Book Review « Kelly's Lucky You

Book and Fragrance Giveaway! Blog Tour of “The Book of Lost Fragrances” by M.J. Rose (US, Ends 4/14)

By Kelly, on March 30th, 2012%

THE BOOK OF LOST FRAGRANCES is a sweeping, suspenseful tale of secrets, intrigue, and lovers separated by time, connected through the mystical qualities of an ancient Egyptian perfume–and lost for 2,000 years. Follow Jac L’Etoile–heiress to a storied French perfume company–as she confronts her family’s haunting past to find her missing brother…getting more than she bargains for in the process.

Jac L’Etoile has always been haunted by the past, her memories infused with the exotic scents that she grew up surrounded by as the heir to a storied French perfume company. In order to flee the pain of those remembrances–and of her mother’s suicide–she moved to America.

Now, fourteen years later she and her brother have inherited the company along with its financial problems. But when Robbie hints at an earth-shattering discovery in the family archives and then suddenly goes missing–leaving a dead body in his wake–Jac is plunged into a world she thought she’d left behind.

Back in Paris to investigate her brother’s disappearance, Jac becomes haunted by the legend the House of L’Etoile has been espousing since 1799. Is there a scent that can unlock the mystery of reincarnation – or is it just another dream-infused perfume?

An Excerpt from The Book of Lost Fragrances

There was a loud crash as Napoléon fell onto the wooden coffin, smashing and splintering its cover. The perfumer had heard the rumors that the general suffered from epilepsy, the same nervous disorder that had affected his hero, Julius Caesar. Now froth bubbled from the general’s mouth, and he shook with convulsions.

His aide-de-camp rushed to his side and bent over him.

Had the strange perfume brought on this episode? It had certainly affected L’Etoile. The dizziness and disorientation he’d been experiencing since he’d entered this tomb were only now starting to dissipate.

“This place is cursed!” Abu yelled out as he threw the papyrus scroll back inside the coffin and on top of the desiccated bodies.

About the Author

M.J. Rose is the international bestselling author of eleven novels: Lip Service, In Fidelity, Flesh Tones, Sheet Music, Lying In Bed, The Halo Effect, The Delilah Complex, The Venus Fix, The Reincarnationist, The Memorist, and The Hypnotist. Rose is also the co-author with Angela Adair Hoy of How To Publish And Promote Online, and with Doug Clegg on Buzz Your Book.

Rose is a founding member and board member of International Thriller Writers and the founder of the first marketing company for authors: AuthorBuzz.com. As well as the co-founder of Peroozal.com and the popular website BookTrib.com.

Rose has been profiled in Time magazine, Forbes, The New York Times, Business 2.0, Working Woman, Newsweek and New York Magazine. Rose has appeared on “The Today Show,” Fox News, “The Jim Lehrer News Hour” and features on her have appeared in dozens of magazines and newspapers in the U.S. and abroad, including USA Today, Stern, L’Official, Poets and Writers and Publishers Weekly.

M.J. Rose lives in Connecticut with Doug Scofield, a composer, and their very spoiled dog, Winka. To learn more about M.J. Rose and her work, visit her website at: www.mjrose.com.

My Take

Our family was away for spring break and on the third day, I found some time to pick up The Book of Lost Fragrances. I couldn’t put it down! Mommy, do you want to go out to the playground? Hmm, I’m reading this good book… Mommy, we’re going to get ice cream, do you want to come? Hmm, I’m reading this good book… Luckily, I read very fast or I would have missed a lot of vacation *smile*. Because I do read pretty quickly, I like to buzz through a book and get frustrated if there are too many flashbacks. The multiple storylines in The Book of Lost Fragrances did slow me down a bit, but M.J. Rose did an excellent job of differentiating the ancient Egypt from the 1800′s and again from the present.

Do you like stories that have many, seemingly unrelated pieces that come together at the end? Author, M.J. Rose, was a master weaver creating a beautiful story in The Book of Lost Fragrances. Like the perfumers she wrote about, she layered story-lines like fragrant notes masterfully creating a unique and beautiful scent.

There is a real fragrance that was inspired by the story! Called Ames Soeurs, which means “Soul Mates”, the main notes include orange blossom, lotus, rose, jasmine, frankincense, myrrh. You can enter to win my gently read copy of the book and a sample of the fragrance in the rafflecopter form below.

What Others Say

“Amazing… utterly engrossing. Elegantly written, with unforgettable characters. Will keep you up all night-and leave you with powerful feelings of revelation, wonder, and the infinitude of human possibility.” - New York Times bestselling author,Douglas Preston

A simmering brew that mingles the erotic sensuality of Patrick Suskind’s “Perfume” with the dark and timeless obsessions of Rider Haggard’s classic, “She.” -New York Times bestselling author, Katherine Neville

Continue reading Book and Fragrance Giveaway! Blog Tour of “The Book of Lost Fragrances” by M.J. Rose (US, Ends 4/14)

Book Giveaway and Review: “What’s Wrong With Me?” by Daree Allen Ends 2/18

By Kelly, on February 2nd, 2012%

“What’s Wrong With Me?” is a collection of memories, lessons, advice, experiences and quotations written by speaker and author, Daree Allen. It’s directed to teenage girls with the intent of helping them through the difficult time of questions and discovering who they are and what they want to make of their lives. This YA nonfiction book will be released on Valentine’s Day. The author describes it as, “an empowering Christian self-help book for older teen girls”.

The topics Daree discusses can be pretty much summed up as “Life”. They include:

Identity
Family
Friendship
Positive Thinking
Physical Appearance
Eating
Men
Sex
Marriage
Motherhood
Money
God

About the Author

Daree Allen, MS is an award-winning speaker and author. This entrepreneur is an experienced workshop presenter/facilitator for youth and adults spiritual discipleship classes. Daree has presented business and professional development topics at organizational chapter meetings, workshops, conferences, schools, and universities across the country for such organizations as The Society for Technical Communication (STC), the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM) at Strayer University, and the University of Houston’s BLACKE Student Summit. She has also been a mentor and facilitator, conducting divorce recovery workshops, and a Toastmasters Youth Leadership program at a local middle school.

My Take

Yes, whew! There is a lot packed into this book. Despite the quantity of information, Daree’s style makes it an easy read. Because she combines her personal journal entries from the past, quotations from famous people, and straightforward advice, the book is also entertaining and interesting. It’s also structured in an easy-to-read style with highlighted passages, paragraph headings, lists and charts.

Favorite things I read in the book:

Confrontations are best done one on one. Don’t be defensive, just be honest. Your reaction to drama and mean girls is fuel for their actions. Comparing yourself to others is normal but have a healthy evaluation of your own appearance.
You have no control over how you’re raised or who your family is. The influence of parents is undeniably strong and shapes us, but you are not your parents. You should respect but not necessarily agree.
The average person has about 60,000 thoughts per day. According to scientists, roughly 45,000 of those thoughts tend to be negative. Fight those odds by surrounding yourself with positive people, books, media and eliminated toxic influences.

What Others Say

“Daree Allen is a shining example of what happens when a woman learns to love herself and steps into her own power and confidence. Daree’s book shares her personal journey with humor and inspiration. Girls can find their own path to personal growth by applying Daree’s lessons to their lives.” ~ Diane L. Paxson, author

Where to Win

Here, of course! Enter in the Rafflecopter form below to win my gently read copy.

Continue reading Book Giveaway and Review: “What’s Wrong With Me?” by Daree Allen Ends 2/18

Book Review and Giveaway: American Sniper by Chris Kyle – Two Winners! (Ends 2/25, US)

By Kelly, on February 2nd, 2012%

About the Story

Chris Kyle is the deadliest American sniper ever, called “The Devil” by the enemies he hunted and “The Legend” by his Navy SEAL brothers.

During the ten years of his active military career, Chris Kyle reported the most sniper kills in US Military history. This book is his autobiography, primarily focusing on the time he served in Iraq. It gives an interesting account of his training and what goes into being a military sniper.

Without releasing confidential information, Chris still goes into significant detail about many of his missions and battles. It’s an eyewitness account of war and the military life. Kyle talks honestly about his experiences, both good and bad. What it takes to be a Navy SEAL and effective soldier.

About the Author

Kyle grew up in Texas and learned to shoot on hunting trips with his father. He spent time in college and cattle ranching before joining the military where he found his true calling in the roll of military sniper. Serving four combat tours in Operation Iraqi Freedom and elsewhere, he was awarded two Silver Stars, five Bronze Stars with Valor, two Navy and Marine Corp Achievement Medals, and one Navy and Marine Corp Commendation.

Following his combat deployments, Kyle became chief instructor for training Naval Special Warfare Sniper and Counter-Sniper teams.

Today Chris Kyle is back in Texas and president of the training and security firm, Craft International.

My Take

As you can imagine, this book is more than a bit “outside the box” of my usual reading. I’m mostly a fan of fiction and the non-fiction I read is usually spiritual or self-help. I’m not sure why I picked up this one to read, but I’m glad I did.

War is a topic that brings out deep issues and feelings for all of us. The military, and especially Navy Seals, is unfamiliar territory for most of us. Chris Kyle gave me a glimpse, an honest glimpse, into his world. When I was reading the book, I felt as if I’d been stranded at a snowed-in airport somewhere with this man and he’d felt comfortable enough to share the story of his life with me. Although not about marriage, family, or military wives, the sections written by Chris’s wife add fascinating perspectives and gave me an honest glimpse into her life as well.

If you or someone you know is interested in the Iraq war, the military or snipers, I recommend this book. It’s written in an easy-to-read style and holds your attention throughout the book. Although not about marriage, family, or military wives, the sections written by Chris’s wife add fascinating perspectives and gave me an honest glimpse into her life as well.

Surprising things I read in the book:

the snipers always had a witness to their kills and could be tried for murder, if there was not justification for every action
Taya Kyle wrote that she woke up one morning to find Chris had her in a dangerous hold and she had to wake him up slowly so he would realize he was at home and she was his wife
the armed forces work together and each group ie Rangers, SEALS have special expertise
Although the SEALS are in the Navy, they often work on land-based operations
In general, SEALS are physically fit and in extremely top condition, but it is truly “heart” and mental stamina that set a SEAL apart from other soldiers

For More Information

Browse the book

American Sniper Facebook page

Where to Buy

Amazon.com

Indie Bound

Where to Win

Here, of course! Two lucky KLY readers are going to win their own copy. Enter in the Rafflecopter form below.

Continue reading Book Review and Giveaway: American Sniper by Chris Kyle – Two Winners! (Ends 2/25, US)

Kregel Blog Tour Book Review: The Three Trees, A Traditional Folktale by Elena Pasquali

By Kelly, on November 7th, 2011%

Perhaps you’ve heard the old story of the three trees. I had read it before, but I had forgotten it. Looking forward to sharing this book, The Three Trees, with Rosie at Christmas, I realized that the story has messages that relate to any age. If you haven’t heard the story before, or like me had . . . → Read More: Kregel Blog Tour Book Review: The Three Trees, A Traditional Folktale by Elena Pasquali

Book Tour: A Dime A Dozen by Mindy Starns Clark

By Kelly, on October 20th, 2011%

It is time for a FIRST Wild Card Tour book review! If you wish to join the FIRST blog alliance, just click the button. We are a group of reviewers who tour Christian books. A Wild Card post includes a brief bio of the author and a full chapter from each book toured. The reason it . . . → Read More: Book Tour: A Dime A Dozen by Mindy Starns Clark

Book Review: Autumn Song by Martha Rogers

By Kelly, on October 12th, 2011%

Book Review and Giveaway: Hometown Girl by NY Times Best Selling Author, Mariah Stewart – US and Canada

By Kelly, on October 10th, 2011%

About the Story

Brooke Madison Bowers has found her soul mate, married, had a child, and lost that soul-mate. Her husband and best friend was killed while serving in Iraq. ”You get one soul mate and I had mine.” She has no intention of having another relationship and risking the heartache of loss again. She’s moved back home, living on the family farm with her mother and brother. Going back to school and starting a bakery business is as far as she will go to “start living again.” Surrounded by her supportive family and friends, she’s determined to build a new life, and she’s equally determined never to fall in love again.

Jesse Enright is a fourth generation attorney who relocates to Brooke’s hometown, partly to repair the damage his errant father has done. When Brooke decides to update her will, she turns to Jesse. Jesse is very attracted to Brooke, but knows she’s not ready to seriously date and he thinks she’s worth waiting for. What will happen?

About the Author

Mariah Stewart knows romance! She has written twenty-nine novels of contemporary romance and romantic suspense as a New York Times bestselling author. Living with her husband and their dogs amid the rolling hills and Amish farms of southern Chester County, Pa, she gardens, reads and enjoys country life.

Hometown Girl is book four in a series, but you can read it as a stand-alone.

My Take

I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book. It was a hard-to-put-down romance with a sense of fun and warmth. I love reading about small towns and family life. Main characters who have experience pain and yet still appreciate the world around them and have a hopeful attitude. Mariah Stewart is an artist – painting a picture with her words. She lets you “see” the story from her extensive and capable descriptions. Characters that you feel as if you know and can picture in your mind. Characters who have flaws – just like real people do.

Connect to Mariah Here

Connect with Mariah on her website,www.mariahstewart.com, and on Facebook.

Where to Buy

Amazon.com

Where to Win

Here, of course! One lucky KLY reader is going to win their own copy of “Hometown Girl” – you’ll love it! Enter in the Rafflecopter form below.

Continue reading Book Review and Giveaway: Hometown Girl by NY Times Best Selling Author, Mariah Stewart – US and Canada

5 Things Guys Don’t Want You To Do On A First Date and more from What Is He Thinking? by Rebecca St. James (and A Giveaway!)

By Kelly, on October 6th, 2011%

What NOT to do on a first date:

1. Don’t talk too much about yourself. Listen and ask questions to find out about the guy.

2. Don’t talk about your ex-es… or his. Spouses or friends! Don’t feel like you have to “fill-in-the-blanks”, a few moments of silence here and there are nice.

3. Don’t push the “God-talk”. Hopefully you share the same faith, but let discussion of your faith happen organically, don’t force it.

4. Don’t be too serious. Have a sense of humor and flexibility to be spontaneous.

5. Don’t act stupid because you think it’s cute. Be yourself.

The book, What is He Thinking??, has the descriptive subtitle, “What Guys Want Us to Know About Dating, Love, and Marriage”. The author, Rebecca St. James, interviewed single and married guys asking them many of the questions women wished they could ask! She compiled everything into an easy-to-read anecdotal book. Focusing on men aged twenty-something to mid-thirties, she let them speak openly and candidly about things they like, and things they hate in relationships with women.

About The Author

The career of Rebecca St. James gives new meaning to “on the wing of a prayer”. When Rebecca was only 12 years old, living in her home land of Australia, she prayed a simple prayer, saying, “God, I give you my gifts. Use my life to make a difference and change the world.”

And that prayer is a description of exactly what has happened. Rebecca has used her voice and her writing abilities to reach millions. She has sold millions of album units and authored eight books. Her live performances have played to thousands of fans. Also through her concerts she has globally helped find sponsorship for more than 30,000 of the world’s neediest children, as a spokesperson for Compassion International.

In April, I reviewed her CD, I Will Praise You and now I’m pleased to be able to review her book.

What Others Are Saying

“With wisdom, humor, and insight, Rebecca St. James and her numerous interviewees offer young women a fascinating window into the mind of the modern male. Don’t worry, ladies, we’re not as scary as you think.” ~ Jim Daley, President, Focus on the Family

“With humor, honesty, and genuine curiosity, Rebecca writes about dating and her experiences interviewing single men. A must read for every girl who is wondering where all the good guys have gone.” ~ Sean Hannity, talk show host

Connect to Rebecca Here

Facebook (Author): http://www.facebook.com/RSJames
Facebook (Book): http://www.facebook.com/whatishethinkingRSJ
Twitter: http://twitter.com/rebeccastjames
Website: http://rsjames.com/
YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/rsjchannel
HBG website book detail page: http://goo.gl/RTy0O
OpenBook Link: http://goo.gl/BWgEs (preview the first 10% of the book)

Rebecca is going to give one lucky KLY reader their own copy of, “What Is He Thinking??” Enter in the Rafflecopter form below.

Continue reading 5 Things Guys Don’t Want You To Do On A First Date and more from What Is He Thinking? by Rebecca St. James (and A Giveaway!)

Book Review and Giveaway: Song of the Nile by @StephanieHDray – US AND Canada!

By Kelly, on October 3rd, 2011%

ABOUT THE BOOK:

This is the second novel in a trilogy about Cleopatra’s daughter Selene. The book begins with the wedding of Selene. She’s being given in marriage by Augustus, the man who has caused the death of many members of her family and held her hostage in Rome instead of her living as royalty in Egypt. She is marrying Juba, who she has mixed feelings about. She is attracted but Juba has unfailing loyalty to Augustus. Selene rebels, she fights, she shows her royalty and strength. It is fascinating to read about this regal and amazing character that is somewhat based on history, but created by the author, Stephanie Dray.

Selene and Juba are named rulers of a distant and barbarous foreign land. They travel and begin the hard work of building a new nation. Selene struggles and succeeds to become a leader in her own right – a Queen.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Stephanie Dray is a lawyer, a game designer, a teacher and now an author. She has always been fascinated by all things Roman or Egyptian and has collected ancient artifacts and, as it says on her website, a house full of cats! This is to the consternation of her husband, none the less devoted to her.

In her education, Stephanie concentrated in Middle Eastern studies, exploring the ancient worlds of Egypt and Rome. She gained a deep and rare understanding of not only the ancient and current tensions between East and West but also the worldwide decline of female-oriented religion.

Stephanie Dray, is also the founder of the Cleopatra Literary Contest, a competition is aimed at discovering and mentoring aspiring young female writers (age 13 to 22). In particular, the award seeks to foster new voices with an appreciation for women’s history. It’s open to women around the world, giving them an opportunity to have their work read by authors and professionals in the publishing world. For more information, go to CleopatraContest.com or click here for a downloadable brochure.

MY TAKE ON THE BOOK:

I loved the first book in the trilogy, Lady of the Nile but this one is even better! I’m only halfway through, Juba and Selene have just arrived in Mauretania and begun their reign. There has already been enough excitement and storyline for an entire book – I can’t wait to read more!

It is spell-binding to read about Selene. She has the mystery of Cleopatra but she is so young that it is exciting to see her learn and hone her skills. As she develops her beauty, she learns to use it as power. As she learns more, many times teaching herself, she becomes a force to be reckoned with as a strategist.

It was an unusual time for the relationship between men and women. I enjoyed reading about the power, yet constricted freedoms, of women in that time. Selene is a Queen but is, at the same time, restricted by the morals and attitudes of the time.

I found Song of the Nile to be an easier, faster read than the first book, Lily of the Nile. It’s partly because I was already accustomed to the names and characters in the book, but I think the author also wove in more descriptive, personal drama and a bit less dense historical fact. You don’t need to read the first book in order to enjoy Song of the Nile. I’m going back to reading – I can’t wait to finish this one and to see what book three has in store!

WHAT OTHERS ARE SAYING:

“Graceful history infused with subtle magic and veiled ancient mysteries, at a time of immense flux and transition… a true achievement.” ~ Diane L. Paxson, author

“The story keeps you turning pages until the end.” ~ Diana L. Paxson, author of Marion Zimmer Bradley’s Sword of Avalon