"There was once a common understanding in our society among men that there are standards of action and behavior to which men should hold themselves."

It is this lack of behavioral standards in modern humanity that Bennett bemoans, and seeks to help reverse. From Plato and Socrates to Colin Powell and George W. Bush, he has pulled together wisdom, advice, guidance, and examples of men at their best, and their worst, in all aspects of life: Man in War; Man at Work; Man in Play, Sports, and Leisure; Man in the Polis; Man with Woman and Children; Man in Prayer and Reflection.

The people cited in this book get up every day and go to work. They leave their homes to defend their beliefs and their countries. Unlike so many these days, they respect their elders and authority, don't delight in the death of any living creature, and take their responsibilities seriously.

They offer insight into a life well lived that is rarely found in one volume.

*****

The Book of Man is slow going and that's a good thing. Each essay or letter or literary excerpt deserves to be carefully read and analyzed for its meaning and lesson for our lives. Because, as Bennett points out in the introduction, these values and qualities are not exclusive to the male of the species.

I don't, necessarily, agree with all of Bennett's choices. Some of his shining examples are a little tarnished from my perspective. But, I'd like to think that there is no one who doesn't have something to teach me. And that there isn't a great deal I have to learn.

What parent doesn't hope that their children, of either gender, will grow up to be caring, generous, responsible adults? And who, among us, can't use all the help they can get? This book would be a great gift for young adults and parents of all ages.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher through the BookSneeze®.com <http://BookSneeze®.com> book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.

With brutal honesty, Ling shares her upbringing and what life in China was like for women in the '80s; how limited the freedom and how strict the expectations. Permits were required to marry and have children; a woman was to defer to her father and her husband.

It was, in many ways, that societal pressure that led to her involvement in the protest. She felt she should support her husband, who was an active leader.

Following the military action in Tiananmen Square, Ling was on the run for ten months, altering her features to escape detection and execution by the government. Eventually, she and her husband escaped to Paris and, from there, to the United States.

Freedoms that Americans take for granted were difficult for Ling and many of her friends who also made it to the US. Luckily, her story has a happy ending. Unlike so many who were in that square on June 4, 1989.

*****

This was a difficult book for me to read. Mostly because I simply couldn't comprehend living in a world of limited to no rights or personal freedoms. Of living in fear that saying or doing the wrong thing could end your life or destroy your family. Of poverty so extreme that surely death would be preferable.

I recommend this book to everyone. Life for the average person has not improved greatly in China since 1989; for women, the story is far worse.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher through the Tyndale Blog Network <http://mediacenter.tyndale.com/> book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.

What October doesn't know is that the cemetery is home to five kids, about her age, from different eras of the town. Those five ghosts are only allowed to come out once a year, for a few days until Halloween. They aren't happy to find out October isn't a ghost - but, eventually, the six manage to become friends.

When the French teacher dies in a mysterious accident at school, October decides to investigate - with the help of the five dead kids. Well, it makes sense, doesn't it? They can walk through walls and get into places that she can't. Of course, not all of them can read and write, so there are some problems along the way.

Before they know it the kids (including October's school friends, who don't know about the ghosts) are knee-deep in murder plots, car chases, and searching for clues. Will they find out the truth? Will they get caught? And what happens when the five dead kids have to go back at midnight on Halloween?

This has to be one of the greatest young fiction titles I've read since I was a tween/teen. The characters drew me in and took me back several decades. I found myself hunched over the laptop, scrolling like a maniac, eager to keep up with the kids.

Although there's a lot of time in a cemetery and murder plots and evil doings, it's not a frightening story. It's an exciting, fun adventure. And certainly made me hope that there are going to be many more cases for the Dead Kid Detective Agency.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received a complimentary electronic galley of this book from the publisher through NetGalley.com <http://www.netgalley.com/> professional readers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.

As party plans progress and Wren fights for her job, she is forced to relive the tragedies that split her family apart. And face a growing attraction to a local man at the same time her ex-husband appears to be stepping back into their lives.

Will she be able to give her son what he needs; and where will that be? Can she let go of old hurts and resentments to make peace with her siblings? What should she do about her feelings for Paul, and for Charlie's dad? And what has Charlie been praying for?

*****

Sweet Sanctuary is a good read. The characters are, by and large, well-written and well-rounded; Charlie is just a joy. It was easy to lose myself in the story, curious how all the problems would resolve.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher through the BookSneeze®.com <http://BookSneeze®.com> book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.

In this, the fourth book of the series, the cousins finally meet Albert and learn why he needed their help. Treasures have been disappearing from Lord Darkthorn's castle and fingers are pointing at Albert, who was in charge of caring for them. But, as usual, Patrick and Beth discover that things aren't exactly what them seem.

Will they be able to track down the missing treasures, before Lord Darkthorn returns and punishes Albert? And, if they do, how will they call the Imagination Station and get home?

*****

Another well-written story from The Imagination Station and Adventures in Odyssey, offers a trip through medieval history that kids will love. When the reading is done, there is a Secret Word puzzle and links to exciting online adventures in the back of the book.

Can't wait to read the next story. And I'll bet your kids will agree.

Recommended for Ages 7 and up
Fleisch-Kincaid Grade Level: 2.1

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher through the Tyndale Blog Network <http://mediacenter.tyndale.com/> book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.

This is the second book from the founders of Prayer Shawl Ministry*. And they offer much more than patterns and prayers. There are the expected, or at least hoped-for, crochet terms, yarn descriptions, and designer biographies.

What isn't expected, is the appendix covering colors and symbolism. As an example, I made an afghan in varying sizes of squares and rectangles, in red and black a few years ago. I thought it was cool; so did the recipient.

Little did I know that, with those colors and shapes, I was promoting energy, vigor, and health (red); strength, self-confidence, and harmony (black); and balance (squares). Important needs to the young man who received the afghan.

I have never made a prayer shawl, but I can't resist crochet books. This one is beautiful - patterns, stories, and images that touch the mind, the heart, and inspire a need to pick up some yarn and a hook.

Whether you're part of a prayer shawl ministry, want to be, or just love crocheting shawls - you're going to want to add this book to your library.

* "Whether they are called Prayer Shawls, Comfort Shawls, Peace Shawls, or Mantles, etc., the shawl maker begins with prayers and blessings for the recipient. The intentions are continued throughout the creation of the shawl. Upon completion, a final blessing is offered before the shawl is sent on its way."

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received a complimentary electronic galley of this book from the publisher through NetGalley.com <http://www.netgalley.com/> professional readers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.

Alex was in a coma for weeks and, frankly, few people believed he would survive. The impact of the accident, effectively, separated Alex's skull from his spinal cord. Doctors expected he would never breathe on his own, swallow, or have normal brain function.

Luckily, Alex's life was being held in much stronger hands. And, in a few short months, he was able to share with friends and family what had happened to him - from the time of the accident; how he had watched what was happening to his body. To tell them of angels, demons, truths, and lies.

Of how he spoke with God.

*****

As a parent, this is not an easy book to read. I had to stop several times in the early chapters, overcome by emotion. And, honestly, I don't know that I'd have believed what I read in the later chapters, if it weren't for the images and x-rays.

It's simply too amazing.

But there is no denying that Alex probably shouldn't be alive. He probably shouldn't be doing the things he's doing today. And there is certainly no medical explanation for his recovery.

Whether you believe in miracles, or not, this is an incredible story that will make you think - and feel. And wonder.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher through the Tyndale Blog Network <http://mediacenter.tyndale.com/> book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.

The first day at school, Autumn's world turned upside down. Her son's new history teacher who was single and getting divorced (or so everyone kept telling her)? Good ol' Mr. T? was Henry! Her Henry!

And he was not happy to see her -- especially after she bounced into the bookcase, knocked down the encyclopedias, and bloodied his nose rushing to pick them up - in front of twenty of her son's new classmates. She was mortified, Elliott was mortified, and Henry was wounded.

Autumn stumbled out of the room, knowing her heart hadn't changed. But would Henry ever forgive her? Would he ever love her again?

I guess we all have a 'what-if' person in our past; a wondering in ourselves about what might have happened ... if. If we had gotten together or if we hadn't broken up, where would we be today? And what if we had the chance to do what we didn't or undo what we did?

That's what this book is about - second chances.

It may have been the intention, but many of the conversations and behaviors felt too much like high school. The main character, her thoughts and interactions, seemed to be formed by a teenager who was imagining life as a grown-up. And, perhaps, a tad more research could have gone into the father's condition.

Nonetheless, it was a fun book and a great summer read.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received a complimentary electronic galley of this book from the publisher through NetGalley.com <http://www.netgalley.com/> professional readers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.

One of the travelers in their camp, Zachariah, is an old friend of Sean's and, I suspect, the author's alter ego. He shares the story of his work: studying the survival skills of the animals of the Serengeti and how those skills can be applied in our lives.

There are seven animals and seven types of skills: the strategic lion, enterprising crocodile, efficient cheetah, enduring wildebeest, risk-taking mongoose, communicating elephant, and graceful giraffe. Each of us, in our daily lives, instinctively responds to problems and challenges - to threats to our survival - with a skill set that matches one of these animal's.

Which one are you? Which skills would you like to master?

*****

I must admit, I didn't expect to enjoy this book. Self-improvement tomes always seem dry, preachy, and pushy. Not to mention, five minutes after I finish them, I've forgotten what they said.

Happily, Surviving Your Serengeti was none of those things. And, because the messages were attached to and surrounded by incredible mental images, they stayed with me long after I flipped the last page.

Admittedly, the story portion of the book is a little rough. It was, obviously, not written by a novelist. But it is, nonetheless, engaging.

This is a book that you'll need to read twice. Simply because, the first time through, you'll be too busy sightseeing your way across the Serengeti to notice the message.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher through the BookSneeze®.com <http://BookSneeze®.com> book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.

When the leader of the survivalist community learns that his daughter has been taken by the Rebuilders, he vows to get her back. And Cass, with nothing left for her now that Smoke is gone, packs up her daughter and insists on going with him.

Suddenly, Cass finds herself deeply involved with two men and an organization that has vowed, by any means necessary, to ensure the rebirth of humanity.

This is the fascinating story of one woman, trying to create a normal life in an extremely abnormal world.

There is no doubt that this is the second book in a series, although I didn't know that in the beginning. Consequently, when I first started reading, I kept feeling that I was missing something. That there was something I should know or understand, but simply wasn't getting.

Once Cass, Ruthie, and Dor leave to find his daughter, and some details from the previous book are shared, my confusion cleared and it was easy to lose myself in the remaining chapters. The author paints word pictures that carry her readers into the Aftertime, with all of its sites, scents, and dangers. A very exciting journey - that I highly recommend.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received a complimentary electronic galley of this book from the publisher through NetGalley.com <http://www.netgalley.com/> professional readers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.

*****

Alexis Austin has troubles. She's fourteen years old, living in a former mortuary with a collection of kooks, misfits, and anti-establishment former (or not so former) protesters.

With her mother unable to run the hotel, Alexis has taken over the cleaning and repairing and afternoon teas. And the care and maintenance of her extremely quirky tenants. The roof leaks, the plumbing's bad; a crow, a snake, and a bathtub full of fish only add to the chaos.

Then, things get worse: There is a plot to sell the hotel.

This is the only home her tenants have; the only home Alexis has ever known. How can a young girl and a sea of lost souls, with widely varying grips on reality, save Hotel Angeline? What about Alexis' missing father? her suddenly militant surrogate dad?

As things continue to go from bad to worse, which almost seems impossible, Alexis learns about herself, her strengths, and who her friends truly are. She also discovers what makes a family and that, sometimes, it's okay to just be fourteen.

*****

Not surprisingly, with 36 minds telling Alexis' story, the novel is a little uneven. The jumps in perspective between some of the chapters is a bit jarring; especially the illustrated chapter. But, oddly enough, when push comes to shove and you turn the last page - it works.

The best advice - taken from the foreword - is to read this book as you would read any novel: Sit down, open the cover (fire-up the ereader), and dig in. Ignore the author names at the beginning of each chapter.

Get to know Alexis, Linda, LJ, Habib. Enjoy the characters who are Ursula, Roberta, Otto, and Mr. Kenji. They are fascinating.

Trust me.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received a complimentary electronic galley of this book from the publisher through NetGalley.com <http://www.netgalley.com/> professional readers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.

At his first post with the 27th, Prew became a boxer. After a bout that nearly killed a man, he gave up fighting. Constant harassment and abuse, designed to force him back in the ring, instead sent Prew to 'A' Company, home of the bugle corps.

Now, as the novel begins, Prew has been passed over for promotion to First Bugler in favor of a company 'pet.' There are rumors that Prew rejected his commander's advances; he isn't saying. But, once again, he is transferred.

His new home, 'G' Company, is regular infantry with a commander more focused on boxing than war. Since Prew refuses to fight, conflict is inevitable. And, with the help of his second-in-command, Captain Dana E. 'Dynamite' Holmes is determined to teach Prew the error of his ways.

What follows is a portrait of military life on Hawaii in the months leading up to Pearl Harbor, and the shocked and shocking days that came after. A portrait of men just trying to survive the politics, the discrimination, and the brutality of the few who held power over the many. Written by a man who lived it.

*****

I have never read the 1951 version of this novel and it's been many, many years since I saw the 1953 movie. Therefore, when I chose to read the restored edition, I had a vague Army-on-Hawaii-before-Pearl expectation of the book's content. Which is a bit like saying Moby Dick  is about a guy and a big fish.

What grabbed me, and stays with me as I write this, is the language. Not the F-bombs and C-word, expunged in the 50s and common today, but the way that language was used sixty years ago. Language molded in the mind of a remarkable writer.

(A brilliant example can be found - here - at the James Jones Literary Society  site.)

It would take days, and skills I simply lack, to describe even a portion of this work. There are people and places that you can see, and hear, and smell, and feel. The voices and lives of Schofield Barracks will live with you long after you close your e-reader.

Why not carve out a couple of weeks, pick up the ebook, and lose yourself?

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received a complimentary electronic galley of this book from the publisher through NetGalley.com <http://www.netgalley.com/> professional readers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.

In this, the third book in the series, Patrick and Beth go into the past to find the golden tablet. Carrying gifts from Mr. Whittaker, they barely land in China and are kidnapped by Mongol warriors. At the Mongol camp, they meet Marco Polo and are taken to the palace of Kublai Khan.

Where things only get worse: the Khan doesn't like their gifts or their message of Christianity, Beth challenges the priests' magic, and war breaks out. Kublai Khan locks up the cousins, so they won't escape. Marco Polo leaves.

What are Beth and Patrick to do? How will they find the golden tablet? What will happen to Albert?

*****

This well-written little book is a trip to China in 1621, as seen through the eyes of two 8-year-old children. Evenly paced and beautifully illustrated, it is a fascinating story. The Christian message is presented, but it doesn't overwhelm the short history lesson.

A lesson that readers, caught up in the adventure, won't realize they've been taught.

Recommended for Ages 7 and up
Fleisch-Kincaid Grade Level: 2.1

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher through the Tyndale Blog Network <http://mediacenter.tyndale.com/> book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.

After traveling ten days through the desert, Cassia and Alexander arrive in Petra, only to be attacked and robbed. Forced to rely on the help of strangers, Cassia seeks Aretas' family and finds that they are the rulers of this city in stone. Her dreams of a happy life are soon dashed, however, when the new queen, Hagiru, takes Alexander and has Cassia thrown from the palace.

Seeking only a peaceful life as a stone carver, Julian is approached by Malik, the leader of Petra's church, who speaks of "the Jew's Messiah" and the future. He resists the message. But when he finds Cassia, battered and bruised on the palace steps, Julian takes her to Malik and becomes entwined in her mission to free her son, as well as the fledgling Christian church in Petra.

*****

I chose this book because of a personal fascination with Petra. I was not disappointed. The descriptions of the city are so incredible, one would expect the author had time-traveled from the ancient Nabataean capital to tell this story. A story that feels old and ... real.

While I might not have picked this title, had I known the underlying theme, a well-written book is still a well-written book. I can easily recommend it to anyone interested in the city or the time period. Or the beginnings of Christianity.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received a complimentary electronic galley of this book from the publisher through NetGalley.com <http://www.netgalley.com/> professional readers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.

It is January 6, 1965.

Agnes Lampion is in her Bright Beach, California kitchen: in labor and baking pies. Her husband, Joey, is frantic to get her to the hospital. But pies must be baked, and Maria has arrived for her English lesson. By the end of the day, Barty would be born and Joey would be dead.

In the wilds of Oregon, Junior Cain and his wife, Naomi, are hiking along an unpaved fire road. They reach the fire tower in time for lunch. Fifteen stories above the top of the ridge, they shared cheese sandwiches, dried apricots, and the incredible view. By the end of the day, Junior would be hospitalized and Naomi would be dead.

At St. Mary's Hospital in San Francisco, Seraphim White is a very pregnant and very sick teenager. With extreme hypertension and pre-eclampsia, she is undergoing a battery of tests and treatments while her sister, Celestina, waits and worries. By the end of the day, Angel would be born and Phimie would be dead.

What follows is the story of how the lives of two unique children, two single mothers, one dedicated cop, and a homicidal maniac are inescapably bound together. The story of a young boy with amazing abilities; of a murderer hunting the child he believes is his mortal enemy and who is, in turn, hunted by the priest-turned-cop determined to end the evil.

It is filled with signs, symbolism, and omens good and bad. By adding quantum theory, the idea of an almost molecular connectedness in the nature of human relationships, Koontz steps beyond the ordinary. And takes his readers with him.

I wasn't certain what to expect from a book that promises to give sight to a boy with no eyes. (This book was loaned to me by a friend, who hadn't read it yet.) It was an interesting ride. But, at over 600 pages, it wasn't a short one.

As far as the characters go, most of the 'good guys' were well-developed. But there are a lot of people in this book and many are given short shrift. The focus is on Barty and his family, and Junior - very nearly polar opposites in every way imaginable - and it shows.

Still, this is an engrossing novel. My only complaint would be that, after living with these characters for seventy-nine chapters and almost four years, the final 50 pages resolve all of their issues and fly them through the next 30+ years.

Oh, the recovering-sight-with-no-eyes thing? You'll love that one. I promise.

Eight births - all at 2100 on 21 December 2012 and all bearing a birthmark on the right calf - signal the Time of Becoming. One of those children, according to prophecy, has the potential to end the world as we know it. Putting the destiny of the world in the hands of a chosen defender, should Matthew Samael Serafino grow to power.

Jump thirty-six years, to 2048. The Earth is in trouble, after years of man's inhumanity to the planet. Technology has advanced; religion has gone underground. And Paul Binder, a cultural history professor born at the same time as the Eight, receives a mysterious letter, sending him on a quest to find the 2nd-century Diatessaron manuscript and "unlock the future of your world."

What follows is a journey, filled with prophesies and strange events, reaching from one possible future back into ancient traditions and forward again. Travel with Paul and the Eight from the United States to England; to Egypt, the Sahara, Israel, Syria, Italy, France, and the Cave of St. Anne on Patmos - where it is believed John wrote "Revelation." Share Paul's struggle to find and decipher hidden clues, and realize his destiny.

In the end, there is only one possible answer.

I am not a student of "Revelation" or ancient and/or religious symbols and texts. It is, however, with a little thought, not difficult to examine the world around us and imagine where we might be heading. The possibilities in this book are unnerving, a little frightening, and not inconceivable.

If you believe that we are heading "to hell in a handbasket," you should read this book. The 'Alphabet of the Apocalypse' in Part V will make you think; will make you question. It will make you search for answers, before it's too late.

If you don't believe our world is in trouble, you must  read this book. For the very same reasons.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher through the BookSneeze®.com <http://BookSneeze®.com> book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.

How do you get the same sensation, the same joy from changing screens? And, as I'm not (currently) planning to buy an ereader, how do you curl up in bed with a laptop? Or drag it from room to room, when you just can't tear yourself away from the action on the page?

No, my preference will always (ooh, shouldn't say 'always') be a book in my hands. And yet … curiosity is such that I'll, undoubtedly, download software and creep, grudgingly, into the 21st century. Maybe I'd even manage to save a tree or two along the way.

In the meantime, can someone please explain to me why ebooks are more expensive than their print equivalents? Or even the same price? There are no physical materials, printing costs, packaging and shipping costs involved in an ebook.

It just doesn't make any sense to me at all.

And, being a frugal sort, would really rather not have to buy one.

Frankly, I don't need another device. The laptop works just fine for most everything I do. (If it would just mop floors and clean toilets, I'd be in heaven.) So, it seems that getting software for the PC makes the most sense. Especially if I can find a free, reliable download.

Does anyone know anything about the free software, like Microsoft Reader or Mobipocket Reader that's out there? Do you use an eReader and, if so, which one? More importantly, what have you tried that didn't work?

Feel free to fill up the comments with your knowledge, wisdom, advice, and recommendations. I can use all the help I can get.

Organized into sections: Hope, Hurt, Help, Him/Her, Home, Haves/Have-Nots, and Hereafter; they touch on all facets of life. Why am I here? Why me? Any chance for a second chance? Some answers offer reassurance; some offer hope. Many speak to what may well be unique to a life in Christ; to a life of believing.

Occasionally, one opens a book and the words reach out to touch the mind, the heart, and the soul. Naturally, there is a personal perspective to each response; an individual interpretation of God's words, based on beliefs, life experiences, and religious background. Not all readers will share those beliefs, experiences, or background.

This is where I have a problem with books that attempt to present God's plan for the world. However, that doesn't mean that many struggling with their faith or life's difficult choices and situations won't find exactly what they need in these pages.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher through the BookSneeze®.com <http://BookSneeze®.com> book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.

In 18th Century Germany, communities were built, literally and spiritually, around their churches. It is, therefore, not surprising that Bach began his career as a church organist. Or that he was dedicated to creating music for his church.

Married twice and the father of twenty, with scores of musical relatives and students in and out of his home, it seems that Bach still managed to lead a quiet, uncomplicated life.

It is that life, of music and faith, that is the focus of this little volume. Thousands of pieces, from motets to full masses to Passions, evincing a musical talent not seen before or since. A faith that started every composition asking for Jesus' help and ended by offering the glory only unto his God.

Frankly, I put this book down more than once. While I understand the need for historical perspective, it took several attempts to get through the first few pages. And, although my German is a bit rusty, some of the translations seemed off.

It's been a long time since this lapsed-Lutheran thought about the liturgy, hymns, and Sunday services. To be reminded that, more than 200 years after his death, I stood in a small Colorado church and sang Bach's music is ...

Well, perhaps it's the reason I chose this book.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher through the BookSneeze®.com <http://BookSneeze®.com> book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.

When Gabriel appears in David's penthouse, he believes that his time has come; that he is about to be reunited with his beloved wife. Nothing could be further from the truth.

The archangel explains that mankind is running out of time. A final summit is being convened to determine if humanity will have a future. And David Ponder is to lead that summit.

What follows is an exploration of what humanity needs to do, "individually and collectively," to put itself back on the path to a "successful civilization". It is a fascinating question and the answers, it appears, are myriad. Will David, and his Traveler helpers, find the two words that will save mankind before the sand in the hourglass runs out?

Frankly, I was hooked before I finished the prologue and have, in less than two weeks, read the book twice. As a cleverly crafted piece of fiction, it is an entertaining and easy read. I felt as though I, like David Ponder, was traveling through history and meeting some of its most fascinating characters.

There is more, obviously, to this story than a waltz through history. The book asks some serious questions and seeks to provide some serious answers. Whether it succeeds or not, is up to each reader.

For me? I'll be reading it again. And again.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher through the BookSneeze®.com <http://BookSneeze®.com> book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.

Blood Brothers  "Sign of Seven Trilogy" by Nora Roberts

Every seven years, in the seventh month, for seven days madness takes over the peaceful town of Hawkins Hollow.

It starts with Caleb, Fox, and Gabe - born on the same day and close as brothers - sneaking off to celebrate their 10th birthdays by camping out at the Pagan Stone. When they make it out of the forest the next morning, each has perfect health and the gift of Sight. And a powerful evil, held captive for centuries, has been set free.

The first book fills in the last twenty-one years and tells the story of Cal, who can see the past, and Quinn, the writer who has come to investigate the strange happenings. What follows is just a whole lot of intense, scary ... fun.

I have gotta get those other 2 books! Cuz even though the genre (romantic suspense) virtually demands a happy ending, the stuff that happens between now and the end is just too good to miss.

Born in Fire  "Born In Trilogy" by Nora Roberts

This is one of the Ireland trilogies; she's done more than one. Nothing supernatural, mystical, or magical. Just three really good stories about three very different women - the daughters of Tom Concannon, a dreamer with an angry bitter wife.

The first book is about the oldest: Maggie Concannon, a West County glass-artist (I guess that's the term) whose work catches the eye of Dublin gallery-owner Rogan Sweeney. It follows Maggie's rise from obscurity, her battles with her mother, and her romance with Rogan. (This is a romance novel, so that isn't actually giving anything away.)

All I can say is, thanks to this book, every thought I had for days came with the lovely lilt of a West County brogue. Now I just have to get my hands on the rest of the books and I may never speak 'American' again.

The Last Enchantment  "Merlin Trilogy" by Mary Stewart

Worse than having only the first book in a series, is having only the third. Or the middle of five. This book is both.

As with The Crystal Cave and The Hollow Hills, the tale is narrated by Merlin and imagines his life from the crowning of Arthur as High King of Britain. Although admittedly drawn from a questionable historical source, the author creates a fascinating story of peace coming to a land and magick going from a man.

It tells of Arthur's legendary uniting of Britain, the equally well-known treachery of Morgan and Morgause, and puts a much kinder spin on Merlin's relationship with Niniane/Nimuë than most versions. The book stands well on its own, with enough references to what came before that one doesn't need to have read the first two books to understand the story.

Nonetheless, the absolute best way to experience the life of Merlin is in order - from start to finish. Throwing in  The Wicked Day for the story of Mordred is a fine finish to the legend.

Apparently, I'm going to be doing a lot of book-shopping for the foreseeable future. Especially, when one takes into account that:

• I have only read the first book, Ritual Bath, in the Peter Decker/Rina Lazarus series by Faye Kellerman - out of about 19, as of 2010.
• I have only read one Inspector Lynley novel, Careless in Red, by Elizabeth George - out of about 17, so far.
• I have only read two Alex Delaware novels, Bad Love  and The Clinic, by Jonathan Kellerman - out of 26, and counting.
• I am already 4 books behind on the Virgil Flowers series by John Sandford, having only read Heat Lightning, the second book from 2008.

The story begins with the chaos surrounding the arrival of the Carpathia at Pier 54 in New York; the only ship to bring back survivors. What follows are the detailed histories of eight men who, had they lived, might never have been famous.

We learn about birthplaces and childhoods, homes and schools, families and fiancées; the choices that led each man to Southampton and an ill-fated cruise. The two brothers who booked the band, the villains of the piece (some would say), are included. As is what came after.

Amid memorials and monument-building, parents were dunned for unpaid alteration bills. One musician was labeled a deserter for failing to answer the call to fight in WWI - two years after his death.

Winding through all of their stories is the influence of the era in which they lived. A time much different from our own.

*****

I chose this book for the very simple reason that I knew little about the Titanic and nothing about her musicians. Filled with quotes, newspaper reports, and pictures, there is certainly no shortage of information. And being a nosy sort, I found the stories fascinating.

However, the errors were off-putting: August, instead of April in some dates; transposing names in a story about one musician's sisters. In an effort, I presume, to avoid sensationalizing a sensational situation, the presentation is often dry and choppy; cramming so much information into so few pages.

Still, I found the book enjoyable. I recommend finding a quiet spot with no distractions. It will require your full attention.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher through the BookSneeze®.com <http://BookSneeze®.com> book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.

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Over time, the offerings started to expand. The number of imprints grew, as well. Today, they include: Carina Press (Suspense, SciFi, Fantasy, & Paranormal Romance), Kimani Press (African-American Intrigue, Romance, Passion, and Suspense), LUNA (Fantasy), MIRA (Suspense, Contemporary, and Relationship novels) and Steeple Hill Women's Fiction (Inspirational Romance).

Some of my old favorites are gone, which is a little sad. But there are so many new areas to explore, I doubt I'll have time to miss them. And being able to find SciFi, Paranormal, and Fantasy romances is pretty exciting.

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Back in the old days, you had to go to the store for your romance fix. Though, if memory serves, Harlequin (and Silhouette) did offer a subscription program where you could sign up to get the latest releases monthly by mail. It was, sometimes, a crapshoot; not all authors are created equal.

In 2011, life's a whole lot simpler. Can't sleep? Need something to read? No problem - download your favorite author to your favorite reader, from the comfort of your bed, without getting out of your PJs.

And, since I'm pretty much out of space, these eBooks may be just what I need.

Just learning to trust in God, to give over her life to His wisdom, Gabby is thrown into emotional turmoil. The father of her children is in trouble, serious trouble. But the pain of her husband's betrayal threatens to harden her heart and close her mind to God's message.

Is this Gabby's chance to rebuild the family she once treasured? Or is God leading her toward something new? And how will she know?

This is the fourth book in the Yada Yada House of Hope series. Which I didn't realize when I offered to read and review it. But, the basic premise intrigued me and I was curious to see how the situation would be resolved.

Unfortunately, it was a difficult book for me to get into. The first-person narration felt awkward and the writing was rather simplistic. Perhaps because I haven't read the first three books, I found the characters one-dimensional and lacking individuality.

Nonetheless, I did respect Gabby's journey and found myself smiling at the end.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher through the BookSneeze®.com <http://BookSneeze®.com> book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.

That's why I was really excited to discover BookSneeze®. I didn't know there was a place where, in exchange for an honest review, I could get free books. How fun is that?

Naturally, my first thought was Free books! It wasn't until I was choosing my first book that I realized there was a secondary benefit: stepping outside my usual genres.

Lately, I've been reading what I've got around the house. (Never quite seems to be enough for a new book.) Which means a lot of Nora Roberts and J. D. Robb. Nothing wrong with that, just due for a change.

It'll be nice to broaden my horizons. Heaven knows, I'm going to read and read and read anyway.

A young woman went to her mother and told her about her life and how things were so hard for her. She did not know how she was going to make it and wanted to give up She was tired of fighting and struggling. It seemed as one problem was solved, a new one arose.

Her mother took her to the kitchen. She filled three pots with water and placed each on a high fire.. Soon the pots came to boil. In the first she placed carrots, in the second she placed eggs, and in the last she placed ground coffee beans. She let them sit and boil; without saying a word.

In about twenty minutes she turned off the burners. She fished the carrots out and placed them in a bowl. She pulled the eggs out and placed them in a bowl. Then she ladled the coffee out and placed it in a bowl.

Turning to her daughter, she asked, "Tell me what you see."

"Carrots, eggs, and coffee," the young woman replied.

Her mother brought her closer and asked her to feel the carrots. She did and noted that they were soft. The mother then asked the daughter to take an egg and break it. After pulling off the shell, she observed the hard-boiled egg.

Finally, the mother asked the daughter to sip the coffee. The daughter smiled, as she tasted its rich aroma. She then asked, "What does it mean, mother?"

Her mother explained that each of these objects had faced the same adversity: boiling water. Each reacted differently.

• The carrot went in strong, hard, and unrelenting. However, after being subjected to the boiling water, it softened and became weak.
• The egg had been fragile. Its thin outer shell had protected its liquid interior, but after sitting through the boiling water, its insides became hardened.
• The ground coffee beans were unique, however. After they were in the boiling water, they had changed the water.

"Which are you?" she asked her daughter. "When adversity knocks on your door, how do you respond? Are you a carrot, an egg or a coffee bean?

Think of this: Which am I? Am I the carrot that seems strong, but with pain and adversity do I wilt and become soft and lose my strength?

Am I the egg that starts with a malleable heart, but changes with the heat? Did I have a fluid spirit, but after a death, a breakup, a financial hardship or some other trial, have I become hardened and stiff? Does my shell look the same, but on the inside am I bitter and tough with a stiff spirit and hardened heart?

Or am I like the coffee bean? The bean actually changes the hot water, the very circumstance that brings the pain. When the water gets hot, it releases the fragrance and flavor. If you are like the bean, when things are at their worst, you get better and change the situation around you.

When the hour is the darkest and trials are their greatest, do you elevate yourself to another level? How do you handle adversity? Are you a carrot, an egg or a coffee bean?