Delicious! By Ruth Reichl

Synopsis:
Billie Breslin has traveled far from her California home to take a job at Delicious, the most iconic food magazine in New York and, thus, the world. When the publication is summarily shut down, the colorful staff, who have become an extended family for Billie, must pick up their lives and move on. Not Billie, though. She is offered a new job: staying behind in the magazine's deserted downtown mansion offices to uphold the "Delicious Guarantee"-a public relations hotline for complaints and recipe inquiries-until further notice. What she doesn't know is that this boring, lonely job will be the portal to a life-changing discovery.

Delicious! carries the reader to the colorful world of downtown New York restaurateurs and artisanal purveyors, and from the lively food shop in Little Italy where Billie works on weekends to a hidden room in the magazine's library where she discovers the letters of Lulu Swan, a plucky twelve-year-old, who wrote to the legendary chef James Beard during World War II. Lulu's letters lead Billie to a deeper understanding of history (and the history of food), but most important, Lulu's courage in the face of loss inspires Billie to come to terms with her own issues-the panic attacks that occur every time she even thinks about cooking, the truth about the big sister she adored, and her ability to open her heart to love.

Raven Hair's Review:
I loved this book - the characters, the story lines, and all the luscious food descriptions. Not surprising given who the author is. And though many might find this too light weight it held my interest and I was disappointed to finish it as I hated to say goodbye to the characters. This book captivated me, it had my emotions running when we discover the hidden stories of the characters and how,  at times, unknowingly they provide strength and healing to each other.    

Good in Bed by Jennifer Weiner

My rating: 5 of 5 stars


I highly recommend this book. When I started reading it I thought it was just a fun, comedic book - I was wrong. There is so much to love about Cannie, and the author speaks to real issues in a way that isn't too deep, but definitely deep enough. I was touched by this story, and pleasantly surprised at depth interwoven in the story.



View all my reviews

Well, it's been some time since I've last visited and written anything on my blog. I have had SO much happen between then and now. I have gone through a divorce, remarried, had another child, and moved to Hawaii! I went through a time where I was extremely busy and preoccupied with other things so I stopped reading for awhile, but I am now returning to my books! I am hoping/planning to start blogging on a regular basis. I can tell you, I've definitely missed it A LOT!!!

Tempted

Synopsis: Dark secrets and unspoken suspicions come between Zoey and Stevie Rae, putting their friendship and the House of Night at risk. After Zoey Redbird and her gang have banished Kalona and Neferet from Tulsa, you'd think they'd catch a break. But with Zoey and her sexy warrior Stark both recovering from a brush with death, and the fledgelings struggling to deal with the fallout from Neferet's reign of terror, a break is just not in the forecast. Zoey is haunted by her confusing yet elemental connection with A-ya, the ancient Cherokee maiden who was the only human able to tempt Kalona's body and soul. How will A-ya's pull on her affect Zoey's ability to resist the dangerously seductive immortal? Meanwhile, Stevie Rae, with her super red-vamp powers, always thought she could handle the stuff she's been keeping from her BFF. But the mysterious, threatening force lurking in the tunnels under the Tulsa Depot is spreading. Stevie Rae won't confide where she's been and what she's doing, and Zoey is beginning to wonder just how much she can trust the person she always thought would have her back. Will their choices destroy them and will darkness consume the House of Night?

Raven Haired Book Worm's Review: Well, I am happy to write that I have FINALLY started back up with the House of Night series (I really don't like starting a series and not finishing it). It has taken me quite a while to come back. Thankfully, the public library had the next 3 books that I needed to read available. The House of Night series in the previous books were alright but I was somewhat losing interest; well Tempted brought me back. I am looking forward to reading the next (Burned) book to see what will happen with Zoey and Stevie Ray! In this book Stevie Ray has a shocking development with one of her relationships (I won't say because I don't want to spoil it for anyone). It did take a while for me to get to the point where I couldn't stop reading because I needed to know what was going to happen but this book did deliver that for me three-quarters of the way in (better late than never). In this book I Zoey really begins to start seeing the truth about her situation and in the end it ends up a harsh reality. I was not expecting this book to end the way it did, but I think it had to happen to really, really make Zoey make a choice and see the truth.

Returning Journey,

Melissa

Hex Appeal

Synopsis: Feisty witch Jasmine Tremaine and drop-dead gorgeous vampire cop Nikolai Gregorovich have a hot thing going, but it's tough to keep it together when nightmare visions turn their passion into bickering, and it's tearing them apart. With a little help from their friends - a motley bunch of ghosts with attitude, rule-breaking witches, supernatural hotties and sinister elves - Jazz and Nick are in a race against time to uncover whoever it is that's poisoning their dreams, and their relationship.

Raven Hair's Review:

This is the second book featuring the witch, Jazz. I must say I truly enjoy these books and Jazz's adventures. This book is definitely full of magic and fun! I don't want to ruin anything but let's just say Jazz has some awesome shoes! The book is fast-paced and humorous too. Jazz keeps it real throughout all her escapades. I love Linda Wisdom's imagination. If you are looking for a fun fast paced read, I definitely recommend this one.

An imaginative, magical journey,

Mel

WICKED

Synopsis: When Dorothy triumphed over the Wicked Witch of the West in L. Frank Baum's classic tale, we heard only her side of the story. But what about her arch-nemesis, the mysterious Witch? Where did she come from? How did she become so wicked? Gregory Maguire creates a fantasy world so rich and vivid that we will never look at Oz the same way again. Wicked is about a land where animals talk and strive to be treated like first class citizens, Munchkinlanders seek the comfort of middle-class stability, and the Tin Man becomes a victim of domestic violence. And then there is the little green-skinned girl named Elphaba, who will grow up to become the infamous Wicked Witch of the West - a smart, prickly, and misunderstood creature who challenges all our preconceived notions about the nature of good and evil.

OK, so I FINALLY finished the book "Wicked". I attempted to read this book awhile ago and put it down because I just couldn't get into it. I still wanted to read it though because I have a few friends that said it was a good one. I also liked the premise of the book, the story from the perspective of the wicked witch of the west. The idea behind the book is very enticing but the deliver (in my opinion) not so much. I must say this book took me so long to finish. I would begin reading at night and fall asleep while reading but I persevered and finally finished it. There are some things that the author just never explains and you keep reading waiting to read the why. Elphaba (the main character - the wicked witch) she has an aversion to water which is brought up throughout the book, but you never find out why this is the case. I won't say this is the worst book I've read but if given the choice between this book and another, well let's just say I would choose the latter. I have heard the play is amazing and different from the book, I am still hoping one day to be able to see it. If you've read this book, I would definitely like to hear your thoughts on it.

Longest journey yet!

I finished all the House of Night books except the last two. They are pretty good reads. I definitely enjoyed the first books more though. The stories start to take a somewhat bizarre twist and it seems that the main characters keep facing the same dilemmas but just with different people. I will definitely at some point finish the entire series. If I start a series I have a need to finish the entire thing even if I am not as in love with it during the follow on books. All in all pretty good story line and I would recommend it. I will update on this particular book series in the future when I get a chance to actually read all of the books out. I have visited the website and I know that they are definitely going to write more in the series. Take care all and thanks for taking the time to read my thoughts.

Unfinished Journey,

Mel

Well hello my fellow book lover friends, its been a while! Life got super busy for me, but I am going to attempt to start writing again soon. I have SO many books that I've read since my last posting so I will try and get all those reviews up in a matter of time. Take care all and keep on reading!

Mel

Betrayed

Review on "Betrayed" second book in the House of Night novels by P.C. and Kristin Cast.

Synopsis:

Fledgling vampire Zoey Redbird has managed to settle in at the House of Night. She’s come to terms with the vast powers the vampire goddess, Nyx, has given her, and is getting a handle on being the new Leader of the Dark Daughters, the school’s most elite group. Best of all, Zoey’s made some new friends and she finally feels like she belongs--like she really fits in. She actually has a boyfriend…or two. And despite the best efforts of her mother and step-loser John to humiliate her publicly during parent visitation, she’s earned the respect of her professors and High Priestess, Neferet.

Then the unthinkable happens: human teenagers are being killed, and all the evidence points to the House of Night, straining human-vamp tensions in Tulsa to a breaking point. While danger stalks the humans from Zoey’s old life, she finds herself drawn into an intoxicating forbidden flirtation that threatens to distract her from the growing crisis. Then, when she needs her new friends the most, death strikes the House of Night. Too late, Zoey begins to realize that the very powers that make her so unique might also threaten those she loves, and she must find the courage to face a betrayal that could break her heart, her soul, and jeopardize the very fabric of her world.

Raven Book Worm Review:

This series just gets more and more thrilling with each read! By the second novel you have to come to know and love Zoey and her great friends. This book is definitely a page turner. Very well written and keeps the pace up so that you just devour the book. Zoey's life starts to become even more tightly woven with trying to adjust to her change, deal with the special gifts she has been given and then her love life as well. Now she is in a position of leadership as well and has to learn how to lead a group when she is just a new fledgling. Once again a brilliantly written read.

Exciting Journey,

Mel D.

Marked

Review below is on the first book in the House of Night Novels "Marked" by P.C. and Kristin Cast.

Synopsis

Zoey Redbird learns that she is becoming a vampire, in this young adult novel by award-winning author P.C. Cast and her daughter, Kristin

Raven Book Worm Review:

This book I just loved, I couldn't put it down. This is also a YA read and as my previous blog post stated that is what I have been reading lately. I absolutely adore this whole series I am currently on the 4th book. Back to book 1 though.... Zoey is the main character in the books and this first book introduces you to her and to the House of Night. In this series the authors have created an actual school that all Marked teens have to go to as they make the transition to becoming a vampire. This takes you on Zoey's journey in life and her change. You see the acceptance of some of her new life and the disapproval of others that were involved in her previous life. I love Zoey's character because she is down to earth. I won't give away anything but to say that Zoey is special yet it doesn't go to her head and I really enjoy that about these novels. This is now one of my favorite books - up there with Twilight for me (which is saying a lot)! This first book introduces you also to Zoey's friends as well that are with her at the House of Night. A must read!!

Changing Journey,

Mel D.

Generation Dead

I haven't updated my blog lately and I really needed to, since the last update I have read two really great books! I have been really busy with kids, work and school but I am making a commitment to update my blog regularly. The read I am blogging on today is a actually a young adult read but it was a great one. Recently I have found myself really enjoying the books actually aimed for young adults, wonder what that says about me, LOL. This read is Generation Dead by Daniel Waters -

Synopsis

Phoebe Kendall is just your typical Goth girl with a crush. He's strong and silent.and dead.

All over the country, a strange phenomenon is occurring. Some teenagers who die aren't staying dead. But when they come back to life, they are no longer the same. Feared and misunderstood, they are doing their best to blend into a society that doesn't want them.
The administration at Oakvale High attempts to be more welcoming of the "differently biotic." But the students don't want to take classes or eat in the cafeteria next to someone who isn't breathing. And there are no laws that exist to protect the "living impaired" from the people who want them to disappear-for good.
When Phoebe falls for Tommy Williams, the leader of the dead kids, no one can believe it; not her best friend, Margi, and especially not her neighbor, Adam, the star of the football team। Adam has feelings for Phoebe that run much deeper than just friendship; he would do anything for her. But what if protecting Tommy is the one thing that would make her happy?

Raven Book Worm Review:

This book is a zombie theme read. Generally speaking most of my reads are about vampires (what can I say I have loved them since I was a young girl). This is my first zombie read and I adored it! The book is so well done you really feel a connection to the characters. Two of the main male characters (Tommy and Adam) I really liked and couldn't decide which one I would prefer to take the lead shall we say.... This book is a young adult read so I feel it was excellent in conveying the message to young people about acceptance of differences. It didn't just cover the acceptance of the "living impaired" but also of the students that were different from the majority of those in their school. This read also had an aspect of forgiveness in it as well showing that people can change. I really loved the ending of this read! The ending was so unexpected, Waters didn't just write what you expected to happen it was such a surprise. I love the fact that the ending caught me off guard and kept me wanting more. I didn't want it to end. I actually got out of bed and started looking to see if there were more books out or coming out. When I first picked this one up I had no idea that it was going to be a series at the time. Well, much to my great pleasure there is a second book out "Kiss of Life". I haven't read the second yet but I did buy it so I have it now to read! Waters did an excellent job of setting it up for the second book and tying it in wonderfully with the first - you want to know what happens and how they are adjusting. Yet again another nod to how well written these characters were and how they kept on developing throughout the read. Definitely recommend this one.

Unexpected Journey,

Mel D.

Inspire a LOVE of reading!

My oldest daughter Jaedyn has been staying with my dad ALL summer long and is coming back this weekend. I wanted to get her a welcome back crate to surprise her with in her room. I love reading and so does Jaedyn so I figured I should put some books in her present as well. I always try to encourage and inspire the love of reading to my kids!!! Hopefully she will enjoy the reads momma picked out.


Inspiring Journey,

Mel D.

Wicked Lovely

This blog post is on Wicked Lovely by Melissa Marr - Book Synopsis:

Rule #3: Don't stare at invisible faeries.

Aislinn has always seen faeries. Powerful and dangerous, they walk hidden in mortal world. Aislinn fears their cruelty—especially if they learn of her Sight—and wishes she were as blind to their presence as other teens.

Rule #2: Don't speak to invisible faeries.

Now faeries are stalking her. One of them, Keenan, who is equal parts terrifying and alluring, is trying to talk to her, asking questions Aislinn is afraid to answer.

Rule #1: Don't ever attract their attention.

But it's too late. Keenan is the Summer King who has sought his queen for nine centuries. Without her, summer itself will perish. He is determined that Aislinn will become the Summer Queen at any cost—regardless of her plans or desires.

Suddenly none of the rules that have kept Aislinn safe are working anymore, and everything is on the line: her freedom; her best friend, Seth; her life; everything.

Faerie intrigue, mortal love, and the clash of ancient rules and modern expectations swirl together in Melissa Marr's stunning 21^st century faery tale.

I thought this was a wonderful book. This is the first in the "Wicked Lovely" Series. This book was actually recommended to me by one of the ladies at the bookstore. It is considered a YA read. The book started out slow as far as the actual action of the storyline for me. Melissa Marr did a wonderful job though introducing you to the characters, even though it was slow you still had the desire to see what would happen between them. Towards the middle of the book the story really started picking up and towards the end I wasn't able to put the book down. I thoroughly enjoyed it! I tend to read a lot of vampire stories but I have always loved faeries. This was a nice change from my normal reading selections. These faeries had depth though, not just a little flying Tinkerbell (don't get me wrong I love Tinkerbell). Some of the faeries in the story weren't just mischevious they were down right cruel. Melissa Marr created a faery society in which you were introduced to an alternate world constantly in motion but invisible to the human eye (well most human eyes). I definitely recommend this book and I look forward to reading the follow on books in this series. Let me just tell you I loved the ending, I don't want to say anymore as I wouldn't want to ruin the read. Anyone else read the book? Please leave your comments or reviews, I would love to read them as well. If this review has inspired you to read this book, please come back and let me know what you thought of it.

Until Another Journey,

Mel D.

Kindle

The Amazon Kindle, I love it. Mimi (my girls' grandmother) mentioned the Kindle to me over FaceBook one day. I made a post on my wall about a book that I was reading, she replied asking me if I had a Kindle. Well at the time I had NO idea what a Kindle was, I had never heard of it before. After Mimi mentioned the Kindle to me I started doing some research and absolutely fell in love with the idea of the Kindle. My initial thought was that I wanted to get one for my fiance in Iraq, because it would be perfect for him. He would not have to wait for weeks to receive books that I mailed to him. The ability for him to just download them to his computer and then onto the Kindle. I told him about it and finally convinced him (at first he didn't want to spend the $$) that we needed to get him one. My Lou he knows me so well because as I was describing to him how "neat" I thought the Kindle was and how excited I was for him to get one he realized I would just LOVE to have one. Right then and there (we were on the computers chatting over The Amazon Kindle, I love it. Mimi (my girls' grandmother) mentioned the Kindle to me over FaceBook one day. I made a post on my wall about a book that I was reading, she replied asking me if I had a Kindle. Well at the time I had NO idea what a Kindle was, I had never heard of it before. After Mimi mentioned the Kindle to me I started doing some research and absolutely fell in love with the idea of the Kindle. My initial thought was that I wanted to get one for my fiance in Iraq, because it would be perfect for him. He would not have to wait for weeks to receive books that I mailed to him. The ability for him to just download them to his computer and then onto the Kindle. I told him about it and finally convinced him (at first he didn't want to spend the $$) that we needed to get him one. My Lou he knows me so well because as I was describing to him how "neat" I thought the Kindle was and how excited I was for him to get one he realized I would just LOVE to have one. Right then and there (we were on the computers chatting over Skype) he put in another order for a second Kindle to be sent to me! I was elated and he even topped it off with having it shipped next day, woo hoo!!!! Well of course you can imagine my next wall post on FaceBook (at the time I hadn't started blogging) yep all about my Kindle. I got the Kindle and I can honestly say I love it. I love the fact that if I finish up a book in a series and I want the next one (because it may not be convenient for me to head to the store- with kids or depending on the time of night) I can just order it and get it immediately! Don't get me wrong I still enjoy going to the bookstore shopping for books or to the library to check out books, but I love the options that the Kindle brings me. I recently downloaded a book recommended from one of the blog sites I follow and it was only $1.99 for the book, how great is that! You can also get samples of the books to see if it is something that you would even be interested in buying. To anyone out there that might be reading this and considering this purchase, I unequivocally 100% say YES, go for it, it's wonderful!!!!

Journey with Technology,

Mel D.