December 2015 | Miki's Hope

So--How Many Books did I read in 2015?

Thursday, December 31, 2015


I thought it fitting before we start the New Year I recap the majority of AUTHORS I have read and or have reviewed their books on Goodreads. I took their challenge and surpassed it. The reality is I probably missed putting some of the books on there but this should give you a good enough idea about which authors you might want to check out.

I said I would read 150 books---here is what they say I have read up till today (12/27)179 books!!

And here are the authors and the number of their books I have read--by the way I think this might be a 2 or 3 year total -these numbers are way above 179!

Goodreads
Author# books read
1 3023973 Melissa Foster 29
2 3780 James Patterson 14
2 6568284 Dianne Harman 14
4 Patricia Fry 10
4 7060225 Michael Phillip Cash 10
4 516092 Lawrence W. Gold 10
4 5308409 John W. Mefford 10
8 4787101 Kathleen Shoop 8
8 5390088 Deborah Brown 8
8 5753921 Rachelle Ayala 8
11 2384 Janet Evanovich 7
12 7815498 Danny Odato 5
12 6452190 Delia J. Colvin 5
14 7150857 Angel Sefer 4
14 59446 Sherryl Woods 4
14 96089 Kathy Carmichael 4
14 4678408 Melissa F. Miller 4
14 6429834 Owen Jones 4
14 E.E. Smith 4
14 193609 Michele Gorman 4
21 1125279 Stephen Douglass 3
21 1710882 Ellie Campbell 3
21 1105560 Kaira Rouda 3
21 2967303 Faith Mortimer 3
21 1030664 Christine Amsden 3
21 D.R. Bell 3
21 3419604 Marshall Chamberlain 3
21 6579272 David Burnett 3
21 4509645 Lory S. Kaufman 3
21 706255 Stieg Larsson 3
21 682431 Pamela Fagan Hutchins 3
21 7171873 M. Weidenbenner 3
21 Denisea Kampe 3
21 27847 Lisa Kleypas 3
21 24978 Maya Banks 3
21 19971 Teresa Medeiros 3
21 5895829 Kim Cano 3
21 Steve Goodwin 3
39 1612 Jeffery Deaver 2
39 5754231 John A. Heldt 2
39 5609705 Deborah Garner 2
39 5385246 Joyce T. Strand 2
39 Delynn Royer 2
39 5338562 Lillian R. Melendez 2
39 6468469 Dee Marvin Emeigh 2
39 5621796 Betsy Talbot 2
39 5107466 Jane Bennett Munro 2
39 3525940 Kathy Disanto 2
39 Ken Maxon 2
39 Patricia Skalka 2
39 7082544 Diana Green 2
39 7108778 Anna Othitis 2
39 7110043 Chris Birdy 2
39 463095 Jan Christensen 2
39 Larry D. Thompson 2
39 374164 Douglas E. Richards 2
39 7520686 Harper Lin 2
39 293705 Laura Taylor 2
39 37249 Bella Andre 2
39 8121286 N.L.B. Horton 2
39 13522551 Angie Smith 2



As I said there could be more before the year is totally gone-----and there is always next year. So many GREAT Authors so little time. Please do yourselves a favor and pick up some of the the independently published books by little known authors as I do--you will be in for very pleasant surprises!!

HAPPY NEW YEAR ONE AND ALL FROM BABY AND ME!!







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.

Potassium--I'm Allergic to Bananas--What Should I Eat?

Wednesday, December 30, 2015

What is potassium?

Potassium is a mineral that is found in most foods. It helps your body in several ways. Potassium helps to balance fluids and minerals in your body. It also helps your body maintain a normal blood pressure. Potassium helps your muscles contract and your nerves function normally.

The above is a direct quote from Drugs.com

Potassium is needed by the human body but not in great amounts. Sometimes you are given a drug by your doctor which will cause Potassium to leach from your body-and in my case I get leg cramps that are very painful! When I left the hospital I was given Prednisone (a steroid) to continue at home. Unfortunately Prednisone also makes me retain fluid--a LOT of fluid-my ankles looked like the legs of an elephant and I could barely get my shoes on-not good!! The doctor did an EKG but my heart was fine-so my doctor told me to take a prescription diuretic. Besides the fact that I made a MAJOR mistake and took the pill in the evening----I was up and down all night in the bathroom--by the morning my legs were cramping really bad. I knew what was happening--I went through this once before so I did not panic--just walked the cramp out and hit the WWW. Most people can just eat some banana and that will usually take care of getting the potassium back in your body---but I am allergic to bananas!!! Potassium it turns out can be tricky--you don't want too much or too little and under normal circumstances you get plenty eating as you would normally do.

Here is an article on WEB.MD which explains it and gives some suggestions on what foods you should consume. It is short and to the point but well worth the read!

from http://www.sunsweet.com/products/pitted-prunes-canister/

Hum, Low Fat Yogurt, Broccoli and raisins are on that list. I saw prunes on a different list as well as a small serving of prune juice. Sweet Potato with the skin--I do love sweet potatoes but I am also diabetic so have to watch carb and sugar content! While in the hospital they managed to raise my blood sugar and weight between the foods they served me and the medicines I was on----------I am not a happy camper.

Recipe for Stewed Prunes that sounds like even I could make it! I found this on http://www.food.com/recipe/stewed-prunes-338987
Directions

Place prunes in a saucepan and cover with cold water and lemon juice. Cover and simmer on the lowest heat for 20-30 minutes or until soft and much of the water has been absorbed. Serve. The other option is to combine all ingredients and place in the refrigerator overnight (heating not required) and serve cold.

Ingredients
Servings 1-2
Units US

1 cup prune
1 1⁄2 cups cold water
1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional)

As always I suggest you talk to your doctor before deciding you need to do or change anything in your diet!!




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.

This Has Been Perculating in MY Brain---


I've been mulling this over in my mind for a while now. We all know that I read and review a lot of books by a lot of different authors BUT rarely do I put up guest posts from them. This is an open invitation for authors who really want to say something-whether it be about books, or their favorite charity or anything they want others to know about to contact me and we can set something up.

I also write occasionally about medical issues and since I have made it pretty clear I don't cook all that often I would love to have a guest post or three with real, honest to goodness, delicious DIABETIC recipes. Most of the recipes I see are for Gluten free or weight loss--they are not really good for diabetics (Type 1 or 2). Also if you would like to write about other medical problems you encounter-please ask me.

It goes without saying that if you want a charity (verified)to have extra exposure--Miki's Hope is the place to come and ask.

The only caveat is that the piece has to be original content from an author or a blogger. Of course I could always make it a no index. My entire blog is no follow but of course your blog, name and places you can be found will be listed. I do sponsored posts as well but expect to be paid for them as do all of you.

So what do you think--do you have anything you would love to get out there (no charge either way but only from an author or a blogger)?

You can reach me at my email address MikiHope1@Yahoo.com --put the words "possible blogger or author guest post" in the subject line and I will get back to you as soon as I can!




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-Logan and the Mystical Collar (Adventures in Ancient Egypt)-Suzanne Burke

Tuesday, December 29, 2015


What a lovely and well written book this is! Although meant for children from age 7 or 8 and up I found myself enchanted. It truly deals with bullying in a calm and understanding way--while teaching an important lesson--bullying is NOT leadership--and that bullies can change their ways for the better.

It also delves into the history of Ancient Egypt and some of their customs--including their adoration of dogs-in particular Greyhounds. This would be a great book not only for your child to read but also as a homeschooling book or in a traditional classroom. There are several sections at the end which will help with critical thinking, vocabulary and the like.

About the Book: (from Amazon)

2 time winner in 2015 Global EBook Awards! A famous Egyptian queen, a not so ordinary dog, and a bully cross paths to alter the course of history!

After a mystical collar inscribed with hieroglyphics is found in a dusty old antique shop and placed on Logan the greyhound, he is launched into an exciting time travel adventure to Ancient Egypt. There, Logan meets up with a very familiar cast of characters, only he can’t figure out why they don’t know him. His curiosity lands him in a place where there are secrets he must guard or risk being killed!

In this heroic adventure, there are mysteries, clues, suspense, and the Great Race between Logan and his nemesis, Zeus! A race that proves to be more significant than either expect, and ultimately leads to events that change the course of ancient history.

Written in a timeless style, if you like Indiana Jones, King Arthur, The Wizard of Oz, or Back to The Future, you’ll love this adventure story set in fascinating Ancient Egypt!

Ages 8 to adult

Color Illustrated, 132 pages (also in kindle format)

*Includes history chapters on Ancient Egypt and educational projects for children to expand their critical thinking and creative writing skills, and vocabulary. Deals with the sensitive topic of bullying.

Read a chapter or 2 here


Purchase the book here

About the Author: (from Amazon)


Award winning author, Suzanne Burke became involved with retired racing greyhounds after adopting her first retired racer, Allie in 2002. She has over thirteen years experience with this breed and has been an active volunteer for one of the nation's well known greyhound adoption groups, Greyhound Adoption League of Texas since 2002.

Her vast knowledge of this breed comes from fostering, ownership, working with lost greyhounds, and rescuing greyhounds in dire circumstances. Suzanne's inspiration for writing Greyhound Stories is based on these experiences. Her hope is to inspire others with her stories and share the lessons she's learned about life, love, joy, overcoming adversity, positive thinking, and appreciating the simple things in life.

In 2012, Ms. Burke released Logan's Secret. Following this, she released Logan and the Mystical Collar in 2013, which won Gold and Silver awards in the 2015 Global EBook Awards. Currently, she is working on the third story in the series, The Rise of the Phoenix, which is scheduled for release in late 2015. Read more below about how the author was first introduced to the greyhound:

In 2000, a loose greyhound sprinted past author Suzanne Burke as she worked in her front yard garden on Thanksgiving day. She rushed to the back alley to try to capture the lost greyhound and found him stare her down from the other end. She called for the greyhound and he raced to her at lightning speed. The greyhound named Zeus was safely returned to its owner and it was that day she became totally entranced by the greyhound due to its agility, speed and elegance. It wasn't until 2002 that she would adopt her first retired racing greyhound, named Allie and meet a special greyhound named Logan years later that would inspire her to write his story.

Logan's Secret, Ms. Burke's first book is the true story of a greyhound that faced challenging and heart wrenching experiences in his quest for a forever home. Written from Logan's perspective, the story gained popularity with adults and children and readers wanted to know more about Logan.

Suzanne set out to begin a series of magical fiction stories transporting her true life greyhound characters to historical periods where greyhounds held prominence. These stories are well researched and contain true history chapters at the end to add interest. She teamed up with Dallas graphic artist Shawn Fernandez to add colorful action illustrations that help guide the stories.

Logan and the Mystical Collar, the second story in the series sets Logan in Ancient Egypt with some very familiar characters like Cleopatra, and a bully greyhound named Zeus who have to solve clues from hieroglyphics that suddenly appear on Logan's collar. Recently, Logan and the Mystical Collar won the Gold for Best Illustrated Children's book and Silver for Best Ancient Historical Fiction book in the 2015 Global EBook Awards.

The third book in the series is due for release in late 2015 and promises to be the most exciting story yet. Follow Suzanne's journey in the making of The Rise of the Phoenix, a spell-binding story of Logan, a spunky greyhound named Tess, a misguided staghound named MacGregor, an intelligent wizard, and a feared dragon who must work together to solve the mystery of an evil black mist threatening a kingdom in Medieval Europe. Visit her Facebook page, "Greyhound Stories" and "Logan Greyhound" to learn more.

Today, Ms. Burke lives in Dallas, Texas with three lazy retired greyhound couch potatoes named Amber, Jack, and Perry and recently adopted a staghound named Odin MacGregor who has an uncanny resemblance to a character that had already been written in her third book, The Rise of the Phoenix. She calls that fate.

A percentage of proceeds for her book sales go to the Greyhound Adoption League of Texas and various greyhound adoption groups around the world. Learn more about greyhounds on her website at www.greyhoundstories.com.

Author's Website
Twitter
Facebook
Goodreads



I received a paperback 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.

$200 Amazon GC and Signed Book-1-US-The History Major-Michael P. Cash-Ends 1/12

Monday, December 28, 2015





It should come as no surprise to any of my readers that I would help to promote one of Michael P. Cash's books. What is a surprise, to me especially-is that I have not read it yet!! That, I can assure you will be rectified as soon as I can get my hands on this newest book of his and you will more then likely see a review of The History Major on my blog sooner rather then later. Reading the blurb below I know I am going to LOVE it!! And this is one nice giveaway as well--Yikes-A $200 Amazon GC and a signed copy of the book!! Get in there and start entering--after the holidays ALL of us could use that $200 Amazon!!



Michael Phillip Cash is at it again with his newest novella and 12th book, The History MajorMichael Phillip Cash is an award-winning screenwriter and novelist. He's written the best-selling Brood X, Stillwell, The Flip, The After House, The Hanging Tree, Witches Protection Program, Pokergeist, Monsterland and Battle for Darracia series.







About "The History Major":



After a vicious fight with her boyfriend followed by a night of heavy partying, college freshman Amanda Greene wakes up in her dorm room to find things are not the same as they were yesterday. She can't quite put her finger on it. She's sharing her room with a peculiar stranger. Amanda discovers she's registered for classes she would never choose with people that are oddly familiar. An ominous shadow is stalking her. Uncomfortable memories are bubbling dangerously close to her fracturing world, propelling her to an inevitable collision between fantasy and reality. Is this the mother of all hangovers or is something bigger happening?






To introduce his book, "The History Major", Michael Phillip Cash is generously giving away a signed copy of his new book along with a $200 Amazon gift card to one reader.
Enter in the Rafflecopter below for your chance. 




Connect with Michael on:
Facebook: facebook.com/michaelphillipcash
Twitter: twitter.com/michaelpcash
Web: www.michaelphillipcash.com
Email: michaelphillipcash@gmail.com




Disclosure: This giveaway was arranged on behalf of  Michael Phillip Cash by Away We Go Media. Miki's Hope was asked to promote this giveaway and received no compensation.

The giveaway begins at Midnight, CST on December 28, 2015 and ends Midnight CST on January 12, 2016.  The giveaway is open to U.S. only.

There will be only winner for a signed copy of above book and $200 Amazon gift card. Winner will be chosen at random by Rafflecopter.org. All entries will be verified.  Winner must respond to an email sent within 48 hours or forfeit prize and an alternate will be drawn.

NOTE: Prize may take up to 4-6 weeks to receive.




a Rafflecopter giveaway








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.

Signed Book GA/Review-The Case of the Yellow Diamond-(A Sean Sean Mystery)-Carl Brookins-Ends 1/25


Sean Sean is definitely not your usual Private Investigator--his methods are unusual and besides--he is short. He kind of reminds me of Columbo--remember him? Always deferential and low key--but would hold on with both hands until he either understood something or figured out who done it. Well, Sean Sean is that kind of investigator and he is not afraid to ask his many acquaintances to help him either. One way or another he was going to find out who was sabotaging his clients trip to Yap Island-and who was killing off the family members and more important-WHY.

About the Book: (from Amazon)

A dead man on the floor of his office in Minneapolis won’t lead P.I. Sean Sean to journey to Yap Island to protect his new client. Bombs in lawyers’ cars only jostle him. This short investigator knows the value of research and asking questions in the right places. World War II, Asian diamonds and concrete in Des Moines combine to almost destroy a Minnesota family. In the end, Sean detects flaws in the plans and brings down a criminal enterprise.

Read a chapter or two here

Purchase the Book here

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


Before he became a mystery writer and reviewer, Brookins was a freelance photographer, a public television program director, a cable TV administrator and a counselor and faculty member at Metropolitan State University in Saint Paul, Minnesota. He is a member of Mystery Writers of America, Sisters in Crime, and Private Eye Writers of America. He can frequently be found touring bookstores and libraries with his companions-in-crime, The Minnesota Crime Wave.

He writes the sailing adventure series featuring Michael Tanner and Mary Whitney. The third novel is Old Silver. His new private investigator series features Sean NMI Sean, a short P.I. The first is titled The Case of the Greedy Lawyers. Brookins received a liberal arts degree from the University of Minnesota and studied for a MA in Communications at Michigan State University.

He is married with two grown daughters and lives with his wife, Jean, a retired publisher and editor in Roseville, Minnesota.

Author's Website
Facebook
Twitter
Goodreads


a Rafflecopter giveaway


Rafflecopter will be used to pick the winner of this contest. I will email the winner who will have 48 hours to respond to my email with their full name and mailing address. I will forward this to the proper person who will be mailing the book to the winner.



I received a paperback edition of this book 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.

Book Review-Christmas Stray (Sweet Holiday Romance) -Rachelle Ayala

Saturday, December 26, 2015


I was able to download the Mobi edition of this novella free of charge because I signed up for Rachelle Ayala's email/newsletter from a Facebook post I saw that she had posted. There hasn't been a book that Rachelle Ayala has written that I haven't thoroughly enjoyed be it one of her steamier romances or truly sweet romances and then of course the first book I ever read and reviewed of hers Broken Build (Technothriller & Romantic Suspense)back in 2013 (see my review here) and I couldn't quite figure out why I wasn't on her email/newsletter list already!

This relatively short novella had me literally sobbing at the happy ending--tears flowing down my face. I was going to go to sleep then decided to read it--then knew I had to write it up for all of you-I just could not wait. Talk about miracles and the power of healing after a grief no parent should have to endure.

About the Book: (from Amazon)

"Touching story of love and miracles." - Bestselling Author Chantel Rhondeau
Juliette Martin does not ever want to celebrate Christmas again, not when it means reliving the last one after her six-year-old son, Jeremiah, passed away on Christmas Eve.

She and husband, Gabe, find themselves snowed in at a mountain cabin with a pair of strays. Juliette desperately needs a miracle to save her marriage and restore her faith in God. Can a stray dog and an orphan boy help her believe in the magic of Christmas and the power of love?

Read a chapter or two here

Purchase the Book here


About the Author: (from Amazon)


Rachelle Ayala is a bestselling author of contemporary romance and romantic suspense. Her foremost goal is to take readers on a shared emotional journey with her characters as they grow and become more true to themselves. Rachelle believes in the power of love to overcome obstacles and feels that everyone should find love as often as possible, especially if it's within the pages of a book. Her book, Knowing Vera, won the 2015 Angie Ovation Award, and A Father for Christmas garnered a 2015 Readers' Favorite Gold Award.

Sign up for her NEWSLETTER to get a FREE surprise book and her latest book news! http://bit.ly/RachAyala

Visit her Reader's Guide at http://rachelleayala.me/reading-guide/ or contact her at http://rachelleayala.me/author-bio/contact/

She is also a writing teacher and founder of the Romance In A Month writing community. She lives in California with her husband and has three children and two birds.

Find the author on the following sites....
Website   Blog   Facebook  Twitter  Pinterest  Google+  Goodreads 





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.

Elaine's Toffee Co.Prize Pack Giveaway #ElainesToffeeCo. Ends-1/7/16

Thursday, December 24, 2015

ElainesToffee12345678Deliciously Savvy is Hosting a Giveaway for One Lucky Winner To Receive an Elaine's Toffee Co. Prize Pack of Delicious Toffee Treats! 1 Lucky Winner will receive a 1 pound Box of Elaine's Toffee Companies new Pumpkin Spice Toffee, 2 Pumpkin Spice Toffee Bars and 2 Bags of their Traditional Toffee Nuggets! 1 in Milk Chocolate and 1 in Dark Chocolate. ($45 ARV) Elaine's Toffee Companies Toffee is by far the best I have ever had so this is a Delicious Prize! Good Luck and Enter Today!


Sponsored By: Elaine's Toffee Co.


Hosted By: Deliciously Savvy


Co-Hosted By:


My Silly Little Gang // Amy & Aron's Real Life Reviews // Heartbeats~ Soul Stains // Box Roundup // Michigan Saving and More // Capri's Coupons


PLUS a Big Shout Out To all Bloggers Helping to Promote! We appreciate all That You Do! Thank You!


Elaines Tofee 444


FACEBOOK ~ PINTEREST ~ TWITTER


My Review Of Elaine's Toffee


This is the most delicious and amazing tasting toffee I have EVER eaten! I have reviewed Elaine's Toffee before BUT the Pumpkin Spice Toffee is a new flavor and I was sooooooo NOT disappointed! The flavor of the Pumpkin Spice Toffee is perfect. Not too much Pumpkin Spice.... still that delicious "nutty" toffee flavor but with the added touch of Pumpkin Spice. My favorite part.... the toasted pumpkin seeds on the outside of the bars! Delicious! Also.... the Toffee Nuggets included in this giveaway are fabulous and my absolute fave is the Milk Chocolate. They are topped with nuts and just delicious. My husband loves the Dark chocolate and I snag the Milk Chocolate..... but I have to admit the combo of Dark Chocolate and Toffee is delicious because I really love the Dark Chocolate Toffee Nuggets too! Elaine's Recipes for their Toffee is just so delicious and exquisite and I would recommend this as a treat for anyone and it is a FABULOUS gift idea too :) You will really make someone's day with any of these sweet treats!


Just reading that review makes my mouth start watering! There is absolutely nothing in this world quite like the melt in your mouth feeling you get when you pop a delicious toffee into your mouth--and then add chocolate? I want some of this--how about you? Well keep reading and see what you can win.


1 Lucky Winner Will Receive:


  • 1 1 Pound Box Of Elaine's Toffee Co. Pumpkin Spice Toffee (New Edition!)
  • 2 Elaine's Toffee Co. Pumpkin Spice Individually Wrapped Bars
  • 2 Bags of Toffee Nuggets (Milk & Dark Chocolate)

($45 ARV)


And Now The Giveaway!!!


Giveaway Dates ~ 12/19 9PM EST until 01/07 11:59PM EST

Entrants must be 18 years old to enter and giveaway is open to US residents only.

Any Questions Email Me At mcushing7 (at) hotmail (dot) com.


This giveaway is in no way endorsed, affiliated or associated with Facebook,
Twitter or any other Social Media Networking Site. This giveaway is valid only
in the United States. Entrants must be 18+ years of age to enter.
This giveaway will end at 11:59PM (EST) on 01/07/2016.
Good Luck! Enter Below

Also we all “love it if you like us” on Facebook!

Two Rivers Taste Explosion GA-4 Winners-US-Ends 1/10/16 @las930

Monday, December 21, 2015

two rivers taste explosion


Welcome to The Two Rivers Taste Explosion Giveaway!

Hosted by Michigan Saving and More

Two Rivers Coffee Company is giving away

1 of each of these!

Two Rivers Mega Coffee


Two Rivers Mega Coffee Sampler

Two Rivers Bit of Everything


Two Rivers Bit of Everything

Two Rivers Flavored Sampler Pack


Two Rivers Flavored Variety Pack


Two Rivers Hot Cocoa Variety Pack

This will make everyone in the house happy!

First winner picks 1 from all 4.

2nd winner picks 1 from remaining 3.

3rd winner picks 1 from remaining 2.

4th winner gets the last one.

Reminder: If you have won anything from Two Rivers, Brooklyn Beans, etc. you are not eligible for this contest.


ALSO WE WANT TO GIVE A HUGE THANKS TO ALL THE AWESOME GROUP OF PROMOTING BLOGGERS! THANK YOU SO MUCH FOR INVITING YOUR FOLLOWERS TO ENTER!

th

 

GIVEAWAY

This giveaway is in no way endorsed, affiliated, or associated with Facebook, Twitter or any other Social Media Networking Site. You are not eligible if you have won a prize from any of the sponsors in the last 12 month.This Giveaway is valid in the Continental United States Only and Entrants must be 18+ years of age to enter. This giveaway event will end at 11:59 PM (EST) 1/10/16. The winners will have 48 hours to email theirinformation back to las93063 at gmail dot com or a new winner will be drawn, you may want to put this email address as safe as it could go to spam. The sponsors are each responsible for shipping of the above prizes. No blog associated with this contests are responsible for prize fulfillment. If you would like to be a sponsor in a giveaway like this please email Laura Smith at las930 (at)gmail (dot) com.

Also we all “love it if you like us” on Facebook! If you like our blogs on social media it helps us bring you only the best giveaways and more of them!








Any affiliate links if any are NOT those of Miki's Hope. 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 Excerpt-Caelum–Olde City Angels Book 1-Mandie Stevens

Thursday, December 17, 2015


There is still a giveaway going on but I thought that maybe you would like to read a bit so I asked Mandie Stevens if she would allow me to put up an excerpt of this Adult Fantasy because I may not have explained it correctly. As I stated, this is not a genre I am used to reading. The author graciously sent me the following so all of you could get a real taste for this book.
If you would like to enter the giveaway click here The giveaway ends on 12/20.

Mandie Stevens is currently working on the 2nd book in this series--so keep a watch!!




“Eva.” A soft whisper called to me. As I turned around to see who it was, the shadow screeched my name and reached from the wall to touch me. I backed away and stepped off the curb. The shadows made my decision easier, and I headed to the bar.

My head snapped up when a crow cawed. There must have been nearly a hundred crows on the rooftop above. Hell’s spies had found me fast. I could sense the hatred rolling of them in waves. The demon already had an advantage.

The bar’s bouncer was a beady-eyed dwarf who honed in on me before I managed to cross the street. I tugged my shirt to conceal the knife, knowing it was too late to hide it but trying anyway.

“I need to see some I.D.” The dwarf stood on the chair, making him meet my height. I held out my hand and let it glow, letting him know I was an angel. He arched his brow. “Sorry, toots, but you have to leave your weapons at the door.”

I looked him up and down. “Not going to happen. I’m here to see Phenex.” I walked past him on his perch. The bar’s magik hit me, crawling over my body, sizing me up. Grumpy hopped off his chair, landing with a thud and a grunt. “Hey, did you hear me?”

Stepping into the bar, I looked over my shoulder and gave him a smile, daring him to come after me. The energy of the place was chaotic, and the room was dark. Dim lights bounced off the mahogany bar, giving a warm, comfortable feeling. The music was something I hadn’t heard before, and the air smelled like vanilla. It wasn’t what I had expected. I pushed my way through the crowd to the back of the room.

Phenex stood by the pool tables in the corner of the room. When his blue eyes met mine, he smirked, taking his shot and sinking the cue ball. The wolf pack stood to the left of him, shaking their heads at his shot, and the elf laughed. The group didn’t seem to unsettle him, but I, on the other hand, wanted to get the hell out of there as soon as I could, I wasn’t used to being around this many supernaturals.

Phenex looked almost the same as he had before he’d left the constellation, but now his blond hair was down to his shoulders instead of being cut short. He wore a tight black T-shirt and black jeans, giving him the bad-boy feel. He was definitely not angelic anymore. He handed his pool stick to the wolf closest to him. “I’m out. I’ll catch up with you tomorrow.”

Taking the stick, the wolf laughed. “Whatever dude, you were cheating anyway.”

Phenex grabbed his beer and nodded towards a corner table that was empty. We slid into seats across from each other. He leaned forward, searching my face, then half-smiled. “What are you called these days?”

“Eva.”

He arched his brow. “Still?”

“What do you mean, still?”

A bar maid walked up to our table. “What can I get you?”

“I’ll take another Heineken. What do you want, Eva? Some milk?” He snickered at his own joke.

I hadn’t had a glass of wine in a long time. I wanted to make it good so I chose my favorite. “A glass of Chateau Latour Bordeaux.”

Phenex shook his head. “She’ll take a house Merlot.”

The barmaid bit her lip. “I’ve got a bottle of the Bordeaux, but it belongs to the boss man.”.

“The merlot is fine.” The girl scurried off to get our drinks. “You didn’t think I wouldn’t check up on you, did you?” He leaned back in his seat and took the last swig of his beer. “I’m Phenex.”

“I assumed you were. You always used the name when we came to this realm.” Our real names wouldn’t even translate while we were here.

He searched my face. “I take it you’re here on business?”

“Yes.” I sat back and crossed my arms. “Don’t give me crap, Phenex. It isn’t like you ever looked me up after you decided to leave Heaven.”

Phenex arched his brow. “It isn’t like I’m exactly welcome there.”

I leaned in and whispered, gritting my teeth, “Don’t forget, you left of your own free will. Paimon and Corson chose Lucifer, and you didn’t choose at all. You all left me!”

Timidly, the girl set our drinks down and scurried away.

Pulling out a cigarette, he lit it. “You could have come and visited.” He mumbled the words as he exhaled the smoke.

“You think I haven’t thought about you all every single day? You were my best friends, my brothers.”

“Calm down, you’re starting to glow. It will draw attention.”

I looked up. Most of the eyes in the room were on me. I slid back in my seat, trying to hide and get my emotions under control. A tall fae, with his blue black hair pulled back, eyed me from the bar.

“Who are you here for? It obviously isn’t me. Where in the hell is your liaison?” A frown crossed his face.

“Maybe it’s fate that brought me to where you are?”

“Fate.” He shook his head and took a pull of his beer. “The fates would never allow that. They crossed me out a long time ago. Who are you guardian for?”

“Elsie Ponce.”

The fae who’d been watching me stalked up to our table. The magik was so thick, his aura was layered blue then green then purple and pulsed off his body like the beating of a drum.

“His majesty King Oberon requires your presence, Angel.”




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Mandie Stevens has always been accused of living in her own world so she decided to put it to paper. When she isn’t Mandiebiowriting you can catch her lounging on the beach reading. She has ridiculously little feet and would be happy eating seafood every day.

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$20 Amazon/PP-1-WW-The Country Courtship Tour-Kathy Carmichael-Ends 12/31

Wednesday, December 16, 2015



I actually have reviewed two of the three books listed here and give my link to the third. Just look for the BOLD words!

This is one of those lighthearted romances that will have you sighing and laughing and possibly even shaking your head in agreement--but for certain you may not be able to put it down until the last page-I know I read this one from cover to cover.

Family dynamics and jealousy between otherwise loving sisters is at the crux of this romantic comedy. Kelli's younger sister is absolutely exasperated-every guy she dates really wants to be with Kelli-her beloved older sister. Can't blame her really who wants to be dated so they can be shafted for someone else especially an older sister. Poor Kelli has nothing to do with this and feels horrible! So when Kelli's sister asks a old friend to escort her to a family gathering--and said friend ends up talking with Kelli--sparks fly between the sisters. Problem is the sparks are flying between Kelli and Bobby. What is a girl to do when she has to chose between family and her heart. You will have to read this book to find out.



hot flash

Only 99c reduced from $3.99 until 12/31

The Texas Two-Step romantic comedy series is a reader favorite. All of the stories in the series are sweet, charming and emotional contemporary romance. Each story in the series stands alone, but all Texas Two-Step novels and novellas feature love stories about members of the Nelson, Murphy or Palmer families — and sometimes, more than one!

When Kelli Palmer meets Bobby Gray Nelson at a family get-together, their attraction is immediate. But Kelli's kid sister already has dibs on Bobby Gray.

Bobby Gray Nelson never takes no for an answer, a resolve that made him a rodeo champion.

But Kelli is standing her ground.

Now Bobby Gray must do something he's never done: woo the woman who's already claimed his heart, and earn permission to place his brand on hers.

Country Courtship is the third sweet romance in the Texas Two-Step contemporary romance series from USA Today bestselling author Kathy Carmichael.
Previously titled: Kissing Kelli

Available to buy at only 99c (until 12/31) from...
Amazon.com   Amazon.co.uk   Barnes and Noble   iBooks   Kobo


“I have always had a hard time leisurely reading any of Kathy Carmichael’s books and this one was no exception. This delightful story is sure to please her many and varied fans!”
~ Kathy Boswell, Fresh Fiction


Another beautifully sweet romance from Kathy Carmichael. I simply adore this series. Country Courtship is sweet, funny, and incredibly romantic. I highly recommend it.
~ Reviewer on Amazon


Also Available

Chasing Charlie, Texas Two-Step Series Book 1 FREE EBOOK


Raised in a family of rodeo champions on a South Texas cattle ranch, Charlie wants only one thing: to avoid thrill-seeking cowboys.

Davis Murphy, cowboy wannabe and one of Dallas's most eligible bachelors, needs a pretty and witty faux fiancée so his widowed mother will marry her longtime gentleman friend.

Charlie, his local librarian, seems the prefect choice.

Charlie's first reaction is to run, but she's promised herself to step out of her plain-jane routine.

When Charlie accepts, Davis's plan is set. But now Charlie's sweet ways are challenging his bachelor heart.

I previously read and reviewed this delightful book-read my review here

FREE from the following sites....


The Lassoed Bride (a novella), Texas Two-Step Series Book 2 NEW RELEASE

This short novella is certain to please. I read it in no time at all so if you don't have much time to read this one is definitely for you. I really loved it. Jilted years before by Ben, Barbara has never really forgotten him. He left her sitting and waiting at a restaurant for heavens sake! Well, she has finally given in and agreed to marry an old friend who her mother wants her to marry. Her sisters take her to a Dude Ranch for a Bachlorette weekend and guess who is there. Meanwhile her wedding is only a couple of days away--will her match making younger sister manage to get these two together-you will have to read it to find out!!


A Novella. Six years ago, Barbara Palmer fell head-over-heels for cocky cowboy Ben O'Shea. He was devastatingly appealing, and he knew it. He had her heart—until the day he stood her up and disappeared. Now he’s back, determined to take up again where they left off—even though she's about to marry another man.

Despite all the growing up Ben has done in the past six years, including the highly successful dude ranch he's built that's made him a millionaire—he's never forgotten Barb and he wants her back.

But her wedding grows closer every day. He has to win back her love and her trust, before she's lost to him forever.



Available to buy from...


THE TEXAS TWO-STEP, in series order

Western Pleasure (A Novella) (Book 0)

Chasing Charlie (Book 1) 


The Lassoed Bride (A Novella) (Book 2)

Country Courtship (Book 3)

Courting Trouble (Book 4)

My Southern Bride (Book 5)



About the Author


USA Today Bestselling author Kathy Carmichael resides on the west coast of Florida with her Scottish husband, two not-so-wee sons, three cats, a part-time dog, and a huge collection of dust bunnies.

Kathy writes award-winning romantic comedies and humorous mysteries. Her Texas Two-Step romance series is a reader favorite.
Kathy's romantic comedy, Hot Flash, was named by the American Library Association's BOOKLIST magazine as one of the Top 10 Romance Fiction titles for 2009.


In addition to her novels, she’s sold short stories and wrote a bi-monthly column on the business of writing for a national writing trade magazine. Kathy is also a contest judge for Writers Digest.

She’s a member of the International Thriller Writers, an active member of the Mystery Writers of America, Sisters-in-Crime, Novelists Inc., the Florida chapter of MWA, is the published author liaison of the Tampa Area Romance Authors, and is an active member and past national board member of the Romance Writers of America.

Kathy loves hearing from readers.


Find the author on the following sites...
Website   Facebook   Twitter   Google+   Pinterest   Goodreads   Amazon Author Page

Subscribe to Kathy’s Readers Group HERE and receive the link to download your free digital copy of Western Pleasure! You don’t want to miss out on the fun stuff Kathy offers, including contests just for her subscribers



Read an excerpt from Country Courtship HERE

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I received this book to review through Beck Valley Books Book Tours, all the opinions above are 100% my own.
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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/PP-1-WW-Beary Merry Holiday Hop-Ends 1/1/2016

Tuesday, December 15, 2015


Well--this is the last hop put together by that dynamic duo LeahSay's Views and Planet Weidknecht for this year. If I am not mistaken it has been 2 every month for the last several months--that is a LOT of work and I want to thank them personally for doing it all. I wonder if these hops will slow down after the New Year (is it really almost 2016?)-maybe to one a month? Well-we will just have to wait and see won't we!

www.dreamstime.com

I would be remiss if I didn't wish all of you a very Happy Holiday-whether you celebrate Channucha (Happy Channucha), Christmas (Merry Christmas), Kwanza (Joyous Kwanza) and of course wishing you all a Happy and Healthy New Year-may it herald in peace and goodwill and love throughout the world and to all who reside here, human or animal on our Planet Earth. I would also like to thank all of you for coming to Miki's Hope and entering the giveaways, reading my book reviews and all those other miscellaneous posts I sometimes come up with. OH--Baby just reminded me that she wishes you all the best too and of course a special MEOW to all HER animal friends near and far domestic and otherwise!!


Now on to the GIVEAWAY at Miki's Hope----Like all the rest that I do-this will be nice and easy. It is open world wide to anyone 18 years of age and older who can accept either a $25 Amazon GC or $25 PayPal. If you are picked as the 1 lucky winner then you will receive an email from me which you must reply to within 48 hours telling me which prize you want and the email you want it sent to--I am responsible for sending out the prize! And PLEASE don't forget all the other bloggers who are participating in this hop (clickable linky below the Rafflecopter)-each prize has to be a minimum value of $25-so go enter theirs as well!!

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E-Book GA-3-WW-Murder and the Secret Cave (High Desert Cozy Mystery)-Dianne Harman-Ends 1/2/2016

Monday, December 14, 2015


This is the second book in the High Desert Cozy Mystery series by Dianne Harman. It can definitely be read as a stand alone, as can all her books, but I would suggest reading them in order--there is a continuity of characters. And besides they are all so good you really are going to want to read them all! (Yes, I have read them all and am always eagerly awaiting the next.) The foods that the resident chef makes in this book sound so good and of course the recipes are included at the end.

I loved Marty Morgan's Black Lab who was smart enough to know that he would not walk in the desert off the compound without his booties--of course the guys in this book were slightly embarrassed to be seen walking him (you have to read to find out why).

There were lots of suspects in this one and they all had good reason to murder the old desert rat Randy--but which one did it-quite a few twists and turns and my favorite Lab becomes a hero!

Dianne Harman has agreed to give away e-books to 3 lucky winners-see below for the Rafflecopter and details. And don't forget that she also gives away books on her website!

About the Book: (from Amazon)

Who killed Randy Jones?

Was it Dr. Rosenbaum, who would do anything to get the Native American artifacts he desperately needed to add to his collection? Was it Richard Sagebrush, a Native American whose one goal in life was to return stolen artifacts to their rightful tribes? Was it Randy’s son, Luke Peterson, who was still angry his father had abandoned him forty years ago? Was it Colin Sanders, who dealt in black market Native American artifacts? Or even Mary BirdSong, the woman who had lived for ten years with Randy in his rundown desert shack until one day, without any explanation, he kicked her out?

Randy Jones was an old desert rat with a secret collection of Native American artifacts that was worth millions, but can you put a price on an illegal collection? That’s the dilemma Marty Morgan finds herself in when Randy asks her to appraise his collection, but the meeting leads to more than an appraisal – it becomes a meeting that ends in murder – Randy’s.
Join Marty, her boyfriend Detective Jeff Combs, her psychic sister, Laura, and her black Labrador, Duke, who refuses to set foot on desert sand without his pink booties, as they search for the killer before he murders Marty. Another dilemma Marty faces is deciding whether she wants her relationship with Jeff to go to the next level.

Murder and the Secret Cave is another mouth-watering High Desert Cozy Mystery with recipes included by seven time Amazon All-Star author.

Read a chapter or two here

Purchase the Book Here

About the Author: (from Amazon)


Dianne Harman draws her stories and characters from a diverse business and personal background. She owned a national antique and art appraisal business for many years, left that industry, and opened two yoga centers where she taught yoga and certified yoga instructors. She's traveled extensively throughout the world and loves nothing more than cooking and playing with her new puppy, Kelly.

Being a dog lover and having attended numerous cooking schools, she couldn't resist writing about food and dogs. She is the author of three cozy mystery series: Cedar Bay, Liz Lucas, and her newest, High Desert. Each of these books contains recipes from her travels. She is also the author of the award-winning suspenseful Coyote Series.

A number of books in her cozy mystery series have been designated by Amazon as All-Stars because of their sales, and Dianne has been named by Amazon seven times as one of their most popular authors.

She invites you to visit her web site at: www.dianneharman.com and sign up for her newletters. You'll receive a free book and have a weekly chance to win an autographed boxed set of the Cedar Bay Cozy Mystery Series. You may also visit her on Twitter: @DianneDHarman or email her at: dianne@dianneharman.com

Authors Website
Twitter
Facebook
Goodreads
Audiobooks

Fill out the Rafflecopter below for a chance to be one of 3 lucky winners WW of this e-book. You must be 18 years of age or older. Rafflecopter will be used to pick the winners. I will email the winners who must reply to my email within 48 hours with the email address and the format e-book they require. I will then forward this info to the author who is responsible for getting the prizes to the winners.


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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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