tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7388258868407084902024-03-05T19:24:20.923-08:00Books 'n Rocks 'n StuffVerbal meanderings about good books, the creative process and how it applies to so much of what we do, jewelry design--what inspires me, the stones I like, great recipes from my collection, gardening, Ireland and travel, and anything else that comes to mind.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16985985635171284853noreply@blogger.comBlogger96125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-738825886840708490.post-3265483061324715352016-06-06T18:31:00.003-07:002016-06-06T18:31:56.557-07:00My review of Clean Eating with a Dirty Mind by Vanessa Barajas.
Often when one decides to “go Paleo” the question of dessert comes up. Vanessa Barajas has the answer in her delightful Clean Eating with a Dirty Mind. Yes, you can have dessert, but make it a special occasion and not an everyday happening. Her book offers a selection of tasty salads, casseroles and sides, but the main focus is on very special desserts that look and taste amazing.
The book is well laid-out with the usual how-to’s, tool selections, tips about flours, leaveners and general terminology in chapter one. The recipes follow.
I particularly liked the Duck fat Fries (p. 90) that use russet potatoes and truffle salt. Loaded mashed Cauliflower (p. 92) is filled with bacon, onion, egg and fresh chives, so tasty you’ll never miss the cheese. My favorite recipe in this section is the Chipotle Chicken Salad (p. 102), a combination of shredded, cooked chicken (I used rotisserie chicken from Costco) with diced celery, red onion, mayo and chiles in adobo sauce.
In the lengthy dessert section, I was particularly drawn to the Spiced Maple Pear Tart (p. 192). Pear tart is a family favorite at Thanksgiving and this is on the must-try list for this year’s celebration. It calls for a Holiday Spiced Crust (p. 174), apple juice, maple syrup, bosc pears and full fat coconut milk. Other recipes include Crème Brulee, several gorgeous cakes, cookies, cashew clusters, chocolate-covered toffee and cookie dough fudge. Truly decadent, but fully Paleo creations for that special occasion. The recipes are easy to follow and outstandingly photographed. There are troubleshooting tips plus instructions for making items such as chocolate curls and ways to decorate cakes (Check out the jaw-dropping creation on pages 233 and 234—a Caramel Maple Fig Cake in four layers!).
If desserts are your thing, this is the book for you. If you haven’t gained five pounds just feasting your eyes on all this decadent loveliness, follow Vanessa’s instructions and you’ll be crafting show-stopping desserts in no time.
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16985985635171284853noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-738825886840708490.post-35130035696580398202016-05-24T07:59:00.001-07:002016-05-24T07:59:39.113-07:00The New Yiddish Kitchen by Simone Miller & Jennifer Robins - my reviewI review a lot of Paleo cookbooks, consequently, my bookshelf overfloweth with cookbooks. Nevertheless, when I read about The New Yiddish Kitchen by Simone Miller and Jennifer Robins, I had to have a copy.
Not only do I follow a Paleo diet, I also keep a Kosher kitchen. Most Paleo books are awash in pork and seafood recipes. Not this one! The New Yiddish Kitchen features gluten-free and Paleo Kosher recipes for the holidays and every day. This is a beautiful hardcover book with exquisite photography—a photo for every recipe. Additionally, the Bubbes (grandmothers) comment on each dish, throwing in a bit of Yiddish slang.
Simone’s and Jennifer’s humor shines through the food descriptions, making one want to try each dish. I’ve only had the book less than two weeks and already have made several of the recipes. More on that later.
The book is divided into eight sections: Appetizers and Soups; Grain-free Breads and Crackers; Not-So-Traditional Deli Fare; Pastured Meats and Main Courses; Garden-Fresh Salads and Veggies; Naturally Sweetened Treats; Dairy-Free Condiments and Sauces and Holiday Menus and Tips. There’s even a Yiddish glossary to keep you from going meshuga.
Now to the recipes: my husband loves hummus, but the ones in the store are made with garbanzo beans—not Paleo. Jennifer and Simone have created a Roasted Squash Hummus (p. 19) that will make you forget all about “store-bought.” This one calls for cubed butternut squash. I used a box from Costco and saved myself some work. I tried the Challah (p. 52) with success. I bought the silicone challah mold since braiding gluten-free dough is impossible.
Next I made the Balsamic Braised Short Ribs (p. 122). This recipe calls for boneless short ribs, which I found at Costco. When the meat is done, remove it to a plate and reduce the remaining sauce by half, then pour it over the meat. The resulting sauce is absolutely delicious! I also made the Savory Lamb Goulash (p. 133) and loved it. Ground lamb combines with peppers, potatoes, carrots and onion and is seasoned with cumin, paprika, smoked paprika and turmeric.
The Pan-Roasted Chicken with Figs and Olives (p. 129) was superb. I used bone-in chicken thight for this dish. Next time I’ll use prunes instead of the figs. I served it with Dilly Slaw (p. 163), a delightful slaw variation (be sure to use fresh dill). Also included in the recipes I tried is the Israeli Salad (p. 164). This one, like the Dilly Slaw, keeps well in the fridge. The Pan-Fried Brussels Sprouts with Cranberries and Pine Nuts (p. 168) was a hit with the hubby, as was the Honey Dijon Asparagus (p. 175).
So far, every recipe has been very tasty and easy to prepare. Can’t say enough good things about this book. Get yourself a copy. You’ll be glad you did.
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16985985635171284853noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-738825886840708490.post-42232588554954129092016-05-24T07:57:00.000-07:002016-05-24T07:57:12.096-07:00Ditch the Wheat by Carol Lovett - a reviewThree words and a cookbook that will forever change your life states the inside cover of this exciting new book by Canadian author and Paleo enthusiast Carol Lovett. Suffering from irritable bowel syndrome, Carol indeed ditched the wheat and has regained her health and an unbound enthusiasm for healthful, gluten-free eating.
With a plethora of chapters that include The Why, What, and How of Paleo; Ingredients; Tools and Equipment; Tips and Tricks plus all the types of dishes, Ms. Lovett arms the reader with knowledge to begin a healthful journey. A quote from Sir Albert Howard, founder of the Organic Farming Movement states: The Birthright of all living things is health. This law is true for soil, plant, animal and man: the health of these four is one connected chain. Any weakness of defect in the health of any earlier link in the chain is carried on to the next and succeeding links, until it reaches the last, namely, man.” Pretty powerful words to start off a cookbook chock filled with how-to tips, ideas for stocking your Paleo kitchen, getting to know your fats and so much more.
The recipes are outstanding, and each section is preceded with a quotation. I particularly like one by nutritionist Chris Kresser: “Think of Paleo as a template, not a rigid prescription. There’s no one-size-fits-all approach.”
One of the outstanding recipes for me was the Spicy Fish cakes with Dipping Sauce (p. 212). Homemade aioli, Dijon mustard and chopped bell peppers spice up the canned salmon, but the dipping sauce, an extra-garlicky sriracha aioli makes these almond floured cakes truly outstanding. Chicken Fingers (p. 232) include a chipotle aioli dipping sauce. The Caramel Chocolate Nut Bars (p. 294) are to die for (they resemble the classic Turtles clusters), but probably a treat for very occasional indulgences.
All in all, this is a great introductory book for those new to Paleo. Lovett shows how simple ingredients can be transformed into exquisite delights.
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16985985635171284853noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-738825886840708490.post-60834123903674761162015-03-10T11:03:00.003-07:002015-03-10T11:03:48.288-07:00Here's my review of Diana Rodgers' The Homegrown Paleo Cookbook.
Diana Rodgers’ The Homegrown Paleo Cookbook landed in my mailbox the other day and I’m blown away. This author and her beautiful book speak to me. The layout, photographs and information are everything a Paleo gal interested in not only what she cooks but WHERE her food comes from could want. I am that gal—living in the coastal mountains near a beach town, yet not far from Silicon Valley. We have acreage, an orchard, an organic garden and chickens.
Diana’s book provides an overview of the many aspects of sustainable Paleo living wherein she discusses the problems of modern eating and offers instead the keys to a healthful farm-to-table method for better health. She covers the basics of raising animals—chickens, rabbits, sheep, goats, pigs and the family cow, along with a section on sustainable seafood and another on beekeeping.
You’ll learn about getting started with your garden, which varieties of certain vegetables are their personal favorites, plus how to build healthy soil and how best to rotate crops to ensure steady production. The recipes are divided into three seasons. I loved the early Season recipes that include delicacies such as Stinging Nettle Soup (p. 154), gorgeous pea green with a swirl of crème fraiche on top. There’s a grilled boneless leg of lamb with garlic scape pesto and mint that set my mouth watering and a Rhubarb Ginger Sauce (p. 172) that can be used with meat or as an ice cream topping. In the dessert section there’s one recipe…for Almond Panna Cotta with Roasted Strawberries (p. 198). I’m a panna cotta fan and am carefully watching the strawberry plants in my garden so I can pluck the first fruits for the delectable dish.
Midseason Recipes cover the time from July through September which coincides with canning season as well. I liked the Grilled Cinnamon Steak (p. 224) using grass-fed beef filet tail. A dry cinnamon rub coats the meat prior to grilling.
Late Season Recipes (late October to mid-December) include Big Bad Rooster Soup (p. 262), a chicken soup with an abundance of fresh veggies, Moroccan Egg and Lamb Tagine (p. 266) and Hard Cider (p. 276). This one piqued my interest since we have several apple trees in our little orchard. My next dish to try will be the Rosemary Potato Stacks (p. 292), a take-off on Potatoes Anna.
The book is chock full of numerous tips: how to care for cast-iron skillets, a meat doneness chart, how to render lard, how to can tomatoes and much more. The final section offers tips on living—how to have a healthy lifestyle, finding personal fulfillment, etc. While many of these are briefly touched upon, there’s a wealth of practical how to’s to interest anyone in the basics of sustainable Paleo living. For the beginner, there’s enough information to get started, and opens the doorway to additional extensive research. For the cook, the recipes alone will delight, but this book is a compendium and earns a well-deserved place on your bookshelf.
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16985985635171284853noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-738825886840708490.post-33344051487822247612014-01-05T19:45:00.001-08:002014-01-05T19:45:15.349-08:00<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjP3D_BQ8yBKj5BiuVEOtxaqLKy7UiHOFeL8pG5yQ9ZcLQl5UUyYHxu_2WrG00teIj1wb8UsfVxJT_dabaHxxrIa3vx9nhdh2DgOY8THeRD37Ekhk0QfaVETgCWNJ14zhTe7sjtnJKR9dY/s1600/51o2cNGpJGL._BO2,204,203,200_PIsitb-sticker-arrow-click,TopRight,35,-76_AA278_PIkin4,BottomRight,-47,22_AA300_SH20_OU01_.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjP3D_BQ8yBKj5BiuVEOtxaqLKy7UiHOFeL8pG5yQ9ZcLQl5UUyYHxu_2WrG00teIj1wb8UsfVxJT_dabaHxxrIa3vx9nhdh2DgOY8THeRD37Ekhk0QfaVETgCWNJ14zhTe7sjtnJKR9dY/s320/51o2cNGpJGL._BO2,204,203,200_PIsitb-sticker-arrow-click,TopRight,35,-76_AA278_PIkin4,BottomRight,-47,22_AA300_SH20_OU01_.jpg" /></a></div>
Having switched to a primal/paleo lifestyle in 2012, I’m always looking for cookbooks that support this eating plan. Some have been better than others. Danielle Walker scores high marks for Against all Grain. Not only is this a beautifully photographed work of art, the recipes are delectable, too. Danielle, who struggled for years with debilitating ulcerative colitis, gives a bit of her background and how her debut book came into being. She covers many topics in a friendly and informative manner in her topic Navigating a New Lifestyle. Here she covers some basics on paleo food ingredients (with a focus of fresh, organic and local) and kitchen equipment. Most of the rest of the book is divided into sections covering breakfasts(“to start off your morning”), appetizers (“small bites”), “soups, salads, and sides”, “the main event”, kid-friendly foods (“for the kid in us”), “muffins, loaves and morning cakes”, “sweets and treats”, “basics”, and finally a few drinks (“sip on this”). Two pages of menu suggestions—showing how some of her recipes can be combined, a resource guide and a substitutions and conversion page complete the contents. However, it would be a disservice to Ms. Walker to not go into a little detail about the book and the recipes.
First of all, Against all Grain is a large format, 368-page volume with a classy folded cover and exquisite photography. The glossy pages are thick and have a quality feel to them. To keep from getting spatters while I tried the recipes, I used a stand-type acrylic book holder. I tried several recipes. Ms. Walker states that she has striven to create paleo recipes from foods she and her family knew and loved. Fortunately for me, her favorites are mine as well, so finding recipes to sample was easy peasy. I made the Thai “Peanut” Vinaigrette (p. 314) to serve with her Asian Mango Slaw (p. 106). We loved both taste and texture, however, since coconut oil solidifies when cold, I recommend giving it a few seconds in the microwave to liquefy the dressing. I also made her Currant Scones (p. 232) and found them delectable. I’m a scone lover and plan to try the Lemon Curd listed in the sweets section. Next I made the Slow Cooker Sesame-Orange Chicken (p. 130) and found the sauce way better than the sugar-laden creations in other Oriental recipes. I made the Orange-Cranberry Muffins, once with fresh cranberries and once with dried, and found them the best I’ve had. And today I made her Marinated Artichokes (p. 76) and World-Famous Sandwich Bread (p. 226). Both were very good, however, I admit to preferring Brazilian Cheese Buns over sandwich bread. (A tip from another reviewer suggests using the 7 ½-inch bread pan, which I did, with the result of a higher loaf.) My preference notwithstanding, Ms. Walker has created a gem of a cookbook with many delicious-sounding dishes. I will be making many more of the recipes featured in Against all Grain. It has just become my go-to cookbook.
Thank you Ms. Walker.
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16985985635171284853noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-738825886840708490.post-19122760547380294672013-06-25T09:46:00.001-07:002013-06-25T09:46:18.566-07:00The Newcomer by Robyn Carr<b>Thunder Point Deputy Sheriff “Mac” McCain has struggled to keep his family together after being abandoned by his wife. It hasn't been easy, but with the help of a family member and his longtime friend Gina, things are moving along on an even keel. Mac has decided he and Gina will get together after the kids are grown. Mac has three and Gina has one, and she doesn't want to wait. In fact she's secretly wanted to explore a deeper relationship with the handsome law enforcement officer nicknamed “Mr. Yummypants.”
As their romance grows, Mac's reasons for waiting evaporate, but then their lives are turned upside down when Mac's long-departed ex wife returns to Thunder Point. What will this do to their new-found love?
The Newcomer is book two in Robyn Carr's new Thunder Point series, set along Oregon's rocky coast. It takes up where The Wanderer left off with the same delightful cast of characters and a few new surprises. I love Carr's storytelling, her delicious cast of characters and the pacing that keeps me turning pages long after I've decided I need to get some sleep. While I find it hard to replace my love of her Virgin River series, I'm feeling quite comfortable with this new locale and its characters. The drama of everyday life plays out beautifully in Thunder Point.</b>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16985985635171284853noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-738825886840708490.post-88043196324494623412013-06-25T09:16:00.001-07:002013-06-25T09:16:59.895-07:00Two of a Kind by Susan Mallery<b>Four years earlier, logistics expert Felicia Swift had a one-time fling with a Black Ops soldier. Now she's in Fool's Gold, helping her former crew set up the logistics for a bodyguard training school. Following this, she wants out. Felicia wants a normal life with a picket fenced house, a loving non-military husband and the requisite children. Imagine her shock when the low, sexy voice of a local disk jockey is none other than the man to whom she willingly lost her virginity in Thailand.
Gideon Boylan pretends to fit in to the small community while keeping his distance. Two years incarceration in a Taliban prison where his comrades were killed has damaged him to the point he cannot do more than stay alive. However, when he sees Felicia, all the hunger returns. He can't offer her anything but a place in his bed, but for now that will suffice. Felicia needs to learn how to be normal in order to fulfill her dream, and Gideon can help her. But can they date and not become involved?
Then fate throws a monkey wrench into their plans, and Felicia is the one who can help Gideon.
Great story by Fool's Gold author Susan Mallery. While I loved Justice (who is like a brother—a very protective brother—to Felicia), I enjoyed watching Gideon grow. Felicia and Gideon have an exciting chemistry and the banter between them is superb. Two of a Kind is just that, a story about two misfits striving for a semblance of normalcy. How they achieve it is part of the magic of storyteller Mallery. Two thumbs up for this one.</b>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16985985635171284853noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-738825886840708490.post-32302447428089329822013-06-20T20:39:00.000-07:002013-06-20T20:39:08.409-07:00An Exquisite Book<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcVPQHF_NmMgTtVSR-V9dqnIrUSZgL4PNdneergiXoOPFJPWK60mjbh_9OgZyVMjE2yqLE7J2J-2hq5GSAqwgkwB-OtXsp2OZd2tAPPY5V-aqJavZqjt1_aWjzO7NnI6sV0LTmYBw62AA/s1600/Gather.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcVPQHF_NmMgTtVSR-V9dqnIrUSZgL4PNdneergiXoOPFJPWK60mjbh_9OgZyVMjE2yqLE7J2J-2hq5GSAqwgkwB-OtXsp2OZd2tAPPY5V-aqJavZqjt1_aWjzO7NnI6sV0LTmYBw62AA/s320/Gather.jpg" /></a></div><p>
<b>Since receiving this lovely book for review, I've been savoring the photos as well as the recipes. Authors and foodies Bill Staley and Haley Mason have created a book that speaks to all the senses. Not only is it beautiful, but the recipes are wonderful and the advice for memorable party planning is as good as it gets. There are seventeen themed menus from Urban Escape to Tropical Getaway and Harvest Dinner with one hundred dishes perfect for parties and everyday meals. Each page is replete with exquisite photos, most of them taken by the authors.
You'll learn about timing so everything comes together in perfect order, also about table decorations that showcase your food. (After reading the book I did a major housecleaning, tossing my stained placemats and frayed napkins, then replacing them with Gather lookalikes.)
The first dish I tried was the General Tso's Chicken. While it was time-consuming to make, the flavor made up for any deficiency in that area. To be perfectly honest, I prefer wheat-free tamari to coconut aminos, which to me don't have the zingy flavor I expect. Also, I found the arrowroot to be semi-transparent and gloopy, sort of like wallpaper paste, not a pleasing mouth texture.
The Sweet and Tangy Venison Meatballs, however, were superb. Just the right amount of zing and sweetness to tame the slightly gamey flavor of the venison.
The baked salmon with lemon and capers makes a delectable statement whether for party or family dining. I haven't tried the chocolate chip biscotti, however, the photos alone are enough to set me drooling.
What I like most about Gather is the way Bill and Hayley walk the reader through each aspect of the planning and preparation of their menus so you'll know days ahead of the event exactly how to coordinate the logistics for a no-fail party.
Each recipe is easy to follow, and there are abundant tips such as adding medjool dates (rather than sugar) to cranberry sauce to take away the bitterness.
The menu events were photographed at the homes of friends so there's a fantastic array of glassware, place settings and decorations to inspire even a novice hostess.
This book gets two thumbs up for innovative design, superb layout and photos and truly delightful recipes.</b>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16985985635171284853noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-738825886840708490.post-7738358191319478452013-06-01T15:19:00.001-07:002013-06-01T15:19:34.698-07:00<c><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhomdC27VhRyoua2gJW-1FD8VsYuXYN6Z00Qsxss4XAydK5FX3zVY-QHJOwp1CmPCSfwoJr8cgRndS1NnObGEgnxSZiYIFKHnvMkV4N8xg24b2Uuf32NG1NpOpimpCCXPlL5y3tX0FhZc/s1600/pb_book_prodimg1__89290_zoom.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhomdC27VhRyoua2gJW-1FD8VsYuXYN6Z00Qsxss4XAydK5FX3zVY-QHJOwp1CmPCSfwoJr8cgRndS1NnObGEgnxSZiYIFKHnvMkV4N8xg24b2Uuf32NG1NpOpimpCCXPlL5y3tX0FhZc/s320/pb_book_prodimg1__89290_zoom.jpg" /></a></c><p>
<b>I learned about Mark Sisson and The Primal Blueprint from my son who had been turned onto a primal eating style by my daughter. I bought a copy and began reading with interest.
Mark Sisson, who also maintains a blog (Mark's Daily Apple), explains in humorous detail how you can reprogram your genes for better health and a longer life by adopting a hunter gatherer lifestyle. He backs up his statements with facts that show why a high fat, grain-free diet is best for optimal health. Readers will learn that by eliminating sugars and grains, an ideal weight can be achieved, inflammation can be reduced and a healthy immune system can be achieved. He offers, in addition, 10 Primal Blueprint lifestyle laws to tone your body, enjoy restful sleep and eliminate disease risk.
One aspect of these lifestyle laws is to slow down your cardio workouts: it isn't necessary to push through a hardcore workout when a few minutes a day will accomplish the same thing without the wear and tear on your body. (Mark details his own experience with over-exercising and shows that ideal fitness can be achieved without weekly treks to a gym.)
I found the writing style warm and engaging, the information practical and believable. Based on what I learned in Mark's book, I made some lifestyle changes last November and have reaped the benefits with weight loss (28 pounds and still losing), more energy, better sleep (I used to wake up at 2 a.m. and be unable to go back to sleep afterward.) My son also has followed the Primal Blueprint with a nearly 50 pound weight loss. We follow his exercise recommendations and consume grass-fed beef and lamb, pastured chickens, butter and cream, and fresh organic vegetables.
Mark talks the talk and walks the walk, and he's convinced this reviewer that the Primal lifestyle is the one to follow for optimal health. Be forewarned, reading this book will whet your appetite for more information. Soon you'll be adding Primal/Paleo recipes to your cooking, reading Mark's Daily Apple for inspiration and scouring the Web for more.</b> Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16985985635171284853noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-738825886840708490.post-22095327953269550982013-05-30T08:46:00.000-07:002013-05-30T08:46:17.675-07:00<a href="http://www.amazon.com/Digestive-Health-REAL-Food-Anti-Inflammatory/dp/0988717204/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1369928611&sr=1-1&keywords=digestive+health+with+real+food"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCJmXtpXshRmLF0Z308puapYTX_v4TCJsK_RgwhmPot3BYQL0uOkCmCkPK7e7lyb9D33WDp_cTUVWXE1rbI_w4UdKDLuZBXddldEYbOyOa_xMOG_TU9hqFdhFlUqsLZdPauWbXs_xh_P4/s1600/51A8GnJxusL._SY300_.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCJmXtpXshRmLF0Z308puapYTX_v4TCJsK_RgwhmPot3BYQL0uOkCmCkPK7e7lyb9D33WDp_cTUVWXE1rbI_w4UdKDLuZBXddldEYbOyOa_xMOG_TU9hqFdhFlUqsLZdPauWbXs_xh_P4/s320/51A8GnJxusL._SY300_.jpg" /></a></a><p>
I've been reading the newly released <b>Digestive Health with Real Food</b> by registered dietitian Aglaée Jacob, a copy which was sent to me for an honest review. Here's my take on it:
Firstly, it's a beautifully designed book, chock full of charts by the author detailing several digestive issues such as IBS, Crohn's disease, Celiac disease, GERD and more. Author Jacob explains the basics of digestion in the most complete manner I've ever read. Quotes such as this one by Hippocrates (“All diseases start in the gut”) and this one by Heather Morgan, M.S., N.L.C. (“Every time you eat or drink, you are either feeding disease or fighting it.”) explain the purpose of the book. Jacobs, who has dealt with digestive issues speaks from personal experience and strives to show the basics of digestion—what goes on in the gut—and what happens when digestion goes wrong. Charts showing food allergies and intolerances, a description of short-chain fermentable carbohydrates (FODMAPS)--what they are and why to avoid, along with descriptions of small intestine bacterial overgrowth (SIBO) and the foods that can cause a reaction are all shown in comprehensive yet simple-to-understand text and charts. Almost every digestive issue can be found with details of the why it occurs and how to minimize the problem through diet and restriction is given.
Chapter 4 is devoted to nourishing foods with tables to measure and monitor your own health. Here, Jacob explains the micro-nutrient balance between fats, carbohydrates and protein and gives a list of safe vegetables and which to buy organic. You will learn about probiotics, safe natural seasonings, and which fluids to enjoy and which ones to avoid. For many digestive issues, healing is accomplished by discovering the allergens, eliminating them from the diet and finally, slowly reintroducing them.
Ms. Jacob convinces the reader that a paleo diet is preferable to others to combat each digestive issue and then offers real food solutions. A troubleshooting chapter covers cravings, fatigue and what to do if the symptoms return. I was interested to see she gives recommendations for that nasty distress constipation, often a companion to other digestive issues. Her recommendations in a nutshell: eat more fat, be patient, avoid trigger foods, take probiotics, get enough water and exercise. And if these don't help, she offers info on managing stress, abdominal massage, taking magnesium, sipping ginger tea and more. In short, everything you can do to help yourself naturally is listed.
Chapter 10 gives some wonderful basic recipes for digestive health such as making ghee, bone broth, basic soups and stews, all-in-one salads and some snack foods. Each is accompanied by a full page, full color photo to get the digestive juices flowing. It's not a complete cookbook but offers enough recipes to fuel your body and your imagination. If you are eliminating foods, there's a section offering a weekly meal plan to reintroduce foods back into the diet.
In conclusion, this book should be the bible for anyone suffering from digestive disease who wants a step-by-step manual for a holistic therapy. Jacob did it using her methods and so can you. Highly recommended.
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16985985635171284853noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-738825886840708490.post-72393426807485172222013-05-22T18:36:00.000-07:002013-05-22T18:36:23.604-07:00Review - the 30 Day Guide to Paleo Cooking by Hayley Mason and Bill Staley<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4OZ6vSYca3dI4YypNvcOZuictNq4LeLBREWv48Am8zmgHqgrqxGRmLApjWDV81hgiI1cjUmD179idyuJrY6MTcXHGR1u97nxwbFmkLezyp_36fdv7qQJw3psEKLj038Bll5fZFzJX8s4/s1600/51McQkcVyvL._AA160_.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4OZ6vSYca3dI4YypNvcOZuictNq4LeLBREWv48Am8zmgHqgrqxGRmLApjWDV81hgiI1cjUmD179idyuJrY6MTcXHGR1u97nxwbFmkLezyp_36fdv7qQJw3psEKLj038Bll5fZFzJX8s4/s320/51McQkcVyvL._AA160_.jpg" /></a>
<p>
<b>I've been reading—and sampling recipes from—the 30 Day Guide to Paleo Cooking, the soon-to-be released third cookbook by Hayley Mason and Bill Staley. A copy was sent to me for an honest review, and I am delighted with the content and the overall presentation.
While this book is aimed more for the newcomer to Paleo nutrition with tear-out shopping lists and a 30 day menu, the recipes are a delightful extension of their innovative cuisine from Make it Paleo and Gather, with the exception that there are no desserts, appropriate for the 30-day detox period.
The book, a sturdy nearly 9 x 12 paperback printed on quality glossy paper, is divided into three parts: 1. What is the Paleo Diet? with testimonials, helpful ideas on what to eat and drink, growing your own food and meal-building; 2. the 30 Day Meal Plan showing basic ingredients and shopping lists for each week; and 3. the Recipes which are sectioned by type: Breakfast, Chophouse, Fish and Seafood, Ground Meat, Pasta, Salads, Sides and so on.
This is a beautiful book, well-written with timely information on the benefits of not only eating Paleo but of using high-quality ingredients. The recipes are wonderful. To date I have made the Kale Salad with Bacon and Fig Vinaigrette, Buttered Squash Ribbons, Roasted Rosemary Carrots with Onion (which worked perfectly with a Greek-style boneless leg of lamb) and the Smoky Roasted Turnips with Bacon. Each was a delight and had simple-to-follow directions. I am looking forward to testing the Garlic Ginger Chicken and the Italian Wedding Soup.
Even if you're well on your way to Paleo cooking, this book is worth every penny just for the recipes. The publication date is June 11th but you can pre-order now from Amazon. Highly Recommended.</b>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16985985635171284853noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-738825886840708490.post-6928127218933370262013-05-20T08:20:00.000-07:002013-05-20T08:21:06.313-07:00Home to Whiskey Creek - Review<div style="text-align: left;">
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<h4 style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: x-large;"><span style="color: red;"><b>A</b></span></span>delaide Davies returns to Whiskey Creek after a fifteen-year absence. The homecoming is not what she'd prefer, however, her aging grandmother—the woman who raised her--needs help. Addy, a trained chef, comes home to care for Milly and to help run her restaurant. But she's not happy to be back. One horrible night, fifteen years earlier, changed her life forever, and there are too many people she'd rather forget.
But someone hasn't forgotten Addy. Within days of her arrival, she is abducted from her bedroom at Milly's and dropped into a disused mine. By a stroke of luck, her cries for help are heard by cyclist Noah Rackham, out for an evening ride. Addy's grateful for the rescue, but Noah isn't someone she welcomes seeing either. Once the senior who captured her heart, he is also the twin brother of a boy who perpetrated an act of violation she cannot forget...and paid for it with his life.</h4>
<h4 style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: x-large;"><span style="color: red;">T</span></span>his fourth book in Brenda Novak's Whiskey Creek series starts off with a bang and doesn't let up. I took it to the gym and was so caught up by the end of page one that I managed 30 minutes on the elliptical trainer without even watching the time. I do not feel I'm giving away anything in the plot in the above paragraph because all is revealed in the first few pages. What happens to Addy, why she chose to remain silent over her assault, and the devastating effects bringing it to light would have on so many in the small Gold Rush town is the real plot of the story.
Novak, long on my automatic buy list, creates an intense study into the human character by showing how people are neither all bad or all good. While many of the characters from previous Whiskey Creek books make appearances and their stories are seamlessly woven in, this is about Addy and Noah, and their character journeys. This one will grab you and not let go, even after the last page.
I acquired this one from NetGalley for review. Ms. Novak's book releases July 30.
</h4>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16985985635171284853noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-738825886840708490.post-85942302428398189462012-11-30T15:20:00.001-08:002012-11-30T15:20:24.288-08:00Book Review: Against the OddsAgainst the Odds by Kat Martin
When Sabrina Eckhart's Uncle Walter leaves her his silver mine, the petite redhead's financial worries might just be over—that is, if she can stay alive and keep from losing her heart to P.I. and former Navy pilot Alex Justice.
Since the economic downturn, Sabrina's stockmarket brokership has gone south. She needs to learn what she can about the West Texas mine she's inherited, and Alex Justice, a good friend of her best bud Sage Cantrell is just the man to help her. Despite her initial assumption that the man is an aristocratic, womanizing snob, Rina has to admit tall, sculpted Alex is nothing short of gorgeous. He agrees to fly her to the mine, but things go suddenly wrong and they're forced to rely on wits to survive. As if that isn't bad enough, as soon as they are rescued, more accidents begin to happen. It's becoming increasingly obvious that someone doesn't want Sabrina to inherit the mine. Despite the dangers, Rina is tough and one determined lady, but can she stave off the attack on her heart?
Against the Odds is Kat Martin at her best, mixing suspense with a megadose of testosterone. Alex Justice has it in spades. He may not know what he wants to do with his life, but he certainly knows what he wants to do with Rina. If you like loads of sexual innuendos, hot and heavy, sweaty sex scenes and nonstop hormonal intensity, then this is the book for you. Alex is one sexy dude and he and Rina click on every level. Trouble is, he's not sure what he wants in life and Rina isn't about to have her heart stomped on.
Ms. Martin has action a plenty in this well-paced suspense; it kept me turning pages. The story's weaknesses were more a matter of taste for this reviewer. With regard to the sensuality, I feel less is more. I found the almost constant references to sex a bit tedious. The action and suspense, however, were topnotch, and after a couple of chapters where there was a bit too much repetition, the story really took off. Kudos to Ms. Martin.
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16985985635171284853noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-738825886840708490.post-52450370156967774592012-11-30T11:08:00.002-08:002012-11-30T11:08:59.761-08:00Brenda Novak has another winner in When Summer Comes.
Callie Vanetta has received the worst news a person could: she needs a liver transplant and without it she will die. She determines to spend her days—her last days if a donor cannot be found—at her late grandparents' farm.
When attractive drifter Levi McCloud happens on her front porch in the middle of the night, injured and needing help, she decides to put her fear aside and take him in. Levi needs to repair his motorcycle, but without funds, he strikes a bargain: in exchange for parts and lodging, Levi will help with the barn repairs. What begins as a tenuous friendship, soon becomes much more. Callie grows to care for Levi but realizes she has nothing to offer him since she may not live out the summer. She decides to keep her news from him.
Book three in Brenda Novak's Whiskey Creek series s the reader back to California Gold Rush town where she is reacquainted with many of the characters from books one and two. Nothing is overly repetitive and each protagonist is delightful. Novak mixes her astute knowledge of the human condition with expert storytelling to create a wonderful stand-alone book and an important adjunct to the series. Both Callie and Levi are realistic characters with desires and needs that work well with the story. Novak's skillful writing is always a pleasure to read. Two thumbs up for this one.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16985985635171284853noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-738825886840708490.post-49097144348057286312012-11-07T19:17:00.000-08:002012-11-07T19:17:02.250-08:00One of my "tags" for the Tag, You're It blog is Crimson Publishing author <a href="http://galenrose.com/tag-youre-it/">Galen Rose</a>. Check out her page and her WIP, a romance set on Maui.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16985985635171284853noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-738825886840708490.post-81649707456018245822012-10-09T19:56:00.000-07:002012-10-09T19:56:03.637-07:00Tag! You're It!My work-in-progress has been tagged by author Judy Alter. You can visit her at <a href="http://judys-stew.blogspot.com/2012/10/tag-youre-it.html">Judy's Stew</a> and read about her work in progress—as yet untitled. It's a cozy mystery and the third book in her series which she says is also enjoyed by many male readers. Now it's my turn to answer ten questions about my WIP, so bear with me:<p>
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<b><i>What is the title of your book?</i></b><p>
I'm currently calling it Indecent Proposal, however, that could change.<p>
<b><i>Where did the idea for the book come from?</i></b><p>
The book began as a romance, but there were several suspenseful plot points in it that I felt it would be a better story if written as a romantic suspense, so I'm rewriting early chapters to inject more suspense and drop in a few clues while still adhering to the building romance between the protagonists. The original idea was conceived after I had written a wine country story and enjoyed the research so much that I decided to set another wine country story in my own backyard. (The Santa Cruz mountains host a number of wineries since the micro-climates here are conducive to viticulture.<br><br>
<b><i>When genre does your book fall under?</i></b><br><br>
Indecent Proposal is my first venture into the area of romantic suspense. It's a sub-genre I enjoy reading. My goal is to capture both the suspense and danger of a suspense novel while keeping the love interest between my diamond-in-the-rough wine consolidator and a sheltered young French American woman who is thrust into managing her family's small mountain winery.<p>
<b><i>Which actors would you choose to play your characters in a movie rendition?</i></b><p>
That's a difficult question for me since I watch few films. Paul Brandon, the hero, comes from a Midwestern steel town and he's had a hard-scrabble life. He's not used to the finer things, but he very much hungers for them. Julia Marchant, on the other hand is the only daughter of French immigrants. She's had a sheltered life and a convent education. Her world is art—restoring European frescoes—until her father suddenly dies and she's called home to take over the family winery.<p>
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<b><i>What is the one-sentence synopsis of the book:</i></b><p>
Swiss-educated heiress inherits California winery and clashes with handsome, business-savvy partner bent on making his fortune, that is, if he can keep them both alive.<p>
<b><i>Will your book be self-published or represented by an agent?</i></b><p>
I am currently writing for an amazing small press—Turquoise Morning Press. They have published the last eight of my books plus a Christmas novella. I have been represented by an agent, however for these books I am unagented.<p>
<b><i>How long did it take you to write the first draft of the manuscript?</i></b><p>
I'm still working on the first draft. This story has undergone quite a change since its initial concept, so more study into what makes a romantic suspense work is required. Generally, a rough draft takes me about five months.<p>
<b><i>What other books would you compare this to within your genre?</i></b><p>
I'm not sure I have a book in mind that Indecent Proposal could be compared to, however, I very much admire the writing of Sharon Sala and Brenda Novak, and I hope my story will be reminiscent of stories by those two talented ladies.<p>
<b><i>Who or What inspired you to write this book?</i></b><p>
I've always been attracted to the courageous heroine who also has humility. A heroine who must overcome huge obstacles to reach her HEA. Julia is such a person. I felt I wanted to tell her story and show the push pull of her traditional ideas against Paul's drive to modernize the winery for bulk, blended wine. Both have much to gain and lose, and they also need to gain the cooperation and respect of one another to succeed. They have to learn to work together both for the winery to succeed and to outwit a villain who wants the winery at whatever cost.<p>
<b><i>What else about your book might pique the reader's interest?</i></b><p>
I think the setting—my own backyard—is fascinating, almost a character in itself. I hope the reader will relish the blue-collar Paul as he struggles to cope in a world with which he is unfamiliar. The Old World culture of the cadre of vintners on the mountain are as foreign to Paul as a trip through the Louvre.<p>
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That's a taste of my work in progress. Please check back to see how it's going. I will update from time to time. Meanwhile I'll be tagging five other authors to take part. I'll let you know later who they are, and I'll tell you each time one posts.<p>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16985985635171284853noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-738825886840708490.post-84692848685183678452012-08-05T08:05:00.001-07:002012-08-05T08:05:42.695-07:00PR executive Gail DeMarco unleashes a world of hurt to her company when she decides to no longer represent Simon O’Neal. The superstar’s off screen antics are troublesome and Gail’s tired of putting out the publicity fires caused by his drinking and loose morals. What she doesn’t count on is having Simon’s manager direct the bulk of her clients to a rival PR firm.
With Gail’s business about to go under, she must swallow her pride, apologize to Simon and hope he’ll be decent enough to stop the hemorrhaging. Just when she thinks she’s got the problem neutralized, her enterprising associate takes matters into his own hands and causes yet another firestorm...in the means of a leaked false rape charge against Simon. The only cure seems to be new publicity about a reformed Simon–a sober, moral man enjoying the bliss of a new marriage...to Gail. But can she keep up the pretense of a business arrangement that will terminate in two years without losing her own heart to the man she’s secretly lusted after for years?
Simon desperately want to regain the custody of his son and will do whatever it takes to make that happen. But a marriage in name only? Can he control his self-destructive urges long enough to create a new image?
When Lightning Strikes is the first in a new series by acclaimed writer Brenda Novak. Set in California’s Gold Country (not far from Novak’s home), Whiskey Creek is the embodiment of all that’s good about small town life, and it’s as far from Los Angeles and as foreign to Simon as a town can be. Never mind that Gail’s father and older brother and a host of friends have heard the stories about Simon and are determined to protect her from heartbreak and disappointment as best they can. However, something magical happens in the small community and Simon discovers a life that is refreshingly wholesome. He also discovers a few things about his new wife that surprise him.
I loved both the story and setting. Simon is a delicious hero and Gail a worthy heroine. The protagonists’ reservations about going through with the marriage seemed just a bit tedious, but they were well justified as the story picked up steam. I read WHEN LIGHTNING STRIKES in two sittings and was sad to see it end. Just a beautifully written, well-paced, delightful story as only the multi-talented Ms. Novak can create.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16985985635171284853noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-738825886840708490.post-62399990156007764512012-07-12T13:04:00.001-07:002012-07-12T13:04:06.891-07:00Book GiveawayI'm blogging today at Krista Ames's site and will be giving away a digital copy of my latest, LOVING LUKE, to one commenter.
http://www.apassionforromance.blogspot.com/2012/07/author-author-giveaway.htmlAnonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16985985635171284853noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-738825886840708490.post-47210792558333683912012-07-02T17:28:00.001-07:002012-07-02T17:28:48.698-07:00<b>Loving Luke, my newest contemporary romance is available at <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Loving-Luke-ebook/dp/B008GUMOBY/ref=sr_1_2?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1341274736&sr=1-2&keywords=Loving+Luke">Amazon</a>, Smashwords and elsewhere (paperback coming soon).
Set in Northern California it's about a compassionate hospital worker, a reclusive photographer who's a burn victim and one night with explosive consequences. Here's the blurb:
<i>Jo McGuigan’s job is on the line. She needs a photographer to teach her rehab class, but the only one available is an angry recluse who wants nothing to do with the hospital or its outreach program.
Luke Falconer’s photo career ends in a fiery auto crash that leaves him badly burned and crippled. Hating the world, he retreats to his cabin. But when an encounter with the intriguing social worker ends in a night of passion, their lives are changed forever. Jo is a spark to Luke’s flame, and where there’s smoke, there is often a raging inferno.</i>
And here's the cover.
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</b>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16985985635171284853noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-738825886840708490.post-61543628640832545402012-04-19T10:21:00.000-07:002012-04-19T10:21:35.662-07:00Risking It All review<b>"I read Suzanne Barrett's <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Risking-It-All-Suzanne-Barrett/dp/1622370007/ref=sr_1_3?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1334854975&sr=1-3">Risking It All</a> at an emotional "low" in my life, and wow! What good medicine!<br />
It's got that great repartee, Spencer Tracy-Katherine Hepburn style, that makes dialogue between characters sparkle, and it's wonderfully, charmingly funny. I very rarely find a book amusing, but this one had me laughing out loud on every page.<br />
<br />
The characters are unique and endearing, the setting is a gardener's (and old-house devotee's) dream, and the story is the kind that makes you really believe in romance and the beautiful part of love between a man and a woman.<br />
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Highly, highly recommended." </b>--Carolyn Woolston, AmazonAnonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16985985635171284853noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-738825886840708490.post-6086260784849200952012-04-05T07:20:00.000-07:002012-04-05T07:20:07.358-07:00New review for An Irish RogueWow. Just received this wonderful 4.5 review from Martha's Reviews.<br />
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<b><a href="http://www.amazon.com/An-Irish-Rogue-Suzanne-Barrett/dp/1937389731/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1333635504&sr=1-1">AN IRISH ROGUE</a></b><br />
<br />
<b>This is a fun, engaging romance with very likable characters.<br />
Declan is laying low until he can get a new job and renew his visa. He needs to hide from a vindictive ICE (immigration) agent. Declan’s cousin helps him get a job at an out of the way house doing carpentry renovations. That’s not his field but he figures he can handle it.<br />
<br />
Justine lives in the “fixer-upper” property with her eccentric aunt, Laverne, and her new age, vegan sister, Willow. Justine is the business mind of the family, running her bookstore in town and managing the household. She is practical, down to earth and comfortably looking forward to marrying her teacher boyfriend. At least she was comfortable until her aunt hired this distracting, handsome, Irish rogue to work on the house. Now she can’t seem to stop ogling those flexing muscles while he’s working.<br />
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Justine can’t seem to stop herself from comparing the rugged, intense Irishman to her easygoing, poetry reading, sort of average, James. But she and James have many things in common, don’t they? Irrepressibly she is drawn by the passion she experiences whenever she is near Declan.<br />
<br />
Declan is intrigued by Justine but he is woman shy since he was feels he was betrayed by his ex-wife, Maura. He can’t stop thinking about Justine yet he struggles to tell her how he feels. <br />
<br />
When the ICE agent locates Declan the only way to keep him in the States is if he gets a green card through marriage. Justine impulsively tells the agent they are married and they have to begin a pretense for the spying eyes. But when it comes time for the hearing will Justine step away from her well ordered life and risk her heart with Declan? Can Declan respond to Justine’s willingness to love and can he learn to express his feelings in order to keep her by his side?<br />
<br />
The writing is smooth, making this a quick and easy read. The characters are strong, independent and flawed; very real. The secondary characters are quirky and further the fun elements of the story. The Irish brogue and words adds a flair that I really like. The chemistry is immediate and visual but the romance builds slowly in a very nice progression of draw and resistance. Once again Ms. Barrett has provided a fine, entertaining romance. <br />
<br />
<br />
~~~~~~~<br />
Here are a few quotes showing the reactions of the protagonists when they first meet.<br />
Justine watching Declan:<br />
<br />
Something about the set of his shoulders, the easy way he moved, disturbed her. Deep inside a little flutter of unease rippled and then flared to a dazzling warmth. Location 116.<br />
Declan following Justine:<br />
<br />
He’d never given much thought to how women walked, but Justine Farris made him take notice. Her stride reminded him of a racehorse, each movement precise, yet fluid. Location 133.<br />
Declan's second thoughts:<br />
<br />
He offered her a wicked grin. Discovering the woman behind that cool business facade might prove the most intriguing challenge of all. Location 142.<br />
Thank you Ms. Barrett for providing this book to read and review. <br />
This story is set in California for my Where Are You Reading Challenge. I will also add it to my ARC challenge list.</b>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16985985635171284853noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-738825886840708490.post-68286996855039703542012-03-16T06:52:00.000-07:002012-03-16T06:52:52.331-07:00Risking it All<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKiH2FPiPk5-S1Ef0MLRXIhO0o9Elx0pTqIs_e90mPZi15E4RgAXlxJQtRkDbrnf5HyLluMmWcnEE8m1-u1MDGan6B2kMkrf2B9PUGpqmopqA3t1tBxnBo71e741X3ZhyGMdP9Or9_YJY/s1600/RiskingItAll_SBarrett_MD.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear:left; float:left;margin-right:1em; margin-bottom:1em"><img border="0" height="200" width="130" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKiH2FPiPk5-S1Ef0MLRXIhO0o9Elx0pTqIs_e90mPZi15E4RgAXlxJQtRkDbrnf5HyLluMmWcnEE8m1-u1MDGan6B2kMkrf2B9PUGpqmopqA3t1tBxnBo71e741X3ZhyGMdP9Or9_YJY/s200/RiskingItAll_SBarrett_MD.jpg" /></a></div><br />
<b>My newest book, <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Risking-It-All-ebook/dp/B007JQTEU0/ref=sr_1_12?s=digital-text&ie=UTF8&qid=1331905761&sr=1-12">Risking it All</a>, is now available. Set in Northern California, it's the story of a caretaker and a burned-out CEO.<br />
<br />
<center>A GARDEN OF EARTHLY DELIGHTS</center><br />
Pushed out of his own start-up company, Tom McKittrick is ready to lick his wounds in private at the rural family estate he’s inherited. But he isn’t prepared for his Garden of Eden to have a built-in Eve—a reclusive naturalist with a long-term lease on the caretaker’s cottage, a knack for gardening, and an incredibly beautiful face.<br />
<br />
<center>A PARADISE FOR TWO</center><br />
April Fairchild is not about to let Tom McKittrick order her out of the home that has been her cozy retreat from the world. But she has to feel sorry for him—the corporate bigwig is clearly out of his element in, well, the elements. April knows she can teach this hunky guy a thing or two about how to relax. All she has to do is sow the seeds of romance…and let nature take its course.</b>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16985985635171284853noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-738825886840708490.post-30701972169323468082012-03-16T06:46:00.000-07:002012-03-16T06:46:33.192-07:00Skeleton in a Dead Space<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFdNO7dnEVfSNG0T4ddA4YeXSnWgrzM-gQ5pBafEUtEu3Ss6jyaK3KzuaEb-vTBAee8WRP1VIZzshjYkSoY07H-tuCTzjQovpH3aFyODh0PHh8bRIuhiij5hmeu4mGYRw2-0K_5dadrag/s1600/Skeleton_final_cleanfinish+%25283%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear:left; float:left;margin-right:1em; margin-bottom:1em"><img border="0" height="200" width="130" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFdNO7dnEVfSNG0T4ddA4YeXSnWgrzM-gQ5pBafEUtEu3Ss6jyaK3KzuaEb-vTBAee8WRP1VIZzshjYkSoY07H-tuCTzjQovpH3aFyODh0PHh8bRIuhiij5hmeu4mGYRw2-0K_5dadrag/s200/Skeleton_final_cleanfinish+%25283%2529.jpg" /></a></div><br />
<b>Check out <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Skeleton-Space-OConnell-Mystery-ebook/dp/B005JKO41M/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1331905509&sr=8-2">Skeleton in a Dead Space</a>, a delightful cozy by Judy Alter.<br />
<br />
<br />
Here's a quote "Enjoy walking in Fort Worth as you follow a profusion of characters in this complicated tale. Wait, as did I, until you reach the very last pages to find the truth of the story. You likely won't figure it out earlier." —Margaret Waring</b>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16985985635171284853noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-738825886840708490.post-2186573806315433352012-02-19T13:24:00.000-08:002012-02-19T13:24:36.498-08:00New Cover!<b>I just got my cover for a March release and am loving it. Risking it All is a fun story with a Hepburn/Tracy flair set on a beautiful estate in Northern California. Flaxen-haired April Fairchild is the caretaker and burned-out CEO Tom McKittrick is the heir who has come to claim his inheritance. Look for this one in March.</b><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYboenu3g3lrElxbIp3A-6yWdQe-U6D0scoKVGIZzM3n9qZWLOdM8_eGFTylGMsQiYTEO2Rpoh-RNnKmpYOE21a10-pDbOMrS2oU_0JTKoyz-VdditXEUVQgezrPJj7ix-4l5u4KHWOIM/s1600/RiskingItAll_SBarrett_MD.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="200" width="130" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYboenu3g3lrElxbIp3A-6yWdQe-U6D0scoKVGIZzM3n9qZWLOdM8_eGFTylGMsQiYTEO2Rpoh-RNnKmpYOE21a10-pDbOMrS2oU_0JTKoyz-VdditXEUVQgezrPJj7ix-4l5u4KHWOIM/s200/RiskingItAll_SBarrett_MD.jpg" /></a></div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16985985635171284853noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-738825886840708490.post-85435451590494388652012-02-17T07:29:00.000-08:002012-02-17T07:29:11.257-08:00Paramour by Margaret Ethridge<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsqvq1xebfEuQUmP_wAiKXWKouAe7zCZqTuX6QfMbOi4MSLAJq_gTWU7Fki3K-akD1W8OsKvtqrhhgxr65z3YMyrLs78MVouctIhyphenhyphenoiJ7QWeLI_LRyIP86xE9Wy_H-nNCmXyd7cfUfJAk/s1600/Paramour_MargaretEthridge.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear:left; float:left;margin-right:1em; margin-bottom:1em"><img border="0" height="200" width="130" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsqvq1xebfEuQUmP_wAiKXWKouAe7zCZqTuX6QfMbOi4MSLAJq_gTWU7Fki3K-akD1W8OsKvtqrhhgxr65z3YMyrLs78MVouctIhyphenhyphenoiJ7QWeLI_LRyIP86xE9Wy_H-nNCmXyd7cfUfJAk/s200/Paramour_MargaretEthridge.jpg" /></a></div><br />
<b>I loved this book! Today <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Paramour-Margaret-Ethridge/dp/193581737X/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1329492381&sr=1-1">Paramour</a> by Margaret Ethridge is the featured Coven book from Turquoise Morning Press.<br />
Here's the blurb: Two men: one living, one dead, and both vying for her love. Camellia Stafford has never been alone in her room. For twenty years, she's been engaged in a fierce power struggle with her bedroom's previous tenant, Frank DeLuca, the ghost trapped in the light fixture above her bed. Caustic and cranky, Frank has one soft spot--Cam. Over the years, their feelings for one another have evolved from grudging friendship to an enduring love that burns white-hot until Frank puts his feelings for Cam on ice. When she suffers the loss of her beloved father, Cam returns home to say good-bye, and confront her feelings for Frank. She finds an unexpected shoulder to lean on in neighbor, Bradley Mitchum. Cam falls hard and fast for the handsome ad man's charming smile and passionate nature, but Brad's easy-going exterior masks a steely backbone tempered by adversity. Now Cam must choose-- Is her heart strong enough to determine which dream could lead to a love that will last a lifetime?</b>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16985985635171284853noreply@blogger.com1