The Easy Baked Donut Cookbook: 60 Sweet and Savory Recipes for Your Oven and Mini Donut Maker by Sara Mellas – A Book Review

  

Okay, I wouldn't usually pick up a sweets oriented cookbook, but donuts are my kryptonite. The word donut paired with easy and baked in this title immediately caught my attention. Sara Mellas sets you up for success in her first chapter, providing numerous tips for making sure your donuts turn out just right. The cookbook includes recipes for your classic favorites such as old-fashioned cake, apple cider, classic raised, and Boston cream. It also includes some fascinating sounding newer versions such as cannoli, Matcha green tea, and panettone. While the chapter headings Basic and Sugared, Glazed, Iced and Frosted, and Filled are to be expected, finding recipes labeled gluten-free and vegan may not be. The final chapter titled Savory takes donuts to a whole new level including recipes such as jalapeno-cheddar cornbread donuts and olive, fig, and rosemary donuts. There's even a doggy donut recipe to make sure no family member is left out. I am grateful to have received a copy of this cookbook from RockRidge Press in exchange for my honest opinion. I was under no obligation to provide a positve review, and received no monetary compensation.

The Ultimate Slow Cooker Cookbook: No-Fuss Recipes for Classic Dishes and New Favorites Edited by Linda Larsen – A Book Review

   

I have been using a slow cooker for over forty years, and still learned some tips for improving food quality while reading the first chapter of this cookbook. I love the convenience of using a slow-cooker, but tend to cook the same meals in it: beef roast and vegetables, stew, bbq, sweet potatoes, etc...I am so excited to see such a large number of recipes in this Ultimate Slow-Cooker Cookbook, and such a wide variety! I am especially anxious to try the Appetizers and Snacks chapter with our dinner club. The Breakfast and Brunch chapter has some new ideas to enjoy, many of which appear to be fairly low in carbohydrates. I am grateful that the recipes throughout the book are labeled as to whether the are low-calorie, vegetarian, gluten-free, or vegan. Even with lots of low-calorie options, there are a plethora of comfort food recipes to be found between the covers of this cookbook. Right now, with having so many Zoom meetings in the evenings, using the slow-cooker is almost as much of a necessity as when I was working, and with these amazing recipes it will be a lot more interesting. I am grateful to have received a copy of The Ultimate Slow Cooker Cookbook, and it is indeed the ultimate, from RockRidge Press in exchange for my honest opinion. I was under no obligation to provide a positive review, and received no monetary compensation.

Thunder Dog: The True Story of A Blind Man,His Guide Dog & the Triumph of Trust by Michael Hingson with Susy Flory – A Book Review

     

A friend gifted me with a copy of Thunder Dog, and I am so appreciative. With a family member who is visually impaired, legally blind, I found this book to be a great encouragement regarding the quality of life blind people currently enjoy, although Michael Hingson does make a case for continued work on social integration into society at large. This book focuses on what blind people are capable of doing, achieving and enjoying rather than on their limitations. This outlook is supported by the inclusion of Kenneth Jernigan's Blindness: A Left-Handed Dissertation in which he draws parallels between blindness and left-handedness in their impact on daily living in society.

Author, Michael Hingson, became blind after over exposure to oxygen following a premature birth. Unlike many in 1950, Michael's parents chose to raise him at home rather than placing him in a residential center. Michael was always encouraged to do as much as he could, and to say that he was fearless is an understatement. He has continued throughout his life to test his limits, to assist the blind community with accommodations and encouragement. Michael's work and accomplishments may have been enough to bring him national attention, but he was rocketed there when he and his guide dog, Roselle, were among the survivors of the attacks on the World Trade Center, something that provided him with a platform for advocating for the blind community.

Even if the reader does not have a personal connection to someone with visual impairment or blindness, this memoir is one that will amaze and encourage everyone, and I would highly recommend it. I extend my gratitude to MaryAnne R. for gifting me with this thoroughly enjoyable read.

The Green Dress by Liz Tolsma - A Book Review

  

Barbour Publishing's True Colors series is a collection of novels, written by a variety of authors based on true historical stories of American Crime. Liz Tolsma's The Green Dress is the latest installment. It is a fiction piece based on the crimes committed against Sarah Jane Robinson's family, and which occurred in the years 1881-1886. In this story Harriet Peters becomes concerned about the illnesses and deaths of many of the family members of the family that took her in when she fled to Boston to avoid an arranged marriage. She enlists the aid of Dr. Michael Wheaton who becomes increasingly concerned for Harriet's safety. The Green Dress is a most wonderful addition to this intriguing series. It held me spellbound, and I believe most historical fiction and mystery fans will love it. I am grateful to have received a copy of The Green Dress from Barbour Publishing in exchange for my honest opinion. I was under no obligation to write a positive review, ad received no monetary compensation.

Masquerade at Middlecrest Abbey by Abigail Wilson – A Book Review

  

Set in 1815 southeastern England, Masquerade at Middlecrest Abbey is both a murder mystery and gothic romance with scenes that quickly move from sweet to eerie, from light to dark. Abigail Wilson sweeps her readers along, catching them up in the emotions of the story while carefully laying out clues for them to gather as they move along. I love that she carefully inserts these clues making the mention of them appear no more or less important than any other information presented, allowing her readers the space for their own deductions. She is truly a gifted mystery writer. I highly recommend this book as well as this author's previous works. You won't be disappointed. I am grateful to have received a complimentary copy of this book from its publisher, Thomas Nelson. All opinions listed here are completely my own.

The Toughest Sudoku Puzzle Book by Cristina Smith and Rick Smith - A Book Review

   

This is the first time I have been offered the opportunity to review a puzzle book, and as a Sudoku fan I couldn't resist. The book includes fourteen techniques to build your Sudoku skills, and with puzzles rated Tough, Tougher, Tear-Your-Hair-Out, and an Extra Credit section, those techniques are not only helpful, but for many necessary. I was pleasantly surprised to see that the techniques I already use weren't limited to basic, but also fell under the intermediate level. I am learning a lot from the advanced techniques. So if you are a Sudoku fan, even if you have been a fan for awhile, I believe you will find enough challenge to enjoy this book, and maybe even pick up some new techniques. Happy solving!

I am grateful to have received a copy of The Toughest Sudoku Puzzle Book from RockRidge Press in exchange for my honest opinion. I was under no obligation to provide a positive review and received no monetary compensation.

Everyday Healthy Cookbook: Recipes and a Meal Plan to Make Healthy Eating Easy by Kathy Hodson - A Book Review

   

If you are fairly new to planning for and preparing healthy meals, this is the cookbook for you. If you have much experience in this area, you may not find anything novel here. I was a bit surprised to find early on in the book a page dedicated to rice, an ingredient we do not indulge in often as we strive to maintain a healthy diet, preferring to look for ancient grains. One feature that I especially appreciated was the chapter on No-Cook Meals, more so since summer is rapidly approaching. The chapter on 30-Minute Meals contributes to being able to serve healthy meals even with a busy schedule as do the One-Pot and One-Skillet meals. Icons appear at the top of each recipe to indicate if it is gluten-free, vegetarian or low calorie. I wish there were an icon for diabetic friendly. The recipes generally look quite appetizing and include many that are likely to appeal to the average American palate.

I am grateful to have received a copy of the Everyday Healthy Cookbook from RockRidge Press in exchange for my honest opinion. I was under no obligation to write a positive review, and received no monetary compensation.

Carolina Breeze by Denise Hunter - A Book Review

  

Carolina Breeze is a great vacation or staycation read; this is 2020 after all, and vacation plans are a bit iffy so staycations may be the thing. While it will work as a stand-alone read, the background knowledge from the first book in Hunter's Bluebell Inn Novels might increase the reader's pleasure. The Bluebell Inn is run by three adult siblings who seek to fulfill their late parents' legacy while striving to live their own lives. The Inn hosts interesting and sometimes famous guests who come to mean more to this family than just a brief acquaintance. The theme of this second installment relates to allowing oneself to be vulnerable with God and with those with whom we want to have more meaningful relationships, and to allowing others to help carry our burdens.

I am grateful to have received a complimentary copy of this book from Thomas Nelson via NetGalley. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

On a Coastal Breeze by Suzanne Woods Fisher – A Book Review

   

Fear. Worry. Anxiety. Do these plague you or someone you love? Through the lives of the Grayson sisters, author Suzanne Woods Fisher provides great insight and wisdom as to their root and the One who holds the answers to the havoc they wreak on our peace and contentment.

On a Coastal Breeze will be best understood and enjoyed by first reading On a Summer Tide, the first book in Fisher's Three Sisters Island series. The island is filled with quirky characters and even has some quirks of its own. There is enough fun and humor in this series to make the tough themes easier to digest. It is lighthearted enough to to be a great beach or vacation read, but meaty enough to make one feel like the times spent reading it was time well spent.

I am grateful to have received a copy of On a Coastal Breeze from Revell via NetGalley in exchange for my honest opinion. I was under no obligation to provide a positive review, and received no monetary compensation.

Dairy-Free Cookbook for Beginners: 101 Simple, Satisfying Recipes by Chrissy Carroll, MPH, RD - A Book Review

   

This cookbook is loaded with valuable information for those requiring or preferring a dairy-free diet. Who knew hot dogs or sausages might contain dairy! Knowing the terms to look for to discover hidden forms of dairy in ingredient lists could be extremely important to those with dairy allergies or sensitivities, as are essential substitutions. Even though this is a cookbook, the author gives tips for eating out while maintaining a dairy-free diet. I was especially excited to see the suggested special occasion menus. Recipes in the book include such things as making your own nut milks, yummy breakfast pastries as well as more hearty breakfast fare, soups, sauces, dips, vegetarian and vegan entrees, and a variety of delicious desserts. I am sure our granddaughter who requires a dairy-free diet will find many dishes she and her family can enjoy together. It is wonderful when those who do and those who don't need a special diet can all enjoy the same meal together. Thanks to Chrissy Carroll for providing recipes that just about anyone would enjoy.

I am grateful to have received a copy of this cookbook from RockRidge Press in exchange for my honest opinion. I was under no obligation to provide a positive review and received no monetary compensation.

Of Literature and Lattes by Katherine Reay - A Book Review

  

Although this book includes The Printed Letter Bookshop in the little town of Winsome, Illinois and its own cast of characters, the book by the same name is not a necessary read in order to understand and enjoy Of Literature and Lattes.This book does conclude in a manner that leaves the reader hoping for a follow up book. One especially wants to know how things work out for Jeremy and his seven-year-old daughter, Becca, the two most lovable characters in this story. Almost every reader is likely to find at least one character with whom he or she can closely identify. The story's theme of familial relationships demonstrates the importance of love and grace in navigating those waters. I recommend this book to fans of contemporary Christian fiction and contemporary fiction in general. I am grateful to have received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

Unveiling the Past by Kim Vogel Sawyer - A Book Review

  

Kim Vogel Sawyer explores the impact of fatherlessness, both when the father is absent and when he is only present by location but not in spirit. She also explores the difference it makes for those who know God as Father. The theme of forgiveness is essential to the story of Unveiling the Past, without it one cannot easily move forward after the past has been unveiled. Sawyer treats these themes with the grace and sensitivity they deserve and require. Both her talent and her heart shine in this, her latest, novel.

Unveiling the Past is made up of three, well managed, story lines. In one Meghan DeFord Eagle is separated from Sean, her partner in the Arkansas Cold Case Investigations Department and her husband, in order to pursue a case of a missing father while also contemplating contacting her own father whom she has never met. In the second Sean is partnered with Tom Farber, a very difficult person to get along with who is fighting his own demons, to continue the case he and Meghan had begun in the search for the killer of eight-year-old twin boys. Finally Meghan's mother must come to terms with her own feelings about the man who abandoned her before Meghan was born now that his coming back into their lives is a very real possibility.

I am very grateful to have received a copy of this book from Multnomah in exchange for my honest opinion. I was under no obligation to provide a positive review, and received no monetary compensation. #PRHpartner

A Mosaic of Wings by Kimberly Duffy - A Book Review

  

Being unfamiliar with this author, I opened A Mosaic of Wings anticipating a quirky historical romance, what I got was so much more. Nora Shipley, while blanketed in grief of her father's passing, is compelled to follow in his footsteps, making her way in their shared field of entomology; not an easy task for a woman in 1885. To make things more complicated, Nora has also pledged to wrestle control of her father's scientific journal publication from her stepfather, returning it to its position of respect in the scientific community. Owen Epps is Nora's biggest competitor in her plans for making her dreams come true, but Owen had dreams of his own that were beyond Nora's wildest imagination, dreams that would lead to her finding her true way, the one God had gifted her for. A very special little girl named Sita would also greatly impact Nora's path as well as her understanding of placing love as life's top priority.

A Mosaic of Wings is an emotional story, filled with intense sensory images. I could not put this book down for long, but there were times that I had to let it rest in my lap while the story settled in my mind. I highly recommend this book, and am grateful to have received a copy from Bethany House via NetGalley in exchange for my honest opinion. I was under no obligation to provide a positive review, and received no monetary compensation.

The Essential Middle Eastern Cookbook: Classic Recipes Made Easy by Michelle Anderson - A Book Review

   

Of all the cookbooks I have reviewed, I was most excited about this one. I told my husband right away that this is the cookbook our next meal for our dinner group would come from. I am really looking forward to testing out these recipes in preparation for that meal. The author has brought decades of personal and professional experience in cooking Middle Eastern foods to the creation of this cookbook. While respecting the ingredients and preparations of the original dishes, she has striven to create recipes that do not take days to make and to use ingredients that are available in North America. There is way more information than I could take in during the first read of Chapter One: the culinary regions of the Middle East, the main ingredients preferred by these regions, particulars about the spices and which are better toasted and how to do that in order to get the best flavors, along with other helpful information. I was thrilled with the number of vegetarian recipes, and excited about the melding of flavors and textures. The only thing I would change about this cookbook would be to include more pictures. I would love to see what the finished products are supposed to look like as a way of checking on my own efforts. Most importantly my family, friends, and myself will be able to judge by the tastes that I create. The clear directions given for each recipe along with special tips make me feel very confident that I will be successful in creating many restaurant quality meals with this cookbook.

I am very grateful to have received a copy of The Essential Middle Eastern Cookbook from RockRidge Press in exchange for my honest opinion. I was under no obligation to provide a positive review, and received no monetary compensation.

The Essential Panini Press Cookbook: 100 Creative & Classic Recipes by Sean Curry – A Book Review

 

The author right up front gives the reader important information on stacking your panini, beginning with the bread. I was surprised then to find that there are quite a few recipes included that while made on a panini press that are not paninis and do not involve bread, such as watermelon steaks, swordfish skewers, bunless bacon burger, and a grilled fruit platter. The final chapter includes recipes for salads, spreads, slaws, and sauces to complement the panini grilled foods. While this book would have to be used carefully by those watching their carbs or needing a gluten free diet, I assume anyone picking up a panini press cookbook would be aware of that. No nutritional or health information are included with the recipes in this book. There are a variety of recipes from sweet to savory. The key to all are the blends of both flavors and textures. The subtitle is accurate in that the recipes range from classic to trendy and creative pairings of ingredients. There are healthy recipes to be found here as well as more indulgent ones. Enjoy!

I am grateful to have received a copy of this book from RockRidge Press in exchanged for my honest opinion. I was under no obligation to provide a positive review, and received no monetary compensation.

Standoff by Patricia Bradley - A Book Review

   

I believe that I have read every book Patricia Bradley has written, and am always excited to read her newest releases. Standoff is the first book in her latest series revolving around Natchez Trace Park Rangers. It is classic Bradley with non-stop action, an abundance of suspects and red herrings, great dialogue, and endearing characters. This book's protagonist is torn in many directions: between past love and the possibility of new love, between the joy of beginning her dream job and the grief over her father's murder, and between trusting life-long friends and knowing that there is at least one among them who is a betrayer and possibly a murderer. I encourage fans of romantic suspense to join her as she searches for the truth.

I am grateful to have received a copy of Standoff from Revell via NetGalley in exchange for my honest opinion. I was under no obligation to provide a positive review, and received no monetary compensation.

Unyielding Hope by Janette Oke and Laurel Oke Logan – A Book Review

   

Fans of these two authors will be most pleased with their latest offering. Fans of Hallmark's When Hope Calls series will also enjoy this first book in the book series by the same name, although they will notice some differences. Hearts will rejoice with the sisters' reunion, and grieve for their losses. They will rise with emotion as they come to love the children under the sisters' care, and will grow concerned over their hurts. This book is definitely not a stand-alone read as it ends with a cliff hanger. I only hope it won't be a long wait until the release of the series' second book. I am grateful to have received a copy of Unyielding Hope from Bethany House via NetGalley in exchange for my honest opinion. I was under no obligation to provide a positive review and received no monetary compensation.

Storing Up Trouble by Jen Turano - A Book Review

  

Finally a book featuring Miss Beatrix Waterbury, and it was worth the wait! Beatrix was an intriguing secondary character in the first two books of Turano's American Heiresses series, aiding and abetting her friends' shenanigans. In Storing Up Trouble she finds herself in her own series of hilarious mishaps. If you are looking for a book that is strictly realistic, you may want to pass on this one, but if you are looking for a rollicking tale full of fun and invoking a bevy of chuckles, then this is the book for you. I am very grateful to have received a copy from Bethany House via NetGalley in exchange for my honest opinion. I was under no obligation to provide a positive review, and received no monetary compensation.

The Water Keeper by Charles Martin - A Book Review

  

The Water Keeper is something special, powerful. While it embraces Christianity and a depth of love not many know, it is also raw and painful as the author tackles the impact of human trafficking. This book will appeal to male and female readers as the main character is a dichotomy of strength and vulnerability; his past pushing him to leave the ninety-nine to seek the one, a journey requiring monumental sacrifice. Along the way he collects a band, a fellowship of sorts, of those who need him, but who also have much to offer.

I cannot encourage you enough to step into the world of The Water Keeper. I am very grateful to have received a complimentary copy of this book from Thomas Nelson through NetGalley. All opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

21-Day Arthritis Diet Plan: Nutrition Guide and Recipes to Fight Osteoarthritis Pain and Inflammation by Ana Reisdorf, MS, RD - A Book Review

  

The author of this book is not claiming this plan will cure osteoarthritis pain, only to reduce it and make it more manageable. She knows that while food is powerful in managing osteoarthritis pain, it is only one tool in the tool box and works best in conjunction with other lifestyle changes and medical treatment. I was surprised to learn that there are over 100 different types of arthritis, with osteoarthritis being the most common. The author's information on osteoarthritis, its causes, medications, and diet are helpful and easy to understand.

One feature I found very helpful was that grocery lists are provided for all three weeks of this plan. This makes it easy to see what you already have, and what you need to mark as needed to purchase. I also like the fact that the plan utilizes leftovers. Each week also has a page of tips for things like what needs to be marinated ahead of time, what to prepare in large batches ahead of time to be used in multiple recipes, and what you can make double of that freezes well for a future meal. Advice is also included on what to order when eating out. The recipes are based on a Mediterranean diet, and there is plenty of scrumptious ones to choose from. Tips are also included for many of the recipes such as how to remove pomegranate seeds, allowable substitutions, how to properly clean mushrooms, and compatible side dishes.

This is a five star cookbook, and I am grateful to have received a copy from RockRidge Press in exchange for my honest opinion. I was under no obligation to provide a positive review, and received no monetary compensation.

When I Meet You by Olivia Newport - A Book Review

  

I have truly enjoyed Olivia Newport's Tree of Life series, but his third book is by far my favorite. While it would work well as a stand-alone read, the reader will enjoy it more having familiarity with the main characters built by reading the first two books. In each book there is a contemporary story set in Canyon Mines, Colorado and a back story being researched by genealogist Jillian Parisi-Duffy, frequently assisted by her father, Nolan. The back story includes a mystery of sorts, one for which a genealogist is well suited.

Newport is a master of building relationships and community within her stories. Her main characters demonstrate care and selflessness, and bring out the best in others. I recommend this book, series, and author,and am grateful to have received a copy of When I Meet You from Barbour Publishing via NetGalley in exchange for my honest opinion. I was under no obligation to provide a positive review, and receive no monetary compensation.