Dearest Dreams

Yummy ribs and your last chance to win over $200 worth of books

noreply@blogger.com (Christy) — Fri, 18 May 2012 14:32:00 +0000

"Love books? Like cooking? Then you're like me and have been itching for a peak inside The 2012 Book Blogger's Cookbook. Well I have a treat for you. Straight from the 2012 edition, I bring you an easy chicken recipe (called the Perfect Ten Dauntless Chicken Skewers) that is perfect for summer. Enjoy! We sure did. Mr. Whimsy and I will definitely be making this recipe again." ~Juju Tales of Whimsy

Today is the last day of The 2012 Book Blogger's Cookbook tour! There are some seriously fun and funny things going on on the tour today. Check out the image that Juju created after sampling the chicken skewers (above). And find out why Christine Bryant thinks the Octavian Ribs look yummy--in more ways than one!

By purchasing the cookbook, trying out a recipe, commenting on this post and the posts of those participating on the tour (don't forget to leave your email), you can earn entries to win a copy of each book in the cookbook-22 books that total over $200! Click here for more info.

Head on over to check out these great blogs who are helping me spread the word:

Michelle A True Book Addict
Alicia Ali's Bookshelf
Chrystal Snowdrop Dreams
Juju Tales of Whimsy
Deirdre A Storybook World
Christine Day Dreamer
Taffy The Book Addict

Bloggers rave about The 2012 Book Blogger's Cookbook

noreply@blogger.com (Christy) — Thu, 17 May 2012 18:50:00 +0000

Silver Solara

Food and Books....you can't ask for a better combination. We all love to eat, and most everyone loves to read. ~Elizabeth at Silver Solara.

Welcome to the second week of The 2012 Book Blogger's Cookbook tour! Tomorrow is the last day to enter!

Today a few of the bloggers who are included in the cookbook review it and tell us what they think.

By purchasing the cookbook, trying out a recipe, commenting on this post, and the posts of those participating on the tour (don't forget to leave your email), you can earn entries to win a copy of each book in the cookbook-22 books that total over $200! Click here for more info.

Head on over to check out these great blogs who are helping me spread the word:

Elizabeth Silver Solara

Jessica Total Bookaholic

Kellee Teach Mentor Texts

Enter to win $200 worth of books on The 2012 Book Blogger's Cookbook tour

noreply@blogger.com (Christy) — Wed, 16 May 2012 15:46:00 +0000

"Get on the train to delicious books and mouth-watering recipes. Be sure to take a moment to get off the train long enough to see all the stops along the tour. Big prizes. Talented writers. Fun blogs. It's a win/win." ~Laura at Alvor

Welcome to the second week of The 2012 Book Blogger's Cookbook tour!

By purchasing the cookbook, trying out a recipe, commenting on this post and the posts of those participating on the tour (don't forget to leave your email), you can earn entries to win a copy of each book in the cookbook-22 books that total over $200! Click here for more info.

Head on over to check out these great blogs who are helping me spread the word:

Laura Alvor
Paula The Phantom Paragrapher
Robin Books for YAs
Sue Books, Books, the Magical Fruit
Susan Bloggin 'Bout Books

Million Dollar Diva by Tristi Pinkston

noreply@blogger.com (Christy) — Tue, 15 May 2012 21:09:00 +0000

Finally - the woman's answer to growing rich safely! Women today face more money challenges than ever before, from managing careers and families to finances - the demands on their time and resources are increasing. Bad financial advice abounds, and it can be hard to know what to do. Award-winning author Tristi Pinkston teams up with bestselling authors Brett Kitchen and Ethan Kap to bring you Million Dollar Diva. Experience Tristi's real-life transformation from stuggling in debt to million-dollar retirement!

In this book, you'll discover:

The 5-step, simple, safe, and predictable process to change living paycheck-to-paycheck to enjoying wealth and security.

How to give yourself a $400 per month raise without asking the boss or working a minute of overtime. "Spend Like a Diva."

How to have anything you want - nice vacations, eating out, trips to the mall. It's all part of the plan! The secret formula of how to completely eliminate your debt in 1/3 the time and save tens of thousands on interest costs in the process.

You'll see why all the TV gurus are wrong! 5 Million-Dollar-Diva investing strategies that will grow your money safely and predictably every year, without the guesswork.

Plus! Discover the key to stop fighting and quarreling with your spouse about money forever! Imagine yourself living debt-free and building a million-dollar retirement safely and securely, so you can have total confidence in yourself and your future.

~Published by Brigham Distributing, April 2, 2012

I'm pleased to present to you my friend Tristi's latest book about saving money. Who of you doesn't need a book that can save you money? This little gem of a book is all about taking small steps that can correct the course you are on and lead you toward a better retirement.

The format of this book is easy to read and told in an entertaining, conversational way. With the help of financial advisors Brett Kitchen and Ethan Kapp, Tristi helps you see how you can cut spending, eliminate debt, and secure a retirement.

I recommend this book to everyone--get your copy right away!

And don't forget to check out Tristi's website and the Million Dollar Diva website. Tristi has recently changed her eating lifestyle and lost over 80 pounds! This woman is changing her life and her books can help you out!

Rootbeer Cookies and Pumpkin Custard! Try out a recipe from The 2012 Book Blogger's Cookbook

noreply@blogger.com (Christy) — Tue, 15 May 2012 13:57:00 +0000

"Not only does The Book Blogger's Cookbook have delicious recipes - all 22 of the recipes are paired with the description and cover of the inspiring book.I recommend The Book Bloggers Cookbook for any book blogger or cook out there; especially those of you that have a passion for the Young Adult genre." ~Jennifer, My Life With Books

Welcome to the second week of The 2012 Book Blogger's Cookbook tour!

Today some of the reviewers are highlighting recipes that are included in the cookbook. Check out Modern Day Rootbeer Cookies and Polite Pumpkin Custard!

By purchasing the cookbook, trying out a recipe, commenting on this post and the posts of those participating on the tour (don't forget to leave your email), you can earn entries to win a copy of each book in the cookbook-22 books that total over $200! Click here for more info.

Head on over to check out these great blogs who are helping me spread the word:

Jennifer My Life With Books
Mindi Min Reads and Reviews and LDS Women's Book Reviews
Stella Ex Libris
Diana Amazing Book Adventures
Arla Leave Mommy Alone
Jessica Hopeless Bibliophile

The 2012 Book Blogger's Cookbook Launch Tour - enter to win over $200 worth of books!

noreply@blogger.com (Christy) — Mon, 14 May 2012 13:31:00 +0000

"It's a delicious variety of books, amazing bloggers with a voice of their own, and incredibly amazing good eats. Anyone who enjoys love of reading paired with cooking, will find this book to be a smashing success." -Susan at Soul Unsung

Welcome to the second week of The 2012 Book Blogger's Cookbook tour!

By purchasing the cookbook, trying out a recipe, commenting on this post and the posts of those participating on the tour (don't forget to leave your email), you can earn entries to win a copy of each book in the cookbook-22 books that total over $200! Click here for more info.

Head on over to check out these great blogs who are helping me spread the word:

Susan Soul Unsung
Cait Escape Through the Pages
Christie The Fiction Enthusiast
Ashley Book Labyrinth
Trudy Boys and Literacy
Rob YA Author

Bloggers rave about recipes in The 2012 Book Blogger's Cookbook

noreply@blogger.com (Christy) — Fri, 11 May 2012 13:55:00 +0000

The reviews are in. Some great bloggers are putting recipes to the test during The 2012 Book Blogger's Cookbook launch! Until Monday you can get the cookbook at it's introductory price of .99 cents!

By purchasing the cookbook, trying out a recipe, commenting on this post and the posts of those participating on the tour (don't forget to leave your email), you will be entered to win a copy of each book in the cookbook-22 books that total over $200! Click here for more info.

Head on over to check out these great blogs who are helping me spread the word:

Cathy My Book a Day
Lots of reviews and giveaways.

Tiffini Waldron Publishing
Articles, ebook reviews, interviews.

Kristi The Book Faery
Daily reviews and conversations.

Kate Mundie Moms
Book reviews, fan site, live author chats.

Cindy Kiss The Book
Book reviews for K-12 librarians.

Motherhood Matters by Connie E. Sokol

noreply@blogger.com (Christy) — Thu, 10 May 2012 21:42:00 +0000

Motherhood Matters by Connie E. Sokol

In these hectic days where life's demands can quickly become a heavy burden, Motherhood Matters helps you find more memorable moments and take the stress out of the to-do lists. Written with clarity, concision, and wit, this short, yet indispensable handbook is better than flowers, more guilt-free than chocolate, and gives back to the woman who sacrifices so much of herself every single day.

Hardcover, 128 pages Published March 13th 2012 by Cedar Fort

I had the lucky chance to meet Connie at a conference last weekend. She is darling and very pregnant. I'm hoping that she's already had that baby #7. That's right, she is very well qualified to write a book on motherhood.

This darling little book is the perfect size for an inspirational book for mother's day. I purchased two copies for the mothers in my life and I have to admit that I read one of them through before I wrapped it up.

There are many, many, gems of wisdom in this little book. But one section in particular caught my eye. Connie writes about how to balance the many adventures in your life as a mother, always keeping motherhood first.

"Trust in the Lord. Trust His promises, "for he will fulfil all his promises which he shall make unto you" (Alma 37:17). He knows that fulfilling your role as a mother will bring you the greatest joy now and in the future, so trust in His wisdom to know what will keep it first." Page 43.

Don't you just love that? I am always struggling to balance motherhood with the other roles in my life.

Happy Mother's Day to all of you lovely ladies--mother's or not!

Buzz about The 2012 Book Blogger's Cookbook

noreply@blogger.com (Christy) — Thu, 10 May 2012 14:02:00 +0000

There's lots of buzz going on today for The 2012 Book Blogger's Cookbook launch! For a limited time you can get the cookbook at it's introductory price of .99 cents!

By commenting on this post and the posts of those participating on the tour (don't forget to leave your email), you will be entered to win a copy of each book in the cookbook-22 books that total over $200! Click here for more info.

Head on over to check out these great blogs who are helping me spread the word:

Rachel Rachel Fisher
Indie author and blogger!

Lauren Epilogue Review
Lots of book reviews and some great discussions.

Valerie Stuck in Books
Giveaways and book reviews.

Regina Hot Books
Challenges, reviews and giveaways.

Amber Amber Argyle, Author
Fantasy author.

Sarah M Eden Author, Historical Romance
Regency romance author and generally funny gal!

More ways to win $200 worth of books!

noreply@blogger.com (Christy) — Wed, 09 May 2012 19:36:00 +0000

Some of the books up for grabs

Now you can earn even more entries during The 2012 Book Blogger's Cookbook tour!

5 extra entries: Purchase the cookbook during the book launch, May 7-18th, at the sales price of .99 cents.

Then post the confirmation number of the digital download in the comments (don't forget to leave a contact email also)

10 extra entries: Create one of the recipes in the cookbook and blog about the experience on your blog. Leave the link to your post in the comments.

Have fun!

Elana Johnson and Kati at Jagged Edge Reviews talk up The 2012 Book Blogger's Cookbook

noreply@blogger.com (Christy) — Wed, 09 May 2012 13:12:00 +0000

Welcome to day three of The 2012 Book Blogger's Cookbook launch tour! For a limited time you can get the cookbook at it's introductory price of .99 cents!

By commenting on this post and the posts of those participating on the tour (don't forget to leave your email), you will be entered to win a copy of each book in the cookbook-22 books that total over $200! Click here for more info.

Today Elana and Kati are helping me get the word out about the cookbook:

Kati Jagged Edge Reviews
Kati and her friend Moujnur are teens who review books, a lot of them! You will find some great recommendations and giveaways here.

Elana Johnson YA Author
Elana's site is a gem. You should take a few hours to explore it. She has a fantastic section on query writing (I highly recommend it). And she has such a fun voice and style. She is the author of Possession, one of the books included in The 2012 Book Blogger's Cookbook.

Book Blogger's Cookbook launch and meet three fab book reviewers

noreply@blogger.com (Christy) — Tue, 08 May 2012 12:16:00 +0000

Today is the second day of The 2012 Book Blogger's Cookbook launch! For a limited time you can get the cookbook at it's introductory price of .99 cents!

By commenting on this post and the posts of those participating on the tour (don't forget to leave your email), you will be entered to win a copy of each book in the cookbook-22 books that total over $200! Click here for more info.

Head on over to check out these great blogs who are helping me spread the word:

Becca Beckys Barmy Book Blog
Lots of reviews and giveaways here.

Emily Super Reader Girl
New releases and reviews.

Jean Book Nerd
Lots of interviews and giveaways.

Win $200 worth of books! Tour stops and prizes

noreply@blogger.com (Christy) — Mon, 07 May 2012 13:51:00 +0000

Today is the first day of The 2012 Book Blogger's Cookbook launch! For a limited time you can get the cookbook at it's introductory price of .99 cents!

By commenting on this post and the posts of those participating on the tour, you will be entered to win a copy of each book in the cookbook-22 books that total over $200! Click here for more info.

Head on over to check out these great blogs who are helping me spread the word:

MizB Should Be Reading
Plenty of reviews, challenges and tours here.

Kathy I Am a Reader Not a Writer
She always has great giveaways and reviews, and lots of them!

Shana Book Vacations
Want to get away? Shana can recommend a reading vacation.

The 2012 Book Blogger's Cookbook Launch Tour May 7-18th

noreply@blogger.com (Christy) — Wed, 02 May 2012 21:09:00 +0000

The 2012 Book Blogger's Cookbook
by Christy Dorrity

I am pleased to announced the publication of The 2012 Book Blogger's Cookbook!

Stop by a different blog each day between May 7th and May 18th and enter to win great prizes.

Grand Prize Giveaway:

Over $200 worth of books!
Plus Five Copies of The 2012 Book Blogger’s Cookbook

So many of the authors who have books featured in the cookbook have donated copies of their books for this giveaway (check back for an updated list).

All you have to do is leave a comment with your email address on this post or any of the great blogs that are participating. Then, if you want more entries into the contest, tweet, facebook, or blog about the cookbook and leave a separate comment telling me what you did. You can say something like: Win $200 of books at the launch tour of The 2012 Book Blogger's Cookbook http://tinyurl.com/6nqtxpp Winners will be drawn using random.org on May 25th.

5 extra entries: Purchase the cookbook during the book launch, May 7-18th, at the sales price of .99 cents.

Then post the confirmation number of the digital download in the comments (don't forget to leave a contact email also)

10 extra entries: Create one of the recipes in the cookbook and blog about the experience on your blog. Leave the link to your post in the comments.

But that's not all folks! For the first week of the tour, The 2012 Book Blogger's Cookbook will be available for only .99 cents.

Watch for a surprise bonus on the last day of the tour May 18th.

Go to Amazon to purchase The 2012 Book Blogger's Cookbook

Tour schedule:

May

7
Miz Should Be Reading
Kathy I Am a Reader not a Writer
Shana Book Vacation

8
Becca Beckys Barmy Book Blog
Emily Super Reader Girl
Jean Book Nerd

9
Katie Klears Reviews
Elana Johnson YA Author

10

Rachel Rachel Fisher
Lauren Epilogue Review
Valerie Stuck in Books
Regina Hot Books
Amber Amber Argyle, Author
Sarah M Eden Author, Historical Romance

11

Cathy My Book a Day

Tiffini Waldron Publishing
Kristi The Book Faery
Kate Mundie Moms
Cindy Kiss The Book

14
Susan Soul Unsung
Cait Escape Through the Pages
Christie The Fiction Enthusiast
Ashley Book Labyrinth
Trudy Boys and Literacy

15
Jennifer My Life With Books
Mindi Min Reads and Reviews and LDS Women's Book Reviews
Stella Ex Libris
Diana Amazing Book Adventures
Arla Leave Mommy Alone
Jessica Hopeless Bibliophile

16
Sue Books, Books, the Magical Fruit
Susan Bloggin 'Bout Books
Laura Alvor
Paula The Phantom Paragrapher
Robin Books for YAs

17
Elizabeth Silver Solara
Jessica Total Bookaholic
Kellee Teach Mentor Texts

18

Michelle A True Book Addict
Alicia Ali's Bookshelf
Chrystal Snowdrop Dreams
Juju Tales of Whimsy
Deirdre A Storybook World
Christine Day Dreamer
Taffy The Book Addict

Tasty Tuesday - Chocolate Violet Creams

noreply@blogger.com (Christy) — Sat, 14 Apr 2012 19:48:00 +0000

Chocolate Violet Creams

Dating in the Victorian era is anything but easy, especially for Athena in Courting Miss Lancaster by Sarah M. Eden. Harry has convinced himself that if he can't have Athena, he can at least make certain that she marries well. Athena adores violets and I just knew this novel would be complemented by a recipe with the edible flower.Violet creams are popular in the UK and feel very Victorian--wouldn't you agree?

3 Tablespoons heavy whipping cream

purple food coloring

2 Tablespoons violet syrup (or rose syrup or 1 drop lavender oil)

11/2 cups powdered sugar

7 oz. chocolate chips, milk or dark

1 teaspoon olive oil

Place the whipping cream, food coloring(to your liking) and violet syrup in a small bowl and mix well. Sprinkle the powdered sugar over the liquid and stir to combine. Lightly dust a work surface with powdered sugar and turn the fondant out, kneading until it forms a firm ball.

Roll 18 teaspoon sized balls and as many tiny little balls if you desire to decorate the tops of the chocolates. Refrigerate the fondant balls for at least 30 minutes.

Melt the chocolate and oil in the microwave for one minute. Stir and continue to cook for 30 seconds at a time until the chocolate is melted. Dip the large fondant balls in the chocolate and using two spoons, place them on some parchment paper to dry. Top each chocolate with a tiny fondant ball. Let set up for at least 3 hours. Store in an airtight container. Makes 18 chocolates.

Tasty Tuesday - Rosemary, Sea Salt and Crème Fraîche Croissants

noreply@blogger.com (Christy) — Tue, 10 Apr 2012 22:24:00 +0000

Rosemary and Sea Salt Crème Fraîche Croissants
for Starcrossed by Josephine Angelini

Rosemary, Sea Salt and Crème Fraîche Croissants

Helen, in Starcrossed by Josephine Angelini, lives in Nantucket, and yet she dreads the sea. Her father's girlfriend, Kate, makes delicious croissants that reflect Helen and her story. The sea salt in the croissants represents the ties Helen has to the sea; the rosemary is the subtlety with which Helen learns about her heritage; and the crème fraîche embodies the richness of the setting, and the background that is based in mythology. These croissants are time consuming but oh, so worth the trouble.

2 1/2 teaspoons active dry yeast
3 Tablespoons warm water
1 teaspoons white sugar
3 cups all purpose flour
2 teaspoons white sugar
2 teaspoons salt
1 1/3 cup warm milk
3 Tablespoons olive oil
1 Tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped
11/3 cup unsalted butter, chilled
10-12 Tablespoons crème fraîche (see recipe below)
1 egg
1 Tablespoon water

Combine yeast, warm water, and 1 teaspoon of white sugar. Set aside. Measure flour into a mixing bowl. Dissolve 2 teaspoons of sugar and the salt in warm milk. Add the milk mixture to the flour along with yeast, oil and rosemary. Mix until smooth. Cover and let rise until triple in volume. Deflate and let rise again until doubled. Deflate and chill 20 minutes.

Divide the dough in two. Cut the butter into 1/2 inch slices and knead with fingers until pliable but not oily. Pat each dough ball into a14x8 inch rectangle. Smear the buter over the top two thirds of each rectangle. Don't worry about it looking pretty at this point. For each rectangle, fold the unbuttered third over the middle third and the buttered third down over that. Turn 90 degrees so that the folds are to the left and right. Roll out to a 14x6 inch rectangle. Fold in three gain. Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for two hours. Unwrap, sprinkle with flour and deflate gently. Roll to a 14x6 inch rectangle and fold again. Turn 90 degrees and repeat. Wrap the two rectangles separately from each other and chill two more hours.

To shape, roll one dough rectangle out to 20x5 inched. Cut in half crosswise and put one half in the fridge. When you have cut both dough rectangles, you should have three in the fridge and one to work with. Roll out to a 15x5 inch rectangle. Cut into 5x5 inch squares. Spread one tablespoon crème fraîche on each square. Cut each square in half diagonally. Roll up each triangle to form a crescent. Place on a backing sheet. Repeat with the other three chilled dough rectangles. Beat together the egg and 1 tablespoon of water. Glaze the croissants with the egg wash.

Bake at 475' for 12-15 minutes. Recipe yields 2 dozen flaky and flavorful croissants.

Crème Fraîche

1 cup whipping cream
2 Tablespoons buttermilk

Combine the whipping cream and buttermilk in a glass container. Cover with a cloth and allow to stand on the counter for 24 hours. Mix and store in the refrigerator.

Tasty Tuesday - Threaded Apple Pastry

noreply@blogger.com (Christy) — Sat, 07 Apr 2012 22:38:00 +0000

Threaded Apple Pastry
for Warped by Maurissa Guibord

Threaded Apple Pastry

Like the braids of this flaky pastry, Tessa and William in Warped by Maurissa Guibord, become entwined within the warping of a tapestry that holds William hostage. Tessa and William are threaded together through the ages and complement each other like the tart apples and sweet apples in the tart.

Apple filling:

5-6 large apples, peeled, cored and thinly sliced
1 1/2 Tablespoons flour
1 cup sugar
1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
dash of salt
1/2 teaspoon lemon juice
1 egg, beaten

Mix all the ingredients together in a large bowl. Let the mixture sit to thicken while you make the pastry.

Pastry:

2 1/2 cups flour
1 teaspoon salt
pinch of baking powder
1 cup cold unsalted butter
1 egg
1 Tablespoon apple cider vinegar
1/4 cup cold water
1 egg white
1 teaspoon water

Combine dry ingredients in a bowl. Cut the cold butter into 1/2 inch cubes. Mix the butter into the flour mixture with your hands, pinching the butter until the ingredients resembles coarse cornmeal.

In a small bowl whisk the egg, vinegar and cold water. Stir into the dry ingredients mixture. Mix with your hands until you can form a firm ball.

Roll the pastry dough into a large rectangle. Roll the rectangle onto your rolling pin and unroll the dough onto a baking pan. Place the apple filling down the center of the rectangle, leaving at least 3 inches on each side of the filling. Using a butter knife, cut diagonal slits in the pastry dough, from the filling outward. Continue the slits the length of the dough, forming 1 inch strips of pastry on each side of the filling. Fold the top and bottom of the pastry in first followed by the strips of pastry over each other like a braid.

In a small bowl beat the egg white and 1 teaspoon water. Brush the braided pastry with the egg.

Bake at 375 for 35 minutes until the top crust is a golden brown.

Starcrossed by Josephine Angelini

noreply@blogger.com (Christy) — Sat, 07 Apr 2012 21:00:00 +0000

Starcrossed by Josephine Angelini

Destiny brought them together, the Gods will keep them apart.

Helen Hamilton has spent her entire 16 years trying to hide how different she is--no easy task on an island as small and sheltered as Nantucket. And it's getting harder. Nightmares of a desperate desert journey have Helen waking parched, only to find her sheets damaged by dirt and dust.

~Hardcover, 487 pages Published May 31st 2011 by HarperTeen

Food to Eat While Reading: Rosemary, Sea Salt and Crème Fraîche Croissants

Rosemary, Sea Salt and Crème Fraîche Croissants

I'm loving the Greek mythology stories that are big right now and Starcrossed is an imaginative and fresh story based in that mythology. The feuding families of gods and demi-gods who are trying to find Atlantis provide a rich well for Angelini to create her story.

The story has a great sense of place in Nantucket. I felt transported to the ocean and the idiosyncrasies of it's small towns. I love it when an author takes me away for a little while.

Helen and Lucas' forbidden love didn't work for me. I couldn't relate. I wanted to feel the spark caused when two people can't stand to be together and yet can't stay away, but I couldn't get into it. I knew they would end up together and it slowed the pacing for me. Later in the story when it was known that they could never fully express their love to each other, I cringed at the resulting scenarios. Helen and Lucas alternate between pushing the boundaries and claiming that they could remain celibate.

There is tons of action in Starcrossed and I didn't want to put the book down. I never knew who would be spared and who was in serious jeopardy.

Unlike some paranormal stories where the protagonist finds out later in life that all along they had these amazing powers, Helen's story is entirely plausible. I could believe that she didn't know about her God-like powers because of the curse that had been placed on her and the fact that she suppressed her own memories about her powers. I love it that her best friends knew that she was extraordinary and she didn't even have a clue. And cool powers--invincibility (but also vulnerable if she lost her necklace), and a lethal lighting charge.

It would be way cool to see her abuse her new-found powers a bit and be tempted by the "bad side" of the family.

I'm not sure what to think about the sirens. They are wicked in an awesome, gruesome way, and I would like to have seen Helen and Lucas go after them.

The bottom line:
Starcrossed crosses the line between myth and reality as it asks what in life can be controlled and what is left to fate?

Call for Bloggers - The 2012 Book Blogger's Cookbook

noreply@blogger.com (Christy) — Fri, 30 Mar 2012 20:09:00 +0000

Call for bloggers-The 2012 Book Blogger's Cookbook

I am thrilled to announce the beginning of The 2012 Book Blogger's Cookbook. If you are a blogger, author, foodie, or bookie who would like to be involved with a fantastic project, welcome!

Would you join with me as I launch the second edition of The Book Blogger’s Cookbook? I am trying to reach readers who love books and cooking, and who want to find reliable book bloggers to navigate the ever-increasing stacks of ebooks.

The 2011 Book Blogger’s Cookbook is receiving great reviews and has a 4.5 star rating on Amazon. Reviewers and readers love the mix of tasty reads and adventurous eats that are included in the cookbook.

This year’s edition features more books, more bloggers and an introduction from New York Time’s Bestselling author, David Farland. His fantastic YA novel, Nightingale, will be included in the cookbook. (For a sneak peak at the books and authors that will be included in this year's cookbook, take a look at the form below).

How can you help?

Fill out the form below if you would like to be included in The 2012 Book Blogger's Cookbook, review the cookbook, or be involved with the book launch. If you would rather just send me an email, feel free to do so.

Please help me get the world out to fellow bloggers about this chance to reach out to readers.

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Courting Miss Lancaster by Sarah M. Eden

noreply@blogger.com (Christy) — Fri, 23 Mar 2012 07:00:00 +0000

Courting Miss Lancaster by Sarah M. Eden

Harry Windover adores blonde, green-eyes Athena Lancaster, but alas, a penniless man like himself has no hope of winning a young noblewoman's hand. To add insult to injury, Athena's brother-in-law and guardian, the Duke of Kielder, has asked Harry to assist Athena in finding a gentleman of her dreams. But the lovesick Harry is cunning as well: as the weeks pass, he introduces Athena to suitors who are horrifically boring, alarmingly attached to their mothers, downright rude, astoundingly self-absorbed, and utterly ridiculous.

Athena can't comprehend why she is having so little success meeting eligible and acceptable gentlemen. Indeed, her circle of admirers couldn't be less admirable - nothing like the loyal, gentle friend she's found in Harry. But how long can Harry's scheme be hidden before it is discovered? And what will Athena do when she uncovers Harry's deception? Escape into a charming regency world in this delightfully romantic comedy of manners that will entertain you to the very last word.

-Published March 1st 2010 by Covenant Communications, Incorporated

Food to eat while reading: Chocolate Violet Creams

If you thought regency romance to be stuffy and boring, think again. Funny, romantic and delightful, Courting Miss Lancaster will have you snorting your afternoon tea through your nose.

I met Sarah at the LDSStorymaker's Conference last year and not only is she cute and funny, she's even shorter than I am and she's a great writer. I realize that Courting Miss Lancaster is the second in a series of related books, but it is the first of Sarah's books that I have read and because of that, it's the first to be reviewed.

It took me awhile to get used to the jargon and way of speaking of a regency romance. Most of the books I read tend to be contemporary and I had to switch gears. I love Anne of Green Gables and as soon as I imagined Anne as a neighbor to Athena, I settled right in.

Who can resist thwarted love? Athena and Harry are meant to be together. Athena so desperately wants to be courted by a man who loves her, even if she does have unrealistic expectations of how that man will come into her life. Harry is in love with Athena but has resigned himself to the fact that if he cannot have Athena (his advances would be seen as fortune hunting), at least he can see to it that she marries well.

London in the 1800's is peculiar, especially compared to the dating and marriage customs we follow today. I loved getting to know the time period better. I have heard Sarah say that she is very particular about her research for a time period and it shows in her novel. The period style mannerisms, clothing, and colloquialisms perfectly seasoned the story, never dousing it in boring detail.

Courting Miss Lancaster can be read out of sequence in the series. The books are companion books and even though I haven't read the first book, Seeking Persephone, I didn't feel lost or left out.

The story was a bit predictable, but sometimes that is nice and reliable--like how you know that when you get done putting the kids to bed there's a nice piece of dark (violet) chocolate waiting for you in the pantry.

Warped by Maurissa Guibord

noreply@blogger.com (Christy) — Wed, 21 Mar 2012 20:38:00 +0000

Warped by Maurissa Guibord

Tessa doesn't believe in magic. Or Fate. But there's something weird about the dusty unicorn tapestry she discovers in a box of old books. She finds the creature woven within it compelling and frightening. After the tapestry comes into her possession, Tessa experiences dreams of the past and scenes from a brutal hunt that she herself participated in. When she accidentally pulls a thread from the tapestry, Tessa releases a terrible centuries old secret. She also meets William de Chaucy, an irresistible 16th-century nobleman. His fate is as inextricably tied to the tapestry as Tessa's own. Together, they must correct the wrongs of the past. But then the Fates step in, making a tangled mess of Tessa's life. Now everyone she loves will be destroyed unless Tessa does their bidding and defeats a cruel and crafty ancient enemy.

-Hardcover, 339 pages Published January 11th 2011 by Delacorte Books for Young Readers

Food to eat while reading: Threaded Apple Pastry

Threaded Apple Pastry

I like the idea of lives being woven into a tapestry and unicorns are always intriguing. But a guy being a unicorn? I'm not so sure.

Tessa's voice is unique and I like her character. She is a refreshing modern contrast to William de Chaucey's old fashioned tales.

Somehow I didn't believe the romance between Tessa and William. For starteers, I never did get a feel for William and as a reader, I have to be a little in love with the hero to be glad for the heroine to fall in love with him.

I would like to have seen a show-down with the Norn and also see Tessa show some signs of the paranormal strength that is hinted at but not played on.

I wanted to see more of what happened as a result of the Norn fates and the evil Grey Lily tampering with the tapestry threads. Just changing her father's health and friend's loyalty weren't enough for me.

The idea that Tessa and WIlliam's threads are tied together and that they keep weaving around each other through the ages. I wanted more of that idea.

Bottom line - a handful of intriguing ideas but the story fell short of my expectations--I wanted more. I have no major qualms about the writing or content. It's a clean read with no swearing and one borderline romance scene.

Kindles for Kids and Writing for Young Readers Conference

noreply@blogger.com (Christy) — Fri, 16 Mar 2012 20:17:00 +0000

Danyelle Leafty is donating the royalties from her book Catspell to purchase Kindles for children in a hospital in Utah. It's such a worthy cause! If you are a reader you can download her book and the proceeds will help kids in need. If you are an author, you can contribute a short fairy story for an anthology that Danyelle is loading onto the Kindles she purchases. Go to Danyelle's blog for more information.

I purchased Catspell and you can too!

The Writing and Illustrating for Young Readers conference will be held June 18-22. I have not attended the conference but I have heard from many fellow writers how beneficial it has been to them or that they found their agent there.

You can choose to attend morning workshops and afternoon sessions, or both. There will be workshops and classes, book signings and more. There is also an awesome contest/scholarship. You won't want to miss it! Go to the Writing and Illustrating for Young Readers blog to find out more.

Tasty Tuesday - Glopified Muffins

noreply@blogger.com (Christy) — Wed, 22 Feb 2012 23:41:00 +0000

Glopified Muffins for Janitors by Tyler Whitesides

Glopified Muffins

If janitorial supplies can be magical, why not muffins? In Janitors by Tyler Whitesides, Spencer stumbles into a secret janitor/warlock lair where various mops and tools are "glopified" into magical objects. Using these objects, the Spencer and his friend help defend their school against the creatures and warlocks who would lull the students into passive oblivion. After you "glopify" these muffins in your own kitchen, the batter can be magically kept in the refrigerator for up to six weeks.

1 20 oz box bran raisin cereal

1 cup olive or canola oil

2 cups sugar

4 eggs, beaten

1 quart buttermilk

5 cups flour

5 teaspoons baking soda

2 teaspoons salt

Mix all ingredients together. Store in a covered container in the fridge overnight before cooking. Do not stir the batter. Use a cookie scoop to portion into muffin tins. Bake at 350' for 15 minutes.

Book review of Janitors by Tyler Whitesides

noreply@blogger.com (Christy) — Wed, 22 Feb 2012 22:43:00 +0000

Janitors by Tyler Whitesides

The janitors at Welcher Elementary know a secret, and it's draining all the smarts out of the kids. Twelve year-old Spencer Zumbro, with the help of his classmate Daisy Gullible Gates, must fight with and against a secret, janitorial society that wields wizard-like powers.

~Hardcover, 300 pages Published August 1st 2011 by Shadow Mountain

Food to Eat While Reading: Glopified Muffins

Glopified Muffins for Janitors by Tyler Whitesides

Janitors by Tyler Whitesides is a fun, imaginative story that is perfect for middle schoolers (and those of us who also enjoy such a read). Perfect for reading out loud, this book is a great choice for family bedtime snuggling and school reading time. With a boy and girl heroine, both genders will get a kick out of Spencer and Daisy's antics.

The clever theme of being a chameleon is woven throughout the story--everyone tries to make themselves out in the best light, but in the end, everything goes better if they tell the truth.

After I finished Janitors, I went back and read the opening scene to marvel at the way the author incorporated important objects and people in the very first page that play a large role later on. What I thought was simply set up to show what his life before meeting the Janitors actually set up the entire story.

The magic system in Janitors is intriguing. I'd like to see a bit more creativity in what the Janitors can "glopify". Riding broomsticks isn't a new concept for kids, afterall. I hope the author pushes the limits of his magic system in the next book.

The ending sets up the next book, Secrets of the New Forest Academy (out Fall of 2012) and promises an excellent adventure.

Persuasion by Rebecca Jamison - Giveaway

noreply@blogger.com (Christy) — Tue, 14 Feb 2012 18:07:00 +0000

Persuasion: A Latter-day Tale by Rebecca H. Jamison

I'm tickled to be on the launch tour of this fun novel that releases today! And what better day to review a romance book than on Valentine's Day? Stop by the other blogs on the tour. Don't forget to visit Rebecca's website for more news.

I'm giving away an ARC copy of this wonderful love story. All you need to do is follow my blog and leave a comment on this post. If you want to spread the word about this giveaway you will earn another entry for each instance. Just leave a separate comment for each instance. Winner will be selected at random and announced Friday, February 17th.

When Anne broke off her engagement seven years ago, she thought she'd never see Neil Wentworth again. But when Neil's brother buys the house she grew up in, it seems fate has other plans in store, and Anne is woefully unprepared for the roller coaster of emotions that accompanies Neil's return. Fans of Persuasion will love this fast-paced, modern retelling of Jane Austen's most romantic novel.

Paperback, 240 pages Expected publication: February 14th 2012 by Cedar Fort, Inc.

Persuasion: A Latter-day Tale by Rebecca H. Jamison is based on Jane Austen's classic novel Persuasion and set in a modern-day Latter-day saint setting. If you are like me and you have never read Jane Austen, don't be scared away, Jamison's modern retelling is current and you will have no trouble being drawn into Anne and her dilemma.

My favorite thing about Jamison's story is Anne's voice. She is down to earth, a bit self-conscious and I found it a joy to read about the novel's happenings through Anne's eyes. Her personality and self-doubt make the fact that she thinks Neil could never love her again believable.

The first few chapters of Persuasion: A Latter-day Tale put me off a bit. The opening scene did not interest me at all, had too much back story and after reading the book, it's my opinion that the first scene does not give a good representation of the rest of the story. I would have cut the first few chapters and sped up the action a bit.

Before each chapter is a journal written flashback. I found them distracting and I'm not certain that they pushed the story forward or provided any benefit. In fact, a few times I regretted having to slow down long enough to switch gears before seeing what happened in the current timeline.

The interactions between Anne and her family are fun and endearing. One of her sisters is always trying to get Anne to take her kids and the other is a total ditz who just generally needs help. Anne's parents aren't much better--divorced and flighty at best. Anne is loyal to her family and this helps the reader understand why she could be holding on to the relationship she had with Neil.

After reading the story, I read about the plot of Jane Austen's Persuasion on Wikipedia. It was interesting to see the parallels and I am certain that fans of Jane Austen will enjoy the references that I, in my ignorance, missed. I did wonder, though, why Jamison used some exact names from the original story and other names were completely unrelated in her retelling.

I enjoyed the many interactions that bring Anne closer to Neil. He is a worthy suitor for Anne who is transposed into a modern society where suitors are not always so, as evidenced by other characters in the book. Neil is kind, loyal, protective, capable and gentle--qualities any woman would look for in a man.

Whether you've read Austen's novels or no, be prepared to be swept away by Jamison's retelling of Persuasion.

Saturday Feb 18--Book Launch Party and Signing at Taylorsville Seagull Book 11-1 ( 5720 S. Redwood Road, Taylorsville)