Book Review: Depth of Deceit by Betty Briggs

The Depth of Deceit by veteran author Betty Briggs is a dynamic story about Stephanie Saunders, a young attorney assigned to take on the indigent cases that come through courtroom and defend them. Stephanie has worked hard and long to garnish respect, but her beauty queen good looks, makes it hard for people to take her seriously as a legal representative.

She is assigned by the judge to handle the case of Josh Durrant, accused of assault. A man with long blond hair, a thick beard, a barbed wire tattoo across his bicep, and amazing green eyes, who seems to be following her all over town. She isn't sure whether to be annoyed with him or worried.

Not that it matters that much to her when she has Todd Saxton for her boyfriend looking out for her. He is loving , charming, handsome and sweet to her. But when devastating secrets are discovered, Stephanie's whole life tumbles out of control.

The only place she finds true comfort is at the stables with her horses. She finds a kindred soul in the battered and abused mare, Riskie Business whose gentle soul and sweet disposition is a balm to Stephanie's shattered soul.

There are difficult decisions that will affect the rest of Stephanie's life that must be made, and in turn Stephanie must learn how to save not only herself in the final showdown, but one who relies on her the most. There she must learn to trust those who can't be trusted and discover courage and strength she never knew she possessed. And find a way to make the ultimate decisions of what is right and what is not.

I was drawn instantly into the story and couldn't put it down once I got started. There were so many mysteries and questions I wanted to know as layer upon layer was uncovered to reveal the final answers at the end of the book. Depth of Deceit made me laugh out loud, it made me cry big tears, and it made me wonder what would happen next. I kept turning page after page to discover secret after secret. I felt as if I was right beside Stephanie Saunders the entire time. Her anxiety pulsed out of the pages, her love and compassion and even when snarky frustration rose with in her were so real and tangible. I knew how she felt about those she loved and those she was annoyed with. Her suspicious nature about everything that appeared to be truth leapt off the pages. It surprised me how deep those emotions became as they welling up inside of me.

Betty Briggs really knows how to pull the reader into the world of words she creates as it runs like a movie inside the readers head. I was held captive until the very last words and found myself surprised with the unexpected plot twists and turns through out the book.

The way the horses played such an important part in the dynamics of the story made me wish I was at the stabes right along with Stephanie. I loved how Betty wove the legal dynamics of being an up and rising attorney into the plot, and how Stephanie's struggles were so real to life as I wondered who, if anyone was trustworthy.

I completely loved reading Depth of Deceit. I loved the rich characters portrayed, from the rude secretary, to the little old man who lived in the mountains. I felt each character was well developed and helped propel the story along with their insite and lively conversation. I felt a deep connection with many of the characters, and was surprised by the culminating events in the end.

I completely enjoyed my journey into the Depth of Deceit. Get your copy of Depth of Deceit by Betty Briggs, here, you won't be disappointed. Take the time to stop by Betty's web site and learn more about her and her other books go to http://www.bettybriggs.com/ there you will find additional information on horses and other short stories as well.

Disclaimer: While I do at times receive copies of the books I review, my opinions are and will always remain my own.

Always reaching for the next level

Making goals to increase your strength and health is an important part of any exercise plan. It's always helpful to see the progress you have made and then create new levels to aim for. When you shoot for the stars, you will find that you are climbing higher and higher and eventually you will reach them.

I remember when I started exercising in earnest again after taking a long lazy hiatus. It made me cry when I realized how much I actually let myself go. I could hardly keep up in classes, a five pound weight might as well have been 100 and I was winded within the first five minutes of class starting. I struggled to keep up and I was humiliated. I had taught these classes three in a row at times , kicking every one's butt, without a problem, and now this one class showed me very how far I had fallen and kicked my butt to the curb. It was sobering. And I cried huge tears. How could I have let this happen??? Life, of course, and just not finding me important enough to take care of.

That was 2 and half years and 45 pounds ago. I decided then to face reality. I wasn't going to get any healthier doing nothing and pretending this wasn't happening. I faced the hard facts and chose a different way. I was worth it. I deserved to be healthy and strong. I was determined to get back to where I knew I once was . . . strong and conditioned and in shape.

To get there I made goals. Easy ones I could obtain so that I could see success. Yes, I even used a sticker chart with smiley faces . . . why not? It worked for my kids, why wouldn't it work for me too? I gave myself a smiley every day I worked out. It was great incentive to see what I had accomplished, especially when it took more energy than I would like to admit just to get me out the door and not turn around and give up. I would increase what I could do a little at a time until what was astronomically out of reach and harder than Hades to accomplish became a piece of cake, and then I would adjust my goals and increase what I required of myself and continue forward.

In this way, I am stronger than I've been in years. I don't let myself say . . . "I don't think I will work out today." I say instead . . . "We are going out the door and you are doing what needs to be done. Period!" And everyday I am finding I can do more than I imagined.

For instance I never imagined I could run and sustain a ten minute mile. But I can now . . . the weight I literally throw around now (really, I mean throw, if you ever saw me in the gym you'd know what I mean) is now 35 pounds and higher. And I'm not done yet. I plan to keep improving and growing and setting goals I can reach and obtain and be successful.

In the pool I am faster and stronger than ever, and I love how my body pushes itself through the water and how it works to keep in control of the water weights, to where I control them not the other way around, using muscle to keep firmly planted and not let buoyancy take over.

I tell you these things so you can make your own fitness plan and watch as you adjust it from week to week with new goals, how strong you will become. To show you that if I can do it, anyone can do it! I have seen it in a lot of people who take my classes already. They are beating me at my own game and becoming faster than me. It is great to see. Keep working hard at mastering your body and building strength. I believe in you and I know you can do it! Tell me your goals and let me hear your successes. They are inspiring!

Bill Phillips asks "Being healthy is a decision we have to renew each and every day. Today in your thoughts and actions are you choosing health?" He also said, "A person's state of health can often be predicted by which he or she takes two at at time- pills or stairs." Remember nine out of ten of the greatest accomplishments were done on a deadline. What is the deadline for your next great accomplishment?

Book Review : Journey of Honor By Jaclyn M. Hawkes

In Jacyln M Hawkes debut novel Journey of Honor the author takes you on a journey filled with adventure and danger. The story is about Giselle, a young LDS (Latter-day Saint) immigrant and Trace a young doctor, turned teamster leader, who discover they are traveling in the same wagon train west. Leaving from St Joseph Missouri in 1848, they find themselves in a situation which requires a marriage in name only for the sake of protection.

The marriage takes an interesting twist when attraction turns to longing and then to love. These two main characters are thrust into many perilous and at many times, life-threatening situations. The secret that Giselle carries with her, becomes a situation that endangers her life, regardless of the consequences she is determined to pull her weight no matter the cost, especially when she needs to help those that fall ill. Unbeknownst to Trace he leaves her to care for the sick which allows him to put both distance between their growing attraction and frees him to lead the wagon train and check on every one's progress.

This arrangement seems to be working well, until Giselle no longer is able to continue with her ministrations, forcing a change of events that forever alters Trace and Giselle's relationship. While Trace still holds honor to his promise to keep his marriage to Giselle in name only; it becomes more and more difficult as he fights his growing attraction and feelings for her. Especially when he holds her close during the cold winter nights. Just as Giselle also attempts to stop the burgeoning feelings of love that are taking root inside her as she allows Trace to comfort her as she faces the emotions of horrendous events that happened before they met.

These feelings of growing love become more focused for Trace and Giselle with the humorous interaction of an Indian Warrior who finds he wants Giselle for his own, and isn't willing to follow the rules of decorum.

Their journey forces them to analyze certain truths they hold dear about what they intrinsically believe and causes them to make decisions that will effect them forever as they reach The Salt Lake Valley. Trace and Giselle must determine if they will or will not get their marriage annulled as the need for protection nears its end.

There are many sweet side stories that brought tenderness and tears to my heart as I read Journey of Honor. I found myself growing attached the secondary characters as much as the primary ones. I thought Trace's adopted brother Mose was sweet and gentle and kind. He had such goodness in him, I couldn't help but love him. I also found Giselle's grandparents to be supporting and compassionate. I loved how her grandfather supported Giselle in her decisions when her parents would not, and were there to lean on during horrific events. I found the quiet strength of these characters to be a great addition to the story as faith and understanding of gospel truths played an important part in helping the main characters discover what truly was most important.

I felt sensitive issues relating to gospel truths were handled with care and were presented in such a way as to be informative and enlightening, in a story where the characters themselves discover what they mean to them, as they learn from one another and grow.

I really enjoyed reading Journey of Honor and found it to be a quick read. I felt at times that I wanted a bit more, wanted it to last just a bit longer in certain parts of the story. I thought that the love between Trace and Giselle was sweet and filled with just the right amount of longing and tension to keep the reader wondering what would happen next in their relationship. There were a number of funny scenes that had me laughing and tender moments that had me crying.

This is a book that has no swearing and would be considered a clean romance. I would recommend this book for ages 12 and over and if you enjoy a light hearted historical romance with out all the heavy history but filled with unexpected adventurous twists and turns, this is the book for you.

If you would like to get your own copy, click HERE. You can visit Jaclyn at http://www.jaclynmhawkes.com/ I know you will enjoy the story as much as I did.

Disclaimer: Although at times I do receive copies of books to review, my opinions are and will always remain my own.

Book Review: Star Scout Rising First Trail by Gary Darby

In Gary Darby's debut book, Star Scout Rising First Trail the reader is taken on a fast paced, intense journey through intergalactic space. This Sci-Fi mystery is filled with political intrigue and uncertainty as Del Baldura and his team of Junior StarScouts prepare to take their No Notice exam that will determine if the years of intense training allows them entry into the Senior StarScouts, who patrol space for new life and planets waiting to be discovered.

As team leader, Del Baldura is in the midst of an important mission that will help him and his four fellow team members advance to the next phase of their training in a field ops exercise. During the mission, one of their team members is kidnapped and the efforts of the rest of the team to rescue her lead them to unexpected adventures and dangers that kept me on the edge of my seat as I read furiously to find out what happened next. As the twists and turns and surprises kept coming, I found myself pulled deeply into the plot of the story, and felt my stomach churning with anxiety with many of the predicaments the team members and other key characters found themselves facing.

In addition to the excitement happening with Del's team, some with great control and power higher up in the Senior Star Scouts organization go against all they stand for and plot revenge against Del as they discover things about his past. They want to be sure he pays for incidents that occurred that were out of his control when he was younger. Power hungry and crazed with desire for complete and ultimate control , Pellar, a senior officer in the StarScouts with high ranking command has his fist wrapped tightly around the very lucrative Kolomite trade and rules the galaxy under concealment, with his corrupt addicting need to be the only one who commands how and where and what happens with any Kolomite found on any planet. He has infiltrated the StarScouts missions by utilizing their systems and encryption codes to secretively push his own agenda of power, wealth and revenge at the cost of all who might be in his way. His evil designs ooze into the pages of Star Scout Rising First Trail as he manipulates those around him.

Gary Darby has the ability to make worlds come alive and battles spark to life within the pages of Star Scout Rising First Trail. I found myself feeling the acid from the lake eat through the uniform and the under brush of a planets unfamiliar foliage brush against me. The adrenaline pumped through my body as I was chased and hunted down by unknown dangerous creatures. I could feel the peace of space as stars twinkled in the distance and the whine of the engines as space ships struggled to be free of capture. Making the experience of reading Star Scout Rising First Trail one I won't soon forget.

I am excited to know that Star Scout Rising First Trail is the first of a trilogy and look forward to knowing what happens next with key players in the story. There are some intense cliff hangers I want to know the answers to. I was left wanting the story to continue and wanting to be a part of the exciting daring missions and rescues that Del would be caught up in. I anticipate the chance to be drawn into the next books as part of the team while they explore new terrains and discover things that will surely shock and excite them.

Check out Gary's website at http://www.starscoutrising.blogspot.com/ to learn more fascinating things about Gary and his book. It was refreshing to read a book with so much action and excitment that had no swearing and was clean. I would recommend this book for all ages. To get your own copy click here, so you can be a part of the fast paced ride through space with Del and his team and be part of the mystery and intrigue they constantly face.

Disclaimer : While I sometimes receive a copy of the book I am reviewing, it does not in anyway influence my opinions. They are and will remain my own.

Book Review : The Peasant Queen by Cheri Chesley

I thoroughly enjoyed reading Cheri Chelsey's debut book The Peasant Queen, where a simple farm girl discovers that even the humblest of peasants has the power to change the world.

Cheri's writing style is fast and fun, and you feel like your eyes just fly down the page, and that the pages turn themselves.

The story is about a young woman named Krystal who enjoys being in charge of her choices until suddenly she isn't anymore. Her brother makes a choice for her that makes her want to run away. In the act of doing so, she is kidnapped and magically transported to another kingdom far from her home. There a tyrannical king wants to take Krystal's hand in marriage, and the throne which belongs to another. Krystal's deep sense of independence rises up to thwart King Gregory at every turn. But still he yearns for her, even when her heart is snared by Jareth, the rightful heir to the throne. But King Gregory still will not relent. In a world where magic binds and the unexpected happens, Krystal is forced to choose between her heart and her desire to protect an entire kingdom. It is wonderful to see the twists and turns that make you want to keep reading until the very last page.

Cheri's characters were fun, interesting, rich with life and I was left wanting to know them even better. King Gregory was one of my favorite characters in the story. It's not often I am so drawn to the antagonist. It's funny but I found that I was half in love with him half way through, even though he is the villain. There is something about him that draws the reader to almost root for him, even though he is evil. He was handsome, lovable and deeply in love with Krystal . Cheri portrays that passion very well, you feel his yearning. I wanted him to be understood, and maybe desire to change and be better, you see so much humanity inside his evil streaks.

Krystal, the heroine, she was strong, feisty and courageous. She knew herself, and knew what she wanted and was never afraid to go after it. Even when it meant she would have to sacrifice things that she held dear. I loved that she never gave in and always found a way to keep her ability to choose, no matter the circumstances she found herself in. I admired her ability to stay true to her principles.

I found that Jareth, the prince, was lovable, but I wished I could get to know him better, but still I loved his determination to fight against the odds. He was determined to save both Krystal and the kingdom, and made sure that he cared for those in his charge.

The struggle for the throne in the story was filled with intrigue and strategy, made stronger by the power of choice no matter the circumstances surrounding it. It is a reminder that we are always free to choose how we will act in the face of both our trials and our triumphs. I felt that Cheri portrayed that with all her characters as they made vital choices and grew as a result of the decisions they made. Cheri did a beautiful job of showing us how we can be resilient no matter the situation.

The Peasant Queen is the first of a trilogy and I look forward with eager anticipation the next parts of the story. To get a chance to delve into the world of Fayterra once more, and to escape into a world where fantasy and dreams collide. There are some questions left unanswered that I hope will be answered. I wanted to know more about the magic and how it worked. To know how it affects people who do not possess it. I look forward to learning more about why it was so vital for Krystal to become queen, and I am excited to see more use of magic and what role it plays in the next books.

I would recommend The Peasant Queen to anyone who wants a fun fantasy story, with a bit of romance, some sword play and magical abilities set in medieval times. This story is a clean romance and is appropriate for all ages. I highly recommend you visit Cheri's web site here. There are a lot of fun things to see there! You can receive your own copy of The Peasant Queen by clicking here. Don't miss this wonderful story, you won't be disappointed. I wasn't!

Disclaimer: Although I sometimes receive copies of books to be reviewed it in no way influences my opinions, they are and always will remain my own!

My Blog awards Yay!!!

My very first Blogging award was given to me on Sept 5 2010, by Rachelle Workman but since I just figured out how to post it I wanted to add it in to today's post. It is so cute! I love it!




I just wanted to say thanks to Rachelle Workman for giving me this coolStylish blogger award. It is the second one she has so wonderfully given me! She is so great for my blogging esteem! She is always there to help me navagate my way around big things like Blog fests and how to add new gagets, and all the technical mumbo jumbo of the blogging world. And another super huge thanks to Elizabeth Mueller for awarding me the Stylish blogger award a couple a days ago! It is very exciting, it is my third award. Thanks Elizabeth for guiding me through the basics. =0)

YOU BOTH ROCK!!! Go check out their amazing blogs! I know you won't be disappointed when you see what cool things they have on them!

1. Thank and link back to the person who nominated you, only do not re-nominate them.
2. Share 7 things about yourself
3. Pass along this nomination to 10 recently discovered stylish and cool bloggers
4. Contact them and tell them about their nomination

Seven things about me:
1~ I have always had a secret dream of being a movie star.
2~ I love singing at the top of my lungs with the music at full base so I can feel it bumping through my body.
3~ I really want to take a cruise and go to Hawaii!
4~ I would love to have a lucky streak and win the lottery!
5~ I love to dance, and choreograph too!
6~ I am working on writing a paranormal y/a novel, and a suspense romance too.
7~ I love teaching, and public speaking and performing(dancing, singing, etc)...wierd huh? Even though I don't get a lot of opportunity to do it, But I like to be in front of a crowd and being the center of attention.

Now to award 10 very awewsome people the Stylish blogger award!
Gail Zuniga
Brent Westcott
LeAnne Dudley
Tamara Hiener
Rebecca Blevins
Rachelle J Christensen
Carolyn Frank
Ali Cross
Danyelle Ferguson
Heather Justesen

Romance Blogfest, Love At First Sight...Or Not So Much

Yay! I am so excited, this is my very first blogfest. What better way to celebrate Valentine's Day than with a romantic scene. The theme is Love at First Sight . . . Or Not So Much hosted by Jordan McCollum, be sure to check out the other bloggers participating by clicking HERE I am going to take it from part of a scene from my WIP when Kieryn and Aric just as bit after they meet for the first time. It's in Aric's point of view. I hope you like it!

~*~*~*~

Aric could no longer resist her and took a step forward, closer to Kieryn, holding her trusting gaze with his. The warmth of her body radiated off her as he drew nearer to her. He relished it, allowing it to warm him. It had been a very long time since he last felt anything close to it.

There wasn't a need for his heightened powers of persuasion. As he lowered his head slowly keeping her eyes locked with his, fascinated by their ever shifting change of colors, he came closer still. Gently, carefully, he pressed his lips to hers, and closed his eyes.

An electric shock coursed through him. Never in his entire existence as a mortal or immortal had he ever experienced anything like it. It filled him with life and light renewing him. The taste of her lips was more than he could ever have imagined. Sweeter, more delicious than he had anticipated. The kiss was just as enticing as the blood racing through her veins. He was instantly addicted. He wanted more. He deepened the kiss, pressing his lips more firmly on hers and held her body close to his. Her warmth radiated out to him, penetrating his clothes, alleviating the emptiness inside him as nothing else had in over a century of imprisonment, or even before that. He knew the minute she responded, melting into his arms. The echo of her surrender flooded his thoughts through the link they now shared.

He was confused by the immediate and violent possessive reaction surging through him with regard to the girl in his arms. No one but me will ever have her! He emphatically determined. It was an unbreakable vow that with an unexpected eagerness he covenanted with himself. It was imperative that he keep her safeguarded at all costs. He assigned himself as her sentinel and would always watch over her, protect her. In order to ensure her safety he would move heaven and earth if he needed to.

The sweet ambrosia that was her kiss swirled in endless delight inside him, every sense filled to overload with its pure enticement. It was hard to believe how she threatened to overwhelm him with her essence, to be his complete undoing. Nothing, no experience in his life had prepared him for her.

Yes I am a Ninja!!

I am a Ninja! What does that mean? That I can do cool funky martial arts? You know it! Kick boxing and bowing to a sensai in a dojo? ABSOLUTELY! Chasing hidden warriors in the light of the moon, waiting with eyes dilated and ears open for any slight movement, relying on my inner instinct to know when I am about to be attacked. YOU BETTER BELIEVE IT! I do those things, I can take some one down in a fight if I have to, I have worked hard to teach others to kick butt and teach them to yell from their gut a resounding HIYA! Soothing, energy filled, and tension relief all in one. But that is not what I mean when I say I am a ninja.

I am a ninja in that I am now a part of Feb NiNoWriMo. I am joining in with other ninjas, writing ninjas to accomplish a goal. The goal to keep writing in my book, to get it finally finished, so I can work on edits. So the way I plan to use my mighty stealth and slay some major word counts and move steadily ever closer to finishing my manuscript, is to write everyday, to work toward a min of 1000 word a day word count. And if I am a mighty warrior with words and get more done and write 5000 words in a day, I will bow to my sensai (Ali Cross) and bow to my dojo at alicross.blogspot.com and say thank you my honorable sensai for teaching me the ways of words and writing with a warrior spirit. Now I must be off to slay the word dragons and bring honor to those who have taught me to show my fighting prowess with a determination to not fail and bow to them as I leave to honor my promise and kick some major writing butt!

Cool contest!

Check out a cool contest that you can win some fun stuff for and even get a chance to go to a double book launch party if you are able. Click on www.jenniferkclark.blogspot.com There is some very fun things going on there, you don't want to miss out on it! She has the rules for participation lined up and it's easy to do! Good luck!

Unbelievable

There is a lot that I am thankful for. But on the top of the list is my health. After battling a terrible sinus infection that took me down for the count for over a month, with the last remaining vestiges of it hanging on, I have had little energy to keep up on my blog. But I am determined to have at least one entry for the month of January. And so to show how thankful I am to have my health returning, I wanted to share a story I wrote in November. I hope you have as much fun reading it as I had writing it. When you are done, I would love to hear what you think of it. Enjoy!

Unbelievable By Debbie Davis

“Hey babe!” A sultry voice rang from the entrance of the kitchen.
“Oh no, please let it not be him,” Jennifer mumbled. Her back stiffened as dread poured through her. She closed her eyes, and braced her arms on the counter. I’ll just pretend he’s not here.
“I’ve missed you,” the warmth of his breath on her ear sent shivers down her body, his strong arms snaked with confidence around her waist, pulling her up against his strong chest. “Say you missed me too.” Unwanted feelings stirred to life within her.
“Go away” Jennifer grumbled. So much for pretending he’s not here. Anger boiled just beneath the surface ready to explode, but she kept it in check. She would stay in control, even if it killed her.
“Aw, honey, don’t be like that. It’s Thanksgiving. You know – a time for expressing gratitude.” Each word a torment reminding her she’d loved him fiercely . . . once.
“Who invited you anyway?” She refused to turn around. It would be her undoing. Besides she was busy plotting the murder of the person who let him in the door in the first place.
“It was your mom; she has a soft spot for me you know.” She felt him smile against her cheek.
“Figures.”
Murdering Mom wasn’t an option, but she’d definitely get an earful later.
She took a deep steadying breath. That was a mistake. The smell of his citrus and sandalwood aftershave made her knees and her resolve weaken.
“What do you want Matt?” She asked under her breath, her emotions going haywire.
“What I’ve always wanted . . . you!” He turned her to face him, but she kept her eyes closed. She’d be in big trouble if she let herself look into his gorgeous baby blues. She wouldn’t do it.
“Jeni, it’s been three months since you refused to see me, but I know you love me.” He pulled her into a hug. “Say you’ll forgive me and we can start over. It’s been pure torture and I need you in my life. Don’t shut me out anymore sweetheart, please.”
All the hurt and anger that iced over her heart began melting away at the surety of his words and she opened her eyes. She was lost. Lost in the raw love she saw in his eyes, lost in the hope that sparked to life in them.
“But you were leaving me, going to New York, and I saw you with that other girl. You were kissing her.” Tears sprang to her eyes. No, she had to stop them, he couldn’t see them.
“It wasn’t what you thought. I would’ve explained it but you would never let me. So I talked to your mom and she told me to come.” He lowered his forehead to hers.
“Well, explain then.” Hurt pulsing through her again.
“I was saying good-bye to my cousin and the kiss was on the cheek. I came back from New York to get you.”
“Oh.” She felt relief wash through her. What a dummy I was.
“I’m in love with you Jeni.” He said. “You’re all I ever think about. It’s affecting my job . . . my thoughts . . . everything.”
“I can’t believe . . .” She started. She saw the truth of it all as emotion played havoc with his features. “Umm . . .” she hesitated. “Well . . .” She was giving in. Her heart let go of the strangle hold she encased it in that day three months ago.
“Please, Jeni,” Matt’s handsome face moved closer to hers. “I need you, I can’t live without you . . . I love you!” His deep laughter vibrated through her. “See, I’m begging.”
Freed, her heart surged with love as her stomach dropped. “I love you too.” She said in a whisper.
“You do?” Matt asked as surprise, then relief washed across his face. “Really?”
“Really,” she gave in.
Smiling, he lowered his head and gave her a kiss that sent electricity zinging through her. It was heaven, and she surrendered to him.
“Ah, hem . . .” Her mom coughed from the doorway as they jumped apart. “The turkey is ready, we are waiting for you.” Giving them a knowing smile she turned and left.
Matt’s boyish grin filled her heart with warmth as he grabbed her hand. “Let’s go and celebrate Thanksgiving, Babe.” He said drawing her close to him and out the kitchen to join the festivities.

Interview With Author Michael Knudsen

I am very honored to have the opportunity to interview Michael Knudsen today. He new book The Rogue Shop, just released and it is pretty exciting. Thanks for coming to my blog and letting me ask you some questions, and for taking the time to answer them. It is super cool for me because you are my first interview, and I can't wait to find out the answers to my questions. So let's get started!

Me: How long have you known you wanted to be a writer?

Michael :When I was four months old, I pulled dad's bic pen out of his shirt pocket when he was burping me. It was love at first sight. Later I progressed to picture books on kindergarten-lined pater and sending lengthy stories to my aunt who was on her mission. In third grade I was put in the "resource" class because my teacher thought my imagination was "hyperactive". I lived out entire Apollo missions and Godzilla movies in my ind, with friends or without. After seeing "Jaws" I couldn't take a bath for two weeks. I was the kind of kid parents worried about.

Me: It sounds to me like you had the makings of a great author even when you were little, and I think imagination in kids is an important part of what makes us creative. What lead you to write the story you did?

Michael: The Rogue Shop came out of a time and a place --Downtown Salt Lake City, in the early 1990'. I worked at a tuxedo shop there, and we had a ton of old mannequins and stuff from the 50's and 60's in the cellar. Those things evoked a sense of time and place that just cried out for a good story. Later, my viewpoint character, Chris, became more of a real person and he started giving me a hard time about not finishing his story. I didn't finish a draft until 2008, and by then I was driven to see it published. Chris was mollified, and hasn't actively bothered me since.

Me: I totally get that, I think sometimes our characters take on a life of their own, they have whole conversations and if you don't act quickly then you lose what they are saying. I love that Chris kept at you until you wrote his story. I was wondering what super hero you would be if you could choose and why?

Michael: I'm going to go with Aqua man because I think swimming fast underwater and having gills is cooler than flying through the air.

Me: I think this is a great choice! So how long did it take you to go through the whole process of writing, editing, and getting The Rogue Shop published?

Michael: 20 years total. I wrote the first chapter for the first time in 1989 while still working at the tuxedo shop. I thought about it off and on over the decades, and had five chapters at some point in the mid-90's. Only in 208 did I get serious. on January 1, 2010, I submitted the manuscript to several publishers, and it was accepted May 14. Editing was not bad at all. While finishing my final draft, I put countless hours into scouring the MS for every little typo and bad adjective that it was fairly clean when I submitted. I spent about 6 hours going over my editor's suggestions and that's about it.

I look back on it and call myself an idiot for procrastinating so much and wasting so much time without developing my talent. But I won't do that. The truth is, I just didn't have the maturity and life experience before NOW to write this particular story. Finishing it just felt wrong until the past couple of years. Of course, there is a ton of OTHER stuff I should have been writing all those years, but all I have now is the present.

Me: I think that is great advice about not beating yourself up for not getting things done in the past. I think we can all take that to heart. Did you ever get discouraged along the way and what kept you going?

Michael: Many times. Before having any success as a writer, the tendency is to spend a lot of time in denial. The over active imagination kicks in again. "I'm not that good," "this writing is a waste of time, I could be watching TV", etc. Finally, I had to just will myself into believing that I could do it, and it was possible because of that same imagination. I could see myself getting a novel published. When I finally combined fantasizing about it with actually working toward it on a daily basis, I eventually KNEW I would have a novel published. At some point, you need to get that certainty to get it done.

Me: I think that visualization is truly powerful, and had a powerful effect on you. I think if we visualize our successes more, we might have more of them too. So what is the craziest thing you have ever done?

Michael: One Tuesday in July 2003 I took a day off work and drove alone to the base of Lone Peak, and 11,000 foot mountain near my home. Having never done any mountaineering or even much hiking, I set out to reach the summit, alone. This was not wise. There was no one else on the mountain and I didn't have a cell phone. I reached the summit surrounded by 300 foot cliffs on all sides. The wind was blowing hard. I could have been killed a dozen times. On the way back down I got bad blisters on both feet and lost the trail. It was almost dark when I literally crawled the last half-mile to my car and drove home. I would like to say I'm proud of that achievement, but I would sound like an idiot.

Me: I don't know it sounds pretty darn impressive to me that you were able to do what you did. And it is a darn great story! If you could do anything knowing you couldn't fail what would it be?

Michael: Jump off of Lone Peak. No, really I would dive into writing a huge, epic world-building fantasy series like Robert Jordan's Wheel of Time. Wouldn't it be cool to have scads of people living in a world of your own creation as they read your books and follow your characters over thousands of pages? How would it feel to have people line up in anticipation of your next book? Intend to find out, by eventually developing the knowledge that I cannot fail.

Me: Personally, I think you should go for it Micheal! I think you would be more successful than you would ever imagine. I say take the jump! Not off Lone Peak, but into your dream! Thanks so much for stopping by today Michael. I had a great time getting to know you better. I can't wait to get my hands on The Rogue Shop!

Michael: Thank you Debbie for hosting me today.

Me: I had a blast getting to know you! I'm glad you could be here. Just a note, you can get a hard copy or e-copy of The Rogue Shop by clicking here. You can also visit Michael's website at http://www.michaelknudsenauthor.com/

Book Review : Perilous By Tamara Heiner

Perilous by Tamara Heiner is her debut book and what a fantastic start. Perilous is an amazing action pack Y/A thriller that will keep you on the edge of your seat. I literally could not put this book down and read it in one day. It pulled me into the story right away, and I had to find out what happened next, and was so relieved to know that a sequel is in the works when I wanted the story to go on at the end.

Tamara's writing style is very fluid and crisp. She develops her characters so that you can see them clearly in your mind. You can see the locations and events in your mind as if you were there to experience them yourself. The smell, the sounds, and colors all splash to life in front of you as the events unfold as if on a movie screen, they are vivid and full of life.

The story begins as four girls go to the mall to celebrate a birthday only to be left behind unexpectedly when the mall closes, the parent picking them up is late. They witness a crime and are kidnapped as a result. They are held hostage by ruthless, violent, men. They are dragged across the Canadian boarder, and are in a scary predicament being able to identify their assailants. In an escape attempt one is murdered, the rest are left to go on and hoping for their chance to get away. They are all affected on different levels, and not one of them will remain untouched by the experience, as they try to find a way back home.

Jaci, one of the girls emerges as a leader and finds she has the ability to hold the girls together in their journey to get home. In their escape, they are hunted by their kidnappers all along the Canadian/U.S. boarder as the powerful criminal that held them hostage, sends his men searching for them. Watching and waiting to get them back. Then to add to it all Jaci discovers something about her dad that may connect him to the kidnappers, and she wonders if she will ever be free of them again.

New mysteries unfold as the story progresses and twists and turns pop up unexpectedly. It is difficult for the girls to trust anyone and learn to rely on themselves. They find they are stronger than they ever expected. And meet some unlikely friends along the way.

I loved every page in this psychological thriller. It starts with a bang, and doesn't let up until the last page, when you realize you have just been on an emotional roller coaster, and don't want to get off. I wait in great anticipation for the sequel.

If you would like to purchase your own copy of Perilous, you can get both the hard copy and e-book versions here. I promise you won't be disappointed. Visit Tamara's website here.

Disclaimer: While I do sometimes receive copies of books I review, it in no way influences my opinions, they are and will always be my own.

Awesome Prizes!

Check out Trisit Pinkston's awesome month of give a ways to celebrate the arrival of her new book Dearly Departed. A new prize will be awarded every 24 hours, and they are amazing! You don't want to miss it! You could win jewelry, movies, plus a ton of other exciting things, including the grand prize of a free nights stay at the Lion Gate Manor in Lava Hot Springs. Visit Tristi's blog for the total scoop at http://www.tristipinkston.blogspot.com/. Don't miss out!!

By the way congratulations on your new book release Tristi! I am so totally stoked for you and can't wait to read it!

Keeping Committed~No Matter What!

Nanowrino has me caught in its tight magical grip, and I hope it never releases me! New unexpected plot twists are being unveiled and it is so much fun to see what will happen next as the story I have worked on for a year, shares new secrets with me. It has captivated me and I have loved every minute of it.

With most amazing month of nanowrino half over I have had such wonderful success with holding to the goal of writing 50,000 words. So far I am already past 30,000 words heading for the home stretch. So all of my writing time is taken there.

For this reason, I wanted to publish a post I wrote a while back about making goals on writing. It is focused on committing to writing every day for an hour, but I found another way that has been hugely inspiring and that is meeting a word count goal for the day. In doing so I have written over 100 pages in my book in 17 days. I can't wait to see what I can accomplish by the end of the month.

So, for all you nanowrimo people out there! Keep the faith, you are awesome! And hold true to your word count goals, or time goals. Here is my post, I hope you enjoy it! I feel it hold so much of what I am going through with writing for nanowrimo, it really speaks of holding on and never giving in!

~*~*~*~
Last September I took a huge leap of faith, I decided that the writer inside me dying to be let out and be heard, could be. I began to write my first novel even though I was afraid of being found out and exposed by the inner workings of my mind.

Besides, who was I, a crazy busy mom of seven very active kids to think I could be a writer?

This summer alone I had to get my boys to basketball, football, lacrosse, and track practices, camps, games and meets. I was teaching 3 to 4 plus group exercise classes a week, and leading a bunch of energetic fun 12 and 13 year old girls for our church's young women's youth group. Not to mention getting my second daughter ready for college, and keeping my little children entertained too all while my husband was going to be gone most of the time.


But, I figured if I could commit myself to the incredibly difficult goal of running a full marathon with all the training it required and raise over 2200 dollars for charity (which I ended up finishing in a little over 7 hours through hail, rain, snow and winds that blew me off the road) and do another one that same year, then I could commit to being an author and this goal I set for myself.

So I took up a challenge to write every day in the month of July for an hour. I was committed, no matter what. It would be a piece of cake, right? After all it was just an hour a day.

Well, I was way wrong on this one.

It turned out to be more difficult than I could have ever imagined.

Not thinking, I chose to take on this challenge that would be in effect during a caving trip , going out of town to visit family that had plans of their own that I was expected to be a part of for 8 days, taking care of kids on my own while my husband was either traveling for work or serving the Lord at Scout Camp or cooking for over 250 people on a four day Pioneer Trek, most of the month of July. In addition, I was traveling on my own with all seven of my kids (ages 19 to 6 years) to Utah to see my mom, brother and to take my daughter to college orientation in Logan.

Not a single day of this challenge went by that I haven't started writing before 12 am. It is so hard at times. I'm sooo tempted at times to just quit and not keep at it. But I told myself that I was writing no matter what, like I promised myself. And so with bleary eyes and jumbled brain waves, I stayed committed.

I can honestly say I haven't missed a single day of writing and kept my goal alive, beyond my expectations, even when it was as late (or early) as 1:30 am when I finally hit the keys. After finishing my writing time for the day, I always feel a huge sense of accomplishment for not giving up on me.

I have made more progress this month than I ever thought possible. I know that some days my eyes are held open with extra help, when all they want to do was head off to dream land. But I am somehow able to rouse myself enough to finish what I am writing on, hit save and stumble off to bed.

So I say, if me and my crazy self can keep committed to writing everyday no matter how out of control life can get, then I believe you can do it too.

So experiment! Try it out for yourself. Make a goal, stay with it, and come tell me what it was and how it went. I'd love to hear about your writing experiences. Besides, I know one thing for sure, you definitely won't be sorry, when you look back at your accomplishments.

One Moment that Changes Everything

Health is a precarious thing. One minute you can feel as if you are immortal, invincible even, and in the very next breath it can all disappear. It is vital to take care of yourself and realize how precious good health really can be.

This morning at 1:15 am my 9 year-old daughter came stumbling into my bedroom gasping for breath. She had panic infused in her eyes and terror written all over her face as she struggled with out success to draw air into her lungs.

She couldn't even speak, with all the effort it took for her to fill her lungs with life-giving oxygen. She was in the midst of a full-blown asthma attack. We hadn't seen one this bad in over five years. We rushed to find her inhalers and prayed she could draw enough of it into her lungs to buy some us some time.

Time to get her to the emergency room. It only took us 7 minutes to get there, but every breath was a struggle. Thankfully, the albuterol began to slowly work and she could get more air moving in her restricted airways. Still, getting to the hospital was at a high urgency.
Once in the ER, the doctors flew to her giving her oral meds, setting up IVs, hooking her to monitors that took careful watch of her oxygen levels and her racing hear rate. A heart rate that sped along at 165 bpm while she was laying down on the bed as doctors put epinephrine in her body to get her to breathe and stop the attack on her ravaged lungs. Turning the O2 levels up as high as possible, the purple dragon oxygen mask delivered much the much needed pure oxygen that gave sweet relief.

And then they heard it.

The doctors and nurses stopped what they were doing and looked at each other puzzled.

A barky cough. But she was too old for that early-childhood illness of croup.

Frantically, they ran around the ER, realizing that all the meds they had just pumped into her body were not going to be effective and rushed to find and administer the ones that would ease her breathing and calm her racing heart. Then because of conflicting meds warring against each other inside of her body, we were in for a long wait as her body responded to all that was being done to help her return to the vivacious, carefree, playful 9 year-old she normally was.
It took 6 1/2 hours for her heart to slow to under 100 beats per minute. While in deep sleep, it still sped along, bouncing between 111 and 120 bpm (the heart rate of a moderate workout). Finally, her heart stayed below 100 bpm for a sustained period of time, and we knew we were home free.

Until she woke up and her hear jumped to 145 bpm with an irratic beat, for the next 45 minutes more tests were done, x-rays of her lungs taken, and evaluations on EKG stressors checked to see how she would respond with out the assist of extra oxygen and simple walking. Only then, even still a bit hesitant, the doctor let us take her home, under careful watch in case she should have a relapse, with the promise that we would take her to the doctor's in the morning to be re-evaluated, and have her progress checked.

In sharing this hair-raising event I wanted to send a simple reminder that health is a precious gift, that we far too often take for granted, or feel it is too inconvenient to bother with. But all too soon and faster than imagined it can be snatched away if you are not careful, and guard it with faithful diligence.

So make a promise to yourself that everyday you will find ways to be more healthy.Whether it is in increased exercise, watching what you eat, or stopping a life-threatening habit, commit to yourself not to take your health for granted.

Commit to yourself that you will take small measured steps to increase the level that you care for yourself. Then guard it carefully, because we only get one body to take us through our adventures in this life and we want to be sure that we can have our greatest adventures still to come. And if we take care of ourselves, we will find it less likely that our health will be fleeting in our next steps into life.

Bill Phillips once said," If you wait until things are "perfect" before you begin something healthy, challenging, and new, you'll be waiting forever. Set a deadline for when to begin."

So take a moment, breathe in deep and fill your lungs to capacity with oxygen infused air and let it out. Realize how wonderful it truly is to feel them move freely as they fill your blood stream and then your body with energy enriched oxygen and be grateful for good health and the ability to build strong bodies.


Here is a yummy fall treat to try out to help you along the way to good health!

Crank Up Your Crockpots!This applesauce recipe is a serious time saver"One of my favorite fall treats is fresh applesauce," says Cheryl Forberg, RD, The Biggest Loser nutritionist. "It can be a hassle to cook but store-bought varieties are usually loaded with added sugar. The recipe below, which employs a crockpot, is a real time-saver; you don't need to monitor the sauce as it simmers on the stovetop, or stir it to prevent sticking. Plus, this recipe has no added sugar."Chunky Crock Pot Applesauce This makes a great topping for hot cereal or the perfect addition to stir into yogurt.Yield: About three cups (six 1/2-cup servings)
8 unpeeled medium-size apples (about 3 1/2 pounds of Gala, Delicious or Fuji), cored and cut into one-inch pieces
1/4 cup water
1 tablespoon lime or lemon juice
1 tablespoon pure vanilla extract
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Place all ingredients in crockpot. Toss to coat apples. Cover and cook on low setting for 4 hours. Cool slightly. Serve warm or cold.Note: Granny Smith or other tart apples may be used, though sweetener may be needed.
Recipe from The Biggest Loser Nutrition Facts per 1/2-Cup Serving:Calories 145Calories from Fat 0Sodium 0mgDietary Fiber 7gSugar 28g


Make this week awesome, ask yourself how you can change your life so that good health is not something to be taken for granted. Write out how you are going to make each breath you take worth living!

See you in the water!

Debbie Davis
http://www.debbiesinkspectations.blogspot.com/
24 hour fitness group exercise instructor

Classes:

Mon Aqua 10:00 am Centennial Super Sport
Tues Aqua 9:30 am North Aurora Chambers * now an hour
Thur Aqua 5:30 pm North Aurora Chambers * now an hour
Sat Aqua 9:00 am Lowry

Book Review: Intrinsical By Lani Woodland

Intrinsical by Lani Woodland is a new young adult paranormal romance that gives a new slant to what paranormal is all about. It is her debut novel and it is filled with everything that makes paranormal so exciting as she creates a new way of showing us how out of the ordinary life can really be. It is the perfect way to have a taste of Halloween anytime of the year. It delves into ghosts, curses, dark sinister mists, hauntings, and let's not forget a little romance along the way.

I loved this story from start to finish and it grabbed me and had me hanging on for dear life wondering what was going to happen next. I couldn't turn the pages fast enough as I devoured all the many unexpected twists that forced surprise from my mouth numerous times.

In addition to the amazing story-weaving talents Lani possess,where she easily casts the reader under the spell of her well-written, engaging characters; she also has an incredible eye for photography. She took the fabulous underwater picture that graces her cover.

In Intrinsical, Yara was looking forward to attending Pendrell boarding school with her best friend, Cherie. It was a chance to escape all the jokes about her crazy ghost-talking grandmother. She wanted to be normal and with relief thought that the dormant Waker gene that let her grandmother see and talk with ghosts might just have missed claiming her. But when she sees a dark mist trying to attack Brent, a gorgeous, popular athlete, and tries to kill him, she impulsively jumps in to save his life. But this causes her to draw the attention of the dark mist as it begins to stalk her as she learns about the curse that has haunted her new school with dark spirits, as it seeks to threaten her life. At the same time Brent turns his focus to Yara as he wants to know more about the girl who saved his life.

Then Yara's best-friend Cherie, excited to investigate all the stories of hauntings around the school, hopes to make contact with the ghosts of the curse. She drags her new boyfriend Steve along with Yara and Brent into the heart of the curse, but she doesn't have the ability to make contact, even though she studied with Yara's grandmother,the ways of the Wakers, strange things begin to happen around them.

Meanwhile, Yara learns that maybe the Waker gene didn't skip a generation after all. Fighting her heredity and her growing powers as a Waker she finds herself pulled further and further into the realm of ghosts and dark spirits as she and her friends delve deeper into finding out about the long standing curse and the mystery behind it the danger that lurks in the shadows as they learn that the deaths that occurred at the school and the sinister nature of them is may be more than what anyone ever realized.

Intrinsical held me spell-bound until the last amazing twist-filed page. I loved the characters and how they grew with each new discovery they made. The ties of friendship and loyalty are portrayed in a depth that shows the importance of courage, trust and always being there for each other. They changed as they learned that they could be more important in each other's lives than they ever imagined.

I loved how well each new surprise sprang out at me unexpectedly as incredible events where there was no turning back left you wondering how the characters could possibly overcome them and how unpredictable it all was in the end. It was refreshing to find this clean paranormal romance free of sex and swearing.

Lani's writing transported me to Pendrell where I felt the brush of the icy wind on my face and could smell the chlorine that permeated the air and hear the slopping wet foot prints as they appeared sinisterly as they drew closer and closer. I could even feel the chill go up my spine when a mysterious message appeared in a fogged up mirror. This is a book where you want to curl up in a under the covers with a flash light so you can chase away the shadows edging closer and closer.

You can learn more about the fascinating world of Intrinsical at http://www.intrinsicalthebook.com/ and you can purchase your own chilling ghost-filled copy of Intrinsical by clicking here or here.

Disclaimer: While I did receive a copy of the book from the author, my opinions are my own and not influenced in any way.

you can check out my review at barnes and noble here, and my review at amazon here.

Setting Goals that Transform You Inside and Out

As you enjoy the cool whisper of the autumn air and we edge ever closer to Halloween, it is a time of pumpkins and fun magical possibilities!
With those possibilities are the dreams that we make as we take a night to become something different, and take on the identity of a mythological creature or scary monster, it is about re-creating ourselves,even for just a spellbound night. But what if you could take that change and make it more permanent?

Not so much as turning ourselves into ghost and fairies for the rest of our lives, but more along the lines of changing who we want to become in a world not made up of fantastical creatures, but ordinary human beings. Make that extraordinary human beings!

We are all capable of changing and becoming more than we ever imagined. All it take is a little disciple and a smidgen of determination, guised in the form of a written goal. With a little encouragement and a chance to see progress, we can do amazing things.

There was a time in my life that I never thought I could run more than three miles. That distance seemed daunting! Then I was set with the challenge of running 26.2 miles. That seemed unbelievable, almost impossible. I couldn't see myself accomplishing that huge number. But then I decided that it was doable. That it could be done, and so I set a goal. With the help of good friends and a little disciple, I created mini goals to help me along the way.

I did not do 26.2 miles the next day, not even close. That number was still intimidating to me, but I did smaller ones. I ran 2 miles, then 5, then 8 and on and on, until I was up to 21 before the big event. Finally, the day of my first full marathon arrived. I started it at 5:30 am on a beautiful cool day up in the mountains of Steamboat Colorado. I was with a hand full of people doing an early start. I knew I needed all of the extra time I would be allotted to accomplish my biggest and still uncompleted goal of 26.2 miles. The day was calm when I started, I thought it would be easy, my adrenaline was racing through my veins as I ran along the black ribboned high way. I was so excited! It was going to be so much fun! It was the day I would finally meet that goal that I had trained 5 months for, working up to the big event little increments at a time. I was laughing, taking pictures of the breath taking scenery and was on an all time high.

But as the day progressed, things became more challenging. IT rained, the temperatures dipped low, and it snowed. The wind picked up with a fury to blow me off the road. Disgruntled Sunday drivers ran me off the road and at times almost hit me. I saw runner after runner pass me by, each encouraging me to keep going and not give up, counting them as they went wondering if I would be the last one to finish as I continued to push one foot in front of the other toward that golden shining moment when I would cross that finish line. I had Friends cheer me on the way with green wigs and horns, shouts of encouragement and treats. My family found me 5 miles out, and in the pouring rain which soon became mixed with pounding hail, 3 of my children rushed to meet me on the trial. The hugged my weary body and told me I could finish, not to give up I was so close. Then 2 of my sons decided to finish the journey with me. They braved the rain and hail that stung our skin when the wind kicked up, they ran by my side keeping my mind off my aching feet, and worn-out legs. The rest of my family found me again half a mile from the finish and they all ran out on the road to join me as I made my last few steps toward that elusive goal, the finish line. A little over seven hours after I started, I pulled my exhausted body into a last run to cross the line to the cheering cries of my family and friends. They rushed to hug me and tell me I was awesome. I had finally accomplished what I had once thought almost impossible.

I did not come close to finishing first, and to be honest... I ended up being dead last! The slowest time of the race. But that is not what mattered. What was important was that I did not stop, I never gave up, I kept trying until I finally made my goal. It was not always easy, but there were those who where there along the way, strangers, friends and family who helped me to reach my goal. Me, a mom of 7 children and running my first marathon at the age of 40, and not in the best shape of my life, I did it!

It is the same with everything else in our lives. IF we allow others to be there for us, If we let them know our goals and what we want to do, they will be there along the journey, encouraging us, helping us to not give in, and lifting us back up when we falter. I want you think about who in your life you could turn to, look around you at those who would encourage you. Maybe it is a co-worker, a spouse, a friend, a child. It could even be a stranger, who smiles encouragingly to you as you work hard to accomplish your goals. Just know that you can do what ever you set a mind to do. It may seem an impossible, daunting task, but by taking it a step at a time, with help along the way, you can accomplish the unbelievable! IT IS WITHIN YOU! You can become that new creature for more than just one fun filled night of dressing up, you can transform yourself into something wonderful. And as you do, the changes will become apparent to you on the inside as well as what everyone else will notice and see.

So take the challenge, as we head into the season of fun and celebrations. Write your fitness goals down. Decide what you are going to do. Break them up so they can be manageable, and tell some one what you plan to do, so they can help you make that goal a finish line that you can cross with determination and excitement. Send them to me and I will cheer you on as well! It can be anything, you don't have to run a marathon to be amazing, just planning your exercise schedule, eating right, and putting in your best efforts goes a long way to creating positive, permanent change. Aqua classes can help you in your calorie burn of 350-500 plus calories burned depending on how hard you work. Augmenting it with other cross trianing will help you see drastic improvements. Together we can all be more than we ever imagined. We can accomplish the incredible!

I look forward to hearing about the goals and challenge you set for yourself! Let me in on them, I will promise to cheer you on, no matter what. I will be there along the way and especially during that last half mile as you sprint to the finish line!

Have a rocking great week! See you all in the water!

love ya
Debbie Davis
24hour fitness group exercise instructor
http://www.debbiesinkspectations.blogspot.com/

Classes:

Thur 5:30 pm Aqua North Aurora Chambers * now an hour long!
Sat 9:00 am Aqua Lowry
Mon 10:00 am Aqua Centennial Super Sport
Tues 9:30 am Aqua North Aurora Chambers * now an hour long

Making Friends Monday

I want you to meet one of the neatest people I have had the chance to get to know~ Tristi Pinkston. She is an amazing friend. I feel it is a privilege to know her and I want to share her with you. I love her blog and like one of the really neat features she has on it called Making Friends Monday. I am so excited that I get to be featured on her blog, and I wanted to share a little bit about Tristi with you and some of the things that make her so wonderful!

Tristi Pinkston has been blogging since 2006. On her main blog, http://www.tristipinkston.blogspot.com/ she covers everything from writing tips and the life of a published author to kid funnies, spiritual thoughts, and embarrassing moments. She also has a weight loss blog, one for writing challenges, another for her fictional characters … and she lost count of how many others she has. You can find the links for them on her sidebar.

Tristi is the author of five published novels and a whole kit ‘n caboodle of unpublished novels. Right now she’s focusing on cozy mysteries, although she has written historical fiction in the past and plans to write more in that genre. She works as a freelance editor and a virtual book tour coordinator. She loves taking long naps, being charmingly annoying, and watching good movies. She’s a Mormon, a homeschooler, a Cubmaster, and most of the time, a headless chicken.

I read her book Agent in Old Lace and absolutely loved it! It was a hilarious face-paced read that kept me on the edge until the very last page and kept me up way past my bedtime. I know you will love reading it as much as me. I hope you had as much fun getting to know Tristi as I did, jump on over to her blog and say hi, I know she would love it!

Book Review: Defensive Tactics By Steve Westover

This is a story about Paul, Jimmy and Emily and how they each grow and find that they have more courage and strength to overcome incredible odds than they ever dreamed they had. It is an LDS action thriller that will keep you on the edge of your seat and pages flying until the last sentence into the earliest hours of the morning. I found that I couldn't put it down once I started. It has everything in it that you could ever want - FBI, corrupt judges, mob action, chase scenes, tragedies, love complications, and more.

New to their jobs in the FBI, Paul and Emily find they may connect on a level deeper than friendship. Then Jimmy, with his eccentric ways and interest in Emily, ends up staying with Paul. When Emily's life is in danger, it takes all of Paul's wits to try to get her out of danger . When Jimmy jumps in to help out anything can happen in the race against time to save her.
I love the idea of savvy yet sleazy bad guys who use thugs to do their dirty work and how it shows us how absolute power corrupts absolutely.

Defensive Tactics is a fast-paced story that grabs you and doesn't let go until the last pages. I loved how integrity and understanding, love and second chances are all so neatly woven into the story - especially with Jimmy. I totally identified with him and all that he was going through, the whole idea of overcoming terrible unexpected loss and wandering aimlessly in life as a result. I know that when Jimmy goes to get help from the LDS bishop, I felt I learned new important truths right along with Jimmy. The author has the ability to teach and nurture as he keeps the excitement going, and I read things that the bishop talked about in the book with Jimmy to my husband because they rang so deeply with in me. About life after death, what real judgement is about, and how not to assume that all is lost with our limited understanding of life after death. I found that I grew in my own understanding and learned a lot from this book. It made me sit up and go WOW, I just had an epiphany when gospel truths rang clearly. It actually helped me in dealing with the unexpected loss of my father earlier this year, to find the strength to pull myself up from floundering and to find the ability and desire to make important goals again, in a similar fashion to Jimmy.

I felt that this story had it all. I really enjoyed it from start to finish and found that I grew along with the characters in unexpected ways. I loved the Mafia aspect, and felt it was very realistic. I loved all the intrigue that kept me wanting to know what happens next. I felt that this was an amazing first book by Steve Westover and would never have believed that it was his first novel- if I hadn't been told. It has the air of a seasoned writer to it, with complicated plot twists and character growth throughout the story! I loved it and know that you can't go wrong picking it up to read. Just make sure you have a block of unscheduled time, because once you start reading, I guarantee that you will enjoy the rapid thrill-ride until you have reached the exciting and very satisfying conclusion!
You can get a copy of Steve's book here.

Disclaimer: While I did receive a copy of this book to review, my opinions are my own and not influenced in any way.