Wednesday, February 1, 2012

The Sound of Red Returning, Book review and Giveaway

Book description:

After losing everyone she loves, concert pianist Liesl Bower has nowhere to go but to escape into her music. Searching for the peace she usually finds in her concertos and sonatas, Liesl can't shake the feeling that she is being haunted by her past . . . and by someone following her. When she spots a familiar and eerie face in the audience of a concert she's giving for the president in Washington, DC, the scariest day of her life comes back to her with a flash. It has been fifteen years since Liesl watched her beloved Harvard music mentor assaulted on a dark night in Moscow and just as long since the CIA disclosed to her that he'd been spying for Russia. She had seen that man-that eerie face-the night Professor Devoe was attacked. And now he's back-and coming for her.

My review:

Sue Duffy is definitively an author to add to your 'favourites'!  
'The Sound of Red Returning' is listed as Book 1 in the series written by this fine author and best described as an absolute delight for an avid reader such as myself!
If the resume peaked my interest with its colourful description, it is Sue Duffy's clear and insightful writing skills which kept me turning page after page! In fact the end could be described as a comical moment as I realized the book was done and there was nothing else for me to do but wait for the next installment!

There is something very seductive in a plot alternating betwixt charismatic Old Charleston, South Carolina with its lovely gardens and sweet smelling camellias, old rambling houses and slaves quarters, Boston, New York, Moscow and even Israel...One has a sense of traveling from one corner of the globe to another, whilst checking over one's shoulder for tails...This is a suspense after all!
We are reminded that whilst the Cold War is over, there is much still happening behind the scenes...

In this story you feel a participant and if at times you hold your breath as the story unfolds, you continuously feel the adrenaline flowing through your veins! Your senses are involved 100%!
You hear the piano keys subtly played in the background, the vibrations filtering in your imagination...You feel the frustration of the young lonely artist as you experience with her the many flashbacks, subtle clues to the ever present danger.
In the end, you realize you have discovered an author who redeems all the fluff work on the market!

Sue Duffy brings to readers an intricate work of fiction leaving no doubt faith is an integral part! And with characters enticing you to either love them or leave them, you immerse yourself in a great suspense whilst enjoying the witty repartees!

The Sound of Red Returning is listed as Christian fiction and I for one, was delighted in finding God truly had a place in this story, not just a quick acknowledgment! With Him, through Him..
With many twists to its plot and a breathtaking ending, this is a story you will enjoy! 
5 stars!!
Now it remains for us fans to await Book 2...

About the author:


Sue Duffy is the author of two other novels, 'Fatal Loyalty' and 'Mortal Wounds'. She is a pianist, artist and avid boater! You will find more about this interesting author on her website (here).

Win a Kindle Fire from @SueDuffy2 and @KregelBooks in the "Red Returning" Giveaway!

Sue Duffy and her publisher, Kregel Publications, are celebrating the release of The Sound of Red Returning by giving away a Kindle Fire prize package worth over $200 to one lucky winner!!!! (1/23-2/11)





Enter the Sue Duffy’s Giveaway today and you could win:

* A brand new Kindle Fire with Wi-Fi

* The Sound of Red Returning (Book One in the Red Returning series) by Sue Duffy

To enter click one of the icons below. But, hurry! The giveway ends on 2/11. Sue will be announcing the winner of the “Red Returning” Giveaway on February 13th on the Litfuse website!



Enter via E-mail Enter via FacebookEnter via Twitter
Tell your friends via FACEBOOK or TWITTER and increase your chances of winning. 


I received this book free from LITFUSE as part of their Blogger Review program. I was not asked to write a positive review and the opinions expressed are entirely my own.

I am disclosing this in accordance with the FTC 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.

First Ever Giveaway!


I have always thought that gifts should be reciprocated in some measure so as happy as I feel when I receive/win something, it figures I would be even happier if I could return the favour!

It is certainly fun to offer giveaways sponsored by one author or PR company, but this time it is my turn!

Note to readers: THIS GIVEAWAY IS OPEN INTERNATIONALLY!


For this first giveaway ever, I decided to search for something feminine, delicate and with a touch of Spring!
The artists are featured on Etsy and I love their work! Judge for yourself, this lovely pendant is called Dream...

The Pendant Emporium is the name for the Etsy shoppe owned by Louisiana based Shelly and Dan and features over 400 lovely items!
Sherry has always loved art, and re purposing fine art, antique faerie tale illustrations, the whimsical and the slightly odd into wearable pieces has become an obsession these last few years. Together with her son Dan, she produces quality pieces such as the one I purchased. I chose a lovely chain to go with the pendant as well!
Note:  Sherry and Dan will be opening Moon Garden Designs on Etsy later this year with romantic vintage styled art pendants...


What must you do to win this lovely pendant? Write a comment and be sure to include your email address for contact (you know, i.e. 123spring at hotmail com).

The giveaway is open internationally and until 13 February 2012 at midnight PDT!
On 14 February 2012, a winner will be chosen thru Random.org just in time for Valentine's Day!
Winner's name will then be published and voila!

Blessings to all,

Tuesday, January 31, 2012

God's Earth...


Winter storms and much rain have damaged some of our trees and so despite the heartache must be cut down...


'A few minutes ago every tree was excited, bowing to the roaring storm, waving, swirling, tossing their branches in glorious enthusiasm like worship. But though to the outer ear these trees are now silent, their songs never cease. Every hidden cell is throbbing with music and life, every fiber thrilling like harp strings, while incense is ever flowing from the balsam bells and leaves. No wonder the hills and groves were God's first temples, and the more they are cut down and hewn into cathedrals and churches, the farther off and dimmer seems the Lord himself.' 
 (John Muir)


It feels always a little sad to cut them down, however much it needed to be done!

Just another day on this island...

Blessings to all,

Monday, January 30, 2012

Updated Review Of The Big Book Of History


Book description:

Unfold 6000 years of history in a stunning chart that stretches 15 feet. Designed to share the most details in a colorful collection of important facts and interesting photos, this book is now available in HARDCOVER FORMAT!
The Big Book of History is the perfect way to engage your child in an adventurous trip through time - from the first Day of Creation to present day! Discover:
  • The birthdates of conquerors, kings, inventors, scientists, and famous men of God
  • Wars and wonders of the ancient and modern worlds
  • The 969-year-old man who shared the true history of the world with Noah
  • The first ancient inventions and discoveries of chocolate, yo-yos, batteries, movies, and more!

My (updated) review:

I recently reviewed this book in a different format (soft cover/envelope) (here) and received this hardcover edition to review as well.
Based on the Old and New testaments this is a 15 foot fold out book filled with wonderful photographs, timeline and colour charts taking you instantly to Biblical/Christianity/World events as well as Inventions, Technology and Civilizations/Empires.
Well conceived, this is a wonderful reference tool for any homeschool family or budding history major!
Recommended for age 7 thru 12, it is available now both in the soft cover/envelope original format and the hardcover and well worth a recommendation to anyone who needs a quick reference!

Worth 5 stars!

I received this book free from NEW LEAF PUBLICATIONS as part of their Blogger Review program. I was not asked to write a positive review and the opinions expressed are entirely my own.
I am disclosing this in accordance with the FTC 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.

Sunday, January 29, 2012

Sunday Morning And Time Machine...


Sunday morning... 
Another week gone by...

Letters to write...


And the end of the month being near...
Bills to pay...

Time...So precious...
Aristotle speculated Time was motion...
John E. McTaggart proposed that the passage of time is an illusion suggesting that only the present is real ...
Time...Something we shall agree we never seem to have enough of...or do we?...


"We all have our time machines. Some take us back, they're called memories.
Some take us forward, they're called dreams."

~Jeremy Irons~

Blessings to all,

Saturday, January 28, 2012

World of Science, Book review

Book description:

World of Science explores Gods creation all around us, from the furthest star in the Universe to the smallest atom under our feet. Through six accessible sections, children will gain an understanding of the importance of science in our ever-changing world.
This book brings a fresh and engaging approach to all aspects of the subject, while a final section of practical activities and experiments makes the application of science fun and enjoyable.
- Over 800 illustrations and photographs
- Includes over 60 science experiments
- Ideal for home reference and school project work


My review:

"In the beginning God created the Heavens and the Earth."...
Bearing an holographic cover the World of Science is a record of fascinating facts, each section exploring God's creation and thus helping students to get a better understanding of the amazing world around us. 
I  should simply state this is a wonderful book and the perfect addition to any curriculum, leaving it up to you to discover!
With hundreds of illustrations, the World of Science is the perfect tool for teaching homeschoolers or any budding scientist wishing to learn just a little more about science and our ever changing world.

What makes our world so special? Who made these wonderful discoveries and when? And how do we convey to young minds the science revolving all around us?

Here are a few helpful facts included in this special edition:

- Section 1 deals with matter and chemicals and explains items from atoms. molecules, crystals thru composites.
- Section 2 deals with Energy, Motion and Machines.
- Section3 covers Electricity and Magnetism
- Section 4 explains Light and Sound
- Section 5 explains Earth and Life on Earth
- Section 6 covers Space and Time
- Section 7, also the final chapter, includes 60 experiments covering plants and animals, chemistry, air and flight, water, sound, light, energy, forces, electricity and magnetism. These experiments are sure to make class time very enjoyable (since I did not have this hands-on opportunity in school , I just might try a few of these!)

Basic scientific measurements, conversions and derived measurements including a glossary explaining a light year or what is a neutron for quick reference makes it a good choice for any teacher or student.

A World of Science was originally published in 2004, now a joint edition from My Fathers World and Master publications and an amazing way to explore the world of science for the curious mind!

It is worth 5 stars in my book (no pun intended!)

I received this book free from NEW LEAF Publishers as part of their Blogger Review program. I was not asked to write a positive review and the opinions expressed are entirely my own.

I am disclosing this in accordance with the FTC 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.

Friday, January 27, 2012

And The Winners For the Remembering You Holiday Meme Giveaway...


Remember the 'REMEMBERING YOU HOLIDAY MEME GIVEAWAY posted on this blog last Decembre? 
Well, I have just received Tricia Goyer's January 2012 newsletter and you will find the link for all winners names (here).

CONGRATULATIONS TO ALL!!
And a big thank you to Tricia Goyer for the opportunity!

P.S. If you have not yet done so, sign up for her newsletter and more giveaways!
Blessings,