Up on the Rooftop with...THE BOOK OF KRINGLE by Derek Valez Partridge and Mary Packard

Hi boys and girls!

Welcome back to Satisfaction for Insatiable Readers.

Today, we're shining the light on a new-to-me Christmas title suitable for all ages.  It's a Picture Book that came to my attention courtesy of the fab folks at Smith Publicity Inc, and in a curious little story strewn with wonderful illustrations, manages to tell the legend of the big S.C. in a whole knew way.  So, if you THINK you know the story of how this kind hearted man in red came to be, think again.  Prepare to be dazzled as we step between the pages of today's book of choice...

The Book of Kringle:  Legend of the North Pole

by

Derek Calez Partridge and Mary Packard

Illustrations by

David Wenzel

About the book...

The Book of Kringle Legend of the North Pole Author Derek Velez Partridge written with Mary Packard. In a magical land on top of the world, an epic struggle between light and darkness was waged between two brothers. King Kringle ruled with a harsh hand over the elves of the North Pole, allowing no laughter, no play and no Christmas celebration. There was only one, truly kindhearted soul who could make a difference and change the course of the world. Would the elves be able to find Santa and bring joyous laughter to the land? Manusol the Elf knows the answer, for it is written in The Book of Kringle. This book is good fit for both boys and girls!

AMAZON

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With it's charming cover and curious description, how could I not accept the opportunity to read/review this title at this festive time of year?  It was simply a given from the start and by book's end, I was rather intrigued.

Most of us have seen several dozen or so takes on the old "how-Santa-came-to-be-Santa" story.  From being lost in a blizzard and found (not dying as SOME might think) by the Vendegum (aka elves) that were waiting for his arrival to a matter of circumstance where the current man-in-red "fell down" on the job and POOF, you were him, and everything in between.  Who's to say which is real versus fantasy?  My point exactly, which makes this story CLAUS-able too.  (^-^)  Here, we have mighty King Kringle lording over his subjects with an iron fist, and outlawing pretty much anything fun, joyous, or celebratory in any way...including Christmas.  Geesh, Scrooge before his enlightenment much?  Things were taking an even more drastic turn for the worst when a prophecy of sorts foretold a kind soul emerging from their midst to put the spark of love and caring back into the hearts and lives of their wintery world.  This person would be so pure of heart, the magic of the crystals that surround them would be reawakened and shine for all to see.  Just WHO was this gentle person who would go by many names but conjure the same spirit of generosity across the lands?  Wouldn't you like to know...

The story takes the joy and wonder of the season, injects a little family feud (one sided but still) that's wreaking havoc on the land, and reminds us that there is always light to be found even in the darkest of nights.  The author's writing and the illustrator's fantasy tinged images work hand in hand to create a memorable read that is unlike any of the other stories of Santa Clause that I've encountered before.  Though geared towards wee ones in style, I really feel it's the Kid Lit set and beyond that will take the most from the story, both enjoyment and lesson wise. 

So if you're looking for a great add to your holiday reading list this season, take a gander at this title available at an online retailer of your choosing!

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About the author...

Derek Velez Partridge is a Writer/director/producer of features films such as 'A Miracle in Spanish Harlem' (@MiracleSpHarlem) (also on Amazon). Most recently Derek has ventured into children's books. He is the author of The Book of Kringle, Legend of the North Pole; an adventure story of a re-imagined Christmas tale. This is the first book of a series.Stay tuned!

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Special thanks to Rachel at Smith Publicity Inc for the ebook for review.  (THANKS!)  For more information on this title, the author, or those promotion on the horizon, feel free to click through the links provided above.  This title is available now so visit the official site, or click over to Amazon to snag your copy today.

Until next time, remember...if it looks good, READ IT!



BLOG TOUR: Murder at the Moonshine Inn by Maggie King + GIVEAWAY!

Hi there!

Welcome back to Satisfaction for Insatiable Readers.

Today, we're joining a promotion already in progress courtesy of Great Escapes Virtual Book Tours.  If you haven't jumped on board their merry band of reviewers or featured titles and you're a Cozy Mystery fan, you don't know what you're missing...but you can by participating and then be jealous of what you've missed, but only just so that you revel in all the joys yet to come.  Sound good?  Good!  ^-^  Now, on with today's show...

Though I'm not a religious reader of Cozy Mysteries, but I have been known to dabble from time to time and in the case of this particular read, I'm very glad I did.  Going in, you'll note that it's the second in a series; please try not to fret.  It reads perfectly well as a standalone, proved by my own reading experience, but it may just have you curious to backtrack to that first adventure for our unlikely heroine, Hazel Rose (and friends!).  Without further ado, today's book of choice is...

Murder at the Moonshine Inn

A Hazel Rose Book Group Mystery, Book 2

by

Maggie King
9781633932814
Koehler Books


About the book...

When high-powered executive Roxanne Howard dies in a pool of blood outside the Moonshine Inn, Richmond, Virginia’s premiere redneck bar, the victim’s sister enlists Hazel Rose to ferret out the killer. At first Hazel balks—she’s a romance writer, not a detective. But Brad Jones, Rox’s husband, is the prime suspect. He’s also Hazel’s cousin, and Hazel believes in doing anything to help family. Never mind that Brad won’t give her the time of day—he’s still family.

Hazel recruits her book group members to help with the investigation. It’s not long before they discover any number of people who feel that a world without Rox Howard is just fine with them: Brad’s son believes that Rox and Brad were behind his mother’s death; Rox’s former young lover holds Rox responsible for a tragedy in his family; and one of Rox’s employees filed a wrongful termination lawsuit against her. The killer could be an angry regular from the Moonshine Inn—or just about anyone who ever crossed paths with the willful and manipulative Rox. When a second murder ups the ante Hazel must find out who is behind the killings. And fast. Or she may be victim #3.

Amazon    B&N






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It's not often I find myself immersed in a cozy mystery, yet alone the ebook version of it, but once I started this one, I couldn't put it down. 


Hazel Grace and her motley crew of book lover's and friends have a little more life experience than your usual suspects, I mean cast of characters, in most other books of this nature, but that makes it that much more endearing.  You care about Hazel as you would an aunt or parent.  You find yourself laughing at their outbursts (did someone order a coffee in the face?  I distinctly remember someone ordering a coffee facial...HA!) because not only are they laughable (the getups for their Moonshine Inn "date"...HA!), but more often than not, ENTIRELY SPOT ON!  The antics they get into, aka mischief they stir up (taunting murder suspects, and disgruntled relatives you only just found on your family tree), are enough to make anyone's head spin, but when you add in the unexpected flavor of danger, you've got a recipe for success...and succeed is one thing for certain this story did!


In the end, I must say, Hazel Grace is one smart cookie.  Is she perfect?  By no means, especially when we consider the random ill decision now and then which very well might have the curtains close on her life story sooner than intended, but for now at least, from the start of the book, we've got her full attention, piqued her curiosity, and sent her creative mind into overdrive...just the way we like it!  As the pieces start to fall into place, you'll find yourself trying to solve the murders (yes, that would be plural as in more than one....eek!) along with these spritely ladies, but managing to guess the culprit before the big reveal is gonna be a task and a half.  The author does a great job playing keep away without getting off track, and the injected humor feels natural (and provides oh-so-much fun!). 


Recommended read for Cozy Mystery fans as well as those readers who just like a good story where the big action happens off the page but you still get to revel in the results of those unseen events.








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About the author...

Maggie King is the author of the Hazel Rose Book Group mysteries, including the recently-released Murder at the Moonshine Inn. She contributed the stories “A Not So Genteel Murder” and “Reunion at Shockoe Slip” to the Virginia is for Mysteries anthologies.

Maggie is a member of Sisters in Crime, James River Writers, and the American Association of University Women. She has worked as a software developer, retail sales manager, and customer service supervisor. Maggie graduated from Elizabeth Seton College and earned a B.S. degree in Business Administration from Rochester Institute of Technology. She has called New Jersey, Massachusetts, and California home. These days she lives in Richmond, Virginia with her husband, Glen, and cats, Morris and Olive.

SITE  |  TWITTER  |  FACEBOOK








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Special thanks to Lori at Great Escapes Virtual Book Tours for the chance to bring this promotion to you as well as the ebook for review.  (THANKS!)  For more information on this title, the author, the publisher, THIS TOUR, or those on the horizon, feel free to click through the links provided above.  This title is available now via Koehler Books, so be on the lookout for it on a bookstore shelf or virtual retailer of your choosing.







BEFORE YOU GO...
DON'T MISS YOUR CHANCE TO WIN A COPY OF THIS VERY TITLE!  JUST CLICK HERE AND FILL OUT THE RAFFLECOPTER FORM AND YOU'RE IN IT TO WIN IT!




Until next time, remember...if it looks good, READ IT!



BOOK BLAST: Sight Unseen by Erin Leigh Crisp + EXCERPT!

Hi there!

Welcome back to Satisfaction for Insatiable Readers.

(No, these aren't my dogs...but aren't they adorbs!)

Here's hoping your weekend was stupendous and you're gearing up for the winter holidays.  I managed to go with the family to PetSmart and take advantage of their "stuff your stocking" event...let's just say the fur kids have been VERY NICE this year.  ^-^  I'm looking ahead to some great reads and a few days off (*fist pump*), so all in all, not a bad start to the month...though I do wish my SUV was OUT of the shop for good (darn manufacturer defects...third rental car this month!).  Anywho, let's get to the books, shall we?

Today, we're shining the light on a Christian Romance title courtesy of Pump Up Your Book.  From the sound of things, it holds promise to be a pretty stellar read and while it's not on my rotation this season (overbooked...go figure!  ^-^), it may just find a home on yours.  Ladies and gents, I give you today's title in the spotlight...

Sight Unseen

A Hero's Heart series, Book 1

by

Erin Leigh Crisp

About the book...

Emilia Phillips is looking for a career and a way out of her day job. She is not looking for a man to rescue her heart. 

Asher Mason wants his life back. He lost his sight and the hero-life he loved in a millisecond. He no longer trusts his instincts, especially about women. But the sweet-smelling waitress in his favorite café tempts him to trust. As Emilia helps Asher relearn everyday activities, the two find themselves falling faster than either expected.

Can a woman love a blind soldier? Will she want a man who doesn’t recognize himself anymore? As Asher’s shortcomings become more apparent to him, the wedge forced between he and Emilia widens. Can Asher trust the same God that took his sight to direct his future?

Amazon

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~~~ EXCERPT ~~~

“How long has it been?” Emilia could have bitten off her own tongue. 

His eyes glanced over again, but they didn’t see her. He gave one huge breath and shrugged, like it wasn’t important. “Three months.”

Only three months? And he was walking around town and ordering coffee? No seeing-eye dog, no dark glasses? She wanted to compliment him, but she figured he wasn’t the type of man to take it for what it was. Instead, she eased her hand onto his shoulder for a split second and went for humor instead.

“I should have noticed when you didn’t wink back at me earlier.”

His head shot up, and his cheeks tinged the darkest pink.

Emilia covered her giggle and shook her head. “I swear I’m kidding. I wasn’t flirting with you, but I really should have noticed earlier. My brother was born blind. He’s seventeen.”

The man looked curious, but he was still blushing and she decided not to press him. “Anyway, if you need anything, my name is Emilia. I’ll be here all week.”

His lips turned up in the smallest smile. She reminded herself that she wasn’t looking for a man. She took three steps away before he called her name.

Her feet stopped. “Yeah?”

He swallowed hard, his fingers linking on the tabletop. His eyes searched for her face. “I’m Asher Mason. Thank you, again.”

“It was my pleasure.” She turned and walked away, but the damage was already done. Her heart thumped crazily. Her cheeks heated. Her teeth bit down to stop the smile that threatened. And I’m in a load of trouble, she thought.

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About the author...

Erin was born and raised on the Florida/Alabama state line in a small farming community which has served as inspiration for her novels. She believes the heart of a happy ending is God and His plan for the lives of His people.

 

In 2014, Erin published her first novels for sale.  She currently has eight full-length novels and one novella for sale on Amazon. Erin makes her home in Northeast Georgia with her husband, four children and two fish. Erin has a bachelor degree in Christian Counseling and enjoys photography in her spare time.

WEBSITE | TWITTER | FACEBOOK

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Special thanks to Dorothy at Pump Up Your Book for the chance to bring this promotion to you.  (THANKS!)  For more information on this title, the author, or those tours forthcoming, feel free to click through the links provided above. This title is available now, so click on over to Amazon to snag your copy today!

Until next time, remember...if it looks good, READ IT!



BOOK SPOTLIGHT: Rosie and Friends Positively Different by Helen Hipp

Hi there!

Welcome back to Satisfaction for Insatiable Readers.

 

Today, we're shining the spotlight on a Picture Book title via My Book Tours.  It stars a child friendly look at the strength and confidence that can be found in truly being yourself...a hard concept to grasp, let alone remember at any age, but especially during those formative years.  So, to help deliver the message that we are all special, unique, and FABULOUS in our own right, here comes today's title in the spotlight...

 

 

 

Rosie and Friends Positively Different

by

Helen Hipp

 

About the book...

Rosie and Friends is Helping Children to Understand That Their Uniqueness Is Not a Weakness.

 

Rosie the Pink Hippo asks readers "What advice would you give your friends who want to feel better about themselves" in this adventure book to help readers see that being different can be positive. Join Rosie the Pink Hippo, Olivia the Ostrich, and many others in this educational and eye-opening 28-page illustrated children's book, Rosie and Friends Positively Different, a creative and fun teaching tool intended for parents, caregivers, teachers, and children who may have felt at some point in their life that they were different from their peers.

 

 

 

PURCHASE ROSIE AND FRIENDS POSITIVELY DIFFERENT ON AMAZON.COM

 

 

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About the author...

 

 

Helen Hipp has had her own kind of safari through the land of a large family. She was always exploring new ways to define herself. There are many ways to navigate the waters of life says Helen. “You may ride in a canoe, sailboat, motorboat, or you may find yourself on the back of a pink hippo!”

With a mindset that centered on creating opportunities out of obstacles, Helen explored career opportunities, by connecting her personal experiences (parenting a child with special needs) with her beliefs, professional skills, and aspirations.

Helen received her M.A. in counseling and began her career as a psychotherapist to help people find answers for their life problems. Her work eventually evolved into a coaching practice, WithinU Life Coaching, focusing on individuals with special needs and their families.

Helen has authored articles for Family Works and Washington Family Magazine and written multiple self-help articles published by ezine.com where she is viewed as an expert in her field. She has been a contributor as a special needs consultant to FOX44 News in Burlington, Vermont.

In addition to her work, Helen has written two children’s books creating a very effective way to motivate kids of all ages to meet their challenges with self-acceptance, confidence and understanding.

Her debut children’s book, A Different Kind of Safari, released in 2013 addresses the many questions life asks by offering up lighthearted, ever-changing perspectives that transform personal challenges into opportunities. Once again, the engaging safari family, led by Rosie the Pink Hippo inspires, and help you see your life differently in her new book, Rosie and Friends Positively Different. With a cast characters experiencing real-life issues such as anxiety, fear, physical differences and poor self-esteem, Helen Hipp’s adventure books provide children with the opportunity to identify, understand and feel supported by the characters handling of similar fears, interests, and concerns.

Readers can connect with Helen Hipp on her website and on Twitter.

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Special thanks to Susan at My Book Tour for the chance to bring this promotion to you.  (THANKS!)  For more information on this title, the author, or those tours on the horizon, feel free to click through the links provided above.  Be sure to keep your eye on the blogosphere for all the other awesome sites participating in this promotion!  This title is available now, so swing by Amazon to snag your copy today and help the little ones in your life live BIG, live PROUD, and show the world who they truly are!

Until next time, remember...if it looks good, READ IT!

 

 

 

 



Hannah Grace and the Dragon Codex by Roger Ziegler

Hi guys and gals!

Welcome back to Satisfaction for Insatiable Readers.

Well, we've made it.  It's OFFICIALLY DECEMBER, which means another year of great reading is about to come to a close...but not JUST yet.  There's still 30 some odd days to fill with bookish delight and today's featured title is indeed one of those that will delight among other things. 

It's a book that was next on my reading rotation and yet also managed to break a teeny reading slump I had unfortunately fallen into (darn slumps...don't happen often but when they do, ugh!).  Bonus points to it for that, but even if it hadn't had to follow up some less-than-favorite reads from my TBR, even if it had to go against some stellar superstars, it would still shine VERY brightly on its own.  Ladies and gents, children of middle grade and older ages, find your inner balance and get ready to join Hannah Grace and friends on an adventure you won't forget!  Today's book of choice is...

Hannah Grace and the Dragon Codex

Book 1:  Hansu Chathri

by

Roger Ziegler

9781516990887

CreateSpace

About the book...

When an ancient book of wisdom is stolen, 11-year-old Hannah Grace and her karate besties must discover their true powers to rescue the book before Big Evil takes over the Universe.
Magic, positivity, adventure (and a sumo wrestling guinea pig), await readers in the first book of this coming of age fantasy series. It's perfect for all kids who love to get lost in worlds of wonder and imagination.

Every day after school, Hannah Grace does her homework and practices karate with her father John. But one morning when Hannah wakes from a strange dream where she sees an ancient and mysterious book, she's more than a little shocked when her dad reveals an amazing secret; it's The Dragon Codex, the most powerful book ever created and he needs Hannah to find it before Big Evil gets it and takes over the Universe!

Suddenly, Hannah, who can barely remember her homework, is thrown into a much larger world of magic and danger--and a whole lot of people are counting on her.

Hannah's got it covered though. Actually, she has no idea what to do, but she's not giving up just yet.

AMAZON

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When I started this book, I thought...okay, here's goes nothing...let's see what you've got.  When I finished this book, I was SO ready for the next installment. 

Hannah Grace and her two besties are drawn into a magical, mythical, otherworldly fight for power they never knew existed, and it all surrounds the mysterious Dragon Codex.  Just what IS this curious book with swirling worlds and a magnetism seemingly none can deny, and why is Hannah's father so desperate for her to uncover its whereabouts?  She doesn't even know what it is exactly, let alone where it could possibly be!  Or does she?  Things aren't always what they seem in this story and there are more riddles than you can shake a stick at, so finding your way to the exciting end is best left to the semi-professionals; in this case, Hannah.  With her friends by her side, and the teachings of karate (and her Dad!) as their guide, there's nothing they can't do...now they just have to BELIEVE that before the whole of the world is under the power of the Big Evil.  Good luck kiddos!  You SO got this!

This was one EXCITING story!  The action never let up, the lessons were never dry, the morals were a good reminder for all, and while aimed at the Middle Grade crowd, I really feel the fan base extends much further than those boundaries.  It reminds me in a sense of a Disney movie.  It appeals to the kiddos because of the "bright and shiny", but the inside jokes throughout make it a hit with the over toddler crowd.  The author spins a tale just out there enough to be considered fantasy, and yet believable enough to make you want to investigate those literary lion statues outside the NYPL.  (Seriously!  I wonder if there really could be a passage to...)  It even uncovers the source of an affliction suffered by bookworms round the world.  You know, where you randomly spout literature and get lost in books so completely you think you're there?  (Egads! So that's what my problem is...)

In the end, I gotta say it was a great read! I loved the puns and the wit (The Bowling League of Big Evil...seriously?!  Hahaha!  ^-^), the creativity and imagination employed (our little "master" who helps the kiddos uncover their potential), and the unusual arrival of a particular red furry character that usually "lives" on a street named after (not really) my dad's favorite Chinese dish, who totally kicks butt even in his final moments.  (*dun dun dunnnn*) Now that I've returned to the real world (*grumble grumble*), I will keep a watchful eye on the horizon for my next chance to go on a grand adventure with Hannah Grace and whomever might come her way; after all, there is still much to do if she's ever going to finish the...umm, never mind.  Just take it from one bookworm to another, this is a perfect addition to your wish list this holiday season.

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About the author...

Roger (Ziegler) long ago rejected the sensible (and sane), advice of his parents to be a lawyer or doctor and became a writer instead. He's been a journalist, taxi driver, actor, theater producer, collection agent and so much more!

He's received writing awards from the New York State Press Association and the Physicians for Social Responsibility. Roger coauthored the Amazon "beast" selling humorous self-help book Pee On It and Walk Away: How to Deal with Difficult People. Life Lessons from Superdog Abby, www.peeandwalk.com.

Roger is a third-degree black belt in Seido karate and has a wonderful, magical nine-year-old daughter. Roger likes fudge.

This is his debut novel.

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Special thanks to author Roger Ziegler for the copy for review.  (THANKS!)  For more information on this title, the series, or the author, feel free to click through the links provided above.  This title is available now, so be on the lookout for it at your favorite online retailers.

Until next time, remember...if it looks good, READ IT!