Two Tickets to the Christmas Ball by Donita K. Paul

The best word to describe this book is whimsical. It's a light hearted story about 2 people who have worked together for 5 years but meet each other in a odd but fairy tale like bookstore.

Cora has no family to celebrate Christmas with. She is the only Christian in her family and there is too much drama for her to keep in touch that often. She goes into a bookstore, on Sage Street, to buy a gift for a family member and bumps into her boss, Simon.

Simon is all business when he is at work. So focused that he never noticed Cora in the 5 years she has worked just feet from his office. At home he is a funny, loving big brother and son. His father and brother died in an accident and he took on the roll of providing for his mother, grandfather and sister, who has down syndrom.

When Cora and Simon each get home with their purchases from the book store, they realize that they have received a ticket to the Christmas Ball, one that they have never heard of. A series of events bring Cora and Simon to become friends. But will they become more? When Cora's sister, who has a trail of bad reputation that follows her shows up at her door, she may ruin everything. With the Christmas ball coming up, will the magic of Sage Street keep the Christmas Spirit alive.

This story is more whimsical that I usually read. Sage Street keeps disappearing, the store owners on Sage Street use phones that aren't connect to the wall, no one has ever heard of the Christmas Ball or Sage Street when Cora and Simon talk about it. Those things add to the whimsical feeling of the story.

When I read the comments by the author, Donita K. Paul, that many people do not accept the story of Jesus because it doesn't make sense to them, this is how she wrote this story. It has scripture and a way to point to Jesus. The light hearted fun of this fiction story make is magical. The characters are cute and I even cast the characters for the movie! (I will post that below, if you read it you will have to tell me what you think of my cast!) The authors comments made me see the story a little differently. This was a cute read for the Christmas season.

Kate Hudson as Zee
Jayma Mays as Cora.
Patrick Dempsy as Simon
Bette Midler and Kathy Najimy as the sisters
Wizards as Ben Kingsley and Micheal Cain
The photographer, C'Maine - Dustin Hoffman

Oceans Apart by Karen Kingsbury

Karen Kingbury in one book, Dandelion Dust, quickly became one of my top favorite authors! Oceans Apart does not disappoint. There were tears and happiness!

Kiahna has raised her seven year old son as a single mother. The only other person she has relied on is Ramey, an elderly woman who used to have a childcare. When Ramey was no longer able to care for so many children Max, Kiahna's son, is the only child she kept watching. They were like family.

Kiahna had been a flight attendant for over seven years, working hard to support her son. One day Kiahna and her son's worst fear happens when Kiahna's plane crashes in the ocean. Ramey is the sole person to take care of Max. Kiahna never spoke about Max's father until now. In Kiahna's will she left instructions for Max to go live with his dad for 2 weeks. At the end of the 2 weeks he could decide to keep his son or make him a ward of the state.

Connor Evans has been a Captain for an airline for years. He has 2 daughters and his marriage is as strong as ever. But a mistake from his past is about to be revealed. He had an affair 8 years ago. When a call from Kiahna's attorney calls regarding her will, he discovers that he has a son that he never knew about. Now, Connor must decide to keep his mistake a secret and never tell his wife, which would mean Max would go as ward of the state. Or Connor could agree to take Max in "as a friend of his mom's" for 2 weeks and decide if he wants to adopt him at the end of those 2 weeks.

Connor has never told his wife about the affair, what would that do to his wife and family?

This story is so touching. You must read to find out what happens! Bring your kleenex!

Lost December by Richard Paul Evans

Lost December is a novel version of the prodigal son.

Luke Crisp grew up under his father, the CEO and co-founder of Crisp Copy Centers. One day his father suggests that he go to get his M.B.A., see another side of the world, away from Crisp Copy, where he grew up. Then he won't have any regrets and can decide if he will one day want to take over the company. Luke isn't thrilled with the idea but decides he will go ahead on a new adventure.

As the years go by Luke gets involved in the Whantan 7 (a name their group of friends gave themselves). Luke does things he would never have done before, he becomes very distant from his father and when graduation comes, there is a tragedy which makes Luke decide to go home and tell his father he has decided to not take over the business. In fact he is going to take his money and with his friends travel through Europe.

His friends quickly rely on Luke for money to support their lavish living, fine dining, exquisite hotels and gambling. When one day the money runs out. You can imagine what happens next.

I rated this book a 3 star. It's not the intense reading that I'm used to but the storyline is good. Since it is the prodigal son, we all know the story. But being that it's a modern day story, it definitely relates to today and how we think things would make us happy today. This story teaches us to be thankful.

Throughout the book, Luke has different lines from his journal. One was; if you have something to eat, a roof overhead and clean water, you should be most grateful-you number among the world's most blessed! So true!

Another thing I learned was that prodigal really doesn't mean "lost" or "wayward". Prodigal is not referring to the son, it refers to the father. The prodigal son. Read the book and see what I mean!!!

Catching Fire by Suzanne Collins

This is the 2nd book in the Hunger Games Trilogy. I read the first book, The Hunger Games, a few months ago and had a hard time with the thought of kids being killed. I did like the writing and got attached to the characters so I wanted to read the rest of the series to see how I like the rest of it.

Warning: Below contains spoilers from the first book...if you don't want to know what happens in book 1, you may not want to read!

I am glad so glad that I continued to read this series. The 2nd book is better than the first! It continues on after Catniss, the main character, wins the hunger games in the first book.

The hunger games have been going on for 75 years. Each year they pick 2 children, one boy and one girl from the 12 districts to pin them against each other in a man made arena to kill each other off. The games were created to discourage those districts to never rise up again against the Capital. Now they are "celebrating" 75 years of the Hunger Games, call; Quarter Quell. These games have a new twist and the games continue! There is unease in the districts and now Catniss is at the center of it all.

I am actually so bummed that I have to wait for the 3rd book. It ends leaving you on the edge! I am getting into this story! If you can read the first book and then digest it afterwards it is easier to get into it. It's hard to say that I would recommend anyone to read the first book but I would now in order to read the entire story! Just make sure you give the series a chance! I'm glad I didn't quit at book one. We'll see what happens with the 3rd and last one, Mocking Jay!

Grace by Shelly Shepard Gray

Brenneman Bed and Breakfast is family owned. Their family is finally going to be together again for the holidays. They are looking forward to some family time with no guests for the holidays when a reservation arrives late showing they have a guest arriving today!

Levi is trying to get away for the holidays looking forward to time away from family and prying eyes that know his past. He wants to blend in with the guests of the bed and breakfast where he can be alone.

As Levi's taxi arrives at the B&B another unexpected guest, Melody, arrives as well. Not only does she show with a past that she is running from, she passes out at their door pregnant!

The Brennamen family has to welcome and include two unexpected guests for their holiday season. While Levi and Melody had both planned to run away they are the only two guests and are brought in to join the Brennamen family traditions. They had no idea what they were in for.

This story is really cute. It's my 2nd holiday book to read, since I've never really read Christmas stories for the Christmas season. But this one actually made me enjoy the idea and I ordered more Christmas books to read! I think from now on I will dedicate my Decembers to a few holiday books each year! Enjoy!

Choosing to See by Mary Beth Chapman

I just finished this book last night...Was such a great book to read. Made me laugh and cry both at the same time. Very touching.

This is a story about Mary Beth Chapman and Steven Curtis Chapman. It's a story of how they met, the struggles of first being married, her as a mother, fighting depression, challenges of juggling life, how they came to adopt 3 beautiful girls from China and then loosing one of them when their son accidentally hit her with the car at their home. The fear for their son and how they have struggled to get through their loss.

Mary Beth is so very honest in this book. She is so encouraging, that even in the hard times, times of loss or struggles, even just being a mom that she still has hope or prays; "I believe, help my unbelief".

She adds songs in the book that go along with their life. Many of the songs we have all heard on the radio but have a different meaning as you read about their lives. From first being together, from raising kids, to his "Beauty Will Rise" CD, which is the struggles of loosing his daughter.

I highly recommend this book. I'm usually not a non-fiction type of reader but this book is worth the read!

Their First Neol by Annie Jones

This story is very cute. My local book club decided on this read for the month of November to get in the groove of Christmas!

This story was really cute. I always think of these types of books like a Hallmark movie! I could totally see all the parts and see it on the t.v. playing out.

Andy McFarland is working on restoring the local holiday inn that he now own in Mt. Piney, Vermont. He is getting close to his deal line to open for Christmas as a tribute to their annual Christmas tradition before a fire had destroyed part of the inn. One snowy night Corrie Bennington walks through their inn, before their scheduled opening day.

Corrie is in town to make a ginger bread for St. Pineys annual ginger break contest. But her motives for being there are not all about ginger breads, she is trying to find her father, a man that her mother has never spoken about. All Corrie has is his name and where her parents met; the Mt. Piney Inn.

Andy is all business, scheduled and a planner. Corrie is none of these. She walks into Andy's life and he discovers he will never be the same! Will Corrie find her? Will Andy be able to let Corrie into his life?

I recommend this read for Christmas time, it's a cute story and an easy read.

Like Dandelion Dust book vs. movie

After having read the book and then being so excited to see the movie I was surprised it is so different from the book.

In the book Molly's relationship with her sister is way more believable. They are very close which makes the idea for them to go on the trip to Haiti more believable rather than in the movie Molly and her sister have tension because of Molly's beliefs. In the book Molly and her husband, Jake are united all the way. In the movie they fight over each step they take with their son Joey. Jack is always easy going but in the movie he even yells at the social worker and friends to help them. Even Joeys visit with this biological parents is better than in the book, which makes you almost sway your hear to feel bad for them. In the book you can't stand the biological dad from the beginning. The differences are so obvious it's hard to get over them.

Because the story is hard, it is sad to watch, even with the differences. Had I not read the book I may have loved the movie. But because I read the book the movie wasn't all what I expected it to be. I am disappointed. But I'm sure it is still great for those that haven't read the book. And if you don't like to read I would recommend to do so!

Like Dandelion Dust

by: Karen Kingsbury

This book is an incredible book! Like Dandelion Dust is a very emotional and touching story.

A couple, Wendy and Rip Porter, had a child. Rip went to prison for domestic violence when Wendy found out she was pregnant. She hid her pregnancy from Rip and when the child was born she forged her husbands signature to put the child up for adoption. Now 4 years later Rip is getting out of prison and Wendy tells him about their son that she gave up. Rip wants him back. He's a changed man, found religion and has worked through his anger. Maybe he is a changed man and they can be the family Wendy always wanted to be.

Molly and Jack Campbell adopted their son, Joey 4 years ago. Now Molly's sister Beth and her family have moved to the same town, something they always dreamed of. They have a dog, Gus. Her husband has had great sucess in business, they are lacking nothing...or so they think. Along with Beth and her family has come her new found faith in God. Something that Molly and Jack are not in need of...until now.

When the social worker that had worked on their adoption case calls to tell them that the signature for the adoption papers were forged and now their adoption is nullified. The biological father never knew about their son and now the parents want their son back, Molly and Jacks world is shifted. What will they do to keep their son? Will they turn to God? This story is about two mothers and their love for their son. Who will pay the ultimate sacrifice?

I LOVED this story. The first half is building up to the second half of the book. Half way through the book I was bawling like a baby and at the end of the book I was as well. I think this story is a MUST read! I found out it is a movie as well, which is on the way from Netflix right now! I can't wait to watch it!

Courageous

by: Randy Alcorn

This book is great! One if my book clubs read this book and I had no idea it was a book, I had only heard of the movie. If the movie is as good as the book (which I have heard it's great) than I can't wait to watch it. I'm curious to see how much they are alike, cause it was almost like reading the movie, the pictures in the book reflect scenes in both the book and movie...I shall see!

Courageous is about 4 police officers; Adam, Nathan, David and Shane. There is another man, Javier, who joins their small group of friendship through a Divine Intervention. As police officers, they see so much crime in Georgia and all the gangs in their area. These men decide there is a need to stand up for the fatherless children and declare to be better husbands and fathers in their families. This book takes you through the trials (had me crying), their daily struggles, betrayals, their lives as policemen and also the victories in their lives.

This book is an easy read. It's almost like watching a Hallmark movie; as you read you watch their lives play out. Though parts are sad you still feel encouraged. And when you see their victories it challenges you personally! It's definitely a book to help lift people up, to help encourage and show us, the reader, how our lives, families and marriages could be if we let it.

I am excited to see the movie. I would highly recommend reading this book whether you've seen the movie or not! I will have to post how alike they are after I see the movie!

The Hunger Games

by: Suzanne Collins

I had heard so many high remarks about this book/series. People I know have read it and loved it so I thought I would give it a try. I waited awhile because there is a long waiting list at the library but I finally got it. When I was at the library I saw on their board that this book is also a controversial book. Parents tried to have the book banned because it is too violent for teens to read. Now that I have read it I definitely would not have my 13 year old read the book but High School age I would. Maybe 15+ (just thinking of my daughter). Especially since my take on the book seems to be different than others I know that have read it. Then I heard that my 12 year old niece is reading it for school, I was surprised, it is their mandatory reading this year! Not sure I would like that!

Hunger Games...this story is about an earth somewhat different than it is now. There are 13 colonies. Panem was the main colony that ran the earth but the other 12 tried to rise up again Panem and lost. Panem destroyed one of the colonies and now to make sure that the last 11 of the colonies will not rise up again against Panem they created the hunger games.

Once a year 2 children, one boy and one girl, ages 12-18 from each colony have their names placed into a drawing for the hunger games. 24 children in all are chosen and then pinned against each other in a man built coliseum to kill each other! Because it is still a version of earth as it is now, they televise the games on t.v. and bid on who the winner will be! It's a sporting even to those in Panem while the rest of the world is watching. Either thankful that that their child wasn't chosen or watching their child be killed, live!

They go through training and learning how to survive on their own. Each of them is shown off to the world to receive sponsors who can send them gifts through out the game as well. It's the Capitals way of showing the world that they can take their children and more if they wanted to!

I had a hard time with this book. I do like the writing, I did like the story up until the games began. I could have taken the story as gladiators fighting for their lives or a type of games where in the end you are out of the game but not killed. But the idea that children are pinned against each other to kill each other was hard for me to read.

For the most part there wasn't much description on their deaths or gore. But at the end of the book it was more gruesome. Now that I have read book one I do want to read the rest to find out what actually happens but I'm sorry to say that I would not actually recommend this book. Don't just take my word for it but I just had a hard time with it!

Forbidden

by; Ted Dekker and Tosca Lee

I LOVED this book. I'm so excited to have read this book at this time. I was getting in a reading slump having read so many thick, in depth books. I needed something to really enjoy. I was a little nervous since I haven't liked Ted Dekkers last few books, I am so happy that I enjoyed this one. I had no idea this is the first book in a series. It's the first time I've read a book that didn't already have the series finished! And I can't wait til the 2nd one which doesn't come out til 2012! Ugh...the wait!

If you have read the Circle Trilogy I don't know why you wouldn't like this series. It reminds me a lot of it yet has it's own story line. Forbidden is about the world after the Chaos. Rom is confronted by an old man, who calls himself a "Keeper". He tells Rom that his father did not die but was killed protecting a secret. He hands Rom a box and gives him instructions on how to protect it and run. As Rom runs he turns back to see the old man killed by the sword. What is going on?

There is a truth in the box that holds the key to the earths future. A new soverign is about to reign the world but they are living by the Order, and blinded by the lie of that Order. He discovers that the only emotion the world is living on is fear. The human race no longer can have any other emotion, until now. It is Roms call to help expose the truth!

This book is so great! I am excited to also look into Tosca Lee's books, since she co-wrote the book with Ted Dekker. I will have to say that at the beginning of the book there were some emotions described that I could have lived without and at the end it gets pretty gory but it's all part of the story. As a whole I would highly recommend this book to read!!!

The Edge of Recall

by: Kristen Meitzmann

If were not for the fact that my online book club through Goodreads, Christian Fiction Devourers, was reading this book for the month of October, I would not have read this. Or would have put it town after about 1/4 way into the book.

The main character Tess, builds Labyrinths, which has a meaning behind it. (She explains how Labyrinths, unlike mazes that take you around and back out where you started, they take you to the center and lead you out to another path, the future.)

As I read the book I was annoyed by Tess' character. She has a hard time trusting people in her life, especially men. And since most of the characters in this book are men, she has a hard time trusting all of them. She ends up taking a job with an old friend from her past, Smith and his assistant Bair. Smith and Tess' have a rocky relationship, given that she once had feelings for him and he had let her down in her dream to build Labyrinths. But when a dream job opens up with him to build one, she takes it.

The relationship with Tess and Smith is frustrating. From Tess' inabliity to trust and Smith's inablity to commit. To add to the story line, there is a "monster" that is stalking them on the property. He is moving equipment and stealing things in hopes of discouraging them from being there.

This "monster" only plays into part of Tess' past with labyrinths, which she has nightmares about. Tess has a therapist that helps her work through her memories of her father and labyrinths that are at the edge of recall.

When Tess and Smith are confronted face to face with the "monster", Smith is fighting for his life while Tess is getting closer to the mystery of her father and the reason she can't trust.

There are so many components in this book. Relationships, a cruel boss, the Labyrinths, Tess' past, her father, it's just too much. Tess' character only gets better once she discovers the truth behind her father and the memory she had forgotten. And even then she has such a 180 degree turn it doesn't seem realistic to change that drastically, that fast. I wished her character had been that way from the beginning.

The monster was just to odd to begin with. They took that part of the story through twists and turns of ghost stories and Tess' imagination, I wasn't fond of this character in the book at all. Though the mystery that finally comes out at the end of the book was good, it was over shadowed by everything else. The best part of the book was the last 10 pages!

I would not recommend this book. It isn't awful, it's just wasn't a story I enjoyed. Though I can tell others in my reading group did like it. I'm not sure I would discount this author, I might try another one of her stories. Maybe one with a topic that interests me would be better. I do have to say; it's not on the top of my reading list at this time.

Relentless

by: Robin Parrish

Another in depth book! I'm gonna have to read some easy reads pretty soon!

Relentless starts out with; Collin Boyd. He see's himself walking down the street. Someone that looks just like him is wearing his clothes, carrying his briefcase. How is this possible? Collin looks at his reflection in the window to see someone else looking back at him. Someone he has never seen before.

Now Collin is trying to find out who he is. His license says; Grant Borrows, he has a new apartment, a new life. He has a ring on his finger that won't come off, someone is now trying to kill him and he has discovered he was created for a destiny he never knew about or asked for, until now. He is now running against time to discover the truth and the pace is Relentless!

This book reminds me a lot of Ted Dekker's, Circle Trilogy. Very interesting story line. You don't know where it's going or what will happen. I didn't realize until the very end that this book is the first in the Dominion Trilogy. So now I am looking forward to continue the story line with book two. I recommend this book. If you like Ted Dekker you will like this book. If you like story lines that aren't the norm, you will like it as well...

The Truth Teller

by: Angela Hunt

This book is 422 pages, I'm not sure if it's because of the size, story line or both but it took me quite a while to finish!

The truth teller starts out with Lara, a young grieving widow. Her husband died of cancer just 6 months before and she has had a hard time moving on. She is a nurses assistant and decided that since her husband had prepared for the future she wants to have his baby even though he is now gone.

The parallel story line is about a man named, Devin Sloan. He is a scientist that wants to use the DNA of a newly discovered Ice Man from years ago to help make the human race more pure.

With out Lara's knowledge Devin Sloan teamed up with Dr. Braun (the man who helped with Lara's invetro). Just before delivery Lara discovers the hidden truth about the baby she is carrying and runs to protect both of them.

This book is slow moving. You go through Lara's struggle to move on from her husbands death, to her decision to do invetro. Though it is slow moving I was interested in Lara's life. When I first started I was worried the scientific side would be too in depth but it was easy to follow, which I was happy about. About half way through the book things start to pick up and about 3/4 way through the book you really want to know the out come of what happens to Lara and her child.

I have realized that large books like this take me more time to read than I'm used to. With this book you really get wrapped up in the characters and can't rush the story. I would recommend this book but you have to set aside some time to really be involved.

It seems that I have to go back and forth between in depth and easy reads because too many in depth books can be an over load for me! I just finished Riven not long ago and that was another in depth book. I need some easy reads!!! :P

Buried Sins

by: Marta Perry

Marta Perry is a great writer. In July I read the first book to this series called; Hide in Plain Sight. That book happened to be my first free e-book read and I loved it. Another friend read that book as well and found out that it was the first book in a 3 book series. Unfortunately I cannot find the 2nd book at the library but read the 3rd one anyway, which stands alone without having read the 2nd one.

I really liked it. Marta Perry has just enough mystery that keeps you guessing from page one! I was hooked from chapter one until the last chapter when you find out who is behind the mystery. I love that! You want to keep reading to find out and the book never looses it's intensity or gets boring.

Buried Sins is about the 3rd sister, Caroline, or as they call her Caro. Rachel and Andrea, Caro's sisters, have already moved back where they lived (in their grandparents home) when they were children. Caro doesn't have any memories of their grandparents home because they all moved away at a young age with their mother. Caro is forced back to her grandparents home when she finds out her husband, Tony, has died and may have been killed. She is being followed and decides she will be safer with her family, who she hasn't seen in a long time nor told them about her late husband.

Caro's troubles follow her and more secrets about her husbands past are being revealed. She is eventually forced to tell her family what is going on. Meanwhile, the local police chief, Zach, knows something is wrong from the moment she comes into town. As time goes by he is slowly starting to care for Caro as well as questioning who she is because of every thing that is going on around her.

Is Caro telling the truth. Is she innocent or guilty? Enjoy reading to find out. It's a great series!

The Marriage Wish

by: Dee Henderson

I have already read Dee Henderson's O'Malley series, which overall I really liked. I had heard of this book and since I already knew the author I thought I'd give it a try. I have to say that after reading my last book, Riven, which is more my style of writing I just wanted to get through this book. I have 5 other books checked out from the library that I want to get through before they need to go back so I don't know that I enjoyed this book as much as I think I could have.

The Marriage wish is about Scott, who makes a wish on his 38th birthday. He wants to get married and have a family. Only a few days later he meets Jennifer. He is immediately drawn to her but Jennifer is healing from the loss of her husband and has another secret that takes time her to tell him about. She doesn't want Scott to give up her dream but is Scott's love for her able to help Jennifer heal.

Half way through this book I was crying for Jennifer, her story is sad but you so desperately want her to heal from her past. This book is an easy read and easy to get involved with the characters to see what happens with Scott and Jennifer. Just when you think you know the end there is a twist that makes you keep reading til the very end.

I liked this book and would recommend for those that like a good story to unfold as you read. Another one of those Hallmark movie type of books!

Riven

by: Jerry B. Jenkins

I think I have to say this is one of the most intriguing books I have read in a long time. I really like Jerry Jenkins writing. I hadn't realized until half way through the book that Jerry Jenkins is co-author of The Left Behind series, which I really liked as well. There are only a few authors (or books) that I know that give you this kind of writing; Ted Dekker, Frank Perretti and a few of Francine Rivers books. They are more in depth and get you sucked into the story. I really like that kind of writing.

When I started the book I wasn't sure I would like it or even wanted to read it. One of the book groups that I joined on Goodreads was reading this for the month of August, so I decided to try it out. I like finding books I've never heard of.

Riven is about 2 main characters; Brady and Thomas. Brady is a teen who lives with his mother and brother. His mother is an alcoholic and doesn't take care of him and his brother. They live in a trailer park and Braden doesn't think much of himself. Thomas is a preacher. He is old fashioned and people/churches have used his good heart and work him hard but never appreciated him. He has been run out of many churches. Now Thomas is run down and looking for where God wants him to be.

Over the years Brady only gets worse, in and out of jail, becoming a criminal but in the back of his mind he is always wanting better he just doesn't know how to get it. In the mean time Thomas takes a job in prison ministry. When one day Braden and Thomas' lives meet.

This book is a big one, 526 pages! It took me a full week to read this one. Something about the story drew me in. The first half of the book you are following their lives as Brady is in school and Thomas is searching for a pastoral job. The 2nd part when Brady and Thomas' lives meet the story seems to fast forward.

At the end Brady has this idea that even when I read it almost made me not like the book anymore. But as the story played out you understood why he chose to do what he did. (Cannot tell you or it would spoil the entire story). Throughout the whole book I kept trying to figure out what the title Raven meant and it's not until the last few chapters you figure it out.

I would definitely recommend this book and I am going to definitely look up more books by this author.

Goodreads

I was invited by a friend to this site. You can add books you have read as well as look up new books/authors that might interest you. It can be hard sometimes to come across new authors other than by friends. In this site you can look up the style of book you like.

They even have groups you can join. I joined; Christian Fiction Devourers and Contemporary Christian Fiction. In these groups you can meet others that read the same type of books you do. They also have different discussion groups as well as a book that you read for the month. Any Minute was the first book I read for the Christian Fiction Devourers and I will join their first discussion about the book at the end of the month! I thought it might be fun, so I will give it a try!

Anyone who enjoys to read should check out this site...

www.goodreads.com

Any Minute

by: Joyce Meyer and Deborah Bedford

I read this book so that I could join in on a group discussion on line, I had no idea that Joyce Meyer had a book, well a fiction book.

Sarah had worked her way up the corporate ladder. She was counted on, expected to work harder and longer. On her way up the ladder she had left her family behind. She was too busy to remember appointments or keep her promises to her family.

When one day a split decision made her take a risky move in her car and everything changed. She hit the water so fast and everyone realized, including Sarah that things can change Any Minute.

This book does make you think, what do we work for in life? Sarah was not a kind person as she worked those around her just as hard, never appreciating them. She didn't take time for her family, working even at home after a long day at work.

It helps you to remember to slow down. That family is most important. This story isn't a high energy story. It's a good read for anyone and has a good moral. I do recommend this book, especially to moms. Doesn't even have to be a mom that works out of the mom. As a mom that works in the home you can feel the same way sometimes. Life passes by and your just trying to make it, forgetting that each moment you are raising the next generation.

This book made me think. In the end I like how the story ends...not with some dramatic transformation but with suttle ways we can do better...

Last Light

by Terri Blackstock

One day everything electronic stopped running. Whether old or new, ran or batteries or gas. It just quit running. Planes fell from the sky, cars came to a stop on all streets, there were no t.v., game systems or computers. No way of communications, no banks open to get money, no stores to buy goods.

The Branning family were only one of the family in their community to be in the middle of what they would soon learn was a global crisis. They have to learn to survive when after a few days they realize that this crisis just might never end. Learning to cook over a fire, sterilize water from the lake and trade supplies for food.

In the midst of the Brannings trying to cope with the crisis, there is a murderer killing families in their neighborhood and stealing supplies from the homes. Who could they trust in a time when they needed each other to survive?

This story is very creative. It makes you think about what is really important in life. In this story Dani Branning, daughter of Doug and Kay, has worked through college to get her dream job only to realize that the job may no longer be a part of her future. We work so hard to gain things in this life and when our life is over we will leave it all behind. This book makes you ask yourself, what is important in your life.

This is the first book in the Restoration series of four books. The book started out catching your attention with such a different story line. As you go through it builds until the end when you want to read to find out what happens. I liked the book and recommend it, especially since I like Terri Blackstock's writing.

The Very Special Delivery

by: Linda Goodnight

This is another one of my free e-books from the Kobo app I have on my phone. The first time I've read any books from this author. I like discovering new authors that I might have over looked before, being a free book helps me read them!

The story starts out during a snow storm, when an unexpected guest shows up at Molly McCreight's doorstep, a delivery man with a baby. In this storm she can't imagine why they are out in it. She soon discovers that he needs to take some much needed medicine up the mountain and asks her to watch his baby, who he had to pick up from day care with no one else to rely on.

Molly is frightened by the thought but agrees while waiting eagerly for this man, Ethan, to return to take this baby, Laney, away. When the snow storm strands the delivery man and this baby at her home for five days, Molly McCreight is faced with a past that terrifies her. She is not ready to face what God is doing through this man and baby. In the mean time Ethan is faced with his past as well through their growing friendship and even love?

This is an easy sweet story to read. It doesn't have any twists and turns, no suspense but if your up for a good warm hearted story to unfold, like watching a Hallmark movie this is a good book. I like her writing and will look for other books by this author.

The boy who came back from heaven

by: Kevin and Alex Malarkey

After having read Heaven is for Real I thought I knew what to expect form this book but it is not all that much like Heaven is for Real. Within this story there are things Alex is able to talk about heaven and other things that he is not. As he say's in the book, it is like telling you what is in the gift before you open it on Christmas morning. God doesn't want him to tell us.

The story begins...Alex and his dad were driving on their way home from church and were hit by a car. Though Aaron was in his carseat and was held in place, his neck was broken. His skull was separated from his spine. (Same injury that Christopher Reeves had). None of the medical staff expected him to survive but God had a different story.

The car accident was in 2004 and to this day the family is still praying for Alex's full recovery. As you read this book you see from the moment of the accident to now, how God has performed miracle after miracle. From healing Alex's neck, to waking him up, to helping him have no brain injury - he came back as the Alex they knew, from helping with their home, food to bills. Too many miracles to count!

The most amazing thing is this book is Alex. He tells of the few things about his visits to heaven. He still goes to visit heaven, even after he woke up. He can see angels and the presence of God. It's amazing to read about a boy that though he is now a quadriplegic is spiritually alive! God has used him to touch so many lives.

His dad wrote so many great quotes in the book. He wrote a poem;

Alex cannot walk, Jesus walked on water. Alex cannot talk, God spoke the universe into existence. Alex cannot breath, the Holy Spirit is the breath of life. Therefore...I will not look to the world, But to the Word. I will not look at my son, But to the Father. I will not see with my eyes, But with my Heart. I will not fall victim to the prison of circumstance. I will worship my God and abide in his hope. Let it be...

Amazing words for the circumstances they are facing. He said in the book that people ask how can you do it, I couldn't and he said, "When God has you do something, you just do it!" "The real question in not what it is like to be in a wheel chair? The question is, What is God like when your in a wheelchair, because he does give abundant grace."

This story is not just for those that want to find out about Alex's story of survival. This story actually challenges you spiritually, Where do you stand? and What do you believe?

My favorite quote by Alex's dad is;

"My son couldn't function in the physical world, but I was handicapped in the spiritual world. Who has the greater disability?"

I watched a small clip online about him and his dad said it brings you to this one question, "Do you believe what you believe or do you just talk about it!"

The Help book vs. movie

After having read The Help, in three days, I was SO super excited to watch the movie! Well I have to say that I was not disappointed! All my hopes for this movie were met. There were slight differences in the movie from the book but nothing that took away or added from the story. They left out a scene from the book that I actually could have done without in the book too, haha! They even cast the story just like you would imagine them to be in the book as you read! The only thing I like about the book over the movie was the ending. There was a little difference that made the book a little more uplifting in the end. But this movie is a must see as well as the book!

Heaven is for Real

by: Todd Burpo with Lynn Vincent

My mother-in-law and father-in-law bought this book and both read it just recently. Since they finished I borrowed it to read as well. I had also read 90 minuets in Heaven last year.

(90 minutes in Heaven is mostly about the authors struggle to recover from his accident. The first chapter is the best one of his actual account of heaven. I still remember him talking about seeing those he knew and how he wasn't sad to leave those behind).

These books are more of an interest since the loss of my nephew last year. Wondering what heaven is really like.

I really liked Heaven is for Real. The thing I loved most about it is the way that Todd, Colton's father wrote his story. It was from Todd's point of view but he wrote it with the child like aspect of his son, Colton.

Colton came close to death with a ruptured appendix. He had to have emergency surgery. During that time Colton went to heaven. It took months and years for details to come out of what he saw and those that he met but the accounts he describes are hard to deny. When Colton was in surgery he was only three. He describes things that happened while he was in surgery (such as where his parents were and what they were doing) to things that a three year old would not particularly know; how the throne of God looks, about the Holy Spirit and what Jesus looks like. You can't help but believe.

While there Colton says he met his great-grandpa, who he had never met on earth. He also met his sister, whom died in his mother's womb. Having family members in heaven it makes me think of them waiting for me to arrive. As well as a child I also lost in my womb. I never really thought I would meet him/her one day, who I names Christian Joy!

This book is an easy read. It only took me a day to complete it. The way Todd writes this story is so sincere, well worth reading. This book also lead me to another account of a girl who talks about her encounter with heaven. Akiane, her life, her heart, her poetry. She is a great artist who also drew a photo of Jesus, who Colton says looks like Jesus!

Presumption of Guilt

By: Terri Blackstock

Once again this story follows Detectives; Larry and Tony. In Presumption of Guilt Beth Wright is writing a story on the St. Clair Children's Home. She is a reporter who has been interviewing those that know what has happened inside the home. Nick Hutchin's, social worker has had questions about the children's home but started to dig deeper when Beth goes to him for help.

Bill Brandon runs the St. Clair Children's Home. He can't let the story Beth is writing to be printed. He will go to any lengths to make sure and people are starting to die.

Presumption of Guilt doesn't have as much mystery as some of Terri Blackstock's books. Which was how her last two books in this series seemed. In her other series she has the same people involved and you see how things progress with them in each book. In this series you do have the same people in the first book involved but not so much as in say her Cape Refuge or Newpointe 911 series.

Presumption of Guilt is the last book in the Sun Coast Chronicles. I would have to say I have liked other series better just for their mystery but wouldn't write this series off, I still really liked book two, Justifiable Means, the best out of the four.

I still really like Terri Blackstocks books and will move onto another series. I can't wait!

Ulterior Motives

by: Terri Blackstock

Ulterior Motives is book 3 in the SunCoast Chronicles. It follows Larry Milsaps through another mystery. This time most of the spot light is on his partner Tony.

Ben Robinson is fired by his boss Louise Dubose and evicted from the home that the apartment provided by his job at the art studio. Later that day Louise is killed and Ben is framed from the murder. With no where for Ben's family to go, he is forced to move back in with his ex-wife. He has two children by his ex-wife, Sharon and now two other children by his new wife, Anne. Things are not going so well between Sharon and Anne.

To make matters worse Ben is trying to prove his innocence when someone starts calling Sharon's home with ransom. The police don't believe him. Until his two daughters; Christy (Sharon's daughter) and Emily (Anne's daughter) are kidnapped. It's a race for their lives.

After having read the 2nd book, Justifiable Means, Terri Blackstock wrote this book a little differently. You know who is the killer from the very beginning. Though some of the dots are connected as you read along I was surprised she revealed so much so fast. It was a good story though. I like the characters and wanted to find out if Sharon and Tony end up together. (Though if you have read Terri's other books you know how her stories end up). The race to find the girls in the end does keep you reading as well.

This book wasn't my favorite out of this series or over all but it's not a bad book, it would still be worth reading. I just wouldn't put it at the top of my list, I'm just comparing. Being that it is a part of the series you would read it to continue on to book 4. I hope the next one has more of the mystery I like Terri Blackstock for.

On another note, I always read her Afterwords which explain her idea for the book she just wrote. This one has that meaning of the motives of our hearts. That is another reason I like Terri Blackstocks books. She puts challenges in her books to help you look inward as you read. Funny when I'm doing a study on Romans touching on the same subject of judging others when you do the same things. What is your heart condition!?

The Help

by: Kathryn Stockett

My friend read this book just as the previews for the movie were coming out. I had not heard of the book until she mentioned it and she said I should read it. Well, I went to the library and was #71 on the waiting list. I posted on FB to see if anyone had the book for me to barrow and another friend of mine lent me the book! Within the first few chapters watching the previews was so funny cause I was starting to see who the characters were and made me want to finish the 500 page book in one night! Of course, I couldn't! But I did finish it in 3 days!

This book takes place in the 1960's when white's had help in their homes. In this story there are 4 main "white" ladies and their help that you follow. Skeeter decides to venture out and write a book about "the help". Back then speaking out could get you fired or worse so it is a huge risk that the woman take to tell their stories.

You are drawn in with the characters and stories of how the help love the children and are treated so poorly. To how the white woman treat their children and even Skeeter when they suspect what she is up to.

This book is now in my top favorites list. I was sad when it ended. I think everyone should read it before you see the movie, even after. It was SO good!

Here is the trailer for the movie if you have not seen it.

http://youtu.be/WbuKgzgeUIU

Dreams of Joy

by: Lisa See

I read the first book Shanghai Girls a few months ago. I was shocked when I finished the book because it ends so abruptly, I wanted to know what happened. I looked up Lisa See's webpage to find out that the 2nd book had just come out so I waiting to get it from the library. I am still actually on hold 225 of 264, to be exact! Having gotten into e-books, I found out that you can request e-books from the library. They only have a few books available but Dreams of Joy was one of them. I was only 3 of 3 on the waiting list and finally was able to download it to my itouch to read! The crazy thing is that the book is 1,575 pages! A big book, even bigger on such a small screen!

Dreams of Joy picks up from where Shanghai Girls left of. Joy found out that her father, who had just died was not her birth father. She also discovers that her aunt is really her birth mother who gave her to her aunt, Pearl to be raised as her daughter. (In protection during their arranged marriages). Joy realizes nothing she knew is true and she wants to find out who she is, so she goes to China, after being born and raised in California, to find her birth father, who does not even now she exists!k

When her mother, Pearl, finds Joy gone the next morning she follows her back to her home country, China, to find her. She fears the worse, that her daughter was killed for being a communist trying to enter the country from America. (At this time the boards are closely watched for who goes in and out).

The story follows both of their journeys into China. How Joy is hit with a reality she didn't expect. Her father takes her from Shangai to the country. They are there to teach the country people of art. They have no running water and very different beliefs than she was raised with.

It also follows Pearl returning to the home she thought she would never see again to find a daughter she doesn't know will accept her anymore. When Pearl finds her daughter she struggles to regain her daughters trust.

Joy falls in love and wants to live in the country rather than stay in Shangai. Her mother, Pearl and her new found father try to deter her but she will not listen. But once married and her parents leave she is left to realize things were not like she thought they were.

This story is heart wrenching. From the Chinese culture and the things that those people endured under their leadership as a nation is just amazing. It's also sad to know that the stories she tells are from different people she has spoken to, to put in this story.

You have to read the series to find out what becomes of them all; Joy, her aunt Mae, her mother Pearl and her father, Z.G. It's a story that keeps you reading to find out what happens.

I have really enjoyed reading Lisa See's books. But I'm also interested in China. May not be for others but she is a good writer. Would recommend to give them a try.

Through the Fire

By: Shawn Grady

My 2nd e-book! I do have to say that I'm not sure I'm sold on e-books. There are pros and cons. The convenience of not having to carry a big book around with you is a plus. But I do love watching how far I am getting in a book. With an e-book you see the percentage of the book you have read but I love seeing the pages turn! I also am not one to pay for books, which is why I go to the library but this is one of 12 I found free through my Kobo app. So I will read whatever I can get free. The other nice things about e-books is you can get a book in minutes!

Through the Fire is about a fireman, Aiden. He used to hear the fire, like his father once did. But a killed Aiden's dad and he doesn't believe it was an accident. Now a string of fires are happening that seem to be on purpose and Aiden is caught in the middle. He doesn't know who he can trust.

The book starts out with a fire that goes wrong, so you are hooked from the first couple of chapters. But then I felt like the intensity was so high in the beginning that the middle seemed to progress slowly. I wanted to find out what happened so I kept with the book. It does pick up again and your are caught up again guessing who is starting the fires.

I do think the book it is worth reading. I liked the story line, I just wish it had kept up with the intensity of the drama from the beginning. Especially after the last book I read, In Plain Sight, which had to guessing chapter to chapter. I will definitely look for more books by this author and do recommend reading this book.

Hide in Plain Sight

by: Marta Perry

This is my first e-book that I have read. I have an itouch (my mother's day and birthday present combined) and ran across an app called Kobo. I thought I would try it out and found some Christian fiction novels for free!

I was pleasantly surprised with this book. Hide in Plain Sight takes place in Amish country. When Andrea's sister, Rachel is in a car accident Andrea is forced to leave the city to go back to the family farm to help her grandma with the last minute details needed to open their home into a B&B, called The Three Sister's. Andrea is torn between what she thinks is best for her grandma so she can return to her life or help with her grandmother's dreams and stay.

Things are not all the same as they were when Andrea was a kid. Neighbor kids have all grown up, her grandfather has past away, her grandma has a new tenant on the property, Calvin, and not everyone in town is happy another B&B will be opening. Andrea has to learn who she can trust, especially when someone is entering their property at night to frighten her.

This book was a great mystery. You also get wrapped up in the characters that you want to keep reading to find out what happens. I was guessing until the very end! Another friend of mine read this book and liked it just as much as I did. She even looked up other books by this author to find out that this book is in a series. The first one of 3 based on the Three Sister's; Andrea, Rachel and Lisa. I can't wait to read the other two!

Kiyo's Story

by: Kiyo Sato

I am doing the summer library reading program. They give you a bingo sheet with various things to do through the summer. Each time you get a bingo you turn it in and get put into a drawing. One of the bingo squares is to read a biography.

My family went to the County Fair this year and I ran across a table about writing. Kiyo was there with her book. I barely met her, had not heard of the book before but I took a flier that day.
When I saw my bingo card I figured I would read her book!

This story is about Kiyo's family. How her father came to America from Japan, how he married her mother and settled in Sacramento, of all places! It's so funny to hear her write about driving down Franklin Blvd. when it was nothing but country!

Her father worked on farms when he moved here and then was finally able to owned his own farm growing Strawberry's. She tells stories about their family growing up. Kiyo was the oldest of 9 children! In Dec. 1941 Japan bombed Pearl Harbor and life changed for the Sato family. Kiyo was in College at this time but those who used to call them friends would no longer talk to her family. They were searched by the military and many husbands were taken away because they were suspected of being enemy traitors.

Only months later they had to evacuate their home to a "relocation camp" (not to be called a concentration camp). She tells of her story of packing, taking 9 children on a train and ending up in the heat of the summer in AZ! (I can not imagine!)

A few months later Kiyo is the first in the concentration camp to be released to go to College and is sent to Michigan where for the first time she is away from her family. Years later her family is also allowed to move to Colorado work a sugar beet farm.

This story is Kiyo's first book that she has every written and I believe it is one worth reading. I truly love hearing about people's journeys in life. Kiyo always mentions a saying her mother would always say; "Moh sukoshi gaman o shite" Persevere a bit longer. This story is about true perseverance of the Sato family to survive and prosper in America.

I wish I had read this book so that I could have spoken with Kiyo Sato at the County Fair, I will try again next year! You will have to read it to find out what happen's to the Sato family! Enjoy!

Justifiable Means

by: Terri Blackstock

This is the 2nd book in the Sun Coast Chronicles. The first book was
Evidence of Mercy. Larry Millsaps is in the first book investigation a plane crash. (You can see my post on that book in the archives, under May). I have already read 3 other series by Terri Blackstock, her books are always worth reading.

This book follows Detective Larry Millsaps through an investigation of Melissa Nelson, who was attacked. When they interview her she knows the person who attacked her, Edward Soames and has evidence to convict him. As they investigate Soames, he has a rap sheet that doesn't help his plea of innocence. But as they keep digging they also find that Melissa has a past of her own. Who is telling the truth?

I kept going back and forth with the evidence; thinking I knew what was right, then second guessing. As you read on the mystery gets really good and I was up late finishing the book to find out what happens. Terri Blackstock has enough mystery to keep you guessing and you get hooked on the characters. She even brings back the characters from book one. Which I like, you can follow them through the series. I think this book was better than book one and I can't wait to read book three!

The Memory Keeper's Daughter

by: Kim Edwards

I am not sure where I ran across this book. I had thought it was a Christian novel but as I read discovered that it was not.

This book is based on a couple; David and Norah. The books starts out with the birth of their son Paul and an unexpected twin Pheobe. David delivers his son and then his daughter Pheobe but one look at Pheobe and he realizes that she is born with downs syndrome. In 1964 they actually had the mother sleep during delivery so she is unaware of the second birth. David makes a decision and hands his daughter over to Caroline, the nurse who was assisting. He tells Caroline to take Phoebe to an institution for these type of children expecting that her life will be hard and short.

Growing up David had a sister who was very sick and saw what it did to his family when she died. He wanted to spare his wife and son the heart ache of loosing a daughter and sister, like he had. When Norah wakes, David tells her that their baby daughter died in child birth.

Caroline took Phoebe to the institution and saw that it was a horrible place so she made a decision to take her out of town and raise Phoebe herself. Two decisions that would have drastic consequences.

David and Norah grow apart. Norah from the loss of her daughter, is never able to really recover. David with the wall he built from his secret. He turns to photography to capture moments in life but some how always separate from it. Their son Paul grows up feeling the distance between his parents and doesn't feel accepted by his father.

Paul grows into a young man, in love with music. Phoebe who faces challenges actually grows into a young girl. Caroline sends letters along the way to David and in turn David sends money to help raise Phoebe.

I had no idea when I started the book that it is also a movie. I plan to watch it now that I have read the book. I would recommend the book. Though it is not a Christian book the story is compelling. I have to say that I thought the story was sad, it's amazing what one choice can do. David thought he was making a right choice to protect his family and never predicted what other affects that choice would cause. You have to read the book to find out if the secret was ever revealed and what became of Phoebe and Paul!

The Priest's Graveyard

by: Ted Dekker

This books starts with a story...

Danny grew up in Bosnia but when his family is killed he takes on a new calling for his life, to rid the world of those in the world that deserve judgement.

Renee is a junkie from the street, running to survive being killed by the man that is after her, Jonathan Bourque. When she is "rescued" by a man named Lamont.

A year later Danny, now a Priest and Renee, who is no longer a junkie, cross path's in unexpected events. They soon discover that they share the same goal, to rid the world of injustice. The road they take takes them down a long path of secrets that soon takes a turn into Renee's past. Renee is faced with a choice, will she choose Judgement or Grace and Love?

I'm surprised at the last few books that Ted Dekker has written. I have read all of Ted Dekker's books and have only come across a few that were not my favorite. He quickly became one of my favorite authors. But the last two I've read; Emanuel's Vein and this book, it's not that they aren't my favorite, I really don't like them! I'm not sure if Ted Dekker has is changing his style of writing or trying out new ideas.

It always amazes me how fast he writes his books and I'm sure I will read his next book in hopes that I might like it as much as I have most of his books in the past. But for this book, The Priest's Graveyard, I'm sorry to say, I wouldn't recommend this book to read.

Vicious Cycle

by Terri Blackstock

I had no idea you were able to order books from other cities through the library system. If I remember right, this book came from San Diego. I was pretty excited though, since it really is one of very few in CA to request!

I read The Intervention and then was so sad when I couldn't find the 2nd book, Vicious Cycle. The Intervention can be found under my book reviews for April. The back ground story of The Intervention is about Barbara's daughter, Emily. Barbara has an interventionist come to take Emily to a rehab center because her life is spiraling out of control on drugs. But when Emily's interventionist is found dead and she has gone missing, her mother, Barbara, does everything in her power to find her.

Vicious Cycle picks up the story a year after The Intervention ends. Emily is about to graduate from her year in rehab when one of the pregnant fifteen year old girls, Jordan, from her rehab center runs back home. When Jordan gives birth, things get crazy. This time Emily's brother, Lance is caught up in it. Jail, kidnapping and drugs. When will the vicious cycle end?

Terri Blackstock has officially become one of my top favorite authors. I truly enjoy reading her books. This two book series is a must read.

Kindle vs. Nook Color

Recently I had a chance to play with a Amazon Kindle and a Nook Color. I had never gotten to see either of them before and wished I had someone else's opinion to bounce ideas off of. I thought I'd write a blog about both of them.


The Amazon Kindle...

This is a great product for those that are looking strictly to read. The Kindle that I was able to check out was not a 3G, so it did not have the ability to go online. I'm not sure what ability the Kindle does have with 3G.

With the device that does not go on line you are only able to go on the Amazon listing to pick out a book to download. This device is strictly black and white and everything you do reads as a book. It is sleek, interesting screen, very easy on the eyes.

If you are looking to read a book this is for you. No bells and whistles, no color. Just strictly reading.

The bummer for me is that I read so much. When I was looking up books that I would enjoy reading they were typically between $9.99 and $15. For those that read about a book a month it would be perfect but for me I couldn't afford to keep up my habit. I read a book a week, on average. At $9.99 a book, that would be pretty pricy. I also use the library for all my reading which allows me to get those same books for free and then turn them back in. Though the library is heading toward e-books and has a few in stock, non of the e-books are ones I would like to read. And they are no where near for a Kindle all the time, that is still quite a few years away. So...for me this device is a pass.


Barnes and Nobles Nook Color...

I was able to play around with a nook color. NOT just a nook but the nook COLOR. This thing is AWESOME. Though the downfall is that it is a little more expensive than a Kindle, you are getting more than the Kindle offers.

The device is in color for one which makes it nicer to look at. It has a big screen to surf the internet with Wi-fi and touch screen, which I always like. When connected to the internet it looks just like the internet when you are on a computer. My favorite thing about being online was that you are able to watch t.v. online! LOVE that!

Another of my favorite features is their children's books. You have the option to read the book on your own or they are narrated while you listen to the story. Some of the books are interactive so the characters move or they have other activities.

The Nook Color also offers apps, yes apps! Though not many. There are a few games and children's activities including; Drawing Pad, Uno, Pandora (online radio) and Pulse (up to date news and sites that you add). Great to use on a larger screen.

Now at this point I have to say that my dream would be to own an ipad! So of course I gravitate to the Nook Color. But the one thing that the Nook Color is lacking is the lack of apps. If Barnes and Nobles would allow the nook to download Android games being that it is an Android product it would be an even better product. But like the Kindle, the Nook Color is an e-reader with more bells and whistles.

Between the two, strictly based on e-readers the Nook Color wins, hands down.


Here is my disclaimer...

If you are like me looking for apps rather than an e-reader you may be hoping for the Kindle and Nook Color to do more than they are built to do. You might be better getting something like the itouch, which is based on apps which includes a Kindle and Nook app to download if you wanted to get a children's book or a book for yourself once in a while. The only bummer about the itouch is your giving up the bigger screen that a Nook Color has but it is not a device built around e-reading. And it's much better price than an ipad!!!