Mind Fog Reviews

Prisoner and Survivor: William's Story by Brian Kittrell

2011-10-21T12:36:00.000-07:00

Prisoner and Survivor: William’s Story is the third tale of four in the “The Survivor Chronicles” by Brian Kittrell that I have had the pleasure to read. This book tells William Merris’s point of view on the events of the biological bomb with the virus Revelation a/k/a Kemper A. The story starts when William escapes from jail before the zombies can turn him. Once he escapes he meets Tiffany and Edgar who travel west with him because Wiliam sees a vision of a girl telling him to go west. Will all of them get to the west where it is safe or will the zombies get them?

In reading “Prisoner and Survivor: William’s Story” I realized again how much work Mr. Kittrell has put into this series. I love the history that Mr. Kittrell has put in William’s character and in fact there were times where I succumbed to the feeling that I was William. I also like how Mr. Kittrell has started to show how all the characters are going to come together. I am impatiently waiting for the last book.

4 Bookmarks
Carol Langstroth, Manager and Reviewer
Mind Fog Reviews

Blood Clay by Valerie Nieman

2011-10-13T16:15:00.000-07:00

Blood Clay by Valerie Nieman is an interesting kind of story that tells how Tracy Gaines, who just relocated to Saul, North Carolina, watches a little girl get maulled by a pack of dogs. As she tells the truth of what happened on that fateful day, most people don’t believe her because she is an outsider. The only one who truly believes her is a fellow teacher, Dave Fordham, who has his own problems with people accepting him. As Tracy struggles with fighting for her principles of right and wrong, she finds friendship and love with Dave. Will the truth of what happned to

Lakesha heal the wounds of the people involved or will it tear families apart.

Ms. Nieman’s book “Blood Clay” is a book that shows characters that have principles and that it’s hard when you have to stick up for yourself. In fact the characters felt very real to me. One of the things I loved is it also told some of the history of North Carolina. I also loved that the relationship between Tracy and Dave starting out as friends and then become involved with each other. I think women of the south no, make that all women, would like see more books where the characters started out as friends instead of hopping into bed at the first scene.

“Blood Clay” should be on everyone’s “to read” list.

4 Bookmarks

Carol Langstroth, Manager and Reviewer

Mind Fog Reviews

Review for Hunting Season

2011-08-25T08:03:00.000-07:00

Hunting Season by J.E. Taylor is the sequel to Vengeance. Steve William is doing everything he can to find Kyle Winslow, the man who killed his baby daughter and put his wife in a coma. After the death of his partner and boss Steve receives help from the partners father, Chris Ryan, who is a former criminal. Chris uses his expertise in hacking and knowledge of the underworld to help track Kyle. Can Chris and Steve find Kyle fast enough or will Steve’s wife and Chris’ wife be killed before they can?

Sequels are not usually as good as the first book. I am very pleased to say that Hunting Season is as good or even better than Vengeance. Ms. J.E. Taylor finishes the story completely, however she left herself some wiggle room for another book if she should chose to do so. I loved the characters in Hunting Season, especially Chris Ryan’s wife and son C.J. I can honestly say that it will be a shame if people don’t read Vengeance and Hunting Season by J.E. Taylor as it’s a fantastic read to escape the bad news of the world.

4.5 bookmarks
Carol Langstroth, Manager and Reviewer
Mind Fog Reviews

The Forget-Me-Nots by Ginger Simpson

2011-07-19T13:26:00.000-07:00

The short story The Forget-Me-Nots by Ginger Simpson is a delightful story of a woman named Sarah who, while going through her mother’s things after her death, finds a keepsake called The Forget-Me-Not with her mother’s name, a date and a man’s name she does not recognize. She embarks on a journey to find out more about this keepsake.
This is one of the better shorts I have read in a long time. It has a well written plot, believable characters and a wonderful ending. It isn’t like many of today’s short stories where you find something missing like a plot or character development. If you need a small break from a long day and want a book with a feel good ending, The-Forget-Me-Nots is a keepsake of a story.

5 bookmarks
Carol Langstroth, Manager and Reviewer
Mind Fog Reviews

The Officer’s Journey by Eric J. Obmann

2011-07-13T10:46:00.000-07:00

The Officer’s Journey by Eric J. Obmann tells us a fantasy that came to life for Captain Lloyd Players, Commander of the 37th Calvary Division of the British Army. In a middle of a battle he suddenly finds himself being pulled into another dimension/ world called Holihand, where the people are fighting someone from the future of Earth’s time. Will Commander Players be able to help them? Will he be able to return to Earth and his own time?
The Officer’s Journey, I felt was a different take on time travel. Captain Players didn’t just time travel, he traveled to a different world, which I thought was interesting. Another thing I liked was the character of Captain Players was true to himself throughout the whole book. He didn’t change who he was in a different world/time.
The one problem I did have was with the second half of the book. I don’t want to give away the ending of the book as it does have merit. I felt the second half went way to fast and could have been more developed.
I know some hard core fantasy readers that would love this story and I will be recommending it to them.

3 bookmarks
Carol Langstroth, Manager and Reviewer
Mind Fog Reviews

The Locket by Ginger Simpson

2011-07-13T10:42:00.000-07:00

The Locket by Ginger Simpson centers around a locket that seems to cause people to murder. The story starts in 1940 with a woman giving it to a priest after she killed someone and the story follows the locket through the years. Can a simple locket cause all these women to kill or is it just a coincidence?
I am a big fan of Ginger Simpson and I am surprised to find a different type of book from her than her romances. I have to say she shows with The Locket that she can write just about any genre. I found this to be as enjoyable as or maybe more than her other books. She definitely has talent.

3.5 bookmarks
Carol Langstroth, Manager and Reviewer
Mind Fog Reviews

Ghost Ship’s Cry by Dawn Luedecke

2011-07-13T10:40:00.000-07:00

In Ghost Ship’s Cry by Dawn Luedecke we find that Laura’s brother’s ship wrecked and he didn’t come back with the rest of the crew that survived. All of Laura’s pleadings to the Lighthouse Keeper Alston to keep looking for her brother has fallen on deaf ears. Her mother comes up with a plan to make Lighthouse Keeper Alston look for Laura’s brother. Does the plan work and is Laura’s brother still alive?
Ghost Ship’s Cry was a fast read and at times it went a little too fast. Don’t get me wrong it has a good plot and the characters are well written. I did, however, feel the need to have a little more romance in this storyline. Being that this is a short story this is to be expected and one hopes to see characters more developed in a novella should the author make more of this storyline. I would have liked to have more time with Wade Alston and Laura in a romantic situation. Also I would have liked to have seen more scenes with them finding Laura’s brother.
Still it’s a great escape for 20 minutes when you are overwhelmed by your day and need a break that is enjoyable. I would not sink this author’s ship as she did not leave us high and dry with this short story.

3 bookmarks
Carol Langstroth, Manager and Reviewer
Mind Fog Reviews

The War of the Dead: Andy’s Story by Brian Kittrell

2011-07-13T10:37:00.000-07:00

The War of the Dead: Andy’s Story is the second in “The Survivor Chronicles” by Brian Kittrell. In this story we get Captain Andy Mackenzie’s view of the events leading up to warlord General Mumbatu sending missiles with the virus Revelation a/k/a Kemper-A. Andy’s point of view is from the beginning of when the crisis started, from the Army getting samples of the virus so they can find a cure to the actual missiles landing on US soil.

I was fortunate to be the one who reviewed the first in this series The Dying Times. As with the first novel, Mr. Kittrell does a large amount of research in this story. The characters are well formed and the background given helps the story come alive. You can actually feel the dislike the Captain has against General Sparey and how much he hated it when his country started gunning down a person in a helicopter who was trying to escape the virus that turns the dead into zombies.
It seems lately all I have been reviewing is zombie stories. However, I feel that out of all that I have reviewed, Mr. Kittrell’s’s stories out do them all. I can’t wait for the third book in the series called Prisoner and Survivor: William’s Story.

4 bookmarks
Carol Langstroth, Manager and Reviewer
Mind Fog Review

I Heard the Bells by Dawn Luedecke.

2011-07-13T10:34:00.000-07:00

I Heard the Bells is the second in a series by Dawn Luedecke. Abigail lives at the Lighthouse and Gavin is part of a lifesaving station where he saves lives to those lost in the “Graveyard of the Pacific”. Both love each other but can’t force themselves to tell each other. When Abigail’s brother is lost during his boating trip she and Gavin begin to realize that they love each other.

I found I Heard the Bells to be a delightful short story. It had a “Hallmark” feeling to it and was just a romance story not a sexual one for which I applaud Ms. Laedecke. She knows how to write an awesome short story without sacrificing the plot or character development. I can’t wait to read more from this talented author.

3.5 bookmarks
Carol Langstroth, Manager and Reviewer
Mind Fog Reviews

Isolated by D.M. Slate

2011-06-08T13:36:00.000-07:00

A honeymoon goes horribly wrong in the short story entitled “Isolated” by D.M. Slate. While on his honeymoon Anthony’s wife is kidnapped and he doesn’t remember how or what happened while they were honeymooning in Mexico. As the FBI gets information regarding the case Anthony struggles to remember the events that led up to Jazmine’s kidnapping. Will Anthony remember things in time to save Jazmine?
I found this story to be gripping and I think that this story could be made into a full lenth novel if not a novella. It has everything a reader could ask for including, but not limited to, mystery, suspense, and a little romance thrown in for good measure. Isolated by D. M. Slate should be on everyone’s reading list for the summer!!!

4.5 bookmarks
Carol Langstroth, Manager and Reviewer
Mind Fog Reviews

Day 94 by D.M. Slate

2011-06-08T13:33:00.000-07:00

In “Day 94” by D.M. Slate a meteor landed in the city of Greely and Joslin didn’t know it would change her life forever. The crash of the meteor caused an illness that turned people into zombies. How will Joslin and her family prevent nnot just getting the illness but surviving without power and food?
In my profession I read all different genres in short story and novel formats. This includes the genre of Sci-fi ones such as this which is about people turning into zombies. While I enjoyed the fact that this short story was a fast paced book, it was similar to another story that I reviewed a short time ago where an illness turned people into zombies. This makes me wonder how many ways a person can turn into a zombie. The only difference with this one is that a meteor caused this illness. In my eyes surely there are other ways that people can turn into zombies other than getting an illness?
However, for the Sci-fi fan who wants a quick read while on the beach drinking a cold beer, this would be the perfect story because like I said its fast paced and the plot keeps moving the entire time you’re reading it.

VENGEANCE BY J.E. TAYLOR

2011-05-26T13:07:00.000-07:00

J.E. Taylor’s book “Vengeance” is a gripping novel about Steve Williams…an undercover FBI agent who is working as a lawyer working for Charlie Wisnowski…a drug dealer that no one has been able to catch. Charlie tries to get Steve hooked on cocaine and have him indebted to him for helping him protect his wife from a serial rapist/killer. Does he succeed or does Steve’s wife and Steve’s desire to catch him win?
It was fast paced but J.E. Taylor took the time to make sure the characters came alive and the plot was well thought out. For instance, she made Steve struggle with his doing his job and protecting his family just like any man would do in his circumstance. “Vengeance” had me by the first chapter and I almost had the book read by one night. This is the perfect book to read on the beach or near a pool this summer. I was amazed at this novel and know that others will react the same way. You just can’t ignore the events that captivate you from the beginning. This author has produced a genuine thriller!

5 bookmarks
Carol Langstroth, Manager and Reviewer
Mind Fog Reviews

White Sleeper by Dr. David R. Fett and Stephen Langford

2011-05-18T18:02:00.000-07:00

The novel White Sleeper by Dr. David R. Fett and Stephen Langford is interesting idea on how a son of a supremacist tries to seek revenge on the government that killed his parents. Dr. Dave Richards is told to investigate a series of unexplained fatal diseases, he finds more than he thought. He and FBI agent Paula Mushari seek to find the answers before time runs out.
This novel was an interesting read for me because I love what “if” stories. The story that Dr. David R. Fett and Stephen Langford spin in White Sleeper is something that can actually happen in our world today. I love how the plot slowly develops and the characters are very in-depth, they show Dr. Dave Richards as a intelligent doctor with a past, desperately seeking to reclaim his life and job. I really enjoyed this book and sincerely hope this duo of writers write another one as they make a fantastic team. I suspect that the readers that love thrillers will want to read this novel and expect to see another! The duo succeeds in catching you quickly and keeps your attention to the details making it a wonderful read!

4 bookmarks
Carol Langstroth, Manager and Reviewer
Mind Fog Reviews

Belonging by Nancy Minnis Damato

2011-05-18T18:00:00.000-07:00

Belonging by Nancy Minnis Damato is the second book in the trilogy of the Taylor women. This story takes off where The Pawn left off where you follow Josie’s daughter Taylor. Taylor struggles with the lies that her mother told about her father and her need to find out who her father is. Meanwhile she uses what her mother taught her about business and makes a life for herself. As her journey continues she realizes why her mother lied to protect her.
Sometimes when you reading a trilogy you have to reread the book to figure how the 2nd book fits in. I am very happy that didn’t happen with the Belonging. It literally picked up where The Pawn left off. There was no new characters that were introduced while waiting for the main characters came back into the book. Taylor’s characters come across just as she was in book 1. I had read The Pawn for review and am happy to say that the sequel was better than original. It was like Ms. Damato came into her strive and knew where she wanted to take the characters. I hope that I get to read Separate World that ties book 1 and 2 together.

4 bookmark
Carol Langstroth, Manager, Reviewer
Mind Fog Reviews

MerryWeather Lodge: Ancient Revenge by Pauline Holyoak

2011-05-12T11:44:00.000-07:00

MerryWeather Lodge: Ancient Revenge by Pauline Holyoak is the most interesting book I have come across in a long time. Set in England, Emily is visiting her uncle and aunt when she finds that the house has spirits in it. No one believes her except for a teenage boy named Jonathan. Fast forward five years and Emily is forced to finally face the evils that surround MerryWeather Lodge. Will Jonathon help Emily face the evil spirits that haunt the lodge, or will he think it’s all in her head?
I found that MerryWeather Lodge: Ancient Revenge to be unique book. It showed an interesting take on the evil spirit world. The characters of Emily and Jonathan were very thought out and their personality came alive in the story more so than the other characters. Mrs. Holyoak has an intense imagination to create the evils spirits as well. I hope to see what else Mrs. Holyoak writes.

4.5 bookmarks
Carol Langstroth, Manager and Reviewer
Mind Fog Reviews

(RE)Making Love by Mary L. Tabor

2011-05-05T19:42:00.000-07:00

Mrs. Tabor’s “(Re)Making Love” is a memoir taken from her blog about her experiences while she was separated from her husband. She talks freely about getting back into dating but her heart belongs to her husband.

In theory the idea of taking a blog and turning it into a memoir is a fantastic idea, however, I felt that at times this book jumped around and I, a couple times, put it down because of that. I loved the fact that she was very open about her experiences and that she compared her life at times to romantic comedies and at times used quotes from many other authors to convey her thoughts and gives them credit which most authors don’t do in this day and age.

I think women who are going through similar changes in life will get something out of this. Maybe one of the reasons I didn’t get “it” was I was not in the situation that she was in.

2 bookmarks
Carol Langstroth, Manager
Mind Fog Reviews

Liron’s Melody by Brieanna Robertson

2011-05-05T19:40:00.000-07:00

Liron’s Melody by Brieanna Robertson is a timeless romance story in more than one way. Melody is grieving from the death of her parents in a car crash one year ago. Her friend, Nikki, finds an old scroll of music that she thinks will get Melody to play the piano again. As Melody begins to play it she sees a man there but she thinks it is her imagination but as she plays she gets sent to another dimension where she finds Liron…a muse. Will Melody get back to her own world? Will Liron help her with her grief over her parents’ deaths? What exactly does a muse do?

I have to say Ms. Brieanna Robertson likes giving romances a different twist with every book by her that I read. She has a vivid imagination and has a way with writing interesting characters that seem to come alive on paper. Liron’s character is a perfect example of a character that just jumps out of the page when you read about him being a muse and what a muse is/does. This would be the perfect book for people that are tired of the same old romance stories that have been done over and over again. Look out world, a new exciting writer just may take the lead over other romance writers.

3.5 bookmarks
Carol Langstroth, Manager
Mind Fog Reviews

New Self New World Recovering Our Senses in the Twenty-first Century by Philip Shepard

2011-05-05T19:37:00.000-07:00

Mr. Philip Shepherd's book, which I will abbreviate as “New Self New World”, is a refreshingly encompassing look at the human sense of self and how that self connects with the universe. His central thesis has been touted by a diverse pool of philosophical and religious ideas, but Shepherd is one of few individuals who have drawn upon all facets of human experience to help others get out of their heads and in touch with the universe. Far from the usual New Age work, this opus takes the tenants of everything from anthropology to quantum physics to trace humanity's journey as we went from gut-driven children of the universe to prisoners of analysis attempting to assert dominance over the universe's harmony. We, according to the author, over analyze everything in an effort to essentially create a series of reference labels instead of experiencing our world.

Shepherd takes a unique approach to releasing the reader from her habit of over scrutiny by introducing Being. It is from Being, feeling yourself and the world in the present, which should direct humanity and the brain which should do the work. As it stands, in Shepherd's mind, humanity has cut its head off to operate independently from Being centered in the gut, as in gut-feeling, making it operate as both decider and doer.

I feel it would spoil the effect should I elaborate any more, and Shepherd does so much more eloquently than I could ever hope. If there were ever an example of why humanity should be encompassing in both learning and feeling it is outlined exquisitely in this work.

5 Bookmarks
Sara Messina, Reviewer
Mind Fog Reviews

Sha'Daa: Last Call edited by Edward F. McKeown

2011-04-28T11:44:00.000-07:00

“Sha'Daa: Last Call” is a shared world collection of stories centering on the concept of a Salesman. He offers the protagonist of each story a trade that will allow them to survive and/or defeat the horror they will soon encounter. Each protagonist must rise to the challenge to prevent the unleashing of horrific C'thulian beings. I enjoyed the writing and the characters but a few of the characters choices seemed outside the range of their suggested intelligence for better or worse. I'm not sure about the military response to a noncombatant in “Deathstalk” by Bruce Durham. I like that the authors did not put a lot of effort into trying to make all the traded items match up but left the story open to many more trades but seeing them come up was a good way to remind the reader of prior trades and leaves them wondering who is going to need the item that I being traded for and what the current hero will need their “new” item for.

4 Bookmarks
Paul Cherry II, Reviewer
Mind Fog Reviews

29 Days...to Save Money and Financial Independence by Richard Fast

2011-04-28T11:42:00.000-07:00

This appears to be two books “29 Days” and “...to Saving Money and Financial Independence”. The first book is all about the process of habits and how to to change them with scattered detail. He quotes from several psychological models and theories as to why his method will work. He uses excessive quoting and anecdotes with very little citing of sources. The various models and theories are not explained well enough in the book but appear to be taken out of other books like some people quote scripture. He seems to assume that the reader understands the context. The other books in the series are all letter for letter the same book until page 109 when the “...to save money and achieve financial independence” part starts. When reading this book I had the feeling of one book grafted onto the second.

The second book was actually a lot better. It has a lot of common sense ways to save money and become more aware of spending. Quotes were again not cited. While the front matter gives you everything you would need to put together a way to put together a plan to form or break most habits the back actually does a god job with creating and suggesting a plan. I found the constant congratulations annoying but can see were some people might need the encouragement. The whole book felt like he was targeting a below average intellect reader using formating gimmicks and attempting quotations of intellectual giants to convince his audience he was right and that the program would work. In several places he made the suggestion that opportunities would open up if the reader had the money saved to invest but did not explain what constituted a good opportunity and how the reader could determine good from bad. He did mention the importance of not being guided by someone who was not an expert but did not go into how to find the right person to be guided by. This book would be good for someone with an above average job trying to save money but would be of less use to someone living minimum wage.

2 Bookmarks
Paul Cherry II, reviewer
Mind Fog Reviews

Military Brats: After Burn by Sherry D. Ficklin

2011-04-20T15:30:00.000-07:00

“In Military Brats: After Burn” by Sherry D. Ficklin we see Reece who is a military brat and whose father just got re-stationed at Cherry Point Air Station. Reece, just after a few days at school, has two boys interested in her. As she gets to know them there is a bomb scare at the Base and she doesn’t think the MP’s are taking it seriously enough so she starts her on investigation. After an explosion there her father was hurt. Now she must find the person who did this before more people are hurt. The only problem is all the evidence is pointing to Greg, one of the boys she likes. Is Greg the culprit or is someone else framing him?

Sherry D. Ficklin’s book is a wonderful young adult book that isn’t just about romance but also has a mystery that needs to be solved. It intrigued me to the point where I had to keep reading to find out who was causing the trouble on the Base. Reece’s character was well written and I could picture the characters and the scenes in my mind. I personally think this would be a good book for everyone to read, not just young adults. I look forward to reading the next installment of this series.

4 bookmarks
Carol A. Langstroth, Manager
Mind Fog Reviews

The Pawn by Nancy Minnis Damato

2011-04-20T15:28:00.000-07:00

“The Pawn” by Nancy Minnis Damato is a story about a young girl named Josefina who trusted Francois DucLafevre’s word that if she would give him an heir then she would be free to marry her true love Jacob. Three months into her being pregnant she realizes that Francois has no plans to honor his side of the agreement.
When she tells her father, he throws her out. She must now protect and provide for her child as her brother wants her dead and she doesn’t want Francois to know about the child’s whereabouts. Will she be able to avoid the powerful men that seek her?

Although Ms. Damato gives a lot of detail to her characters, I felt the story was very slow in the beginning and middle, but toward the end of the book it took off like a rocket. Since this is a part of a series I look forward to reading the next one that will hopefully tell us what happens when she tries to reconnect with her estranged daughter. Overall I thought this was a decent book to read as I love reading period romances.

3 bookmarks
Carol A. Langstroth, Manager
Mind Fog Reviews

My One True Love by Stephanie Taylor

2011-04-20T15:26:00.000-07:00

In “My One True Love” by Stephanie Taylor, we find Jason who can see and feel an avalanche heading for him. He climbs up a tree where he thinks he will be safe. As he is watching the avalanche he notices that there is a person who is stuck in the avalanche, so he goes to help the person and get them to safety. The problem is he saved his ex, Liz, who came into town to be married to another man. Can she marry another man knowing in her heart that she may still love Jason? And how does Jason feel about this turn of events? You will have to read to find out.

I thought this was a cute little book for those that need a little romance in their lives. It has chemistry, friction between the characters and a lesson in it. I love romances that show romance and not a lot of hot heavy sex scenes because these books are more about the characters than sex which, in my opinion, is the way a book should be written. I give this book 4 bookmarks and can’t wait to read Ms. Taylor’s next book.

4 bookmarks
Carol Langstroth, Manager
Mind Fog Reviews

Second Rate Groupies by Brieanna Robertson

2011-04-20T15:24:00.000-07:00

Second-Rate Groupies by Brieanna Robertson is a book about three women who decide to take a week off and hit the road to attend five concerts by their favorite band the Escape. During this crazy week Robyn does a lot of soul searching when she meets Ethan…a security guard for the shows. He shows Robyn things and teaches her that its time to start taking some chances in her life.

Will Heather, Dee Dee, and Robyn make all 5 shows and get to meet the band, and will she start to realize that life is just passing her by?

I have to say I thought this was a really cute romance. It was about two people getting to know one another and didn’t have a lot of heavy sex scenes found in other romances.

Dee Dee’s character was a hoot to read and I love the fact that it also taught people a lesson. (To find out what the lesson is…you have to read the book). I also like that it was mostly based on fact. I hope Mrs. Robertson does more writing and that a lot of women will read Second-Rate Groupies.

4 bookmarks
Carol A. Langstroth, Manager
Mind Fog Reviews

The Charlie Factor by Diana DeRicci

2011-04-20T15:21:00.000-07:00

In "The Charlie Factor" we have a M/M romance that involves two men who are fighting their attraction for one another. Charlie is a former fireman who was hurt when his own house was on fire. He suffered severe injuries not just to his body but to his mind. Enter one Gregory who just wanted to be Charlie’s friend as he is straight. But as time goes on Gregory isn’t sure about anything other than he feels attracted to Charlie? Will these two get over both of their issues?

I read the book and found it nice that they just started out being friends as that’s the way relationships are supposed to work. And the sex scenes were defiantly hot (you will need a hose to cool you down) and the difficultly in which Greg had to tell his parents was as honest as you can get. It has shown us almost the whole lifestyle of being gay, the good and the bad parts. I give Ms. DeRicci kudos for writing such honest book about a gay relationship.

3 bookmarks
Carol Langstroth, Manager
Mind Fog Reviews

29 Days…to Your Life Without Cigarettes by Richard Fast

2011-04-20T15:19:00.000-07:00

Richard Fast's “29 Days...to Your Life Without Cigarettes” is the best book in his 29 Days series. While still a bit overburdened with poor citations and anecdotes, Fast's personal experience with addiction adds to the effectiveness of the program. The program, overall, seems more effective in its structure and approach than many self-help books. Best of all, it doesn't require a reader to engage in any other programs or strategies which may add prohibitively to cost. I would definitely recommend this to anyone wishing to break free of their addiction.

4 Bookmarks
Sara Messina, Reviewer
Mind Fog Reviews

29 Days to...Becoming a Great Listener and Communicator by Richard Fast

2011-04-20T15:16:00.000-07:00

Richard Fast's “29 Days...to Becoming a Great Listener and Communicator” tries to show readers how to open their minds and listen, not hear, the people around them. Fast goes through the most basic mistakes people make, not paying attention, to some they do out of habit or poor sense of manners, like giving 'me too' stories. While his 29 day structure could help others bolster their abilities, it is unfortunately encumbered with a few too many anecdotes and studies with incomplete citations. I started to doubt the value of the data after the first few with vague references to sources. Furthermore, the main quiz in the book has an awkward format for filling it out.

I recommend this book for its main content, but I would recommend supplementing it with stronger works for a real test to those bad communication and listening habits.

3 Bookmarks
Sara Messina, reviewer
Mind Fog Reviews

29 Days to...Your Perfect Weight by Richard Fast

2011-04-20T15:14:00.000-07:00

Richard Fast has compiled a unique approach to weight management in “29 Days...to Your Perfect Weight”. Fast provides a psychological approach to breaking down the mental blocks which thwart would-be dieters. Instead of seeing a list of arduous tasks, Fast tries to help a dieter create a list of small, sustainable changes which lead to an overall healthy lifestyle. His process could work while trying to form any good habit, and his wife, Michele Bertolin, takes readers through more specific changes geared toward weight-loss.

Any one of Fast's “29 Days to...” books start with him explaining the psychology behind bad habits and why they are so hard to break. Unfortunately, you have to take most of this information on his word. While he does reference many modern authorities respected for their words on wisdom itself, or healthy eating, Fast does not properly cite any of his sources. With few exceptions, Fast's academic support relies on name dropping quotes, and when he does tie a work to the author, you'll find no information on where the bit of wisdom lies in the alluded pages. Moreover, the advice to speak to a medical professional comes late within the chapters; a scary thing seeing as how Fast never sets a guide for when to stop cutting calories.

Since his references are far too incomplete, I suppose it serves Fast well that his book also physically demonstrates his points. All the chapters are noticeably short and repetitive in their subjects. It gives a reader the feeling that they've divulged much more than they actually have. Moreover, readers spend more time on psychological reprogramming in the “29 days” than anything else, so the book ends in about your second week of initiating the small changes. Need more support? Just rinse and repeat the instructions in the last couple of weeks, or go to the online coach that will be there to help for a few months at the start of the rest of your life.

Overall, if you know someone who needs to get rid of a mental block to break a bad habit, “29 days” is a good start, but don't count on its directions to provide a comprehensive guide.

2 Bookmarks
Sara Messina, Reviewer
Mind Fog Reviews

Appalachian Justice by Melinda Clayton

2011-04-20T14:38:00.000-07:00

Appalachian Justice by Melinda Clayton tells the story of a Wilhelmina Platte a.k.a. Billy May from the time when her dad died in the mines to her death and everything in between. It shows the ugly side of people as well as the compassionate side. It also has the lesson that people will help if you let them in.

I have to confess I love the format that this story is written in. It’s told from Billy May’s memories as she is dying. Sifting through her memoires is like reading a diary. The characters are well rounded and they jump at you throughout the story. When she is remembering the mountain itself you can picture it in your mind very easily. There were times (especially toward the end) that I felt I was there.

Melinda Clayton did a wonderful job and I hope to read more of her work.

4.5 bookmarks
Carol Langstroth, Manager
Mind Fog Reviews

A Review of Jonathan’s Cross by M.L. Gardner

2011-04-20T12:17:00.000-07:00

Jonathan’s Cross by M.L. Gardner is a one of a kind historical fiction that one doesn’t see every day. Set to what I believe is 1929 when the big Wall Street crash happened. Jonathan is a broker who lost everything after the crash. His wife and his three friends’ families are forced to rent from an enemy of Jonathan’s. They take a job on the docks that they are not prepared for. Meanwhile Jonathan’s enemy, Victor, is doing anything to make Jonathan’s life a living hell. Will Jonathan and his friends survive their new life? Will they find a way out? And just what does Victor have up his sleeve?

I have been a huge fan of historical fiction since I was a teenager and Jonathan’s Cross has fed my addiction thankfully. It has action, and suspense, and you can feel the love that all three husbands have for their wives. Ms. Gardner brings all of her characters to life and brings wonderful details when she introduces more characters. I cannot wait to read the sequel to this book and I hope that that Ms. Gardner allows me the honor of reviewing the next one.

4.5 bookmarks
Carol Langstroth, Manager
Mind Fog Reviews

“The Dying Times: Nadene’s Story” by Mr. Brian Kittrell

2011-03-29T18:30:00.000-07:00

“The Dying Times: Nadene’s Story” by Mr. Brian Kittrell is everyone’s worst nightmare. A country has bombed us with biological bombs. Nadene and her mother, Pam, decided to try to make it to Texas before everyone gets ill from the bombs. Along the way they pick up people who are also trying to escape. There is one problem, the bombs don’t make people sick, they turn into zombies. Will Nadene and her friends make it to Texas or will they turn into zombies themselves.

I must say that I didn’t stop reading the book until the end because it was grabbing you from the first chapter. Nadene was written in such a way that you felt everything that she was feeling at the time. It showed what people might do in the event that such a thing were to happen to us. It also has shown me the amount of research that Mr. Kittrell did before writing this book. Since this is part of a series by the author, I can’t wait to read the rest as it is definitely worth the read.

4 bookmarks
Carol A. Langstroth, Manager
Mind Fog Reviews

“Quantum Angel Healing, Energy Therapy and Communication with Angels” by Eva-Maria Mora

2011-03-27T15:47:00.000-07:00

“Quantum Angel Healing, Energy Therapy and Communication with Angels” by Eva-Maria Mora is a book about how someone can train to be a Quantum Angel Healer. The author shows us that using the Quantum Angel Healing can help with numerous heath problems whether it be emotionally, physically, or psycologically. She explains everything step-by-step through the whole process. Ms. Mora even tells you which angels will help with what problems.

I believe in God and his angels so I was interested in what she had written about. I even did a few of her exercises that she talked about. I will say I felt better when I did the Angel Breath. But I am not sure how biblically correct this book is. I don’t see anywhere in the Bible where it gives us all the names of some of the angels so as a Christian I am not sure if I believe everything she talked about in her book. Also I don’t think you can become a “healer” and be able to help people just through a book. I think you should spend time with another “healer”. Like I said these are my beliefs and I may be wrong.

I will also say that Mrs. Mora did an excellent job with her bibliography. With every citation she said where she got it from and gave the credit to the author. Too many times in todays world authors forget to cite their work.

I did find this book an interesting read and I hope it will help people who are seeking this information as an answer.

3 bookmarks
Carol Langstroth, Manager
Mind Fog Reviews

“Wayward Soul” by Kim Bowman

2011-03-26T13:34:00.000-07:00

“Wayward Soul” by Kim Bowman is a novella about Zanna, a Spirit Guide who falls for Owen, her charge, who was supposed to die. Zanna interferes and her charge lived. Zanna was sentenced to no longer being a Spirit Guide and losing her immortality. She is thrust back to earth.
Guide Logan is upset because his charge died and because her charge lived changing the way time was supposed to be. Will Guide Logan kill Owen? Will Zanna get to him before it’s too late?
As a novella it’s a cute little story, however I would have liked to have seen more of a storyline. Like how and when Zanna became his guide? When did she make herself seen? I also think there could have been more dialogue in the Chamber of Astral Light. With a little work this could be a great full length novel that I hope that Ms. Bowman is considering as I think it has great potential.

3 bookmarks
Carol Langstroth, Manager

Zero Day by Mark Russinovich

2011-03-20T11:40:00.000-07:00

“Zero Day” by Mark Russinovich has the kind of plot able to make the skin crawl on the most stalwart of readers. The author has impressively managed to weave technical fact with breathtaking suspense. After following his characters through efforts to stop an all too plausible cyberterrorist attack, I feel as much more aware and wary. Russinovich aptly portrays the minds of both the heroic techs, and the fanatics with equal detail and empathy. He gives no pass to the brass ignoring protagonist pleas while maintaining that our security online is no one person's responsibility. Nor does he downplay the horrific effects of the attack as he also delves into the psychology of the terrorists acting out of perceived religious duty and fear of encroaching western culture. Any reader should be enthralled with “Zero Day,” and taking careful notes.

5 Bookmarks
Sara Messina, Reviewer
Mind Fog Reviews

Map of a Distorted Mind by Joseph R. McNulty

2011-03-15T16:52:00.000-07:00

In Map of a Distorted Mind by Joseph R. McNulty is a man expression of grief of a love lost. It talks about the day he fell in love with her and the day she died. I felt every emotion that this man felt in every poem in this book. Mr. McNulty showed the world exactly how he felt and at times did. I applaud him in being so open honest.
Every poem had a flow and consistency to it. At parts I thought it would make a great song because the way it flowed. I must admit my personal favorite is The Great Sardine Ride where he moves to be closer to the one he loves. I have done that and know firsthand how the pull of love will make you do anything. Those of us that love poetry that comes straight from the heart will love this book.

4.5 bookmarks

Carol A. Langstroth, Manager,
Mind Fog Reviews

Beside Myself by Ginger Simpson

2011-03-15T16:48:00.000-07:00

Beside Myself by Ginger Simpson is a cute little story about a woman named Cynthia Freitas meets cop Alex Carlyle sparks fly in more then one way. Together they try to catch a kidnapper/murderer. Will they find the perp that are killing the women that look like Cynthia?

At first I thought this was going to be a “normal” romance. But it was definitely out of the ordinary. I don’t want to give it away but believe me when I say sparks fly in more than one way. The way that Mrs. Simpson brings the characters together with a sense of humor is good. I also like that there was no sex scenes is wonderful as she made Cynthia a woman who had moral which you not find in most romances. Beside Myself would make a good read on a rainy day.

3.5 bookmarks

Carol A. Langstroth, Manager,
Mind Fog Reviews

Shortcomings by Ginger Simpson

2011-03-15T16:45:00.000-07:00

Shortcomings by Ginger Simpson is about teenager Cindy Johnson who has walks with a limp because her leg being 2 inches bigger than the other. Because of the teasing she gets from school, she has a low self-esteem.
Things start changing for her when Cory Neil ask her to tutor him in math. Cory notice her and not the limp. Now how can Cory prove to Cindy that he likes her.
Ms. Simpson, in her book Shortcoming, shows the result of someone being teased for something she has no control over. As someone that had been teased all her formative years, I too know how it feels and give Kudos to Ms. Simpson for writing about this sensitive subject.

5 bookmarks

Carol A. Langstroth, Manager,
Mind Fog Reviews

Too Much Ado by Tony Angelo

2011-03-11T10:45:00.000-08:00

Tony Angelo describes 'Too much Ado’ “as a poetry book that tackles some of the major prejudices…” and he is spot on about them introducing thoughts to the reader that provokes some thoughts about said “prejudices”. It is a very interested style of poetry and it can hold a reader’s attention. Each poem speaks to us, the readers, to take to heart the author’s ideas and thoughts about the subject to which it is written.

Thought compelling reads tend to mark the author’s stories within the poems. I prefer poetry that tells a story instead of a poem with rhythym and rhyme that can make no sense at all. We see the “story-lines” as life experiences and lessons learned in this reviewer/author’s opinion.

3 bookmarks
Anastasia Cassella-Young, Reviewer
Mind Fog Reviews

Over Night, Over Day, Over You by Tony Angelo

2011-03-11T10:43:00.000-08:00

Although grammatically rough, Tony Angelo's “Over Night, Over Day, Over You" involves yet another way that author Angelo uses to teach a life lesson and it teaches the young adult audience to stay away from prejudice and not become a prejudiced person. The storyline follows true to Angelo’s way of a moral learning read.

Young adults everywhere can read this story easily and can understand the morals to be learned. Angelo writes in this genre very well and continues to strive for a good moral learning story again and again.

3 bookmarks
Anastasia Cassella-Young, Reviewer
Mind Fog Reviews

Cordon Bleu by Tony Angelo Taliaferro

2011-03-05T12:38:00.000-08:00

Carl Donald Blue is the main character in “Cordon Bleu” and he learns a few life lessons along his trip in the tween stages of his life/schooling. The lessons come from his father and then his Aunt. The use of the father’s toolbox to show Carl some of his life lessons is very poetic and spot on!

This story, I believe, is aimed at youngsters and tweens. There are lessons to be learned within the realm of Carl’s life that other children do not have the benefit of.

The connection of badness and ill-will toward the people that live in the trailer park teaches Carl and his Aunt not to judge a book by its cover or, in this case, by where they live. Not all people are bad that live in a specific part of town that is infamous for trouble and drugs.

3 bookmarks
Anastasia Cassella-Young, Reviewer
Mind Fog Reviews

Call Me Duchess by Maggie Dove

2011-03-01T14:02:00.000-08:00

In Call Me Duchess by Maggie Dove, young Marguerite and her sisters are suddenly found destitute because of her father’s gambling habit. The three sisters embark on a journey to London at the height of the “London Season”. They have four months to find husbands or they will become governesses. Marguerite has her heart on becoming the Duchess of Wallingford. Will she marry for money or will some other man hold the key to her heart.
I have been reading romances since I was thirteen years old, and I have seen a lot of historical romances where the woman would be destitute if she didn’t marry a wealthy man. However, Ms. Dove writes one very different and it is like a fresh breeze. I give her kudos for writing such an enjoyable book.

3.5 bookmarks
Carol A. Langstroth, Manager
Mind Fog Reviews

The Travelers by M.T. Bargeman

2011-02-27T10:17:00.000-08:00

In The Travelers by M.T. Bargeman, Lady Robin of the Other Place needs the help of two humans. One is Twila a green witch whose mission is to wake the Great Phoenix to help with the fight of the Red Dragon. The second is her brother Joseph who is to lead the armies to fight the Red Dragon. She sends two of her faithful servants to retrieve them from our world. Eugene and Cynthia go to collect them and find it more difficult than they thought. Once they are all together they ride to King Hern to get their individual missions. Can they save both worlds?

I like the characters that M.T. Bargeman brings to The Travelers. They are in-depth and you can actually see them in your mind. The book itself in well written and any fantasy lover will love to lose hours of their life to live in the world that she invented. What I didn’t like was the way she left you hanging at the end to see if they won the war of the Red Dragon. I am hoping that she has plans for a sequel.

4 bookmarks

Carol A. Langstroth, Manager,
Mind Fog Reviews

MOTIVATE TO CREATE BY NATE HENDLY

2011-02-22T11:56:00.000-08:00

This book is a non-fiction directive to motivate writers. The author offers a number of good ideas for writing and tips for finding one’s creativity, but not so much ideas that motivate someone to actually write. For example, the suggestion that novices have the appropriate books is helpful but not motivational. He does have a section called “What This All Has To Do With Motivation,” which seems to pull together these ideas but still lacks the title designation of “motivation.”

I also noted a large number of noun / verb / noun agreement errors (“When an editor turns down a story pitch, it’s very tempting to solicit them for advice,”) and incorrect hyphenation for adjectives (Page 64, for example - Heather Cook, author, horse-trainer and much published freelance writer in Calgary, Alberta. This should read “Heather Cook, author, horse trainer and much-published freelance writer in Calgary, Alberta.) For someone who makes a living selling his work as a writer, I was surprised to see these kinds of errors when he proposes that novices take writing classes, using the analogy about driver’s education.

The structure of the chapters is organized and easy to read. The author uses good personal stories and anecdotes from others as well to make his points. However, his lengthiest section of the book is called “A Word About Working As A Writer,” which goes for six pages under various headings. Most of this is very anti-freelance – reasons not to write.

As an author, I was disappointed not to read something beyond Paul Lima’s theory of hating to be financially devastated if writing were to fail him.

2 bookmarks
Reviewed by: Valerie Conrad, BS, BSN
Mind Fog Reviews

Fragile Dreams by Viviane Brentanos

2011-02-19T14:13:00.000-08:00

Viviane Brentanos’s Fragile Dreams is a very romantic love story about Ellie who is recovering from cancer and realizes that there is more to life than what her marriage has become. She starts to fall for Michael who is half her age but mature beyond his years.

This story was very engaging and endearing from the start until the finish. I had to read it all in one day because I couldn’t put it down. This is not your typical woman who falls for a younger guy romance. Every woman idealizes about such a romance in their lives. I do recommend this book to those that do find a younger man’s love a bit more endearing in the long run!

4 bookmarks
Carol A. Langstroth, Manager
Mind Fog Reviews

Luminous Nights by Michele Hart

2011-02-19T14:10:00.000-08:00

Luminous Nights by Michele Hart is a about a Space Captain, Rachel Waters, who is forced to take a man with questionable motives and a past. The man “Jack” goes by many names but finds that maybe he still has a soul with Rachel. Can Rachel show this man that revenge isn’t always the right way?

While I enjoyed reading Ms. Hart’s book, I knew that I had read similar stories before. I also enjoyed the background she put into her characters, I felt like I knew them personally but felt that the book seemed to drag on at spots. Still a good overall read for the Sci-fi nut in your household.

3 bookmarks
Carol A. Langstroth, Manager

The Rewritten Word: How to Sculpt Literary Art No Matter What the Genre by Aggie Villanueva

2011-02-19T11:57:00.000-08:00

The Rewritten Word: How to Sculpt Literary Art No Matter What the Genre by Aggie Villanueva is a self-help guide geared to helping writers with their writing experience. She offers practical advice and resources to use while editing their own works of art as she has had some books published already and knows what a writer goes through in that editing process.
Aggie Villanueva really explains what writers should watch for in editing their own work. She uses her own experiences of what editors wanted and how she now edits her books. Writers should benefit from reading this guide.

3 bookmarks
Carol A. Langstroth, Manager
Mind Fog Reviews

First Christmas by Diana DeRicci

2011-02-10T12:30:00.000-08:00

Diana DeRicci’s First Christmas is a love story between two paranormal shape shifters names Lyndon, who is a Cougar, and Jason, who takes a wolf form.

I think this work of Mrs. DeRicci is a wonderful love story for the gay community. It is a gentle romance that shows a softer side of love. I do wish that there was more of a climax to the story. Over all a decent read on a cold winter day.

2.5 bookmarks

Draven’s Crossing: Mind Games by Diana DeRicci

2011-02-10T12:28:00.000-08:00

Draven’s Crossing: Mind Games by Diana DeRicci is an unusual book about Jackal who is a dreamweaver helping Torger solve the murders that are happening in Draven’s Crossing. During one of his dreams he finds Kristof a vampire who was assaulted. Will Jackal help Torger solve the murders? And what is happening between Jackal and Kristof?

Mrs. DeRicci really wrote a book that is completely different than her normal novels. I like the way she brought the world of the non-humans to live in harmony while some humans have difficultly with living with the non-humans. For those that are looking for a different M&M this would be for you.

River Rising by T.P. Jones

2011-02-10T12:25:00.000-08:00

River Rising by T.P. Jones is a third in a series and the premise is that the community of Jackson, Iowa needs to come together to fight the oncoming flood.

When I first starting reading this book I did not realize that this was part of a series and I had trouble with figuring out the characters in the book. Warning: this is not a stand-alone novel. Not knowing the background of what already transpired really made the book hard to understand and hard to read in some parts. I would recommend reading the first two in the series before reading this one.

3 bookmarks

Mind-Blown by Michele Hart

2011-02-10T12:23:00.000-08:00

Mind-Blown by Michele Hart is a sci-fi thriller/romance (if there is such a genre) that kept me on my toes. The novel did have a few places where it seemed to drag while rehashing some information but sometimes rehashing is necessary to keep the reader up-to-date on the storyline. This is a romance novel mixed with action and adventure and is not a-typical because of the engaging plot twists and corporate idealizations. You won’t be able to predict what is coming next. The story contains some of the latest technology and the author’s use of high-tech gadgets adds a new field of mind boggling thoughts to follow. Author Michele Hart develops her characters in a believable fashion.
You will fall in love with Holly Maddox's outgoing style. You can just imagine being a friend of Holly’s and her boss. Jon's and Holly’s relationship matures quickly keeping you intrigued. Jon tampers with Holly’s subliminal message folder. Micro-chipping is an idea that makes you wonder if that can be tampered with as well. Can it?
You can and will dread what is coming next because of the ethical dilemmas this novel involves your mind with to say the least. I think that Mind-Blown tells us of corporate and government control of the general population. You can’t believe what the micro-chipping topic brings to the table in any type of conversation. Fear grips me that micro-chipping technology has been available for a while and Mind-Blown takes you there and, I believe, makes you succumb to the thought that this can happen or might have already happened and I don’t like this idea.

The suspense is mind chilling. Without telling the end of the story and giving to much away I can say that I believe that a lot of the corporate happenings written here are true to our lives. You’ll continue reading this novel every second you have available. I kept it with me so that I could continue reading it anytime I had a minute or two.

Although this may not be an original thought...Mind-Blown blows your mind!

4 out of 5 bookmarks

Face the Rain by Jennifer DeNaughel

2011-01-29T10:08:00.001-08:00

Face the Rain by Jennifer DeNaughel is a romantic /thriller that reads extremely well from the get go. Jenna and her two children move to her hometown to start a new life after years of abuse by her ex-husband. Her son, Erik, hopes to meet his biological father, Ian, who is Jenna’s high school sweetheart. Will the love that Jenna and Ian had in high school be rekindled after all this time? Will the ex-husband come back to get his revenge?

I read many books and this one really tugged at the heart strings. It really has the right combination of romance/thriller to me. The characters have enough background and the dialogue between them was perfect. I could not put this book down at all. Ms. DeNaughel has written a winner and I hope that all women that love romance will read this one. They will not be disappointed at all.

5 bookmarks
Carol A. Langstroth, Manager
Mind Fog Reviews

Shifted Perceptions by Diana DeRicci

2011-01-29T10:05:00.000-08:00

Shifted Perceptions by Diana DeRicci is an interesting take on two men wanting and agreeing on being with the same woman. Gage and Rex are very much taken with Dali. The problem is that Gage and Rex are hiding a big secret about themselves and the world they live in.

A three way relationship is thus formed and we begin the sexual adventures of the trio. DeRicci stays true to form by thrusting a sexually explicit novel once again and does well at successfully and tastefully writing a novel in this genre that most anyone could read without being horribly offended by the general sexual nature of this novel.

I am not an expert on this type of adult fiction this being said I found the book to be going to fast at times and I would have liked to see more background on Gage and Rex in the beginning of the book.

3.5 bookmarks
Carol A. Langstroth, Manager
Mind Fog Reviews

In Ice Cream in the Snow by Diana Castilleja

2011-01-27T17:58:00.000-08:00

In Ice Cream in the Snow by Diana Castilleja we have a romantic/thriller that tells the story of a single mom and son team (Jessie and Jacob) who are just trying to make it day by day. Her ex-husband had a gambling addiction and Jessie wanted to provide a stable home life. However, before he died, he owed a lot of money to Brick Donnelly. When he goes searching for Authur he finds Jessie and her son.

I enjoyed reading this story very much so; it has romance, drama and a little mystery too. I found myself rooting for the family and wanting Brick and Jessie to stop fighting the attraction and become the couple they were meant to be.

3.5 bookmarks
Carol A. Langstroth
Manager of Mind Fog Reviews

The Ocean and the Hourglass by Dan O’Brien

2011-01-27T12:13:00.000-08:00

The Ocean and the Hourglass by Dan O’Brien was very reminiscent of “The Neverending Story” to me. Nicholas, the main character, is an outcast in his world. Bullied at school and barely acknowledged at home by his mother (and only parent), he escapes into his own world, from the story in his heart. It is adventurous and colorful, with the settings all very well detailed.
Although Nicholas doesn't believe he is the Prodigy that everyone else feels he is, he learns that standing up for what he really believes in makes him stronger in the end. He gains respect, both from within and from others.
Along with this book being very entertaining, I felt it also was philosophical. Nicholas matured greatly in his day away in his storybook adventure.
Teens and middle grade readers will be captured by this story. Those of us who are a little older, who love fantasy, will enjoy it, too!
4 Bookmarks
Kim Ann McCann, Reviewer
Mind Fog Reviews

FRIDAY NIGHT BY LIAM DRAKE

2011-01-22T07:39:00.000-08:00

Friday Night by Liam Drake is a romance for the gay community. Jake meets Raul at a support group. Raul is actively chasing Jake because the chemistry between them is hot. Jake is holding back as he is unsure of wanting to be in a relationship so soon.

I found Friday Night to be a completely engaging short romance. Mr. Drake writes so vividly that I could see the scenes in my head as I was reading. He has a great talent and I hope he continues to use those talents to create many more writings.

4.5 bookmarks

Carol A. Langstroth
Manager, Mind Fog Reviews

Curse of a Mind by Destiny Booze

2011-01-19T12:12:00.000-08:00

Private investigators believe their eyes. They generally don’t believe in ghosts. In Destiny Booze's novel, “The Curse of a Mind,” Christopher Chambers is a woman who runs a company called Deniro Investigations. Her righ hand man is Leon. He watches her back. Her team consists of Leon, her right hand man and Elliot is her computer wizard. There is a killer in this novel that is after a couple of Deniro Investigations clients. The killer is picking off Chris’ team one by one.
With all of her training Chris can’t be sure to stop this man from taking Aidan, the man who is in her heart.
Destiny once again fulfills her readers minds’ with a well written novel. Destiny is an author you should be ready to follow into the big leagues. However young Destiny’s mind is a frightfully delightful one that continues to bring out one great novel after another.
You won’t put this down until you see “whodunit”.
4 bookmarks
Anastasia Cassella-Young
Mind Fog Reviews

Wild Blackberrries by Lorrie Unites-Stuiff

2011-01-19T12:02:00.000-08:00

Wild Blackberrries by Lorrie Unites-Stuiff is a short story about a novel writer who is doing background on one of her books. Unbeknownst to her the soon to be ex-husband has a plan on getting all of her estate. Will her new found friend find her before it is too late?

I thought that Lorrie Unites-Stuiff has the beginning of a great book. I realize that this is supposed to be a short story but I felt that it was too rushed. There needed to be more interaction between Wade and Morgan in the beginning and I would have liked to have a more of an ending. I should like to see Lorrie go even further and write this into a full-length novel. There is more than enough of Lorrie’s imagination to make it a delightful story and one that you would like to read from the beginning to the end.

3 bookmarks
Carol Langstroth
Manager of Mind Fog Reviews

DELANY'S CATCH BY DIANA DERICCI

2011-01-19T11:57:00.000-08:00

Diana DeRicci’s Delany’s Catch is a great gay romance that involves Jake, a bookstore owner, who falls for Delany, who runs a bodyguard business.

The heat from this book starts on page one and continues through the end. She provides great background on both characters and you can tell that she put her all of her skills and know-how in this book.

Gay romance sometimes does not meet a reader’s attention immensely but I can tell you that those of you who thrive on gay romances should definitely read this one.

DeRicci performs tremendously in the written pages of this novel and stands true to form when I say that she has written another hit! I favor DeRicci’s writings because she puts enough spark and romance within her written pages that will keep you reading from beginning to end such as I do with her works.

4 bookmarks
Carol Langstroth
Manager of Mind Fog Reviews

AND THE ANGELS SANG BY LORINA STEPHENS

2011-01-19T11:54:00.001-08:00

Lorina Stephens' “And the Angels Sang” holds more surprises than it does punches. Don't expect this author's examination of the human condition to melt your heart, or take its place among the now increasingly cliché gritty take on the common human experience. Through her series of stand alone stories, the author examines not only the basics of how we define ourselves, but also interesting takes on the results if one changes the measuring stick. Be prepared to see your own being through many new sets of eyes as her characters tear down even the most basic characteristics of what it means to love, heal, play the hero, or succumb to villainy.

4 Bookmarks
Sara Messina, reviewer

Al Capone Chicago's King of Crime Nate Hendley

2011-01-15T10:36:00.000-08:00

In “Al Capone Chicago’s King of Crime” we follow one of the most famous mobsters, Al Capone, from his humble beginnings to the mobster that he became. I, of course, had heard of Al Capone as a child, but never knew what drove him to become the man he was.

I think that those that enjoy reading or watching mobster movies would love to read this biography. Mr. Hendley goes in-depth and uses other resources that tell the story of Al Capone. He searched for the truth of the man instead of the legend that Al Capone became.

3.5 bookmarks
Carol A Langstroth, Manager of Mind Fog Reviews

Who Got Liz Gardner by Elizabeth Allen, a second review

2011-01-15T10:32:00.000-08:00

Who Got Liz Gardner” has a really good prologue which drew me in, and I wanted to read more to find out what happens in the subsequent chapters. At the start of the book it is not made clear who the narrator is and I found the story very challenging. One of my favourite parts is when the narrator, Liz and her friend Chris, remove the collection(s) of Baguette, the bag lady. The descriptions of the scene(s) that follow are powerful and amazing.

Liz the narrator in the novel is also going through a lot of situations within the novel. I was uncomfortable with the end of the novel and did like the graphic descriptions of some scenes within the novel.

There is also another character who I was unsure whether or not she worked within the novel and that was Taylor who is described as "gorgeous, funny, strong, athletic, healthy and ready to live". I did not believe in her as a character as the narrator speaks about an Angelic Task List.

I have read Bridget Jones’ Diary and loved every bit of it, I think that this novel is trying to be a Bridget Jones’ Diary and not succeeding for me, I would give this book 3 out of 5 bookmarks as it was not my favourite piece of reading but it was well executed.

3.5 bookmarks
Ruth Clements, Reviewer

ZOMBIESTOP PARADE BY RICHARD BUZZELL

2010-12-17T10:17:00.000-08:00

“ZombieStop Parade” by Richard Buzzell is a book about two people that try to use a forum to shed light on just how corrupt the corporate world along with the banks can be. It goes into details on how work in the corporate world needs to change. A lot of the things written in this book are true and have already happened in the business world.

I found this book to be completely engaging and most interesting. I found myself not being able to put this book down. Richard Buzzell explains his thoughts on the mess that the corporate world has made with some of the CEO’s need for greed. I think the people of our country need to read this book and help force the changes that need to be made.

4 bookmarks

BAD GIRL GONE MOM BY K.C. LAUER

2010-12-17T10:15:00.000-08:00

“Bad Girl Gone Mom” is the true life story of K. C. Lauer. She openly talks about her alcohol abuse in her teen years and how her sexual relationships failed when she felt she wasn’t being loved enough.

In a lot of ways I could relate with the things that K. C. Lauer wrote. I loved how she opened herself to the world in this way. I imagine there are lots of girls and women that will relate to the instances that the author put forth in this story which have made her who she is today.

I felt that this book was extremely well written and being written from the heart made it all very believable and sympathetic to women every where with these issues.

5 bookmarks

RICH AND LOST IN PROSPERIA A Tropical Tale of Market Economics” by Doramas Jorge-Calderon

2010-12-02T15:14:00.000-08:00

I don't read many books which seem to fit between the rankings. “Rich and Lost in Prosperia A Tropical Tale of Market Economics” by Doramas Jorge-Calderon happens to sit right between what I would consider a good book and a great read. While I give him credit for genuinely taking a creative and interesting approach to his subject, I feel that the work reads as though the bulk of the creative writing came as an after thought. The choice of character names gave me unwanted pause several times. Still, as an alternative to text books or lectures, Prosperia holds its own. Despite its shortcomings as a work of fiction, I am very glad to have had the chance to read it.
3.5 OF 5
SARA MESSINA

WHO GOT LIZ GARDNER by Elizabeth Allen

2010-11-21T14:25:00.001-08:00

WHO GOT LIZ GARDNER by Elizabeth Allen is a first person narrative about the actions of an aspiring actress in New York City who then follows an assumed upgrade to Los Angeles as real life actors follow the same route in reality. Liz’s goals are simple…to become an actor and find a good man. Easy enough? Not really.

The sexual content is done in amongst wisecracks making it not too raunchy for the average reader in my opinion.

I laughed, cried and was not aghast about any of the truths that Liz portrayed in her actions. I think that in today’s society this story is in direct correlation with life in general in the “acting field” and/or “romance department”. I was quickly drawn into the drama of Liz’s life and her roles as a human being.

Elizabeth Allen takes the time to detail Liz’s lifestyle and it easily compares to real life dramas. Dysfunctional family life in this novel is a meager comparison to life itself.

I guess I am on the fence about this novel. I did not find it “great” but at the same time the differences and nuances of life in general do follow today’s societal behaviors and not of the “traditional” well being of a herione in any novel with romance, sex and odd ball heretics of today’s romances.

3.5 bookmarks
Anastasia Cassella-Young, Reviewer

The “Adventures of Rusty & Ginger Fox” by Tim Ostermeyer

2010-11-21T14:23:00.000-08:00

The “Adventures of Rusty & Ginger Fox” by Tim Ostermeyer is a wonderful story of Rusty and Ginger with some interesting facts about each animal they come into contact with. I love the fact that Mr. Ostermeyer wrote the story around the pictures that he took so the children can see what the animals look like in their environment.

My hope is that children will have this book in their library. It would be a shame if it was not added there.

4 Bookmarks
Carol Langstroth, Manager

Bobo’s Daughter by Bonnie Barnnett

2010-11-21T14:20:00.000-08:00

Bobo’s Daughter by Bonnie Barnnett is Bonnie’s story of the painful journey that she took while searching for the why’s that kept her father out of her life. During this painful time she finds a strength in herself that she didn’t know she had.

I enjoyed reading Bobo’s Daughter. I give credit to Ms. Barnett for opening herself up to share this with the world.

3 bookmarks
Carol Langstroth, Manager

Murder is a Family Affair by Heather Haven

2010-11-21T14:15:00.000-08:00

Murder is a Family Affair by Heather Haven is a well written book that grabs your attention from the first page to the last and leaves you wanting more of the characters. Heather Haven, the author, does an excellent job of making you feel as though you are there with the characters and see what they see. This book is well worth taking the time to read!

5 bookmarks
Mariea Schultz, Reviewer

TALES FROM THE GUNDERLAND BY HANK QUENSE

2010-10-20T16:13:00.000-07:00

Tales from The Gunderland is one of those books that could easily become a cult phenomenon. I really enjoyed the humor, which was sort of a cross between Hitchiker’s Guide to the Galaxy and Monty Python. Each story was unique and self-contained, but still contributed to the “Gunderland Universe” as a whole. My favorite is still Quinse’s retake on Romeo and Juliet. But seriously, who wouldn’t love a book with dwarfs, pirates, and aliens?

Hank Quense has created a collection I’d be proud to not only have on my shelf, but would definitely recommend to my friends. Anyone who enjoys off-beat humor should pick up this book. I’m looking forward to seeing more of his work. Five bookmarks, for sure! ~Reviewed by Sherry Ficklin for Mind Fog Reviews!

Coming Home A Practical and Compassionate Guide to Caring for a Dying Loved One By Deborah Duda

2010-10-14T14:28:00.000-07:00

In Deborah Duda’s book Coming Home A Practical and Compassionate Guide to Caring for a Dying Loved One we have a straight forward approach for caring for a loved one that is dying. She gives instructions on how to change a sheet while the loved one is still in bed to finding out what their last wishes are.

I actually thought at first that this was going to be a morbid book. However, I found it very well written and I learned a lot of ways to look into for both myself and my family. This book shouldn’t be just for helping the dying, parts of it should be read by everyone because it has information about Wills, Advanced Directives, and DNRs. All of us should look into getting “our affairs in order” prior to our demise which helps make things easier on the family for when the time comes.

Thoughtful, precise and informative!

4 bookmarks
Carol Langstroth, Manager & Reviewer

LOVE'S LEARNING CURVES BY DIANA DERICCI

2010-10-08T11:13:00.000-07:00

Diana DeRicci’s Love’s Learning Curves is a story where Dario is about to become head of the family and the family has different ideas of who should be his mate. He falls for Sheridan at first sight. Will they both understand the other’s secret?”

I enjoyed the book, however, at times I thought it could have used more background into Sheridan’s family and how she is Rush’s second. I know why because I read the others in the series but others may not have had the chance or known it was part of a series.

3.5 bookmarks
Carol Langstroth, Manager

THE HOUSE BY ANJUELLE FLOYD

2010-09-28T19:03:00.001-07:00

The House by Anjuelle Floyd is an exceptional book that allows you to share in Anna’s journey as she finds closer relationships with her soon to be ex- husband Edward who is dying with Cancer and her children. She goes back into the house that they had in their marriage to take care of him and realizes that Edward is not the same man as the one she was married to.
I found this book to be extremely well written and I was very pleased with how the characters grew as the book went on. I have not read a book that was this enjoyable in a while. Kudos to Ms. Floyd.
I give Ms. Floyd 5 out of 5 bookmarks for her well accomplished feat of writing a good fiction story. I look forward to reading more of her works.

THE FUN OF DYING BY ROBERTA GRIMES

2010-09-15T13:07:00.000-07:00

The Fun of Dying is by Roberta Grimes is her account of what happens when we die. She said that there are many levels of which you go through to learn what you should have learned while on earth. She says that the ultimate place is what she calls “Summer Land” where everything is perfect.

I am always interested in what people think what will happen when we die. I think she is right on some things and possibly wrong on others. However, I found it to be a very enlightening book.

Sculpting the Heart:While Conversing with the Masters by Joyce White

2010-08-29T08:42:00.000-07:00

Sculpting the Heart’s: While Conversing with the Masters by Joyce White is a good book that shows us how paintings and Art can be poetry together. At times I felt like I could feel everything she felt and at times I felt lost trying to decipher what she was saying. My favorite one is called Crystalline Clear.

I think the people that love in-depth poetry would love to read such a personal book.

Sculpting the Heart: Surviving Depression with Art Therapy by Joyce White

2010-08-29T08:30:00.000-07:00

Sculpting the Heart: Surviving Depression with Art Therapy by Joyce White is a book on how art therapy can heal people who have bouts of depression.

Ms. White explains how Art Therapy helps her to heal. She introduces us to the Art Therapy for the purposes of explaining what it can and will do for us. She does insert a few of her poems in there as well as the other art forms she uses to show us how it helps her.

I oftentimes feel that poetry is a good way to express depressional issues as I use it as well. A comparison between the poetry and the Art Therapy techniques helps the reader to understand the depression and what the Art Therapy can do.

Ms. White has accomplished the explanation of Art Therapy with moods and has done a fair job in explaining the events that Art Therapy will connect with. I feel that people with depression will benefit from reading this book.

3 bookmarks

Carol Langstroth, Manager

Mind Fog Reviews

The Guns of Mars by Martin T. Ingram

2010-07-14T12:41:00.000-07:00

In The Guns of Mars by Martin T. Ingram, we have a story of one Morgan

Asher who follows his wife to colonize Mars. While there he learns that not everything is what it seems and realizes that he has to fight for his rights and his country's.

I had to admit that I just thought this was going to be a “normal” science fiction. I found it to be a deep book that should remind us all that we should not follow what the “government” wants when it takes away from our rights as American Citizens .

3.5 bookmarks

Carol Langstroth, Manager

Mind Fog Review

Humorous Incidents: Short Stories and Essays by Aaron Majewsk

2010-07-14T12:37:00.000-07:00

Humorous Incidents: Short Stories and Essays by Aaron Majewski is a mediocre book that Mr. Majewski shows a bits and pieces of his life or what he wished his life was. At times some of the stories were cute, I was left feeling that it wasn't as funny as much as Mr. Majewski thought they would be. I think some of the stories were the kind you had to be there for it to be funny.

3 bookmarks
Carol Langstroth, Manager
Mind Fog Reviews

Green River Lullaby by Lori Titus

2010-07-14T12:32:00.000-07:00

Green River Lullaby by Lori Titus is a collection of very vividly written short stories. Ms. Titus captures the essence of horror and brings the reader into the story with vivid description only to be let down with what felt like unfinished endings. Ms. Titus’ characters were believable and very likable. Although this book contains several short stories, it is a very fast read. This reviewer can see great potential in Ms. Titus’ career as a writer.

3 bookmarks

Cynthia Hepner

Mind Fog Reviewser

Tales of Addiction and Inspiration for Recovery by Dr. Barbara Sinor

2010-07-14T11:17:00.000-07:00

In Tales of Addiction and Inspiration for Recovery ,Dr. Barbara Sinor writes of other stories, including her and her son’s. It is a well written and posed book that has you crying at other people’s courage in sharing their stories. It even helped me with my own mother's illness of alcoholism.

I am pleased at the detail this book has and I hope that it gets out to those of you who need it. It will give you courage to go through your own processes.

4 bookmarks

Carol Langstroth, Manager

Mind Fog Reviews

Addiction, What’s Really Going On? By Deborah McCloskey, CADE & Barbara Sinor, PhD

2010-07-14T11:12:00.000-07:00

Barbara Sinor and Deborah McCloskey are two therapists that work with addiction issues. Upon McCloskey’s death Barbara Sinor takes Deborah’s journal and expounds on it in this book of stories of addicts and their journeys through heroin addiction and their progress. Addiction, What’s Really Going On? holds back nothing to let you see the progress of a caseload of patients. This is a fantastic book that lets you into the stories of said addicts. Ms. Sinor is a therapist who happened to be friends with Ms. McCloskey . Ms. Sinor and Ms. McCloskey has given us a glimpse a very detailed journey of addicts and their addictions.

I think this book needs to be read by anyone who has a family member on Heroin as it will give a small insight into the world and see that there is hope for some of them. If for some reason you have a friend or family member with these issues THEN THIS IS THE ONE BOOK THAT IS A MUST READ for you. This is a very revealing story which will detail, to you, a journey through addiction and what happens in the progress made in Addiction, What’s Really Going On? This is the one!

4 bookmarks

Carol Langstroth, Manager
Mind Fog Reviews

On Gods Homor by D.C. Juris

2010-06-24T06:58:00.000-07:00

In “On God's Honor” by D.C. Juris we have an angel being sent to earth to protect a human named Nathan Scott. The angel is doing everything he can to just do his job and not fall for Nathan. In regards to this story being a GLBT genre I felt that the story was to rushed and could have been expanded regarding the characters and the background. This author has talent if he just practiced it more in his writing he would accomplish a much better rating than just this mediocre one.

2.5 bookmarks

The Chill of Evil by M.A. Harkert

2010-06-23T14:29:00.000-07:00

“The Chill of Evil” by M.A. Harkert is the story of a woman and a haunted house which is very evil because of the spectres that live there.

I found the character of Sara to be great at times and at other times to be dull. The ending is different than I thought it would be, but I thought the author could have done more with the characters at the climax of the story.

This story is plain in its overall presentation.

Overall all it is a decent read for the light horror readers out there who enjoy books without all the gore and blood.

3 bookmarks

Carol Langstroth, Manager

Mind Fog Reviews

The Guns of Mars by Martin T. Ingham

2010-06-23T14:06:00.000-07:00

In The Guns of Mars by Martin T. Ingham we have a man named Morgan Asher who is a part of a colonization on the planet Mars. He soon finds out not everything is as it seems. He realizes that he might have to fight for what he believes in.

There were times that I thought this story was moving so slowly without any indication that something better was coming along.

At first look I thought this was just a regular science fiction book but, as I dug deeper into the book I realized that the underlying message is about how easy it is to go with the flow and forget to fight for our rights that we have in America. I feel that people would get a great lesson from this novel about the ebb and flow of people and their opinions and actions.

3.5 bookmarks

Carol Langstroth, Manager

Mind Fog Reviews

Dreamweek by Viviane Brentanos

2010-05-25T10:37:00.000-07:00

Dreamweek by Viviane Brentanos is a wonderful romance about Izabella Stevens who works at Dreams which is a private island for those who need to get away from their world.

David Wells is an actor who is desperate to get away. He finds Izzy interesting and finds ways to get her to be with him. I really thought that this book was fantastic. I was so engrossed in this book that I forgot to do my other work for the day!!

Any woman that loves a good romance will love this book!

5 bookmarks
Carol Langstroth, Manager
Mind Fog Reviews

Herb Trader

2010-05-25T10:33:00.000-07:00

In Herb Trader by A.R.Torsone we have a background look inside the marijuana trade. We see how one man was involved in a big treachery scheme in the world that he lived in.

I found the writing of this book to be intense and I could not put the book down. A. R Torsone gives so much background that you feel like you are there and a part of it all. Anyone that would like to see what sometimes happens in the world of marijuana distribution will find this book interesting and informative

A memoir with a magnitude of honesty is a story about A.R. Torsone’s life as such. If there was such a rating as 5+ bookmarks I would have enjoyed rating this novel as such.

5 bookmarks

Carol Langstroth, Manager

Mind Fog Reviews

Quest for Atlantis

2010-05-25T10:29:00.000-07:00

In The Quest for Atlantis, edited by Jessy Marie Roberts and Alvia J Roberts and authored by various authors, is a collection of ten short stories that make you leave this world only to enter another. I found that some backgrounds were deep in their meanings and quite in-depth. At times some of characters seemed very real to me. I could not just pick one story as a favorite as they were all equally good. I can think of a few teenagers that would read this book. The collaboration between authors is quite remarkable in and of itself because getting various authors together in one project like this takes great patience and time and the tome shows that many authors took that time and effort in creating The Quest for Atlantis. They all worked as one quite well I might add! If you love to get deeply involved in a world while reading a novel or short stories then these short stories combined will keep you entertained for quite some time.

3.5 bookmarks
Carol Langstroth, Manager
Mind Fog Reviews

Suffer The Children by Sara Townsend

2010-05-25T10:23:00.000-07:00

In “Suffer the Children” by Sara Jane Townsend we have a chilling story of three young adults looking for answers as to why some young adults have gone missing. As they start finding out the answers the more dangerous it becomes for Simon, Carrie and Leanne.

I don’t normally read horror as it’s not my favorite genre, however this novel kept my interest and was not too gory for my taste. It is a well written book that has various degrees of suspense with a little mystery thrown into the mix. I would recommend this book for the Stephen King fans!

4 bookmarks

Carrol Langstroth, Manager

Mind Fog Reviews

HaveYou Seen My Childhood?

2010-04-30T08:09:00.000-07:00

Have You Seen My Childhood by Alessandrina Lerner is written with some of the strongest poetry I have read in a while. The emotions that she has shared from her child abuse had me on the verge of tears at times. Her poem “What it is to be Loved” moved me the most.

Although I felt that the poetry lost the standard rhythm that a critique would, at times, find it very difficult to plot the tempo, I enjoyed the book very much so.

3.5 bookmarks

Carol Langstroth, Manager

Mind Fog Reviews

A Father's Anguish

2010-04-30T08:02:00.000-07:00

In A Father's Anguish by R. W. Doyen we have a father's story on how he handles the emotions that he had to face with his daughter’s rape.

I found this to be thrilling from about the middle of the story until the end. R. W. Doyen wrote this novel based on true events as he recalls them pertaining to his daughter’s rape. The emotions that Doyen puts to paper about the father's feelings and thoughts are very well written and are taken from his personal knowledge of what a parent feels during these kinds of trials and tribulations. I would recommend this story to anyone that wants to read a powerful thriller as a novel based on a true story.

4 bookmarks

Carol Langstroth, Manager
Mind Fog Reviews

Entering the Age of Elegance by Chloe Jon Paul

2010-03-08T07:54:00.000-08:00

In Entering the Age of Elegance by Chloe Jon Paul you learn the ways a woman can gracefully enter the senior part of her life. Chloe Jon Paul looks at every aspect of a woman’s life and writes a very informative book. That being said it looks like the book was hurried to get out and some of the links to the referred websites did not work. I hope that Ms. Jon Paul can make these corrections because the book could be very helpful to a women “Entering the Age of Elegance”.

3 bookmarks

Carol Langstroth, Manager

Mind Fog Reviews

A Trust Earned by Diana Castilleja

2010-03-06T14:19:00.000-08:00

“A Trust Earned” by Diana Castilleja is dedicated to every romantic thought that one could have. Bram is an overworked doctor who is yearning for something different in his life.

Enter one Selene Aiza who has an offer for Bram that he cannot refuse. Selene is a doctor/administer who has huge secrets that she hopes that she can share with Bram. Can Bram handle the truth that comes with Selene.

I loved the story from the first page. The chemistry between Selene and Bram is explosive from the very first page. This gifted writer will differently be another Danielle Steele if she continues to write with as much passion as Steele does.

Temptations, secrets and romance abound in this novel. Diana Castilleja has a romantic side to her that every woman would love to have and to enjoin with their own relationships!

5 bookmarks

Carol Langstroth, Manager/Reviewer

Mind Fog Reviews

Sardinian Silver by A. Colin Wright

2010-03-06T12:59:00.000-08:00

Sardinian Silver is a tale of love, life, and self-discovery. It explores the moral and social dilemmas that plague our society today. A. Colin Wright addresses these issues in an interesting way through the main character and his journey through Sardinia.

Although the story line is a bit slow at first, the pace is definitely picked up in the second half of the book. Wright's uncanny ability to “transport” his readers into the action by vividly describing the Sardinian countryside also make this book an interesting read. I would recommend this book to anyone who is into a good romance novel.

*** 3½ Stars

Raymond Teodo

Mind Fog Reviews

The Thorn at his Side by Diana Flori

2010-03-06T12:55:00.000-08:00

In Diana Flori’s “The Thorn at his Side” you will find romance at its finest. The sexual scenes are done very tastefully. The romantic side of Ms. Flori shows you a vivid imagination as to what romance and love should be. She stays within the historical era as she writes this historical romance. I found this to be titalating and action packed all the way to the end. The epilogue tells of a future that was prepared for during the romantic episodes unfolded within these pages.

Unforetold writing excellence is in this novel and I would highly recommend it to those who enjoy a good, steamy love scene and romance on the high seas. I would love to read another novel like this from Ms. Flori and I believe you would too!

4 Bookmarks

Anastasia Cassella-Young

Mind Fog Reviews

The Essence of Love by Alessandrina Lerner

2010-03-06T12:46:00.000-08:00

“The Essence of Love” by Alessandrina Lerner is a book of poetry about the many different types of love she feels. The writer writes in such depth that it pulls you into her world and her thoughts on love.

Some of the poems blew my mind away as they are the same thoughts that I have for someone and the one poem, “Love ain’t…Love is” tells the truth about what love truly is. I would highly recommend this book for anyone that loves poetry especially poetry about love.

4 bookmarks

Carol Langstroth, Manager

Mind Fog Review

Nacreous Verse by Sonja Smolec

2010-03-06T12:44:00.000-08:00

“Nacreous Verse” by Sonja Smolec is a lovely tidbit of poetry. Upon looking up the word “nacreous” it is discovered that it has a meaning entailed of “pearls of wisdom”. This poetry book does have pearls of wisdom throughout it. A critique of it would be hard to do in the sense of trying to find rythym and beat. The author sometimes starts out with a great beat and then rushes wholeheartedly into verse that does not ryhme but has great meaning. Starting with A B A B then following up with A C D E A F G H, etc. Love and romance are the main theme of this book.

Sonja Smolec uses some very large, intellectual words at times and uses footnotes to define them. I feel that a footnote is not appropriate in the theme of a poetry book but suggest perhaps that she should have used a glossary.

All in all it is a read that you will find to be in depth, loaded with emotions and finally, it is thought provoking enough to make you read between the lines as such as poetry always does. I would recommend this read to those that don’t expect a lot of prose and rhythm and beat as set forth by the standards of poetry.

3.5 bookmarks

Anastasia Cassella-Young

Mind Fog Reviews

Living the Dream by Tim Baker

2010-03-05T13:32:00.000-08:00

In Tim Baker’s Living the Dream, Kurt thinks that a woman named Vicky is the cause of his entire problem so he hatches this plot to kidnap her and have her husband, Jimmy, pay the ransom. Except after he gets to Florida he finds his intended victim is away and that her husband wouldn’t pay the ransom as he wants to divorce her. Jimmy’s mistress, Leslie, wants a piece of Kurt’s action. Kurt never knew a simple kidnapping would be so much work.

This reviewer liked the ending of the book however the beginning and the middle were a little dry for me. I loved the scenes with Kurt and Leslie where she would tell Kurt he didn’t know what he was doing. Over all it was a good book to read.

***3.5 Stars

Carol Langstroth, Manager

Mind Fog Reviews

The Bite of the Serpent” by Sandra Crum Akers

2010-03-05T13:30:00.000-08:00

“The Bite of the Serpent” by Sandra Crum Akers is a fun read. I went in thinking the Mound itself would be the mystery, so the murder totally threw me for a loop. Paranormal intrigue and a killer on the loose make for a fast paced novel. There were a few places where the story started to lag in the middle, but not for long. By the time we reach the end we are reeling with anticipation. This book kept me guessing and kept me interested. There were twists and turns I never saw coming and just when I thought I’d figured out who dunnit, BAM! Totally surprised.

I had a hard time with some of the POV, particularly with the first person thoughts in an otherwise 3^rd person story, and I had some unanswered questions about the Serpent Mound itself that I don’t feel got resolved. From the title I expected it to be more of a paranormal novel. I also would have liked to get to know Anne better, I never really felt like I understood her motivations. Overall, I would recommend this book to my friends and I look forward to reading the next one if the story continues, as it feels like it should. Did I smell a budding forbidden romance there at the end?

Happy reading!

4 Bookmarks

Sherry Ficklin

Mind Fog Reviews

Frenzy by Carole Johnstone

2010-03-05T12:56:00.001-08:00

FrenzyCarole Johnstone

Frenzy by Carole Johnstone kept me on the edge from beginning to end. The constant rush of adrenaline injected into my brain while I read was an unusual experience for me. I found myself side by side with these characters going through the same terror and feeling the same uncertainty for my survival. If you love horror, and suspense then this is an absolute must for your collection.

***** 5 Stars
Author/Reviewer Marilyn Thompson
Mind Fog Reviews

The Chosen” by C. A. Milson

2010-03-05T12:54:00.000-08:00

If you “believe” or whether you “enjoy” reading about demons, gathering of souls and the like “The Chosen” by C. A. Milson covers them in this tale of horror. Almost all the vices of man are included such as sex, smoking, drinking, murder and mayhem and the like. It even includes the “proverbial” religious connotations in whether the characters believe in “God” and his protection or demons and their villainous ways. There is so much going on in this novel that you must read it carefully and with an open mind.

The energy of the author is reflected very well in this tome. One could say that you would be on the edge of your seat waiting for the next melee to happen. Powers of energy from the author and the characters will keep you reading until the end.

*** 3 Stars

Anastasia Cassella-Young, Reviewer

Mind Fog Reviews

The Accidental Spy" by J R Lindermuth

2010-03-05T12:51:00.001-08:00

"The Accidental Spy" by J R Lindermuth was the most astounding historical fiction I have ever read. Every line was a hook that kept me enthralled. The story takes place during the American Revolution and follows the exploits of Daniel McCracken a con man who doesn't care one way or another who wins the war. It is an amazing story of transformation as Daniel grows beyond his own wants and desires and learns to think of the needs of others. J R Lindermuth has written a very believable tale. It is as if he were actually there writing the events as they occurred. This is the best story I have read in a very long time. One that I would recommend as required High School reading.

5 Bookmarks

Marilyn Thompson

Mind Fog Reviews