Posts Tagged Review
REVIEW: HILLARY RODHAM CLINTON On The Couch by Alma H. Bond, PH.D.
Posted by The Literary Melting Pot in Book News, Reviews on February 22, 2015
SYNOPSIS
In the fourth installment of her “On the Couch” series, famed female biographer Dr. Alma Bond looks inside the head and life of presidential frontrunner and informs voters what she’s found.
REVIEW
This is the most original concept I’ve come across!
What an extraordinary read! I felt like a fly on the wall in Dr. Darcy Dale’s office, as the author has a gift for depicting a situation as if it is actually occurring. Every chapter was an open doorway to a room full of intimate details about the former First Lady, which made the sessions more realistic. From birth to Benghazi, and beyond, this novel explores Clinton in a most enjoyable, and sometimes heartbreaking, manner.
I’m not a colossal fan of politics, but Hillary Rodham Clinton has always intrigued me. I’ve read several articles in the past, but her story has more depth than I originally considered. The Bibliography is quite extensive; therefore, this was getting several points of reference at once. When you consider what this woman has been through and how she persevered, it’s hard not to admire her. Alma H. Bond, Ph.D. has delivered a powerful interpretation of an enigmatic figure!
I think it’s brilliant!
ABOUT THIS LITERARY CHEF
Dr. Alma H. Bond is the author of twenty-one published books, including, most recently, Marilyn Monroe: On the Couch, Jackie: On the Couch, Lady Macbeth: On the Couch; Michelle Obama: A Biography; The Autobiography of Maria Callas; Margaret Mahler: A Biography of the Psychoanalyst; Camille Claude: A Novel; America’s First Woman Warrior: The Story of Deborah Sampson; and Who Killed Virginia Woolf? A Psychobiography.
Dr. Bond received her Ph.D. in Developmental Psychology from Columbia University, graduated from the post-doctoral program in psychoanalysis at the Freudian Society, and was a psychoanalyst in private practice for 37 years in New York City. She “retired” to become a full-time writer, but now maintains a small practice in addition to writing.
Dr. Bond is a member of the American Society of Journalists and Authors, the Dramatists Guild, and the Authors Guild, as well as a fellow and faculty member of the Institute for Psychoanalytic Training and Research, the International Psychoanalytic Association, and the American Psychological Association. She was one of the first non-medical analysts to be elected to the International Psychoanalytic Association.
Dr. Bond grew up in Philadelphia, where she obtained her undergraduate degree in psychology from Temple University, and following voluntary military service, moved to New York, where she earned a Ph D. in psychology from Columbia University.
A longtime resident of New York City, she lived for nearly a dozen years in south Florida, and now resides in Carlisle, Pennsylvania.
Blog Tour Stop, Review & GIVEAWAY! Diamond Rings are Deadly Things by Rachelle J. Christensen
Posted by The Literary Melting Pot in Book News, Reviews on February 17, 2015
Adrielle Pyper knows how to plan a wedding, and she is especially good at pleasing bridezillas. But when her biggest client and best friend is murdered just three days before the wedding, Adri’s world falls apart. She moves to the resort town of Sun Valley, Idaho, and starts from scratch. Thanks to Adri’s impeccable taste and unique style, she lands two celebrity clients, and her business seems headed for success–that is, until someone vandalizes the specialty wedding dresses she imported from overseas. The race is on to uncover a secret hidden within the yards of satin and lace before Adri becomes the next victim. With a delightful blend of mystery, toe-curling kisses, humor, and spine-tingling thrills, Diamond Rings are Deadly Things is a romantic suspense novel that will keep you turning pages long into the night.
Amazon
REVIEW
I was lucky enough to receive this gorgeous paperback, which is the format I highly recommend, in exchange for an honest review.
This was such an absolute delight to read! The illustration is exquisite, and the creative ideas provided before each chapter are quite resourceful. Adri and Lorea are adorable, the “Bridezilla” is incorrigible, and the mystery is elusive. I love Christensen’s writing style, and her descriptive narrative makes every setting, taste, smell, and feeling almost tangible. The websites and craft ideas are pure genius! Elegant, descriptive, and entertaining!
About This Literary Chef
Rachelle J. Christensen was born and raised in a small farming town in Idaho. She graduated cum laude from Utah State University with a degree in psychology.
She enjoys singing and songwriting, playing the piano, running, motivational speaking, and of course reading. Rachelle has an amazing husband, five cute kids, three cats, and five chickens.
Website * Facebook * Twitter
Blog * Goodreads * Craft Website
Blog Tour Giveaway
$25 Amazon Gift Card or Paypal Cash
Ends 2/25/15
Open only to those who can legally enter, receive and use an Amazon.com Gift Code or Paypal Cash. Winning Entry will be verified prior to prize being awarded. No purchase necessary. You must be 18 or older to enter or have your parent enter for you. The winner will be chosen by rafflecopter and announced here as well as emailed and will have 48 hours to respond or a new winner will be chosen. This giveaway is in no way associated with Facebook, Twitter, Rafflecopter or any other entity unless otherwise specified. The number of eligible entries received determines the odds of winning. Giveaway was organized by Kathy from I Am A Reader and sponsored by the author. VOID WHERE PROHIBITED BY LAW.
Review: Within the Shadows by Julieanne Lynch
Posted by The Literary Melting Pot in Reviews, YA Fiction on January 31, 2015
FREE AT TIME OF POSTING!
SYNOPSIS
Living on the razors edge, Giselle Bergman’s life is torn apart by her cheating boyfriend. Little does she realize that he is the least of her worries when her long term friend, Alex, reveals a secret long hidden, and introduces to his family and a new, darker world; a world of lies, deceit and corruption.
Thrown from one problem straight into another, the razors edge gets thinner and sharper, testing Giselle’s sanity and vitality. Never truly knowing who her allies are, Giselle soon learns not to trust anyone, not even herself.
How far will Giselle run to escape what fate has dealt her?
Will she truly be free from the shadows that not only want her soul, but have her reborn as their Queen?
Join Giselle on a journey that is only beginning…
Not even she can hide when living within the shadows.
REVIEW
This was a very fast-paced novel that never stays on one path!
This was one wicked ride that left me dizzy, but I’m anxiously awaiting the rest of the story. I’m a thrill junkie; therefore, this novel was my cup of tea. The writing style is creative, and though the story line may not seem uncommon, the events that take place are very irregular. Our heroine deviates from the predicted path often, and there was not a moment in which I could tell whom she could trust. While some of the actions are typical of an erratic teenage girl, there were a few instances in which I felt she could’ve used a little more intellect. However; this novel is so addictive I do not feel deterred, and I look forward to reading the next installment. Excellent debut!
This is not a stand-alone and I recommend it for ages sixteen and up.
GRAB THE NEXT INSTALLMENT
COMING SOON
CONGRATS TO JULIEANNE, AS THIS SERIES IS GOING TO BE ON THE BIG SCREEN! CHECK OUT HER WEBSITE FOR MORE INFO.
ABOUT THIS LITERARY CHEF
Julieanne Lynch is an author of urban fantasy books for both adults and teens. Julieanne lives in Northern Ireland, is married to her childhood sweetheart and together they have five children.
Before becoming a writer, she considered a few different career paths, a rock star being one of them. She studied English Literature and Creative Writing at The Open University, and considered journalism as a career path. However, she decided writing was the way for her and believes all of her education and reading prepared her for it.
An avid reader, Julieanne has always had an encompassing fascination with folklore. When not writing, she enjoys crime series such as Criminal Minds, CSI, NCIS and Cold Case, and loves anything with Vampires, listening to metal, meeting new people, drinking lots of green tea, and sharing her dreams with her children. She is a self-professed goth wanna-be,and is happy when left to write into the early hours of the morning.
CONNECT
Review! Favorite Daughter (Part One) by Paula Margulies
Posted by The Literary Melting Pot in Reviews on January 10, 2015
Favorite Daughter, Part One
by Paula Margulies
ISBN 13: 978-0-9913545-2-8
ISBN 10: 0991354524
One People Press: July 21, 2014
Synopsis
Set in the time of the Jamestown settlement and the English explorer John Smith, Favorite Daughter, Part One recounts the story of Chief Powhatan’s daughter, Pocahontas, as she prepares to take her place as one of our nation’s earliest leading women. Pocahontas invites readers to experience her native world when strangers appear on the shores near her village. From forging a relationship with the charismatic Smith, to experiencing love for the first time and creating a role for herself in her father’s plans for peace, this young girl takes us on a poignant and harrowing journey through the turbulent events of her life. Eventually betrayed by all of the men she loves, Pocahontas matures into a heroine of tremendous nobility, courage, and heart.
Told in first person, in a voice brimming with compassion and wisdom, Favorite Daughter, Part One provides a compelling look at the early days of one of the most remarkable legends in American history.
Review
Pocahontas was one of my favorite heroines growing up, as my ancestry carries Native American blood. Her bravery and perseverance through what must have been a nightmare at times is not only heartbreaking, it’s inspiring.
I thoroughly enjoyed this novel! The author has done a wonderful job of bringing this extraordinary character and the Powhatan tribe to life, in a manner that’s believable. The research invested is evident, and shines through with every turn of the page. Although a work of fiction, I found this to be the most intimate and realistic portrayal of Pocahontas to date.
This is a treat for lovers of Native American History, as well as Historical Fiction/Romance. Adding to the story, Margulies has a Powhatan glossary for reference. Readers should be aware that this is a cliffhanger and merely covers Pocahontas’ coming of age. I look forward to the next installment as we read this author’s take on our heroine’s adulthood.
*Editor’s Choice Award Winner, 21st Annual San Diego State University Writers’ Conference*
Paula Margulies is the owner of Paula Margulies Communications, a public relations firm for authors and artists. She has received numerous awards for her short stories, essays, and novels, including her historical novel, Favorite Daughter, Part One, her debut novel, Coyote Heart, and her short story collection, Face Value: Collected Stories. Paula is a contributor to Author Magazine, the San Diego Examiner, and The Writers Edge
BLOG TOUR STOP & GIVEAWAY! SEDUCING THE RUTHLESS ROGUE by Tammy Jo Burns
Posted by The Literary Melting Pot in Book News, Reviews on December 11, 2014
Seducing the Ruthless Rogue
by Tammy Jo Burns
The Rogue Agents #2
Publication Date: October 19, 2014
Also in this series: Taming the Wicked Wulfe
Genres: Historical, Romance
![]()



Synopsis:
As Director of The War Office, Stuart McKenzie, has proven himself capable of making difficult decisions in times of crisis and keeping government secrets safe. When he walks in on someone ransacking his study he quickly moves to apprehend them, only to be tossed on his back as the burglar escapes into the night.
Cassie’s father has become a pawn in the fight against Napoleon. When the enemy kidnaps him, she will do anything it takes to get him back – including stealing government secrets from Stuart McKenzie, the Director of the War Office.
When Cassie is caught, she reluctantly agrees to Mack’s assistance as there is something far more sinister going on. As Mack embarks on his mission, he will find that enemies are often closer than one would think and that sometimes your ally will come in the least likely form. When passion erupts between Mack and Cassie, they find their lives forever altered. But just as they believe their lives to be free of danger, a new threat is lurking about, promising to rip their happiness away from them. Will they be able to trust each other enough to defeat this new threat, or will they be torn apart for all eternity?
REVIEW
This was a fast-paced read that I simply could not put down!
I admit that I was expecting more content pertaining to the wars during this period, but the author has done a superb job of delivering a thrilling alternative.
Mack and Cassie are intelligent, gorgeous, and very hard-headed! Both have inner demons, which sometimes cloud their judgment. It is this, along with a few other similarities that cause the fiery couple to butt heads. These altercations can be comedic, heartbreaking, and incredibly sexy! I enjoyed reading as the layers were peeled back and our hero and heroine were truly revealed.
This novel stands alone well. Each sorrowful scene was countered with either comedic relief, or an act of kindness. The mystery involved had me second guessing everyone, and I couldn’t get enough of the passion! I will be reading the rest of the author’s work, as the secondary characters are too wonderfully written to ignore. I thoroughly enjoyed this novel, and I recommend it for romance and mystery lovers.
About This Literary Chef
From a young age I could always be found carrying around books to read while watching my grandmother’s soap operas with her. I read anything and everything I could get my hands on and even made up skits and stories for my friends and me to act out. Once I outgrew the children’s and YA books, my mom introduced me to an entirely new world – contemporary romance. Upon discovering I had a love for history I began devouring historical romances. One day, sitting in a college British History class, something the professor said made me think, I wonder. I quickly called mom (also a writer) and ran the idea by her. After being told, “Of course you can do it, you’re my daughter,” the rest, as they say, is history. I currently share my love of reading with the next generation as a high school librarian, and share my personal life with my demanding dog trapped in a cat’s body, Ajax.
REVIEW! THE BEAUTIFUL ASHES by JEANIENE FROST
Posted by The Literary Melting Pot in Reviews on August 31, 2014
Title: The Beautiful Ashes
Author: Jeaniene Frost
SYNOPSIS
In a world of shadows, anything is possible. Except escaping your fate.
Ever since she was a child, Ivy has been gripped by visions of strange realms just beyond her own. But when her sister goes missing, Ivy discovers the truth is far worse—her hallucinations are real, and her sister is trapped in a parallel realm. And the one person who believes her is the dangerously attractive guy who’s bound by an ancient legacy to betray her.
Adrian might have turned his back on those who raised him, but that doesn’t mean he can change his fate…no matter how strong a pull he feels toward Ivy. Together they search for the powerful relic that can save her sister, but Adrian knows what Ivy doesn’t: that every step brings Ivy closer to the truth about her own destiny, and a war that could doom the world. Sooner or later, it will be Ivy on one side and Adrian on the other. And nothing but ashes in between…
REVIEW
What an exciting start to the series!
The author has creatively blended mythology, folklore, and fantasy with skill. The romance blooms slowly, but the action and suspense take a front seat in this installment. The background is revealed on a “need to know” basis, which fueled my need to know! As I raced through the pages, I was entertained and intrigued by the various obstacles Ivy and Adrian had to overcome. Biblical/Christian mythology is the front runner here, and very brilliantly implemented. It’s always a refreshing treat when an author puts an impelling twist in a novel that involves ancient beginnings that most can recognize.
Ending, or pausing, with a cliffhanger, I’m left with too many questions to stop now. Bravo to Frost, as you’ve hooked another fan with your enticing bait!
LINKS
LAST DAY OF GIVEAWAY!
ABOUT THIS LITERARY CHEF
Jeaniene Frost is the New York Times, USA Today, and international bestselling author of the Night Huntress series, the Night Prince series, and the upcoming Broken Destiny series. To date, foreign rights for her novels have sold to twenty different countries. Jeaniene lives in North Carolina with her husband Matthew, who long ago accepted that she rarely cooks and always sleeps in on the weekends. Aside from writing, Jeaniene enjoys reading, poetry, watching movies with her husband, exploring old cemeteries, spelunking and traveling – by car. Airplanes, children, and cook books frighten her.
For information on Jeaniene’s books, reading the first 20% of each book free, book trailers, deleted scenes, creature mythology, and more, please visit: http://www.jeanienefrost.com
BROUGHT TO YOU BY
REVIEW!! DARK SECRETS(DARK #2) by MADELINE PRYCE
Posted by The Literary Melting Pot in Reviews on July 21, 2014
Dark Secrets (Dark #2)
Publisher: Ellora’s Cave
ISBN: 9781419991370
Genre: Erotic Paranormal Romance
Theme: Vampire/Demon (a few shape shifters thrown in there…)
Length: 85,000 words
SYNOPSIS
The worst moment of Micah’s life was when Ella nearly died in his arms. Her miraculous recovery should have been the start of their future. Unfortunately, a new demonic heritage, the Shadow Agency’s corruption and Julian, the vampire who turned Ella, are testing their relationship. Despite hotter-than-ever sex and a variety of new places and positions to explore, Micah begins to wonder if a relationship based on lust can survive for more than a few scorching-hot months.
Ella has forgiven, but not forgotten, the fact that Micah once plunged a dagger through her heart. Everything with Micah is passion, excitement and an uncontrollable desire to explore his body in a variety of very satisfying ways. But as buried secrets, ongoing lies and murderous deceptions pile up, Ella is reminded that she and Micah’s relationship was based on a curse. In order to forge a future together, Ella and Micah will have to face down their personal demons—and prove that love and trust are more than just words.
***EXPLICIT CONTENT INTENDED FOR MATURE READERS ONLY!!***
REVIEW
**THIS NOVEL IS A PART OF AN EXTRAORDINARY SERIES. WHILE IT COULD BE READ ALONE, I ADVISE READING THE PREVIOUS NOVELS***
Powerfully erotic! I have an impression of Ella and Micah branded in my dreams!
Madeline Pryce takes this genre to a different level with an astute scenario that mesmerizes! I couldn’t tell where she would lead our fabulous paranormal characters next, and I couldn’t read it fast enough. A definite plus is that there’s nail biting intimacy to go along with the nail biting storyline! The banter between Ella and Micah is comical at times, and very alluring. It was an exciting change to have the narrative bounce back and forth between them, which was done so flawlessly. They have that “it” factor, which immediately speaks volumes for the author’s writing style. Each supporting character plays a pivotal role that affects the outcome, as they’re not wantonly thrown in to take up space. I’m completely hooked on this series!
Simply put: If you want a clever story with a lot of spice READ THIS SERIES!
Highly recommend to mature readers! I loved it!
A Romantica® paranormal erotic romance from Ellora’s Cave
Buy Links
Amazon US – http://amzn.com/B00LMADNXS
Amazon Ca – http://www.amazon.ca/dp/B00LMADNXS
Amazon UK – http://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B00LMADNXS
Amazon AU – http://www.amazon.com.au/dp/B00LMADNXS
BN (Nookie!) – http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/dark-secrets-madeline-pryce/1119935913?ean=9781419991370
Kobo – http://store.kobobooks.com/en-US/ebook/dark-secrets-23
Goodreads – https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/22464543-dark-secrets
Series Reading Order
Dark Cravings (#1 Ella/Micah – 85k)
Dark Innocence (#1.5 Hannah – 45k)
Dark Secrets (#2 Ella/Micah – 85k)
Dark Vengeance (#2.5 Castro – 45k) – release date coming soon!
Dark Promises (#3 Ella/Micah) – Spring 2015
ABOUT THIS LITERARY CHEF
Madeline Pryce wrote her first novel when she was ten, penned with neon-pink ink in a loose-leaf binder. Captivated by romantic literature, yet intrigued by the paranormal, she continues to develop her own voice, writing the kinds of stories that inspired her as a teen.
Author Links
Blog – http://madelinepryce.blogspot.com
Facebook Page – http://facebook.com/madelinepryceauthor
Facebook (I welcome friends!) – http://facebook.com/madeline.pryce
Facebook Fan Group – https://www.facebook.com/groups/madelineprycefanclub/
Twitter – http://twitter.com/madelinepryce
REVIEW & GIVEAWAY..SMORGASBORD by Jagjiwan Sohal
Posted by The Literary Melting Pot in Reviews, YA Fiction on July 11, 2014
Title: Smorgasbord
Author: Jagjiwan Sohal
Genre: Middle-Grade/Young Adult Comedy Horror
Length: 170 pages
Release Date: March 2014
ISBN-13: 978-0615971919
Imprint: Mythos Press
SYNOPSIS:
When Anna Lopez’s zombie attack video goes viral, no one could believe that the high school cheerleader had taken a bite out of the undead monster – and liked it! Now nothing will ever be the same for supernatural beings…because humans have discovered they taste freakin’ DELICIOUS!
And when a zombie boy gets in the crosshairs of a gang of hungry-human hunters, Julie, a young vampire loner, jumps in for the rescue. But now Julie’s got more than she bargained because taking care of a rambunctious undead creature who only knows one word (“brains”) is NOT easy. And when Julie and her zombie pal stumble upon on a crazed soccer mom, they find themselves on the run from a trigger-happy family who want nothing more than to grill them up for a neighborhood barbecue bash!
Ceecee’s son: a rising 7th grader’s review
My thoughts:
I’ve always liked fantasy books, and they haven’t always been as action-packed as this was. This was one of the best books I’ve read in a long time. What I liked the most was the concept. It was both great and funny that Julie and brains were trying to not get eaten by the humans, same goes with the other monsters. I am going to tell my friends about this book!
CeeCee’s Review
Reading & Discussing this creatively adventurous novel with my sub-teen was a blast!
There are several characters that make this book amazingly unique, but our main focus is on Julie, a teen vampire, and a zombie- child whose only vocabulary is “brains”. While these two run for their lives, they’re lucky enough to encounter more paranormal creatures with the same problem: they’re the newest culinary fad. Unfortunately, there’s a psychotic woman leading a group of hunters that makes ted nugent look like mr. rogers. Throw in a zombie rancher, his spokeswoman, and a reporter scorned, and you have one heck of an adventure!
For the record, I’m not a zombie fan, but I truly enjoyed this book! This author is brilliant! I highly recommend picking this one up!
As a parent, I must warn that there is some descriptive violence involved here. Although my son & I had a wonderful time reading this, I wouldn’t recommend this novel for children below the 6th grade.
we’re GIVing away 10 copies!
AUTHOR INFORMATION & LINKS
Born and raised near Toronto, Canada, Jagjiwan Sohal works in the Canadian film and TV industry as an up-and-coming screenwriter and producer. His short stories have been published by The Horror Zine, Scribal Tales and Hello Horror. Smorgasbord is his first novel.
BROUGHT TO YOU BY






















































