COUNTRY IS MY ROCK - TRENT TOMLINSON

This is a great CD. I don't usually listen to the radio but happened to have it on between CD's and heard, Just Might Have Her Radio On. When I returned home, I found the video on Youtube, then searched other songs by Trent. There were several great songs on the CD, and quickly purchased it. Trent has a amazing talent for singing moving songs. Can't wait until his next CD is released.

IF ONLY

This is an amazing movie. One that will shock you to the core! One of those movies everyone should see. Don't miss out...watch it.

THE LAST SIN EATER

What a great book. It was a bit hard to get into but there was just enough to keep you going, needing to get answers to questions. The ending was very meaningful, impacting me in such a way the story is still with me long after I stopped reading it. It really came together in the end. One of those books everyone should read. Once I discovered the movie was out, I had to see it. Of course as it always is the case, the book was much better then the movie, though I’m still glad I saw it. I suggest you read the book first; otherwise the movie won't make as much sense.

KATE WALKER'S 12-POINT GUIDE TO WRITING ROMANCE

This is a wonderfully written book. I've been writing for some time but it wasn't until I read this book that I realized why my writing wasn't working. This is a MUST read for anyone who wants to write fiction. Easy to read, to understand, and right to the point.

Read it...you won't be disappointed...in fact you'll wish you'd read it sooner.

I was told she's coming out with an updated edition, so watch for that.

TOO HOT TO HANDLE & SWEET WIND, WILD WIND

The first story, TOO HOT TO HANDLE is an amazing story. Right from the beginning I was hooked and hooked bad. I couldn't put it down and read it in only a few short days. This story was fast paced, well written, with a lot of tension between the main characters. The only thing I didn't like was that it was a little too heavy on the sexual talk but because of the rest being so great, I couldn't put it down, and loved it.

The second story SWEET WIND, WILD WIND, I started to read but soon realized I’d read it before but even so, I had a hard time putting it down. I have so many books I want to read, I can't justify reading the same one twice...at least not at this stage of my life. It too is a great story, fast paced, well written.

THE DREAM GIVER

A friend of mine borrowed this book to me, and I'm thankful that she’d chosen to share it with me. It's an amazing book! One filled with life lessons, what life is all about, and the paths in life we take. I agree wholeheartedly with all that was writer, and was so moved by this book I've shared it with many others. My only regret is I don’t have the funds to purchase one for everyone in my life.

Truly, this is one of those must read in ones life, books. And the sooner the better.

IT'S AMERICA

I was so happy when I discovered Rodney came out with a new CD. As soon as I spotted it at the store, I purchased it. Even though I had yet to hear any of the songs on it, I knew I’d like them. His first album was so great, how could this one not be as well.

As soon as I purchased the CD, I listened to it and soon after wrote my review. I just had to share my thoughts on this great CD. The songs are great, all upbeat, with great lyrics. There the kind of songs that makes you want to dance around the house while listening to your ipod. What a great CD to listen to while working out.

UPDATE, ONE MONTH LATER

I’ve been listening to IT’S AMERICA nonstop. The more I listen the more I love it. Great CD! Not one bad song on it.

TOMMY BRANDT

GREAT MUSIC FOR COUNTRY AND CHRISTIAN MUSIC LOVERS

I guess I’m pretty out of the loop by not watching TV, or reading the newspaper, or listening to the radio. Don’t get me wrong, I watch DVD’s, and listen to CD’s…all the time. I just rather watch and listen to what I want, not what a TV or radio station thinks I should be watching and listening too.

With that said, I had no idea there was Christina County out there. Because of facebook, I discovered Tommy Brandt. Then I checked out his music. Wow! I found several songs I liked. So many in fact it left me no choice but to purchase not one but THREE of his CD’s.

I could hardly wait to receive the CD’s I had ordered. I can’t seem to get enough of Tommy’s music. Each CD has one great song after another. He has an amazing voice, reminds me of Alan Jackson, with great lyrics. Honestly, I often forget I’m listening to Christian music until I really focus on the words. And then once I do, I just love his music all the more.

REMEMBER ME

After reading PIECES OF SILVER the ending left me with no other choice but to immediately start reading the next, REMEMER ME. I don't recall having read a book that ended in such a way I HAD to read the next. There was no way I couldn't after an ending like that.

The second book didn't disappoint. Right from the first page I was captivated as I was swiftly brought into Josef's world with lots of surprises. It's hard to believe how quickly I went from not really knowing Josef, nor liking him to feeling sympathy and warmth towards him. I thought that was an amazing feat on the author's part.

REMEMBER ME could be separated into three books. The first portion was a true love story where Lissa and Josef fall in love as they get to know one another. I loved Hank's dedication to his son as well as the changes Josef goes through. The next section of the book had Lissa and Josef off to war with all that entails. And the final section is revealing Josef's past with the inevitable trial.

So what I walked away with after reading this book is a wonderful love story as well as one of change and redemption. It was fascinating to live through a war, as well as the early 1900's with the characters. I felt as though I was right there with them.

ON WRITING

This was the first book I read on writing, and because of this book I started my first novel. Though it's been several years since I read it, what stick out in my mind the most is Stephen Kings words "just write". I had no idea how to even begin, let alone if I could finish a novel. He gave me the okay, and the courage to just start and see where it leads. I was too focused on the how's and what's...all things that had hindered me from starting. He also offers some helpful insight to how he accomplishes his own writing.

ONLY MINE

This book was absolutely amazing! Right from the first pages I was captivated. It was wonderfully written, a great story with love and feistiness between the main characters. How could you not love them? This was the first book I've read by this author, and will surly be looking for more. I desperately want to read the others in the series after meeting the other men. Though it was a little too steamy for my liking, I thoroughly enjoyed it.

PIECES OF SILVER

PIECES OF SILVER is a wonderful story, and true to every Maureen Lang book I've read. Always well written, and a story that has you flipping quickly through the pages. What a wonderful story of faith, love, trust, honor, and betrayal.

I found it a fun, and intriguing read, taking me back in time. One thing that really stood out was the absence of cell phones. How different things have become because of such technology. Maureen has a unique way of telling an intriguing story with love gently woven in. And though the romance is not the main focus, you can feel it and sense it all throughout the story.

Liesel is a wonderful character that you're sure to admire for her courage, and honor. David's character is subtle, yet strong, determined, faithful, and honest, as well as gentle, and caring.

The dilemma Liesel finds herself in is wonderfully told by Maureen. Not getting as familiarized with Josef as the other characters, and because of who he is and what he does, obviously one would not like him, yet you find yourself feeling sorry for him as well as for his father.

I loved the way the story ended. Wow, what an amazing ending to a wonderful book. Just as soon as I finished PIECES OF SILVER, I immediately grabbed the next book, REMEMBER ME off my bookshelf. I couldn't wait to get started on it. Though I've only begun, the beginning doesn't fail to draw you right in to the story. I feel like I'd only flipped the next page instead of starting a new book. Already the story has me hooked. I can't wait to find out what will unravel in this one.

WHY FRENCH WOMEN DON'T GET FAT

Everyone should read this book. It has a lot of wonderful insight to eating right. I don't believe in "diets". What I believe in is eating healthy. Watching the amount you eat, how often you eat and what time of day you eat. Making good decision. Exercise. This book basically reiterates that with some helpful hints.

It's been several years since I read thIS book so I don't recall a lot of details. What I do remember, what I got out of it the most is to pay attention when you're eating. Have no distractions. I totally believe in this process though I don't follow it. I have kids that often interrupt meals, and when they aren't around I'm I like to get in a little reading. But I am more aware of what I'm putting ino my mouth as I eat since reading the book.

The other thing I got out of this book is that dark chocolate is good for you...so to speak. And I LOVE dark chocolate so I now have a stash in my refrigerator, and have a VERY small piece of it everyday. I truly believe this helps satisfy any possible craving for "junk" as much as living by the rule, you should be able to indulge in some good things that aren't necessarily good for you. It's all about quantity and moderation, and you must make great choices the rest of the time, along with exercising.

So all in all, I felt there were several things in this book that were good enough that to this day I still incorporate into my life. Therefore, I deem this book well worth the money I paid, and the time I spent reading it.

FAITH LIKE POTATOES

FAITH LIKE POTATOES is a wonderful movie. It was inspirational and moving. Make sure to watch the documentary on Angua Buchan's story as well. It made me want to watch the movie all over, again.

In watching this amazing story, I was quickly brought back to the exact moment I truly accepted Jesus into my heart, along with the trials and tribulations that can follow. So very true to life.

Frank Rautenback did an amazing job at playing, Angus. I hope to see him in more movies in the future. Angus' story is a true inspiration, and a lesson we all should not just grasp but live out.

Listen to your calling, and then dive in...no matter what.

MICHAEL MCCLEAD

Michael McClead is not your typical Christian music. They have a unique style, and sound, almost like Ozzy Osbourne meets Christian music. I almost feel like I'm not listening to Christian music until I focus on the words which are amazing. Each song seems to glide into the next. There's not a bad song on the CD, which says a lot.

HER LONE COWBOY

As usual, I couldn’t resist the book section at the store. I already have many books at home to read but like to checkout the latest, especially looking for any new books that are out by my favorite authors. If there’s a cowboy on the cover or mention of one in the title that always catches my eye as well. To be honest, many of the “Harlequin” and “Steeple Hill” books are basically the same.

HER LONE COWBOY caught my eye because of the cover and the title. As I often do, I started to read the first few pages. They’re typically the same, so I often put them back down knowing I have far too many books waiting to be read at home. Not so with this one. This cowboy had lost an arm. Not your typical storyline. And from the few pages I had read, it was well written. I couldn’t put it back. I had to know how the author handled such a storyline.

In only a day and a half I had completed HER LONE COWBOY. This was my first read by this author, and I’ll be looking for her books in the future. The book was very well written with an original storyline. I also loved that she kept it clean. Very refreshing. I quickly fell in love with Noah, as well as love Lily’s character. Many great lines, and never a dull moment.

DARK HORSE

Wow, what an amazing CD! Believe it or not, the first time I'd ever heard of Nickelback was at church during a service. That's right. They played a portion of the song SAVE ME which by the way is a great song, on an amazing album, ALL THE RIGHT REASONS.

Every now and then I check to see if they have anything new out. Now mind you, I'm a country lover through and through. Love Josh Turner, Blake Shelton, Craig Morgan, Rodney Adkins, Trent Tomlinson, just to name a few. But I like to think of myself as a well rounded person when it comes to music. So I checkout out a few of the songs on Youtube and Amazon, and knew right away I had to have this one. I've only had it for a shot time but let me tell you, it's nothing short of amazing. I love it. There are many great songs that will grip your soul. Chad is an amazing singer and song writer. He has an amazingly unique sexy voice. And the words...WOW, how deep and profound, and to add that to his voice and the way the music is put together is nothing short of a gift from God.

I still have yet to figure out if he is a man of God but from many of his lyrics, if he is not, I'd have to guess he will one day.

MENTOR: THE KID AND THE CEO

Title: Mentor: The Kid and the CEO
Author: Tom Pace with Walter Jenkins
Publisher: MentorHope Publishing; 1st edition (August 1, 2007)
Pages: 175


The MENTOR: The Kid & The CEO, is a must read for all. It's well written and reads like a great novel. Positivity, optimistic, perseverance. This is the attitude and way of life everyone one should be striving for. This book will bring hope and encouragement to those down on their luck, thinking life has nothing to offer them. It really cements the idea that our own thinking and actions can either make or break us. In the end it is up to you. To have mentors throughout your life is vital, and having God as the center of your life is a must.

I found myself continually saying, "Yes, yes." I loved how Malcolm made it a point to teach both Tony and Gary what is needed to be a good person as well as successful in life...in all areas of their life. We can all learn something from this book whether it be from Tony's perspective, that with the right attitude, good morals and hard work, you can do anything. Or from Malcolm whom we witness the importance of looking beyond ourselves and doing for others. After all, isn't that what God has called us to do, and in doing so we end up being a winner as well.

You reap what you sow, so sow well.

ONCE LIFE MATTERS

ONCE LIFE MATERS is a quick, easy read. Right from the first page you’re drawn into Marty’s world. The insight to being in the music industry in that era and all it entails is fascinating. Though it’s a biography/non-fiction, ONCE LIFE MATTERS reads like great fiction.

As I read about Marty’s journey I couldn’t help but be amazed what he survived. It’s clear that God had a bigger and better plan for Marty then he had for himself. And He wasn’t giving up on him. Marty just needed to walk through that door that was being held open for him time and time, again.

ONCE LIFE MATTERS is straightforward in how one repeatedly ignores Gods whispers, and where that road can lead. Without God we are lost souls, constantly searching for purpose and meaning in our lives.

I loved the way Marty wove in scripture relevant to what was going on in his life, hindsight that will speak to its readers.

It may have taken Marty years, as it often does many of us but he finally found his way. Not only did he find his way but he continues to walk through open doors, following Gods whispers, and sometimes shouts to do amazing work in His name.

Marty is a walking testimony that lives can be changed, and not only changed but totally turned around. A great inspirational story for those of us in the Prison Ministry, as well as for those struggling with some of the same issues Marty had.

I highly recommend this book for those in the Prison Ministry, as well as for those struggling with addictions, in prison or are far from God and feel their life is meaningless and hopeless.

ONCE LIFE MATTERS is encouraging to those struggling in life, as well as inspiring to those with loved ones far from God and caught up in their own nightmares.

THE COWBOY'S COURTSHIP

Can you say perfect? That is the word that comes to mind in regards to this book. I'm pretty sure I read one of Brenda Minton's books in the past, and what I remember is that she was a good writer. What I didn't remember is that she is an amazing writer! Really, As one that has way too many unread books at home, spotted this book on the bookshelf of Wal-Mart, and because it was Inspirational AND had a cowboy on the cover, and in the title I picked it up.

That was my first mistake.

The second was to start reading it. Yikes, I now HAVE to read more, so off into my cart it went, to the checkout, and now only a couple days later I'm writing a review on it. I'd put her writing right up there with Debra Clopton whom has been one of my all time favorite Steeple Hill writers.

As an aspiring romance writer I've found only a handful of authors that can pull off the inspirational romance in my eyes, and even less with my favorite theme, Cowboys. One of the reasons I picked this book up off the bookshelf was out of curiosity to read a modern day inspirations cowboy/ranch setting and Brenda Milton exceeded all expectations.

I'll be looking for more "cowboy type settings" from Brenda in the future.
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THREE ROADS HOME

THREE GREAT STORIES IN ONE BOOK

SOMEBODY:
Somebody drew me in right from the first page. Not surprising with Travis Thrasher's writing. I just loved this story. It was all about regrets and seconds chances. I loved how Travis wove together pieces of an email, along with the past and present. In the end my heart just swelled and tears filled my eyes. What an amazing ending to a wonderful story.

IN CARE OF:
In Care of was a unique story about first love, and loss and how one would now handle seeing that person again after years have gone bye...now that their married...to another woman. This is something that could happen to any of us. It was a great story about the struggles Stephen went through, and the decision he made in the end.

STILL LIFE AT SUNSET:
Still Life at Sunset had me stumped. Travis went from past to present, and in the end it took me by surprise. This story had me turning the pages, wondering what was going on. What was going to happen? In the end, I was shocked to find out the truth about Brad and Anna.

EASTER PROMISES

EASTER PROMISES, two great stories in one book.

DESERT ROSE, by Lois Richer
The Desert Rose was a cute and unique idea for a story. Many scenarios tend to play out in story after story but for me, I have yet to read such a storyline as this. It was refreshing and well written.

BLUEGRASS EASTER, by Allie Pleiter
As always, Allie does not disappoint with her humor. Really, she has some of the greatest lines, always bringing a smile to my face or a chuckle from my lips. I loved Paul's story, and how healing occurred in his life. Loved the transformation of Audrey, and how though she didn't seem to be a "kid" person, was able to connect with Lily, helping to bring her and Paul together.

EVER AFTER

This is probably my all time favorite movie! I LOVE this movie. I've never really been drawn to Drew Barrymore as an actress but she seems to show up in all the good movies. She's an amazing actress.

I have watched this movie so many times; I'm surprise it still works. I love it so much that when it came out on DVD, even though I had it on VHS, I bought it. This is one of those movies that you'll want to watch over and over.

This movie has inspired me in so many ways in my fictional Romance writing. It is everything and more then I could possible expect in a Cinderella story. I search on Amazon and was suprised to find they have it in book form. Can't wait to read the written words.

Just talking about the moive is making me want to curle up in my warm bed tonight and watch it. It's definitly one of those feel good movies.

SING ME TO SLEEP

Wow, where do I begin. I was blown away when I read TAKEN BY STORM by Angela Morrison's, so I had no doubt, SING ME TO SLEEP would be good. Yet I couldn't have begun to foresee what an impact Beth's story would have on me.

When I finish reading a book, I often run to the computer to write my review. Not so with SING ME TO SLEEP. There was no way I was emotionally ready after finishing the final pages. Heck, I wouldn't have been able to see the screen, anyway.

I was pre-warned that I would need a box of tissues. Silently I said to myself, I don't think so. As an avid reader, I've read my share of tearjerkers. One tissue, maybe...but a box? I don't think so.

I couldn't have been more wrong.

As an aspiring writer, I was in awe of Ms. Morrison's writing as I read one great line after another. There was nothing I would have changed and that's saying a lot. It exceeded anything I could have conjured up. She has a uniquely amazing way with words. Each line was perfect in every way. I laughed. I cried. I was angry. I smiled. I felt every emotion Beth, Derek, and Scott experienced. I felt as though I were right there in the midst of their lives

On page 88, my jaw dropped. Some of the sweetest words you could image came from Derek and Scott. Ms. Morrison is more then a writer of fiction. She's a poet and a song writer as well. I was so caught up in the story that I longed for a soundtrack of, SING ME TO SLEEP.

I was taken back to my school days, living them through Beth and Scott. Many faces came to mind of past schoolmates. Kids today need to hear this story, as do teachers and parents.

SING ME TO SLEEP is filled with trials, and tribulations, as well as friendship, love, hope and faith. It was moving, gripping and intense. It set me on an emotional rollercoaster from the very first line to the very last!

I have never experience a book such as SING ME TO SLEEP where I sensed what direction the author was taking the characters early on, then doubted my decision several times, then was blown away by the final chapters.

This morning after the kids left for school and my husband for work, I sat down in the living room to read the remaining seventy pages. God must have known I would need the solitude. I began to read and couldn't put it down. There were moments where I was chocked up but I kept reading, absorbing every word.

I held back my emotions...until I got to page 291. That's were I lost it! I have never HAD to step away from a book before. After several long minutes, I was finally able to pull myself together enough to read the final pages. This was not the first time I've cried or got caught up in a book but NEVER to this capacity. I was an emotional wreck through the last three chapters. They were truly the most powerful chapters I've ever read.

This book is a must read for preteen, teens, young adults, teachers, parents, and so many more. One can not help but get caught up in the lives of these characters, each one beautifully done. I savored and absorbed every word, often rereading many lines because they were that good.

I see "movie" written all over this book. If some producer doesn't snatch it up, they'll be missing a great opportunity.

Watch out, Nicholas Sparks.

THE TIME OF OUR LIVES

So I bought this CD for my nine-year-old and it didn’t take long for it to end up on my ipod. After hearing PARTY IN THE USA over, and over, I picked up on the beat and was soon hooked. After putting it on my ipod I really began to absorb the words, which just made the song all the greater.

IT IS WHAT I TRULY FEEL ABOUT MUSIC!

Right after PARTY IN THE USA is, WHEN I LOOK AT YOU. LOVE that song as well. I can’t really speak for the rest of the CD because I haven’t been able to move past those two songs. There that good that I keep repeating them over, and over, and over.

Oh yeah, PARTY IN THE USA!