to tease us and play games with us all the time. I wish he was here to play with my nieces and nephew. I can use this book to write my memories, so they can read it when they get older. I am giving this book a 5/5. I was given a copy to review, however all opinions are my own. 

Guilt Free by Karen John Review

Men are that they might have joy—not guilt trips” (Elder Russell M. Nelson). Guilt is a debilitating, forceful emotion with power to slow or stop our progression. We all feel guilt at some level, but Karen John, LCSW, explains how you can use remorse to access the Atonement and heal from unresolved guilt and pain.

My Review:
I never thought as guilt and remorse coming from Satan. I can definitely understand that argument though. This book was very interesting. I liked that the author talked about guilt coming into play when we are children. I also liked the section in the back for notes. This was great for when I talked about my book with my sister! The Endnotes are perfect for further reading. The was the book was separated into three parts made the book easier to read and to find certain things I was looking for. Quotes from the Bible are also used throughout the book. I am giving this book a 4/5. I was given a copy to review, however all opinions are my own.
Find out more about the book here: http://cedarfort.com/guilt-free-using-remorse-to-escape-the-adversary-s-tool-45-paperback.html#.U8cuyvldWUI