Sunday, December 21, 2014

Andi Under Pressure by Amanda Flower


Andi Under Pressure, written by Amanda Flower, is the second book in a mystery series for young readers. The story begins with Andi Boggs, a bright 12 year old, attending a science camp with her friend Colin Carter.  Strange things have been happening at the camp and Andi is determined to discover what is going on. I enjoyed the fact that Andi is a strong, likable young lady whose able to constantly rise to the occasion.  She and her older sister, Bethany, recently lost their parents in a tragic accident yet Andi manages to maintain a positive attitude in her life.  I liked the friendship she had with Colin Carter and his sweet Pug, Jackson. I also found the cast of characters intriguing with lots of secrets waiting to be answered. Ava Gomez makes a compelling "villain" with a huge chip on her shoulder! The story is intelligent, engaging, and fast paced.  I'm hoping my 12 year old falls in love with the Andi Boggs series!

*I was given a copy of this book by BookLook Bloggers in exchange for my honest opinion.  No other compensation was received.*

Monday, December 15, 2014

The Nesting Place- the imperfectly delightful book for everyone!


The Nesting Place, (It doesn't have to be Perfect to be Beautiful) by Myquillyn Smith frees the anxious decorator with these words "...Giving up on perfection isn't a failure.  It's a gift."  As I read the pages of her incredibly inspiring, funny, and illustrated (yes!  I LOVE pictures!) book filled with personal stories of embracing the "not so perfect".  My shoulders relaxed, my mind was inspired and I began to dream.  "Homes are happiest when they're being used."  Amen.

Can you tell that I took notes while I read this book?  I sure did.  All while I was on the treadmill!  I didn't want to forget a thing.  So much inspiration and helpful tips!  The Nesting Place would make the perfect gift for any home owner- and renter! (the author rents!).  It would make a lovely wedding present, teacher gift, new graduate gift, etc.  It's the blessing of loving where you are, finding the beauty in what you have and living life right. now.  

The chair on the book cover has 3 legs.  3.  Looks pretty incredible, don't you think?  Wait until you see the masking tape wall in her bedroom.  Gorgeous.  You'll be visiting Goodwill and vintage shops on a regular basis after reading this wonderful book.  If you have a truck, we can go together!

Myquillyn Smith has a gift for writing, decorating and family as well as a heart for Christ.  She's the real deal.  At the end of her book we travel with her to meet her sponsored child.  What a lovely way to complete the quest for beauty.  "Once we realize that the goal is not having a perfect home, we can create a beautiful home out of freedom instead of fear." Bless yourself and others with The Nesting Place.  It's imperfectly delightful- as life should be.

*I was given a copy of this book from BookLook Bloggers in exchange for my honest opinion.  No other compensation was received.*