June 2013 | Miki's Hope

Book Review & PB Giveaway - Broken Build - (Technothriller & Romantic Suspense) - Rachelle Ayala - 7/15

Sunday, June 30, 2013

This contest is officially ended--The winner, as picked at Random.org is #8

Melinda Dunne said... 8

I have followed on FB, Twitter, Bloglovin', GFC and tweeted.
June 30, 2013 at 8:33 PM

Congratulations Melinda! All you have to do now is reply to the email I will be sending you in just a few minutes with your full name and mailing address which I will forward to the author who will be sending you your book directly.



I actually won this book in a giveaway and decided to review it. I didn't know what to expect, especially since it was sent to me in e-book format which as you all know is not my favorite way of reading. Little did I know I would read it-sitting in front of my computer in one sitting-all 318 pages!!

This story had so many twists and turns-and a whole lot of coincidences-It incorporates unrequited love, heartbreak, corporate espionage, loving and not so loving people. It is also a lesson in trust which I will not soon forget. I will tell you it has a very happy ending even though I was not always positive it would. Do I think you should read this e-book? Unequivacabily -YES!


About the Book (from Amazon)


Bestselling Technothriller & Romantic Suspense

When a woman wrongs a man... can a man forgive and love?

Jennifer Cruz Jones thinks she can lay her past to rest. She's landed her dream job at Silicon Valley's hottest startup. Instead, she's caught in a web of blackmail, murder, and broken code.

Startup founder David Jewell refuses to dwell on his past. When a man last seen with Jennifer is found dead, he takes a closer look at her. With investors losing confidence and his company in jeopardy, he is forced to protect Jennifer when she is attacked.

Together, David and Jennifer must thwart a killer while rescuing a victim from their past. Love blossoms, but a damaging revelation points straight at Jennifer and threatens to tear them apart forever.

CHANCE FOR LOVE Series:
#1 Broken Build (Dave & Jen)
#2 Hidden Under Her Heart (Maryanne & Lucas)
#3 Knowing Vera (Zach & Vera) [coming Fall 2013]

This book can be purchased at Amazon

About the Author: (From Amazon Author Page)


Rachelle Ayala is the author of three romantic novels. Michal's Window is a powerful, emotional journey as lived through the eyes of Princess Michal, King David's first wife. Broken Build is a story of healing where a man learns to love and trust the woman who destroyed his life. Finally, Hidden Under Her Heart is a heartfelt love story mixed with controversy over difficult decisions.

Rachelle is currently working on a romantic suspense involving family secrets, disability, and an unsolved murder. She is a very happy woman and lives in California with her husband. She has three children and has taught violin and made mountain dulcimers.

Visit her at: http://rachelleayala.me or follow @AyalaRachelle on Twitter.
her Facebook Page http://www.facebook.com/RachelleAyalaWriter her blog http://www.rachelleayala.com
Her Amazon Author page http://www.amazon.com/Rachelle-Ayala/e/B007DXL5WY/ref=ntt_athr_dp_pel_pop_1

The author has graciously decided that one lucky person can win a PAPERBACK copy of this book for their very own!!

Mandatory: Go to Rachels Amazon authors page and in a comment tell me what other book you might like

Extra: Follow Rachelle Ayala on Facebook
Follow Rachelle Ayala on Twitter
Follow me on GFC (to the right)
Follow me on Bloglovin' (to the right)
Like this post
Tweet this post (once daily)





I won the copy of this e-book, I received nothing. All opinions expressed are my own honest opinions. For more information please check my Disclosure Statement. Our giveaways are in no way sponsored or promoted by Facebook.

Book Review - The Bloggers Survival Guide – Lexie Lane & Becky McNeer

Saturday, June 29, 2013

I really really wish this had been published, or maybe it was and I just didn’t know about it, when I first started blogging around 2 years ago!! I knew nothing and if it wasn’t for the person who helped me set up my site (Sheri Carpenter) I probably would not be blogging today! I drove poor Sheri crazy with questions—how she put up with me I will never know.


This how to manual takes you from the set-up to the how to make money from your blog. Below I have copied the Chapter headings only—under each of these headings you will find a wealth of information. I paid particular attention to Days 3, 6 and 7!! You do not need to read this at one time. I suggest you take it slowly (especially if you are a beginner). If you have been blogging awhile there is still information in here which can and will help you!! Need more information? Check out "The Social Media Panel, LLC."

The Blogger's Survival Guide

FOREWORD

INTRODUCTION

THE GIST OF IT ALL

DAY 1: THE SETUP

DAY 2: THE DESIGN

DAY 3: THE LEGAL STUFF

DAY 4: THE CONTENTS

DAY 5: THE TRAFFIC DRIVERS

DAY 6: THE MEASUREMENT OF TRAFFIC

DAY 7: THE MONEY MAKERS



This book can be purchased at Amazon


In Lexie Lane’s Own Words

Over the past 10 years, the social media boom has created a surge of optimism among the unemployed. The internet has provided opportunities as brands hop onto the social media bandwagon, using bloggers and social networks to expand their business. The entrepreneurs grow in numbers as more people realize the growth potential in online marketing.

Entrepreneur, Lexie Lane, once a corporate diva of the mortgage industry, ventured into social media without the realization of its potential. "I had always been a small fish in the big bad ocean," she said. Now she swims along sharks who aggressively fight their way into a position of influence, while helping small businesses gain their online presence.
Lane started her adventure by blogging and talking about her experiences as a new mother. From there, she was able to create a community for other parents to gather and talk about their own experiences. Eventually, the experiences turned into questions about blogging and the things that can be done to make money so that non-working, stay-at-home moms and dads can contribute to their family income.

After 2 years of research and answering as many questions as she could, Lane knew she had to help new bloggers find their way around the world of social media. Lane connected with fellow blogger, Becky McNeer, who used social media to grow her clientele through real estate.

Lane and McNeer created a map of every point and step they took to get to a level that is most appealing to audiences and brands. Personalization is what makes blogs stand out for many websites because it provides a sense of relief for the public to know that there is personalized customer relations behind it.

The Blogger's Survival Guide, published by Wayman Publishing, became the result of an entire year's fully researched work of steps, tricks, and tips that even the most novice blogger can understand. "It's not rocket science," Lane says. "There is creativity in everyone. After you understand the reason behind all the technical stuff, the sky's the limit with what you can do with social media."

The authors of The Blogger's Survival Guide are also the founders of "The Social Media Panel, LLC." and creator of voiceBoks.com, The Voice of Parenthood, where parent bloggers unite to talk about their every day challenges as parents.






I received a pdf copy of this book for review purposes. All opinions expressed are my own honest opinions. For more information please check my Disclosure Statement. Our giveaways are in no way sponsored or promoted by Facebook.

Book Review - The Plague Within – Lawrence W. Gold, M.D.

Friday, June 28, 2013

I did a review for a book for this same author a while age-“I Love My Doctor, But…” which attempted to help us all understand doctors and what we can expect or not expect from them (click here for that review). This time Dr. Gold has sent a psychological medical mystery novel which delves into a very current medical theme.

Gene therapy is a hot topic these days and no matter how you feel about it you will love this book. It does give you insights into the medical profession. It also shows how researchers can manipulate statistics when it comes to test results to prove their point!! Even though this book is fictitious-it could very easily happen given the right circumstances. This is another one of those page turners that you won’t be able to put down-------

From the Back of the Book:


Even in the age of the genome and sophisticated biotechnology, medical progress still moves at a snail’s pace. Seasoned investigators, matured by experience, accept the virtue of the too-slow scientific process, while the young, brought up in a world of instant gratification, barrel ahead never looking back to see the havoc in their wake.

So it is with Dr. Harmony Lane. In her single minded obsession to cure, she cuts corners and treats a desperately ill woman with an experimental viral vector provided by an unscrupulous research scientist. While he shares her impatience, he cares nothing for her humanistic sensibilities. She uses a similar vector on her patients with autoimmune diseases.

While the vector has remarkable curative properties, it soon becomes clear that it has devastating and lethal side effects.

The race is on to cure or at least control the vector before it kills again.

The novel proves, once again, that “The road to hell is paved with good intentions”.

This book can be purchased at Amazon and Barnes & Nobel


About the Author


Dr. Gold practiced internal medicine and nephrology (diseases of the kidney) in Berkeley, California for twenty-three years. He was an active participant in the hospital’s quality assurance program. Dr. Gold served as chief of the department of internal medical and family practice.

After retiring, Dr. Gold set sail with his wife, Doris and their cat, Funina. They cruised Mexico, Central America, and the Caribbean on a Sparkman and Sparkman cutter. They sold the sailboat and cruised Florida, the Bahamas, the United States East Coast and Canada on a Nordic Tug.

They are back on land in spectacular Grass Valley, California.

You can visit Dr. Gold here: http://www.lawrencegoldmd.com
or on his blog where you can see the other books (NOVELS) he's written: http://drgoldsfiction.blogspot.com/




I received a PB version of this book for review purposes. All opinions expressed are my own honest opinions. For more information please check my Disclosure Statement. Our giveaways are in no way sponsored or promoted by Facebook.

Diabetes – What NOT to Eat

Thursday, June 27, 2013

I have been pretty good at sticking to a diabetic diet—of course being human I slip once in a while. I went out with my Mom on Saturday for our weekly shopping excursion and of course she got hungry (nothing new there) and decided that we should eat at a Chinese Buffet place that she had actually liked once. Okay—I had my doubts—but who is going to argue with Mom? And I hadn’t been to a Chinese Buffet in a very long time-----This particular buffet has a lot of American type dishes as well as Chinese which is why my Mom liked it.


So, I pile up my plate with Muscles, Shrimp (both cooked and raw), Crab, stuffed clams, Mushrooms, Green beans, a spring roll, an egg roll and boneless spare ribs—well not piled it up really—but I did go back for seconds! Then I hit the desserts—Jello, Chocolate pudding, 1 macaroon and 1 almond cookie. Oh—I ordered iced tea as a beverage. My Mom was much better then I was—chicken (a couple of types) some lo mein, green beans and some other veggie-for dessert she had a plate full of fruit.

The trouble began with the iced tea. I proceeded to put in 1 sweet n low—and took a long drink—tasted a bit sweet but then I like sweet. My Mom took one sip and started complaining—turns out it was SWEET TEA—she had it switched to diet Coke—I kept drinking the tea. Meanwhile it became apparent to me that almost everything was in some kind of sauce-other then the cold shrimp. Now sauces (which I normally do not like anyway) generally are high in sugar. I also have a bad gallbladder which is why I normally stay away from fried foods (spring roll, egg roll). By the time I got up to leave that restaurant-I was not feeling too well. I was experiencing hot then cold shivers, my stomach was killing me, I could barely stand up and I certainly was not going to tell my Mom! Turns out she was not feeling all that well either. But since Mom still had things we had to accomplish off I drove. My last stop was a CVS to pick up some seltzer for her. I really thought I was going to pass out while waiting to pay—the pain was excruciating and I was dizzy!!


Well, I got her home then got myself home. Needless to say I had nothing to eat last night. I knew my sugar was high as a kite and suspected my gallbladder was also giving me trouble. I probably should have taken a metformin but didn’t. I could barely lie down and it was impossible to sit at my computer—I chewed up 7 Tums (more sugar) and 2 Gas-x (more sugar)—I finally got to sleep. It took until just a little while ago (almost 15 hours) for my sugar to go down and for my gallbladder to relax and for me to feel semi human.

Moral of this tale—if you are going to eat out—be VERY careful what you put on your plate-stay away from sauces unless you make them-and ASK about the iced tea—you want it UNSWEETENED!!




All opinions expressed are my own honest opinions. For more information please check my Disclosure Statement. Our giveaways are in no way sponsored or promoted by Facebook.

And the winners of Brenda Jackson's "A Brother's Honor are....

Wednesday, June 26, 2013

This contest is officially ended--out of 46 entries the two winners picked at Random.org are:

Meghan said... 22

I would like to read "Bachelor Unclaimed." Sounds great!
June 6, 2013 at 8:07 PM

and

Mary Bearden said... 35
Signed up for emails
June 15, 2013 at 3:56 AM

Congratulations both of you! I know you are going to love reading Brenda Jackson's "A Brother's Honor". All you have to do is reply to the email I will be sending each of you in a few minutes within 48 hours with your full name and mailing address and I will forward it on so that a brand new copy can be sent direct to each of you.




All opinions expressed are my own honest opinions. For more information please check my Disclosure Statement. Our giveaways are in no way sponsored or promoted by Facebook.

Review- Noxicare-Naural Pain Relief Cream-It Works!!



I received Noxicare, a natural pain relief product very quickly and I was never so happy to receive a product. I have no idea what is actually wrong with my right arm from the shoulder down to my elbow but what I do know is I can barely move it without experiencing extreme pain. I can not stretch that arm out or behind me (imagine my trouble getting dressed!) or lift it very high. Typing has not been easy!! Thus, after I ripped open the USPS box I immediately removed the 3.5 fl oz tube--opened it and applied it. I did feel some relief of the pain. Then and only then did I look at what else was in the package--they sent me a tee shirt, which I did not expect, with the Noxicare logo which I would definitely wear however they sent me a small and I wear a large or an XL. As most of you already know I can't get pics from my camera into my computer----and they don't have a pic of this really well made tee on their website. I also read the brochure which was enclosed, as well as browsing the Noxicare website, where they have lots of interesting information and more about this amazing pain relief cream. I suggest you go browse around as well.

First the ingredients which are all natural and thankfully does not contain PABA (which I happen to be allergic to). I was happy to see Alpha Lipoic Acid as one of the ingredients as I have been taking that for many years and it really does do wonders for many ailments as well as making other ingredients work better!

This is what they say about Noxicare:

Noxicare™ is the first product to combine 7 of the world's most potent natural pain relievers to effectively alleviate inflammation, muscle aches and nerve pain.


Ingredients

Turmeric Extract: one of the powerful healers found in nature, recognized for its anti-inflammatory properties.

Willow Bark Extract: has been used to treat pain and inflammation since the time of Ancient Egypt and Greece.

Ginger Extract: helps alleviate muscle strains, arthritis and rheumatism, and is a catalyst for improving the effectiveness of other herbs.

Holy Basil Extract: properties include anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antibacterial and antiviral.

Rosemary Extract: has served a variety of purposes including topical use for joint or musculoskeletal pain.

Alpha Lipoic Acids: antioxidants used to treating diabetic neuropathy and increasing blood flow to the nerves.

Boswellia Extract: an anti-inflammatory used to treat arthritis and joint pain.



Now here is what they say it can be used for:

Uses

Available as a topical cream or capsules, Noxicare™ uses all natural ingredients to provide fast, effective, long-lasting pain relief for:

Acute and chronic inflammation: your body's immune response to irritation or other injuries with features like redness, swelling, warmth and pain.

Muscle aches: Muscle aches can be acute (as a result of athletic injury) or chronic and involve ligaments, tendons, bones and organs.

Nerve pain: Painful nerve endings in the layers of your skin can cause burning, throbbing and stinging.

Noxicare™ has been especially helpful for relieving pain of those suffering from arthritis, athletic injuries, carpal tunnel syndrome, neuropathy pain associated with diabetes, musculoskeletal disorders, tension headaches.



I have applied this several times already and I can definitely feel a cessation of the extreme pain--Thank heavens!! I can definitely attest to the fact that what they say is true! It is odorless-Baby did sniff it but whatever scent there is did not seem to bother her and I don't smell anything at all. It is non greasy. I did find that if you wash your hands there is a residue but it washes off very easily. Yes, it is fast acting-but I realize that it might take a while for all the pain to be alleviated. Long-lasting--YES--I applied it before I went to bed-it was still working in the morning. I will take their word for it that it is Paraben free-hey I didn't break out in hives from Noxicare which does happen if anything with Paraben is applied to my skin!

You can order you own tube of Noxicare or the pill form if you wish at their website. And there is a retail locator if you prefer to buy it in a store.
LIKE Noxicare on Facebook
FOLLOW Noxicare on Twitter



The above does not constitute medical advice but is my experience with this product and/or what the makers of this "natural" product state about the uses and what each ingredient is supposed to accomplish.




I received one or more of the products mentioned above for free using Tomoson.com. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. All opinions expressed are my own honest opinions. For more information please check my Disclosure Statement. Our giveaways are in no way sponsored or promoted by Facebook.

Review- nuNAAT Hair Care Products

Tuesday, June 25, 2013

I have thin, curly, wavy and fly away hair. It used to be thick, curly, wavy and flyaway—the effects of age which I can do nothing about unfortunately. I would really like my hair thin (unfortunately age turned it thin-would love it to be thick again), straight, some waves would be okay-- and NOT flyaway!!!! The slightest breeze and my hair is all over the place. So when I started seeing reviews for nuNAAT Hair Care Products I decided to check out their website. I liked what I saw. And I loved the ingredient list-all natural-no chemicals! Somewhere I saw where I could sign up to try this product so I did and was pleasantly surprised when I was accepted to receive the entire nuNAAT Treatment Curly Hair with Cupuaçu & Keratin line which includes a full size shampoo, a full size rinse out conditioner, a full size stay in conditioner and the full size hair mask.


Immediately upon receiving the products I raced to wash my hair. That first time I only used the shampoo and the rinse out conditioner. AND I used too much of both (I recently had my hair cut short)!! You really only need about the size of a quarter for the shampoo and the size of a dime for the conditioner—the shampoo lathers up really well and the conditioner is easily spread throughout your hair. All I do is brush my hair after washing—no styling or setting for me. I went out the next day—still flyaway—but a bit less curly. Hum----

Next go round I did the same as the first time but after I had rinsed out both the shampoo and conditioner I put the stay in conditioner in my hair as well (about a dimes worth)-then I brushed it. YEAH—my hair was still slightly wavy but not curly and MUCH less fly away!! My hair also tends to be dry so I really can not wash it more then once a week. I have yet to use the mask but plan on attempting it next go around! They say not to use it too often-maybe once or twice a month.


All in all I am more then satisfied with the nuNAAT products I received and have a feeling that after I get the hang of how much of each to use and when I am going to love it. They have a couple of other products I may just try out as well--The Ultra Keratin Touch and the NuNAAT creams.


You can find out more about NAAT products by going in to their website, their Facebook page, their Twitter page, and their YouTube page to see which of their products would be the right fit for your hair.






I received the above mentioned products for review purposes. All opinions expressed are my own honest opinions. For more information please check my Disclosure Statement. Our giveaways are in no way sponsored or promoted by Facebook.

Book Review - Sharing Mom's Madhouse - Sharon Ruggieri

Monday, June 24, 2013

Sharon is a blogger, just like you and I--except she really knows how to write and make you laugh even as you cringe at some of the antics her larger then life family (and the extras that show up on occasion) pulls. I actually purchased this book in e-book format (hey-how could I not) and read it on my computer Kindle and still enjoyed it--really enjoyed it!! With a family this zany is it any wonder that Sharon has developed a sense of humor--I want you to go and buy a copy of her book AND go to her blog and read some of her articles as well--you just may find yourself drying your eyes from tears of laughter!



About the book: (from Amazon)

A humorous look at the real life drama of a full-time SAHM with a husband, six kids, a dog, a cat, never ending laundry and a clogged toilet

This book can be purchased at Amazon and Barnes and Noble


About the Author: (in her own words)


I'm a full time SAHM to six kids. I was born and raised in Phoenix and am still stuck living in the desert because I met a guy here in college, married him and had six kids.

I quit working in 2005 when we had our 5th child,(I got tired of waddling up and down the stairs after 10 years and five pregnancies) and I've never looked back. Well, every now and then I look back wistfully at the paychecks whenever Macy's is having a shoe sale.

I sort of fell into writing when my friends suggested I write a book after reading about my kids on facebook. So...I wrote a blog for two years.

Why make money with a book when I can blog for free. Right?

Yeah, well...I finally gave in to temptation and Sharing Moms Madhouse is the first of many book to come.

I hope...

Find Sharon on Facebook:
Sharon's Blog


I received no compensation what so ever for this post-I did receive a lot of laughs!! All opinions expressed are my own honest opinions. For more information please check my Disclosure Statement. Our giveaways are in no way sponsored or promoted by Facebook.

Book Review - Thick Fog in Pacheco Pass - R.P. McCabe

Saturday, June 22, 2013



This is definitely one of those books that will keep you guessing until the very end! The main character, Charlie Caldwell, is a returning Vietnam Vet who went through a terrible time, which he can not get out of his head--nor can he talk about it. At that time Vets were not always treated the way they should have been and most, to this day, have not recovered from what that war entailed. He goes home to a place for which he has no real affection only to find out that the girl who has ruined him for all others has been murdered.

As he tries to unravel this murder he meets a woman who has a little girl. He immediately knows he likes her-but kind of holds back-for a while. He also meets up with an honest and caring attorney who worries about all involved-not just his client. And slowly but surely the killer instincts taught him by the army begin to appear, but only when someone he likes is threatened.

This is the story primarily of a man trying to get his life or a life back after the horrors of war and the remaining problems of his childhood. I truly loved this novel and defy you to guess "Who really Murdered Miranda Costa?"


From the back of the book:

...Miranda DeCosta has been murdered. Death, as Charlie Caldwell has so cruelly learned, cheats one out of any opportunity to set life on the correct path.

Charlie has come to devinia, the tiny central California town where he grew up, bent on confronting Miranda over the event that defined and destroyed every romantic relationship he has ever entertained.

Questions about Miranda's unraveling life and violent murder gradually invade Charlie's consciousness. Bits and pieces of seemingly insignificant information begin to nag at him causing him to question whether the man locked behind bars and charged with her murder is, on fact, the real killer.

Become enthralled while Charlie takes his first baby-steps towards reinventing himself, solves the question of who really murdered Miranda DeCosta and discovers another unforgettable woman who will reshape his life. Thick Fog on Pacheco will take you where Fifty Shades of Grey did not. (MY Note: This is nothing like 50 Shades-the love scenes are tender and well written about a couple obviously in love!)

This book can be purchased at Amazon and Barnes & Noble




About the author: (from PR material)



Mr. McCabe’s 2012 debut novel, Betrayed, attracted both national and international attention rising in the U.S. to #8 in Amazon’s promotional Mystery – Thriller category and making it to #40 on Amazon’s Mystery, Thriller & Suspense list in Germany for English language books, garnering strong reviews and solid reader support. Mr. McCabe has been interviewed on nationally syndicated radio shows including WGCV radio from Washington, D.C., and WCIT from Lima, Ohio. Feature articles about Mr. McCabe have appeared in major publications such as AOL Finance, Kiplinger Review, Business Insider Magazine.

R.P. McCabes Website




I received a PB edition of this book for review purposes. All opinions expressed are my own honest opinions. For more information please check my Disclosure Statement. Our giveaways are in no way sponsored or promoted by Facebook.

8 Pack of Almondina Cookies Giveaway & Review-US ONLY-Ends 7/19

Friday, June 21, 2013

This contest is officially ended. Out of 130 comments the number picked at Random.org is #25

JC said... 25

Like Almondina on Facebook
June 21, 2013 at 1:54 PM

Congratulations! Now all the winner has to do is reply to the email I will be sending in just a few minutes within 48 hours with her full name and mailing address so that I can forward to the company who will be shipping the 8 packages of Almondina direct.


Almondina – A Cookie Lover’s Delight!

(picture from the Almondina website-this is not the package I received)


As I sit here dunking the Chocolate Cherry Almondina cookies into my coffee-I am in ecstasy. These thin cracker-like cookies are perfect for dunking! Sturdy enough for a long dunk-and still have a crunch. The pieces of cherries make for a sweet treat. I was sent 8 packages of these cookies and each one I try is just as good or better then the one before. Of course this will depend on your taste buds.

Made from an old family recipe that thankfully contains no cholesterol, no added fat, salt, or preservatives you don’t have to dunk these to enjoy. I actually opened the Cinnaroma package first and felt no desire to dunk! It is definitely my favorite—the smell and taste of cinnamon was wonderful—that package was finished very quickly. I love cinnamon and the pieces of raisin made it taste like cinnamon sugar. Lots of pieces of almonds as well. There are 16 in each package. Each little rectangle is approx 30 calories no matter which variety you buy which isn’t bad. The carbohydrate and sugar counts are a bit high for a diabetic but if you are real careful-------and try to eat just one or two (pretty hard I admit!)----The pieces of almonds-found in each variety are a source of protein.

(picture from the Almondina website)

So far the original Almondina Biscuits are my second favorite (after the Cinnaroma)—these are the ones you generally see on the store shelves, as my Mother informed me as she decided since I was sent two packages of the originals—I should give her one package. It seems she has purchased and loves Almondina biscuits! (Yes, I did give her a package of the original flavor). She is attempting to get me to give her one more of the packages! These little cookies are chock full of almonds and raisins.

The other varieties I was sent are: Choconut, Seseme, and Gingerspice. I am trying to be careful and only eat 2 pieces at a time so have not taste tested them yet but can see that they are also chock full of almonds and the sweetness will come from bits of raisins or another fruit. They have a bunch of other varieties like Pumpkin Spice (which I may end up ordering) and Yogurt Dipped Almondina Brantreats. They also have gift packs which you can purchase. And of course you can find them in stores-just use their store finder in their website.

The great folks at Almondina have agreed to send one lucky winner the same variety I was sent!

To recap what I received:

2 of the Original
1 of the Choconut
1 of the Seseme
1 of the Gingerspice
1 of the Cinnaroma
1 of the Chocolate Cherry

For a chance at being the one lucky winner (US entrants only please) here is what you have to do: (please remember to put your email in each comment you make!!)

Mandatory: In a comment tell me which other Almondina biscuit you would like to try

Extra: Follow Almondina on Twitter
Like or friend Almondina on Facebook
Follow me on GFC (to the right)
Sign up for my RSS BlogLovin (to the right)
Like and share this post
Tweet this post (once daily)







I received 8 delectable packages of these cookies for review purposes. All opinions expressed are my own honest opinions. For more information please check my Disclosure Statement. Our giveaways are in no way sponsored or promoted by Facebook.

$25 PayPal-Midsummer's Eve Giveaway Hop-WW-Ends 6/30

Thursday, June 20, 2013

This contest is officially ended! Out of 542 comments (thank you everyone) the number picked at Random.org as the winner of the $25.00 PayPal for the Midsummer's Eve Giveaway at Miki's Hope is number 333

Andrea said... 133

Follow on GFC - Andrea Williams

June 24, 2013 at 10:06 PM

Congratulations Andrea!! All you have to do now is reply to the email I am going to send you in a few minutes with your paypal email and I will send you the $25.00!!


This hop is a spontaneous one started just yesterday by I Am a Reader Not a Writer! I decided-what the heck--a surprise is always good and keeps us on our toes!

Anyone WW can enter this one at Miki's Hope--it is World Wide (as long as you have a PayPal account)

$25 PayPal and I am going to make this an easy one --after you enter my giveaway please hop along to the other participating blogs found in the linky list below and see what they have to offer.

Mandatory: In a comment type in your name and email address

Extra: Follow me on GFC (to the right)
Sign up for my RSS on Blog Lovin (to the right)
Like this post
tweet this post (only once)

Good Luck!!!





All opinions expressed are my own honest opinions. For more information please check my Disclosure Statement. Our giveaways are in no way sponsored or promoted by Facebook.

$25 Amazon GC or PP PLUS Gift Basket-US Only-Ends 6/20


About the Book:


In 1980, Kyle Montgomery’s life was seemingly perfect. Heavily recruited by Force Recon fresh from the Naval Academy, he’d been working black ops for the Marine Corps for six years and was on the cusp of being promoted to Major. He was on the fast track to bigger and better things, had all the right people vetting him, and he'd married the woman of his dreams and was exploring a lifestyle which could have ended his career. With the Iranian embassy under siege and the Middle East in turmoil, Kyle was sent on a mission which would change the course of his life forever.

Returning home after three months of being invisible, Kyle finds his wife has been murdered by the very people he'd been sent to protect. And instead of the government retaliating, they hand him his walking papers with the agreement they’ll never speak of the events again. It's like Kyle never existed. His wife never existed. And the people who maimed and tortured her never existed.

Resigned to never again walk that path, Kyle opens the first Steele Image club with the thought of providing a safe haven for others like him, those who were invisible to the public and most of the government. Those who had eclectic sexual tastes. Those who would later become his allies. And his enemies. And both will drive him back to the place he’d thought he’d let go of forever to vindicate his love…

Love Vindicated Book Blast Page:

http://www.pumpupyourbook.com/2013/03/30/pump-up-your-book-presents-lila-munros-love-vindicated-book-blast-%E2%80%93-win-25-amazon-gcpaypal-cash-gift-basket/


This book can be purchased at: AMAZON | ALL ROMANCE EBOOKS

About the Author:


Lila Munro currently resides on the coast of North Carolina with her husband and their two four-legged kids. She’s a military wife with an empty nest and takes much of her inspiration for her heroes from the marines she’s lived around for the past fifteen years. Coining the term realmantica, she strives to produce quality romance in a realistic setting. Her genre of choice is contemporary romance that spans everything from the sensual softer read to BDSM and ménage. When she’s not writing, she enjoys reading everything she can get her hands on, trips to the museum and aquarium, taking field research trips, and soaking up the sun on the nearby beaches. Her works include The Executive Officer’s Wife, Bound By Trust, Three for Keeps, the Force Recon series, the Slower Lower series, the Identity series, and the Private Collection. Currently she is working on two new series set to release summer of 2013, the At Your Service line and the Steele Image line. She’s a member in good standing of RWA. Ms. Munro loves to hear from her readers and can be contacted at lilasromance@gmail.com .

Her latest book is the BDSM contemporary romance, Love Vindicated.

Visit her website at www.lilamunro.com.

FACEBOOK | TWITTER


And now for the GIVEAWAY!! Fill out the Rafflecopter form below for your chance to win a $25 Amazon Gift Card/Paypal Cash + Gift Basket including her Slower & Lower seies of 3 books plus a copy of Executive Officer’s Wife!!
(Ends June 21, 2013)

a Rafflecopter giveaway







This is a book spotlight guest post. I was not paid nor did I receive a book to review for this post. I did receive a link in the rafflecopter form for my participation. For more information please check my Disclosure Statement. Our giveaways are in no way sponsored or promoted by Facebook.

Kindle Fire HD GA-US-Book Spotlight/Trailer-Vampire Vic-Harris Gray-7/26

Wednesday, June 19, 2013


ABOUT THE BOOK

Would you give up donuts…for blood?

Fat, balding accountant Victor Thetherson hoped becoming a vampire would turn his life around. But Victor can’t stomach confrontation and gets queasy at the sight of blood. Instead he gets it from the blood bank, diluted in bloody Bloody Marys. The result: a vampire who doesn’t bite, and a man who gets no respect.

Victor’s slacking staff mockingly calls him Vampire Vic. Victor’s boss amuses his wife by intimidating Victor on video. His ex makes him stay out late while she entertains boyfriends in the house she insists they continue to share. One night it finally boils over, and Victor bites someone. And then another…and very soon, he’s no longer visiting the blood bank.

Muscle replaces fat, and his comb-forward widow’s peak takes root. Victor basks in new found attention and respect, at the office and at home. But real vampires get hunted, and as the transformation reaches the tipping point, Victor must decide how much he’s willing to sacrifice for the power of the vampire.


This book can be purchased at Amazon:

ABOUT THE AUTHOR


Harris Gray finish their third pint and mull over their next writing project, simultaneously deciding on a vampire book. Because the women in their lives eat up every vampire story on the shelves. And for the gratuitous T&A. But hunky, smoldering vampires are beyond their grasp; and dammit, T&A should mean something. Deciding to write what they know, Harris Gray return to their wheelhouse: An aging, uncomfortable man, not so happy with his lot in life. A man bitten by a vampire, unsure what to do with his new…skill set. Vampire Vic – VV – is born. Perfect.

His latest book is Vampire Vic

WEBSITE | FACEBOOK | TWITTER


WATCH THE TRAILER!

Pump Up Your Book and Harris Gray are teaming up to give you a chance to win a new Kindle Fire HD! Here's how it works:
Each person will enter this giveaway by liking, following, subscribing and tweeting about this giveaway through the Rafflecopter form placed on blogs throughout the tour. This promotion will run from May 6 - July 26. The winner will be chosen randomly by Rafflecopter, contacted by email and announced on July 27, 2013. a Rafflecopter giveaway

Pump Up Your Book

All opinions expressed are from Pump Up Your Book. I received a twitter listing on the Rafflecopter. For more information please check my Disclosure Statement. Our giveaways are in no way sponsored or promoted by Facebook.

Fruit Salad Trees - Who Knew



I was scouring the internet the other day looking for inspiration and came across something that really interested me, Fruit Salad Trees. Yes, you read that correctly-Trees that bear more then one kind of fruit. Actually, once I thought about it this made perfect sense. Many times while walking through or driving through wooded areas I saw trees that were sporting both Oak and Maple leaves. It is through the process of one type of tree somehow NATURALLY grafting itself onto another tree that this can occur. So why did I never think of this in terms of fruit trees. Of course this grafting is done purposely by whoever is selling them—but what a great idea with the cost of fresh fruit rising with each day. And like I said, this process does occur naturally in nature.

This would be the perfect solution to those of you out there who have small backyards—imagine having oranges and lemons on the same tree that you could then harvest for yourself, or perhaps pears and apples. Yes, they do sell these kinds of trees—even in the Bonsai variety if you prefer or have less space! Of course you do have to live in the correct climate for the particular combination. There are many sites that sell these-one even sells one for a backyard that has 4 types of fruit. Now that would make one delicious fruit salad!

My apartment tends to be dry and hot—not a great environment for bonsai tree growing-but I am so tempted (maybe I would not kill this?) I would also have to make sure that the leaves were not toxic to Baby (the cat that would definitely either eat the leaves-or knock it over in a fit of temper). Hum, my Mom may not be going to Florida this winter (or so she says)—would be a great gift for her-she is really good at making things grow and does not have a cat! Then I could grab some of the fruit off her tree!!



All opinions expressed are my own honest opinions. For more information please check my Disclosure Statement. Our giveaways are in no way sponsored or promoted by Facebook.

Book Review - Lightpoints – Peter Kassan

Tuesday, June 18, 2013

There are good people and there are not so good people and there are evil people. Amanda really didn’t notice the differences until she was attacked in a NYC subway on her way home one day and was murdered-until she was revived! She had an Out of Body experience and a Near Death Experience which left her with a very unusual perception and an ability which well--. She could sense points of light all around her emanating from all human beings. When her life resumes with her artist husband it takes a bit of getting used to. She meets up with others and happily finds that there are others just like her. It is what they do or don’t do with this new found ability (not telling you what it is or it will spoil the book) that makes for very interesting reading! I will say this—I LOVED the ending!!!!!!


From the back of the book:

What if you suddenly discovered you had a sense—and powers—that almost no one else in the world did?

When Amanda Lindner Nichols, a 24-year-old graphic artist living with her husband in Queens, New York, is revived from a near-death experience, she discovers she perceives everyone around her as points of light—but not with her eyes. She soon learns she can not only perceive the life energy of others, but she can give and take it. With the help of others like her, she brings her husband, Chris, to the brink of death and back to bestow on him the same remarkable faculty, and they’re the happiest they’ve been.

But not for long. All over the world, people who’ve been revived from their own near-death-experience at just the right moment, discover themselves with these same unusual powers. They find ways to use them—some for good and some for evil. When Amanda and Chris encounter a ruthless group of gangsters with the same faculty, tragedy follows—and Amanda faces the greatest challenge of her life.

This book can be purchased at Amazon and Barnes & Noble and wherever fine books are sold!

About the Author:


You can read all about Peter Kassan, and his book at his website http://peterkassan.com/
Peter is also a Goodreads author and can be found there http://www.goodreads.com/book/show/17618415-lightpoints



I received a PB copy of this book for review purposes. All opinions expressed are my own honest opinions. For more information please check my Disclosure Statement. Our giveaways are in no way sponsored or promoted by Facebook.

And the winner of the $25 PP in the Schools Out Giveaway is....

Monday, June 17, 2013

This contest is officially closed at Miki's Hope. Out of 1044 comments (WOW-Thank you everyone!) the number generated at Random.org and the winner of the $25.00 PayPal is #108

Amanda Rauch said... 108

I subscribe to your emails
June 3, 2013 at 11:37 AM

Congratulations Amanda!! You won the $25.00 PayPal at the School's Out Giveaway Hop!! Now all you have to do is reply to the email I will be sending you in just a few minutes with your PayPal email and I will send it to you!


All opinions expressed are my own honest opinions. For more information please check my Disclosure Statement. Our giveaways are in no way sponsored or promoted by Facebook.

Where To Get Rid of All That Stuff I Have Accumulated


The most obvious answer to that is to try and sell it on Ebay or on some other auction site. You will at least be able to recoup some of the money you have spent or that object you won that you found you really did not like or need. If, however, you are like me and don’t know one end of a camera from another these places are not going to help you unload all the excess “things” you have accumulated over your internet career! (In my case over 2 years of blogging and another 2 or 3 years of various other internet related activities.


Up until recently I had a LOT of books all over my apartment which my tyrant roommate (Baby) liked to swat on the floor whenever I wasn’t looking—hey they were taking up her “stretch out” room and no matter how I begged, yelled or was firm with her—next thing I knew they were back on the floor and she would show them to me with what looked like a smile on her face. Thus my first order of business was finding a place to donate all those books. I am keeping some for giveaways on my blog, I did and do give some to my Mom and friends—and then I found:

A Book Depository

Right next to the clothing depository in the supermarket parking lot!! I am still to trying get all the clothes that no longer fit me in bags—but I had a lot of clothes—so when I have a bunch of books for that bin I take a couple of bags of clothes along—saves on gas!!

OK-on to the next problem—all the stuff that I used to sell plus all the stuff I used to buy in buying groups. In case you do not know what a buying group is—independent reps join groups with other independent reps and each buys from one other person each month—well I am no longer working so I have stopped that but I have a bunch of things that I will probably never use. Plus I have a bunch of items from places that folded or I just stopped selling for them. I have thought of giveaways on my blog for some of the things and still may do it. I recently gave a bunch of items to a new rep for a company that I still am part of but gave up on selling!

Then there are all the CD’s etc that have been sitting in my closet for ages—there is a place that I can attempt to sell them-as a matter of fact I think I blogged about it a while back—but I have to first get them out of the closet then list them one by one----I will get to this—I really will!! Found it—

Music Magpie

That leaves me with all the miscellaneous soaps, scents, candles etc. Well maybe I will donate it to a church or charity group if I can find one that wants it! Giveaways on my blog seem like the logical answer—what do you think—now remember I can’t take pictures of any of it!



All opinions expressed are my own honest opinions. For more information please check my Disclosure Statement. Our giveaways are in no way sponsored or promoted by Facebook.

And the winner of the Walden Family Theater- Space Warriors Blu-ray Combo Pack Giveaway at Miki's Hope is...

Saturday, June 15, 2013

This contest is officially over! I hope you all had some fun! I just put another one like this up--Just got back from Random.org and the winner is...

momo said... 32

June S.
June 2, 2013 at 3:19 PM

Congratulations June!! You are the winner of the Walden Family Theater- Space Warriors Blu-ray Combo Pack Giveaway! All you have to do now is reply to the email I will be sending in just a few minutes with your full name and mailing address. Please do it quickly this time as there is a deadline for me to get it to the people who will be sending it to you!




All opinions expressed are my own honest opinions. For more information please check my Disclosure Statement. Our giveaways are in no way sponsored or promoted by Facebook.

Book Review - Fading Shadows - Susan C. Finelli


Fading Shadows is a complex book about family dynamics which go on behind the scenes of a seemingly happy life! Both a mystery and a thriller it will keep you riveted as you try to figure out what is going to happen next. I actually did not foresee the ending which for obvious reasons I am not going to tell you--I am going to let the back of the book reveal what it will and say only--buy it, borrow it, what ever it takes--read it!!


From the back of the book:

Mourning the death of her grandfather, and the loss of Daniel Torrelle, the love of her life, Kay Straga buries her sadness deep within her guilt ridden, broken heart.

Although Kay marries Jake Crane, her heart retains its love for her Daniel. More than twenty years later, Kay’s daughter, Sydney, becomes the target of an elaborate plan to seek revenge on Kay for a sin long ago committed, but not forgotten.

Daniel returns to Kay to protect her and her family, only to destroy family harmony and unlock the secret of his and Kay’s past. A secret, that once divulged, keeps her locked in its clutches, from which there is no escape.

This book can be purchased at Amazon and Barnes & Noble

About the author: (from the back of the book)



Susan C. Finelli is the author of the published novels Behind the Shadows and Fading Shadows. Before pursuing her passion for writing, Susan had a dynamic 20-year management career in corporate America building and leading top-performing organizations. Susan is an experienced public speaker and skilled trainer and educator.

Susan is the Executive Producer and host of the Manhattan Neighborhood Network public access television talk show “Behind the Shadows” a program where Susan and her guests explore what goes on “Behind the Shadows” of what meets the eye.

Susan C. Finelli has been included in the 2013 edition of Who’s Who in American Literature.

You can learn more about Susan Finelli and her books at her website www.behindtheshadows.com





I received a copy of the PB edition for review purposes only. All opinions expressed are my own honest opinions. For more information please check my Disclosure Statement. Our giveaways are in no way sponsored or promoted by Facebook.
 
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