Monday, December 29, 2014

Calling All Coffee Lovers - 50% OFF of One Bag of WAVE 3 Whole Bean Coffee!

As most of my blog readers already know, I kinda like my daily cups of coffee. I thought I would share this coupon code that gives you 50% OFF of one bag of WAVE 3 Whole Bean Coffee.

All you have to do is hop on over to Amazon.com, add the WAVE 3 Whole Bean Coffee to your Amazon shopping cart and enter the promo code WAVE3SAV at checkout.

The coupon is valid for the next 30 days!




Monday Morning Madness #48: Recovering From The Christmas Mayhem


I hope everyone has recovered from the Christmas mayhem. I'm definitely ready to put the holidays behind me and start preparing for 2015!

Now before I get to my 2015 plans, I would like to list (well, brag) all the Christmas Gifts I received this year.

I'll start first with the books - Private India: City On Fire by James Patterson & Ashwin Sanghi, Dangerous Creatures by Kami Garcia & Margaret Stohl, Silver Shadows by Richelle Mead, Prince Lestat by Anne Rice, Killing Patton by Bill O'Reilly & Martin Dugard and Revival by Stephen King. I also received all of the Outlander books by Diana Gabaldon - Outlander, Dragonfly In Amber, Voyager, Drums of Autumn, The Fiery Cross, A Breath of Snow and AshesAn Echo In The Bone, and  Written in My Heart's Own Blood.

The DVDs include The Expendables 3, Operation Petticoat, Penny Dreadful: The Complete First Season, True Blood: The Complete Seventh Season, The Vampire Diaries: The Complete Fifth Season, The White Queen, Arrow: The Complete Second Season, The Strain: The Complete First Season, 9, World War Z and I, Frankenstein. The Blu-rays include Godzilla and X-Men: Days Of Future Past!

Sunday, December 28, 2014

Short Review - Doctor Who: The Blood Cell


Doctor Who: The Blood Cell
by James Goss
Publisher: Broadway Books
Pub. Date: September 9, 2014
ISBN: 978-0804140928
Pages: 256
Buy Link: Amazon

Review:

I've been a Doctor Who fan ever since I saw the first episodes of the first series (season) of the current incarnation back when it aired on the Scfi Channel (now known as Syfy). Though I have been well aware of all the novelization out there, I only started reading a few of the Doctor Who books this year.

 Doctor Who: The Blood Cell centers on the Doctor being stuck on an asteroid prison where he is known as Prisoner 428. The book primarly focuses on the warden - the Governor. The prison is cut off from civilians, so the Governor is a bit shocked when a young woman shows up pleading for Prisoner 428's release. Of course this woman is the Doctor's current companion, Clara.

While I have enjoyed reading the other recently released Doctor Who books, this one is a little bit of a disappointment. Don't get me wrong, there are a few entertaining parts here and there, but as a whole it was quite boring.


*Disclaimer - I received a complimentary copy in exchange for my honest review. All opinions are my own.


About the Author:

AMES GOSS has written three Torchwood novels, a Doctor Who novel, and two radio plays, and is the co-author, with Steve Tribe of The Dalek Handbook and Doctor Who: A History of the Universe in 100 Objects. His books Dead of Winter and First Born were both nominated for the 2012 British Fantasy Society Awards.  

Review - Doctor Who: The Crawling Terror


Doctor Who: The Crawling Terror
by Mike Tucker
Publisher: Broadway Books
Pub. Date: September 9, 2014
ISBN: 9780804140904
Pages: 256
Buy Link: Amazon

Review:

Doctor Who fans have a lot of time to waste waiting for the 9th series (season) to begin, but luckily we have a few Doctor Who novels to keep us busy, including Doctor Who: The Crawling Terror by Mike Tucker.

Set during the 12th Doctor's time-line, the book centers on the Doctor and his companion, Clara, arriving in the small village of Ringstone, which is being overruled by alien bugs! With the UNIT preoccupied with something else, the British Army decides to take matters into their own hands by cutting off the village from the outside world, followed by a possible airstrike.

Of course the Doctor isn't going to standby and let innocent people get killed. Besides from being angry at the British Army, things get even more complicated when the Doctor gets separated from Clara.

Review: Star Wars: A New Dawn by John Jasckson Miller

*This is a sponsored review. All opinions are 100% mine.


While there are countless tie-in novels set in the Star Wars' universe, I have only read a handful of them. With next year's Star Wars: The Force Awakens hitting theaters (which is less than a year away), I have become re-interested in the franchise. I have even caught a few episodes of the new Disney XD animated series, Star Wars: Rebels.

One of the newest books in the franchise is Star Wars: A New Dawn by John Jackson Miller. It is set between episodes III and IV and serves as a prequel to Star Wars: Rebels. The novel centers on a bunch of misfit characters, Kanan, Hera, Skelly, and Zaluna, whom are trying to stop the Empire from taking over the galaxy.

Saturday, December 27, 2014

Brilliant HD - Deluxe Teeth Whitening Kit Review



As many of my blog readers already know, I am a heavy coffee drinker and while there is nothing wrong with drinking coffee, the habit does come at a price - stained teeth.

Luckily for me, I tried out a teeth whitening kit last month. I am now determined to keep a bright smile for 2015, so I applied to review the Brilliant HD - Deluxe Teeth Whitening Kit and I was one of the lucky bloggers picked to review it.

The kit features:

2 10ML Syringes of Whitening Gel (Carbamide Peroxide)
1 Remineralization Gel Syringe
2 Mouth Trays
Tray Case

Enter These Giveaways!

Friday, December 26, 2014

Book Blogger Hop: Dec. 26th - Jan. 1st

Book Blogger Hop

Welcome to the new Book Blogger Hop!

If you want schedule next week's post, click here to find the next prompt question. To submit a question, fill out this form.

What to do:

1. Post on your blog answering this question:

  This week's question is submitted by Elizabeth!

Do you have a book with a location that you just HAD to visit after reading the book?

2. Enter the link to your post in the linky list below (enter your Blog Name and the direct link to your post answering this week’s question. Failure to do so will result in removal of your link).


3. Visit other blogs in the list and comment on their posts. Try to spend some time on the blogs reading other posts and possible become a new follower.  The purpose of the hop is to give bloggers a chance to follow other blogs, learn about new books, befriend other bloggers, and receive new followers to your own blog.
  

My Answer: 

No. I don't think I would want to visit a location that was featured in a book, as when I'm reading I have created a specific picture of the location in my mind and I'm afraid I'll be disappointed when I see it in person.


Linky List:

Wednesday, December 24, 2014

DVD Review - A Princess For Christmas

A Princess For Christmas
Starring: Katie McGarth, Sam Heughan, Roger Moore
Studio: LionsGate
Release Date: October 16, 2012
Retail: $14.98
ASIN: B008U1ANHG
Running Time: 90 minutes
Rating: Not Rated
Buy Link: Amazon

Review:

If you have been channel surfing this month, then you have probably noticed the overload of Christmas movies, especially on the Hallmark Channel. I tend to ignore these movies as they are normally extremely cheesy with bad acting. However, I found myself flipping through channels late one night a few weeks ago and stumbled upon a movie with what looked like an older Roger Moore in it. After a quick "Google" search, I learned that film was called A Princess For Christmas and it indeed had Roger Moore, aka James Bond, in it.

Originally titled, Christmas At Castlebury Hall, the film centers on a young woman, Jules Daly (played by Katie McGrath), who has been raising her nephew, Milo (played by Travis Turner), and her niece, Maddie (played by Leilah de Meza), ever since the death of her sister and brother-in-law. Jules has had a serious a bad luck with Milo getting caught stealing, the kids' nanny quitting and the little fact that Jules lost her job.

Suddenly, the butler of Duke Edwards, who happens to the be the kids' father's father, shows up at their doorsteps with invitation for them to visit Castlebury Hall. Jules declines the offer at first as she knows that the Duke had disowned the kids' father when he married her sister. She later changes her mind as she thinks it would be a good experience for Milo and Maddie.


Tuesday, December 23, 2014

Review - A New Season by Al & Lisa Robertson


A New Season
by Al & Lisa Robertson
with Beth Clark
Publisher: Howard Books
Pub. Date: January 6th, 2015
ISBN: 978-1476773209
Pages: 272
Buy Link: Amazon

Review:

I believe by now almost every American has probably heard of the A&E reality series Duck Dynasty starring the Robertson family, especially when the family's patriarch, Phil Robertson, became the center of a media controversy after last year's interview in GQMagazine. Whether you're a fan of the series or not, the Robertson family has become a household name.

Arriving in bookstores on January 6th is A New Season by Al & Lisa Robertson, aka the eldest Robertson son and his wife of over 30 years. Al is also known as the beardless brother who was a Senior Pastor until rejoining the Duck Commander business in 2012. The book is co-written by author Beth Clark, who also co-wrote this year's Women of Duck Commander and Live Original.

A New Season chronicles Al (Alan) and Lisa (Gibson) from their early childhood to their courtship and their marriage. Just because they're Christians doesn't mean they don't have problems as their marriage encountered several demons over the years including deceit, infidelity, distrust and shame. While most couples in their situation would most likely get a divorce, they some how beat the odds and saved their marriage through their strong faith in the Lord.

Monday, December 22, 2014

Franklin's Gourmet Popcorn Review


Who doesn't like popcorn?

Occasionally, I like to pop a bag of popcorn when I'm watching a movie late at night, but it seems most brands no longer make microwave popcorn like they use to as most of the popcorn ends up burning. The same goes for popcorn at the movie theaters, except it is lathered with too much butter and it is sickening to eat.

I very seldom buy a plain bag of popcorn as my old air-popcorn maker has seen its last days. However, I can always make popcorn using an old fashioned metal pan and lid, so when I saw there was an opportunity to review Franklin's  Gourmet Popcorn, I eagerly signed up. Luckily, I was one of the few bloggers who got a chance to review the popcorn.

What a treat it was to receive a box by UPS last Thursday filled with 8 oz - 24 packs of Franklin's Gourmet Popcorn. Each pack contains 100% whole grain organic popcorn kernels, coconut oil and salt. The bag is being sold on Amazon for $39.95, which may seem a little pricey, but once you think about it, it is only around $1.67 per pack.


Sunday, December 21, 2014

Review - A Matter Of Heart


A Matter Of Heart
Lone Star Brides, book 3
by Tracie Peterson
Publisher: Bethany House
Pub. Date: October 7, 2014
ISBN: 978-0764210600
Pages: 320
Buy Link: Amazon

Review:

I read Christian romance novels on a regular basis, while I do try out new authors, I mostly read only my favorite ones, which one of them happens to be author Tracie Peterson. The first books I read by her were the Heirs of Montana series. I received the third installment of Lone Star Brides awhile back from Bethany House in exchange for my honest thoughts.

A Matter Of Heart is set in Texas in the late 1800s centers on Jessica Atherton, a wealthy young woman who has had her heart practically stomped on by the man she had planned on marrying. (You need to read the first two books to understand what I'm referring to.) She is a spoiled brat and one of the most selfish characters, but here she is taking center stage for the final book of the series.

This is a romance novel, so of course there is a suitor for Jessica, well, actually there are two suitors for her - Harrison Gable and Austin Todd. Harrison a successful lawyer that showers Jessica with gifts.

Saturday, December 20, 2014

DVD Review - Learn to Swing - Beginners Vol. 2


Learn to Swing - Beginners Vol. 2
Studio: Dance Crazy.com
Release Date: February 23, 2007
Retail: $39.95
ASIN: B000NA2P9Q
Running Time: 54 minutes
Rating: Not Rated
Buy Link: Amazon

Review:

Yes, here I am again writing a review on another how-to-dance DVD. DanceCrazy.com, the company who creates these DVDs, was orignally created in 1996 as SalsaCrazy.com and later DancyCrazy.com was born. The company was created to help anyone learn how to dance. As one of their first instructors said, "It will change your life."

I'll start out by mentioning the little fact that I have always had two left feet and had no desire to learn how to dance until I started looking into low-intensity workouts. These types of DVDs from DancyCrazy.com is exactly what I was looking for as the instructors give you a step-by-step process for each dance.

Learn to Swing - Beginners Vol. 2 picks up directly where Vol. 1 leaves off, which features a male (Eldon) and a female (Alison) instructor giving you information on technique, style and teaches you the importance of connection with your dance partner. You'll learn how to dance the single and triple count East Coast Swing.

Review - Gathering Shadows


Gathering Shadows
Finding Sanctuary, book 1
by Nancy Mehl
Publisher: Nancy Mehl
Pub. Date: May 6, 2014
ISBN: 978-0764211577
Pages: 320
Buy Link: Amazon

Review:

I've been trying to catch up on a few books that have been piled up on my desk collecting dust for several months. One of these books happens to be Gathering Shadows by Nancy Mehl, an author that I instantly liked ever since I read the first book in the Road to Kingdom series. Plus, I do enjoy the fact that author lives in my home state of Missouri.

Gathering Shadows centers on a St. Louis reporter, Wynter Evans, who stumbles upon a photo of a boy that resembles her brother, Ryan, who went missing at nine-years-old. Being a reporter, she has a few detective skills up her sleeves and with a little research she is able to find out that the picture was taken in the small Mennonite community of Sanctuary, Missouri.

Upon arriving in Sanctuary, Wynter teams up the town's young mayor, Rueben King, in the pursuit of identifying the young boy in the photo. She never imagined that she would unravel a dark family mystery that was meant to stay buried.


Friday, December 19, 2014

Book Blogger Hop: Dec. 19th - 25th

Book Blogger Hop

Welcome to the new Book Blogger Hop!

If you want schedule next week's post, click here to find the next prompt question. To submit a question, fill out this form.

What to do:

1. Post on your blog answering this question:

  This week's question is submitted by Samantha!

Do you write a review for every book you read or only review copies from publishers?

2. Enter the link to your post in the linky list below (enter your Blog Name and the direct link to your post answering this week’s question. Failure to do so will result in removal of your link).


3. Visit other blogs in the list and comment on their posts. Try to spend some time on the blogs reading other posts and possible become a new follower.  The purpose of the hop is to give bloggers a chance to follow other blogs, learn about new books, befriend other bloggers, and receive new followers to your own blog.
  

My Answer: 

Sadly, I don't have much time to read an non-requested book reviews; let alone write a review for them.


Linky List:

Start 2015 Off Right With The Jabra From Best Buy


While I'm sure most of us are trying to get your last-minute Christmas shopping finished, there is also no time like the present to start planning your New Year's Resolution. With all the holiday meals and sweets we have been eating, it is no surprise that the #1 resolution is losing weight.

If this is your resolution, then you might be considering getting a gym membership or buying a treadmill, but those can be kinda costly. And lets face the facts, most of us end up quiting within a few months, which isn't good considering you've wasted all that money for buying exercise equipment that will sit in the corner collecting dust.

The most cheapest and easiest way to lose weight is by walking, jogging or running. All you need is a good pair of running shoes, a jogging suit (if you want one) and a water bottle. It is also nice to have an iPod or a MP3 Player to listen to music while your exercising. Or you can just use your cell phone. No matter what device you use to listen to tunes with, you're going to need a good pair of headphones, like the Jarba on Bestbuy.com.

The Jabra Sport Pulse Wireless is the ultimate wireless earbud headphones that will help boost your training to to the next level with its Military grade durability. This all-in-one headphones has an in-ear biometric heart rate monitor, immersive Dolby® Digital sound and a real-time voice coaching. As an added bonus, it has a built-in intelligent app called Jabra Sport Life, which can help runners, cyclisst and any exercisers to plan, track and evaluate your workouts. The app can also help you set your goals based on distance, time and calories burned. This is a great way to adjust your heart rate zone levels to optimize training.

Thursday, December 18, 2014

Holiday Gift Guide 2014: Graystone (The Darkwoods Series, book 3)




Graystone
The Darkwood Series, book 3
by Marta Stahlfeld
Publisher: Book Publisher Network
Pub. Date: November 20, 2014
Price: $16.95
ISBN: 978-1940598529
Pages: 269
Buy Link: Amazon
Description:

Book 3 of the Darkwoods Series! Treachery and Betrayal! Barely had the hard-fought battle against the Foxes of Darkwoods finished when a new evil began to grow-- an evil that would stretch from the royal Wraith Mouse city of Arashna all the way to the tiny village of Graystone. Dangerous river otter warriors kidnap two young mice and will only release them if Graystone gives up a mysterious wounded mouse sheltering behind their walls. When the mice at Graystone refuse and instead attack in a desperate attempt to free the hostages, the renegades flee north to collect the promised bounty for the wounded mouse, and to sell the Graystone mice and their sea otter allies into slavery. Hope for rescue depends on three young creatures who race against all odds to save their family and friends from the clutches of a new king -- a king who has turned against his own family in his greed to rule and grasp power. Shy and bookish, Miamuran Princess Nurida must overcome her fears and brave unknown dangers in the wild if she is to save her older sister. Nathan el of the Cliff Mice searches not only for his kidnapped sister and her friend, but also for his vanished mother, who may have stumbled across information for which powerful creatures would kill. Conch, the son of a sea otter and an infamous river otter, struggles to decide who he can trust to stand with his friends against the approaching onslaught. Stahlfeld s riveting third installment of her Darkwoods series vibrantly brings to life young creatures willing to place themselves in danger to save others. As they find help in unexpected places and discover their own strengths, they become the new leaders in the ongoing fight for freedom.


Billy's Thoughts:

Holiday Gift Guide 2014: Family Tree Maker 2014





Family Tree Maker 2014
by Ancestry.com, Inc
 Retail: $39.99 
Sale Price: $29.99
Buy Link. www.ancestry.com

Description:

With dozens of exciting new features and enhancements to simplify your tasks, Family Tree Maker version 2014 makes building and sharing your family tree easier than ever. Enjoy new Family View™ for a broader view of your tree and explore new enhanced charts and reports, including more print options. And the more robust and reliable TreeSync™ lets you sync your tree from your computer, tablet or smartphone, so you always know you’re accessing and sharing the very latest.



Billy's Thoughts:

Wednesday, December 17, 2014

DVD Review - Power Rangers Super Megaforce: Earth Fights Back



Power Rangers Super Megaforce: Earth Fights Back
Cast: Andrew M. Gray, John Mark Loudermilk, Azim Rizk
Studio: LionsGate / Saban Brands
Release Date: December 9, 2014
Retail: $14.98
ASIN: B00O2QWG28
Running Time: 92 minutes
Rating: Not Rated
Buy Link: Amazon

Description:

The Rangers transform into Legendary Rangers from the past to battle Earth's Ultimate threat!



Billy's Thoughts:

While the Power Rangers franchise is in-between series (seasons), fans young and old can grab their hands on the recently released Power Rangers Super Megaforce: Earth Fights Back, the first volume of this year's season, which just ended last month.

The DVD features four episodes:

Super Megaforce - The Armada has finally invaded and Earth and the only way the Megaforce Rangers can fight back is to upgrade their powers to access all the Legendary Power Rangers.

Earth Fights Back - As the Rangers help to rebuild the Angel Grove, Troy (the Red Ranger) must try to stop Cybax and the X Borgs before the Armada fires missiles onto all the major cities on Earth.

Blue Saber Saga - Noah (the Blue Ranger) must train himself to be a master swordsman in order to defeat Skatana.

A Lion's Alliance - The Megaforce Rangers hop aboard the Sky Ship on a race against time to find the Red Lion Wild Zord.


Super Megaforce picks up exactly where the final episode of Power Ranger Megaforce left off, where the alien Armada has finally arrived on Earth. Robot Knight has disappeared and the Megaforce Rangers are outnumbered. Luckily, Gosei gives the Megaforce Rangers access to all the Legendary Ranger Keys, which means they can morph into any past Ranger, which doesn't make a bit of sense as the majority of the former Power Rangers powers were destroy in past series, but I guess this a fantasy shows for kids, so all logic is tossed out the window. While both Megaforce series (seasons) received mixed feedback from fans, the Super Megaforce season is still fun watch.

Similar to other LionsGates' releases from the franchise, there are only 4 episodes on this DVD. I know that there will be complaints from older fans that there isn't a full season release, but you have to remember that the series is aimed towards children and not adults and buying a $10 DVD is cheaper than buying a season set.

While I had mixed feeling about the first series (season), I enjoyed the Super Megaforce season as it was more of a throwback to the original series and you get to see some of the old Ranger costumes again. Overall, Power Rangers Super Megaforce: Earth Fights Back features four action-packed episodes that the entire family can enjoy. It would make a great stocking stuffer this Christmas for any fan.


*Disclaimer - I received a complimentary copy in exchange for my honest review. All opinions are my own.

Review - Miracle In A Dry Season


Miracle in a Dry Season
by Sarah Loudin Thomas
Publisher: Bethany House
Pub. Date: August 5, 2014
ISBN: 978-0764212253
Pages: 304
Buy Link: Amazon

Review:

I'm trying my best to get caught up with writing reviews before Christmas Eve. I received Miracle in a Dry Season by Sarah Loudin Thomas a few months back and I'm just now getting around to writing the review for it.

The novel centers on Perla Long, along with her daughter Sadie, settling in the small town of Wise, West Virginia in 1954. She hopes they can keep their haunting past behind them and restart their lives without the two residents asking too many questions about them. The sleepy town is suffering from a long drought and the farmers are praying for rain, well, they're praying for a miracle. 

Perla never planned on falling in love again, but that is exactly what happened when she met Casewell Phillips. Once she confessed her past to him, he practically shuns her; judging her for her past sins. Despite being adjusted to his life as bachelor, he does care deeply for Perla and her daughter. It will take faith in the Lord to help guide Phillip to understand what Perla has been through.

Review - Stuck Together


Stuck Together
Trouble In Texas, Book 3
by Mary Connealy
Publisher: Bethany House
Pub. Date: June 3, 2014
ISBN: 978-0764209161
Pages: 320
Buy Link: Amazon

Review:

Several years back I had joined a book club where I was sent a new Christian romance once a month. This is when I was exposed to several new authors, including Mary Connealy. So as you can probably imagined I was excited to sign up to review the third installment in the Trouble In Texas series earlier this year. Though I did read the book, a few things came up and I haven't gotten around to writing this review until today.

Stuck Together centers on a Tina Cahill, a young woman who is determined to shut down the saloon in Broken Wheel at any cost, but her picketing outside the saloon hasn't gotten anybody's attention. Well, Vince Yates has noticed her protest, but he would rather not get involved in her self stuck pursuit.

Vince has enough trouble on his shoulders when his parents and sister that he never knew shows up in town looking of his help. His father is a schemer, his mother's health is failing and his sister is love struck with one of his best pals. Of course the one thing he doesn't need right now is to fall in love with Tina!

DVD Review - Bachata Dance Mastery System


Bachata Dance Mastery System
Studio: DancyCrazy.com
Release Date: April 24, 2007
Retail: $97.00
ASIN: B000P2XNK2
Running Time: 274 minutes
Rating: Not Rated
Buy Link: Amazon

Review:

As someone with two left feet, I have never heard of the dance called Bachata. After doing a quick Google search, I learned that it originated in the Dominican Republic and now the dance is used all over the world. Dancing has never been my thing, but I was looking for some low-impact exercises and became interested in learning how to dance.

For the last few days, I have been trying out the Bachata Dance Mastery System from DancyCrazy.com. This set features 3 different discs - Beginners, Intermediate and Advanced. There is a male and female instructors, whom give step-by-step instructions on how to Bachata, so if you don't know anything about dancing, like me, then you're good to go.


Tuesday, December 16, 2014

Holiday Gift Guide 2014: Night Buddies: Go Sky High



Night Buddies: Go Sky HIgh
by Sands Hetherington
Illustrated by: Jessica Love
Publisher: Dune Buggy Press
Pub. Date: March 2015
Price: $7.99

Description:

When young John Degraffenreidt and his red crocodile buddy Crosley show up at the Pineapple Cheesecake Factory and find Big Foot Mae lying on the floor, staring up at her Great Star Puzzle on the ceiling, they expect something's afoot. Crosley only wants a new supply of pineapple cheesecakes, but what Mae points to on her ceiling will start the Night Buddies on a totally new fantasy adventure.

A suspicious white dot has passed through the Corkscrew Constellation and is now moving underneath the Houndog Stars. Crosley's Brother Crenwinkle sees the same curious speck in the sky. It looks to be a long night for sleepyhead John, but thanks to the time spreader dingus with its sleep retrandant setting, he gets right into their next escapade. Join the Night Buddies as they embark on another Program, this time taking them all the way into the stratosphere in their newly modified personal racing blimp.


Billy's Thoughts:

Monday, December 15, 2014

Pumping Iron Digital HD Giveaway!



Everyone knows who Arnold Schwarzenegger is but do you know the whole story behind the man?

Now available available for the first time on digital HD download is the classic documentary Pumping Iron!

From Gold's Gym in Venice Beach California to the showdown in Pretoria, amateur and professional bodybuilders prepare for the 1975 Mr. Olympia and Mr. Universe contests in this part-scripted, part-documentary film.

Five-time champion Arnold Schwarzenegger defends his Mr. Olympia title against Serge Nubret and the shy, young, deaf Lou Ferrigno, whose father is his coach; the ruthless champ psyches out the young lion.

Sardinian Franco Columbu competes in the lightweight class; at home in Italy he solves a tight parking problem by lifting the car into place. Joe Weider is the marketer; Mike Katz and Ken Waller go for the title of Mr. Universe. Bodybuilding and a celebrity-to-be go mainstream.

Special Features:

  • Still Pumping: Success in bodybuilding is a mental challenge as well as physical. In these newly recorded interviews, Arnold Schwarzenegger talks about the will power and focus you need to become a champion, and the mental attitude that has shaped his career.
  • The Hard Science of Bodybuilding: Arnold Schwarzenegger and top bodybuilders give insights into the sport of bodybuilding and tips for building the body of your dreams. 

Pumping Iron (plus bonus content) Available Today: http://www.vudu.com/movies/#!content/611872/Pumping-Iron-plus-bonus-content

Review - Tinhorn's Daughter


 
Tinhorn's Daughter
by L. Ron Hubbard
Publisher: Galaxy Press
Pub. Date: October 20, 2014
ISBN: 978-1592123438
Running Time: 123 minutes
Buy Link: Audio, Paperback, Kindle

Review:
 
While audiobooks have been around for decades, I didn't really start listening to these types of books until I was introduced to the Stories from the Golden Age series from Galaxy Press. This series features the short stories from the 1930s and 1940s by author L. Ron Hubbard. Galaxy Press has been adapting these stories into audiobooks for a whole new generation to enjoy. The stories are also being released on Kindle and paperbacks.

The western audiobook Tinhorn's Daughter was released just a few a months back and features the voices of Nancy Cartwright (the voice of Bart Simpson), Corey Burton, R.F Daley, Jim Meskimen (who also directs) and Tait Ruppert. The two-disc audiobook also features the short story When Gilhooly Was In Flower.

Tinhorn's Daughter first appeared in the December 1937 issue of Western Romances and centers on a man named Sunset Maloney, who is trying to fight back against the cruel land-stealer Slim Trotwood in the Big Sky country of Montana. While Slim may look like just another gambler, he has been stealing the Puma Pass lan from the homeowners. Sunset is known for his fast shooting  and he plans on taking Slim down that is until he meets the tinhorn's daughter, Betsy. Now blinded by love for his enemy's daughter, his trail for justice will be a lot harder than he thought it would be.

Holiday Gift Guide 2014: Witch & Wizard: The Lost




Witch & Wizard: The Lost
by James Patteson and Emily Raymond
Publisher: Little Brown & Company
Pub. Date: December 15, 2014
Price: $18.00
ISBN: 978-0316207706
Pages: 384
Buy Link: Amazon

Description:

James Patterson brings the fifth and final book in the bestselling Witch & Wizard saga to a head by exposing the nature of power-and what it means for the heroes that have it.

Whit and Wisty Allgood have fought and defeated their world's most pernicious threats: the evil dictator, The One Who Is The One, as well as his wicked father and son. But just as the heroic witch and wizard start to settle into their new roles in governance, a deadly crime wave grips their city, with all signs pointing to a magical mastermind every bit as powerful and heartless as The One. Now the siblings find themselves persecuted as the city turns against all those who possess magic. They're questioning everything, including each other and their abilities. Can they confront the citizens' growing hostility and their own doubts in time to face the new enemy barreling toward their gates?


Billy's Thoughts:

Sunday, December 14, 2014

Review - Murder at the Mikado


Murder at the Mikado
A Drew Farthering Mystery
by Julianna Deering
Publisher: Bethany House
Pub. Date: July 1, 2014
ISBN: 978-0764210976
Pages: 366
Buy Link: Amazon

Review:

One of my guilty reading pleasures is reading Agatha Christie mystery novels, so I was more than exciting to read "A Drew Farthering Mystery" series by Julianna Deering, which the plots of her books are inspired by the mystery novels of the 1930s. After reading Rules of Murder and Death by the Book, I was more than excited to read the third installment, Murder at the Mikado. Technically, I did read the book back in July, but a few things came up and I never got around to writing the review. Therefore, I reread the book recently, so I could refresh my mind before writing this review.

Drew Farthering, a young man who loves a good mystery, is once again the main character. It seems that murder just follows him wherever he goes. His ex-actress-girlfriend, Fleur Landis, seeks his help. Though she is now retired from acting, she is still connected to her troupe's production of The Mikado. The star of the show has been murdered and Fleur happens to be the police's number one suspect, though she convinces Drew that she is innocent of the crime.

Review - A Bluebonnet Lake


A Bluebonnet Lake
Texas Crossroads Series
by Amanda Cabot
Publisher: Revell
Pub. Date: October 21, 2014
ISBN: 978-0800734343
Pages: 384
Buy Link: Amazon

Review:
 
I guess you can say that this week is going to be "review catch up week" for me in my attempt to finish to clear off  clear off all the books that are piled up on my desk before Christmas Eve, which isn't going to be an easy feat as there is less than 10 until  Dec. 24th.

A Bluebonnet Lake, book one in the Texas Crossroad series, arrived in bookstores back in October from Revell. As you can tell from the artwork, this has a contemporary setting. I'm more of a fan of historical settings, but I'm starting to like romances set in modern times.

The book centers on Kate Sherwood, a young woman who has taken the marketing world by storm. She finds herself checking into the Rainbow End, a Texas Hill Country resort! The last thing she ever wanted to do was to find herself in a place like this, but she made a promise to her grandmother that she would stay there. Fifty years back, her grandparents spent a a week at the resort and Kate promised her grandmother that she would visit the resort one day.

Review - Best of Bridge Holiday Classics


Courtesy of Bestof Bridge Holiday Classics by The Best of Bridge 2014 © www.robertrose.ca Reprinted with publisher 
permission.
Best of Bridge Holiday Classics
by The Editors of Best of Bridge
Publisher: Robert Rose
Pub. Date: October 17, 2014
Price: $29.95
ISBN: 978-0778804871
Pages: 306
Buy Links: Amazon

Description: 

Now available for the first time, the definitive collection of holiday recipes from the ladies of Best of Bridge.

For two decades thousands of families have made Best of Bridge recipes part of their holiday celebrations. These fans and new ones will enjoy the tried and true tradition of Christmas Morning Wife Saver on Christmas morning, Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes accompanied by Beef Tenderloin with Peppercorn Sauce for a dinner with family or company, and Chocolate Raspberry Truffle Squares for their neighborhood cookie exchange.

These classic recipes come from Best of Bridge fan favorites as well as new recipes which are sure to become instant holiday classics. The best holiday-worthy roasts and other special entrees for celebrations are here, along with fabulous recipes for holiday brunches and lunches, buffets and pot lucks, as well as festive libations and holiday cookies and squares.

What makes this collection extra special are the two chapters devoted to Leftovers and Food Gifts. Fortunately those sumptuous holiday repasts usually have leftovers. This handy chapter includes incredible recipes for transforming those unused portions into another delicious meal. Nothing says "happy holidays" more than a gift of home-made-from-scratch food. From homemade toffee to seasoned nuts and preserves the Bridge ladies provide a huge cache of gift giving ideas.

Billy's Thoughts:

Saturday, December 13, 2014

Review - Promise to Cherish by Elizabeth Blyer Younts



 
From Elizabeth Byler Younts, the author of Promise to Return, comes the exciting sequel, A Promise to Cherish, from Howard Books. I enjoyed reading the first book in the series, so I eagerly signed up to review the sequel. Unfortunately, a few things came up and I'm just now getting to writing this review.

A Promise to Cherish centers on a nurse named Christine Freeman, who is working as the member of the Civilian Public Service unit at the Hudson River State Hospital (a mental hospital) in 1945. After being sexually assaulted by an old acquaintance (Jack), she learns that she is pregnant. Too make matters worse, she is fired from her job. She tries to get help from her parents, but they just want to send her to a home for unwed mothers.

DVD Review - The Device


The Device
Director: Jeremy Berg
Starring: Angela DiMarco, David S. Hogan, Kate Alden
Studio: Image Entertainment
Release Date: December 16, 2014
Retail: $27.97
ASIN: B00NC9TSY0
Running Time: 90 minutes
Rating: Not Rated
Buy Link: Amazon

Review:

Arriving on DVD this Tuesday December 6, 2014 from Image Entertainment is the scifi-drama The Device. The film is directed by Jeremy Berg and stars Angela DiMarco, David S. Hogan and Kate Alden. Special Features include an audio commentary with the writers, producers and director Jeremy Berg, an audio commentary with the cast and an audio commentary by Tracy Torme, screenwriter of Fire In The Sky and Intruders.

The Device centers on sisters Abby (played by Angela DiMarco) and Rebecca (played by Kate Alden), who both returns to their family's cabin, a place they haven't been to since the time Rebecca disappeared when they were younger. They never planned on returning to the cabin, but at the request of their late mother, they have returned here to scatter their mother's ashes in the forest and the nearby lake.


The sisters discover strange markings on the ground, which they presumed was from some sort of crash years ago. Abby finds a mysterious black orb and takes it back to her fiance Calvin (played by David S. Hogan), who think it may bring them into lots of cash if they they sell it. They return home the next day along with Rebecca and odd occurrences begin to happen, all of which is connected to the strange orb. Bizarre dreams haunt the sisters and Calvin begins to act differently, almost if he is interacting with the orb. Could the orb be connected to extraterrestrial beings?

Review - Easy Everyday Slow Cooker Recipes


Courtesy of EasyEveryday Slow Cooker Recipes by Donna-Marie Pye, 2014 © www.robertrose.ca Reprinted with publisher permission.

Easy Everyday Slow Cooker Recipies
by Donna-Marie Pye
Publisher: Robert Rose
Pub. Date: June 26, 2014
Price: $24.95
ISBN: 978-0778804833
Pages: 352
Buy Link: Amazon
Description:

Whether cooking for two or serving a crowd, this book makes easy work of creating delicious, soul-satisfying slow cooker meals.

In this gorgeous, full-color book with more than 80 photographs, there are 200 recipes to explore and experiment with, featuring the best of North American regional cuisine, as well as globally inspired dishes from cultures around the world.

Each recipe is created with convenience in mind with a good balance of those that require a few extra minutes of preparation versus others where all the ingredients can be added at once.

Most of the recipes serve from four to eight people and can be adapted to every slow cooker size. There are also many recipes that will suit any family from chapters such as Meals for Two and Big-Batch Dinners. With a bit of advance planning the inspiring recipes in Double-Duty Dinners will turn tonight's dinner into tomorrow's feast, simultaneously banishing that dreaded remark, "...That again?"


Billy's Thoughts: