tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-45408420590618795582024-03-05T05:08:43.682-07:00Robin Nolet/AuthorRobinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08246758956292101474noreply@blogger.comBlogger118125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4540842059061879558.post-19766058534368854872020-11-14T10:35:00.001-07:002020-11-14T10:35:47.225-07:00Short and Sweet Review: On Writing: A Memoir of the Craft by Stephen King<p> </p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 107%;"></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidoKvBtiat-DEPO_V1q13bVJDEsfB_3XmTWfbo3OO8bXxG_2YGUSLKnjY33xpeJ9njQeRzIHZg6SXzP2oq85B63Mh_D3wgAy2wE-mL3xUL9X8275JSMyC5AVQ76s-W5bXz-1Yv-7phY0I/s499/King.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="499" data-original-width="328" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidoKvBtiat-DEPO_V1q13bVJDEsfB_3XmTWfbo3OO8bXxG_2YGUSLKnjY33xpeJ9njQeRzIHZg6SXzP2oq85B63Mh_D3wgAy2wE-mL3xUL9X8275JSMyC5AVQ76s-W5bXz-1Yv-7phY0I/w263-h400/King.jpg" width="263" /></a></div><o:p></o:p><p></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 107%;">If you spend
much time in the writing world it won’t take long before someone recommends you
read Stephen King’s book, <b><a href="https://www.amazon.com/Writing-Memoir-Craft-Stephen-King/dp/1982159375/ref=asc_df_1982159375/?tag=hyprod-20&linkCode=df0&hvadid=459730632142&hvpos=&hvnetw=g&hvrand=12925993821947012097&hvpone=&hvptwo=&hvqmt=&hvdev=c&hvdvcmdl=&hvlocint=&hvlocphy=9028767&hvtargid=pla-922297684233&psc=1" target="_blank">On Writing: A Memoir of the Craft</a></b>. It’s happened to
me several times. But I confess, I’m not a fan of the horror genre that King
writes in so…I was a little squeamish about what this book might hold in store
for me. Not anymore!<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0in; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-top: 0in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-margin-bottom-alt: 8.0pt; mso-margin-top-alt: 0in;"><span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0in; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-top: 0in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-margin-bottom-alt: 8.0pt; mso-margin-top-alt: 0in;"><span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 107%;">Let me start by saying that anyone
who loves a good Stephen King tale will really enjoy the first third of this
book. Indeed, if you are a big fan, it’s worth getting it just for that. King is
so much a part of our literary—and movie—history at this point that you’ll no
doubt have enough personal knowledge of his work to at least be curious. And
really, he does a wonderful job of spinning the tale of the pivotal moments in
his early life that fed into his success as a writer. <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0in; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-top: 0in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-margin-bottom-alt: 8.0pt; mso-margin-top-alt: 0in;"><span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0in; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-top: 0in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-margin-bottom-alt: 8.0pt; mso-margin-top-alt: 0in;"><span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 107%;">If you’re hoping to get a glimpse
into the story behind the accident that briefly side-lined his career, that comes
nearer the end. But even non-writers might find the ‘writer stuff’ interesting
because King has a way with words that makes the reading fun, even at the most
potentially dull grammatically particular passages. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0in; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-top: 0in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-margin-bottom-alt: 8.0pt; mso-margin-top-alt: 0in;"><span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0in; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-top: 0in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-margin-bottom-alt: 8.0pt; mso-margin-top-alt: 0in;"><span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 107%;">And about that ‘writer stuff’. It’s
pretty interesting too. You’ll learn much about how broadly he reads and how
seriously he takes the English language (he was an English teacher once upon a
time, after all). King has great respect for Mr. Strunk and Mr. White. If you’re
a writer and haven’t dug into <b><a href="https://www.amazon.com/Elements-Style-Fourth-William-Strunk-ebook/dp/B07NPN5HTP/ref=sr_1_4?dchild=1&gclid=Cj0KCQiA-rj9BRCAARIsANB_4ACU1epA5md8r5Szv_BKJ7L3VNJITEhtmxa6fDd_sDC3H0SEJEWzmowaAgd5EALw_wcB&hvadid=174253996019&hvdev=c&hvlocphy=1014602&hvnetw=g&hvqmt=e&hvrand=16664456443946122540&hvtargid=kwd-122971900&hydadcr=24659_9648993&keywords=strunk+and+white&qid=1605286982&sr=8-4&tag=googhydr-20" target="_blank">The Elements of Style</a></b> for a while, you’ll
get a little refresher course here, and maybe gain a new appreciation of that
classic. But you’ll also learn about the rules King still breaks—and why. <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0in; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-top: 0in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-margin-bottom-alt: 8.0pt; mso-margin-top-alt: 0in;"><span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0in; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-top: 0in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-margin-bottom-alt: 8.0pt; mso-margin-top-alt: 0in;"><span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 107%;">For writers, this part of the book is
pure gold. Well, really the whole thing is. From start to finish you’ll learn the back
story behind so many of the story choices the author made throughout his career.
What shaped the character of <b><a href="https://www.amazon.com/Carrie-Stephen-King-ebook/dp/B001BANK2I/ref=tmm_kin_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&qid=1605375295&sr=1-1" target="_blank">Carrie</a></b>? How much of the author is reflected
by the character of Paul, the author, in <b><a href="https://www.amazon.com/Misery-Stephen-King-audiobook/dp/B019FQXLLO/ref=sr_1_3?crid=1PASTR2TVDMQ6&dchild=1&keywords=misery+stephen+king&qid=1605375214&s=books&sprefix=misery%2Cstripbooks%2C201&sr=1-3" target="_blank">Misery</a></b>? Frankly, I wish he’d write
another book to fill us in on more story creation gems like these. <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0in; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-top: 0in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-margin-bottom-alt: 8.0pt; mso-margin-top-alt: 0in;"><span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0in; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-top: 0in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-margin-bottom-alt: 8.0pt; mso-margin-top-alt: 0in;"><span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 107%;">You’ll also gain some insight into
what his career has been like, professionally and personally. His wife, Tabitha,
is also a writer, and everything he writes is written with her in mind. She’s his
‘Ideal Reader’, the first to read and critique his work. Her opinion is number
one for King. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0in; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-top: 0in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-margin-bottom-alt: 8.0pt; mso-margin-top-alt: 0in;"><span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0in; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-top: 0in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-margin-bottom-alt: 8.0pt; mso-margin-top-alt: 0in;"><span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 107%;">One of King’s pearls of wisdom is, “If
God gives you something you can do, why in God’s name wouldn’t you do it?” <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>If you’re not already a King fan you might be
tempted to pick up another one of his books after you read this one because King does
what he can do, and he does it very well. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></p>
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<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0in; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-top: 0in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-margin-bottom-alt: 8.0pt; mso-margin-top-alt: 0in;"><span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>Robinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08246758956292101474noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4540842059061879558.post-83955981101154855192020-07-01T09:36:00.001-06:002020-07-01T09:36:48.764-06:00Short and Sweet Review: Fifth Avenue, 5 A.M.: Audrey Hepburn, Breakfast at Tiffany's, and The Dawn of the Modern Woman by Sam Wasson<br />
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Spoiler Alert: If you haven’t seen the movie <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><u>Breakfast At Tiffany’s</u></i> or read
the story...tread with caution for spoilers in this book review...<o:p></o:p></div>
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I fell in love with the movie Breakfast At Tiffany’s when I
was younger. It seemed so glamourous and nutty and sentimental. When I got
older I read Truman Capote’s original short story and realized the story was
darker and Holly Golightly, that delightful party girl, was really a uptown
version of Julia Robert’s character in Pretty Woman.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></div>
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So I saw the story differently. It still had glamour and
that zany touch, but now there was heartbreak and that sense of two lost souls
finding each other to cling to, even if one of them was determined not to. I
still tear up every time they find each other...and the cat, in that rainy
alley and Henry Mancini’s ‘Moon River’ swells in the background. <o:p></o:p></div>
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Maybe it’s corny and dated...or maybe it’s not. But what it
was, at the time, was groundbreaking. The producers were determined to bring it
to the screen but they tweaked that story good and Capote pretty much checked
out after a while leaving George Axelrod to craft a perfect screenplay, one
that kept the essence of the story but beat out just enough of the gritty truth
for the Hollywood censors to find acceptable. <o:p></o:p></div>
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In addition to choosing Axelrod as the screenwriter, they
made a couple of other genius decisions; they picked Blake Edwards to direct
and Audrey Hepburn to star as Holly. Even George Peppard and Patricia Neal seem
perfectly cast, though George comes off far less than charming off screen. <o:p></o:p></div>
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I could go on about the perfect casting of the other
characters, including Buddy Epsen, who brings a heartrending clarity to the
soul of the real Holly. But this book is about the making of the movie and the
back story there is fascinating. The efforts that went into getting that
perfect opening shot of Holly on Fifth Avenue in front of Tiffany’s gave me a
whole new appreciation for the scene as well as the use of New York City almost
as a character itself. <o:p></o:p></div>
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It took monumental effort to convince Audrey, with her squeaky clean image, and her controlling husband, Mel Ferrer, to take on what was
considered a very risqué part at the time. This movie dealt with
the underbelly of all those wacky ‘50’s and ‘60’s movies about sweet girls
going to the big city and finding love. It cracked open the shell of fiction and
pulled out a little reality, opening the door to more realistic movies in the
years to come. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Sex, though unseen, was
very obvious. And innocent though she claimed to, Holly still visited Sing Sing
prison to deliver the ‘<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">the weather report</i>
‘to Sally Tomato (a great name for a character if ever there was one!). It’s
hard to believe that a gal so world weary and wise wouldn’t have a clue what
that was all about. <o:p></o:p></div>
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In the story behind the story we find out Audrey longed to
return home to her infant son, that George and Patricia went together off
screen like oil and vinegar, that the actor that played the aristocratic Jose
really was an aristocrat...and so many more delightful behind the scene
revelations. <o:p></o:p></div>
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No one was quite sure how the public would take this movie.
Would they hate Audrey for taking a part they’d feel was beneath her? Would
they find the humor crass? Of course, we know now it was a success, so much so
that it got four Oscar nominations, including one for Audrey. But in the end,<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>it was Henry Mancini’s score that took home
the only prize. <o:p></o:p></div>
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Of course, we need to address the elephant in the room, the
casting of Andy Rooney as Mr. Yunioshi, the wacky Japanese neighbor.
Unfortunately they went with Rooney instead of a well-known Asian actor (and
they had a great option but passed up). I don’t even recall if that character
was in the book...but either way, in today’s light, it’s a difficult
characterization to watch and clearly an unfortunate choice. I think readers
will find that part of the story interesting and frustrating. You have to watch
a movie not just in the light of the period it was set in but the period it was
made in. It’s a reflection of its time and I’d hope a casting mistake like that
could never happen today. Don’t hold it against the movie as a whole, which is
otherwise a gem. <o:p></o:p></div>
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Clearly, I’m a fan, and if you love the movie too you will
love digging into the book for all the details. You’ll see the movie
differently, I guarantee it, but you’ll probably enjoy it more. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<br />Robinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08246758956292101474noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4540842059061879558.post-61595100795130325692020-05-06T13:39:00.001-06:002020-05-06T13:39:49.498-06:00A Short and Sweet Review: The Splendid and The Vile by Erik Larson<br />
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As I write this we are all living through the COVID-19
isolation/slow reopening and the accompanying shortages, stresses and, in the
midst of it all, hopefully discovering new ways to make our lives whole. It
couldn’t be a more appropriate time for this book to arrive on bookshelves. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<a href="https://www.amazon.com/Splendid-Vile-Churchill-Family-Defiance-ebook/dp/B07TRVW6VX">Erik Larson’s The SplendidAnd The Vile</a> is an insightfully detailed and revealing book about the first
year of Winston Churchill’s amazing term as Prime Minister (PM) of Great
Britain during WWII. If you are tempted to hit the snooze button when you read
the word <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Churchill</i>, please don’t!
This is not a snooze book, it’s a riveting retelling of a harrowing year, truly
a page turner. <o:p></o:p></div>
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Churchill came into office just as France was falling to the
Germans and it became more and more obvious that if England didn’t stop them,
all of Europe would be under the control of the Third Reich. But England wasn’t
prepared. They were low on everything, including money. They needed help
desperately, but in America, President Roosevelt was dealing with isolationists
who wanted no part of another World War.<o:p></o:p></div>
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And that’s when Hitler decided to unleash the full force of
his air force, the Luftwaffe, trying to beat the English to a pulp, leaving
them no option but surrender. No place was safe, not your couch, bed, or even
the London underground. Eventually, the bombs set massive stretches of London
ablaze and literally decimated port and industrial cities around the nation. <o:p></o:p></div>
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Despite the misgivings of many, including the King,
Churchill was the man. His past was complicated, his character unusual, but he
was truly THE man to save the nation. His voice lifted up the people and helped
bolster their courage. His relentless determination drove the government to
perform and produce at heights they never would have reached without him. <o:p></o:p></div>
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Larson has done a fabulous job of taking us into the inner
circle, seeing the PM, his family and those around him as human beings. Even in
wartime so much of life still goes on. The details are delightful! Turns out
the King had the British embassy in Washington DC acquire his favorite toilet
paper when there were shortages at home—something we can all relate to these
days. <o:p></o:p></div>
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The PM’s character was unique, and not always popular. He
demanded two baths a day--no matter where he was--and dictated constantly, even
from bed or the bath, to his loyal secretaries. Evenings were often late and
likely to find Churchill, cigar and drink in hand, strutting the premises in
his silk dressing gown or on the rooftop of 10 Downing Street, watching Luftwaffe
bombs fall while most Londoners took cover. <o:p></o:p></div>
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Along the way we come to know several in his circle quite well:
his daughter Mary, young and in search of love and a purpose during the war;
his daughter-in-law, Pamela, who fought a losing battle to keep her family
together despite her husband’s gambling addiction. But best of all, we meet
John Colville, the PM’s personal secretary. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Colville saw it all, both private and public, and
wrote about it in his incredible diary, a practice national security would very
much have frowned upon at the time, but which paid off nicely for historians. <o:p></o:p></div>
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This is a period I’ve always found fascinating, but even if
it’s not your ‘cuppa’ of tea, Larson is a writer who knows how to make a reader
appreciate the intimate moment, feel the fear and joy, celebrate the wins...and
grieve the losses. We owe our inestimable gratitude to the men and women within
the pages of this book, who fought against all odds to save their future. This
one will stick with you long after you read the last word. <o:p></o:p></div>
<br />Robinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08246758956292101474noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4540842059061879558.post-36711650269747378362020-03-25T10:14:00.001-06:002020-03-25T10:14:25.655-06:00Reading: Pandemic Survival Strategy?<br />
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When I find myself stuck inside hiding from a pandemic, I
kinda hope I have a good book. How about you? I thought so. That being said, I
was curious what everyone is reading. I just finished ‘Fifth Avenue, 5 a.m.’, which,
if you LOVE the movie Breakfast at Tiffany’s (I do!!) you MUST read...it’s the
behind the scenes and a lot of fun. And fun sounds good right now, right? <o:p></o:p></div>
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So I thought I’d look online for recommendations of fun
books to read. I did NOT look for books with a pandemic theme because, well, we’ve
already got that, right? But if you’re a glutton for punishment go for it! And Google/Siri/Alexa
just don’t seem to understand me when I ask for fun book, they're suggestions
were a mixed bag that made me wonder if they even have a sense of humor. I doubt
it, although Alexa will tell you joke if you ask her to. (really, try it!)<o:p></o:p></div>
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Then I looked at lists of books you simply MUST read,
darling. (Sorry...that’s Holly Golightly speaking through me...she’s hard to
shake). Now those lists are what I will call erudite, which means ‘makes you
look smart because you read them’. And guess what, you may have read some of
them: To Kill a Mockingbird, 1984, Hamlet, Animal Farm...I know, I’m dozing off
already. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Not what we’d call ‘fun’
reading, although TKAM is fabulous, just not laugh-out-loud fabulous. Okay, so
that’s not a very useful list for our current circumstances...right? <o:p></o:p></div>
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Let’s do more digging...what do you like? Sci-Fi? Romance?
Thrillers? Mystery? Well, I could go on, but the list is long and we all find
different things ‘fun’. One person’s romantic comedy is another person’s Steampunk
thriller. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It’s kind of subjective,
right? <o:p></o:p></div>
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So what do to when you need a good read and you’re stuck at
home? I’m assuming here that you have some sort of reader (Kindle, Nook, etc)
or can order your book in from Amazon, etc. If not, you can, so figure it out,
you’ve got the time. <o:p></o:p></div>
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Just how do you find THE book(s)? The best way is to ask
other readers what they are reading and enjoying and guess what, there are
nearly as many options for that as there are books. Start with <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/">Goodreads</a>. Go to
the Community tab and click on Groups. Then plug in the type of book you like.
You’ll see lots of groups that chat about books in your favorite genres. And
you can join and interact with ‘your people’, too!<o:p></o:p></div>
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So, go find your next fun read—check my past blogs for some
ideas, or even <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Robin-P.-Nolet/e/B005OTHP3M%3Fref=dbs_a_mng_rwt_scns_share">one of my books</a>, if you like. But there’s a great read out there just waiting for you and
it will hold your hand and take you away from all this shelter-in-place, lock-down,
and quarantine craziness. At least for a little while. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<br />Robinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08246758956292101474noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4540842059061879558.post-87809562147614206032019-11-20T10:45:00.000-07:002019-11-21T10:32:32.164-07:00A Short and Sweet Review: Dearie: The Remarkable Life of Julia Child by Bob Spitz<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdUz4R50320zi8SSfQHT6RmD7GEJrbySqlj3ptsQXb9zvbqdRSVneVaz_pmg6WU7hHcwDDQfxZOlHLgYvwpCO1hi2nKjTSWCIOa5_kW1LeASFNJ2uC3xH6KvTvfyB6M3Q1Dq4BRMb8PcQ/s1600/Dearie.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="500" data-original-width="338" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdUz4R50320zi8SSfQHT6RmD7GEJrbySqlj3ptsQXb9zvbqdRSVneVaz_pmg6WU7hHcwDDQfxZOlHLgYvwpCO1hi2nKjTSWCIOa5_kW1LeASFNJ2uC3xH6KvTvfyB6M3Q1Dq4BRMb8PcQ/s320/Dearie.jpg" width="216" /></a></div>
If you are a fan of all things Julia you will love this book...it might even become a personal treasure that you enjoy rereading as your beef bourguignon is percolating in the oven. If you've written Julia Child off as a skit on SNL, you'll be delightfully surprised by how accessible and personable the real woman was. And if you've ever pursued a dream, trying to make it real, this book will stick with you long after you turn the last page.<br />
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I had heard how little Julia knew about cooking before moving to France with her dear husband, Paul. (in the 'how to husband' handbook, they should put a chapter on Paul!). But I was blown away...oh my, she ate dreadfully and really, it wasn't her fault. She just hadn't met a beautiful filet of sole marinating in a luscious puddle of butter yet.<br />
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But she will, and that's so much a part of the fun of this book. Really, Julia had quite a life story going (yes, she was working in the precursor of the CIA during WWII!) before she found her life's calling. But once she found it she dove in head first and never looked back.<br />
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So much of her story is also a love story about her life with Paul, and readers will want to know more about this creative and supportive man. But it's also the story of so many cooks who learned to love their craft because of a woman who fell in love with food and then made the rest of us fall in love too.Robinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08246758956292101474noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4540842059061879558.post-32985672858141079652019-11-18T09:46:00.000-07:002019-11-18T09:46:33.911-07:00Short and Sweet Review: Wish Upon a Cowboy by Jennie Marts<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGJ0bXJhosHBfj42FXw-g809ZBKMILjCdUIpwlCffBNAkPLOuoydYDKRNA0hPszIplwum1jgx_OUEy660ZqbAEfNLqBfiVxhOBWvQ8wS84vQnDfXtWlReX8_xtIJU_cC1sXixbcMiPGzI/s1600/Cowboy.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="277" data-original-width="168" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGJ0bXJhosHBfj42FXw-g809ZBKMILjCdUIpwlCffBNAkPLOuoydYDKRNA0hPszIplwum1jgx_OUEy660ZqbAEfNLqBfiVxhOBWvQ8wS84vQnDfXtWlReX8_xtIJU_cC1sXixbcMiPGzI/s400/Cowboy.png" width="242" /></a></div>
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Harper Evans’ luck has been very bad. She trusted her mother
and that landed her in the county Jail, with custody of her son going to her
mother-in-law, who was never her fan. She’s free now and ready to reclaim her
son and make a fresh start, the only problem is she’s broke and stuck in a
Colorado mountain town with no friends and only a slim thread of hope to hang
onto. <o:p></o:p></div>
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Logan Rivers just fired his housekeeper because her idea of
keeping house had more to do with playing between the sheets than washing them.
Now he’s running the family ranch while his dad is out of town and doesn’t have
time for cleaning house and putting three squares on the table every day. Plus,
the learning disability he struggled with in his youth has led to what seems
like an insurmountable problem that could cost the ranch thousands, not to
mention what little self-respect he still has. <o:p></o:p></div>
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When Harper applies to be Logan’s new housekeeper she
decides not to tell him about her son, or her bad luck with the law. Her new
job might solve one problem for them both, but neither of them expects the
growing attraction they start to feel. Logan’s luck in love has been lousy and
he’s not anxious to be hurt again. Harper came to town looking for her son and
she can’t get him back without a steady job and a place to live. If she risks
her heart with Logan and tells him the truth does she put her future with her
son at risk? <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></div>
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Once again Ms. Marts is drawing her readers back to the cowboys
of Creedance, Colorado and readers will be happy to go on this journey.
Personally, this is my favorite book of this series thus far. The author has
written compelling characters with fleshed out back stories. Plus, with each
new book Marts adds layers to the community of Creedance and its citizens. By
now readers are feeling very much at home with the folks they’ve come to love
and root for in this little mountain town. There’s no doubt they’ll be rooting
for Harper and Logan as well. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<br />Robinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08246758956292101474noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4540842059061879558.post-29524316922764676152019-06-12T14:37:00.001-06:002019-07-04T08:09:40.982-06:00Short and Sweet Review: Circe by Madeline Miller<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhapbMEMKDOeU0sOZiZAnjLHwsKQjJigw131UyXofJPkVXHkpGp-c2aU40Muc2Ce0rdyibXhGBNWjb2RcR6B9bGZS3m0WXfXW8taQwz6XbGWVIjsPuAKtIvm_LhluqhZNnGnyqdz8k32kc/s1600/Circe.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="346" data-original-width="215" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhapbMEMKDOeU0sOZiZAnjLHwsKQjJigw131UyXofJPkVXHkpGp-c2aU40Muc2Ce0rdyibXhGBNWjb2RcR6B9bGZS3m0WXfXW8taQwz6XbGWVIjsPuAKtIvm_LhluqhZNnGnyqdz8k32kc/s320/Circe.jpg" width="198" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">I am not
normally a fan of ‘Best Of’ lists, like best books of the year, best summer
reads, etc. I find they tend toward either the depressing or the pretentious.
Why is that? Why can’t lists like that be filled with fun books that you’ll
find hard to put down and even harder to say farewell to when you reach the
end? But that’s a topic of another post.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">I’m also not
particularly into the ancient Greed gods, although I do have the basic working
knowledge a liberal arts education affords those who at least pay some
attention in class. So you can imagine how uninterested I might be in a ‘Best
Of’ book that revolves around the Greek gods. I know, right? And yet...<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><i><a href="https://www.amazon.com/CIRCE-New-York-Times-bestseller-ebook/dp/B074M5TLLJ/ref=sr_1_1?crid=22HRIKHVREYPD&keywords=circe+madeline+miller&qid=1560267138&s=gateway&sprefix=circe%2Caps%2C288&sr=8-1"><b>Circe</b></a></i> kept
showing up on list after list; it kept being mentioned here and there in
various interviews and articles. I’ve even heard it’s been optioned for a TV
series. Plus, I am a fan of <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Tasha-Alexander/e/B001H9XR12/ref=dp_byline_cont_ebooks_1"><b>Tasha Alexander’s Lady Emily mystery series</b>. </a>The
delightfully strong-willed heroine is, as her fans know, completely smitten
with the ancient Greeks, so you get a little schooling in that arena along with
a great story to boot. In other words, all the pieces were in place for me to
finally jump in and read Circe. And I’m so glad I did!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Author <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Madeline-Miller/e/B005GG116K/ref=dp_byline_cont_ebooks_1"><b>Madeline Miller</b></a> has done an ingenious job of taking the ancient gods and incorporating
their existing stories into a fully developed tale of Circe, the daughter of
Helios, the sun god, who traverses the heavens daily, spreading the sunlight
from sunrise to sunset. While he’s an awesome god, he’s not much of a dad.
Still, Circe is devoted to him and follows him everywhere. She’s the classic
odd-kid-out of the family: not as lovely as her sisters, not as talented at,
really, anything. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Circe longs
for acceptance and love, but she’s the independent type as well and she’s
discovered a growing knowledge of herbology, along with a talent for
witchcraft. When she finds love in the wrong place—with a mortal—and breaks a BIG
rule in the god realm in the process of trying to make her love acceptable,
Zeus commands she pay a price. And with gods, those prices can be steep. She’s
banished to live alone forever on a remote island. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">You’d think
she’d be devastated, but Circe finds satisfaction in being removed from the
petty concerns of the gods. She’s able to find herself and develop her talents.
Not that it’s easy, or fast. These things take time, centuries even. And gaining
wisdom from what you learn takes even longer. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">This could
have been a long slog through eternity with Circe alone on that island. But it
turns out she gets a lot of visitors. Hermes, the god of, well, a bunch of
stuff, keeps popping in. He’s full of the latest gossip and good for a turn
between the sheets. She knows he’s also reporting back to the curious gods what’s
happening on her island—gods love gossip, it seems. Pretty soon mortals come to
her shores as well. And let’s just say, you don’t want to come to her house
with anything but good intentions. She can be an unforgiving hostess. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Despite the occasional
bad guest, Circe finds herself growing more and more fond of those pesky
mortals. Aren’t they cute? Some are even lovable. The gods, however, haven’t
forgotten her and she gets a brief reprieve from island life to help out her
relatives, but you know how it is when you visit relatives, the results can be
monstrous-literally. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Eventually,
the reason you probably know Circe’s name arrives: <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Odyssey"><b>Odysseus, hero of The Odyssey</b></a>. (You read that in school, right? No? Well...me neither, but I get the
idea and you will too.) Soon, he is smitten with Circe and she with him,
although with mortals, nothing lasts forever. Her relationship with Odysseus
sets into motion all the pieces needed to pull together Circe’s lose ends.
There are still many twists and turns ahead for her and I don’t want to give
anything more away, so I’ll leave you with this. Read this book, it’s quite an
epic tale of its own. You’ll be glad you did and, like so many good books, it
will stick with you after you’re done. Plus, you’ll learn all that great god
info in a very user friendly venue—it’s a win/win.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Bottom line,
this is one of the best written, most beautifully fleshed out page turners I’ve
read in a long time. I’m in awe of Ms. Miller; she knows her stuff, both with
the Greek gods and with the art of writing. Well done!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">ps...google the different gods as you meet them, it's fun to get a quick low down on each one's story and helps you better appreciate the big picture. </span></div>
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<br />Robinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08246758956292101474noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4540842059061879558.post-24987645856198367752019-03-06T12:57:00.000-07:002019-03-06T12:57:30.820-07:00For The Love of a Good Series: Cowboy’s of Creedance Series by Jennie Marts<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQ6JCy15tzb5vN0jDSz18wVfScMqhpazX2Mg2B4uAIorB3qneNz3wspdlWcsQMcnvSpzqWxR11pJAEahAyLgtmas07mv5WQM-qyu6JfQATw8J-T25Y1skIwYxfw-UkAGdRX8EsjliYFFQ/s1600/Cowboy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="499" data-original-width="304" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQ6JCy15tzb5vN0jDSz18wVfScMqhpazX2Mg2B4uAIorB3qneNz3wspdlWcsQMcnvSpzqWxR11pJAEahAyLgtmas07mv5WQM-qyu6JfQATw8J-T25Y1skIwYxfw-UkAGdRX8EsjliYFFQ/s320/Cowboy.jpg" width="194" /></a></div>
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#3 in the series: <i><a href="https://www.amazon.com/Started-Cowboy-Cowboys-Creedence/dp/1492655759/ref=pd_bxgy_14_img_3/133-2491127-9153051?_encoding=UTF8&pd_rd_i=1492655759&pd_rd_r=ad2fd6db-4047-11e9-982f-6fea4be7bb3a&pd_rd_w=JDf07&pd_rd_wg=73fiE&pf_rd_p=6725dbd6-9917-451d-beba-16af7874e407&pf_rd_r=855WND0NH32QWDGV4SMR&psc=1&refRID=855WND0NH32QWDGV4SMR"><b>It Started With A Cowboy</b></a><o:p></o:p></i></div>
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I am late to the party with this fun cowboy/hockey romance by <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Jennie-Marts/e/B00AQYGFPY?ref=dbs_p_pbk_r00_abau_000000">Jennie Marts</a>.
I missed the first two books(<a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1492655694/ref=x_gr_w_glide_bb?ie=UTF8&tag=x_gr_w_glide_bb-20&linkCode=as2&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=1492655694&SubscriptionId=1MGPYB6YW3HWK55XCGG2"><b><i>Caught Up In a Cowboy </i></b></a>and <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1492655724/ref=x_gr_w_glide_bb?ie=UTF8&tag=x_gr_w_glide_bb-20&linkCode=as2&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=1492655724&SubscriptionId=1MGPYB6YW3HWK55XCGG2"><b><i>You Had Me At Cowboy</i></b></a>)
but I’ll be going back to catch up on the other James brothers. In the
meantime, let me tell you about this one...<o:p></o:p></div>
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Colt James is part of a large ranching family that seems to
have an endless supply of handsome sons. And not just handsome, but good guys,
in their ways. Though they’re cowboys they also love hockey, and Colt’s older
brother is a professional hockey player. Colt had his own hockey dreams but an
accident put an end to that and, even worse, an end to his confidence. In his
mind, he’s cursed and no success can come his way in life or love. <o:p></o:p></div>
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Enter Chloe Bishop, an adorable, caring school teacher with a
wicked case of ‘neat freak’. She likes a place for everything and everything in
its place. Chloe came by this obsession after surviving an abusive father and
now she’s taking so much control over her life that she doesn’t <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">have</i> much of a life beyond her classroom,
her cat and her knitting. <o:p></o:p></div>
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Colt and Chloe had met before this story began, but just
met, nothing more. Still, they made powerful impressions on each other and they
haven’t been able to stop thinking about it. Not that they’ve done anything
about it. But their ‘good guy’ and ‘caring teacher’ sides meet up to help out
some kids who want to play hockey. Now Colt and Chloe are growing closer and
starting to turn what had been daydreams and fantasies in some very steamy
encounters. <o:p></o:p></div>
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The question is, will their own insecurities get in the way
of their happiness? And what about the neighbor’s ex-husband who just got out
of prison...Chloe is all about protecting them from the same sort of abuse she suffered
as a child, while Colt is all about protecting Chloe. You know their lives will
get complicated before this story ends. <o:p></o:p></div>
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Jennie Mart’s is the author of many delightfully humorous
romances and now that she’s turned her eye on the western version with this
cowboy series she’s writing a whole new world of compelling and steamy romances
with just the right touch of humor. That makes for a fun read and, if that’s
your cup of tea, you need to check this one out! <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></div>
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<br />Robinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08246758956292101474noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4540842059061879558.post-54818019860937526492019-01-22T12:21:00.001-07:002022-12-02T16:47:11.882-07:00For The Love of a Good Series: The Charles Lenox Mystery Series by Charles Finch<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhL2VyzI7w3FIAtcUFr9elkgVSA9aNGGwCArOsO0-WolDwsZbQBxS57WwzRYhwiZt_eSqK3InZ2aYoEWwEeoIOFS7720PEK6XDUCs5kevDGBUr9MlKB4LrLlVaSZzJz5Ur6-X6R3i7i260/s1600/Lenox.png" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="191" data-original-width="250" height="244" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhL2VyzI7w3FIAtcUFr9elkgVSA9aNGGwCArOsO0-WolDwsZbQBxS57WwzRYhwiZt_eSqK3InZ2aYoEWwEeoIOFS7720PEK6XDUCs5kevDGBUr9MlKB4LrLlVaSZzJz5Ur6-X6R3i7i260/s320/Lenox.png" width="320" /></a></div>
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As promised, here is the first of my new, now-and-then
recurring blogs on great book series I have found and loved. Of course, great
series are found in all genres, and if you read my blog regularly you know I do
read a wide variety of genres. But if I’m reviewing a great series in a genre
you haven’t read, that might be the prefect entre to a new world of reading. So
give it a try! <o:p></o:p></div>
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This blog’s entry is in a genre I truly love: mysteries. You
might know that I have a cozy mystery out there called <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><a href="https://www.amazon.com/Framed-Kay-Conroy-Mystery-Book-ebook/dp/B008D6HHZ4/ref=sr_1_1?keywords=Framed%2C+Robin+Nolet&qid=1548184246&s=Kindle+Store&sr=1-1-spell">Framed( A Kay Conroy Mystery)</a>.</i> If you’re curious, click <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><a href="https://www.amazon.com/Framed-Kay-Conroy-Mystery-Book-ebook/dp/B008D6HHZ4/ref=sr_1_1?keywords=Framed%2C+Robin+Nolet&qid=1548184246&s=Kindle+Store&sr=1-1-spell">HERE</a></b> to check it out, but I’ll leave
any further chit chat on that book for another day. On to our new series:<a href="https://www.amazon.com/s?i=digital-text&rh=p_27%3ACharles+Finch&_encoding=UTF8"> </a><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><a href="https://www.amazon.com/s?i=digital-text&rh=p_27%3ACharles+Finch&_encoding=UTF8">The Charles Lenox Mystery Series by CharlesFinch</a>.</b></div>
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Set in Victorian England, our protagonist is an interesting
and complicated character. I actually reviewed the first book in this series a
couple of years ago so I’ll copy a little bit of that review from myself as an
introduction.... (click<a href="https://robinnolet.blogspot.com/2017/02/short-and-sweet-review-beautiful-blue.html"> <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">HERE</b> </a>to read
the entire review)<o:p></o:p></div>
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<span face="Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif" style="background-color: #d4ac73; font-size: 13px;"><i>Set in Victorian England, Charles is a gentleman of the upper class with Parliamentary aspirations who has discovered he has a real talent as a detective. With time and means to pursue this talent he’s already earned a reputation among his peers-and Scotland Yard-for both good and bad outcomes. But he knows his way is the way of the future so, invited or not, he doesn’t stop until the crime is solved.</i></span></div>
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<span face="Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif" style="background-color: #d4ac73; font-size: 13px;"><i>His neighbor and lifelong friend, Lady Jane, is a frequent companion with a great interest in Charles’ activities and well-being. Readers will wonder if something deeper is developing between these two and it very well may be.</i></span></div>
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<span face="Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif" style="background-color: #d4ac73; font-size: 13px;"><i>Along the way readers are treated to a fun education in Victorian England. If you are a history buff as well as a lover of a good mystery, this one’s a page turner. And the good news is, once you turn the last page, there are nine more books to go.</i></span></div>
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But guess what-the good news is there are now eleven more to
go! <u><a href="https://www.amazon.com/Charles-Finch/e/B001H6RV4O?ref=sr_ntt_srch_lnk_1&qid=1548184036&sr=1-1">Charles Finch</a></u> (interesting that he has the same first name as his hero, don't you think?) has been busy writing since that last entry and this is a series
that’s still active-meaning we can expect even more books, which is THE most
wonderful thing for readers who have fallen in love with any series. <o:p></o:p></div>
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A good series will not only entertain you with each
individual book’s story (in this case, a mystery) but will also use each book
to flesh out and build the character’s relationships. Some series seem to take
forever to do that. In part this can be because each book follows quickly on
the timeline of the last so not as much can occur in that amount of time. The
Charles Lenox mysteries expand their timelines just enough that we can begin to
live our protagonist’s life with him and the author can really develop a well
fleshed out character with a full life. <o:p></o:p></div>
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Along with Lady Jane there are several other recurring
characters whose stories, though minor, are often compelling. You’ll find
yourself hoping to see how they are doing in each new book. Definitely a good
sign for any series.<o:p></o:p></div>
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And of course, this is an historical series, so the
opportunity to learn about the era in a very entertaining way is always there.
As well as learning about the early days of detection, when the detective was
not what he/she is today and their tools were far more limited. That means our
author needs to be more creative with the story and character, unable to lean
on science for quick answers. Which of course makes for a very entertaining
read, that lucky for us readers, can last a long time with this intriguing
series.<o:p></o:p></div>
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ps...if you become a fan, be sure to follow Mr. Finch on Facebook. His posts are fun for his readers and you'll have opportunities a plenty to win free books!</div>
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<br />Robinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08246758956292101474noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4540842059061879558.post-64797181338022410502019-01-02T10:05:00.000-07:002019-01-02T10:05:10.191-07:00Short and Sweet Review: A Knight's Captive by Lana Williams<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPzWFgUyUZnB4oAgcjmtiwiH5RaM71ZKYZz-dmN8OUMyisL18ipQOgnZ4A_jk48xHT7WULPagnq_5OdI5iwqzClpam55X5HFd8On2DPqPgCUHyjWiZq9YJnoSkWowgoGd0sL77x2O4r80/s1600/a+knight+cover.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="500" data-original-width="333" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPzWFgUyUZnB4oAgcjmtiwiH5RaM71ZKYZz-dmN8OUMyisL18ipQOgnZ4A_jk48xHT7WULPagnq_5OdI5iwqzClpam55X5HFd8On2DPqPgCUHyjWiZq9YJnoSkWowgoGd0sL77x2O4r80/s320/a+knight+cover.jpg" width="213" /></a></div>
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I love<a href="https://www.amazon.com/Lana-Williams/e/B008QDP1A2/ref=dp_byline_cont_ebooks_1"> Ms. William</a>’s books but I’m particularly fond of her medievals,
so I’m delighted with the arrival of this third entry in her <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><a href="https://www.amazon.com/Lana-Williams/e/B008QDP1A2/ref=dp_byline_cont_ebooks_1">Falling For a Knight</a></i> series,<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">
<a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07M6BRX92/ref=dbs_a_def_rwt_hsch_vapi_tkin_p1_i9">A Knight’s Captive</a></i>. This series follows a family of English knights who are
determined to save Scotland, at the risk of their own lives, from the wrath of
the English king. That means stopping the Scottish Lord Graham from plotting
Scotland’s rebellion. <o:p></o:p></div>
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Graham’s plotting depends upon the marriage of his daughter,
Arabela, to Sir Rory, a particularly repulsive pawn of a man. Can you blame the
girl for deciding to run away right before the wedding? <o:p></o:p></div>
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Meanwhile, Sir Chanse de Bremont has been tasked with
kidnapping Graham’s daughter in order to stop the marriage and the rebellion.
Imagine his surprise when he finds she’s on board with the leaving-the-castle
part of the plan, but not so much the kidnapping. You’d think he could just let
her go on her own but it’s pretty clear early on that she could use some help
escaping—and surviving. After all, her father is not taking this new plan
lightly. Everyone is searching for her and now those who have helped her are at
risk as well. <o:p></o:p></div>
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While Arabela and Chanse have a common interest-avoid the
wedding-their personal motivations are not the same and each has held back some
of what it most dear to them from the other. This series has a magical
component that plays into the storyline just enough to make a difference at the
right moment, but mainly it is a major motivation for Sir Chanse to keep his
plans close, hesitant to reveal more than is absolutely necessary to Arabela. Of
course, Arabela wants to avoid marriage to the creepy and cruel Rory, but she
understands some of what her father is up to as well. And she has a backup plan
she’s not sharing. <o:p></o:p></div>
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Despite their small deceits and equal doses of stubbornness,
each begins to see the better qualities in the other and soon there’s more
attraction than just escape. As always, the author doesn’t disappoint readers;
her characters are well written making the reader feel for each of them. The
secondary characters are just enough and, often end up with a story of their
own, down the line, so pay attention! <o:p></o:p></div>
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If you are a fan of historical romance, particularly in a
medieval setting, you’ll find this an enchanting read so check it out now! <o:p></o:p></div>
<br />Robinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08246758956292101474noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4540842059061879558.post-31768154932546322962018-10-30T10:30:00.000-06:002018-10-30T10:30:14.605-06:00For the Love of a Good Series<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhygeiYcdslTrPHX_X4JyTilT2Dh0raXMDTDBeBUOOO1J0GkSoQRrkXZjsYioxmOxvbhsK7gLxnD_WcXSa0mbG6ozvfhzmFghxqyISBmkRQm_axQtrCNCdhqLyQSLMSCUZbcdKDqXo_hoo/s1600/bookstack.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="361" data-original-width="388" height="297" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhygeiYcdslTrPHX_X4JyTilT2Dh0raXMDTDBeBUOOO1J0GkSoQRrkXZjsYioxmOxvbhsK7gLxnD_WcXSa0mbG6ozvfhzmFghxqyISBmkRQm_axQtrCNCdhqLyQSLMSCUZbcdKDqXo_hoo/s320/bookstack.png" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">photo courtesy Open Book Bookstore</td></tr>
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I finished reading a book last night and now I’m wondering
what to read next? Yes, writers are avid readers too-maybe some of the most
avid! I love the luxury of letting someone else spin a story for me, not
knowing quite where the author will take me. But eventually, all good stories
come to an end. Then what?<o:p></o:p></div>
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Well, as lots of readers have learned, a good series will
keep you going and the story will (almost) never end. Of course, all stories
come to an end, whether it’s a short trilogy, like my <b><a href="https://www.amazon.com/Robin-P.-Nolet/e/B005OTHP3M/ref=sr_ntt_srch_lnk_1?qid=1540916911&sr=1-1">Keeper Series</a>,</b> or a crazy
long one like <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Janet-Evanovich/e/B000APXTY4/ref=sr_tc_2_0?qid=1540916871&sr=8-2-ent"><b>Janet Evanovich’s Stephanie Plum series</b></a>—25 and counting. If you
pace yourself, reading other authors here and there, a good book series can
keep you entertained for years, leaving you no time to bemoan that there’s
nothing to read. <o:p></o:p></div>
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Finding a good series, however, is the first step. Finding
two or three is even better, because you can jump around series while still
always having a ‘next book’ on the horizon. Not to mention that errant ‘single
title’ that begs from the bestseller list to be read. And also, let’s be honest
here, series don’t write themselves. We have to give authors time to come up
with those wonderful story ideas, write the first draft, edit, edit,
edit....edit some more and eventually, put their baby out there for all the
world to enjoy. (While they go back and come up with ideas for the next one...we
KNOW your waiting!) <o:p></o:p></div>
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With all of this in mind, I’ve decided to start another
recurring column about book series, along the lines of my recurring <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><b>‘Short and Sweet Review’</b></i> columns where I
review books I’ve read and mostly loved. The first one is coming soon, so keep
an eye out. </div>
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But in the meantime I thought I’d ask for you to share series
titles with me. What book series (absolutely any genre!) have you loved over
the years. Maybe you are still reading your way through...maybe you sigh,
remembering the bittersweet moment you finished the very last book in a
wonderful series. Yes, I’ve been there too. Don’t be shy, help your fellow readers
out.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Meanwhile, I’ll be back soon with the first series
recommendation and, over time, many more. Happy reading!<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />Robinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08246758956292101474noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4540842059061879558.post-72563350562116966112018-08-07T08:33:00.001-06:002018-08-07T08:33:43.943-06:00<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhV_USXmw_gYMrYSqfOAxCSO7iaMFOk3_nnNNTj9WH5wT2RoxvSa6rM7YHDhvcRtsap42-1meWU4iLt6FOKEoS5YwGbYuqdN453DLXbOTMSCBEFGK352PIo8DoNCHjTSxH8-jrZR7W3YLg/s1600/The+Shell+Keeper--FINAL+cover.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1050" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhV_USXmw_gYMrYSqfOAxCSO7iaMFOk3_nnNNTj9WH5wT2RoxvSa6rM7YHDhvcRtsap42-1meWU4iLt6FOKEoS5YwGbYuqdN453DLXbOTMSCBEFGK352PIo8DoNCHjTSxH8-jrZR7W3YLg/s200/The+Shell+Keeper--FINAL+cover.jpg" width="131" /></a> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5Pw56J49aWvYHLTcWUzdEJlRx5N2EpEVubTU9lvI2ESZEpYwZRxXRRSnlBI_eGCDBLPsvu-StfLZKH5VzlZbbOP_nnXrYoPSz5EGHUbmzZOi3HizKhLRAA1GUT92LQAypY6J9xlijGKw/s1600/Grace-FINAL+front+cover.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1050" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5Pw56J49aWvYHLTcWUzdEJlRx5N2EpEVubTU9lvI2ESZEpYwZRxXRRSnlBI_eGCDBLPsvu-StfLZKH5VzlZbbOP_nnXrYoPSz5EGHUbmzZOi3HizKhLRAA1GUT92LQAypY6J9xlijGKw/s200/Grace-FINAL+front+cover.jpg" width="131" /></a><br />
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<span style="color: #741b47; font-size: x-large;"><b><i> <u>Such a Deal!!!</u></i></b></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Hop over to my Amazon page and get the Kindle versions of any of my books for just 99 cents! This can't last long...can it?! Probably not, so don't dally. Click <span style="color: orange;"><a href="https://www.amazon.com/Robin-P.-Nolet/e/B005OTHP3M/ref=sr_ntt_srch_lnk_1?qid=1533585024&sr=8-1">HERE</a></span> to go <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Robin-P.-Nolet/e/B005OTHP3M/ref=sr_ntt_srch_lnk_1?qid=1533585024&sr=8-1">THERE</a>. Happy reading!</span>Robinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08246758956292101474noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4540842059061879558.post-31540499064872765502018-05-23T09:44:00.000-06:002018-05-23T09:44:13.663-06:00Short and Sweet Review: The Book of Beloved (Pluto's Snitch Mystery 1) by Carolyn Haines<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEift3cZeLpkmcRVeyRl2y-8nVmnZ65GuFBtCFH9jVdxJJivBCbt78bxgToP1wc_xikCSSILCiEU90ONfPREsRtJhkQ7XMfpEWa7cfclQOJJI66T1V_D9l778M3cvMlmAiMeQh51PfdthLM/s1600/Book.webp" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="293" data-original-width="196" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEift3cZeLpkmcRVeyRl2y-8nVmnZ65GuFBtCFH9jVdxJJivBCbt78bxgToP1wc_xikCSSILCiEU90ONfPREsRtJhkQ7XMfpEWa7cfclQOJJI66T1V_D9l778M3cvMlmAiMeQh51PfdthLM/s400/Book.webp" width="267" /></a></div>
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Yes, just like you, I am susceptible to a good book
review in the Sunday paper. That’s how I came to read ‘The <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Book-Beloved-Plutos-Snitch-ebook/dp/B01BXSFGDS/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1527087242&sr=8-1&keywords=the+book+of+beloved">Book of Beloved’ byCarolyn Haines</a>. I don’t usually go for unsettling paranormal visitors or Civil
War related tales, but something in the review made me curious and, in the end,
I guess I’m glad I read it. And I think if you are into that sort of thing, you’ll
probably love it. <o:p></o:p></div>
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That said, let’s get to the characters and the
story itself. Raissa James is a young woman in the post-WWI era with a history
of great loss that would seriously knock down anyone without a strong emotional
constitution. But she’s determined to move on with her life and find happiness,
despite lingering grief. So I was rooting for her, of course, who wouldn’t? <o:p></o:p></div>
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She’s a teacher with the summer off so she decides
to take up her Uncle’s invitation to visit him at his stately and seriously
haunted southern estate outside Mobile, Alabama. The era this novel is set in
is critical to the story. There are still unhappy losers in the battle between
the north and the south and while Civil Rights may be on the far horizon those
who support it know to keep it to themselves. For anyone with a conscience,
this is a dangerous place and time to be living.</div>
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Add in some very unhappy ghosts who do a heck of a
lot more than say ‘boo!’, a titillating scandal from the past that will
probably surprise you—maybe shock you if you are easily shocked, and muddle the
mystery with a little romance, just to make it complicated, and you end up with
a pretty good read. Personally, I tried to keep my reading to daytime hours, to
avoid being too creeped out, but I was curious to see how all of these dead
people would be appeased and sent on their spectral ways to a better place. <o:p></o:p></div>
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Did I mention this is a murder mystery too? Even
though it’s at the heart of the story, it sort of felt secondary. Maybe that’s because
I pretty much figured out whodunit very early on. I hoped our author would
surprise me, but no, I was right. That happens, but it was still a fun
resolution. And the addition about halfway through the story of a mystic
wannabe who clearly will be part of the series was just what readers needed. It
upped the ghosty part and added a fun new character who will complement our
heroine well in future books. <o:p></o:p></div>
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Yes, this looks like it’s the start of a new
series, based not only on the moniker ’Pluto’s Snitch Mystery 1’ after the title (I had
to think hard to remember why ‘Pluto’s Snitch’, so pay attention if you care
about that sort of thing) but also the end of this book is clearly the beginning
of another and the start of a series. If you like your mysteries with a bit of
the paranormal thrown in, check this one out. <o:p></o:p></div>
<br />Robinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08246758956292101474noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4540842059061879558.post-62273027697324427902018-04-16T14:51:00.000-06:002018-04-16T14:51:07.408-06:00Short and Sweet Review: The Disappeared by C.J. Box<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyatqDKgFVuBgMXL37T9FNtJj-EsAqOfn3U65AtFxxRD1x0Q6x7D0pViJJx3THo0dAHg5zYhCxZRPznFpwN3d2hbvvbZfklVZ-2XVOZKkqXvWcg3F6pMvDRIAkgLy9kTCq5BN4g6SlHdo/s1600/disappeared.webp" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="293" data-original-width="195" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyatqDKgFVuBgMXL37T9FNtJj-EsAqOfn3U65AtFxxRD1x0Q6x7D0pViJJx3THo0dAHg5zYhCxZRPznFpwN3d2hbvvbZfklVZ-2XVOZKkqXvWcg3F6pMvDRIAkgLy9kTCq5BN4g6SlHdo/s1600/disappeared.webp" /></a></div>
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I’m a huge fan of <a href="https://www.amazon.com/C.-J.-Box/e/B001IGSO0I/ref=dp_byline_cont_book_1">C.J. Box</a> and his valiant Wyoming game warden, Joe Picket. But it’s been a while since I’ve
read one of his books. You know how it is, once you’re caught up with all the
books in a series you have to wait until the next one comes out and the before
you know it, you’re binge reading <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Craig-Johnson/e/B001IODQEO/ref=sr_ntt_srch_lnk_1?qid=1523910901&sr=1-1">Longmire </a>or <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Charles-Finch/e/B001H6RV4O">Charles Lenox </a>mysteries, or maybe
rereading <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Pride-Prejudice-Jane-Austen/dp/0141439513/ref=pd_lpo_sbs_14_t_0?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1&refRID=XEMVEPXPSQG5P85NTNJ3">Pride and Prejudice </a>or <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Enders-Game-Ender-Quartet-Book-ebook/dp/B003G4W49C/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1523911060&sr=1-1&keywords=Ender%27s+Game">Ender’s Game</a>. So many books, so little time.
Anyway, Box doesn’t ‘put out’ at the speed of some authors, but the payoff is
worth the wait and that's definitely the case in <b><a href="https://www.amazon.com/Disappeared-Joe-Pickett-Novel-ebook/dp/B0738KV63H/ref=asap_bc?ie=UTF8">The Disappeared</a></b>.<o:p></o:p></div>
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If you’ve been following Joe’s
adventures you’ve been through many anxious moments for him, his family, and
his best friend, sometime <i>fugitive from the law</i>, (former special forces, master
falconer, zen master? What can this guy not do??) Nate Romanowski. </div>
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Readers will
be thrilled to hear Nate is back in this book. While each installment in this
series is great...it never feels quite whole without Nate. He made a promise
long ago to protect Joe and his family and, as readers know, for Nate, a
promise never grows old. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<span style="mso-no-proof: yes;">This time the new Govenor has
sent Joe on a mission to find a missing British woman, despite previous
attempts by federal agencies that were mysteriously and prematurely terminated.
There’s a missing game warden too, and some frustrated falconers. Oh, and a
really nasty guy who seems to always be on the fringes of whatever goes wrong. Wait!
Don’t forget the local logging company’s burner that’s supposed to be burning up
the day’s sawdust...but it smells like more than sawdust to a meddlesome little
old lady. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="mso-no-proof: yes;">Why send a game warden? And
who hates Joe enough to want to destroy him? Think back, fans of the
series...you know who, but it will become clear soon enough. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="mso-no-proof: yes;">The only upside is the
location, a very high-end dude ranch where Joe’s oldest daughter, Sheridan,
happens to work, and where she’s become very fond of a fellow wrangler.
Sheridan, as we’ve seen before, is cast in a similar mold to Joe. This time around we see her finding her feet—and maybe her future—more and more. My
fingers are crossed that the future holds more of Sheridan. And Nate, of
course, we always want some more Nate! </span><o:p></o:p></div>
<br />Robinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08246758956292101474noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4540842059061879558.post-84088333266065962182018-04-01T11:31:00.000-06:002018-04-01T10:06:43.450-06:00Princess Maddie is 11!<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOPRBkRLD4Vd2Lh66DNCxc_Y5ir1NkXp9dm6GA9njtflMKnxKPRfHpV75uANd_5MLFejImg6FU7HSk37MJ3Fw9Aj-INMDK9Dge4lLOeBT-8UtbyRxZBpNVHSHBcmLQ6LG-hTou6q65CR0/s1600/Maddie+%25282%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="473" data-original-width="355" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOPRBkRLD4Vd2Lh66DNCxc_Y5ir1NkXp9dm6GA9njtflMKnxKPRfHpV75uANd_5MLFejImg6FU7HSk37MJ3Fw9Aj-INMDK9Dge4lLOeBT-8UtbyRxZBpNVHSHBcmLQ6LG-hTou6q65CR0/s320/Maddie+%25282%2529.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Maddie</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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Today is my little girl’s 11<sup>th</sup> birthday. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Her name is Maddie and she’s a Golden
Retriever. Her little sister, Zoe, turned 3 in March, and while Maddie has
mellowed with age and dearly loves her many naps throughout the day, Zoe is a
bundle of energy and enthusiasm. <o:p></o:p></div>
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The day we brought Zoe home Maddie gave us ‘The Look’. If
you have an older pet and have brought home a puppy you know what I’m talking about. It’s the one that says “Oh
no...what have you done now?” But we couldn’t help ourselves, we are dog lovers
and we love them in pairs. Usually it takes a few months, max, before we are on
the hunt for a new puppy after one of ours crosses over that Rainbow Bridge. This
time, however, was an exception.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Maddie’s older brother, Wrigley, had passed almost 2 years
before. In the interim Maddie faced some health issues so we
didn’t want to inflict a puppy on her while she recovered. Then we had a few
road trips we wanted to take and Maddie, as our now ‘Only Dog’, came along. To
say she luxuriated in the attention and pleasure of an only dog would be a very
big understatement. We always knew, from her delicately regal trot to her incredibly loving spirit, that she was born to be our Princess. What we hadn't realized was that she was clearly also born to be an only child!<o:p></o:p></div>
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Unfortunately, we didn’t really appreciate that fact until
we brought home the new puppy. Past experience had taught us that it took two
or three weeks for the older dog to lay down the hierarchy and then settle into
a comfortable relationship with the interloper in their domain. <o:p></o:p></div>
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Maddie, in fact, was subjected to just such behavior when
she arrived, a frisky and sweet tempered 9 week old, anxious to make Wrigley
her new best friend. Wrigs had other ideas and Maddie spent a couple weeks
sneaking up and settling in behind him when he slept. She’d curl up and sleep near
his tail--where he couldn’t see her but she could still be close to him. <o:p></o:p></div>
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Maybe he could see her, and it was all part of the process.
I’ll never know for sure, but I’ve seen it many times. That’s because Zoe is something like the 15<sup>th</sup> dog so far in my life. Some came single,
some in pairs, for a while we had three BIG dogs...that’s a lot of dog around
the house! Eventually, Maddie and Wrigley were devoted to each other and Wrigs was
so sorely missed by his little sister when he was gone.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5Zl4SFcZx-pJS049dnAxOjbyzIVAkiQW7v1_06cRdoJVrdyy2PJMJUupieVh7qZC7TvEubdtzySqW90eVUYyTuiLLKTfGOTyYpgWct6inlfydiAbBaXeQEwo55DlocYZGdQ0SoM20g6o/s1600/pups%2521.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5Zl4SFcZx-pJS049dnAxOjbyzIVAkiQW7v1_06cRdoJVrdyy2PJMJUupieVh7qZC7TvEubdtzySqW90eVUYyTuiLLKTfGOTyYpgWct6inlfydiAbBaXeQEwo55DlocYZGdQ0SoM20g6o/s320/pups%2521.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Zoe and Maddie</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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I’m not sure Maddie is quite as devoted to Zoe, but they
have formed a comfortable friendship and Maddie is the first to come to her defense whenever she's encountered less than friendly dogs. Zoe adores her and is
at her bravest in the world when Maddie is beside her. I guess dogs, like
people, have their favorite friends.<br />
<br />
We, of course, are devoted to our dogs,
and I do believe they have all been devoted to us, whether we deserved it or
not. And that’s the bottom line with dogs. They’re friendship is true. They are
ever sympathetic, ever delighted to see you, ever excited just because you are
you—no questions asked. <o:p></o:p></div>
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Today, our sweet girl is 11 and we are so thankful she’s our
girl. No questions asked. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></div>
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<br />Robinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08246758956292101474noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4540842059061879558.post-40180549294106889032018-03-22T10:14:00.000-06:002018-03-22T10:14:00.853-06:00Short and Sweet Review: Death in The Floating City by Tasha Alexander<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgb7g5az8OPtRcNRU5_3GuY5qWPzes3ChD54GDO4L2fixitnZFMLh-ZL2EY5-l6lT9_p8-WBQS46xBXaR4Cl2xN-eOufPIgdyPLnEdfIuv-ORb95EJiedxwIfmoHvykysbZ2kX-V8Q-pUw/s1600/Death+in+the+floating+city.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="346" data-original-width="229" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgb7g5az8OPtRcNRU5_3GuY5qWPzes3ChD54GDO4L2fixitnZFMLh-ZL2EY5-l6lT9_p8-WBQS46xBXaR4Cl2xN-eOufPIgdyPLnEdfIuv-ORb95EJiedxwIfmoHvykysbZ2kX-V8Q-pUw/s320/Death+in+the+floating+city.jpg" width="211" /></a></div>
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<span style="mso-no-proof: yes;">For fans of history and
mystery, you’ll find the perfect mix in <u><a href="https://www.amazon.com/Tasha-Alexander/e/B001H9XR12/ref=dp_byline_cont_ebooks_1">Tasha Alexander’s</a></u> <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><a href="https://www.amazon.com/dp/B007RMYAW8/ref=cm_cr_ryp_prd_ttl_sol_0">Death in The Floating City</a></b>. This is the
seventh book in her Lady Emily series and, I know, why am I reviewing the
seventh book when you have to read six other books to get here? Because you
should! Lady Emily is a feisty Victorian gal. She started with book one of the
series, <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><a href="https://www.amazon.com/Only-Deceive-Lady-Emily-Mysteries-ebook/dp/B000OI0E0Y/ref=asap_bc?ie=UTF8">And Only to Deceive</a></b>, where
we first met Emily as a young widow on the trail of her husband’s killer. Of
course, she got her man!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="mso-no-proof: yes;">But in that book, and since,
she’s discovered the ancient Greeks, met a great guy (yep, there’s some romance
in here too-just enough) and taken us on murder mystery adventures from Paris
to Greece to Constantinople and now Venice. To visit these places in another
era is fascinating enough, and my hat is off to Ms. Alexander, her research is
impressive and well woven into the story. Trust me, you won’t feel like you are
in a boring lecture hall—you’ll eat up every word.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="mso-no-proof: yes;">I won’t reveal all about this
book, as some things you shouldn’t know yet, if you haven’t read the others.
But I will tell you that Emily has come to Venice to help an old
not-so-friendly friend whose husband has gone missing. As usual, she stays in
the best places, visits the most opulent locations as well as the seediest. And
along the way you get a feeling for the kind old vendettas that might have lead
Shakespeare to pen Romeo and Juliet.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="mso-no-proof: yes;"><a href="https://www.amazon.com/dp/B007RMYAW8/ref=cm_cr_ryp_prd_ttl_sol_0">Death in The Floating City</a></span></b><a href="https://www.amazon.com/dp/B007RMYAW8/ref=cm_cr_ryp_prd_ttl_sol_0"> </a>is a multi-layered adventure, set in the book’s
present and past, weaving the long forgotten lives of ancestors whose stories
still affect their descendants. This is truly a page turner and, if you know
what’s good for your reader’s soul, you’ll start on page one of book one, and
race to catch up. What could be more fun? <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></div>
<br />Robinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08246758956292101474noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4540842059061879558.post-38918035591275911232018-03-16T16:26:00.000-06:002018-03-16T16:26:20.344-06:00Is it Me, Or is it My Character:Fiction vs Autobiography<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXatFZcQhUIZc0Vnwb0B3tHRfkZ5T2n5Usl5DXYaQAtYNly3K9jmaZqbTVEMrbFKl3rM4TtM_ESMY71d3C4DbqwjmhnHgwTK7ffdvHjFid2Il6p6jr7Axd6EC5G2ThMLvQrOFChsf73gI/s1600/Zoe.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="676" data-original-width="810" height="267" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXatFZcQhUIZc0Vnwb0B3tHRfkZ5T2n5Usl5DXYaQAtYNly3K9jmaZqbTVEMrbFKl3rM4TtM_ESMY71d3C4DbqwjmhnHgwTK7ffdvHjFid2Il6p6jr7Axd6EC5G2ThMLvQrOFChsf73gI/s320/Zoe.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">So yes, in this case this IS my puppy...Zoe!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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When you read a book, do you wonder how much of the author’s
real life is a part of his or her characters? I know I sometimes do, but I also
realize that it’s fiction, so unless it’s autobiography, I don’t expect it’s
ALL about the author. My characters are a perfect example.<o:p></o:p></div>
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I’m currently writing the third book in the Keeper Series,
and this one will wrap up Del’s story. If you’ve read <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Shell-Keeper-Book-ebook/dp/B005KTPOPW/ref=asap_bc?ie=UTF8"><b>The Shell Keeper</b> </a>or <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Road-Back-Grace-Keeper/dp/1974096610/ref=asap_bc?ie=UTF8"><b>A Road Back to Grace</b></a>, and if you’ve followed my blogs, you may know that, yes, I
am also a Realtor, like Claire, but I’m not Claire. And I also LOVE to bake and
hang out in coffee shops, but I’m not Gwen (though it would be cool to own my
OWN coffee shop/bakery!). <o:p></o:p></div>
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The same goes for Del. I’m not really a retiring wallflower
blossoming under the encouragement of my new friends, but I do have a lot of
experience at volunteer fundraising. Think you love chocolate? Try eating your
way through sample after sample of potential chocolate fundraisers....it’s enough
to make you crave a crisp apple or maybe even broccoli. Need Christmas wrap?
Candles? School supplies? Popcorn? There’s a fundraising for that, and at least
a dozen companies with their version of it. <o:p></o:p></div>
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I imagine that’s how Del started out, putting together
fundraisers for her kids. By the time we meet her she’s moved up in the
fundraising world and is organizing a Christmas gala with a silent auction for
the local Women’s League. I’ve been a part of that sort of event as well and
know that it’s a whole new level of volunteerism. <o:p></o:p></div>
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I am thankful for parents who have the time to dedicate to
these because I understand just how much time that takes. It’s more than a full
time job while it lasts, and a good campaign chairperson has to juggle egos
along with scheduling, menus, worker bees, unhappy parents and tax deductible contributions,
including adorable golden retriever puppies, really--that was QUITE a bidding
war!<o:p></o:p></div>
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Like all writers, I bring a lifetime of experiences to the
page. I start with what I know and let my imagination run with it. I don’t
always know where my characters are going to take me—they have minds of their
own sometimes. <o:p></o:p></div>
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As I put Del’s story in print I’m excited to find out where
she will take me-and you! <o:p></o:p></div>
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(Haven't read the first two books in the Keeper Series? Click on the links on the right side of my blog to find them on Amazon!)</div>
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<br />Robinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08246758956292101474noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4540842059061879558.post-9681266077477945732018-03-10T15:26:00.000-07:002018-03-10T15:26:20.331-07:00Books That Inspire: Christy by Catherine Marshall <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7XY5Bd9U34G49mCsYxlM_yo0ZphSVxQPeCiWsZtRQZsLEEp9atHgQpi_3YcOhb1ZW5LFsUzWiYM6YXERwk9mcyiDGi6COuvcVYvdFp5Zhn8YPDywMHlPKtkE8fg8kvHAfHuAEtjItAtQ/s1600/Christy-current.webp" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="293" data-original-width="175" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7XY5Bd9U34G49mCsYxlM_yo0ZphSVxQPeCiWsZtRQZsLEEp9atHgQpi_3YcOhb1ZW5LFsUzWiYM6YXERwk9mcyiDGi6COuvcVYvdFp5Zhn8YPDywMHlPKtkE8fg8kvHAfHuAEtjItAtQ/s320/Christy-current.webp" width="191" /></a></div>
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Recently, a fellow author asked me who were the inspirational
authors of my youth? Before I even imagined writing, I read. But if I’d thought
to emulate a favorite author, it could definitely vary depending on the day. I
might have chosen, Jane Austen, or Orson Scott Card, or Willa Cather,
or...well, it’s a very long list. <o:p></o:p></div>
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But it made me think, if I had to choose a book, the first
book I remember having an impact on me as a reader, the first book that might
have made me think, dare or dream of writing, it would have to be <b><a href="https://www.amazon.com/Christy-Catherine-Marshall/dp/0380001411/ref=sr_1_3?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1520719655&sr=1-3&keywords=christy+by+catherine+marshall">Christy</a></b> by
<a href="https://www.amazon.com/Catherine-Marshall/e/B000AQ4YZ6/ref=dp_byline_cont_book_1">Catherine Marshall</a>. Marshall based the book on her mother’s life and journey as a young woman, leaving behind a comfortable life to teach the poor of the
Smokey Mountains.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The experience challenged
her and changed her. It changed Marshall’s readers as well, myself included. <o:p></o:p></div>
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It’s the kind of story mothers would probably like their
young daughters to read today, but I think it’s been a little lost in the
growing sea of literature for pre-teens, teens and young adults. Don’t get me
wrong, there’s so much great writing out there now, it’s like a renaissance in
those genres. But great stories are always great, no matter how long ago they
were written and that’s definitely the case here.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZcfVaT-5I62W2Lx5wGziPsvdCzZBNPvxfMbFqugj0GQ8Kml8HjcBvyrQp7BiqujMezMB1rZylQ61bnLE53oAwQTL3SZR4K1dcP1rkj52pwkH5EEGPFuOyLDjWXhTL_4KDxXoIGjM_tOE/s1600/Daunted.webp" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="293" data-original-width="191" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZcfVaT-5I62W2Lx5wGziPsvdCzZBNPvxfMbFqugj0GQ8Kml8HjcBvyrQp7BiqujMezMB1rZylQ61bnLE53oAwQTL3SZR4K1dcP1rkj52pwkH5EEGPFuOyLDjWXhTL_4KDxXoIGjM_tOE/s200/Daunted.webp" width="130" /></a></div>
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A more recent example is <b><a href="https://www.amazon.com/Nothing-Daunted-Unexpected-Education-Society/dp/1439176590/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1520714433&sr=1-1&keywords=nothing+daunted+dorothy+wickenden">Nothing Daunted</a>: The Unexpected
Education of Two Society Girls in the West </b>by <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Dorothy-Wickenden/e/B004S4DLOG/ref=dp_byline_cont_book_1">Dorothy Wickenden.</a> Nothing
Daunted is also written about a relative, and her friend who, in the 1800’s,
journeyed beyond their comfort zone to teach in what was to them a wild new
area--in this case, Hayden, Colorado, near Steamboat Springs. Like <b><a href="https://www.amazon.com/Christy-Catherine-Marshall/dp/0380001411/ref=sr_1_3?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1520719655&sr=1-3&keywords=christy+by+catherine+marshall">Christy</a></b>,
these women faced challenges they never imagined and found within themselves
courage and faith they never expected. Their lives were also changed for the
better. <o:p></o:p></div>
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When I was 13 I spent a good chunk of my summer sitting on that porch swing reading <b><a href="https://www.amazon.com/Christy-Catherine-Marshall/dp/0380001411/ref=sr_1_3?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1520719655&sr=1-3&keywords=christy+by+catherine+marshall">Christy</a></b> (it’s a BIG book and I’m a slow reader). I
think I may have cried when I finished it, as if I’d been parted from a dear
friend. I went on to read more Catherine Marshall (<b><a href="https://www.amazon.com/Man-Called-Peter-Story-Marshall/dp/0800793110/ref=asap_bc?ie=UTF8">A Man Called Peter</a></b>, about
her husband, who was chaplain of the senate, is also a wonderful book). Still,
Christy stuck with me. I should be so fortunate to ever write something as
timeless and touching as that story. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhi6q7yPO_g78UzKdKyAqVWVc0L464FjEbZLDnPOO-8lk1NG28UYrB_ymwa0N8FpolCBTSgNo7lvr70eFueTq30vMRD-bXdVA61e5_6Jz5yNNW-utbp5lc823Bh3fnNVbodVE8EsslE8sk/s1600/Christy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="162" data-original-width="98" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhi6q7yPO_g78UzKdKyAqVWVc0L464FjEbZLDnPOO-8lk1NG28UYrB_ymwa0N8FpolCBTSgNo7lvr70eFueTq30vMRD-bXdVA61e5_6Jz5yNNW-utbp5lc823Bh3fnNVbodVE8EsslE8sk/s1600/Christy.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The original cover (1967)<br />I love the 'feel' of this cover!<br /></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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I have a lot of little girls in my life now and I often give
them books. As they grow into their teen years I look forward to sharing
<a href="https://www.amazon.com/Christy-Catherine-Marshall/dp/0380001411/ref=sr_1_3?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1520719655&sr=1-3&keywords=christy+by+catherine+marshall">Christy</a> with them. I hope they love it as much as I did. And I hope my older,
author-self, might someday write something that challenges, inspires and
encourages them and others. It would be my gift to my 13 year-old self who
discovered a world of adventure during a sultry Midwestern summer, inside of
the covers of a good book. </div>
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<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />Robinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08246758956292101474noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4540842059061879558.post-35080072203395012662018-03-03T09:36:00.000-07:002018-03-03T09:36:04.175-07:00FREE?! Yep, The Shell Keeper is FREE!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhV_USXmw_gYMrYSqfOAxCSO7iaMFOk3_nnNNTj9WH5wT2RoxvSa6rM7YHDhvcRtsap42-1meWU4iLt6FOKEoS5YwGbYuqdN453DLXbOTMSCBEFGK352PIo8DoNCHjTSxH8-jrZR7W3YLg/s1600/The+Shell+Keeper--FINAL+cover.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1050" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhV_USXmw_gYMrYSqfOAxCSO7iaMFOk3_nnNNTj9WH5wT2RoxvSa6rM7YHDhvcRtsap42-1meWU4iLt6FOKEoS5YwGbYuqdN453DLXbOTMSCBEFGK352PIo8DoNCHjTSxH8-jrZR7W3YLg/s320/The+Shell+Keeper--FINAL+cover.jpg" width="210" /></a></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">Whoa!😲Something must be in the air because the <span style="color: red;">FREE</span> eBook promotions just keep coming! Now it's <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Shell-Keeper-Book-ebook/dp/B005KTPOPW"><b>The Shell Keeper</b></a>'s turn. If you haven't started my <u>Keeper</u> trilogy yet, or know someone who would love it, now's the time to jump in because...did I mention...the first book is <span style="color: red;">FREE</span>! </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">But not forever, you only have THREE DAYS, starting tomorrow, <span style="color: red;"><b>M</b></span><b><span style="color: red;">arch 4 through March 6</span></b> to get it free on your Kindle, then, like Cinderella's coach, it turns back into, well, not a pumpkin, but a full price eBook. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Click <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Shell-Keeper-Book-ebook/dp/B005KTPOPW"><span style="color: red;">HERE</span> </a>to once again be magically transported to my Amazon page where you can get yours. It's just like a Fairy Tale...and I guarantee a happy ending. 😊 </span>Robinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08246758956292101474noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4540842059061879558.post-83376139908811281342018-02-17T10:29:00.000-07:002018-02-17T10:30:47.700-07:00FREE Book...did I mention it's FREE?!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNarMIFw52OvIzGysmCMXBITwboS2j-lF0uYTpJ7aP2HQg8dTg2kOnVXG3hSwPtad2Cxa32HB0uaX7mFGczTKS7MSaiuFy_nCyk8k4wnRDznp5Prx_hSZisksfJMOeo8ONwOG1mfENpj0/s1600/framed+%25282%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="978" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNarMIFw52OvIzGysmCMXBITwboS2j-lF0uYTpJ7aP2HQg8dTg2kOnVXG3hSwPtad2Cxa32HB0uaX7mFGczTKS7MSaiuFy_nCyk8k4wnRDznp5Prx_hSZisksfJMOeo8ONwOG1mfENpj0/s320/framed+%25282%2529.jpg" width="195" /></a></div>
<span style="color: red;">Woohoo!</span> Looking for a fun mystery with humor and heart? Check out the first book in my <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Framed-Kay-Conroy-Mystery-Book-ebook/dp/B008D6HHZ4/ref=asap_bc?ie=UTF8"><u>Kay Conroy Mystery Series</u>, <b><u>FRAMED</u></b>! </a>Why now?? Because Amazon is running a FREE KINDLE PROMOTION for FIVE days, ending February 21st. So its FREE! As in, you can get a great book for FREE! What more could a fun loving reader ask? So go get it now!<br />
<br />
Still here?? What's the delay, you're in the middle of another book and not ready for a new one just yet? I totally understand. That's ok, get it TODAY and you can read it when you're done with that other book. I know my book is not the only book out there...but it is a fun book and, well...if you like fun mysteries what do you have to lose? Afterall, IT'S FREE!!!<br />
<br />
Okay, I've officially used up my month's alotment of exclamation points (and maybe next month's too! Opps, there goes another one). So <span style="color: red;"><a href="https://www.amazon.com/Framed-Kay-Conroy-Mystery-Book-ebook/dp/B008D6HHZ4/ref=asap_bc?ie=UTF8"><span style="color: red;">CLICK HERE</span></a> </span>and you will be magically transported to the Amazom page where you can get <b><a href="https://www.amazon.com/Framed-Kay-Conroy-Mystery-Book-ebook/dp/B008D6HHZ4/ref=asap_bc?ie=UTF8">FRAMED</a></b>. Did I mention, it's <span style="color: red;">FREE</span>!!<br />
<br />
<br />Robinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08246758956292101474noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4540842059061879558.post-84211369612395651352018-02-10T14:21:00.001-07:002018-02-10T14:21:16.963-07:00Short and Sweet Review: Falling For A Viscount by Lana Williams<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7rqu3Bukl3dW0GrgXKODEnuCgDogbEbZpUqbK0UMWXaYRo99I6m9bTCPdwDp78uwooxAv7IJLQVksDePpizlgXA41xrLv7z89BbUGCwIglh-rdvXAHG5WPBxcOk94jjMPCxc02SwziaM/s1600/Viscount.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="475" data-original-width="312" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7rqu3Bukl3dW0GrgXKODEnuCgDogbEbZpUqbK0UMWXaYRo99I6m9bTCPdwDp78uwooxAv7IJLQVksDePpizlgXA41xrLv7z89BbUGCwIglh-rdvXAHG5WPBxcOk94jjMPCxc02SwziaM/s320/Viscount.jpg" width="210" /></a></div>
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In <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Falling-Viscount-Seven-Curses-London-ebook/dp/B079CCBG7Q"><i>Falling for a Viscount</i></a> <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Lana-Williams/e/B008QDP1A2/ref=dp_byline_cont_ebooks_1">Ms. Williams</a> has created a
delightful and compelling couple for the latest adventure in her Seven Curses
of London series. <o:p></o:p></div>
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Spencer and Dalia had known each other since childhood. That’s
how Spencer knew that Dalia, though lovely and energetic, was also
frustratingly reckless. Dalia, likewise, had formed her own conclusions and
knew Spencer for the drab and overly cautious soul he was.<o:p></o:p></div>
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But when they encounter each other in the last place either
would ever have expected--a seedy location known to draw prostitutes and their
clientele--they are both forced to re-evaluate the other. Maybe Dalia’s behavior
still tends to be rash, but Spencer starts to see that she acts for a higher
purpose. Maybe Spencer still projects a dull and conservative front, but when
danger arrives he acts with the speed and skill of a professional. <o:p></o:p></div>
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As their shared interests draw them closer they each are
forced to reconsider the other, and the growing feelings that can’t be denied. <o:p></o:p></div>
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This is book number six in the series. Pick it up and let the
adventure continue! <o:p></o:p></div>
Robinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08246758956292101474noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4540842059061879558.post-19204932142187685602017-12-29T17:42:00.000-07:002017-12-29T17:42:18.638-07:00WOOHOO! Kindle Countdown starts TODAY! <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhV_USXmw_gYMrYSqfOAxCSO7iaMFOk3_nnNNTj9WH5wT2RoxvSa6rM7YHDhvcRtsap42-1meWU4iLt6FOKEoS5YwGbYuqdN453DLXbOTMSCBEFGK352PIo8DoNCHjTSxH8-jrZR7W3YLg/s1600/The+Shell+Keeper--FINAL+cover.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1050" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhV_USXmw_gYMrYSqfOAxCSO7iaMFOk3_nnNNTj9WH5wT2RoxvSa6rM7YHDhvcRtsap42-1meWU4iLt6FOKEoS5YwGbYuqdN453DLXbOTMSCBEFGK352PIo8DoNCHjTSxH8-jrZR7W3YLg/s320/The+Shell+Keeper--FINAL+cover.jpg" width="210" /></a></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">Heads up! I'm having a Kindle Countdown on the <i>The Shell Keeper</i> (first book in the Keeper Series) STARTING TODAY! So if you got a new Kindle for Christmas-or just haven't gotten around to reading it, now's the time to pop over to Amazon and get <i>The Shell Keeper </i>on your Kindle. Starting tomorrow it will be 99 cents for a few days, then it will go up to $1.99 and finally back to $2.99 on January 3. Don't wait, grab it now while it's only 99 cents! <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Shell-Keeper-Book-ebook/dp/B005KTPOPW"><span style="color: red;">CLICK HERE!</span></a></span><br />
<br />
<br />Robinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08246758956292101474noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4540842059061879558.post-64345555705792782652017-12-16T11:13:00.001-07:002017-12-16T11:13:03.044-07:00Happy Birthday Jane!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3Lgf2o5_4q8Em6i9bt8nERLQNsPx5GHTxC9vkxPOdwQzOh-clak6dppt5nN8yDGtB8D2K29Cb3S7P0dVdr_DjuJ7tvTyUpXflKlgITDjLfl43JbobMd9QvcAJnCOKZUC7yvsV0cijdIo/s1600/jane.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3Lgf2o5_4q8Em6i9bt8nERLQNsPx5GHTxC9vkxPOdwQzOh-clak6dppt5nN8yDGtB8D2K29Cb3S7P0dVdr_DjuJ7tvTyUpXflKlgITDjLfl43JbobMd9QvcAJnCOKZUC7yvsV0cijdIo/s320/jane.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
If, through some miracle of longevity, Jane Austen were still alive, she'd be 242 years old today. Think about it, just how is it that this female author, writing in a genre (the novel) that was frowned upon in her time, is still lauded today. It's not just that the books are exceedingly well written...there are other books that some might argue are greater 'works of fiction'. But Jane's stories speak so completely to the heart of humanity that they have become timeless.<br />
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While it's true, a woman's fortunes no longer hinge on 'making a good match', anyone who is between a rock and a hard place in their lives can appreciate the pictures her words drew of characters who hoped and dreamed, despite the odds, who sometimes felt resigned or beaten, but ultimately through fate or their own efforts, found what they longed for.<br />
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In Jane's day, a woman had very little control over these things, and it wasn't all about having the comfort of a nice home, a hopefully loving husband and financial security. It might truly be about having a home at all and some sort of security, making her dependent upon the charity of others for any comfort in life.<br />
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Things have certainly changed! But Jane is a stunning example of a woman who made her own choices, as best we can tell from what history has handed down to her readers. In her later years her writing did offer financial support for herself and her family. But she found this success with a kindly yet biting wit that still comes through in her pages. Take as proof the opening sentence of '<a href="https://www.amazon.com/Pride-Prejudice-Jane-Austen/dp/0141439513/ref=la_B000APWOKO_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1513447595&sr=1-1">Pride and Prejudice</a>'...<br />
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<i>"It is a truth universally acknowledged, that a single man in possession of a good fortune, must be in want of a wife." </i><br />
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In those first few words she sums of the mores of the time, makes fun of them, and establishes one of the themes of the book. When you understand where she is writing from, you understand that that is not some weighty well of words that leaves you pondering--it should make you laugh. I'm sure it did her, and those who read it at the time.<br />
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Writing in and for her time is part of what made her timeless. She was born in England at the start of the American Revolution and during her life her country was at war, either with America or France, more often than not. Open criticism of traditional values, culture or politics could have serious consequences for yourself and your family. She toed the line nicely between gently prodding society and committing treason.<br />
<br />
True, she probably would have fit in well with the 'Me Too' movement, as proposed in a recent <a href="https://www.washingtonpost.com/entertainment/books/jane-austen-a-role-model-for-the-metoo-generation/2017/12/14/4aedacc2-df76-11e7-8679-a9728984779c_story.html?utm_term=.0946130dd916">Washington Post article</a>, but there was so much more to her decisions. While she may have chaffed at the royal request to dedicate her book <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Emma-Jane-Austen-ebook/dp/B0083Z3O8Y/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1513447925&sr=1-1&keywords=emma">'Emma'</a> to the notoriously randy prince regent, she was targeting so much more than men behaving badly. She had society in her sites and she hit her target so incredibly well, and with both humor and insight, that both Jane, and her work remain relevant 242 years later.<br />
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Happy Birthday Jane!<br />
<br />Robinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08246758956292101474noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4540842059061879558.post-13020204665968190862017-12-08T13:05:00.001-07:002017-12-08T13:05:30.376-07:00A Few Writer's Habits, Tools and Favorite Foods!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGoIJW8lgnHPICvggu_hAsMX8JXp5KJlTfupQH9CB1nRaiMgkHwjqoYrEynh4U_l4j6NOKnR6_o20UOnzNvksUWOA3IgY9QxAqQ6eI22bkHVBNNljohhfNv97cNKxQe43PKNquHxWEqs4/s1600/Agatha+Christie+at+her+typewriter.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="358" data-original-width="432" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGoIJW8lgnHPICvggu_hAsMX8JXp5KJlTfupQH9CB1nRaiMgkHwjqoYrEynh4U_l4j6NOKnR6_o20UOnzNvksUWOA3IgY9QxAqQ6eI22bkHVBNNljohhfNv97cNKxQe43PKNquHxWEqs4/s320/Agatha+Christie+at+her+typewriter.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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Lately I’ve been reading about the writing habits of
different authors on Tony Rich’s extremely entertaining blog, <a href="http://tonyriches.blogspot.co.uk/2014/05/daphne-du-mauriers-writing-habits.html">The Writing Desk</a>.
It’s definitely a fun ‘time killer’ for readers and writers alike, if you’re
looking for something like that.<o:p></o:p></div>
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And it’s really a fascinating topic. I have a feeling there’s
probably a book to be written on snacking habits alone! I personally know
authors who set up their writing table with Twizzlers and Oreos—that’s a little
too much sugar for my brain. I tend toward tea or coffee. Daphne Du Maurier
stoked her creativity with cigarettes and Fox’s Glacier Mints. Agatha Christie,
who grew up in Devon, was so partial to the heavy cream of the region that she
kept a cup by her typewriter to sip as she wrote. (I can feel my arteries hardening even as I write
that sentence!) <o:p></o:p></div>
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Of course, there’s a lot of strong coffee going down too,
but many, Stephen King included, start the day with tea. Michael Crichton,
however, was thinking ahead by having a ham and cheese sandwich pre-made and sitting
alongside a diet coke in his fridge, ready for lunch. I wonder if he had a
certain word count he had to hit before he allowed himself to break for lunch. <o:p></o:p></div>
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Ultimately, no matter the snack, they all had to actually
sit still and WRITE, how they get there, and how they actually transferred
their thoughts to the written page, has as many variations as snowflakes in a
storm. <o:p></o:p></div>
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Hemingway liked to wake early and write before he did
anything else-including dressing. He wrote longhand in small notebooks, on
paper, in coffee shops or in his bedroom/office, keeping a daily tally of his
word count (500 was the goal...I’m assuming they were 500 VERY good words!).
Typing was often done standing up, which might become a new norm with some of
the pop-up style desk tops that are out there now. I can’t blame any author who
sits for hours at a time if they enjoyed standing and stretching their legs now
and then while writing too. <o:p></o:p></div>
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Agatha Christie kept voluminous notebooks to catalog
multiple ideas...not always in any recognizable order. She’d often go on long
walks, particularly when she stayed at her country home, Greenway, which was
near the sea. She’d compose aloud, work out dialogue, and then return home to
her trusty Remington Victor T portable typewriter. <o:p></o:p></div>
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Naturally, Jane Austen took quill in hand to write. History(and
Jane’s relatives) has passed down scant details of her process, but we do know
she often wrote at a very small table and in her later years at Chawton Cottage,
a home provided by her brother that she shared with her mother and sister, Cassandra,
she used a writing box. It had a lid that tilted up to write on and the bottom opened
to store her pages. I think Jane was something of a ‘pantser’, to a point. By
which I mean she dove right into her stories and wrote ‘by the seat of her
pants’, rather than voluminous pre-plotting. As a result, many of the pages
that remain are sometimes thickly edited with multiple lines crossed out and
new sections inserted. <o:p></o:p></div>
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Despite the advent of the computer age, many authors still
love to write longhand. Some, like Stephen King, prefer the feel of the
fountain pen-a marvelous instrument I also love...though not for composing
fiction. J.K. Rowling wrote longhand because she couldn’t afford a typewriter
or computer, and still writes her first drafts that way. It must be a tactile
feel, the physical transfer of thought to pen to page, and for many it still
works best. <o:p></o:p></div>
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These days, you eventually have to sit at the computer and
create the document that will become your book. Like Christie, I’m a lover of notebooks filled
with thoughts, scene ideas, research, etc.
But when it comes to actually writing I need that keyboard. For me, I
just can’t write fast enough to get my words down longhand. I’ve tried
dictating...but as Christie found out, the sound of your voice is an odd
sensation that doesn’t quite go with the story. For me, the words flow fastest,
smoothest, and most creatively when my fingers are on a keyboard. <o:p></o:p></div>
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Of course...there are those days when words just won’t come.
But that’s a topic for another blog! <o:p></o:p></div>
Robinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08246758956292101474noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4540842059061879558.post-1429740802734791302017-11-18T17:57:00.001-07:002017-11-18T17:57:30.757-07:00Research...Not Necessarily a 'Necessary Evil'!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHTjUIbbnYlFT8cr4mm6uQ0zxJ5M_Oc9baBnxTLdOoFPSUzXxgXzyqyeLXzo0F4XKaFRcNmhsiefMPeTH1LDwdhiL1KNOzTVM1vCBeHVAFU5LB0ok96fAKjUSsiZ5lv_5YuMPY96ltr8c/s1600/grapes.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="406" data-original-width="612" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHTjUIbbnYlFT8cr4mm6uQ0zxJ5M_Oc9baBnxTLdOoFPSUzXxgXzyqyeLXzo0F4XKaFRcNmhsiefMPeTH1LDwdhiL1KNOzTVM1vCBeHVAFU5LB0ok96fAKjUSsiZ5lv_5YuMPY96ltr8c/s320/grapes.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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One of the things I envy other writers is the research that
must have gone into some of their books. I have several historical series that
I love reading not just for the characters and plots, but for the details of
the periods in which they are set. Whether it’s <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Beautiful-Blue-Death-Charles-Mysteries-ebook/dp/B003JH866G/ref=sr_1_3?s=digital-text&ie=UTF8&qid=1511052924&sr=1-3&keywords=charles+finch+charles+lenox+mysteries">Charles Finch’s Charles Lenox Victorianmysteries</a> or<a href="https://www.amazon.com/Knights-Temptation-Falling-Knight-Book-ebook/dp/B074NQX3JW/ref=la_B008QDP1A2_1_3?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1511052979&sr=1-3"> Lana William’s Medieval romances</a> or the Scotland of Diana Gabaldon’s
<i><a href="https://www.amazon.com/Outlander-Novel-Book-1-ebook/dp/B000FC2L1O/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1511052847&sr=8-1&keywords=outlander">Outlander</a></i> , I never get tired of
stepping into another time along with a great story.<o:p></o:p></div>
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But history isn’t the only thing authors might research. In <i><a href="https://www.amazon.com/Road-Back-Grace-Keeper-Book-ebook/dp/B075J91BN3/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1511052887&sr=8-1&keywords=a+road+back+to+grace">A Road Back to Grace</a></i>, I didn’t need to
step back in time since it’s a contemporary tale. But I did need to learn a
little more about wine making. The main character, Claire, is a lover of all
things red (cabernet, merlot, etc.), although I haven’t actually written her
turning down white or rose...so it’s hard to say where that line is, or even IF
it is! <o:p></o:p></div>
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How fortunate for Claire that she fell for a guy who owned a
Colorado winery and vineyard. As an ‘almost’ native of Colorado, I was already
familiar with our western slope wineries in the <a href="http://visitpalisade.com/">Palisade</a> area, and I knew the
valley beneath the sandstone Book Cliff mountains, that is nurtured by the
Colorado River. It was a natural setting
for my book, with a few tweaks here and there. But what did I actually KNOW
about making wine?<o:p></o:p></div>
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As some of you may know, my sons own a brewery...so I
already had some appreciation of what may go into it. Still, some research was
called for and, frankly, I can’t say it wasn’t fun—it was! Mr. Google had links
to tons of info, plus I made connections with a few wineries I’d never heard of
before and learned, through them, more about the process. I never was able to
go for anything ‘hands-on’, unfortunately...but I’m hoping someday to make up
for that.<o:p></o:p></div>
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In the meantime, I’m literally savoring the fruits of that
labor (aside for the book), and looking forward to my next research
project...but that’s another blog. <o:p></o:p></div>
Robinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08246758956292101474noreply@blogger.com0