Wishing on Baby Dust by Lydia Winters

Wishing Baby Dust

Author: Lydia Winters (Lindzee Armstrong)

Publisher: Snowflake Press

Published: January 2015

ASIN: B00R2BJ9K2

ebook: 322 pages

FTC FYI: Received a PDF copy in exchange for an honest 

review.

Goodreads Summary

Infertility stinks. No one knows that better than Megan. After six years of insanity-inducing hormone drugs and desperate prayers, all she has to show for her efforts are enough negative pregnancy tests to fill a bassinet. All around her women are accidentally getting pregnant—like her star piano student—while Megan remains hopelessly barren.

Megan’s never felt so alone. But she’s not the only one struggling.

Christina has just entered the world of infertility, made worse by the fact her husband isn’t ready to be a father. Their marriage, already hanging in the balance, is being torn apart.

Then there’s Kyra, the mother of a precocious three-year-old. She’s shocked to be struggling with secondary infertility. A baby is priceless, but sometimes Kyra feels like she’s being forced to choose which commandment to keep: stay out of debt, or multiply and replenish the earth.

When Megan and Christina are assigned as Kyra’s visiting teachers, they all realize that what you see isn’t necessarily what’s beneath the surface. Some secrets aren’t worth the cost of keeping them.

My Review

I absolutely loved this book.  Although I never struggled with infertility, my heart broke for these women and what they endured.  Having pregnancies of my own, I related to their feelings of wanting a baby.  The author did a fantastic job of capturing each woman's individual character, personality, and unique situation.  I cheered for them, laughed with them, and cried with them.  This book reads really fast, and I instantly was taken into the story.  I could tell the author did her homework when it came to the knowledge of procedures of infertility, having gone through it herself.  This book is perfect reminder for us all to kind and loving to each other, not truly knowing what the other may be going through.

5 out of 5 stars.  This is Lydia's debut novel.  Find out more about her with the links below.  I can't wait to read more from her.

Author Links

Goodreads / Website / Twitter / Facebook

Purchase Links

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Letters to My Future Husband by Lisa McKendrick -- Blog Tour

Letters to My Future Husband

Author: Lisa McKendrick

Publisher: Cedar Fort

Published: February 10th, 2015

Paperback: 240 pages

ISBN13: 9781462115539

FTC FYI: Received a PDF copy from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.

Goodreads Summary

Sophie doesn’t know what kind of man she’s looking for, so her father suggests she write letters to her future husband—and come to know him in the process. But Sophie soon learns her letters aren’t the most reliable key to her heart. This hilarious coming-of-age novel is a guaranteed laugh-out-loud read you’ll want to share with all your friends.

My Review

When Sophie is little, her father breaks the news to her that she can't marry him.  She is heartbroken.  Dad encourages her to write letters to her future husband in order to get to know the type of man she would want to marry.  Sophie writes mostly about the crush she has on brother's friend, Hanno.  Forward 10 years, Sophie is in Italy and runs into Hanno.  They spend the day together and she is instantly smitten again.  Until, he takes her to his place.  She leaves in a rush when Hanno passes out, and his roommate Peter helps her back to where she is staying.  After a series of events (all are hilarious), they end up kissing in the rain, and she runs away from him.  Jump another 10 years, Sophie is back home for Christmas, and is surprised that Hanno is getting married.  Peter is there and it starts a chain of events that don't stop until the last until the last page.

This book is very funny.  Oh, the things that Sophie thinks.  Peter is wonderful.  Sophie's boyfriend Griffin, not so much.  I really enjoyed where this story goes.  Even though I was very happy with the ending, I thought a couple things weren't resolved, and I wanted more letters, but all in all, Letters to My Future Husband is full of laughs, humor, and fun.  Sophie is a great character, but Peter stole the show for me.  Loved him!

4 out of 5 stars.

Author Links

Goodreads

Purchase Links

Amazon / Barnes and Noble / Deseret Book 

Deceived by Kathi Oram Peterson -- Blog Tour/Giveaway

Deceived

Author: Kathi Oram Peterson

Publisher: Covenant Communication

Published: November 2014

ISBN13: 9781621088530

Paperback: 245 pages

FTC FYI: Received a paperback copy from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.

Goodreads Summary

A storm rages outside the unassuming Los Angeles house, while within, something sinister lurks. A murderer stalks his victim, unaware of a witness to the horrific crime: awakened from a deep, drug-induced slumber, Tara Kelly hears voices in the next room. Struggling to focus through her sleep medication, the young woman helplessly observes her aunt's murder. Now she's a loose end the killer cannot ignore . . .

A family friend helps Tara as she does the only thing she can: disappear. Fleeing to the security of a remote Idaho ranch, Tara finds herself under the guard of handsome rancher Joseph White Eagle. Her unwitting protector takes his role seriously, going as far as claiming that Tara is his fiancée. But even as their relationship deepens, Joseph struggles to see past Tara's similarities to his late wife. When a series of accidents threatens Tara's life, it becomes clear that her attempt to out run danger has been in vain. The killer will stop at nothing to find her, and Joseph will do anything to protect her even if it means unraveling secrets that will have devastating consequences for them both.

My Review

Once I was able to really sit down and take the time to delve into this book, I really enjoyed it.  I did think the romance between Tara and Joseph was a bit rushed, they did have to play the part of an engaged couple, and I only worried about that since Tara was in such a fragile state.  That being said, the characters were made for each other, and perfect for each other in many ways.  Tara and Joseph both had tragic events happen in their lives, until they find themselves together to protect Tara.  Joseph makes up an engagement to get those on the ranch to not ask too many questions about Tara.  Some do not take this engagement well, including Joseph's daughter.  Besides the struggles that Tara is having trying to remember what happened on the night of her aunt's murder, someone is making Joseph's life on the ranch difficult.  Between shot animals, getting shot at themselves, and putting the lives of everyone at the ranch in danger, are the two situations connected?  The author does a great job of building the suspense and planting seeds throughout the book.  The other characters in this book are written well and through all the suspense, there is a heart-felt love and the feeling of family, and a great example of love and guidance from Heavenly Father through prayer.  I also want to add, the ending was shocking and so page-turning, it was well past my bed time when I finished reading.

4 out of 5 stars.  Kathi is the author of many great books.  Check out the links below to find out more about her.

Author Links

Goodreads / Website / Facebook / Twitter

Purchase Links

Amazon / Barnes and Noble / Deseret Book / Seagull Book

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The Dreamosphere by Laura Stoddard -- Blog Tour

The Dreamosphere

Author: Laura Stoddard

Publisher: Cedar Fort

Published: July 8th, 2014

ISBN13: 9781462114443

Paperback: 208 pages

Goodreads Summary

What if dreams don’t disappear when we wake up? Haunted by her sister’s death, Gwen Stoker takes solace in her web of dreams—the Dreamosphere. But when someone begins destroying it, Gwen must find the culprit—or risk losing all her happy thoughts and feelings forever! Dreams come to life in this fantastical children’s tale!

My Review

I enjoyed the idea behind this book, someone has been breaking in to her dreams and changing her personality.  I felt bad for Gwen and all that she has gone through, you can tell right away that something is off with her.  I was glad that the author eased the reader into her life.  I liked the mystery behind her "secret" and what happened to her to make her the way she is.  She is having a hard time in school and when an old friend starts to visit her in her dreams to help her, it seemed to me she wanted to be in the dream world instead of the real world.  I did enjoy the events that take place in the story.  I was happy when she started figuring things out, but thought it was wrapped up too quickly, but was glad when this unhappy girl with no friends, starting getting some answers and was able to make friends and be happy. 

EXCERPT

"What do you think happens to your dreams after you wake up?"

Gwen shrugged distractedly, too disoriented by her sudden arrival in the remarkable setting to focus. "I dunno. They disappear?"

The unblinking gray eyes of her young companion flashed as she leaned forward. "Incorrect. Every dream you've ever had still exists. All of them. They reside in a dimension called the Dreamosphere. It's where we are right now, as a matter of fact. Each dream basically exists as its own world, or dream-orb. There are thousands and thousands of them, connected like drops of dew on a gigantic spider web. Every dream you've ever had, Gwen. They're all up here. And you can visit them any time you want."

Author Bio: Laura Stoddard was born in Idaho and spent her formative years running amok in the great outdoors. She received her bachelors degree in English Literature from Arizona State University. After being rejected from the masters program for creative writing she decided that she didn't need a masters degree to tell her she could write, so she started really dedicating her time to finishing the story she'd started months earlier, with the goal of writing a complete novel, and getting it published. The result is her debut novel, The Dreamosphere, for which her own vivid, bizarre, and incomprehensible dreams provided the inspiration. Laura is an adrenaline junkie and will try anything once--or twice--or maybe three times. She can already check whitewater rafting, going down in a shark cage, and skydiving (three times) off of her list. Oh, and getting Lasik. It was five minutes of terror. She enjoys hiking, rowing, reading classic literature, embarking on new adventures and hobbies, volunteering regularly, and spending time with family. She currently resides in Phoenix, Ariz.


Purchase Links

Amazon / Barnes and Noble 

Porcelain Keys by Sarah Beard -- Blog Tour

Porcelain Keys

Author: Sarah Beard

Publisher: Cedar Fort

Published: Expected February 11th, 2014

Genre: YA

Paperback: 352 pages

ISBN13: 9781462113965

FTC FYI: Received a PDF from the author in exchange for an honest review.

Goodreads Summary

Aria's life is full of secrets--secrets about her mother's death, her father's cruelty, and her dream to go to Juilliard. When Aria meets Thomas, he draws out her secrets, captures her heart, and gives her the courage to defy her father. But when tragedy strikes and Thomas disappears, Aria is left alone to transform her broken heart's melody into something beautiful. Porcelain Keys is a captivating love story that will resonate long after the last page is turned.

My Review

Wow, this was a good book.  I could not put it down.  I almost finished it in one sitting.  I loved the story.  I was immediately taken by Aria and her life.  Thomas was fantastic too.  I loved how the author pulled me into the story with subtle hints of what was to come and didn't let go until the end.  So many things happen to her and those around her, you can't help but read all night.  I know I have read a good book when I read it quickly, have tears in my eyes at some point and have a smile on my face at the end.    

5 out of 5 stars.  Perfect debut for Sarah.  I will eagerly be awaiting more from her.  

About the Author

Sarah Beard is the author of Porcelain Keys, a YA contemporary romance.  She has a degree in communications from the University of Utah and splits her time between writing and raising three energetic boys.  She is a cancer survivor and a hopeless romantic.  She enjoys reading and composing music, and lives with her husband and children in Salt Lake City, Utah.  You can follow Sarah on Twitter @authorsarahB or Facebook.  Her website is www.sarahbeard.com.


Reviews

"Emotionally rich, elegant description, beloved characters--Sarah Beard delivers a fresh, new novel that will go on my list of classics." --Stephanie Fowers, author of With a Kiss.

"Aria is a heroine worth rooting for, and the plot is an emotional melody that weaves a spell so potent, it can only be broken by reaching the end. And even then, I couldn’t stop thinking about Aria and her story." --Heather Frost, author of The Seers Trilogy

"Emotionally gripping, this beautifully crafted young adult romance will pull at readers’ heartstrings from tragic beginning to happy ending. A must-read for fans of contemporary romance, both young and seasoned. " --Julie Ford, author of Replacing Gentry

"Porcelain Keys is a fresh, heart-wrenching take on boy-meets-girl. Using fantastic and musical imagery to tell the poignant love story of Aria and Thomas, the author leads thereader to a swelling crescendo as if we're part of the song—and what a beautiful song it is." --Cindy C. Bennett, author or Geek Girl and Rapunzel Untangled

"A lyrical love story that will leave your heart singing. Porcelain Keys is a masterpiece with emotional depth, young love, and family angst. Beard takes us on a journey of self- discovery, second chances, and ultimately, sweet resolution." --Heather Ostler, author or The Siren's Secret

Purchase Links

Amazon / Barnes and Noble

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Blood Moon by Teri Harman -- Blog Tour

Blood Moon

Author: Teri Harman

Publisher: Jolly Fish Press

Published: June 22, 2013

ISBN13: 9781939967008

Hardcover: 354 pages

FTC FYI: Received an ARC from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.

Goodreads Summary

Willa dreams of true events and her best friend is a ghost. Simon can heal any wound with a touch and senses others’ emotions, intentions. All their lives they’ve felt alone in their bizarre abilities, hiding behind a facade of normalcy, wondering why and how. The night Simon walks into the Twelve Acres Diner and meets Willa face to face, in a swirl of electric heat, they are bound to one another and glimpse the magic of who they are.

Across town a witch is held prisoner in the derelict basement of an old Victorian house. One night as it rains, she dares to reach her filthy, scarred hand out the window. Willa, walking home from work, recognizes the pathetic hand from a recent, terrible dream.

After a daring rescue of the witch, Willa and Simon are catapulted into the alluring but dangerous world of witchcraft and the magic of The Six Gifts. Answers to all their questions are within reach, but they’ve stepped into the middle of a deadly fight for the Powers of the Earth. Do they stay, risk their lives on the promise of power, or walk away?

Teri Harman's groundbreaking debut novel, the first installment in The Moonlight Trilogy, completely reinvents the modern concept of witches and magic. With its authentic translation of the history of witches into a fresh and entertaining package with unprecedented characterization, Blood Moon is sure to capture readers from the first page.

My Review

Right away I was taken into Willa and Simon's story.  I was intrigued by their instant connection and what will become of their relationship.  I really enjoyed how the author told the story from different points of view.  We got to see the story through many different character's view points, even ghosts and bad guys.  I also really liked how the story went from present to past, telling us of important events that were vital to the story, and how the past and present connected.  I also appreciated how Willa and Simon, when faced with certain situations, really look their time to know what was right for them.  I loved reading about the different types of magic, or gifts, that the witches had.  There were also some surprising twists and turns that kept me eagerly reading this book until way past my bedtime.

Content

Violent scenes.  

4 out of 5 stars.  This is the first book of The Moonlight Trilogy.  I am really looking forward to the next book.

As part of the Blog Tour for Blood Moon, there is a Rafflecopter giveaway.  There is also a giveaway on Goodreads. 



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Author Links

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Purchase Links

Amazon / Barnes and Noble 

A Blind Eye by Julie Daines

A Blind Eye

Author: Julie Daines

Publisher: Convenant Communications

Published: February 2013

ISBN: 9781621082521

Paperback: 163 pages

FTC FYI: I received a paperback copy in exchange for an honest review.

Goodreads Summary

Seventeen-year-old Christian Morris decides the only way to save himself from his father's neglect is to run away from home. On his way out of town, he finds a stowaway hiding in his car—Scarlett, who has been kidnapped from London. Blind since birth, Scarlett has developed a sixth sense: she dreams about someone’s death before it happens. And now, she has dreamed about her own. 

Christian’s attempt to leave home turns into a race to save Scarlett from death by scientific experimentation. His growing relationship with the girl helps him to look past his own blindness and confront the truth about his father. But first, he must find the kidnappers before they can get to Scarlett.

My Review

4 out of 5 stars.  Right away I was caught up the story and the characters in this great debut from author Julie Daines.  First of all, I think the cover is awesome.  Very striking and "eye" grabbing.  Christian is an immensely likeable character, I loved his inner voice.  Scarlett was a scene stealer too.  She is a very quirky, sweet girl.  

When we first meet Christian, he is running away from home.  Ever since his mom died years earlier, his father has ignored him and made him feel like nothing.  Christian has a best friend, Jay, who looks out for him.  Christian heads to the cemetery where his mom is buried to give her grave a final farewell.  Afterwards, on the road, he finds he is not alone.  A blind hitchhiker, Scarlett, joined him while he was at the cemetery.  He immediately drops her off, but feels guilty about it and goes right back to get her.  They stop for dinner at a diner and the action doesn't stop after that.  If you like a clean, suspenseful, fact-paced book with a touch of smooching, this book is for you.  

Here is a book trailer! 


Author Links

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Purchase Links

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