Thursday, April 30, 2015

Spring Reads: Buried Secrets


Buried Secrets
Men of Valor Series
by Irene Hannon
Publisher: Revell
Pub. Date: April 7, 2015
ISBN: 978-0800721268
Pages: 384
Buy Link: Amazon

Review:

Now available in bookstores this month is newest mystery thriller from bestselling author Irene Hannon, titled Buried Secrets. Besides from reading Deceived (book three in the Private Justice series), this author is fairly new to me. With an intriguing Murder She Wrote style cover, I was excited about reading it.

Buried Secrets centers on ex-Chicago homicide detective, Lisa Grant, whom is now living a simple life as a police chief in a small town. Well, life isn't as gentle as she thought it would be when a human skeleton is discovered at the edge of town by a construction crew. Homicides is something she had thought she had left behind in Chicago, but here she is trying to solve another murder. While Lisa is fully capable of taking on this case by herself, she must team up with another detective that has been sent to help her, the ex-Navy Seal Mac McGregor.

Mac had been looking to make a change in his life; longing for a family of his own, and the town life does catches his liking and so does the charming police chief. As Mac and Lisa investigates the murder, a spark between them ignites, just as buried secrets begin to emerge.

Spring Reads: A.D. The Bible Continues: The Revolution That Changed The World


A.D. The Bible Continues: The Revolution That Changed The World
by Dr. David Jeremiah
Pubisher: Tyndale Publishing
Pub. Date: April 14, 2015
ISBN: 978-1496407177
Pages: $16.99
Buy Link: Amazon

Review:

To tie-in with the NBC's limited series A.D. The Bible Continues, the sequel to History Channel's 2013 miniseries, The Bible), Tyndale Publishing released two book this month: A.D. The Bible Continues: The Book Of Acts and A.D. The Bible Continues: The Revolution that Changed The World. Both books are written Dr. David Jeremiah, author of Agents of the Apocalypse.

While the A.D. The Bible Continues: The Book Of Acts told the stories of Christ's apostles & followers, The Revolution That Changed The World also follows the Book Of Acts, but it's retold here to give a more detailed look on what Christ's disciples went through following Jesus' death and resurrection three day later. Dr. David Jeremiah gives a history lesson on what life was like back then, by exploring the political and religious upheal that eventually lead to the rise of the early church.

There are selective Bible verses throughout the book along with quotes from theologians and scholars. Similar to A.D. The Bible Continues: The Book Of Acts, there are small biographical segments.

Espresso Stack Cup Review


Well, it's probably no surprise to my regular blog readers to find me reviewing a coffee related product. If you're a big coffee lover like I am, then you probably don't have room for all the cups, mugs and tumblers that you've collected over the years.

Just a few days, I accidentally dropped one of my favorite mugs, shattering into dozens of pieces. I would replace it with a new one, but I didn't any even have the space for the old one.

Recently, I was sent one of the Espresso Stack Cup to test out. What exactly is an Espresso Stack Cup?

Well, it's a small Le Bleu Bean mug that fits inside a small LEGO-like storage box. The mug retails for $25, but is currently available on Amazon.com for $12.77. While the ceramic mug only comes in one color (white), the box comes in either black or white. The idea is that you can stack up every Espresso Stack Cup that you own; saving you space.


Where's Friday? - Insanity, Gossip Girl & the End of April!



I can't believe it's already Thursday and that it's the last day in April!

Where did the time go?

Oh, I've actually been busy all week writing reviews for this blog and trying to wrap up my first month of Insanity Max:30. Actually, I have three more days and I'll be finished with month one. While I haven't dropped one single pound on the scales, I have noticed a difference around my arms and chest. I should have took my measurements for starting the workout program, but I didn't.

Let me correct myself, I didn't get too many reviews written as I keep hopping over to YouTube and watching music videos, such as The Pretty Reckless, Halestorm and Dave Matthews Violinist Boyd Tinsley Serenades Grand Central Terminal!

Sunday, April 26, 2015

Matcha Tea Ceremony Gift Set by Matcha DNA Review



Many say that green tea is the healthiest beverage in the world due to the fact that it is loaded with antioxidants and nutrients! This can boost fat loss, lower the risks of cancer, improves brain function and many other healthy benefits.

About a month ago, I was sent the Matcha Tea Ceremony Gift Set by Matcha DNA to review!

The set includes:

1 - Beautiful Gift Box
1 - Handmade Matcha Tea Bowl/Cup (Chawan)
1 - Handcrafted Bamboo Tea Whisk (Chasen)
1 - Ceramic Matcha Whisk Holder
1 - Natural Bamboo Tea Spoon (Chashaku)
1 -1 oz bag of USDA Organic Matcha Green Tea Powder 




Styles II Fitness Massage Body Stick Roller Review


When I started 2015, my main priority was to get into shape, but I've had several setbacks, include a few muscle strains and a few colds. Now, there isn't much I can do from preventing myself from catching the cold or flu, but I can help get rid or even prevent muscle strains without having to go to an expensive chiropractor or a massage therapist.


Earlier this month, I was sent the Styles II Fitness Massage Body Stick Roller to try out. The roller is basically an 18 inch metal bar with seven white rollers and black rubber handles on each end.

The roller is an effective therapy tool for muscle strains, pains and trigger points. It helps break down soft tissue, increases blood flow and increases circulation.


Saturday, April 25, 2015

Blu-ray Review: Taken 3



Taken 3
Director: Olivier Megaton
Starring: Liam Neeson, Forest Whittaker, Maggie Grace, and Famke Janssen
Studio: 20th Century Fox Home Entertainment
Release Date: April 22, 2015
Retail: $39.99
ASIN: B00U0WY46O
Running Time: 109 minutes
Rating: PG-13
Buy Link: Amazon

Review:

Now available on Blu-ray, DVD and Digital HD is the action-packed Taken 3. Directed by Olivier Megaton, the film stars Liam Neeson, Forest Whittaker, Maggie Grace, and Famke Janssen. The Blu-ray features the both the theatrical version and the unrated cut (about 6 minutes longer). Extras include deleted scenes, gallery, Sam's Bunker A.K.A. The Rabbit Hole, Taken to L.A. and A Taken Legacy.

Liam Neeson returns once again as the ex-covert operative Bryan Mills, whom is now living in L.A. to be close to his daughter Kim (played by Maggie Grace). Despite the events that occurred in Taken 2, his ex-wife Lenore (played by Famke Janssen) has stayed married to Stuart St. John (now played by Dougray Scott); though she still has feeling for Bryan and vice versa.

After receiving a text form Lenore wanting to have breakfast at his apartment, Bryan is shell-shocked when he finds her dead in his bedroom. The LAPDs arrive to the scene quickly, but Bryan is one step of head of them as he uses his covert operative knowledge & skills to hunt down his ex-wife's murderer and clear his name.

Friday, April 24, 2015

Book Blogger Hop: April 24th - 30th

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!

Does the title of a book make or break your choice to read it?

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: 


  A snappy title can definitely get my attention, but if I don't care for the book cover blurb/synopsis, then I probably won't read it.

Linky List:

Spring Reads: The Inn at Ocean's Edge


The Inn at Ocean's Edge
A Sunset Cove Novel, book 1
by Colleen Coble
Publisher: Thomas Nelson
Pub. Date: April 14, 2015
ISBN: 978-1401690267
Pages: 336
Blog Tour: http://litfusegroup.com/author/ccoble
Buy Link: http://bit.ly/1PDMkED

Review:

I fell in love with the Christian fiction genre when I was in my early 20s and since then I've been exposed to many great writers, including one of my new favorite authors, Colleen Coble. While Colleen is known for her historical romances, this time around she is releasing a thrilling mystery, titled The Inn at Ocean's Edge

The novel centers on a young woman, Claire Dellamare, whom is heading to the Hotel Tourmaline on the island of Folly Shoals, Maine for a business meeting. Returning to this hotel is bringing back haunting memories for her. She was four-years-old when she disappeared from the hotel and mysteriously showed up a year later with a note pinned to her dress. The police were baffled by the mystery and Claire doesn’t remember where she was for the missing year.

Around the same time of Claire's disappearance in 1989, Luke Rocco's mother also vanished. Now fate has brought Luke back to Hotel Tourmaline and his path crosses with Claire, who begins to have flashbacks from her childhood. They decide to team up in the attempt to unravel the mystery, but doing so might just bring a murderer into their sights.

Thursday, April 23, 2015

Blu-ray Review: The Boy Next Door


The Boy Next Door
Director: Rob Cohen
Starring: Jennifer Lopez, Ryan Guzman, John Corbett, Ian Nelson & Kristen Chenoweth
Release Date: April 28, 2015
Retail: $34.98
ASIN: B00SS96CRK
Running Time: 91 minutes
Rating: R
Buy Link: Amazon

Review:

Arriving on DVD, Blu-ray and Digital HD on Tuesday April 28 is the intense thriller The Boy Next Door. Directed by Rob Cohen, the film stars Jennifer Lopez, Ryan Guzman, John Corbett, Ian Nelson and Kristen Chenoweth. Bonus Features include deleted scenes, The Making of The Boy Next Door and Feature Commentary with Director Rob Cohen.

Jennifer Lopez stars as Claire Peterson, a high school literature teacher, whom is recently separated from her cheating husband Garrett (played by John Corbett). Despite the fact that her best friend Vicky Lansing (played by Kristin Chenoweth) advises her to get a divorce, part of her is not ready to give up on her marriage. Well, that is until a nineteen-year-old, Noah Sandborn (played by Ryan Guzman), moves into the house across the street.

Ryan looks like a decent teenager that is taking care of his wheelchair-bound uncle. He quickly charms his way into Claire's life by befriending her shy teenage son Kevin (played Ian Nelson). Feeling depressed late one night, Claire makes the mistake of sleeping with Ryan!

The next morning she realizes that all it was was a one night stand, but Ryan wants more than that. He enrolls into her literature class and begins to stalk her. At first, Claire thinks it's just a simple crush that will go away, but she quickly realizes that Ryan has a dangerous obsession with her.

Review - Girls: Season 4





Now available on Digital HD is the entire 4th Season of the HBO critically-acclaimed series Girls. Produced by Judd Apatow (Knocked Up, This Is 40), the series stars Lena Dunham (whom also created the series), Allison Williams, Jemima Kirke, Zosia Mamet and Adam Driver.

The series follows twenty-something aspiring writer Hannah Helene Horvath (played by Lena Dunham), whom is financially cut off from her parents after she graduates college. With the support of her friends Marnie Marie Michaels (played by Allison Williams), Jessa Johansson (played by Jemima Kirke) and Shoshanna Shapiro (played by Zosia Mamet), she awkwardly tries to make a life of her own; only to stumble along the way.

Season 4 takes things in a new direction with Hannah leaving New York to get her MFA in Iowa; leaving her boyfriend Adam (played by Adam Driver) and her friends behind. Marnie continues her affair with Desi (Ebon Moss-Bachrach), who's girlfriend (played by Natalie Morales) is starting to suspect there is something between them. Shoshanna is finally graduating college and she has a hard time finding a job. Despite going to AA, Jessa still has many personal problems to overcome.

The ten episodes includes:

Wednesday, April 22, 2015

Spring Reads: Beauty's Kingdom


Beauty's Kingdom
by Anne Rice
writing as A.N. Roquelaure
Publisher: Viking
Pub. Date: April 21, 2015
ISBN: 978-0525427995
Pages: 368
Buy Link: Amazon

Review:

Anne Rice is known for blood thirsty Vampire Chronicles novels and the bewitching Mayfair Witches, but she also wrote the Sleeping Beauty trilogy under the pseudonym A. N. Roquelaure. Now the trilogy wasn't a Disney fairy tale, as the author put an erotic twist to the story. It's been 30 years since the third book, Beauty's Release, was published and now Anne Rice has returned to her erotic BDSM world with the long awaited sequel Beauty's Kingdom.

Beauty's Kingdom takes place 20 years after the trilogy. Queen Eleanor is presumed dead, leaving Beauty and her prince, Laurent, to take control of the kingdom. Beauty's plan is to continue the same sensual surrender that made Queen Eleanor's reign a legend, but with a slight twist - all erotic servitude must be voluntary only.

While the new kingdom's rules might be shocking to some, others (princes, princesses, lords, etc.) travel across the lands to witness and participate in the erotic paradise.

Monday, April 20, 2015

The Marine 4: Moving Targets Blu-ray Giveaway

Twentieth Century Fox Home Entertainment and WWE Studios present the latest installment of the popular franchise The Marine as THE MARINE 4: MOVING TARGET arrives on Digital HD now and on Blu-ray, DVD and VOD April 21.


Enter to win a Blu-ray copy of THE MARINE 4: MOVING TARGET below and take a look back at some of the most popular wrestlers with careers in film and television.

Michael Gregory Mizanin/The Miz


WWE’s Michael Gregory "Mike" Mizanin, first gained fame as a cast member on MTV's The Real World: Back to New York, which first aired in 2001, and its spinoff series, Real World/Road Rules Challenge.

Hulk Hogan

One of the most famous wrestlers of all time, Hulk Hogan has also dedicated some of his time to making movies. He was part of numerous movies in the ‘80s and ‘90s like Rocky III, 3 Ninjas: High Noon at Mega Mountain, and Suburban Commando. From 2005 through 2007, Hogan had his own reality show that introduced him to a new generation.

Dwayne Johnson/The Rock

We cannot start off a list of wrestlers-turned-actors without naming Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson. With his handsome good looks, physicality, and charming and kind personality, an acting career came easily to Dwayne Johnson. He has built a successful career (and an extremely supporting fanbase) from films such as The Mummy Returns, G.I. Joe: Retaliation, Fast Five and Fast & Furious 6, Pain and Gain, and Hercules.

John Cena/Mr. P

Apart from a prolific career in the wrestling world, John Cena is also an actor and rapper who has been described as “the face of the WWE for a long time.” He has starred in several feature films such as The Marine and 12 Rounds.

Spring Reads: Not Cool


Not Cool
The Hipister Elite And Their War On You
by Greg Gultfield
Publisher: Crown Forum
Pub. Date: March 17, 2015
ISBN: 978-0804138550
Pages: 272
Buy Link: Amazon

About the Book:

Behind every awful, dangerous decision lurks one evil beast: the Cool.  

From politics to the personal, from fashion to food, from the campus to the locker room, the desire to be cool has infected  all aspects of our lives. At its most harmless, it is annoying. At its worst, it is deadly, on a massive scale.  The Cool are the termites of life, infiltrating every nook and cranny and destroying it from within. The Cool report the news, write the scripts, teach our children, run our government—and each day they pass judgment on those who don’t worship at the altar of their coolness.  The cool fawn over terrorists, mock the military, and denigrate employers. They are, in short, awful people.

From what we wear and what we eat, to what we smoke and who we poke, pop culture is crafted and manipulated by the cool and, to Greg Gutfeld, that's Not Cool.

How do the cool enslave you? By convincing you that:
- If you don't agree with them no one will like you.
- If you don't follow them you will miss out on life.
- If you don't listen to them you will die a lonely loser

How do you vanquish the cool and discover your own true self? Read this book.


Review:

I tend to ignore political-humor titles as they don't really intrigue me; however, I do occasionally catch a few minutes of The Five on the Fox News Channel, which the author, Greg Gutfield, here happens to be one of the hosts. That being said, I thought I would give his newest book, Not Cool, a try.

Saturday, April 18, 2015

DVD Review: The Cobbler


The Cobbler
Director: Tom McCarthy
Starring: Adam Sandler, Cliff "Method Man" Smith, Ellen Barkin, Melonie Diaz, Dan Stevens
Studio: Image Entertainment
Release Date: May 12, 2015
Retail: $27.97
ASIN: B00T6QFMUW
Running Time: 98 minutes
Rating: PG-13
Buy Link: Amazon

Review:

While funnyman Adam Sandler hasn't impressed film critics with his acting abilities (minus Punch-Drunk Love) or any of the comedies he releases yearly, he still has a loyal fan base. For some odd reason, the 2014 comedy-drama The Cobbler flew under the radar; only appearing at the 2014 Toronto International Film Festival before receiving a very limited release in theaters last month.

Directed by Tom McCarthy (The Station Agent), the film centers on a bored shoe repairman, Max Simkin (played by Adam Sandler), whom took over the family's business when his father (played by Dustin Hoffman) walked out on his mother years ago. Max's only friend is the next-door barber, Jimmy (played by Steve Buscemi).

After the electric stitching machine breaks down, Max has no other choice but to use the old-fashioned stitching machine that once belonged to his grandfather. While waiting on his customer (played by Cliff "Method Man" Smith) to pick up the shoes, Max gets bored and slips the shoes on his feet, which leads to a startling revelation - he can transform to look like his customers!

Friday, April 17, 2015

Book Blogger Hop: April 17th - 23rd

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!

Ending a book I loved is sad and beginning a new one is apprehensive for me. What about you?

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: 

It all depends on how emotionally connected I am to the characters. Though I never get sad about a book, I have been somewhat disappointed when a good book series ends. Then again, I can always reread the book(s).
 

Linky List:

Thursday, April 16, 2015

6 Cheap Ideas for Family Weekend Fun





As the long weeks of the year become more and more stressful, every family looks forward to letting lose and relaxing on the weekends. Most families want to get outside of the house and enjoy all of the great activities their city has to offer.

Even though this lifestyle sounds ideal, families who are trying to save money or work with a small budget might find this mentality a little difficult to maintain. Here are six cheap ideas for family weekend fun that everyone can enjoy in any city on any budget.

Try out a new TV series

Watching TV is typically the boring activity that families do when they cannot think of anything else to do. It seems so boring often times because families will watch the same TV shows over and over again. To switch things up while still doing something relaxing, families can watch weekend reruns of a new TV show from California TV packages that will make things more interesting.

Take a bike ride

Getting outside and enjoying the fresh air is always a weekend activity that families look forward too. Instead of paying a lot of money to go to an amusement park or other expensive place, families can hit the local trails and enjoy a family bike ride or hike together. Stop wherever the kids want to play and explore the great outdoors.

Learn something new at a museum

Learning does not have to halt on the weekends just because school is out. Parents can keep the good habits going by taking their kids to a museum. Many small locations have low admission prices and allow families to explore and learn at their own pace.

Attend a community education workshop

Most local communities will have a seasonal calendar of events that are open to the general public. These little classes can range from anything like a beginner’s yoga class to a workshop in pottery. Families can choose what interests them and sign up for a fun and inexpensive weekend day.

Wednesday, April 15, 2015

DVD Review - Power Rangers Super Megaforce: The Perfect Storm



Power Rangers Super Megaforce: The Perfect Storm
Starring: Andrew M. Gray, John Mark Loudermilk, Azim Rizk
Studio: LionsGate / Saban Brands
Release Date: April 14, 2015
Retail: $14.98
ASIN: B00T94R4FW
Running Time: 115 minutes
Rating: Not Rated
Buy Link: Amazon

Review:

Now available to own on DVD and Digital Copy is Power Rangers Super Megaforce: The Perfect Storm, featuring five exciting episodes from Super Megaforce season that aired on Nickelodeon last year. There are no extras or special features!

Power Rangers Megaforce debuted on Nickelodeon in early 2013 as part of the Power Rangers 20th anniversary celebration. The series centered on five teenagers (Troy, Noah, Emma, Gia and Jake), whom are all given powers from the supernatural guardian Gosei, so they'll be able to protect Earth from an alien invasion. Season Two was renamed Super Megaforce and had the Rangers receiving upgrades; giving them ability to transform into any past ranger. With the help of the sixth Ranger, Orion, the Rangers continue their quest to protect Earth.

The episodes include:

Power of Six - After an energy-draining monster, Skeltox, attacks the rangers, Orion must access his new powers that will give him the ability to use all the past sixth rangers' powers!

The Perfect Storm - The Rangers search for the missing Tensou, who has amnesia.

Love Is In The Air - Jake has major problems when a love spell makes Levira fall in love with him.

Tuesday, April 14, 2015

Spring Reads: A.D. The Bible Continues: The Book Of Acts


A.D. The Bible Continues: The Book of Acts 
by Dr. David Jeremiah
Publisher: Tyndale Publishing
Pub. Date: April 14, 2015
ASIN: 978-1496407184
Pages: 184
Buy Link: Amazon.com

Review:

Arriving in bookstores today is the religious book, A.D. The Bible Continues: The Book of Acts by Dr. David Jeremiah, which ties in with the NBC's event series, A.D. The Bible Continues (the sequel to History Channel's 2013 miniseries, The Bible), that airs on Sunday nights.

While the Bible is the #1 bestselling book in the world, not everyone has read it and some people have a hard time following it. The author of the Book of Acts was never referred to, though many experts is pretty sure that Luke, a companion apostle Paul, was the author; written around 61-64 A.D.

The NBC miniseries began with the crucifixion of Christ and his resurrection three days later, which inspired his disciples to spread the Word of God across the lands.This book rewrites the Book Of Acts into a story-style formula (taken from the The New Living Translation of the Holy Bible), so readers can have a better understanding of what life was like for the Jesus' apostles after his resurrection.

Throughout the book there are one-page biographies of the apostles and disciples, such as Peter, Luke, Mary Magdalene and many others; profiling their strengths and weaknesses. The book also features 8 pages of photos from the miniseries.

Monday, April 13, 2015

Spring Reads: A Heart's Obsession


A Heart's Obsession
Journey of the Heart, Book Two
by Colleen Coble
Publisher: Thomas Nelson
Pub. Date: April 7, 2015
ISBN: 978-0718031657
Pages: 103
Blog Tour: http://litfusegroup.com/author/ccoble
Buy Link: http://bit.ly/1PsjoPR

Review:

One of my favorite Christian authors is Colleen Coble, whom just released the second installment in her new 6-part series, Journey of the Heart, titled A Heart's Obsession.

Book One, A Heart's Disguise, left Sarah Montgomery in dismay as her thought-to-be-dead love, Rand Campbell, returned home with caused several issues for her suitor Ben Croftner, especially since Ben told everyone that Rand died in the war. Despite everything, Rand wanted her to go with him to Wyoming, but she denied his request. Feeling hurt and rejected, Rand leaves for Fort Laramie and promises himself that he'll never love again.

After tragedy strikes, Sarah and her younger brother Joel are left in the hands of their older brother Wade, who has major anger issues. Fearful of what will happened to Joel if they stay, Sarah packs their bags and takes Joel to Fort Laramie in the hope that she can patch things up with Rand. Shockingly upon arriving, Sarah learns that Rand is already engaged to another woman, but she isn't ready to give up just yet. Until Rand is officially married, she'll find a way to win back his heart.

Friday, April 10, 2015

Book Blogger Hop: April 10th - 16th

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!

Have you ever received a bound galley from a publisher for review? What did you think about it? Were you surprised at anything?

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: 

 I've received several bound galleys over the years. I can't recall the name of the book or the author, but I believe the first one I was sent was a Harlequin book. I don't recall what the book was about.
 

Linky List:

Thursday, April 9, 2015

Blu-ray Review: The Rewrite


The Rewrite
Director: Marc Lawerence
Starring: Hugh Grant, Marisa Tomei, Bella Heathcote, J.K. Simmons, Chris Elliot
Studio: Image Entertainment
Release Date: March 31, 2015
Retail: $29.97
ASIN: B00RDCMR9U
Runing Time: 107 minutes
Rated: Not Rated
Buy Link: Amazon

Review:

Now available to own on DVD & Bluu-ray from Image Entertainment is The Rewrite. Directed by Marc Lawerence (Music & Lyrics and Two Weeks Notice), the film stars High Grant, Marisa Tomei, Bella Heathcote (Dark Shadows), J.K. Simmons, Chris Elliott and Alison Janney.Special Features include The Making of "The Rewrite" and deleted scenes.

The Rewrite centers on a washed-up screenwriter, Keith Michaels (played by High Grant), who has had a rough time trying to write a decent script ever since he won an Academy Award for Best Screenplay in 1998. He's now divorced and is estranged from his son, which he hasn't been in contact with in quite some time. All of his new movie pitches keep getting rejected and his bank account is almost empty.

His agent recommends that he takes a teaching job at Binghamton University in upstate New York. Teaching is the one thing that he has never wanted to do, but until he can come up with a great idea for a new script, he is stuck with this new job.

Upon arriving, Keith meets Dr. Lerner (played by J.K. Simmons), who informs him that he'll have to be choose which students he wants to participate in his screenwriting classes and of course he mostly picks out the cute, young female students, including Karen (played by Bella Heathcote), whom he slept with the night before.

Wednesday, April 8, 2015

DVD Review - Bad Asses On The Bayou (2015)


Now available to own on DVD is the action-comedy sequel Bad Asses On The Bayou. Directed by Craig Moss (Bad Asses), the film stars Danny Trejo, Danny Glover, John Amos, Loni Love. The only Special Feature is Behind the Scenes of Bad Asses on the Bayou.

After stopping a bank robbery, Frank Vega (played by Danny Trejo) and his best friend Bernie Pope (played by Danny Glover) become an internet sensation. Out of the blue, they receive a call from an old friend Carmen (played by Loni Love), inviting them to her wedding in Louisiana. Despite Bernie's objections, they pack their bags and head for the Bayou.

Shortly after arriving, Carmen is kidnapped and Frank & Bernie promises her father (played by John Amos) that they will find her. Using their old school methods, Frank & Bernie turns the South upside down as they search for Carmen.

Monday, April 6, 2015

Monday Morning Madness #55: Insanity Max, The Third Dollanganger Flick & The Return of Outlander

Yes, once again, I'm a little late with this post! I've been busy for most the day and this post just kinda slipped my mind. I started out this morning with my first workout in the Insanity Max 30 program (yes, I'm actually trying this). No, I didn't pay full price (which is way over $100), but instead I purchased it on eBay at less than half the price. I was worried that I would have problems with my knees or get a few blood clots or something, but I made it through the workout just fine. Actually I maxed out at 7:01, which I've heard is good for a first-timer.

Later, I read the second book in the Journey of the Heart series (A Heart's Obsession) by Colleen Coble, which I'll be posting my review on here around the 10th. Then the rest of the day, I was just busy with other things. However, I did have time to watch the first episode of A.D. The Bible Continues on On Demand, but I wasn't too impressed with it.

Did anyone watch the return of Outlander? While I did like the episode, I think Starz could of toned down the sex scene. I was planning on reading the book before the last half of the season started, but I was too busy last week with spring cleaning, so I'm only about half way through it. Maybe I can finish it this month!

Saturday, April 4, 2015

Blu-ray Review: Outcast



Outcast
Director: Nick Powell
Starring: Hayden Christensen, Nicholas Cage
Studio: Entertainment One
Release Date: March 31, 2015
Retail: $29.99
ASIN: B00QJAZ4J2
Running Time: 98 minutes
Rated: Not Rated
Buy Link: Amazon

Review:

Now available to own on DVD & Blu-ray from Entertainment One is the action-packed adventure Outcast. Directed by Nick Powell, the film Stars Hayden Christensen (Star Wars II & III), Nicholas Cage (National Treasure 1 & 2), Lou Eiffel, Jo Kr Jun Y and Andy On. Special Features includes Interviews with Cast & Crew, Making of "Outcast" and the Theatrical Trailer.

The film center on a former Crusader fighter Jacob (played by Hayden Christensen), who is struggling to get over the war, but he must come to terms with his past when he comes across two Chinese siblings, Lian (played by Liu Yifei) & Zhao (Bill Su Jiahang), in dire need of his help. Their father has been murdered by their ruthless brother, Shing (Andy On), whom wants to take the throne for himself, though his youngest bother, Lian, is suppose to be the new ruler of the kingdom.


Jacob makes it his personal mission to protect Lian and Zaho from Shing and his army, but to save them, he must rely on an old friend - the mysterious outlaw known as The White Ghost (played by Nicholas Cage).

Friday, April 3, 2015

Book Blogger Hop: April 3rd - 9th

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!

Is there one book you will NEVER forget?

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: 

  The Shining by Stephen King
Comes The Blind Fury by John Saul
Suffer the Children by John Saul
Six-Horse Hitch by Janice Holt Giles
Animal Farm by George Orwell
To Kill A Mockingbird by Harper Lee
 

Linky List:

DVD Review & Giveaway: Uncle Grandpa: Good Mornin'



Uncle Grandpa: Good Mornin'
Voice Cast: Pete Browngardt, Adam DeVine, Kevin Michael Richardson, Eric Bauza
Studio: Cartoon Network
Release Date: April 7, 2015
Retail: $$14.97
ASIN: B00SJFV74G
Running Time:132 minutes
Rating: TV-PG
Buy Link: Amazon

Review:

Arriving on DVD this Tuesday from Cartoon Network is Uncle Grandpa: Good Mornin', featuring 12 exciting episodes from the hit animated series. There are no special features or extras on the disc.

Created by Peter Browngardt, Uncle Grandpa (which is a spinoff of Secret Mountain Fort Awesome) is the uncle and grandpa of everyone in the world. He travels around in a RV visiting children, which normally leads him into some sort of weird adventure. Each episodes runs between 8 to 9 minutes followed by a 2 to 3 minutes short.

The episodes on the DVD are:

Brain Game (Season 1: Episode 15)
Moustache Cream (Season 1: Episode 5)
Nickname (Season 1: Episode 6)
Locked Out (Season 1: Episode 13)
Mystery Noise (Season 1: Episode 16)

Wednesday, April 1, 2015

Review - All Hail King Julien


Fans of DreamWorks' animated Madagascar franchise will have to wait until 2018 for next fourth feature film, but in the meantime they look forward to seeing five brand-new episodes from DreamWorks Animation's Netflix original series All Hail King Julien that will premiere on April 3rd.

Set prior to the original Madagascar film, All Hail King Julien centers on the selfish, party-loving ring-tailed lemur named King Julien XIII (voiced by Danny Jacobs), whom doesn't take the leadership of a kingdom very seriously. Even his big-boned Aye Aye adviser Maurice (voiced by Kevin Michael Richardson) and his new bodyguard Clover (voiced by India de Beaufort) can't stop his crazy antics.

These five new episodes are:

Eat Pray Love
He Blinded Me With Science
Viva Mort
The Really Really Big Lie
One More Cup

King Julien is ready to rule with an iron fist … waving in the air, like he just doesn’t care! Photo: DreamWorks Animation All Hail King Julien © 2014 DreamWorks Animation LLC. All Rights Reserved.

Writing Tips Wednesdays: 5 Common Grammar Mistakes You're Probably Making


If you’re a writer (and today, everyone is a writer to some extent), you probably know at least the very basics of grammar. All sentences should have a subject and a verb, for example.

However, did you also know that even the best of writers often fall into these grammar traps? Find out 5 common grammar mistakes everyone makes and how to fix them below:

“There Are” Sentences

There are 14 cows in the field. There are 12 birds. There are eight ways to tie your shoe.

All of these sentences start with “there are” and all of the sentences are boring. Sure, “there are” is an accurate statement in many cases, but too much use of the phrase sounds lazy and boring. Even if there are 14 cows in the field, try to make the sentence a little more exciting. “14 cows stood in a single line in farmer Jo’s field” is a more interesting sentence.

Neglecting Commas

Some writers are not sure when to use commas, so they avoid them altogether. This becomes a problem when you have a sentence like: before the students arrived the teacher cleaned the desks washed the windows and straightened the chairs. Your brain doesn’t know how to arrange the sentence, so you feel weird while reading it. Put the commas where they belong. Before the students arrived, the teacher cleaned the desks, washed the windows, and straightened the chairs.

Lose/Loose

Did you lose your loose change? Go find it then. I find this is normally a typo error, but it still is important to remember. Lose means to misplace, loose means not tight.


Parallel Errors

When you make a list, all of the verbs should agree. The kids washed the windows, drove to the store, to eat candy in the parking lot. This makes your brain hurt a bit, which should be avoided, if possible. Change that to eat to ate, and you’re good. Try to end all words with the same modifier, such as by using all “ing” words, or “ed” words.


Passive Voice Only

Passive voice is the use of “to be” verbs. Instead of the subject doing the action, the subject is being acted upon by something else.

This is passive: The paper was signed by all the children.
This is active: All the children signed the paper.

 Passive writing sounds sluggish and boring. You can’t always avoid passive voice, but try to keep it to a minimum.



What common grammar mistakes do you make most often? 

Didn't see your grammar error here? Find 10 more common grammar errors here.

Brenda is a fellow book-lover and coffee-addict. She is a freelance writer, punctuation nerd, and grammar enthusiast. Her favorite book genres are Science Fiction, Fantasy with a Twist, and Dystopian. Brenda blogs about books, writing and more at Daily Mayo. Find her here on CaW for Writing Tips Wednesdays the first Wednesday of every month.

Follow Brenda on Facebook and Twitter or subscribe to updates from Daily Mayo to keep up with all the exciting things in her life; ranging from drinking coffee to get through the day to drinking coffee just for fun.

Spring Reads: Strong Is The New Skinny



Strong Is The New Skinny
by Jennifer Cohen & Stacey Colino
Publisher: Harmony Books
Pub. Date: September 16, 2014
ISBN: 978-0804140515
Pages: 240
Buy Link: Amazon

Review:

Wow! I can hardly believe that it is already April 1st today! I guess time flew by while I've been busy with life. I recall receiving the book Strong Is The New Skinny by Jennifer Cohen & Stacey Colino back in December, but it got shoved aside and I'm just now writing the review for it.

Yes, I'm well aware that there are a slew of fitness books on the market that all claim to help you lose weight. I tend to avoid these types of books, but since I'm in a fitness kick this year, I decided to give this book a try.

While this books is intended for woman, there is plenty of great fitness information and exercises that men (like me) can also benefit from. There is a great diet plan that focuses on the best food that will give you the correct amount of nutrients and protein. The book features over 100-pages of exercise routines with pictures and descriptions, which mixes in light-weight lifting, aerobics, yoga and Pilates.