Tuesday, 7 May 2013

Virtual Book Tour: Review: From My Mama's Kitchen by Johnny Tan



Hello, Therians!

I'm back again :) but this time with a little something different.

From My Mama's Kitchen by Johnny Tan is a great motivational read. It should be at the top of everyone's TBR pile this Mother's Day, so get your copy now! 

Today is my first stop in the Virtual Book Tour. Check out my review below, and be sure to stop by tomorrow when Mr Tan will be joining me for a quick interview.

If you want to know more about the tour head on over to the JKSCommunications website.



SYNOPSIS

From My Mama’s Kitchen book is dedicated to the realization and mastery of the power of unconditional love as potent leadership. It offers a wealth of wisdom, practical living skills, and effective communication techniques.  The book reveals 30 timeless recipes for living, ranging from the power of relationships to the nature of love and the meaning of life brought to the reader in the nurturing comfort of a kitchen setting. From the virtue of spiritual awareness to self-actualization, Johnny Tan’s 9 moms have nourished him with their wisdom to become a person defined by his thoughts and actions.

Released with the endorsement of the National Association of Mothers’ Centers, the book has won five awards: Mom’s Choice Awards, Mr. Dad Seal of Recognition, Publisher’s Choice Awards by Family Magazine Group, International Book Awards, and National Indie Excellence Book Awards. The book also made the Amazon Best Seller List in the following categories: Parenting & Family Relationships: Parent and Adult Child, Self Help: Spiritual and Motivational, and Cooking, Food & Wine: Essay.

Designed as a keepsake for all occasions, meant to last and inspire forever. The book has a dedication page for readers to inscribe their own loved one’s name, and a space where readers can record their recipes for living.  At the end of the book, Johnny incorporates nine of his favorite food recipes.

Get your copy today!




2012

Amazon Best Seller Lists
Parenting & Family Relationship: Parent and Adult Child
Self Help: Spiritual and Motivational
Cooking, Food & Wine: Essay

2011

International Book Awards: Spirituality/Inspirational, and National Indie Excellence Book Awards: Inspiration




2010

Mom’s Choice Awards® Gold Recipient: Inspirational/Motivational, Mr. Dad Seal of Recognition, and Publisher’s Choice Award by Family Magazine Group






REVIEW



I haven't read many motivational books before. The thing I find about them is that they are often long-winded and I end up getting bored easily. What stood out for me the most about Johnny Tan's From My Mama's Kitchen, was the personal touch he adds to each and every message this book delivers.

It is not just another book that tells you what you should be doing to have a happier, longer or even more fulfilling life. Johnny Tan puts himself into the book making it an engaging read, while he imparts all the brilliant advice and wisdom passed along to him by his 9 moms. Through his many life experiences I got to see just how this advice and wisdom shaped him, and why the words on the pages of this book are so much more than just motivational talk. Just look at all Johnny has achieved in his life!

I must admit that part of why I read this book was my interest in learning about his 9 moms, and how they all fit into the picture. The affection Johnny has for each of them is evident in this book. He really listened to them and took to heart what they had to say; a lesson that every young person of today would do well to learn from. It gave me time to reflect back on all the times my mom, or one of my other moms, gave me advice. Did I listen? Did I take to heart what they were saying? Or did I brush it off and think I knew better? Well the truth is, I probably ignored most of what they said, at the time, but I listened well enough to remember their wise words at an age I could understand their true meaning.

As a lover of cooking, I enjoyed the many comparisons made between cooking and life, and couldn’t help nodding in agreement. This book held all the recipes for living, and then some. It showed just how important the role of a mother is, and why she truly is the wisest of them all. I particularly enjoyed chapter 5 “Food for the Soul”. There are many facets to a mother, and quite often these are taken for granted.

I loved that towards the end of this book there is a little section for the reader to add their own Mama’s recipe for living, and then, the delightful sharing of some amazing food recipes by Johnny’s own moms. I cannot wait to try each and every one.

This book certainly gave me food for thought. I appreciate my mother so much more than I ever have. Her wisdom, strength and support. There’s nothing more precious and heart-warming than a mother’s love.

Thank you to Johnny Tan, and his 9 moms, for sharing with the world your personal experiences and all the wisdom you have gained over the years. It was such a pleasure getting a glimpse into your life, whilst reflecting on my own.




I give it...

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Are you wondering how Johnny Tan managed to have 9 moms?? Check out this video...





ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Johnny Tan lived a life of unconditional love for the last 33 years. His journey began when he started college in Baton Rouge, Louisiana. Adopted at birth by his Malaysian mom, he realized the rich spiritual connections that resulted from meeting his foster mom in Poplar Bluff, Missouri, and 7 other women who would play important roles in his life. They represented his teachers, coaches, and counselors. Guided by his business achievements and his 9 moms, Johnny experienced the passion to compose From My Mamaʼs Kitchen to honor his moms and mothers everywhere. Released with the endorsement of the National Association of Mothers’ Centers, the book has won five awards and made the Amazon Best Seller List in several categories.
The bookʼs success lead Johnny to establish a powerful platform. He launched his consulting and speaking career to teach strategies on how to use the power of unconditional love to attain harmony. Johnny is also a featured host of a weekly Internet radio program, FMMK Talk Radio, which ranks in the top .1% of Blog Talk Radioʼs most popular shows. Guests have included The New Times number one best-selling authors and experts from the U.S. and other countries.
Johnny’s leadership experience extends from being a former corporate executive for eight years to owning his own business. He also served his community as chairman of Baton Rouge Area Convention and Visitor Bureau in 2001, commissioner of Baton Rouge Sister Cities Commission in 2000, chairman of Louisiana Restaurant Association Education Committee in 1998, as well as chairman of Project Baton Rouge 2020—a Vision of Opportunity with a World of Possibility in 1997, and president of Louisiana Restaurant Association Baton Rouge Chapter in 1995.

Vision and Mission Statement

Johnny believes the best way to know him is through his personal vision and mission statement, which he composed in January 1996.

For Myself: Using my gift of creativity and imagination, I will continue to invent the future by expressing my visions courageously in words and actions. I will always be a professional – honoring integrity, justice, kindness, and will always be humble and have a sense of humor in everything I do.

For My Family: They are my treasure. I will always promote and take the lead in building healthy and loving relationships that allow each of us to become his or her best.

For My Professional Life: I will create a learning environment that is fair and honest. I will cultivate and inspire others to greatness and success by acting as a catalyst in a shared vision.

For My Community: I am committed to enriching the lives of all who cross my path. I will let potent leadership permeate through the community. I will join hands with my brothers and sisters respecting everyone’s rights. I will support the people I represent, and endeavor to bolster their spirits and the good of the community.





Release Day Launch: Review & Giveaway: Inhale, Exhale by Sarah M. Ross




Hello, Therians!
 
I have another exciting New Adult Contemporary Romance to share with you all today!
Inhale, Exhale by Sarah M. Ross.
 
Check out my review and enter to win a "Grant" cupcake t-shirt, as well as other wonderful prizes!!


 SYNOPSIS

Jillian had a plan: celebrate the end of her first year of college with an amazing summer full of beaches, barbeques, and bonfires. When her mom insists she needs a summer job, and her boyfriend spends more time with his band than with her, Jillian’s plans go down the drain.

Grant had a plan: finish his Masters, get a great job at Google, and get the hell out of Georgia. He might be giving up some of the fun of his youth, but he knows his all work and no play method would be worth it when his dreams come true.

But things never go according to plan.

When temptation brings them together and tragedy tears them apart, Jillian and Grant will be forced to choose: fight for their dreams, or fight for each other.
REVIEW

This story, although combining all the major elements that make New Adult Contemporary Romances what they are, was quite different from others I have read in this genre.

Firstly, the female MC has a boyfriend, therefore she cannot just fall head first for the gorgeous, sexy guy who walks into her life. Secondly, this book wasn't all about their passionate relationship that is filled with plenty of hot and steamy sex.

The characters are all really great, with the exception of one particular douche bag liar. Jillian is a good girl with high values. She loves her boyfriend, or so she tells herself, so much so that she is willing to overlook his slacker attitude and the fact that she doesn't seem to be a huge priority in his life. I had to smile when he was compared to Jordan Catalano from My So-Called Life, because as he was being described, that was the first person I thought of.
There were a few moments in the story when I saw a spark of love and romance between Jillian and Christian, but otherwise I felt she was just fooling herself. I could relate to her fear of ending a long term relationship and the rut of being stuck in the "comfort zone" though.

Grant was a very sweet, down-to-earth guy. I liked that he was the IT guy, the most unlikely hero.
And I had to laugh at his annoyance at having to be called out to fix problems when the simple solution was to just restart your computer. There's a joke between my friends at work...we call out IT guy Mr. Restart, because that's all he ever tells us to do when we have a problem, much to our annoyance. So it was quite funny to see Grant's POV on the subject.
He's level headed, goal-oriented and the total opposite of Christian.

Jillian faces a few terrifying and heartbreaking times throughout this story. It was great that Grant was so understanding and he really was by her side through it all. I did think that it was a bit convenient that Christian just happened to never be available when she needed him, giving room for Jillian and Grant's relationship to blossom.

 This story was fun and exciting, with just enough drama to keep it serious. I didn't necessarily connect with the characters on an emotional level, but I loved that their story was realistic.
 
 It gets...
 
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GIVEAWAY

 
 
 
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
 
Sarah Ross started her obsession with reading at an early age, getting in trouble for sneaking BabySitter Club and Nancy Drew books into math class in elementary school. She would read any fiction book she could get her hands on. Sarah knew it was an addiction when instead of grounding her from TV or music, her mom would take away her books as punishment (The Horror!). Her love of all things paranormal was inspired by her good friend Laurie, who convinced Sarah that books with vampires, witches, and all things shifter were amazing. After a little reluctance, she gave it a shot with the Sookie Stackhouse books, realized she was right, and the rest was history.

Sarah grew up in Pittsburgh, graduated from The University of Pittsburgh with a degree in English, and taught 8th graders to love reading as much as she does for several years. She will always be a proud member of the Steelers Nation, but couldn’t take the cold and moved her frozen tush to Florida where she now lives with her family and two cats. You will find Sarah now with her trusty Kindle in hand and toes in the sand!
Connect with Sarah




Check out all the other stops in the Blog Tour



May 6th


May 7th

RELEASE DAY LAUNCH





May 8th


May 9th


May 10th


May 11th


May 12th


May 13th


May 14th


May 15th


May 16th


May 17th


May 18th


May 19th

Friday, 3 May 2013

Release Day Blitz: Renegade by Cambria Hebert



Hello, Therians!

Today is a very exciting but also very sad day, because today we celebrate the release of Renegade by Cambria Hebert...

HAPPY BOOK BIRTHDAY!!

...but with that comes the sadness that such an amazing series has to come to an end! :( :( :(




To celebrate such a bitter sweet moment, the entire series of full length novels have got all dressed up for the party in new and shiny covers!!
Check them out below!






Title: Renegade
Author: Cambria Hebert
Series: Heven and Hell Series
Genre: YA/Paranormal
Publisher: Self Published
Release Date: May 3 2013






















I’ve been beautiful. I’ve been ugly. I’ve died. I’ve been brought back. I’ve had abilities awakened within me. My strength has been tested. My beliefs have been tested.
Yet I stand.
What’s next when you’ve pretty much experienced it all?
The end.
Sam and I are picking up the pieces. We’re trying to come to terms with all we’ve lost. And as much as I would like to hide my head, ignore the reality I live every day, there is no forgetting.
Riley is in hell—I’m still not sure of his agenda. My mother’s past haunts me. And Kimber… Kimber is being herself. Cole sneaks glances at Gemma and she returns them when she thinks I don’t see.
But I do.
When Beelzebub escapes he brings his war to places I never thought he would. Earth. Maine. Home. Now everyone and everything is at risk. This has become bigger than my circle of friends. This has become bigger than me. I have to finish this. I have to find a way to stop him, to finish this war.
I just pray we will all be left standing in the end.




For a limited time only, grab Renegade for $0.99
Click on the picture below to get your copy today!!



GIVEAWAY



 Be sure to hop on over to Cambria's Website as she has more exciting news about the Heven & Hell series! She also has another fantastic giveaway for you to enter :)




 OTHER BOOKS IN THE
HEVEN & HELL SERIES



I'm disfigured. Scarred. Ugly.
When I look in the mirror, I see a stranger. When I look over my shoulder, no one's there…
Yet I feel watched. Hunted. Afraid.
And then he tells me I’m beautiful.
He tells me I’m safe.
I believe him.
Until someone tries to kill me.
Secrets abound, danger is near, and still… my heart desires a boy with whiskey-colored eyes and far too many secrets.
Secrets that could cost me my life.
To stay alive I have to look deep, beneath the masks everyone wears, to find the truth.
To find myself.








Dying at the hands of a psycho was a shock. Having my life returned to me by an angel was incredible. Being named a Supernatural Treasure and being given Sam as my guard was pretty darn awesome. Acquiring a debt for it all - well, I should have seen it coming. Now here we are, fighting demons from hell, caring for a boy that I just don't trust and traveling to faraway places to return a treasure to its rightful place. Nothing is as it seems. Everyone wears a mask, everyone puts on a charade. It's up to us to separate the truth from the lies and reality from fiction. A hard task when my new reality involves fallen angels, witches and dragons...and did I mention hell? Anchoring me down through it all is Sam. Sam who must face tragedies of his own and is put to the test again and again. If we fail in our task, life as we know it - life as you know it - will end. Forever.








Betrayal burns. Death hurts and the clock ticks…

Minutes and hours stretch into days. How long can Sam survive being confined in Hell? I have a plan… a plan with a lot of holes. I need someone who can make up for my weaknesses, someone who possesses the power that I lack. Riley is supposed to be off limits. He’s dangerous, he’s mean and he’s not to be trusted. But I do.

Beelzebub is on a tirade, bent on revenge. I took what he wants and sent him into the flames. I will wear the scars of his punishments forever. But scars don’t scare me anymore.

On my way to free Sam I find my true path, a secret place and new allies. But in Hell nothing is easy… and everything is cruel. The only thing left to do is survive.




Grab all the books in the Heven & Hell Series






ABOUT THE AUTHOR


Cambria Hebert is the author of the young adult paranormal Heven and Hell series and the Death Escorts series. She loves a caramel latte, hates math and is afraid of chickens (yes, chickens). She went to college for a bachelor’s degree, couldn’t pick a major and ended up with a degree in cosmetology. So rest assured her characters will always have good hair. She currently lives in North Carolina with her husband and children (both human and furry) where she is plotting her next book. You can find out more about Cambria and her work by visiting http://www.cambriahebert.com



Connect with Cambria





Thursday, 2 May 2013

Release Day Launch: Review & Giveaway: Rock With Me by Kristen Proby




Hello, Therians!
It's Book Birthday time again, and today I'd like to wish a very happy Book Birthday to Kristen Proby and Rock With Me!
This is the fourth book in the With Me in Seattle Series.


Enter the giveaway below for a chance to win a copy of this exciting book :)



SYNOPSIS

Front Man Leo Nash from the world-famous rock band, Nash, is the last person on earth Samantha Williams would trust. She's already learned about loving a celebrity the hard way and isn't signing up for another lesson.

Every time Sam gives Leo attitude, he wants to knock that chip off her fragile little shoulder. What the hell did he ever do to her, anyway? He's not used to women treating him like he's poisonous, and he isn't about to let her run away every time he gets close. He's had enough of people running away to last him a lifetime...when this one runs, he gives chase. But, catching Sam isn't as hard as he thought.

The sexual attraction between them is so thick, Sam can practically hold it in her hand. There's no way she can deny herself the promise of pleasure being with Leo would provide. But, pleasure always comes with pain and when secrets are revealed and trust is challenged, who will run and who will chase?


REVIEW

"I'm afraid to fall."
"I'll catch you, baby."


 First off, I love the cover of this book. It's sexy, and I'm such a sucker for guys with tats and who can play the guitar.

Sam is a really awesome MC. She has her fears and from time to time puts up these walls that keep people from coming too close, but she has her reasons, and rightfully so. This doesn't stop her from being strong and confident though, and sometimes she can be just a little too independant and stubborn, which kind of makes her seem like a real bitch. But when she brings down those walls, and allows those she cares about to step into her safe zone, she's fun and carefree.

 Her relationship with Joe is a little rocky in the beginning, but they seem like a rock solid couple that nothing can tear apart...not even the evil wench groupie who flaunts and rubs herself all over Joe. I have to give props to Sam. I would have ripped her head off just on principle. 

Joe is as sexy as hell,and he's such a sweetheart. Basically, he's the whole package.
He can cook, he looks after Sam when she's sick and OMG! I want someone to write a song about me!! 
 I'm so jealous of Sam, she gets to lick his stars!!
I loved how grounded Joe is. Yes, he's this huge rockstar, sex god, but he's down to earth and just a regular guy who cherishes family, not money and fame.   

The chemistry between Joe and Sam is off the charts, and their sex life is smoking.
I did feel that a most of the body of this story focused on Joe and Sam's sexual exploits, and don't get me wrong, they were hot, but I would have liked to see more from their relationship, aside from the sex.
For this reason, I wasn't able to fully connect with the characters and I wasn't as emotionally invested in the story as I normally would be.

Other than that, it was an exciting read, with plenty of humor and sassiness, with fun secondary characters who played off each other so well, reminding me of my own family get togethers. Lovers of Contemporary Romances won't be able to put this book down for a second.

It gets...

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GIVEAWAY




ABOUT THE AUTHOR


Kristen is the author of the Amazon and USA Today bestselling With Me In Seattle series. She has a passion for a good love story and strong characters who love humor and have a strong sense of loyalty and family. Her men are the alpha type; fiercely protective and a bit bossy, and her ladies are fun, strong, and not afraid to stand up for themselves.
Kristen spends her days with her muse in the Pacific Northwest. She enjoys coffee, chocolate and sunshine. And naps.


 Connect with Kristen:




Check out the other stops in the Blog Tour:


May 1st


May 2nd

RELEASE DAY LAUNCH





May 3rd


May 4th


May 5th


May 6th


May 7th


May 8th


May 9th


May 10th


May 11th


May 12th


May 13th


May 14th

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