This story is about flying, Alaska, live and hurt.
Dani and Etsell were high school sweethearts in their little Iowa town of Blackhawk.
Etsell loves flying planes and teaches people to fly, but his dream is to be a bush pilot. Dani is terrified to fly and wants to stay in their hometown. The day after he turns 27 Etsell leaves to fly to Alaska to help out a friend, he is only to be gone three weeks. They had been married for seven years and together for ten at this point. Just before he is to leave to come home, his plane goes missing. Dani and Ells surrogate mother fly to Alaska to aid in the search. Nothing is found of the plane or Ell, but they did find out he was with a woman Samantha. And, she knows nothing abut Ells whereabouts. Dani and Hazel head home to try to put their lives back together. A few months later Sam visits Dani with surprising news.
I couldn't stay focused on the story, but did finish the book
AMAZON - Far from Here
SANDY SAYS 2/3 STARS
Tuesday, December 31, 2013
Wednesday, December 25, 2013
COTTAGE BY THE SEA by Robin Jones Gunn
A quick an easy read. With Irish sayings at the beginning of each chapter.
Erin and her friend Sharlene have just opened their business, The Happiest Day; a wedding planning company. Erin gets word that her dad has had a stroke. Her dad and his second wife have left California and moved to the Oregon coast. Erin has never gotten on well with her step mother. She decides to fly to Oregon to check on her dad. Her has some issues from the stroke, but overall seems to be on the road to recovery. So, after staying a while and with a promise to return; she heads home.
She quickly gets back not work. She doesn't make it back to visit her dad in the fall. Her son, the oldest of three sons; comes home for Thanksgiving with his girlfriend. Even though she thought of inviting her dad and stepmom, decides not to. She intends on having them for Christmas, but doesn't. Then her son becomes engaged and with her business and the wedding time gets away from her. She becomes angry when her dad and stepmom do not show up for the wedding. Only to find out the following day he has had another stroke. She and her husband Mike leave to check on him. Erin ends up staying and begins the long journey of saying goodby and righting wrongs.
AMAZON - Cottage by the Sea
SANDY SAYS 3/3 STARS
Erin and her friend Sharlene have just opened their business, The Happiest Day; a wedding planning company. Erin gets word that her dad has had a stroke. Her dad and his second wife have left California and moved to the Oregon coast. Erin has never gotten on well with her step mother. She decides to fly to Oregon to check on her dad. Her has some issues from the stroke, but overall seems to be on the road to recovery. So, after staying a while and with a promise to return; she heads home.
She quickly gets back not work. She doesn't make it back to visit her dad in the fall. Her son, the oldest of three sons; comes home for Thanksgiving with his girlfriend. Even though she thought of inviting her dad and stepmom, decides not to. She intends on having them for Christmas, but doesn't. Then her son becomes engaged and with her business and the wedding time gets away from her. She becomes angry when her dad and stepmom do not show up for the wedding. Only to find out the following day he has had another stroke. She and her husband Mike leave to check on him. Erin ends up staying and begins the long journey of saying goodby and righting wrongs.
AMAZON - Cottage by the Sea
SANDY SAYS 3/3 STARS
Saturday, December 14, 2013
A BEND IN THE ROAD by Nicholas Sparks
Another great story by Sparks.
Miles Ryan is a deputy sheriff. He is a widower with a small son, Jonah. Missy Ryan his wife was hit and killed while out for a jog and the driver was never found.
Sarah Andrews is Jonah's teacher. She soon discovers that Jonah is behind in everything. She has heard some of the story about his mother and it appears that the other teachers gave him a pass because of it. Sarah wants to help, she and Miles have a meeting where they make the decision that Jonah will stay after school for extra help three days a week. Miles will handle the other two days at home.
Miles thinks a resident that he does not get along with killed Missy. One day he learns of a conversation that seems to agree with that. So, he heads right out and arrests Otis. Things get out of hand and Miles is suspended.
But, did Otis really kill Missy?
AMAZON - A Bend in the Road
SANDY SAYS 3/3 STARS
Miles Ryan is a deputy sheriff. He is a widower with a small son, Jonah. Missy Ryan his wife was hit and killed while out for a jog and the driver was never found.
Sarah Andrews is Jonah's teacher. She soon discovers that Jonah is behind in everything. She has heard some of the story about his mother and it appears that the other teachers gave him a pass because of it. Sarah wants to help, she and Miles have a meeting where they make the decision that Jonah will stay after school for extra help three days a week. Miles will handle the other two days at home.
Miles thinks a resident that he does not get along with killed Missy. One day he learns of a conversation that seems to agree with that. So, he heads right out and arrests Otis. Things get out of hand and Miles is suspended.
But, did Otis really kill Missy?
AMAZON - A Bend in the Road
SANDY SAYS 3/3 STARS
Friday, December 6, 2013
AT FIRST SIGHT by Nicholas Sparks
This is the sequel to True Believer.
Jeremy and Lexie decide to get married after Lexie becomes pregnant. Jeremy had been told it was almost impossible for him to father a child and that is the reason his first marriage fell apart. He also decides to move from New York City to Boone Creek, NC. This is a very small town and he has some adjustments to overcome. He doesn't have access to the theatre, movies and even restaurant choices he had in New York. Add to that he has writers block and only has so many columns already done to use. They have a wedding to plan, a house to buy and renovate. Then devastating news, Lexie has Amniotic band syndrome; which could attach to the baby causes birth defects.
AMAZON - At First Sight
SANSY SAYS 3/3 STARS
Jeremy and Lexie decide to get married after Lexie becomes pregnant. Jeremy had been told it was almost impossible for him to father a child and that is the reason his first marriage fell apart. He also decides to move from New York City to Boone Creek, NC. This is a very small town and he has some adjustments to overcome. He doesn't have access to the theatre, movies and even restaurant choices he had in New York. Add to that he has writers block and only has so many columns already done to use. They have a wedding to plan, a house to buy and renovate. Then devastating news, Lexie has Amniotic band syndrome; which could attach to the baby causes birth defects.
AMAZON - At First Sight
SANSY SAYS 3/3 STARS
Monday, November 25, 2013
TRUE BELIEVER by Nicholas Sparks
Another hit by Nicholas.
Jeremy Marsh is a reporter for a science magazine. He goes to Boone Creek, NC a small town to check into the reports of ghosts at a local cemetery. He grew up and lives in New York City. Lexie lives in Boone Creek and is the local librarian. Her grandmother owns a local restaurant and is the one that contacted Jeremy about the ghost.
Doris, Lexie's grandmother has "powers," she can accurately predict the sex of an unborn child and she is a diviner.
Now, Jeremy is there to figure out the truth about the appearances. Lexie was orphaned and raised by her grandparents. She has been burned a couple of times by men and is reluctant to get involved again. Jeremy was married and divorced for a reason he has shared with no one, until Lexie.
Can they make a go of a long distance relationship? Will he figure out what is causing the lights/the ghosts?
AMAZON - True Believer
SANDY SAYS 3/3 STARS
Sunday, November 17, 2013
BIKINI SEASON by Shelia Roberts
This is a story of four friends and their families. Erin is about to be married. Angela is married with two small daughters, Megan is a lawyer and single and Kizzy is married. They are in a monthly cooking club that Kizzy started. One problem is that Kizzy's Dr has told her she has to lose weight. So, she sets out to disband the club. She finds out that the others want to lose weight as well. Erin no longer fits not her wedding dress, Angela thinks her husband is having an affair with a skinny girl at work and Megan is dealing with the skinny lawyers at the group she works for. The story takes you along on their dieting ups and downs.
This story was hard to stay with for me.
AMAZON - Bikini Season
SANDY SAYS 2/3 STARS
This story was hard to stay with for me.
AMAZON - Bikini Season
SANDY SAYS 2/3 STARS
Thursday, November 14, 2013
CHRISTMAS AT BARNCASTLE INN-a Romancing America Story by Susan Page Davis, Darlene Franklin, Janelle Mowery and Lynette Sowell
Another set of four stories that are linked, this time by different families spending Christmas at Barncastle Inn and taking part in Christmas Any Time.
The stories all are religious stories.
Jayne Barncastle's parents own an inn in a small Vermont town. It looks like a castle and is on a lake. Jaynes parents decide they want to retire and hope that Jayne will take over the inn. In trying to help her parents bring in more business and make the decision to stay on, she comes up with a marketing plan. You can rent the Inn over Christmas and the Inn will make it a theme holiday. The first group are the Dillard's, they want to have a medieval theme. However, their grandson is still shy and anxious since his mother passed away. The Dillard's send their son in law and grandson to the Inn for a weekend to check it out.
The second story has a couple of sisters wanting to reenact White Christmas and post World War II, in the one of getting their grandparents back together. Their grandfather had moved out and was staying with one of the physician assistants from the VA. He brings him along on the holiday without telling anyone.
The third story brings a family wanting a pirate theme. It turns out their nanny used to be engaged to Jaynes cousin. What Stephanie does not know is he is back in town, now working for Jayne and her husband as their carpenter for the themed events. And, the brother of her employer shows up. He has been trying to when her love.
Then, we have Waverly; she is back in town and working at her fathers veterinarian office. Her father sold the business to his assistant and he offers her a job. Which is good as she is a single mother if a two month old daughter and needs the job. The babies father took off when he heard the news. Together she and the vet are in charge of the animals for the First Christmas theme.
AMAZON - Christmas At Barncastle Inn
SANDY SAYS 3/3 STARS
The stories all are religious stories.
Jayne Barncastle's parents own an inn in a small Vermont town. It looks like a castle and is on a lake. Jaynes parents decide they want to retire and hope that Jayne will take over the inn. In trying to help her parents bring in more business and make the decision to stay on, she comes up with a marketing plan. You can rent the Inn over Christmas and the Inn will make it a theme holiday. The first group are the Dillard's, they want to have a medieval theme. However, their grandson is still shy and anxious since his mother passed away. The Dillard's send their son in law and grandson to the Inn for a weekend to check it out.
The second story has a couple of sisters wanting to reenact White Christmas and post World War II, in the one of getting their grandparents back together. Their grandfather had moved out and was staying with one of the physician assistants from the VA. He brings him along on the holiday without telling anyone.
The third story brings a family wanting a pirate theme. It turns out their nanny used to be engaged to Jaynes cousin. What Stephanie does not know is he is back in town, now working for Jayne and her husband as their carpenter for the themed events. And, the brother of her employer shows up. He has been trying to when her love.
Then, we have Waverly; she is back in town and working at her fathers veterinarian office. Her father sold the business to his assistant and he offers her a job. Which is good as she is a single mother if a two month old daughter and needs the job. The babies father took off when he heard the news. Together she and the vet are in charge of the animals for the First Christmas theme.
AMAZON - Christmas At Barncastle Inn
SANDY SAYS 3/3 STARS
Tuesday, November 12, 2013
CHRISTMAS BELLES OF GEORGIA - a Romancing America story by Jeanie Smith Cash, Rose Allen McCauley, Jeri Odell and Debra Ullrick
This a book of four stories set at the holidays. Four stories of four sisters who happened to be identical quadruplets who were adopted out as babies. These all are religious stories.
The first story is of Holly. She grew up in Missouri and is an author and has a brother. She was never told she was adopted and only finds out when she receives a letter from an attorney in Georgia with that information and that they have inherited a mansion and peanut farm. The stipulation is that they have to send their birthday December 25 day and night of their 25th birthday at the mansion and the following day meet wi the attorney. All the girls get the same letter. Holly confronts her parents and flys out the next day. She is not feeling well and collapses while at the attorneys office. She has an appendicitis and has surgery. While recovering she falls in love with the attorneys brother.
Then comes Carol she grew up the only child of rich parents. She is neglected in that her parents are usually off on a trip without her. When she goes to the attorneys office to check out the story, she runs into the teenage pool boy from her parents home. He now lives in Monticello the small Georgia town where her inheritance is. Carol and Nick start seeing each other and fall in love.
Now for Starr she grew up in California the only child of a pastor and his wife. They never told her she was adopted. They are killed by a drunk driver in the year before getting her letter. She also has broken up with her boyfriend and been laid off from her job. However she thinks the letter is a scam. After several attempts to get a hold of her the attorney, Camden flys to California to convince her it is not a scam and they fall in love.
Noel grew up on a ranching Colorado, with five brothers. Her parents had told her she was adopted. She is in love with their ranch foreman, Stetson. She gets her letter and fells like she was abandoned by her father. She didn't realize Stets had a secret that he was carrying. Once she hears his secret will they be able to move forward?
AMAZON - Christmas Belles of Georgia - a Romancing America Story
SANDY SAYS 3/3 STARS
The first story is of Holly. She grew up in Missouri and is an author and has a brother. She was never told she was adopted and only finds out when she receives a letter from an attorney in Georgia with that information and that they have inherited a mansion and peanut farm. The stipulation is that they have to send their birthday December 25 day and night of their 25th birthday at the mansion and the following day meet wi the attorney. All the girls get the same letter. Holly confronts her parents and flys out the next day. She is not feeling well and collapses while at the attorneys office. She has an appendicitis and has surgery. While recovering she falls in love with the attorneys brother.
Then comes Carol she grew up the only child of rich parents. She is neglected in that her parents are usually off on a trip without her. When she goes to the attorneys office to check out the story, she runs into the teenage pool boy from her parents home. He now lives in Monticello the small Georgia town where her inheritance is. Carol and Nick start seeing each other and fall in love.
Now for Starr she grew up in California the only child of a pastor and his wife. They never told her she was adopted. They are killed by a drunk driver in the year before getting her letter. She also has broken up with her boyfriend and been laid off from her job. However she thinks the letter is a scam. After several attempts to get a hold of her the attorney, Camden flys to California to convince her it is not a scam and they fall in love.
Noel grew up on a ranching Colorado, with five brothers. Her parents had told her she was adopted. She is in love with their ranch foreman, Stetson. She gets her letter and fells like she was abandoned by her father. She didn't realize Stets had a secret that he was carrying. Once she hears his secret will they be able to move forward?
AMAZON - Christmas Belles of Georgia - a Romancing America Story
SANDY SAYS 3/3 STARS
Saturday, November 9, 2013
HOME FOR CHRISTMAS by Andrew M Greeley
This story follows a group of second graders in their first communion class. They stay in touch with the Father that teaches them. The story skips ahead to adulthood. Petey Pat had left and entered the military. He deploys three times and on the last one is killed. He is flatlined 9 1/2 minutes and goes to Heaven where he speaks to God. God sends him back with a purpose to write a book about his experience. There are chapters that are written as if they are interviews. I did not like this. And, other than Petey will be home for Christmas, this is not a Christmas story.
AMAZON - Home For Christmas
SANDY SAYS 2/3 STARS
AMAZON - Home For Christmas
SANDY SAYS 2/3 STARS
Thursday, November 7, 2013
ALLEGIANT by Veronica Roth
The sequel to Insurgent. This picks up at the end of Insurgent.
Tris is at Erudite headquarters following the attack. She and others are being held as traitors. Tobias is part of his mother Evelyn's group controlling the faction less. Tris, Tobias and some of their group decide to leave the city and travel beyond the fence to see what's out there. Caleb is brought along even though he betrayed Tris and helped the people trying to kill her. They end up in a compound which is the old airport. There the Bureau or government have control. It turns out they believe there are two types of people the GP or genetically pure and the GD or genetically damaged. The GP are people who after generations after the botched genetics tests show signs that their genetics are repaired. The GD still have damaged genetics. It turns out that Tris is GP and Tobias is GD.
Tris finds out that her mother once was part of the Bureau and she is allowed to read her diary. Which after a while she allows Caleb to read it, although she still has not forgiven him. Tris discovers that the Bureau helped or didn't help the people in the city, to their advantage. She is asked to start training for the council and agrees so she can keep the enemy close. There is an attack on the compound and Uriah is seriously injured. And, as with the other books you have the developing love of Tris and Tobias.
AMAZON - Allegiant
SANDY SAYS 3/3 STARS
Tris is at Erudite headquarters following the attack. She and others are being held as traitors. Tobias is part of his mother Evelyn's group controlling the faction less. Tris, Tobias and some of their group decide to leave the city and travel beyond the fence to see what's out there. Caleb is brought along even though he betrayed Tris and helped the people trying to kill her. They end up in a compound which is the old airport. There the Bureau or government have control. It turns out they believe there are two types of people the GP or genetically pure and the GD or genetically damaged. The GP are people who after generations after the botched genetics tests show signs that their genetics are repaired. The GD still have damaged genetics. It turns out that Tris is GP and Tobias is GD.
Tris finds out that her mother once was part of the Bureau and she is allowed to read her diary. Which after a while she allows Caleb to read it, although she still has not forgiven him. Tris discovers that the Bureau helped or didn't help the people in the city, to their advantage. She is asked to start training for the council and agrees so she can keep the enemy close. There is an attack on the compound and Uriah is seriously injured. And, as with the other books you have the developing love of Tris and Tobias.
AMAZON - Allegiant
SANDY SAYS 3/3 STARS
Monday, October 28, 2013
INSURGENT by Veronica Roth
This is the sequel to Divergent. It is a long book, 525 pages. I read it in 2 days.
The story picks up at the end of Divergent. Tobias, Tris, Peter, Marcus and Caleb make their way outside the city to the Amity faction. They offer them a chance to stay and live among them provided they abide by some rules, one is no weapons. Needless to say, they leave. Tris is shaken by having to shoot Will during the simulation and has problems using a gun. They and their group of people make their way into the city and into the factionless area. Only to find out that Tobias's mother, who was supposed to be dead; is the leader. They are planning an attack on the Erudite. The Erudite have been shooting the other factions with chemicals and devices to allow them to control those that have been hit. They are seeking out all the divergent, or those that are able to resist some of the simulations and during their test at age 16, show them more than one faction choice. Marcus, who is Tobias's father has a different agenda, retrieving valuable information from the Erudite. After learning of the beatings Tobias got at his fathers hand, Tris is not sure whether she should believe him. She finally has to find out the truth and goes with Marcus as they plan an attack of their own on Erudite in order to save the information. They all end up at Erudite headquarters and the attack is very costly.
AMAZON - Insurgent
SANDY SAYS 3/3 STARS
The story picks up at the end of Divergent. Tobias, Tris, Peter, Marcus and Caleb make their way outside the city to the Amity faction. They offer them a chance to stay and live among them provided they abide by some rules, one is no weapons. Needless to say, they leave. Tris is shaken by having to shoot Will during the simulation and has problems using a gun. They and their group of people make their way into the city and into the factionless area. Only to find out that Tobias's mother, who was supposed to be dead; is the leader. They are planning an attack on the Erudite. The Erudite have been shooting the other factions with chemicals and devices to allow them to control those that have been hit. They are seeking out all the divergent, or those that are able to resist some of the simulations and during their test at age 16, show them more than one faction choice. Marcus, who is Tobias's father has a different agenda, retrieving valuable information from the Erudite. After learning of the beatings Tobias got at his fathers hand, Tris is not sure whether she should believe him. She finally has to find out the truth and goes with Marcus as they plan an attack of their own on Erudite in order to save the information. They all end up at Erudite headquarters and the attack is very costly.
AMAZON - Insurgent
SANDY SAYS 3/3 STARS
Wednesday, October 23, 2013
ENDER'S GAME by Orson Scott Card
Another book, that to me is similar to Hunger Games and Divergent in writing and grabbing ahold of you.
Ender Wiggin is Andrew Wiggin, he is the third child in the family and therefore referred to as third.
This is a time where people have to have permission to have more than two children. His parents were allowed three because of his brother Peter and sister Valentine. They are all very smart. The world has seen two invasions of the buggars in the solar system. And, they are looking for a commander to lead the fleet against the third invasion. Children are injected with a monitor that allows them to watch and choose who is sent to battle school. Enter is six when his monitor is finally removed, his sister Valentine is two years older than he and Peter four years older. Ender is finally chosen to go to battle school where at least he can get away from Peters constant torture. The one person he misses is Valentine.
At battle school they isolate and keep Ender from forming many close friends all in an attempt to make him a great commander.
What will happen? Will there be another invasion? Will Ender break?
AMAZON - Ender's Game
SANDY SAYS 3/3 STARS
Ender Wiggin is Andrew Wiggin, he is the third child in the family and therefore referred to as third.
This is a time where people have to have permission to have more than two children. His parents were allowed three because of his brother Peter and sister Valentine. They are all very smart. The world has seen two invasions of the buggars in the solar system. And, they are looking for a commander to lead the fleet against the third invasion. Children are injected with a monitor that allows them to watch and choose who is sent to battle school. Enter is six when his monitor is finally removed, his sister Valentine is two years older than he and Peter four years older. Ender is finally chosen to go to battle school where at least he can get away from Peters constant torture. The one person he misses is Valentine.
At battle school they isolate and keep Ender from forming many close friends all in an attempt to make him a great commander.
What will happen? Will there be another invasion? Will Ender break?
AMAZON - Ender's Game
SANDY SAYS 3/3 STARS
Thursday, October 10, 2013
COME HOME by Lisa Scottoline
This is the first book by Lisa I have read. I enjoyed it. The story has lots of twists and turns.
Jill Farrow is a single mother and Dr. Her daughter Megan is 13, who's father died before she was born. Jill had been married to William Skyler, the father of 2 girls, and becomes a father to Megan. Three years after their divorce, Jill is engaged to a terrific guy who loves her and Megan. One of Jills ex step daughters Abby shows up unexpected, drunk saying that her father had been murdered. The police do not believe that William was murdered, but Abby begs Jill to help her figure it all out. Against Sam's wishes Jill starts to look into William's murder. Little does she know how much danger this will put her and her family in. Or, the trouble it will cause in her relationship with Sam.
AMAZON - Come Home
SANDY SAYS 3/3 STARS
Jill Farrow is a single mother and Dr. Her daughter Megan is 13, who's father died before she was born. Jill had been married to William Skyler, the father of 2 girls, and becomes a father to Megan. Three years after their divorce, Jill is engaged to a terrific guy who loves her and Megan. One of Jills ex step daughters Abby shows up unexpected, drunk saying that her father had been murdered. The police do not believe that William was murdered, but Abby begs Jill to help her figure it all out. Against Sam's wishes Jill starts to look into William's murder. Little does she know how much danger this will put her and her family in. Or, the trouble it will cause in her relationship with Sam.
AMAZON - Come Home
SANDY SAYS 3/3 STARS
Sunday, October 6, 2013
WINTER GARDEN by Kristin Hannah
This is a quick read, however it took some adjusting to with part of the story told as a fairy tale. It does take you into Russia during the war and really expose you to what they went through.
Meredith and Nina Whitson grow up surrounded by their fathers apple orchids. Their mother is very cold and aloof from them and very loving toward their father. Nothing the girls do pleases her. They finally quit trying. They grow up and Nina becomes a world traveling photographer while Meredith marries her childhood sweetheart and they have 2 daughters. And, her marriage is falling apart. Meredith takes over the running of her fathers orchid. Their father suffers a heart attack and Nina comes home. He makes the girls promise him to have their mother tell them the whole fairy tale and to get to know her. This is not easy. Nina goes back to work and Meredith is swamped with taking care of the business, her home and her mother. Their mother is Russian but they know little else about her. They finally convince her to tell the fairy tale, never dreaming that it would take them on a journey or what those memories will tell.
AMAZON - Winter Garden
SANDY SAYS 2/3 STARS
Meredith and Nina Whitson grow up surrounded by their fathers apple orchids. Their mother is very cold and aloof from them and very loving toward their father. Nothing the girls do pleases her. They finally quit trying. They grow up and Nina becomes a world traveling photographer while Meredith marries her childhood sweetheart and they have 2 daughters. And, her marriage is falling apart. Meredith takes over the running of her fathers orchid. Their father suffers a heart attack and Nina comes home. He makes the girls promise him to have their mother tell them the whole fairy tale and to get to know her. This is not easy. Nina goes back to work and Meredith is swamped with taking care of the business, her home and her mother. Their mother is Russian but they know little else about her. They finally convince her to tell the fairy tale, never dreaming that it would take them on a journey or what those memories will tell.
AMAZON - Winter Garden
SANDY SAYS 2/3 STARS
Friday, October 4, 2013
HARRY POTTER and the PRISONER OF AZKABAN by J K Rowling
This is the third book of the Harry Potter series.
Arkansan is the wizards prison and before school starts Sirius Black escapes. The prison is guarded by dementors, they are dark creatures that suck the good thoughts right out of you. Sirius is convicted of killing 13 people and believed to be a followers of Voldemort, the Dark Lord. Due to this, Harry is brought in to stay at a hotel near Diagon Alley. He is allowed to do whatever he wants, as long as he does not go into the Muggle World. He enjoys being able to sleep in and wander around Diagonal Alley, the street filled with shops with everything for witches and wizards. His friends Ron and Hermione also show up shortly before they are to leave for their third year at Hogwarts school of wizards. Harry overhears Ron's parents discussing him and the escaped convict Sirius Black. It seems everyone thinks he has escaped to kill Harry.
While on the train a dementor comes aboard and when it comes near Harry, he passes out.
The dementors are now going to guard the school, and the students have strong rules to follow; including not being able to wander the grounds or castle without chaperones. Add this to another hectic year at school and playing on the Quidditch team. It makes for a long year for Harry but with some unexpected surprises.
AMAZON - Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban
SANDY SAYS 3/3 STARS
Arkansan is the wizards prison and before school starts Sirius Black escapes. The prison is guarded by dementors, they are dark creatures that suck the good thoughts right out of you. Sirius is convicted of killing 13 people and believed to be a followers of Voldemort, the Dark Lord. Due to this, Harry is brought in to stay at a hotel near Diagon Alley. He is allowed to do whatever he wants, as long as he does not go into the Muggle World. He enjoys being able to sleep in and wander around Diagonal Alley, the street filled with shops with everything for witches and wizards. His friends Ron and Hermione also show up shortly before they are to leave for their third year at Hogwarts school of wizards. Harry overhears Ron's parents discussing him and the escaped convict Sirius Black. It seems everyone thinks he has escaped to kill Harry.
While on the train a dementor comes aboard and when it comes near Harry, he passes out.
The dementors are now going to guard the school, and the students have strong rules to follow; including not being able to wander the grounds or castle without chaperones. Add this to another hectic year at school and playing on the Quidditch team. It makes for a long year for Harry but with some unexpected surprises.
AMAZON - Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban
SANDY SAYS 3/3 STARS
Saturday, September 28, 2013
HOME FRONT by Kristin Hannah
This is the first book I have read of Kristin's, it will not be the last.
Jolene Zarkades did not have a good childhood, growing up in an abusive and alcoholic home. Her parents were killed just before she finishes high school. Alone she goes to get legal aid about staying alone. After school, alone and broke she joins the military and becomes a pilot.
Fast forward, and she is married to the young man that helped her at legal aid and mother of two girls. She is still flying helicopters and in the Guard. Her best friend, whom she met in the mi,Italy lives next door and is also a pilot and in the Guard. They get the call that they are being called up and sent to Iraq. Jolene and her husband Michael have hit a rough spot in their marriage and the deployment does not help.
What will happen? Will they come back safe and sound?
The book will go from home to the front line. Giving insight into military lives and their families that are left behind.
AMAZON - Home Front
SANDY SAYS 3/3 STARS
Jolene Zarkades did not have a good childhood, growing up in an abusive and alcoholic home. Her parents were killed just before she finishes high school. Alone she goes to get legal aid about staying alone. After school, alone and broke she joins the military and becomes a pilot.
Fast forward, and she is married to the young man that helped her at legal aid and mother of two girls. She is still flying helicopters and in the Guard. Her best friend, whom she met in the mi,Italy lives next door and is also a pilot and in the Guard. They get the call that they are being called up and sent to Iraq. Jolene and her husband Michael have hit a rough spot in their marriage and the deployment does not help.
What will happen? Will they come back safe and sound?
The book will go from home to the front line. Giving insight into military lives and their families that are left behind.
AMAZON - Home Front
SANDY SAYS 3/3 STARS
Tuesday, September 24, 2013
FALLING HOME by Karen White
A quick and easy read. This is the second book I have read from Karen. I look forward to reading more stories from her.
Cassie and Harriet grew up in a little town Walton, Georgia. Their mother died when they were young. They were raised by their father and his sister. Cassie liked Joe, only to find out that Harriet and Joe ran away to get married. So, what does she do? She leaves and goes to New York. She gets an MBA, works at an advertising firm and is engaged to the owner. She reinvents herself, losing all her Southern charms. It has been 15 years and she has not been home since. She is still in contact with her dad.
She gets a call from Harriet that their dad is dying. She leaves and goes home. She runs into Sam another childhood friend and the friend who let her know about Harriet and Joe.
After the death of their father, the girls go about sorting through his things. They come upon love letters to him that indicate he fathered another child. Then just as they are finding their way, Harriet receives bad news.
Can they work through their issues? Will Harriet go back to New York?
AMAZON - Falling Home
SANDY SAYS 3/3 STARS
Saturday, September 21, 2013
WE'LL ALWAYS HAVE SUMMER by Jenny Han
A very fast read about first love and loving two different people.
Isabel -Belly- Conklin grew up with Conrad and Jeremiah-Jere-Fisher. There families, including Belly's brother Steven were very close. Conrad was Belly's first love. Even though he let her down. After his mothers death he transferred to a college in California to continue his pre med. After he let Belly down, she and Jere hooked up and stayed together even through her fist and his second year of college. They attended the same college. Jere and his frat brothers decide to go to Cabo for spring break. Belly goes home, as she is wanting to go home and see her family. Later at the end of the year, she finds out Jere cheated on her while he was in Cabo. They break up only to become engaged to marry. But, can she give her heart completely to Jere? Or, does a part still belong to Conrad? Who will she choose?
AMAZON - We'll always have summer
SANDY SAYS 3/3 STARS
Isabel -Belly- Conklin grew up with Conrad and Jeremiah-Jere-Fisher. There families, including Belly's brother Steven were very close. Conrad was Belly's first love. Even though he let her down. After his mothers death he transferred to a college in California to continue his pre med. After he let Belly down, she and Jere hooked up and stayed together even through her fist and his second year of college. They attended the same college. Jere and his frat brothers decide to go to Cabo for spring break. Belly goes home, as she is wanting to go home and see her family. Later at the end of the year, she finds out Jere cheated on her while he was in Cabo. They break up only to become engaged to marry. But, can she give her heart completely to Jere? Or, does a part still belong to Conrad? Who will she choose?
AMAZON - We'll always have summer
SANDY SAYS 3/3 STARS
Thursday, September 19, 2013
HARRY POTTER and the CHAMBER of SECRETS by J. K. Rowling
Book two of the Harry Potter series.
After a horrible summer with his aunt, uncle and cousin; Harry is rescued. Ron Weasley and his twin brothers come to get Harry in their fathers magic flying car.
They are about to start the second year at Hogwarts. This year Ron's younger sister Ginny will be starting there. The wall opening for the train to school won't open and Ron and Harry miss the train. They fly Mr. Weasley's car to school.
The chamber of secrets is a myth among the students, or is it. 50 years ago the chamber was opened, a girl died and Hagrid was accused and expelled from the school.
Strange things are going on spiders all walking in lines and leaving the school. A flood, people becoming petrified.
One of those being Hermione. Harry and Ron try to solve the puzzle alone, as Hagrid has been sent to jail and Professor Dumbledore has been forced to leave. It is said only a dark wizard can open the chamber. Is is also said that it is guarded by a monster. However, many have look for it and failed to find it.
Harry turns out to be a Parseltongue or someone who can speak to and understand snakes.
This is news to Harry. Draco Malfoy, is also still tormenting Harry.
AMAZON - Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets
SANDY SAYS 3/3 STARS
After a horrible summer with his aunt, uncle and cousin; Harry is rescued. Ron Weasley and his twin brothers come to get Harry in their fathers magic flying car.
They are about to start the second year at Hogwarts. This year Ron's younger sister Ginny will be starting there. The wall opening for the train to school won't open and Ron and Harry miss the train. They fly Mr. Weasley's car to school.
The chamber of secrets is a myth among the students, or is it. 50 years ago the chamber was opened, a girl died and Hagrid was accused and expelled from the school.
Strange things are going on spiders all walking in lines and leaving the school. A flood, people becoming petrified.
One of those being Hermione. Harry and Ron try to solve the puzzle alone, as Hagrid has been sent to jail and Professor Dumbledore has been forced to leave. It is said only a dark wizard can open the chamber. Is is also said that it is guarded by a monster. However, many have look for it and failed to find it.
Harry turns out to be a Parseltongue or someone who can speak to and understand snakes.
This is news to Harry. Draco Malfoy, is also still tormenting Harry.
AMAZON - Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets
SANDY SAYS 3/3 STARS
Saturday, September 14, 2013
CHRISTMAS, PRESENT by Jacquelyn Mitchard
A quick and sad holiday read.
Elliott and his wife Laura were married on 12/23. They have 3 daughters. He can't remember if this is their 14 or 15th wedding anniversary. It is their 14th. They go out to eat and to Cirque Du Soleil show. After the show Laura has a very bad headache, which turns out to be a hemorrhage. She is going to die and soon. They gather the family around. Then afterward it goes on a little bit with a trip to Paris for Elliott and the girls. Something he promised Laura.
AMAZON - Christmas, Present
SANDY SAYS 2/3 STARS
Friday, September 13, 2013
HARRY POTTER AND THE SORCERER'S STONE by J.K. Rowling
I never read these stories or watched any of the movies, until now. I am enjoying this book and look forward to reading the rest of the series.
Harry's parents are killed and he is placed with his mothers sister and her family. They are "muggles" or someone that is nonmagic. It turns out they do not tell Harry anything about his past-he came to live with them as a baby. They and their son are cruel to Harry. Harry is a famous wizard, having survived being killed by wizard that no one mentions his name out of fear.
Hagrid arrives to bring Harry to Hogwarts school, for wizards and witches. This story takes you through his first year and his troubles and triumphs.
Harry becomes friends with Ron, who's older brothers have graduated from or are still in Hogwarts. A pesky girl Hermione makes them miserable until they become friends. The trio are always up to something. The students are split into 4 houses. The sorting hat, tells them which house they will be in; after the first year student puts the hat on, before the banquet given on the first day. The trio are all assigned to Gryffindor house.
Draco Malfoy's father is rich and powerful and Draco is a bully and a coward. He is always picking on the group. Draco is in the Slytherin house.
Harry is about to learn lots of interesting things. He also spends Christmas at the school and has the best Christmas of his life, complete with presents and a big feast.
I have seen the first 5 movies and am enjoying them. By watching the movies it has made reading the book easier with the names, etc
AMAZON - Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone
SANDY SAYS 3/3 STARS
Harry's parents are killed and he is placed with his mothers sister and her family. They are "muggles" or someone that is nonmagic. It turns out they do not tell Harry anything about his past-he came to live with them as a baby. They and their son are cruel to Harry. Harry is a famous wizard, having survived being killed by wizard that no one mentions his name out of fear.
Hagrid arrives to bring Harry to Hogwarts school, for wizards and witches. This story takes you through his first year and his troubles and triumphs.
Harry becomes friends with Ron, who's older brothers have graduated from or are still in Hogwarts. A pesky girl Hermione makes them miserable until they become friends. The trio are always up to something. The students are split into 4 houses. The sorting hat, tells them which house they will be in; after the first year student puts the hat on, before the banquet given on the first day. The trio are all assigned to Gryffindor house.
Draco Malfoy's father is rich and powerful and Draco is a bully and a coward. He is always picking on the group. Draco is in the Slytherin house.
Harry is about to learn lots of interesting things. He also spends Christmas at the school and has the best Christmas of his life, complete with presents and a big feast.
I have seen the first 5 movies and am enjoying them. By watching the movies it has made reading the book easier with the names, etc
AMAZON - Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone
SANDY SAYS 3/3 STARS
Tuesday, September 10, 2013
DIVERGENT by Veronica Roth
This is a fast, action packed read. I throughly enjoyed it. Am definitely looking forward to the movie that is due out in March 2014.
The country is divided into 6 factions.
Abnegation- the political leaders, a group that believes in helping others and selfishness. They also don't call attention to themselves, by wearing gray.
Amity-a group that is at peace with everything, making music and making people laugh. They dress in red and or yellow.
Candor-this group is honest, they usually wear black and white-like they see everything.
Dauntless-they dress in black and defend the areas. They are loud and have fun and do crazy things; like jumping off a moving train.
Erudite-a well educated group. They tend to be the scientists.
Factionless-the people that do not fit into any of the other factions, they have failed the initiations into the other factions.
All children at the age of 16 go through a simulation that will determine which faction they will belong to. They then go to the choosing ceremony and pick the faction they choose or are assigned to. They have to go through initiations with their new faction and have to pass to become a member. The story follows Beatrice a member of Abnegation.
A wrench in the process is some members are divergent.
AMAZON - Divergent
SANDY SAYS 3/3 STARS
The country is divided into 6 factions.
Abnegation- the political leaders, a group that believes in helping others and selfishness. They also don't call attention to themselves, by wearing gray.
Amity-a group that is at peace with everything, making music and making people laugh. They dress in red and or yellow.
Candor-this group is honest, they usually wear black and white-like they see everything.
Dauntless-they dress in black and defend the areas. They are loud and have fun and do crazy things; like jumping off a moving train.
Erudite-a well educated group. They tend to be the scientists.
Factionless-the people that do not fit into any of the other factions, they have failed the initiations into the other factions.
All children at the age of 16 go through a simulation that will determine which faction they will belong to. They then go to the choosing ceremony and pick the faction they choose or are assigned to. They have to go through initiations with their new faction and have to pass to become a member. The story follows Beatrice a member of Abnegation.
A wrench in the process is some members are divergent.
AMAZON - Divergent
SANDY SAYS 3/3 STARS
Thursday, September 5, 2013
THE HERO-A Thunder Point Novel by Robyn Carr
This is the third in the Thunder Point series. Another very quick and fun story.
Devon is a single mother to her three year old daughter Mercy. They live in a commune and the leader is Mercy's dad. Devon was at a low point in her life when she met Jacob and went to live at the commune. Things start to become different and when offered a chance to take Mercy-against Jacobs orders-and leave, she runs.
She if offered a ride by Rawley, who works at the bar in Thunder Point but lives a little ways out.
He recognizes Devon's look as being one of the women from the commune. He sets out to win her trust and to help her. As she is welcomed by the town of Thunder Point, she starts to trust and settle in. But, always on the lookout for Jacobs men. She finds a job and even meets Spencer and they start to date.
Will the other women and children escape? Will Devon finally have what she thinks of as a normal life?
AMAZON - The Hero
SANDY SAYS 3/3 STARS
Devon is a single mother to her three year old daughter Mercy. They live in a commune and the leader is Mercy's dad. Devon was at a low point in her life when she met Jacob and went to live at the commune. Things start to become different and when offered a chance to take Mercy-against Jacobs orders-and leave, she runs.
She if offered a ride by Rawley, who works at the bar in Thunder Point but lives a little ways out.
He recognizes Devon's look as being one of the women from the commune. He sets out to win her trust and to help her. As she is welcomed by the town of Thunder Point, she starts to trust and settle in. But, always on the lookout for Jacobs men. She finds a job and even meets Spencer and they start to date.
Will the other women and children escape? Will Devon finally have what she thinks of as a normal life?
AMAZON - The Hero
SANDY SAYS 3/3 STARS
Saturday, August 31, 2013
JUST ONE KISS a Fool's Gold Romance by Susan Mallery
This is the first of Susan's books that I have read. I enjoyed this book and have another favorite author.
Fool's Gold is a typical small town. Everyone knows everyone and their business.
Patience is 14 and has a crush on the new kid Justice. Only 1 morning Justice was gone, as if he had never lived there. It turns out that Justice was in witness protection because of his dad. Years later Justice returns to town. Patience is now a single mother of a 10 year daughter. Justice has been in the military and now is a body guard/special forces, who is planning on opening a business in town.
Can they work through everything?
AMAZON - Just One Kiss a Fool's Gold Romance
SANDY SAYS 3/3 STARS
Fool's Gold is a typical small town. Everyone knows everyone and their business.
Patience is 14 and has a crush on the new kid Justice. Only 1 morning Justice was gone, as if he had never lived there. It turns out that Justice was in witness protection because of his dad. Years later Justice returns to town. Patience is now a single mother of a 10 year daughter. Justice has been in the military and now is a body guard/special forces, who is planning on opening a business in town.
Can they work through everything?
AMAZON - Just One Kiss a Fool's Gold Romance
SANDY SAYS 3/3 STARS
Sunday, August 25, 2013
THE WATER LILY CROSS-An English Garden Mystery by Anthony Eglin
I had a hard time finishing this book. It was tedious with an abundance of extra details.
Lawrence is friends with Stewart and Becky. Stewart and Lawrence were professors and both enjoy gardening. Stewart disappears and Lawrence starts searching for him. This leads him into dangerous situations. He starts working with the police on trying to find Stewart and to link the "evidence" he is finding.
AMAZON - The Water Lily Cross - An English Garden Mystery
SANDY SAYS 1/3 STARS
Lawrence is friends with Stewart and Becky. Stewart and Lawrence were professors and both enjoy gardening. Stewart disappears and Lawrence starts searching for him. This leads him into dangerous situations. He starts working with the police on trying to find Stewart and to link the "evidence" he is finding.
AMAZON - The Water Lily Cross - An English Garden Mystery
SANDY SAYS 1/3 STARS
Friday, August 23, 2013
THE GUARDIAN by Nicolas Sparks
I had read this book before, and bought it again thinking I had not read it. It is such a good story, I read it again.
Julie's husband Jim has passed away. Christmas brings an unexpected delivery and a letter from her deceased husband. The delivery is a Great Dane puppy. Julie's best friend is Jim's best friend, Mike.
Julie is a hairdresser, working for Jim's aunt Mabel. When Julie came to town, at Jim's invitation-her mother had kicked her out of the house-Mabel gave Julie a job and a place to live.
Julie dates Richard, who ends up being bad news. Once they break up she and Mike start dating. That's when Richard started showing his bad side. He ends up stalking Julie.
AMAZON - The Guardian
SANDY SAYS 3/3 STARS
Julie's husband Jim has passed away. Christmas brings an unexpected delivery and a letter from her deceased husband. The delivery is a Great Dane puppy. Julie's best friend is Jim's best friend, Mike.
Julie is a hairdresser, working for Jim's aunt Mabel. When Julie came to town, at Jim's invitation-her mother had kicked her out of the house-Mabel gave Julie a job and a place to live.
Julie dates Richard, who ends up being bad news. Once they break up she and Mike start dating. That's when Richard started showing his bad side. He ends up stalking Julie.
AMAZON - The Guardian
SANDY SAYS 3/3 STARS
Sunday, August 18, 2013
THE APPEAL by John Grisham
This was not a bad story, but I found it long. It took me more than 1 try to complete it.
Krane Chemical had a chemical plant in Bowmore, Mississippi; a rural area.
Bowmore has the largest cancer rate in the country, due to the illegal dumping from the Krane plant.
Wes and Mary Grace Payton successfully sued Krane for their client, Jeannette Baker whose son and husband have died from cancer. In the process, they lost almost everything and the care may bankrupt them. But, Krane Chemical will not take this sitting down and proceeds to find a candidate to run against a Mississippi Supreme Court Judge. With above board and not above board money they make sure their person wins. With the understanding that he is against liability cases.
The story starts with everyone waiting in the verdict all the way to the Supreme Court ruling.
AMAZON - The Appeal
SANDY SAYS 2/3 STARS
Krane Chemical had a chemical plant in Bowmore, Mississippi; a rural area.
Bowmore has the largest cancer rate in the country, due to the illegal dumping from the Krane plant.
Wes and Mary Grace Payton successfully sued Krane for their client, Jeannette Baker whose son and husband have died from cancer. In the process, they lost almost everything and the care may bankrupt them. But, Krane Chemical will not take this sitting down and proceeds to find a candidate to run against a Mississippi Supreme Court Judge. With above board and not above board money they make sure their person wins. With the understanding that he is against liability cases.
The story starts with everyone waiting in the verdict all the way to the Supreme Court ruling.
AMAZON - The Appeal
SANDY SAYS 2/3 STARS
Sunday, August 11, 2013
SOMEBODY TO LOVE by Kristan Higgins
A very quick and enjoyable read. This is not a series, however you will find characters from her stories Catch of the Day and The Next Best Thing.
Parker Welles is the author of a series of children's books about angels. She is also a single mother and daughter to Harry Welles a successful Wall Street person and ran the family business. As his daughter Parker was quite wealthy and had the best of everything. Then her father runs into trouble with the SEC and loses everything. Parker's trust fund, her son Nicky's trust fund, all the homes; including the mansion that Parker and Nicky live in.
Good news is that Parker still owns the home she inherited from her great aunt, which shed forgotten about. So, once Nicky and his father and stepmom ( who is Parker's best friend ) leave on vacation; Parker leaves Rhode Island and heads to Maine.
When she gets to the "house" which is more of a shack and badly in need of repairs, she finds her aunt was a hoarder.
She has three weeks until Nicky is back, to clean up the place.
Her fathers personal attorney-Thing 1- shows up to help.
What will happen? Can she repair the house and sell it so she can find a place back where she was living? Can she get over her feelings about James aka Thing 1 to allow him to help?
AMAZON - Somebody to Love
SANDY SAYS 3/3 STARS
Parker Welles is the author of a series of children's books about angels. She is also a single mother and daughter to Harry Welles a successful Wall Street person and ran the family business. As his daughter Parker was quite wealthy and had the best of everything. Then her father runs into trouble with the SEC and loses everything. Parker's trust fund, her son Nicky's trust fund, all the homes; including the mansion that Parker and Nicky live in.
Good news is that Parker still owns the home she inherited from her great aunt, which shed forgotten about. So, once Nicky and his father and stepmom ( who is Parker's best friend ) leave on vacation; Parker leaves Rhode Island and heads to Maine.
When she gets to the "house" which is more of a shack and badly in need of repairs, she finds her aunt was a hoarder.
She has three weeks until Nicky is back, to clean up the place.
Her fathers personal attorney-Thing 1- shows up to help.
What will happen? Can she repair the house and sell it so she can find a place back where she was living? Can she get over her feelings about James aka Thing 1 to allow him to help?
AMAZON - Somebody to Love
SANDY SAYS 3/3 STARS
Sunday, July 28, 2013
PIRATES by Linda Lael MILLER
Linda writes historical novels, which I am starting to enjoy. This story has a twist.
Phoebe divorced and now out of a job is at a loss as to what to do. She gets someone else's mail, an advertisement for a free trip to the Caribbean; all she has to do is look at the condos for sale. She decides to do it, if only to get away.
Get away she does, all the way back to the 1700s. While at the hotel/condos, which were not in great shape she stumbles upon an elevator that transports her back to the time the states were fighting for liberty. And meets Duncan, a patriot. They fall in love and are married. She tries to explain modern day America to him.
Then they end up back in the elevator being sent to the 1990s.
Where will they end up?
This took some getting into for me.
AMAZON - Pirates
SANDY SAYS 2/3 STARS
Phoebe divorced and now out of a job is at a loss as to what to do. She gets someone else's mail, an advertisement for a free trip to the Caribbean; all she has to do is look at the condos for sale. She decides to do it, if only to get away.
Get away she does, all the way back to the 1700s. While at the hotel/condos, which were not in great shape she stumbles upon an elevator that transports her back to the time the states were fighting for liberty. And meets Duncan, a patriot. They fall in love and are married. She tries to explain modern day America to him.
Then they end up back in the elevator being sent to the 1990s.
Where will they end up?
This took some getting into for me.
AMAZON - Pirates
SANDY SAYS 2/3 STARS
Monday, July 22, 2013
THE WOMEN OF PRIMROSE CREEK by Linda Lael Miller
Here you have four stories in one book. Each about a different girl. Bridget and Skye are sisters, Christy and Megan are sisters, and they are all cousins-or are they?
They were raised on their grandparents farm in Virginia.
Bridget married Mitch in an attempt to keep him out of the war. He did not survive and she is now a widower with a small son. She and Noah and Skye travel to Nevada to claim their share of their grandfathers inheritance after they have to sell off the farm. Her old friend Trace finds them.
Christy and her sister Megan were taken to England when their mother divorced their father. Little did they know that they were to be shipped off to boarding school. After learning of their grandfathers death they travel back to the states. Eventually following Bridget and Skye to their inheritance as well.
Skye helps Bridget with Noah, but also everything else. She ends up on her share of the land and pans for gold. She also attempts to capture a wild stallion. All of the girls have ridden since they could walk.
Megan wants to be an actress and after the fire that nearly destroyed the town, she runs off.
Only to return 2 years later alone and penniless. Thanks to a man that stole her money and ran off.
There are surprises along the way.
I really enjoyed this book
AMAZON - The Women of Primrose Creek
SANDY SAYS 3/3 STARS
They were raised on their grandparents farm in Virginia.
Bridget married Mitch in an attempt to keep him out of the war. He did not survive and she is now a widower with a small son. She and Noah and Skye travel to Nevada to claim their share of their grandfathers inheritance after they have to sell off the farm. Her old friend Trace finds them.
Christy and her sister Megan were taken to England when their mother divorced their father. Little did they know that they were to be shipped off to boarding school. After learning of their grandfathers death they travel back to the states. Eventually following Bridget and Skye to their inheritance as well.
Skye helps Bridget with Noah, but also everything else. She ends up on her share of the land and pans for gold. She also attempts to capture a wild stallion. All of the girls have ridden since they could walk.
Megan wants to be an actress and after the fire that nearly destroyed the town, she runs off.
Only to return 2 years later alone and penniless. Thanks to a man that stole her money and ran off.
There are surprises along the way.
I really enjoyed this book
AMAZON - The Women of Primrose Creek
SANDY SAYS 3/3 STARS
Thursday, July 18, 2013
A WANTED MAN - A Stone Creek Novel by Linda Lael Miller
This is a historical western. I usually don't read either of these type stories.
The book took some going for me, as it didn't hold my interest for long. However it was a good book.
Lark Morgan is on the run and scared. She lands in Stone Creek, in the Arizona Territory and becomes the schoolmarm. She rents a room from Mrs. Porter. Lark has a secret past that she is running from.
Rowdy Rhodes comes to town because Sam O'Ballivan and Major Blackstone summoned him. They make him the town Marshall but secretly make him a ranger. The rangers are trying to catch the outlaws that have been robbing trains. But, he also has a past he is trying to hide.
What are their secrets? Is it possible to find a safe place?
AMAZON - A Wanted Man-a Stone Creek Novel
SANDY SAYS 2/3 STARS
The book took some going for me, as it didn't hold my interest for long. However it was a good book.
Lark Morgan is on the run and scared. She lands in Stone Creek, in the Arizona Territory and becomes the schoolmarm. She rents a room from Mrs. Porter. Lark has a secret past that she is running from.
Rowdy Rhodes comes to town because Sam O'Ballivan and Major Blackstone summoned him. They make him the town Marshall but secretly make him a ranger. The rangers are trying to catch the outlaws that have been robbing trains. But, he also has a past he is trying to hide.
What are their secrets? Is it possible to find a safe place?
AMAZON - A Wanted Man-a Stone Creek Novel
SANDY SAYS 2/3 STARS
Monday, July 8, 2013
UNTIL THERE WAS YOU by Kristan Higgins
This is the first book I have read of Kristan's. I speed read, but I don't skim the paragraphs; I read every word. However this book does not flow well for me. As well, there are numerous stories going on. Some of the wording was off, to me as well.
Posey Osterhagen is the adopted daughter of Max and Stacia, they also have an adopted son Henry. Henry is married to Jon, who is the high school home ec teacher and one of Posey's best friends. Her cousin Gretchen has always caused her problems and comes back to town to help Posey's parents with their restaurant.
While in high school a "bad boy" comes to town to stay with an uncle. Liam is fresh out of juvie and rides a motorcycle. He works for Posey's parents and she has a big crush on him.
Years later Liam and his teenage daughter move back to town. Posey still likes him.
What will happen?
AMAZON - Until There Was You
SANDY SAYS 2/3 STARS
Posey Osterhagen is the adopted daughter of Max and Stacia, they also have an adopted son Henry. Henry is married to Jon, who is the high school home ec teacher and one of Posey's best friends. Her cousin Gretchen has always caused her problems and comes back to town to help Posey's parents with their restaurant.
While in high school a "bad boy" comes to town to stay with an uncle. Liam is fresh out of juvie and rides a motorcycle. He works for Posey's parents and she has a big crush on him.
Years later Liam and his teenage daughter move back to town. Posey still likes him.
What will happen?
AMAZON - Until There Was You
SANDY SAYS 2/3 STARS
Wednesday, July 3, 2013
THE WITNESS by Nora Roberts
This is Nora Roberts 200th novel. I think this is the best book by her, that I have read. It hooked me the first page. The only downside was the language. You have murder, romance, witness protection and more all rolled up into 1 story.
Elizabeth Fitch is the only child of Dr Susan Fitch, the chief of surgery at a Chicago hospital. Her mother choose her child's biological father using a long list of requirements. She was also very controlling and there was no mother child bonding.
At 16 Elizabeth was already in pre med at Havard-her mothers wishes. She rebels when her mother goes to a medical conference and becomes involved in a whole chain of events out of her control.
Including witnessing a murder by a Russian mob, going into witness protection and seeing the first two people to truly care about her murdered.
After being on the run and moving frequently, she settles in a small town in Arkansas.
AMAZON - The Witness
SANDY SAYS 3/3 STARS
Elizabeth Fitch is the only child of Dr Susan Fitch, the chief of surgery at a Chicago hospital. Her mother choose her child's biological father using a long list of requirements. She was also very controlling and there was no mother child bonding.
At 16 Elizabeth was already in pre med at Havard-her mothers wishes. She rebels when her mother goes to a medical conference and becomes involved in a whole chain of events out of her control.
Including witnessing a murder by a Russian mob, going into witness protection and seeing the first two people to truly care about her murdered.
After being on the run and moving frequently, she settles in a small town in Arkansas.
AMAZON - The Witness
SANDY SAYS 3/3 STARS
Sunday, June 30, 2013
THE NEWCOMER- a Thunder Point Novel by Robyn Carr
This story is jam packed with mini stories.
Mac-Deputy Yummy Pants is a divorced father of three. His Aunt Lou lives with them and helps take care of the family. Gina is a single, never married mother of a teenage daughter and they live with her mother. Gina's daughter Ashley and Macs daughter Eve are the same age, and best friends. Gina and Mac have been friends for a long time, then their relationship moves forward.
Through in Macs ex wife showing up out of the blue after 10 years. Ashley's breakup with her boyfriend. And, Conner a newcomer to the small northwestern town; finds out he has a son-10 years after he was born.
AMAZON - The Newcomer-aThunder Point Novel
SANDY SAYS 3/3 STARS
Mac-Deputy Yummy Pants is a divorced father of three. His Aunt Lou lives with them and helps take care of the family. Gina is a single, never married mother of a teenage daughter and they live with her mother. Gina's daughter Ashley and Macs daughter Eve are the same age, and best friends. Gina and Mac have been friends for a long time, then their relationship moves forward.
Through in Macs ex wife showing up out of the blue after 10 years. Ashley's breakup with her boyfriend. And, Conner a newcomer to the small northwestern town; finds out he has a son-10 years after he was born.
AMAZON - The Newcomer-aThunder Point Novel
SANDY SAYS 3/3 STARS
Wednesday, June 26, 2013
SANTA CRUISE-a Holiday Mystery at Sea by Mary Higgins Clark and Carol Higgins Clark
Do you like holidays and holidays stories? I do! This is a very quick and enjoyable holiday mystery.
Another Reilly mystery. Regan Reilly Reilly has recently married Jack Reilly. Regan is a private investigator and Jack is head of the Major Case Squad in Manhatten. Regans parents are Nora, a suspense writer and Luke a funeral director. They meet up with friends Alvirah and her husband Willy. They are lottery winners and have been invited on the maiden voyage of the Royal Mermaids Santa Cruise. A free cruise to people that have done good throughout the year. Little did they know they were about to have a mystery to solve. Mishaps start from the time the board the ship. Through in some felons attempting to flee the country, along with other people who are not as they appear....
AMAZON - Santa Cruise-a Holiday Mystery at Sea
SANDY SAYS 3/3 STARS
Another Reilly mystery. Regan Reilly Reilly has recently married Jack Reilly. Regan is a private investigator and Jack is head of the Major Case Squad in Manhatten. Regans parents are Nora, a suspense writer and Luke a funeral director. They meet up with friends Alvirah and her husband Willy. They are lottery winners and have been invited on the maiden voyage of the Royal Mermaids Santa Cruise. A free cruise to people that have done good throughout the year. Little did they know they were about to have a mystery to solve. Mishaps start from the time the board the ship. Through in some felons attempting to flee the country, along with other people who are not as they appear....
AMAZON - Santa Cruise-a Holiday Mystery at Sea
SANDY SAYS 3/3 STARS
Thursday, June 20, 2013
BIG SKY SUMMER-The Parable Series by Linda Lael Miller
The first book I have read of Linda's. It was not a bad story, however I could not stay with it for long. It seemed to drag.
Casey Elder is a famous country singer. She has 2 children Clare and Shane. They have been raised on the road with their mom, under the impression they were test tube babies.
Casey decides to settle in Parable, Montana. Walker Parrish owns a ranch there. And, as it turns out is the children's father.
Will they tell the kids? How will they tell them? Will Casey continue with her career?
AMAZON - Big Sky Summer
SANDY SAYS 2/3 STARS
Casey Elder is a famous country singer. She has 2 children Clare and Shane. They have been raised on the road with their mom, under the impression they were test tube babies.
Casey decides to settle in Parable, Montana. Walker Parrish owns a ranch there. And, as it turns out is the children's father.
Will they tell the kids? How will they tell them? Will Casey continue with her career?
AMAZON - Big Sky Summer
SANDY SAYS 2/3 STARS
Sunday, June 16, 2013
HARN MUSEUM OF ART
Location and Phone Number
3259 Hull Road Gainesville, Fl 32611
352-392-9826
Hours
Closed on Mondays and State Holidays
Sun 1-5pm
Tues-Fri 11am-5pm
Sat 10am-5pm
second Thursday of each month 6pm-9pm
Camellia Cafe Court Hours
Tues-Sat 11am-2pm
Fees
$4.00 to park, unless you have a UF parking pass decal
I enjoyed the jade sculptures. As well as the photography section. But, favorite had to be the Monet
They give tours Sat. and Sun at 2pm
They also rent space for meetings or parties
Photos courtesy of Sandy Lampp
Harn Museum of Art
referenced for hours, fees etc
I am not paid by or affiliated with the Harm Museum of Art.
The observations are strictly my own.
The prices and hours were in effect when I was there 06/12/2013
3259 Hull Road Gainesville, Fl 32611
352-392-9826
Hours
Closed on Mondays and State Holidays
Sun 1-5pm
Tues-Fri 11am-5pm
Sat 10am-5pm
second Thursday of each month 6pm-9pm
Camellia Cafe Court Hours
Tues-Sat 11am-2pm
Fees
$4.00 to park, unless you have a UF parking pass decal
I enjoyed the jade sculptures. As well as the photography section. But, favorite had to be the Monet
They give tours Sat. and Sun at 2pm
They also rent space for meetings or parties
Photos courtesy of Sandy Lampp
Harn Museum of Art
referenced for hours, fees etc
I am not paid by or affiliated with the Harm Museum of Art.
The observations are strictly my own.
The prices and hours were in effect when I was there 06/12/2013
FLORIDA MUSEUM OF NATURAL HISTORY
Location and Phone Number
University of Florida Cultural Plaza
3215 Hull Road
Gainesville, Fl 32611
352-846-2000
Hours
Sun 1-5 pm
Mon-Sat 10 am-5pm
Fees
$4.00 per car to park, if you do not have a UF parking pass decal
There is a charge to enter the snake exhibit and butterfly exhibit.
It is a nice museum, with many sections. You can see employees working through glass windows with butterflies. There is a "cave" you can go in. There are a lot of fossils and replicas. After visiting the Denver Natural Museum many times, I am spoiled. But, this was not a bad museum. The section on the native Indians of Florida, I found to be to dark to fully enjoy it.
Photos Courtesy of Sandy Lampp
Florida Museum of Natural History
referenced for hours, etc
I am not paid by or affiliated with the Florida Museum of Natural History.
The observations are strictly my own.
The prices and hours were in effect when I was there 06/12/2013
University of Florida Cultural Plaza
3215 Hull Road
Gainesville, Fl 32611
352-846-2000
Hours
Sun 1-5 pm
Mon-Sat 10 am-5pm
Fees
$4.00 per car to park, if you do not have a UF parking pass decal
There is a charge to enter the snake exhibit and butterfly exhibit.
It is a nice museum, with many sections. You can see employees working through glass windows with butterflies. There is a "cave" you can go in. There are a lot of fossils and replicas. After visiting the Denver Natural Museum many times, I am spoiled. But, this was not a bad museum. The section on the native Indians of Florida, I found to be to dark to fully enjoy it.
Photos Courtesy of Sandy LamppFlorida Museum of Natural History
referenced for hours, etc
I am not paid by or affiliated with the Florida Museum of Natural History.
The observations are strictly my own.
The prices and hours were in effect when I was there 06/12/2013
SEA GLASS ISLAND an Ocean Breeze Novel by Sherryl Woods
The story of the third Castle sister-Samantha. Samantha comes back to Sand Castle Bay, NC; for her sister Emily's wedding. They stay at their grandmothers and if need be assist in their grandmothers restaurant. Cora Jane, their grandmother; wants nothing more than her granddaughters married and happy. Emily is about to marry her first love. Gabi has had a baby and has a good man in her life, Wade; they will get married sometime. So, that leaves Samantha. Her high school crush, Ethan was the big football star and a little older; never even knew her then. He went into the military only to have an injury cost him part of his leg. He recovers and becomes a Dr. But, after being dumped by his fiance due to his injury never intends to put himself out there again. Unfortunately the Castle women are matchmakers.
AMAZON - Sea Glass Island
SANDY SAYS 3/3 STARS
AMAZON - Sea Glass Island
SANDY SAYS 3/3 STARS
Tuesday, June 4, 2013
DOCKSIDE-THE LAKESHORE CHRONICLES by Susan Wiggs
Another fun and fast story.
Nina Romano is a single mother, her daughter Sonnet just graduated from high school. Sonnet is going to spend the summer with her father and his family overseas, before returning to the states to start college. As Nina got pregnant at 15, she is ready to "start" her life. She is 1 of 9 children, growing up in a home with little money but lots of love and support. Her mother works the summers at Camp Kioga as the cook. The camp is owned by the Bellamy family, and Nina develops a crush on Greg Bellamy. Nina works summers at the Inn at Willow Lake. She has plans to manage and eventually buy the inn. But, Greg Bellamy buys it first. He is divorced and living in Avalon with his 2 children.
Throw in a wedding along with the remodeling of the Inn and anything can happen.
AMAZON - Dockside The Lakeshore Chronicles
SANDY SAYS 3/3 STARS
Nina Romano is a single mother, her daughter Sonnet just graduated from high school. Sonnet is going to spend the summer with her father and his family overseas, before returning to the states to start college. As Nina got pregnant at 15, she is ready to "start" her life. She is 1 of 9 children, growing up in a home with little money but lots of love and support. Her mother works the summers at Camp Kioga as the cook. The camp is owned by the Bellamy family, and Nina develops a crush on Greg Bellamy. Nina works summers at the Inn at Willow Lake. She has plans to manage and eventually buy the inn. But, Greg Bellamy buys it first. He is divorced and living in Avalon with his 2 children.
Throw in a wedding along with the remodeling of the Inn and anything can happen.
AMAZON - Dockside The Lakeshore Chronicles
SANDY SAYS 3/3 STARS
Monday, May 27, 2013
SUMMER RENTAL by Mary Kay Andrews
This is the first story I have read by this author. It was a very quick and enjoyable read and I look forward to reading more of her books.
Growing up near the beach, this story grabbed me right away; about spending a month in a beach house. You have Ellis, Dorie and Julia, who have been friends since grade school. Now in their thirties, they decide to spend August at the beach in Nags Head. Willa, Dorie's sister invites herself along only to cancel at the last minute. That leaves the other three to cover her cost. The house they rented is right n the beach, however the house is in bad shape. The owner can only be reached by email. And, to top it off there is a beach bum living in the garage apartment.
AMAZON - Summer Rental
SANDY SAYS 3/3 STARS
Growing up near the beach, this story grabbed me right away; about spending a month in a beach house. You have Ellis, Dorie and Julia, who have been friends since grade school. Now in their thirties, they decide to spend August at the beach in Nags Head. Willa, Dorie's sister invites herself along only to cancel at the last minute. That leaves the other three to cover her cost. The house they rented is right n the beach, however the house is in bad shape. The owner can only be reached by email. And, to top it off there is a beach bum living in the garage apartment.
AMAZON - Summer Rental
SANDY SAYS 3/3 STARS
Thursday, May 23, 2013
THE WANDERER A THUNDER POINT NOVEL by Robyn Carr
This took me a little bit to get into the story. But, enjoyed it then. Set in Thunder Point, Oregon and during the fall-New Year.
Cooper-Hank Cooper comes to town after learning of the death of an Army buddy. They along with another buddy were to have met up and gone hunting. Cooper wants to find out what happened and meets with the Sheriff, Mac. Turns out Ben owns land that includes beachfront, an old bait shop, dock and bar/ deli. Mac informs Cooper that Ben fell down the stairs leading to the cellar, which strikes Cooper as strange as Ben was a large man. Include in the mix the very small town and way of small towns. Cooper is not the only newcomer, there is Sarah and her brother Landon.
What will Cooper do? Will he keep the property since he inherited it? Will he move on as is his custom?
This is the first of a new series
AMAZON - The Wanderer a Thunder Point Novel
SANDY SAYS 2/3 STARS
Cooper-Hank Cooper comes to town after learning of the death of an Army buddy. They along with another buddy were to have met up and gone hunting. Cooper wants to find out what happened and meets with the Sheriff, Mac. Turns out Ben owns land that includes beachfront, an old bait shop, dock and bar/ deli. Mac informs Cooper that Ben fell down the stairs leading to the cellar, which strikes Cooper as strange as Ben was a large man. Include in the mix the very small town and way of small towns. Cooper is not the only newcomer, there is Sarah and her brother Landon.
What will Cooper do? Will he keep the property since he inherited it? Will he move on as is his custom?
This is the first of a new series
AMAZON - The Wanderer a Thunder Point Novel
SANDY SAYS 2/3 STARS
Friday, May 17, 2013
DUDLEY FARM HISTORIC STAE PARK
Location and Phone Number
18730 W Newberry Road
Newberry, Fl. 32669
352-472-1142
Located 7 miles west of I 75, exit 387
Hours
9 am - 4 pm Wednesday- Sunday
Fees
$5 per carload with a maximum of 8 people
$2.00 Pedestrians, bicyclists, extra passengers, passengers in vehicle with holder of Annual Individual Entrance Pass.
Honor system, you stop on way in and pay.
Groups should make reservations 1 month in advance
Have you ever wanted to step back in time? Dudley Farm spans 150 years and 3 generations of the Dudley's. They lived and farmed here. There are a total of 640 acres, with the park today spanning over 325 of those acres. The land and buildings were donated to the state in 1983 by Myrtle Dudley. The 18 buildings are authentic and not re created. It was very interesting. And, you can see horses, mules, turkeys and chickens. You can see the fields of crops. People in period costume are there as well, helping to complete the picture. They have several events throughout the year.
Photos courtesy of Steve and Sandy Lampp
Dudley Farm Historic State Park
(Link used for the hours, location and fees)
I am not paid by or affiliated with the Dudley Farm.
The observations are strictly my own.
The prices and hours were in effect when I was there 05/17/2013
18730 W Newberry Road
Newberry, Fl. 32669
352-472-1142
Located 7 miles west of I 75, exit 387
Hours
9 am - 4 pm Wednesday- Sunday
Fees
$5 per carload with a maximum of 8 people
$2.00 Pedestrians, bicyclists, extra passengers, passengers in vehicle with holder of Annual Individual Entrance Pass.
Honor system, you stop on way in and pay.
Groups should make reservations 1 month in advance
Have you ever wanted to step back in time? Dudley Farm spans 150 years and 3 generations of the Dudley's. They lived and farmed here. There are a total of 640 acres, with the park today spanning over 325 of those acres. The land and buildings were donated to the state in 1983 by Myrtle Dudley. The 18 buildings are authentic and not re created. It was very interesting. And, you can see horses, mules, turkeys and chickens. You can see the fields of crops. People in period costume are there as well, helping to complete the picture. They have several events throughout the year.
Photos courtesy of Steve and Sandy Lampp
Dudley Farm Historic State Park
(Link used for the hours, location and fees)
I am not paid by or affiliated with the Dudley Farm.
The observations are strictly my own.
The prices and hours were in effect when I was there 05/17/2013
Wednesday, May 15, 2013
ANGEL MINE A Whispering Wind Novel by Sherryl Woods
One thing I love about Sherryl's stories are that the are quick to read, and upbeat. They may be predictable but that is another thing I enjoy. Knowing kind of what to expect when I get one of her books.
Heather and Todd are actors and in love. Todd takes a job for financial security and that causes a break with Heather. Three years later, heather has an adorable little girl Angel. Feeling overwhelmed she sets off to Wyoming to find Todd, Angels father. Only problem is that Todd has a secret from when he was a teenager and that leaves him terrified to be around small children.
AMAZON - Angel Mine
SANDY SAYS 3/3 STARS
Heather and Todd are actors and in love. Todd takes a job for financial security and that causes a break with Heather. Three years later, heather has an adorable little girl Angel. Feeling overwhelmed she sets off to Wyoming to find Todd, Angels father. Only problem is that Todd has a secret from when he was a teenager and that leaves him terrified to be around small children.
AMAZON - Angel Mine
SANDY SAYS 3/3 STARS
Sunday, May 12, 2013
WIND CHIME POINT an Ocean Breeze Novel by Sherryl Woods
The second in a trilogy about three sisters. A very quick and enjoyable read.
This is the story of Gabriella. She along with her two sisters spent their summers in Sand Castle Bay, NC with their grandmother. After helping her sisters and her grandmother get the family restaurant back open after a hurricane, she heads back to Raleigh and her life. Which is being a top PR women for the biomedical company she works for, and her boyfriend. Only to get pregnant, have her boyfriend reject her and the baby and then be let go from the company because she is unmarked and pregnant. So, back to grandmothers house she goes.
What will happen? Will she keep the baby? Will she find a job? What about her budding friendship with Wade?
AMAZON - Wind Chime Point
SANDY SAYS 3/3 STARS
This is the story of Gabriella. She along with her two sisters spent their summers in Sand Castle Bay, NC with their grandmother. After helping her sisters and her grandmother get the family restaurant back open after a hurricane, she heads back to Raleigh and her life. Which is being a top PR women for the biomedical company she works for, and her boyfriend. Only to get pregnant, have her boyfriend reject her and the baby and then be let go from the company because she is unmarked and pregnant. So, back to grandmothers house she goes.
What will happen? Will she keep the baby? Will she find a job? What about her budding friendship with Wade?
AMAZON - Wind Chime Point
SANDY SAYS 3/3 STARS
Thursday, May 9, 2013
PAYNES PRAIRIE PRESERVE STATE BANK LA CHAU TRAIL
Directions and Hours
From the park’s main entrance on US 441 north of Micanopy, drive north, crossing the vastness of the prairie to reach Gainesville. At the first traffic light, SR 331, turn right. Keep to the right and drive 2.2 miles to SE 4th Street. When this road ends after 0.9 mile, keep right to turn onto SE 15th Street (CR 2043). You’ll pass Bouleware Springs Park just before coming to a bend in the road. At 1 mile, take the right turn off the bend, and head straight into the park entrance, Camp Ranch Road. This entrance is only open on weekdays. The gate is locked at 5 PM. On weekends and holidays, park at Bouleware Springs and walk in on the Gainesville-Hawthorne Rail Trail.
Fees
$2 per person You walk from parking lot to beginning of trail and the payment stand is there, they do the honor system and you are supposed to hang placard in your car
Trail
Part of the trail is on a concrete path, that turns into a wooden boardwalk that leads to lookout spots. You then can leave and walk on a natural path. We walked to the end where
there was another lookout spot. We walked 3 plus miles. Along the way you will see lots of birds, snakes, alligators, horses. They are in their natural environment so beware. You will have lots to take pictures of. You may want to bring water along.
(link to the Florida State Parks information, directions and fees used above)
I am not paid by or affiliated with the Paynes Prairie La Chau Trail Park.
The observations are strictly my own.
The prices and hours were in effect when I was there 04/26/2013
The observations are strictly my own.
The prices and hours were in effect when I was there 04/26/2013
POSSUM CREEK PARK
Location and Hours
4009 NW 53rd Ave, Gainesville, Fl
Dawn to Dusk
Fees
Free, unsure if there is a fee to reserve covered patio.
This is a large park, 76 acres. They have a large playground, covered patio with picnic tables and bbq grills, soccer fields, huge skateboard area, 2 fenced dog areas-1 for small dogs and 1 for large dogs, gazebo and nature trails. At one end of a nature trail there is a huge over area ideal for kite flying and picnics. There are restrooms.
Warning-while in the woods on the nature trails there are roots, be careful where you walk.
And, mosquitos.
Downside is when you are walking on the trails, you hear all the traffic noise.
All in all, I was impressed with this park. Awesome area for families and kids.
Photos courtesy of Sandy Lampp
I am not paid by or affiliated with the Possum Creek Park.
The observations are strictly my own.
The prices and hours were in effect when I was there 05/08/2013
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