I got this from the author through Goodreads a few months back but have only gotten to read this recently. This is a fast-paced story and I was done in one sitting.  A guy left heartbroken and without any explanation. The girl came back and end up right on the guy's office for a job interview. Spell A-W-K-W-A-R-D. A romance in the middle of an Egyptian intrigue and espionage. Will these two live happily-ever-after? What's unique about this story is the setting. This is set in Egypt. A land of great history and a cradle of civilization. I think it's an exotic place, rich with culture and tradition. It gives color and a rich backdrop for the story.  The story is not so unique but it has a character of its own. I think the male protagonist Nadim, is defined by his being hung up on his last relationship. He can't seem to move on from the rejection. He needed closure and answers to the many questions that have been plaguing him. The reasons for Heidi for leaving Nadim made a very good twist to this supposedly love story. From the time Heidi reappeared in Nadim's life, the story takes a turn into a deadly chase where Nadim is caught in the middle. It's actually a good story but there seems to be something missing. The pacing is very good and the fact that it can be finished in one go is a plus. I think I agree with one of the reviews that said "this would turn out a lot better after another phase of editing". I think the start was a bit forced. It seemed to not flow naturally. Nadim's character was not someone I would sympathize or empathize with. I think his character needed more depth or background so the readers will be able to connect with him. On the other hand, Heidi's character is easier to understand and like. There was enough information and background to go with that lead to her decisions. I give this 3/5 playing cards. The story is good but it needs polishing.  Thank you again, Tarek Refaat for the copy. Freedom is not just about breaking away from everything and doing everything alone. Freedom is, to a great extent, trying to make the choices that suit you best so that you won't regret them. - Tarek Refaat, Broken Shadows -

Lately, I started signing up for cover reveals. Please check out the Book Blitz tab. I know all you book bloggers out there are familiar with book cover reveals. And covers are really important to sell books, though not as much as the quality of the writing inside. The first cover reveal I signed up for was The Bulletproof Boy by Loretta Lost which was hosted by xpressobooktours.com. This book is the sequel to The Fireproof Girl. I also got the review copy from xpresso books. Thank you again. The Fireproof Girl is a story of Sophie Shields, a CIA cryptanalyst. She is a product of the system, a foster child. She had a very difficult life and had been to abusive foster homes growing up that she does not have a lot of friends and people she trusts. Until, she met Cole Hunter. Cole Hunter was also adopted by the same foster parents that adopted Sophie. Cole became the only person she can trust and she will do anything for Cole. Now, both grown-up, Cole and Sophie have not been in touch with other much. The only communication was in the form of letters but even that has stopped lately and Sophie doesn't know why. Sophie must find out. Wow! The writing in this book is just superb. Loretta Lost has this amazing skill of drawing out her readers' curiosity and keeping it until the end. I never wanted to put the book down. And I was so disappointed when it ended because I don't have a copy of The Bulletproof Boy yet. I want to get on with my reading as if the first book never ended. It was a good decision to sign up to review this and for the cover reveal of the next book. I just knew, deep inside that these books will be delicious reads. I am thankful that I listened to my instincts. They never fail me. Ever. After reading The Fireproof Girl, I was already thinking of adding Loretta Lost to my favorite authors. She is that awesome that I was wondering why I had not met her sooner. She is a great find. The Fireproof Girl has stumped me in a good way. I thought there was a hint of paranormal aspect in this book and I was dying to find out. The way it was written, it kept me asking is there? Really. But as confounded as I was, it soon became clearer and the ending made it even more. I was so lost in this book. Lost that I just wanted to bask in it. But glad to go back to real life as I don't think I can survive all the horrible experiences that took place in this book. The horror and the pain is just too real. Yes, everything that happened here happens in the real world. A lot of Sophies and Coles are out there, living in hell. My heart bleeds out for all of them. The same way, I am thankful that I grew up with both of my parents love even though we are not rich but still I cannot trade them for anything.  I give the book all the dragon balls that Goku has. Like a fire, it has consumed me and I want more. This is definitely one of the best books released this year. I think Loretta Lost is made of the same cloth as my favorite authors like Clive Cussler, Dick Francis, Dorothy Gilman and Steve Berry. They can spin engrossing tales and you just want to get lost in them. Never-minding if you ever come out or not.  I think I will be stalking Loretta Lost now to make sure I get to read all her works. I am like that. When I meet a new author with astounding books, I make sure I get my hands on all his/her books. I am a clingy fan. Watch out Loretta Lost! Why should others have a dominion over my life because of a number? I can do more than they can. I can make better decisions. But being young, and homeless-it makes me so dependent, like I'm not even a person. I have to take so much crap. I don't want to be anyone's possession anymore. I want to belong to myself and be...free. - Loretta Lost, The Fireproof Girl -

This is Jamie Brook Thompson's version of the classic Beauty and the Beast. Unlike Disney's re-imagined movie, this is a very modern take on the oldie-but-goodie tale. If I was impressed with the author's Cinderella version, I was not so by this one but it goes without saying that this story has its own merits.  Belle here is a beautician. If I think about it, it's not so unexpected considering the story. I wished she were something else. Something more surprising like Cindee's character in Cinderella. I just thought it was too obvious that was what Belle's character would be like. I just didn't find anything so noteworthy about it. Beast on the other hand, Adam Anderson in this story, is very interesting, if not mysterious. The kind of beast that he portrayed here is so curious and it drew me in. I wanted to know how his character is in parallel to the original one. Another thing I liked about the story is how Belle and Adam met. It was akin to the wolf scene in the latest movie, only Belle was the one surrounded by the dogs and not his father.  I did enjoy this story. It was so straight-forward and there was no beating around the bush. Their love story progressed rapidly. It was like a May-December love affair yet you can feel how the characters were so drawn to each other that you will tend to agree with the immediate plans to tie the knot.  I give this 3.5/5 Darth Vader helmets. As I have said, I just wished Belle's character was more unexpected and as bad-ass as that of Cindee in the first book of this series. I just thought she could have been more than just being a beautician. She was feisty though. Nevertheless, Belle did step-up and showed that she wasn't some weak woman who was just going to take all the beating. That was a redeeming quality that put a happy-ever-after ending to this story. Thank you again, Kathy of ebooksforreview.com for the copy. Other books by the author: Cinderella: A Real Life Fairytale (Silver Creek Novella Series #1) The Frogg Princess: A Real Life Fairytale (Silver Creek Novella Series #3)

I got this book from Netgalley. Yes, the title got me curious. Aren't you? Unrequited?  This story isn't like the adventures the more popular Alice had. This is a bit sad and you will find yourself empathizing with Alice, especially if you have had an unrequited love. Yes, this is about unrequited love. Have you had one? I think, once in our lifetime, each of us will have to go through this type of unnecessary yet unavoidable emotion. It is not unheard of nor is it a phenomenal occurrence. Every person will at least have this kind of heartache or a recipient of this unwanted or undeserved feeling. Like Alice in Wonderland, Alice here did fall but not into a rabbit hole but fall or to be correct, fell in love with the fiance of her best friend. What is more tragic than that? There is. Here it comes. As it turned out, she fell again for another guy. This time a guy who had become her best friend yet does not want to fall in love with her. Ouch! This seemed like a hopeless case, right or is Alice the hopeless one? In more ways than one, my heart bleeds as Alice's heart was broken, twice. I can relate to her experiences in some ways, though I have not specifically fallen in love with my best friend's boy friend. Honestly, I did fell in love with a guy who I had gotten very close to but when our friends started teasing us, he admitted that he was not ready for another relationship. Believable, because he just found out that his long-time girlfriend has found another love and she never even bothered to tell him. He told me that he will be ready in two years. I was not really hopeful and I did not wait around for two years to find out. I left and worked in another city for seven years. When I moved back, I bumped into him and it was just like the song says--"I remember the boy but I don't remember the feeling, anymore." It is really difficult and excruciating moving on from an unrequited love. Keeping that feeling hidden alone is enough to induce a coronary, much less proclaiming it only to be rejected. That is way more than double jeopardy. More like double collateral damage. I am not sure if I would still have a heart left after that. Just like what happened to Alice. But then, just like they say, everything happens for a reason and for its own season. Timing. There is such a thing as perfect timing. There are people who come into our lives for a purpose and for a specific time. Some of them are not meant to stay. Or meant to be. As sad as the title is, this isn't all a tear-jerker. This story will also make you hopeful and not scared to fall in love. Yes, fall in love again. Hopefully, not unrequited the next time. This is a true example that the best relationships often start with friendships. I would love to fall in love with my best friend. Sadly, no (male) one matches that designation currently or for the last ten years. Maybe, I will have to make one. After all, relationships are not all measured by the length of time you've known each other (like in the story) but by the depth and intensity of the experiences you have shared and battled through together. There is still hope, yet. I give this book 5/5 stunning pictures of Niagara Falls. Everyone is powerless against love. It's like stopping a raging waterfall. Like the saying goes, better to have loved than to have not loved at all. Not being in a relationship doesn't mean, you won't have your heart broken. There are no guarantees, especially if you have an unrequited love.  What I love about this book is that the author perfectly captured and described in detail the exact vulnerability and heartache anyone has to go through in an unrequited love. The pain, the what if's, the maybe's and the daydreams are all vividly rounded up that you can't help but relive the pain of your own exhausting, tormenting and harsh unrequited experience, making Alice a kindred-spirit.  And you'll never know that being in unrequited love is a heart-breaking, soul-destroying thing. - Sarah Louise Smith, Unrequited Alice -   Thanks again, Netgalley for the copy. I am looking forward to reading more heartfelt stories from Miss Sarah Louise Smith.

I got this book from Library Thing. I think this was part of the first group of books I signed up to review the first time I found Library Thing. I was indiscriminate on my clicking to request for the titles. It was not guaranteed that everyone who requested will get a copy. Fortunate for me, I got about more than ten of the books I signed up for.  I read this last month but was unable to write a review because I  was playing catch up with my reading. It was only this week that I get to catch up on my growing pending reviews. I don't have deadlines anymore since I have temporarily stopped signing for blog tours so I can focus more on my mounting TBR. I know, excuses, excuses. This book was originally titled Waiting for Rio. But when I checked Amazon while writing this review, I found that this was renamed to Fast Friends. How I found out was the new title came up when I searched using the old on. And on Goodreads it was noted that the title was changed. Aside from the title change, I also just found out that this is the third book in the series. I have not read the previous two books. To be honest, this is just another romance story for me. I did not find anything extraordinary about the story. Maybe, I can't relate to the story or the story was just not able to touch me in a special way. The characters were annoying rather than inspiring. Nothing really stood out for me that would make this book memorable. I am sorry but this book just did not stir any emotions for me. What I found interesting though was Rio and Stacy's witty exchange of difficult words to determine who's smarter between them. Other than that, I was not really into the story.  I give this 2/5 trailer homes. I know the author is known for bestselling stories but I think this one is just not one for me. I am curious as to what other stories the author has. I want to read them. I want to know if I was just not out of sorts while I was reading this one. Money isn't everything. It is when you don't have it.  - Marie Cole, Waiting  Rio -  Thank you again, Library Thing and Marie Cole for the copy.

The author of this book sent me a message last December 2016 through this blog asking if I wanted to review this book. I read the blurb and agreed. I love reading detective stories, crime and mysteries so this book is right up my alley. I have not heard of Rick Sulik before he messaged me. This story is a mix of crime with verses of poetry thrown in the right places and of superstition. This story talked about reincarnation, past lives, and retribution for the wrongs done in the previous lives. It touched on karma. The sins of past ultimately have a way of catching up to make amends.  At first, the style of writing threw me a bit but eventually, I got used to it. The mix of reincarnation in the plot was a really good surprise. It gave the story a different and distinct flavor. I love happy endings and righting wrongs so I was really rooting for Sean Jamison to find the killer and make him pay for all the crimes he has committed. And to finally be reunited with his long-lost beloved Laura. I liked how the story ended.  My only concern was the story started a bit slow and I think it took a bit for the past and the present to converge. But the author made up for it when everything was thoroughly explained near the end.  I give the book 3.5/5 red coats. The reincarnation bit was really fascinating. I wish in real life we could remember a few things in our past lives to at least understand a part of ourselves. I would love to remember who I was and what happened to me in my former lives if reincarnation were true. And if there is that one person for me like Laura and Sean, I too would want to find that same person in this life. ...why would a perfectly healthy individual commit suicide while a terminal cancer patient fights to survive every day? - Rick Sulik, Death Unmasked -

This is one of those dystopian, sci-fi stories that I really enjoyed. Not too make-believe or too outrageous to be true.  The story is set in the future where couples who want to have kids need to get a permit from the government. Population is tightly controlled that any unauthorized births should be terminated. Slips are those unauthorized births or any illegals that have managed to survive beyond their second birthday and are viewed to be a threat to national security. In theory, this may seem like a very good solution to control population but then moral questions also arise like the value of human life.  Like most theories setup to control something, it is good in writing but then when the application and the real situation arises, it is an altogether different scenario. The whole story revolved around the issue of enforcing your duty and protecting your personal interests, specifically, your family. Which is more important, your immediate family or keeping your job? The same question was also answered in this story and I agree with answer. Nothing is more important than life and family. A job can be taken away anytime. No one is irreplaceable. Everyone is as good as his last shift. But family is family. There's no other. They cannot be returned nor exchanged, much less replaceable. This perfectly exemplifies as to how far and what length would a father or a parent will go to protect his son.  For a dystopian, this was not so grim. In fact, it was hopeful. It has probably more to do with one of the characters, the very influential head of PopCon as a main participant in making the whole you-and-me-against-the-world plot work. In most stories, this influential figure is supposed to be vicious and hell-bent on enforcing the rules, but it was not to be in this story. The fact that the same person entrusted to enforce the law was actually the one breaking it and he had good reasons. His motives were well-founded and if I were in his place, I'd do the exact same thing. Protect my family. Keep my job so I could protect my family better. A very smart move. I give the story 5/5 superhero wrist watches. This story has a cast of very strong characters. A loving and protective father. Friends who are loyal and very resourceful. The main character Benson Kelly is a smart and lucky boy. Lucky because of his background, where he came from, which contributed to his character formation.  He is lucky to have great friends who stuck with him even if their lives were also in danger. This story doles out a lot of lessons. Aside from the obvious moral lesson and sanctity of life, it also stresses the importance of friendships and family.  Thank you again, David Estes for the copy. But that's the thing about memories: The ones you never forget are either the ones you hate or love the most. - David Estes, Slip -

This is the sequel to Chasing Someday. I am a member of the author's ARC team so I get a copy of her new books to review. Thank you again, Lindzee Armstrong.  As I have mentioned, this is the next book after Chasing Someday. This is two years after Sienna delivered her baby and had it adopted. She met a cute guy in college named Aaron and he hated his birth mother for giving him up for adoption. The last thing Sienna needs is a guy with baggage. She can't afford any distraction now that she is getting another shot at Juilliard--her ultimate dream. She can't afford to lose it the second time. How would she deal with Aaron and Juilliard? Who would she choose--Arron or Juilliard? I think this story is not as heavy and emotional as the first one but it has its own moments. Sienna has finally come to terms with her experiences at such a young age. She has accepted that she has to postpone her greatest dream as consequences of her actions. But she now feels better knowing that her baby is in very good hands and she's even allowed to visit and be part of the baby's life. What more could she ask for? Now, she has to focus on her self and her studies and practice more to get to Juilliard. This time there's no way anything or anyone is stopping her. That's what she thought. Sienna did not expect to fall in love and more so with someone who has an issue with being adopted. Just her luck! Of all the people she will meet and fall in love with, it has to be with someone who would hate her if he found out that she did the same thing. This is some kind of a sick joke, right?  It seems that Sienna is not only going to deal with Aaron and her baggage but also with the coming back into the picture of her ex--Dane. Yes, her baby-daddy. When it rains, it really pours! Seems like Sienna just got her hands really full and the last thing she needs is again, people who would only distract her and again might lead her to lose Juilliard again. Not this time. I commend Sienna for being a responsible adult this time around and knowing her priorities. She is sticking to her priorities, even though it's not easy and she might have her heart broken again. She deserves to get in to Juilliard and she had made enough sacrifices to just let other distractions ruin her again. I give this book 4/5 pianos. Sienna deserves a happy ending. Though the story did not exactly tell if she did get in to Juilliard, but I would want to think that she did. She had the guy and her dream. She had worked hard for it and she also had laid bare her heart out to the man she loved, asking only to be understood for the decisions she had made. She was right in saying that what happened to her and her son is not the same as Aaron's. In the end, love overruled everything and she got her very happy-ever-after. After all, Sienna did what she thought what was best for her and the baby. I don't think it should be taken against her. I am also glad that Aaron finally has seen the reason why Sienna and his mom gave up their kids for adoption. Understanding has finally dawned on Aaron and he realized what odds his mom were facing when she had him at such a very young age. Sienna and Aaron were smart enough to realize that their pasts should not get in the way of their future together. They both deserved to be happy.  Pasts had a tendency to follow a person, no matter how much that person changed. - Lindzee Armstrong, Tomorrow's Lullaby -

The author sent me a message through my blog telling me that this book was free. I replied back that I was interested to review her book. This is a psychological thriller. The author mentioned in her email that she intentionally wrote the chapter in small portions she called as gulps. She described this book as a quick-read with leaps in consciousness. The Twilight Tsunami is about the lives of social workers working with foster kids. This chronicled their daily lives as they try to help and make a difference in the world by making it a better place, one child at a time. This talked about their struggles, their pains and the burdens they have to bear trying to make a child's life better. How the emotional toll caused by the stresses at work has taken hold and encroached in their personal lives permanently and irreversibly. This is an eye-opener. Hopefully, people in the government, especially those who can affect the legislation and budget allocations can do something to help these social workers and the kids who desperately needed love and care. The first few chapters of the book detailed all the horrors of a social workers life. The hurts and the dangers, not to mention the hazard that comes with the nature of the job. Add in a jealous co-worker out to kick every one that comes in her way to the top. The story started as sad and dark. It showed the horrors of the foster-care system right at the start. If you are of a faint heart you would feel disappointed and turned off. It would appear that this was a very sad story and would make you think twice if you want to continue perusing the pages. I was honestly a bit turned off and it kind of started to dampen my spirits as well. I can't help but feel downcast after reading bad news after bad news.  But this book is not filled with all bad news until the end. In fact, what I really liked about this was that everything got resolved. All issues and characters that were having a hard time here eventually find the strength to change things. This story showed a lot of things. It proved that people who work in social services are people with really great hearts. Most of them took on this kind of job because of their genuine desire and wish to help find a home for these abandoned kids. I guess, it's rare for a social worker to have no compassion for their charges. I think Marjorie represents the other side of the coin. Those who think they are helping by following the rules and mandates but also forgetting the most important part of the job--compassion. These kids and their families are not just case numbers but human beings and they need all the help, compassion and support they need to fight their demons to change their lives. And I do agree, I think it is apparent that in all the cases, the kids are always the ones who end up the victims. There are no laws that protect them and cater to their welfare. A lot of things mentioned in here are hard facts and I guess with the author putting them out there is one step of doing something about them. This is the first time I've read about the lives of social care workers. We can never underestimate the power of information getting to the right person who actually has the power to change things -especially about the plight of foster kids. I think one of the endings should have included Carol starting that youth program and the rest of the social workers like Christine, Gray, Mandy and Karen also helping her with it. I think they would all do what they really set out to do, why they wanted to work as social workers. I give the book 4/5 feeding bottles. Thanks again, Shelby Lyndon-Heath for giving me a chance to read this book. I hope that you continue to write books like this that help spread awareness of issues and subjects that are mostly taken for granted or assumed of less importance. More power to all the authors who make it their life's work to expose the sad plight of the less fortunate and writing about issues that people try so hard not to discuss like domestic violence, bullying, etc. Where did parents' love go to when their children slipped out of their lives, never to return? - Shelby Londyn-Heath, The Twilight Tsunami -

This is my first time to read Jonathan Dunne. I got his book as a member giveaway in Library Thing. You may ask, is this book talking about a real elephant or just a metaphor? Like the famous elephant in the room?  This story is about Mick Munroe. He works at the zoo and is the keeper of the elephants. One of his charges is Sinbad, a 42-year old Indian elephant which is also the oldest elephant in the world. Sinbad is his best friend. Sinbad listens to Mick's stories and concerns. Sinbad according to Mick is a very good listener. This is a very touching and heroic story of Mick and Sinbad. Mick is suffering from Alzheimer's and a depression that he was trying to deal, after the death of his wife. His only way of coping with the depression is working and caring for the elephants. Until he was forced to retire because he forgot to lock the enclosure and Sinbad got loose. After finding out that the person who took his place was a relative of the B**** in HR and having two hamsters in grade school was the only experience of caring for animals, Mick hang around the zoo in the hope of taking his job back. Then, Sinbad got hurt and what was supposed to be just a visit to his old friend turned into an elephant-napping. This story talks of desperation and of loss. Mick's deep love and concern for his friend of 30 years--Sinbad, lead him to desperately save his friend from being abused and to spend his last lucid moments with his best friend, before the traitor Alzheimer finally take hold of his mind for good. These two's trek to the countryside turned out to be unexpected exploits of heroism. Their eventful journey and hilarious experiences had made them an inspiration to many. I liked that the story ended with the unlikely pair as heroes and finally finding a home where they can both live and eventually die free and in peace.   I give this story 5/5 Indian elephants. This is a poignant story told with humor that will make your heart bleed. This is indeed an "Idiot's Guide to Hiding a Humongous Elephant in Plain Sight". Definitely, a worthwhile read that explores friendship and loyalty between humans and taxiderms. This is like the human mind's last stand against the inevitable clutches of Alzheimer's before it finally takes over. Well done Jonathan Dunne! Alzheimer's doesn't change your personality -- it makes you forget your personality. - Jonathan Dunne, Hide the Elephant -  Thank you again, Jonathan Dunne and Library Thing for the copy.

This is another re-telling. This time it's a different take on Beauty and the Beast. I love re-tellings. I think this review is just timely since a new version of Beauty and the Beast starring Emma Watson is coming out in theaters this March 2017.  Blossom and the Beast is an absolutely endearing tale of two people of different backgrounds falling in love with each other more as each day passes. It will make you swoon and fall in love with Blossom and Kaide. Kaide is my kind of guy. The serious and brooding on the outside but really sweet and thoughtful. One whose decisions are well-thought out and well-meaning.  I love Blossom. She's a no muss, no fuss kind of girl which I would like to think I am also. One who is not concerned with pretty dresses and parties. Free-spirited and loves to discover the world on her own. Stubborn as a bull but also kind and smart. I think Blossom and I have a lot in common. She could well be my alter-ego. I love Argeron Frane or more fondly called as DA. He is the embodiment of a great father and clan leader. If I were one of the citizens of Alder, I would like to be a Terra and be part of Da's clan. He is fair and wise. His actions and decisions are also very reasonable. Having read two of R.S. McCoy's works, I should at least be little familiar with her writing style. Those burst of surprises within the story and on the last chapters. Those things should not surprise me anymore but I was caught with my jaw open. It was shameful but I admit it was very exciting as well. To be surprised over and over is the best thing every reader could hope. I was stunned and had to remind myself that I have book two ready to continue my journey. And that is one of the best things about R.S. McCoy, aside from spinning astounding tales, she is also generous. When she sends you an ARC, if there is a book that came before it, she will always include it. I bear witness to this generosity twice.  I give the book a hundred beautiful blossoms. I relished every word in this book. I was transported to the forest in Alderwood and to the bustling city of Pyrona. An amalgamation of both the crude and the advanced. Where the lifestyles of the inhabitants are polar opposites. Where people are of varied temperaments and priorities. But is not a far cry from reality. I think it may even be an accurate mirror of what real events are. I think it's time I include R.S. McCoy to my favorite authors' list. She deserves it. She has continued to astonish me with her writing prowess. Her ability to create characters that are not far from real people. Not larger-than-life personas but relatable ones. Her stories are so engrossing that I sometimes forget they are not real because I want to live in them. Thank you for the great stories. You rock! I'm also going because I want to know what it is. I want to know what parts of me are the strongest. I know that might not happen, but I have to take that chance. - R.S. McCoy, Blossom and the Beast -  Thank you again, R.S. McCoy for the copy.  Other books in the series: Raene and the Three Bears (The Alder Tales #2) Hale and Gemini (The Alder Tales #3) Snow Owl(The Alder Tales #4)

I just got a DM from the author yesterday via Instagram that I won an ebook of this same book. I joined the Author's of Instagram Summer Giveaway Hop. I thanked and told her that I already have a copy of this book from Netgalley. I suggested she gives my prize to someone else so s/he can read her book. I have read her book but have not written a review, yet. The author gave me some updates about the book and was thrilled to be in-the-know of what's going on. I am happy for the author and looking forward to finally see the plans come to fruition. I love stories about people or characters of mixed heritage or background. Reading about other characters like those in the Middle East like the books of Khaled Hosseini (A Thousand Splendid Suns, The Mountains Echoed, etc.) is just very refreshing. It's good to hear the everyday lives of these people who are just like the rest of us. Going through each day with hardwork and wishes that tomorrow will be better. It's a far cry from the bad news we hear about civil wars and bombings. And this story is the same. Though the setting changes from Lebanon to the US and other places Zara has travelled to, it can't be denied that a large chunk of the story is centered around a character of Lebanese descent. I love to travel and I guess that's where my undying curiosity to learn about other cultures springs from. And this story just gave me a peek into the lives of people in Lebanon, especially during the most tumultuous time in their history. As I see it, this story is tragic. At first, I can't decide if I like the main character-Zara. She just has this penchant to ignore her instincts. I mean who does that, right? The ending, she always ends up with her heart more broken each time. It's such a pity. But then, when you understand where she's coming from, your heart will bleed for her. What she has been through was terrible. And no child, should witness what her mother and her father had to go through. It was really horrible. And the only thing she knows of trying to ease her anger and hatred for her father was think of the good times, though  it was never enough to absolve him of all his faults.  And her choices of men in her life. Wow! I admit I can't judge her but I always wonder if she ever learned from her mistakes? The only thing I could say is she should have listened to her instincts. I think it is more reliable than her brain or her heart. I think it is better to be cautious than be sorry. Always sorry, as it appears to be her luck each time. But she also learned her lessons. Only it took years for her to actually examine her choices. I actually rooted for her to still end up with her first love. Sigh. In the end, Zara is a strong woman. Being able to decide that she can do well on her own without any man. She must learn to love herself more so she can be whole. She must come to terms with all her issues and baggage before she tackles more. I can't fault Zara for all the mistakes she made or her misplaced trust. Each person learns at her/his own pace. Some of us do well in some aspects where others are having a hard time. We each have our own strengths and our own challenges. Zara did too. The best we can do is live our lives the best way we can, on our own terms, as long as we don't hurt anyone in the process, including ourselves.  The best part of the story is when Zara decided to travel to de-stress. I think it was the best decision she has ever made. Based on my own experience, travelling puts things into perspective. It allows for self-growth and healing that starts within. I think it's the best cure for all ailments--especially for a broken heart and a shattered spirit. Though, I was a bit dismayed that the story did not end with Zara finally finding the love that she needed, I liked that Zara resolved to delve deeper into the death of her father. I think it would make for a good sequel to this story and it would show another facet or strength of her character which I really want to see. I give this book 4/5 tarboush hats. Zara is just like the rest of us. We know life is very unpredictable, no matter how much we painstakingly make plans and try to prepare for it. You will never know what's gonna hit you. The only thing we can do is rise up every time we fall and to remember "to be meaner than our demons" (quote from The Day You Went Away by Jennifer Millikin). I didn't need all that heartache and trauma in my life to be the person I am today!  If you always do what you've done, you always get what you've always gotten. - Adalina Mae, Nothing is Predictable -  Thank you again, Netgalley and Adalina Mae for the review copy.

I read this last month. Some of the characters of this story also appeared in Twisters and Textbooks. This is the first in the Sunset Plains romance novella. The female main character in this story, Cassidy, is the sister of Tanner in the story I have mentioned above. This is Cassidy's story of how she got her heartbroken by an aspiring actor and was later put back together by his ex-fiance's best friend who is also an actor. This is a short, sweet and endearing story with cupcakes and delicious pastries on the side. The romance of Cassidy and Jase was not easy. It was at first awkward and Jase brought painful reminders of Cassidy's ruined life. But like all stories with two people seeing everyday and forced to deal with each other, they fell in love. Faster than the usual rate of two people attracted to each other. Though, this story is short since it's just a novella, it did not lack for drama. The characters were both trying to move on from a very difficult experience and are on their way to finding themselves when their paths crossed. So, there was no surprise that in such a short time, they have become comfortable with each other. Just like the author, the Cassidy and Tanner got engaged right away. This may have been coined from the author's personal experience. As I said, this story is short and sweet. I actually wish it was a bit longer. This was easy to read and the two main characters were so relatable that they could be one of my friends in some point in their lives. I can't personally relate to the heartbreak Cassidy went through but there were some experiences in the story that I can equate to my personal encounters. The story was smooth and fluid and it was so easy to get carried away by the flow.  I give this book 3.5/5 colorful cupcakes. If you are looking for an easy read that can be finished in about two hours, this is for you. Thank you again, Lindzee Armstrong for the copy. I enjoyed this treat. This is the choice I'd make regardless of whether you were in the equation. You're just the icing on the cupcake. - Lindzee Armstrong, Cupcakes and Cowboys -   Other books by the author: Twisters and Textbooks (Sunset Plains Romance #2)

This is about Sam who time travels to medieval Scotland and meets a girl named Leana. Leana also travels to the current time to Sam's boarding school. These two become caught up in the events in Macbeth, the Shakespearean play.  My first question while reading this book was why was it called Invisible Hand. Unfortunately, I did not find the answer. Up to now, I am still figuring out if I have missed the part where it was explained in the story. I really want to know why this story was titled as such. It has always been important to me to know how the title was fitted to the story. In a way, it somehow gives me a peek into the mind of the author. As mentioned, the two main characters in this tale --Sam and Leana found themselves trapped in the events of the story Macbeth. I actually have not read Macbeth. I guess, it was the reason why I felt like there were events in the story that I could not connect. I felt like the story was fragmented. Maybe, if I read Macbeth and read this story again, I will be able to appreciate and identify the parallel events in this story and in the play. In short, I was a little confused. I was not able to appreciate the whole story at all. I was not able to piece together the flow of the story. Entirely my fault but I also wished that the story would have been easier to follow even if I have not read Macbeth. What I heartily appreciated about the story though was the part where they had to find an object which was also what the witch in Macbeth was looking for. The same witch is also happens to appear in the boarding school and had installed herself as one of the few people who has authority and access to the whole school and its surroundings. Sam and Leana will have to race against her to get that object to prevent her from causing havoc both in medieval Scotland and in the present time. It was so cool for these two finding clues from the historical events and persons that lead them to the church and the cemetery. I really enjoyed this part. One other thing I was wondering about was why Sam could travel back in time, to a period when he was not even born. The story hinted of a special ability of Sam that was passed on from his mother. I am interested to explore more on this unique characteristic of Sam. I also wonder about Leana. Is she like Sam? How can she also travel between periods? I give this book 3/5 old books. Truthfully, I find the plot amazing. I don't think integrating any Shakespearean play into a story has been done before. It's a fresh idea. This story reminds of Sam Sotto's Love and Gravity. It also has time travel but instead of a historical genius, in here it features a classic play by no other than Mr. William Shakespeare. If time permits, I would like to reread this story. I want to fully grasp it and connect with it. I don't think I was able to appreciate what it was telling me the first time.  I am looking forward to reading the next books. As I understand, it would still be set in the boarding school but it would feature another of Shakespeare's play. Maybe, next time I will get lucky and it would include a play that I have read before like Taming of the Shrew. And I will get to the enjoy the story to my heart's content. One foot in front of the other and follow your nose. - James Hartley, The Invisible Hand -  Thank you again, Netgalley for the copy.

Skinny Cappuccino A Feel Good Romance by: Alicia M. Kaye Publication date: October 27th 2015 Genres: Clean Romance, New Adult, Inspiriational For twenty-five year old Michelle, starting a café with a gorgeous man was supposed to be fun, exciting and thrilling…until he disappears. When Clive decides to take time off, for an undetermined amount of time, this leaves Michelle realising how little she knows about running a coffee shop. Her degree in English Literature can only help so far. If she didn’t have enough on her plate trying to make ends meet, her landlord, handsome Arthur Banks Junior is ruthless and unreasonable. He’s obviously set to bankrupt her but Michelle's not afraid of a fight. Michelle discovers Arthur has problems of his own. If they could just stop being so antagonistic toward each other and work together, maybe they can help each other out.  I had this book on my TBR for quite a while. I think I had this last quarter of last year. I have been meaning to read this but failed in the attempt as I had signed up for quite a lot of book tours in the first three months of this year. Finally, I've read it but then, the review took about a month to get posted also. Phew, here goes. Does any of you love a skinny cappuccino? Is this your favorite drink at you favorite coffee shop? I am not really a coffee-person. If I were to drink coffee and that is due to a necessity or if tea and cocoa have become extinct, then it would be with a lot of milk. There is a local brand which is called "blanca" which I think just fits my taste buds. So, skinny cappuccino, for all other tea-drinkers like me who doesn't care much about anything to do with coffee, is coffee with non-fat milk. I hope you got where the skinny came from. I give this 3/5 cups of coffee. This was a fun and easy enough read. As easy as drinking a hot cup of coffee or tea. No heavy drama. Just clean fun with some bits of information about coffee. The main character is a woman with strong character. She setup her own coffee shop and when her partner disappeared and left her with a ton of problems, she solved them on her own and even traveled literally and figuratively, outside of her comfort zone. Add in a best friend who is as spirited as she is which gave more color to the story. This is absolutely a feel good romance. I also call this an inspirational romance. The first few encounters between Mickey and Artie were really awkward and amusing. Their back and forth of trying to antagonize each other was very fun to read. They started like cats and dogs who can't seem to agree but in the end, they were able to help each other get out of their individual financial dilemma. Yes, this ended well and I couldn't be more happy. One thing more, I love how the book started. It was just hilarious and I couldn't think of a better way. This story started with alarm bells literally ringing. As in--Don't panic. It's just an alarm. That two-liner just had me and I know right there I would enjoy this book. If I knew security guys were this good-looking and flirty, I'd trip the alarm all the time. - Alicia M. Kaye, Skinny Cappuccino - Thank you again, Alicia M. Kaye and AXP Read and Review for the copy.

Do you have a bucket list? I do. I even have a bookworm bucket list. Yes, I have two separate bucket lists. One mostly involved trying new adventures and experiences. The other one has more to do with bookish things and places. How about a life list? Do you have one? What's the difference between a bucket list and a life list? A bucket list is more like things to do before you die. You have your whole life or lifetime to check off the list. While a life list refers to the now. A list of more urgent or immediate things to do. It's like a short-term plan while a bucket list takes longer. A list of things that will involve going out of your comfort zones. Why am I talking about these lists? The story I am reviewing today talks about a life list. Charlotte Lambert was left with a broken heart and a list of things--new and daring experiences to try after her twin sister died. This list forces Charlotte to go back to the land of the living. One item on the list has something to do with a rock star. Will Charlotte honor the last wish of her sister or continue to refuse to join the dance of life? Honestly, I think I like this list that Vivienne left Charlotte. It is indeed a sure way to move past whatever hard time a person is going through but it also comes with its own consequences depending on the kind of daring the activity requires. This list requires jumping first and ask questions later. I say I like the list but I don't think I am that bold to finish it. It seems exciting but I'd prefer the safer adrenaline-inducing experiences like bungee-jumping or climbing mountains. I think I would skip the ones that would likely hurt people or myself. I don't think I can actually steal but I think I can lie. But I'd make sure the lie would have no life-changing results or permanent damage. I also think that if I were as broken as Charlotte was, then I probably would be desperate enough to try what she did if only to feel alive again. If by ticking off the list, I'd be able to feel things that I thought I would never experience again. If I'd been feeling like a void like Charlotte, then I may actually just finish off the list if it would be the only thing that would make my heart beat again. If like in this story, something you do out of desperation will eventually bring out a better version of yourself or allow a special person to come into your life and help patch your broken spirit again, then why not? I would gladly wallow in that desperation if only for the hope that something extraordinary will come out of it. But life doesn't guarantee any of that. In this story, it was kind of fate for Charlotte and Travis to meet. They each needed to get over a tragedy and they found each other. It was like meeting a person who totally understands the pain your going through because he too is trying to deal with that same pain. He too is currently licking his wounds. I give this 4/5 hummingbirds. The story explores the possibilities of living life out of your comfort zones. What are its benefits and consequences. Are you willing to screw all other people's expectations and just live according to your terms and the best way you know how to? Or are you going to live like there's no tomorrow sans the aftermath? The story also talks about family background and dynamics. How it plays into choices and decisions a person makes. In this story, Vivienne and Charlotte are twins but they are opposites. Vivienne was so daring and Charlotte was so intent on not crossing boundaries and lines. Charlotte was content to stay in the safe zone until she realized that nothing could protect her from the pain and void that Vivienne's parting will cause. She has to, in-a-bizarre-kind-of-way, live dangerously like Vivienne if only to feel her pulse and blood rushing again. Personally, I have learned to live by the present. It helps when you have friends who do. I have learned that we need to celebrate every triumphs and successes, no matter how small. To enjoy each victory, no matter how brief because these little things and little joys actually would mean a lot in the bigger scheme of things and in the long run. I guess, these moments somehow made me hold on. I admit, I have come to times when I think I might have been a little too close to the edge. It also means that you acknowledge defeats and mistakes and move on from them. Do not linger and over examine. That's the idea but it doesn't exactly work that way all the time. Worrying and stewing over an error or an issue can never be avoided but "living in the moment" means not torturing yourself over it. Move on and learn from that mistake. Your past does not make your whole being. It does not sum up your whole existence. Do not wallow in it. Wish it were that simple in practice. This was how my thoughts were working after reading this story. A simple list launched this story into deeper territories and emotions. It examined issues. I guess, my thoughts were geared into this direction probably because I too was going through some tough time and I think this story showed me a radical perspective. Definitely, this story shook me. Thank you, Carol of Star Angels Reviews. I got this ARC last January but I think I might have overlooked the email and only got to read this last April. Life is tragic, but then the wonderful sneaks up on you and you can go on. - Simone Harlow, You Shook Me All Night -

The Matchmaking Game Timeless Romance Single #4 by: Donna Hatch Publication date: April 18th 2017 Publisher: Mirror Press Genres: Romance, Historical Romance, Regency From the publisher of the USA TODAY bestselling & #1 Amazon bestselling Timeless Romance Anthology series in Clean & Wholesome Romance, comes the Timeless Romance Singles line. THE MATCHMAKING GAME: A brand new historical romance novella from bestselling author Donna Hatch. Rowena’s childhood friend, Evan, has returned home from war a handsome, but mysterious stranger. In an effort to bring happiness to her father, not to mention uncover the Evan she remembers from their youth, Rowena seeks to unite their parents. Who better to match a lonely widow and widower together than their adoring children? Her matchmaking game could help their parents find happiness and draw out her childhood friend buried beneath Evan’s new reserve … or it could break more than one heart. More Timeless Romance Singles: FROM CAIRO, WITH LOVE by Nancy Campbell Allen SOPHIA'S LEAP-YEAR COURTSHIP by Kristin Holt STARTING OVER IN STEEPLE RIDGE by Liz Isaacson This is an absolutely swoon-worthy story. I just love the characters. Stories like these are why I have have slowly become a fan of regency novels. I have read quite a few which are very adorable that had changed my mind about them. They maybe stories set in an era that has bygone but the on-going theme of love, family and honor never gets old. And yes, not all of them are boring and antiquated as it may seem. Some are really engaging. They are like classic songs that never grow old, oldies but goodies. I have read a few Timeless Romance novels and I have been surprisingly enamored by the amazing and amusing stories. This story is the same. The stolen glances between Rowena and Evan were just amusing. They made me giggle like I was part of their secret. A secret not one of them yet knows but only those that witness their silent communication. Oh, did I mention I love stories of best friends that eventually fall in love with each other? Those stories just make everything right in the world. I felt Rowena's feelings. The hurt, disappointment and the unrequited love. It felt like I was Rowena. It was like I too lived through her experiences and the frustrations, that if I can't marry him, then why marry at all. I lost myself in the pages and I was just Rowena as the story goes on. And what a relief it was that the antagonist of this story was not at all that bad. I love that Cynthia was smart enough to not marry someone who didn't love her back. I praised her for that very mature decision she made. I wish all antagonists in all love stories are like her. And Evan, he is the ultimate example of a gentleman. And I agree with Rowena, the qualities that she admired in Evan like respect, honor and dedication to family were the same things that would keep him from her. Ugh! My heart just stopped beating for a few seconds after that line. I wanted so much to hug Rowena to comfort her and tell her that she is not alone. Some women have been in her situation too. I give the book 4.5/5 red apples. I love the ending. Again, all is right with the world. All's well that ends well. I too wish I will have the same thing like Rowena had. What a cute and amusing story! Rowena thought she was matchmaking her dad with Evan's mom, it turned out the two were also thinking the same for her and Evan. Just lovely! One more thing, I melted when Evan proposed to Rowena. Everything he said was just perfect. I imagined I was Rowena and all the words he said were meant for me. *Now I am a pile of love struck and shrieking goo.*   Here is Evan's proposal. I am sure, all you ladies will go weak in the knees or faint. Rowena Elizabeth Emerson. (Feel free to substitute your name here). I love you more than a body has a right to, but I fully expect to love you even more tomorrow, and the day after that. I don't have quite as big of an estate as I used to, and I'm still a bit battered. I've forgotten most of the waltz steps. But will you have me? (Yes!) Will you marry me? (Absolutely!)  - Donna Hatch, The Matchmaking Game - Thank you again, Kathy of ebooksforreview.com for the copy. I absolutely love all the regency novels you have featured for review on your site.

I have always been fascinated by the theories and stories about Jesus Christ and other things pertaining to religion. The two other books in the picture are books relating to the life of Jesus, Freemasonry and the temples of Solomon. These two books are not so fiction. The writers are both religious scholars who have explored various sources and texts. It's the readers prerogative how they would take the contents of these two books. These two were like historical fiction books for me. It had in no way affected or changed my belief. The Murdered Messiah is much like the two books - The Hiram Key and The Book of Hiram. This book chronicles the life of Jesus Christ. The events that lead to his birth, to his crucifixion and resurrection.  This was probably the longest book I have ever read. In some parts, the pace was slow. I had to resort to reading two other short stories in between so I would not lose interest in this book. But overall, this was a very interesting read. I think, this theory of Jesus Christ's birth and conception is not very far fetch. I think this could be the most plausible and the nearest explanation to the mystery of Christ. I am a Catholic and reading this book had in no way affected my faith or belief at all, just like the two other books mentioned above. I am just glad or relieved or maybe thankful that someone was brave enough to write his theory relating to the events and assumptions of the life of Christ.  I love Joseph's character. He was a man of his word. He still married Miriam (Mary), in spite of what other people think and say, solely because he loved her. It was probably the most unselfish thing to do. To love and accept someone, including all her flaws and baggage. I'd prefer this version of Joseph over the one we popularly knew who did not want to marry Mary and wanted to break the engagement.  The most interesting part of this book was how Judas' character was portrayed. I liked how he was not totally made out to be the bad link in the chain of Jesus' ministry. He was flawed but he was indeed a follower of Joshua (Jesus). His actions and decisions were understandable, knowing where he was coming from.  The most despicable character, contrary to our belief that it was Judas, was Pontius Pilate. I would like to believe that he was definitely the bad guy, the ultimate face of the devil or the devil incarnate. I totally despised him. I enjoyed his tormented reactions after he found out that Joshua rose from the dead. I think if I were to make someone's life a living hell, it would be Pilate. I would love to see him lose sleep and pull his hair out until he drives himself crazy with anger. I would enjoy tormenting him.  I commend Lens Lamensdorf for coming up with this interesting book. Like the author, I too, in some way thought about these theories here. I guess, the only thing that can't be humanly or scientifically explained was how Jesus healed the sick and resurrected the dead. And like the author, I too believed that if ever a Messiah was to be called, it just made more sense that he comes from the common people, the humblest of beginnings. Who's most likely to lead the oppressed than one who has suffered the most? I give this book 4/5 crosses. Just like all martyrs, Jesus (or Joshua in this book) died to free his country and people from foreign rule. The only difference that separated him other revolutionaries was that his way was through peace. He didn't believe in rising in arms and killing. As the author said, only he might just be the greatest martyr in Jewish history or maybe the greatest in the world has ever known. I think, I would readily accept this version of Jesus Christ without question. His unfortunate beginnings and tragic life only added strength and shape to his character.  We need a man who is brave enough to be a soldier, learned enough to be a priest, strong enough to suffer any loss and powerful enough to lead the people--We need the Messiah. - Len Lamensdorf, The Murdered Messiah -

Serenity Shelby Alexander #1 by: Craig A. Hart Publication date: October 14th 2016 Genres: Mystery, Thriller, Suspense, Crime Do You Love Thrillers? The New Shelby Alexander Thriller Series Is Here! Don't Forget To Breathe... A woman dies in his arms...a drug dealer offers him $10,000...a gunman is determined to kill him. And then everything goes to hell.   Shelby Alexander is an aging ex-boxer and retired fixer, whose activities often flirted with the wrong side of the law. Looking for a little peace and a slower pace of life, he moved to Serenity, the small Michigan town where he grew up. But trouble follows men like Shelby, and he finds himself embroiled in an underworld of drugs and violence that may prove to be his undoing. The first book in the new Shelby Alexander Thriller Series, Serenity is an action-packed read with a lovingly rendered cast, witty dialogue, and a main character who doesn't know when to quit. I got this  from the  author. He  was  featured in  one of the  newsletters that  I signed  up for. The newsletter said to just email Mr. Hart if I was interested to review his book. And I did and here I am reviewing it. This review just took a while  to come out  because I  only got the  chance to read the book last month. This is  the first of a series. And of course, my first to read a book by this author. Shelby Alexander  is  obviously  the  main  character in  this story. He is a  retired boxer. This is how, by some unfortunate event, a  dead   body  was  found on  his  yard  to  be  precise, got   him  started  on  being a  private  detective.  Serenity  is the name  of the town  which to me is a contradiction. It is in no way serene. First a dead body, then a  turf  war between  two  drug-dealing cartels. What's serene in that? I think  I stumbled on a gem. Craig A. Hart is a good find. I was fortunate that I listened to my instincts to sign up to review this book because this was such a suspenseful read. I felt sorry for Shelby being a greenhorn in private investigation and be  constantly  shot  at. He only just started and it seemed like people  are out  to  terminate  him.  Not a  good omen for a starting PI, right?  Not to mention, he did not on his own volition  decide to be a PI.  He was approached to dig and ask around to find the killer of the dead boy and how it ended up on his property. What's more, he  is now  in close  contact  with  very   shady  characters. The  very same  people who  trusted  him  to   find  the   people   responsible  for  the  death of their sister. Yes, the  dead body in his yard was the sister of the major drug-dealing family  in  Serenity. With  the  danger  he  is  in  becoming  more real  and  deadlier, Shelby  used  the  resources available to him, like his girl friend who works at a bar and a friend who is not from Serenity.  In the end, it turned out a lot of interests are playing this deadly game. Selfish, very deadly and high stakes are involved and Shelby has to outwit the unknown and faceless enemy to stay alive and save those that are caught in the crossfire. I give this 4/5 one-cup coffee makers. Though, this was kind of melancholy and dark, I enjoyed reading this book. Mr. Hart is shaping up to be one really good mystery writer. And my favorite author's list has a  lot of  space  for more   mystery  writers  since it's  my favorite  genre. I am  looking  forward to read Serenity Avenged. Another book of  the same   author and also part  of this series. What  other deadly situations will Mr. Alexander get entangled in?      Thank you Mr. Hart for this  worthwhile read.  Looking  forward  to reading  more of  your books, whether in this same genre or not. There was a hunger inside humanity, a craving for conflict. It was how it pulled itself out of the ooze and rose to rule the planet. It was biology. - Craig A. Hart, Serenity -

This is the story of Mila, an American who got to spend her summer in Mexico to improve her Spanish as credit for school.  This is a coming of age story of a girl out to prove to her mother that she can be responsible, trusted and independent. In Mexico, she gets to know herself better and found strength to stand up to her mother. Only after being almost drowned in a flood, the object of rivalry between two friends, being outcast by Mexican girls of her age and sexually harassed. All these experiences force her to cling on to her faith and discover things about herself. The theme of this story is universal. It speaks of every teenager in the world who wants to be given the chance to live life according to her terms, not her parents'. A person who painstakingly tries so hard to be appreciated by her parents and given credit for being a good kid and student. To be commended for her achievements and be allowed to pursue her passion and creative side. To decide for herself. To let her be accountable for her decisions, whether they are right or wrong. To allow her to grow and prosper. I am not a parent yet but when I will be one, I will make sure or try my best to allow my kids to be their own persons. To let them know themselves and not restrict them with too many prohibitions. Being too strict always tend to make the kids rebel and do the opposite of what the parents want instead. To my experience, when I am treated as an adult, the more I act like a responsible one. Kids should be taught the value of integrity instead of being told they are lacking. It should be positive reinforcement instead of shooting kids down. I guess, some parents forget that they have this great power to break their children. Some do not realize this until they have crippled the spirit and broken their children's hearts. I am speaking for myself, I think in my age, I know where my parents have done their best and where they should have done more for me.  Most often, it would take an unforgettable experience for a person to come to a realization. Like Mila's mother, it took a trip to Mexico for her to realize that Mila is a good kid and trustworthy. That she is ready to go out in to the world and go after her future.  I give this 3/5 tacos. I like how Mila was empowered to be the person she wants to be. To pursue her art and use it for a good purpose. To realize her mistakes and atone for them. To choose her friends wisely and not worry about fitting in or pleasing anyone. To be just herself.  If you seek perfection, you will not allow yourself to experiment. You need to let go. Revel in the mess. It's where true beauty lies. - Meg D. Gonzales, Sketchy Tacos -  Thank you, Kathy of ebooksforreview.com for the copy.