Merry Christmas Everyone!

 

ONE AND ALL!

 For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.- John 3:16

Divergent by Veronica Roth

Description:

In Beatrice Prior's dystopian Chicago world, society is divided into five factions, each dedicated to the cultivation of a particular virtue--Candor (the honest), Abnegation (the selfless), Dauntless (the brave), Amity (the peaceful), and Erudite (the intelligent). On an appointed day of every year, all sixteen-year-olds must select the faction to which they will devote the rest of their lives. For Beatrice, the decision is between staying with her family and being who she really is--she can't have both. So she makes a choice that surprises everyone, including herself.

During the highly competitive initiation that follows, Beatrice renames herself Tris and struggles alongside her fellow initiates to live out the choice they have made. Together they must undergo extreme physical tests of endurance and intense psychological simulations, some with devastating consequences. As initiation transforms them all, Tris must determine who her friends really are--and where, exactly, a romance with a sometimes fascinating, sometimes exasperating boy fits into the life she's chosen. But Tris also has a secret, one she's kept hidden from everyone because she's been warned it can mean death. And as she discovers unrest and growing conflict that threatens to unravel her seemingly perfect society, Tris also learns that her secret might help her save the ones she loves . . . or it might destroy her.

My Opinion:

My. Oh. My.
This was an extremely captivating book and had me hooked from the very beginning. I have never read anything like it! The thought of everyone in our society being broken up into 5 factions that they would devote their lives to outstands me. I had heard about the concept of this book, but never really cared or thought it was that important until I dived in.

"Faction before Blood."- That is what everyone lived by. In their society, the families were not the most important thing. They were to obey, respect, and breath their faction. Nothing and no one else really mattered. So, for someone at the age of 16 to change factions was basically betrayal. Betrayal to their family, but more importantly, everyone they knew. This interested me because our society is definitely not like that, always in my mind family has come first, but what would it be like if it were different?

Their society didn't used to be like that either, but after years of living in their kind of government it became a competition. Who had the best faction? Which would get the most new-initiates? 

This ultimately lead to control. Which faction had the most control? Power?

Then, on top of that is a whole other issue. The Divergents. I'm not going to go into that though because I don't want to give anything away. All I'm going top say is that it's pretty cool!

On another note this book was clean. No Sex, but it does mention the topic sometimes and their are some extreme make-out sessions. I would recommend this to older teens+, no one younger than 17.

P.S. You know you're into a book when you're walking through the grocery store and categorizing what factions people would be in based on what they are wearing. Apparently today I am Abnegation! :)

***Check out my last post***

My last post was a (male) character casting for a series called River of Time by Lisa Bergren. I casted 3 male characters based on what actors/celebs I thought could portray them if it was ever a movie! Click HERE to go to the post and check out some Hotties!

Also, click HERE to see my pinterest board for the book series!

Thank you for visiting, and Merry Christmas!!!

Fancy Friday- The River of Time series *MALE* character casting

SO, for this week I have decided to take a break from updates on the ABC show Once Upon a Time. I have recently decided on the three men I would choose to pick Marcello, Lord Greco, and Luca from the River of Time series by Lisa Bergren. If you have not read this series I HIGHLY recommend it! It is one of my favorites! Here is a little back ground summary of the first three books.

Book #1: Waterfall
 Most American teenagers want a vacation in Italy, but the Betarrini sisters have spent every summer of their lives among the romantic hills with their archaeologist parents. Stuck among the rubble of the medieval castles in rural Tuscany, on yet another hot, dusty archaeological site, Gabi and Lia are bored out of their minds...until Gabi places her hand atop a hand-print in an ancient tomb and finds herself in fourteenth-century Italy. And worse yet, in the middle of a fierce battle between knights of two opposing forces.

Suddenly Gabi's summer in Italy is much, much more interesting.

  Book #2: Cascade
Gabi knows she’s left her heart in the fourteenth century and she persuades Lia to help her to return, even though they know doing so will risk their very lives. When they arrive, weeks have passed and all of Siena longs to celebrate the heroines who turned the tide in the battle against Florence—while the Florentines will go to great lengths to see them dead.
But Marcello patiently awaits, and Gabi must decide if she’s willing to leave her family behind for good in order to give her heart to him forever.

  Book #3: Torrent

Gabi and Lia Betarrini have learned to control their time travel, and they return from medieval Italy to save their father from his tragic death in modern times.

But love calls across the centuries, and the girls are determined to return forever—even though they know the Black Plague is advancing across Europe, claiming the lives of one-third of the population. In the suspenseful third book of the River of Time series, every decision is about life … and death.

Cast:

Marcello Forelli aka Henry Cavill

   

***Bonus***

Here's some pictures of how I picture him as Marcello. (same person)

 

I have recently discovered Henry Cavill and right away I fell in love with the way he looks. *Swoon* He is gorgeous! After I found these pictures of him from a movie he played in a few years ago I knew that, in my book, he was perfect for Marcello! He is almost exactly like how I pictured him and his voice is nice and deep too! I have seen him in a few movies, he plays: Superman from Man of Steel (2013), Albert Mondego from The Count of Monte Cristo (2002), and Theseus from Immortals (2011). He is a really good actor!

Lord Greco aka Justice Joslin

 

This guy, I don't know much about. I know he is a model, not an actor. I came across him one day on pinterest and in my head he would play a good part for Lord Greco. At least looks wise. I knew that whoever I picked for Greco had to be able to compete looks/brawn wise with Marcello, and this guy looks pretty big as well.

Luca Forelli aka Bradley James

 

Bradley James is a British actor and is best known for his role as King Arthur in the television show Merlin on BBC. I have not seen every episode but I have completely watches the first 4 seasons. It is a pretty interesting show and it brings Bradley's acting to its full potential. He is quite the character on the show and has a funny personality that I believe would fit the part of Luca very well. 

***NOW I NEED YOUR HELP!***

If you have read the River of Times series by Lisa Bergren I would be so happy if you would help me find women to play the roles of Gabi, Lia, and Alessandra. I have been having such an extremely hard time finding women who I believe would be right for the roles. PLEASE PLEASE PLEASE! I am thinking about giving away a book, probably The Frontiersman's Daughter by Laura Frantz, if someone impresses me enough with their character choice... so, keep that in mind. I would give away one from this series, but sadly I don't own any of them, and if I did I wouldn't be able to get myself to give them away. If I do giveaway a book it will be for U.S. ONLY!

***IMPORTANT NEWS***

Keep an eye out for the cover reveal of the last book in the series, Deluge! Lisa has mentioned that it should be done soon, and she might even reveal it on Christmas! EEP!

***FOLLOW ME ON PINTEREST***

I have a board on pinterest dedicated to The River of Times series and it is still growing. As of now it has close to 200 pins!!! I would love for you to check it out! :)

Click HERE to view it!

Merry Christmas everyone!!!

Roses have Thorns by Sandra Byrd

Description:

 From the acclaimed author of To Die For comes a stirring novel told that sheds new light on Elizabeth I and her court. Sandra Byrd has attracted countless fans for evoking the complexity, grandeur, and brutality of the Tudor period. In her latest tour de force, she poses the question: What happens when serving a queen may cost you your marriage—or your life?

In 1565, seventeen-year-old Elin von Snakenborg leaves Sweden on a treacherous journey to England. Her fiance has fallen in love with her sister and her dowry money has been gambled away, but ahead of her lies an adventure that will take her to the dizzying heights of Tudor power. Transformed through marriage into Helena, the Marchioness of Northampton, she becomes the highest-ranking woman in Elizabeth’s circle. But in a court that is surrounded by Catholic enemies who plot the queen’s downfall, Helena is forced to choose between an unyielding monarch and the husband she’s not sure she can trust—a choice that will provoke catastrophic consequences.

Vividly conjuring the years leading up to the beheading of Mary Queen of Scots, Roses Have Thorns is a brilliant exploration of treason, both to the realm and to the heart.

My Opinion:

Wow. I knew this was going to be an emotional book because the first two were, but this is the first book out of the series which I experienced over 20-25 years of the Heroine's life. Throughout, she had amazing ups and devastating downs.

I don't know if I could be in a Queens service for so long, or at least I wouldn't feel as loyal and devoted as these kind hearted heroine's were. Helena was almost willing to risk anything for her Queen. Even though I knew it hurt her to do so, she was willing to put just about anything on the line for her new Queen and country. A lot of the times I thought she risked to much, but I suppose it's just the way things worked back then.

Working in Elizabeth's service for so long started to destroy even Helena's personal life with her family. She had no time for a Husband or raising children, but she had them anyway. She didn't even know she could trust her husband because she was never around to talk with him. Neither of them being there for each other lead to an estranged marriage where neither one of them knew if it would work out.

I learned from this that, if I ever do get married, I always need to make time for my husband. I also need to trust him and not be curious of what he is doing all hours of the day. I need to trust God that he will keep us close, but I also have to take action of my own and keep communication and love flowing through our marriage.

James 2:17

In the same way, faith by itself, if it is not accompanied by action, is dead.

 

Fancy Friday- Emma Swan and Neal? Or Emma Swan and Captain Hook? ***SPOILERS***

***SPOILERS*** Read at your own risk!!!

Ooooooooo... Tough choice! This Fancy Friday is going to be really hard to not give a lot away about the show. IF you really want to know a lot about these characters then continue to read! IF not, then just skip to the bottom and see if you can answer my question. :)

Emma Swan starts out as a mystery. She's not from Storybrooke, but she is connected to the people living there in a very important way.

Emma Swan

Before the Curse:

Prince Charming and Snow White had a baby and they called her Emma. When Regina made the curse, Emma, along with everyone else, was not safe. Prince Charming and Snow White decided to send Emma to a land without magic, that way, someday she could save everyone and restore magic!
 

After the Curse:

Emma grows up throughout the United States- always moving because she is in foster care. When she is 18 she grows up to be a thief and meets a guy named Neal, who is also a thief. They become partners, and close friends in crime. Eventually, their relationship grows into more and they make some mistakes. Emma becomes pregnant and on one of their crime deals Neal ditches her. She goes to jail for 11 months and never sees him again. Did Neal have a reason for what he did?

Emma knows she's not ready to be a mother, and puts her baby into the foster system. About 11 years later a boy comes to her apartment- claiming to be her son.

Baelfire aka Neal Cassidy

Before the Curse:

Neal's real name was Baelfire growing up, and his father was Rumplestilskin. He was from the other world. He was a boy of honesty and integrity, always wanting to do the right thing. He didn't like that his father had a reputation of being a killer, so he made a plan for him and his father to go somewhere else. Somewhere without magic where no one would know who his father was. His father finally agreed to leave, but when it came time to do so, chickened out. Baelfire ended up on Earth, without a dad. Many more things happen, but I won't go into detail. I will only say that something happened to him that changed exactly how he valued life.

After the Curse:

If you read what I wrote in his 'Before the Curse' you know that Neal has a very shady past. He ended up meeting Emma and they formed a relationship. He got her pregnant and planned on staying with her forever. But someone visited him and told him disturbing things about Emma's past that not even she knew. Something that pushed Neal away. He left her on one of their crime sprees, but he thought he had a reason- he thought he was protecting her.

Now, 11 years later. They are accidentally reunited through destined events, and Neal has NO plan to leave this time. He wants a new start, but will Emma give it to him?

Killian Jones aka Captain Hook

Before the Curse:

Killian Jones started as a soldier on a ship with his brother, the Captain. They were sent on a mission, by the King, to Neverland to find something that would help them defeat their country's enemies. While they were there, Killian's brother was killed almost instantly by what they were supposed to bring back. Killian was furious! Not only because his brother was dead, but because his King lied to them! The object was supposed to make the playing field even, not unfair for the other side.

Killian met Peter Pan who told him that there was a secret fountain that would save his brother, but all magic comes with a price- His brother could NEVER leave Neverland. Killian got water at the fountain for his brother and saved him, but he did not heed Peter Pans words. On their way back home, Killian's brother died a second time. 

Killian was furious at the crown, and now as Captain he petitioned the whole crew to rebel and become pirates- to live a life in defiance. In his new life, Killian met a woman named Milah and fell in love with her. However, she was already married. She left her first husband to go with him. About a year later, her husband found them and cut one of Killian's hand's off and killed Milah. Killian was heartbroken and in his NEW state he vowed to get revenge on Milah's first husband- Rumplestilskin. That is the day he took to being called his new name- Hook.

After the Curse:

Some people were not affected by the curse. Regina's mother, Cora figured out a spell that would shield a certain amount of land from the curse. Hook was allies with Cora at the time and therefore was protected by the curse. He did not end up in Storybrooke, and he did not lose his memories. He also never lost his desire for revenge.

28 years after the curse took affect, Hook and Cora find a way to Earth. While on his mission to find and kill Rumplestilskin, he met Emma. At first they are enemies, but then in a fight against Peter Pan they become reluctant allies. Hook begins to have feelings for Emma. However, their is one thing in the way- Neal, who is back in Emma's life.

Which one do you prefer?

Neal and Emma?

or Hook and Emma?

Leave a comment!

Which SHIP (team) are you? Personally, as of now, I want Neal and Emma together. I believe he deserves a second chance and he has shown no reason not to get one. Sure, I like Hook, but give Neal a second chance Emma! PLEASE!

Julie Lessman *CONTEST* Get a character named after you in her next book!!!

Julie Lessman is throwing an AWESOME contest where you can have one of her characters named after you in her next book! I don't know about all of you, but I find that to be a HUGE honor! Here is the information you will need if you are interested:

FYI- On Wednesday, Dec 4th. Julie Lessman's book Love at Any Cost will be FREE to Download!

Click HERE to go to her latest post. Then go straight to the bottom to see the information/rafflecopter!!!

 

*** This video is VERY IMPORTANT in the contest! Watch it and SHARE it!***

While you're there, stay for awhile! Look into her and the books she has written! Your time will not be wasted!

Fancy Friday- Rumplestilskin and Belle

                                     

Rumplestilskin aka Mr. Gold

Before the Curse:

Rumplestilskin, has lived a life of torture. His father abandoned him as a child, and later his wife left him for a pirate because she thought he was a coward. Not only that, but she left their son, Baelfire, with him. Rumple struggles to be a good father, and to protect his boy he becomes the "Dark One", but with this new magic comes a price. He becomes power driven without realizing it, and loses his son because of the very thing he thought would keep them together. When he loses his son he becomes angry, he hurts other people because he no longer feels anything but pain himself... Until he meets Belle.

After the Curse:

Since Rumple was the "Dark One" he was a force to be reckoned with, even to Regina the "Evil Queen". He made it so he still had his memory after the curse that Regina cast.

 In Storybrooke he is known as Mr. Gold, a pawn salesman who who holds a lot of power in the community. Everyone in town is scared of him except the town mayor, Regina. Mr. Gold is still out for just plain old revenge because he believes Belle to be dead, but on top of that, he has a plan that could bring magic to Storybrooke. But is that a good or bad thing?

Belle aka ?Unknown?

Before the Curse:

Belle was a selfless person who gave up her kingdom and her freedom to become Rumples slave so her people would survive. At first, all they did was argue but then a friendship surfaced. Eventually feelings were shared for one another and Rumple let Belle go to town alone for him to run an errand. He expected her to take the opportunity to run away and be free, but Belle met someone along the road. Regina told Belle that true loves kiss would break the spell of Rumple being the "Dark One". Belle came back on a mission to save Rumple from himself, but when Rumple realized what she was trying he cast her away, along with his heart. Later, Regina came and told Rumple that Belle had died because her father cast her away as well because her reputation was ruined.

After the Curse:

Regina put Belle in what I believe to be, and correct me if I'm wrong, and Insane Asylum. She couldn't kill her because she thought she might need her for future use, but she had to keep Belle away from Mr. Gold. Regina never gave Belle a name for her life in Storybrooke because she hoped she would be in the Insane Asylum forever. However, Belle gets out and not knowing who she is she explores Storybrooke and finally meets the Mr. Gold.

Leave a comment before you go!

What do you think? Am I giving away too much? Any suggestions for future ones I do?

Fancy Friday- Regina and Daniel from Once Upon a Time

Regina, The Evil Queen, wasn't always evil. She once was a young girl herself trying to be with the one she loved, but unfortunately it wasn't meant to be. Accidents happen and sometimes the consequences are grave. Regina and Daniel are permanently separated, and in Regina's mind one holds the blame- Snow White. Regina's heart had been shredded into pieces and no one could mend it. All she wants now is revenge because she feels like she can never love again, and she doesn't want to. That's when she really becomes The Evil Queen, when her heart leaves her along with Daniel.

Regina Mills aka The Evil Queen

After Regina loses Daniel, she becomes the Step Mother of Snow White when she is forced to marry King Leopold. However, because of how dark she had become, no one saw her internal plans brewing to take  over. With all the hatred she holded she became a force to be reckoned with. After she tried dozens of times to repay Snow for taking her happiness by trying to split up her an David, she finally came up with a scheme that just might of worked- a curse. A curse that would take everyone to a new land called Earth where they would lose their memory and live alternate lives. After the curse, Regina becomes the Mayor of the city Storybrooke; she is "the only one" who still remembers her past life, and she thinks she has won.

Daniel

We don't ever learn much about Daniel other than he was a Stable Boy that worked for Regina's parents and was in love with her.

Edge of Destiny by Darlene Mindrup

Description:

He bought her off

the slave block.

Something in Chara's incredible eyes convinced Decimus that he had to do anything to free her from the bitter life of slavery from which he himself had recently been freed. But being tied to a slave will make his flight from Rome that much more difficult. Christians in A.D. 63 were already being persecuted by Emperor Nero and escape would require every ounce of strength, determination, and faith.

Allied with Roman centurion, will Decimus be able to find his family in Britannia and share the Gospel with them? Will he and Chara admit that their destiny is more than a convenient friendship...that it is love, eternal?

My Opinion:

This was my first book from Heartsong and also from Darlene Mindrup, so I had no idea what to expect other than what was on the backcover of the book and the good recommendation it received from my sister.

I really liked the story and it was a easy/fast read. I felt like the characters were built up well and everything flowed throughout really nicely. One thing I did not like however was the lack of conflict, especially towards the end of the book. It somewhat foreshadows an upcoming situation that doesn't end up turning into a dramatic event at all. I feel like at the end Darlene should of had at least added one more chapter to lengthen and emphasize the issue. It would have been a lot more interesting if she had done that.

I liked how this book showed that people can be attracted to someones internal beauty more than their outward appearance. Therefore, showing most people don't only fall in love with others they find pleasing to the eye, but the character and morals/beliefs that we share with someone is what should draw two closer together.

This book demonstrated trusting in God to lead us where we are to go. The characters in this book are on a long journey throughout the story, and sometimes get discouraged on whether they are doing the right thing. Eventually, they bring all their fears and anxieties to God through prayer and trust in him to keep them on the path they are supposed to go to bring Glory to him.

Overall, it was a good book but I don't have a ton to say because it was such a short read.

Rating: 4 Stars

Fancy Friday- Snow White and Prince Charming

Snow White and Prince Charming are the main couple in the story. The Evil Queen is always trying to break them apart/kill Snow White for ruining her life in the past. The Evil Queen is always seeking revenge in anyway she can and is willing to go to any length to achieve Snow's demise, she goes so far as to send all Fairy-tale people/creatures alike to a new land; a land without magic- Earth. When they all get there their are only a few who still remember who they are, but they ALL live new/different lives. Will Snow White and Prince Charming find each other again? Will everyone end up remembering who they were and the land they came from?

Snow White aka Mary Margaret Blanchard

 

Before the Curse:

Snow has been a selfless person ever since she was very young. Her mother taught her to be that way, but sadly her mother dies when Snow is still a child. She is raised with her father the king and her step-mother. Things happen in her family that make it so she loses her position in the castle and is forced into the woods for safety. She becomes friends with dwarfs and eventually finds the love of her life that helps her win back her palace. 

After the Curse:

Mary Margaret has been a teacher and a volunteer at the hospital for as long as she can remember. Every time she volunteers she takes flowers to a patient John Doe. No one knows who he is and no one can remember when he showed up in Storybrooke. Mary is a kind woman who always puts others before herself. She is one of the town favorites.

Prince Charming aka David Nolan

Before the Curse:

David was raised up on a farm with his mother and had no idea he was a son of King George until someone comes to tell him that his twin has died and his father needs his other heir. David goes to help his father but has no desire to stay. King George forces David to be engaged to a princess so he can unite their kingdoms, but David wants to marry for love. He meets Snow White and after a lot of bickering they form a relationship. He gets out of his engagement and eventually marries Snow, but his father still wants his head.

After the Curse:

David is unconscious in a hospital for 28 years! Everyone knows him as 'John Doe'. Eventually he wakes up and finds out that he is married, but he can't remember a thing, even his wife. All he knows is that he feels connected to Mary in some way.

Backing Books: Gratitude GIVEAWAY- Tour

Backing Books: Gratitude Giveaway- Tour: Today I want to thank all of my followers for supporting my in my first year of blogging. In the season of Thanksgiving, I have chose...

CHECK THIS OUT!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! GREAT GIVEAWAY FOR THESE BOOKS!!! Just click on the link!

 

Maid to Match by Deeanne Gist

Description:

 From the day she arrives at the Biltmore, Tillie Reese is dazzled—by the riches of the Vanderbilts and by Mack Danver, a mountain man turned footman. When Tillie is enlisted to help tame Mack's rugged behavior by tutoring him in the ways of refined society, the resulting sparks threaten Tillie's efforts to be chosen as Edith Vanderbilt's lady's maid.

But the stakes rise even higher when Mack and Tillie become entangled in a cover-up at the town orphanage. They could both lose their jobs...and their hearts.

My Opinion:

This was my second time reading this book and let me tell you, I felt like I had never read it before! I remembered all the events, but it was like a completely new experience for me! This was and still is one of my all time favorite books!

This was the first book I had ever read by Deeanne Gist; because of this book Deeanne Gist is one of my favorite authors! I have read all her books that are out so far and plan on reading all her ones still to come. I cannot wait for her book Fair Play to come out! 

This is not just one of my favorite books, but the characters in it are also some of my favorites. Tillie and Mack have impacted me in ways I can't explain. Their desires were so crucial to their lives, but they listened to God and what they knew was right no matter the consequences.

I am definitely a romantic, and may I just say that I think Mack is one of the dreamiest fictional characters I have read about, he is right there with Marcello from Lisa Bergrens River of Time series, and Mack is ONLY in ONE book! Deeanne gave him so much charisma that it literally jumps off the pages. He is good-looking, rugged, charming, caring, and nice. He's a hard worker and he knows what he wants out of life. He respects women when most around him don't and he cared about his education growing up.

Tillie is a lot like me in my opinion; a people pleaser. She wants to reach out to others and make them happy because that's what she believes God called her to do. She also wants to explore the world, and she is so blinded with the thought of going places, that she fails to see what it might cost her. One thing is for sure when it comes to her though- she is DETERMINED. When she sets her mind to something she doesn't give up until she accomplishes it.

Furthermore, the detailing that Deeanne uses in her books is flawless. My imagination plays these pages like a clear and crisp movie. Their are no fuzzy lines or edges; everything comes together and morphs into one vivid picture.

The message I get from this book is to not strive and force yourself into the direction you want and or think you should go, but rest and pray that God will LEAD you to him through the events and situations HE puts into your life. 

A verse that I think of whenever I read this is:

Proverbs 3:5-6

New International Version (NIV)

⁵ Trust in the Lord with all your heart
    and lean not on your own understanding;
⁶ in all your ways submit to him,
    and he will make your paths straight.^[a]

 Rating: 5 Stars

Fancy Friday- Once Upon a Time

                                                     

So, just recently, my siblings and I have become obsessed with this show after watching a few episodes on netflix. After watching it for a couple weeks I am now completely caught up to season 3! (I would watch around 10 episodes a day sometimes). Even though I don't really care for the magic aspect of the show, the re-tellings of the fairy-tales and how they all intertwine is genius! I have been shocked/surprised quite a few times by how things played out. Here is a small summary of the show:

Once Upon a Time is an American fairy tale drama series that premiered on Sunday, October 23, 2011, on ABC. The show takes place in the fictional seaside town of Storybrooke, Maine, the residents of which are actually characters from various fairy tales that were transported to the "real world" town and robbed of their real memories by a powerful curse. Episodes typically feature a primary storyline in Storybrooke, as well as a secondary storyline usually from another point in a character's life before the curse was enacted.

Trailer:

 If you are into fairy-tales/romance I definitely recommend this TV series. Its genres include Adventure, Fantasy, and Romance. Its rating is PG, but I must warn you that their is A LOT of kissing in it.

Each week now I will be talking about a single person or a couple from the series. WARNING- I will most likely give away information about the show. (It would be hard not too). I hope you all stop by and leave some comments! :)

COMMENT

Have you seen the show? What do you think of it?

Cinder by Marissa Meyer

Description:

Humans and androids crowd the raucous streets of New Beijing. A deadly plague ravages the population. From space, a ruthless lunar people watch, waiting to make their move. No one knows that Earth’s fate hinges on one girl.

Cinder, a gifted mechanic, is a cyborg. She’s a second-class citizen with a mysterious past, reviled by her stepmother and blamed for her stepsister’s illness. But when her life becomes intertwined with the handsome Prince Kai’s, she suddenly finds herself at the center of an intergalactic struggle, and a forbidden attraction. Caught between duty and freedom, loyalty and betrayal, she must uncover secrets about her past in order to protect her world’s future.

My Opinion:

I was on the fence about reading this book from the start, but I finally decided to read it because my older sister thought highly of it and really wanted me to read it. My sister has been the person I have trusted the most with picking out books for me since she's the one who showed me so many of the authors I read today. She reads many more varieties of books than I do, but when it comes to romance we have always been of a like mind.

She was right about the romance part of this book. I did like it! Their was tension between the two main characters throughout the story. However, I was a little disappointed that they didn't have many encounters. They could have one and then the next would be several chapters later. This I think made the story run a little slower for me, because the whole time I'm waiting for their next encounter.

I did like the concept Marissa was going for in this book, and how well it is thought and played out on paper is beyond genius! BUT, I couldn't relate. I'm not much into futuristic stories because theirs many things thought up by the author and I have NO idea how to picture those things. I'm also not a mechanic like Cinder was, so when it talked about her fixing stuff and all the mumbo-jumbo she had to do, I was lost. I had no idea what she was doing to fix most of the machines/droids.

There were also some things about the story I found to be predictable; I can't say what though because then I would giving it away...

I liked it enough that eventually I will read the second in the book. I HAVE to know how it all ends! Who knows? Maybe I will absolutely fall in love with the second installment, but for now, it was just okay.

Rating: 3 1/2 Stars

Fancy Friday- Beautiful Soul

                                                

This is a great song! You might have heard it before but I thought I would share it anyway. Enjoy:)

        

                                  

Fancy Friday- What Love Really Means

                                                     


Love on someone a little each day, even if you don't know them or what they are going through. God has given all of us the power to change lives- whether it's by making a new friend, witnessing to someone, or just smiling and acknowledging a persons existence. We would all be surprised by the impact we have on one another and the little things we can do to change someone's day.

1 John 4:7 Dear friends, let us love one another, for love comes from God. Everyone who loves has been born of God and knows God.

1 John 4:11 Dear friends, since God so loved us, we also ought to love one another.

I challenge each of you to love on someone and show them what love really means- Show them God's love!

*A Hint of Passion* In Every Heartbeat by Kim Vogel Sawyer

Description:

As three friends who grew up in the same orphanage head off to college together, they each harbor a cherished dream. Libby wishes to become a famous journalist, Pete plans to study to become a minister, and Bennett wants to join a fraternity and have as much fun as possible. But as tensions rise around the world on the brink of World War I, the friends' differing aspirations and opinions begin to divide them, as well. And when Libby makes a shocking discovery about Pete's family, will it drive a final wedge between the friends or bond them in ways they never anticipated?

My Opinion:

This was a really good book but it took me a long time to read because I have had a few busy weeks lately. I have mentioned before that I am in some AP classes this year and they are really taking a toll on me. My AP Chemistry class is very frustrating and has practically been consuming my life, not to mention I feel like I'm not retaining any of the information. On top of that stuff, I have been doing stuff for Homecoming that just ended this last weekend. Boy am I happy it's over! I have a great time during it but it is so time consuming! Therefore, I was not able to give this book the time it needed. I think I would of liked it a lot better if I would of had zero interruptions.

I liked this book because it showed how life is inside school- bullies, fakers, geeks, pretty girls, shy people...etc. and how they all fit together as a whole. Not everybody gets along, and their will always be clicks, but everyone is a piece to the puzzle. We have to be there for everyone, even if we have an extremely small chance of witnessing to them.

I also liked that it was not all about schooling/college, but that it focused on family as well. Family is very important and sometimes we take our own for granted. Throughout the story I saw Pete reaching out to a family that had abandoned him as a child. Even though not all his intentions were good he was still trying to tie all the loose ends his parents had left.

Libby's transformation was amazing! I felt the pain she was going through for everyone she cared about, and I felt so bad when she thought no one loved her back. When she finally stopped chasing after everyone's love she received the gift of God's comforting arms wrapped around her! Sometimes we just need to stop trying to MAKE everything happen and just LET it happen. If that makes sense.

Overall, I enjoyed this book. I just wish I wouldn't have been preoccupied by other things while reading it.

Rating: 4 stars

*I will be one Fall Break later this week! Can't wait to fill up that time with, hopefully, reading and sleep!*

Fancy Friday- 10 Ways to Love

                                  

Fancy Friday- The Paperman

                                                      

This is a really cute mini-movie, with no dialogue, that my older sister showed to me a while ago. You should definitely watch it! This is not the best video, because it's a little blurry and I think there is commentary in Spanish, but I couldn't find a better one that played right. Sorry!

I didn't really know what to do for my Fancy Friday until just a few minutes ago when this video popped into my head. It was like a light bulb went off! Watch this video, it just might make your day or at least make you smile!:)

 

Feel free to leave a comment telling me what you thought about it!

*Hint of Passion* A Bride For All Seasons by Margaret Brownley, Debra Clopton, Robin Lee Hatcher, and Mary Connealy

                                          

Description:

1800s mail-order bride catalogs facilitated many happy marriages. Here are the stories of four couples who owe their wedded bliss to creative editing by The Hitching Post publisher.

“And Then Came Spring”—Margaret Brownley
Sheriff Tom Garrett wants vengeance on his brother’s murderers, but he must think of his orphaned nephew. Then Mary-Jo shows up, swearing she's to Marry Tom’s brother by proxy and he’d neglected to mention a son.

“An Ever-After Summer”—Debra Clopton

Widower Matt McConnell wrote his ad with no room for misunderstanding—Bible believers need not apply. But Bible-thumping Ellie shows up on his doorstep. Matt’s so desperate for her help that he accepts.

“Autumn’s Angel”—Robin Lee Hatcher
Luvena Abbott is a singing sensation in New York. But as guardian to her brother’s children, she has few options to provide a home. Clay Birch won an abandoned theater in a poker game. The Hitching Post editor thinks they’ll make a perfect match.

“Winter Wedding Bells”—Mary Connealy

David Laramie is looking for a woman to care for his children. In exchange he’ll make her financially comfortable for life. But no woman wants to marry a dying man. Then Megan responds to his ad. It seems his “edited” letter contained no mention of him dying.

My Opinion:

This is my first time reading a book that is actually 4 short stories put into one. I was a little hesitant because I figured the romance would be rushed and that it would feel fake and forced. Well, of course the romance is going to be a little forced, I mean come on, these people were willing to marry complete strangers! I thought that I wouldn't be able to see any real love start to flourish however. That was my main concern.

"And Then Came Spring"- Margaret Brownley
This was the first book by Margaret Brownley that I have ever read and I loved it! The pace was so well done and everything was well written. I liked that she had some really good plotting that she was easily able to sum up and fix the situation to. Even though I knew that the two main characters were going to end up together I still had questions of 'When' and 'How', because as we obviously know, somethings got to happen to disrupt the the characters plans. I look forward to reading more books by her in the future!:)

Rating: 5 Stars

"An Ever-After Summer" by Debra Clopton
Again, this is the first book I have read by Debra Clopton. I saw that this was her very first historical fiction writing and she did an amazing job! It was just as good as many other historical books I have read, and those other authors have been writing in that genre for quite some time. She had a great story plot! I feel like she rushed in the end to get everything sorted out a little bit, but it's still worth reading. If you ever need a short little read to give you a quick laugh, An Ever-After Summer would be perfect!

Rating: 4 Stars

"Autumn's Angel" By Robin Lee Hatcher
This was the one with the least romance. It focused, in my opinion, more with Clay accepting being a step-father. The story was written very well and had a nice story. I liked the parts when Clay was hanging out with the children and building a relationship with them, and then seeing how that tugged on Luvena's heart strings. Altogether, an adorable read.

Rating: 4 Stars

"Winter Wedding Bells" by Mary Connealy

I had once, awhile back, tried to read a book by Mary called Out of Control. I normally try to finish books even if I don't like them, but I really didn't like the way that one was written and I would get confused about what was going on. So, I had to give up on it and I honestly hadn't picked up a book by Mary since... Until Now. Winter Wedding Bells was great! I believe that it was written differently and the sentences ran a lot smoother. Everything was understandable and enjoyable. I love the characters and how they were built up. One thing I would of like would have been for for David to need to re-face his past.

Rating: 4 Stars

*** One thing I have to say is that I did enjoy these short stories, but I am having a hard time with how fast these characters are falling in love. I don't really believe in love at first sight, except for when it comes to God. These characters also would be thinking that it would never work out between them, then all the sudden, they are wanting to be together. That aspect of these books was just a little unrealistic to me. 

Fancy Friday- Sacrifice

First, I wanted to say that I had so much fun doing the Character Casting for the Daughters of Boston and Wind of Change series by Julie Lessman these last several weeks. I will have those pictures and more, including my collages, on pinterest if any of you want to look at my pin page. My name on there is Salyna Gyger. Simple enough.

Secondly. I want to apologize for not doing a Fancy Friday last week. Once I was finished with the Character Castings I completely forgot. I only remembered today to do this one... Oops!

                                                   

                                                                    Sacrifice

Recently, as you may know, I have read a book named Rebellious Heart by Jody Hedlund. I gave it 5 stars in my review because it was just amazing! If you want to see my review for it you can click here.

Well, I hope you guys don't hate me fore giving this stuff away, but I'm going to show you a part from the book that I absolutely adored. It shows that Ben and Susanna loved each other so much that they were both willing to give up there lives for one another. Of course, this made me think of the greatest sacrifice of all, Jesus dying on the cross for our sins.

John 3:16

New International Version (NIV)

¹⁶ For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.

The scene from the book is so sweet that I just had to share it. If you don't want to know anything from the book yet then I suggest not reading any further.

Scene:

       The meetinghouse door rattled, and suddenly it swung open. The wind caught hold of the door and slammed it against the wall with a bang that brought everyone to silence.
       Ben jumped, but relief swelled through him. Finally the beadle was back with the prisoners. Now he could get the dirty deed done. He could hand himself over to Lieutenant Wolfe.
      Several loud gasps from the balcony drew Ben's attention upward. Mrs. Smith had risen to her feet. Her eyes widened and dismay carved lines into her face.
      Even before a word slipped from Mrs. Smith's lips, Ben knew the prisoners hadn't just walked into the meetinghouse. He twisted in his pew.
      There, framed in the open doorway and the swirling snow, stood Susanna. The wind had captured her cloak and swept the hood from her head, revealing her loose hair. It blew in dark tangles about her pale face. Her apparel was askew. She'd likely come straight from bed and only stopped to throw on a gown as an afterthought.
       Still, her beauty was utterly breathtaking, with the contrast of her ebony hair against the whiteness of the blowing snow.
       The wind whipped at her, and she swayed against the pressure.
       In an instant, Ben was on his feet and fumbling at the latch of his pew.
       He only had to peer at the determination flashing from her eyes to know why she was there. She caught her balance and started down the center aisle. Each step was halting, but her eyes found the lieutenant and didn't budge from him.
       His heart racing, Ben scrambled to exit the pew. He couldn't let her hand herself over to Lieutenant Wolfe. He had to stop her before she confessed everything.
       He flung open the pew door and started down the aisle.
       She swayed again and then stumbled, obviously still too weak to be out of bed. She grasped the nearest pew to keep from falling.
       Ben sprinted the last several steps and caught her by the arm. "Susanna,"he whispered, "You're ill, and you should not be here."
       "Let me go," she whispered back.
       "You need to be home in bed."
       "I'm not leaving her unless it's with Lieutenant Wolfe."
       Her whisper echoed in the silent meetinghouse, and he was sure everyone had heard her announcement, even the women in the galleries.
       With a groan he dragged her into his arms.
       Her body wilted and she collapsed against him.
       How had she managed to leave the house without Phoebe noticing her? And how had she been able to drag herself to the meetinghouse alone?
       Frustration pummeled him. He didn't have time to sweep her up into his arms and carry her down the street to the house and turn himself in to the lieutenant as soon as Dotty and Tom arrived.
       "Susanna..." He glanced around the building and, seeing that everyone was staring at them bent lower so that his mouth brushed her ear. "I won't let you say anything to the lieutenant."
       "You can't prevent me, Ben," She said.
       "I'll tie you up, gag you, and find a place to lock you up."
       She tilted her head back, and anger blazed in her eyes, bring them to life, making her more beautiful than ever. There was so much passion inside her, so much depth. That's why he loved her.
       And his love for her could never allow him to let her discard her reputation, her future, and her chances at happiness.
       But before he could decide what must be done with her, she wrenched away from him and lurched backward. "Brothers and sisters." she called.
       He stepped toward her. "Susanna, please!"
       She held out a hand to halt him. "My brothers and sisters," she repeated, and louder this time. "I must make a confession."
       He knew he ought to snatch her, cover her mouth, and drag her from the meetinghouse-even if she kicked and screamed. But she looked him square in the eyes, and something new flamed in the dark recesses that took his breath away.
       Was it love? Was it possible Susanna Smith loved him?
       Or was her love similar to what she had for Tom? After all, she loved Tom and was willing to sacrifice herself for the slave, just as she was willing to do for him.
       He reached for her, needing to pull her into his arms, to hear the declaration of love from her lips. But she took another quick step away, her body trembling with her effort to stand. She lifted her chin and pressed her lips together. Determination hardened the usual softness of her face.
       "I have to do this, Ben," she said. "I won't be able to live with myself I allow anyone else to take responsibility for what I've done."
       He knew the desperation she was feeling. It mirrored his own. Even so, he couldn't let her hand herself over.
       Out of the corner of his eye, he caught the movement of Reverend Smith coming down the aisle toward them, as well as Mrs. Smith descending the stairway from the gallery.
       If he couldn't capture Susanna before she blurted out her confession, then he could enlist their help in locking Susanna away until after the trial. They were as determined as he was to keep Susanna free from suffering at the hands of the lieutenant.
       But Susanna shook her head- almost sadly. Then she glanced away from him to the front of the building, to the judge.
       Even before she opened her mouth to speak, Ben knew what she would say.
       He lunged for her.
       "Honorable Judge Niles," she started loudly.
       But that's as far as she got. He captured her before she could escape, jerking her against him, and cutting off her next words by covering her mouth with his.
       She held herself stiff for only a moment before softening and sagging against him, giving in to his tender kiss.
       It didn't matter that the whole parish of Weymouth was witnessing his affection for her. He blocked out the eruption of their gasps and murmurings.
       He needed to stop her from her foolishness. It didn't matter that she might not be ready for his declaration of love. It didn't matter anymore if he gave away how much he loved her.
As if from a distance, Mrs. Smith's tense whispers urged him to stop, and Reverend Smith stood next to them clearing his throat.
       He didn't care what they thought anymore. In fact, he didn't care what anyone thought. He was done living his life at the mercy of status and prestige.
       Besides, it was his good-bye kiss to her. For after today, he doubted he would ever see her again.
       With one last consuming press of his mouth to hers, he dragged his lips from hers and pushed them against her ear. "I love you, Susanna," he whispered. "I love you with every fiber of my being. And I always will, until the day I die."

...End...

I hope you guys liked this little glimpse into Rebellious Heart, and I hope that it made you want to read the story! I loved this book!