Review: Zen and Sex by Dermot Davis

Summary
Martin, a 24 year old freelance photographer, in between gigs is looking for the perfect muses for his "love project". 
After getting an invitation to his ex girlfriend's wedding, battling over whether he should go, decides to seek out the perfect date to bring. Only one problem, he only has three weeks to find her.  After several attempts, he unexpectedly stumbles upon someone that he just instantly connects with.

He has to grow so fast emotionally that he feels like he just got hit by a speeding bus. Not only is Frances fourteen years Martin's senior, but she's all about putting Zen into relationship, which involves every guy's worst nightmare: talking about your feelings, being conscious of your thoughts and above all, unabashed, honest communication at all times. Martin has no idea what he is getting himself into and the sharp learning curve that's required of him especially when he's in the mood for sex and she wants Zen.

Review
If ever a cliche be true, it would be about this book to not judge it by its' cover. I bet many of you might had thought the same thing and formed the same predictable conclusion. Here's a book that is written by a man and if you skimmed the chapters, you probably already formed an idea what this book was going to be about. I mean, let's be honest. After looking at that picture and reading the title, I was left with some nagging thoughts about what this guy is going to say about romance.
 
This book was not what I thought. It was so better than my initial expectations. I feel this book will appeal to both women and men because there is something each can relate to from it besides your stomach bursting from laughing so much. This was one of those romantic comedies that was just laugh out loud funny at times and just absolutely one of those books that you just want to keep reading not only for its appeal but for its shared experiences to the characters. 

What was enjoyable was that enlightening and refreshing male perspective that he gave to the main character which gave the story such depth, humor and its addictive appeal. Many stories involving romance usually are influenced by women, so it was a very interesting read seeing the story through a guy's point of view. That first person narrative told through the eyes of Martin, really enabled the reader to put yourself in his shoes and really experience his feelings, insecurities, and that it's not just women who want to be in love. Guys have feelings too.

All the characters in the book had their own unique distinction qualities that made them equally enjoyable. Considering the author's screenwriting background, it is so evident how they just seamlessly blended together to get the perfect visual that just leaps from the pages.

The overall book was just the right pace and length and it was definitely easy to follow. Considering that I am one of those very conservative people who hardly ever get it, for me to laugh as much as I did, it must be funny. My advice of caution is to read this alone because you will laugh so much that you might get looks. So, if you want to be entertained and looking for something light and funny, give it a try! I think you'll really enjoy it. 

Reviewed by Michelle Bowles

Book Information
Publisher: CreateSpace Independent Publishing Platform
Release Date: 4/11/13
Pages: 162

Review: A Beautiful Mess by Ali Berlinski

Summary
Biracial and bicoastal, Berlinski spent her childhood flying between the families of her divorced parents, without ever feeling like she fit in anywhere. Fortunately, she never lost her sense of humor, which is apparent on every page of her first book, a riotous and revealing look at the consequences of divorce, too much air travel, cultural diversity and conflicting and conflicted parents. With an open heart and an honest soul, she recounts her somewhat misspent youth and a wildly exciting (though equally torturous) love affair with the guy of her dreams. She loves, she loses and she packs it in, leaving behind the guy, two dysfunctional families, and a comfortable life to move to a foreign country and start all over again. 

She’s Carrie Bradshaw reimagined as a third grade teacher in Brooklyn with zero interest in Manolo Blahniks. She’s a tough New Yorker with a tender twist of California sunshine in her blood that knows when to fight and when to surrender. Her journey will be oddly familiar and utterly unique to anyone who’s ever believed that love would save them—if not with this guy, then maybe with the next.

As her grandfather once said, “Well, it may not be the party you hoped for, but since we’re here, we might as well dance.” So now she lives in Spain and, despite everything, Berlinski keeps on dancing.

Review
If this debut novel sets the precedent of what we have to look forward to from the upcoming books published by Pubslush, than what exceptional talent we have to anticipate. In this well written debut, we are introduced to a new, fresh distinctive voice that draws you into her introspective journey through a life of what she has dubbed her "beautiful mess."

Unlike others memoirs that you have read or will read, this was a different experience. Her story told through a compilations of essays redefined the tradition structure considered for the typical chronological story for a more innovative, creative way of telling it.

What I really enjoyed about reading her book was the way she told her story. From the first chapter, there was an instant connection to her voice. Her witty one liners, her honest, candid reflections of living a life from a biracial and divorced background that embodied the will to defy social expectations not to be defined by her past seamlessly bounds a story that you feel connected as a reader. Intriguing and engaging as the book progressed, she leads the reader on a introspective journey on her life through her experiences with her family, loss, love, and relationships.

As they say, everyone has a story but I think you will enjoy this one. Her writing is beautiful and her story is one that I thought was an enjoyable to read. I think for those who have struggled through a life with parents that have been divorced may find comfort sharing one's experience that shows you are not alone and that you are the determinant of your fate. 

Reviewed by Michelle Bowles

Book Information
Publisher: Pubslush Press
Release Date: 5/14/13
Pages: 228

Review: Pinned by Charles W. Massie

Summary
Mark Casey, a native New York-er and a gentleman, wants to get out of his home state and live in another part of the world. Over the internet, he meets and is attracted to a small town Kentucky woman named Roxie. This woman seems to be the girl of his dreams - sensual, ambitious, funny and beautiful. After a series of email and phone conversations, Roxie invites Mark to visit her in Kentucky. The Meeting is magic. They fall head over heels for each other and decide to live together. 

But like the flip of a switch, there are immediate problems as soon as he gets in his new abode. He and Roxie fight, where they never did before. She constantly tells him lies. There seems to be a black cloud around Roxie, where someone else always gets hurt. And their once raging sexual relationship has turned sour, causing them to sleep apart. What could have caused this abyss? 

This is a true story of flagrant injustice in a small country town. It is a page whipping account of sex, drugs, manipulation, false arrest, corrupt public officials and good ‘ol boys who take rather than give. See what it is like to be trapped in the nest of a Black Widow. Read the story and be Pinned.

Review
One thing for sure after reading this book, I'm glad that I never met anyone online. This is one of those books that becomes the poster child for how meeting someone online could be your worst nightmare. Ok, let me clarify for those who have met people online and have had successful experiences than great but this is absolutely the extreme case scenario.

This story as it was told was based on a true story but seems like it was something straight from a Lifetime Movie. From the beginning, I thought he had a great start to get the reader initially engaged but then it lost that initial spark of anticipating what was going to unfold. Nothing from a quality point of view, just details that didn't seem so relevant which made it a little disengaging at times. About midway through the book I thought it picked up momentum and from there, the story just took off and became very engaging that you didn't want to put it book down. 

I have to say that I struggled a bit with connecting as a reader to certain parts of the book. As I appreciate the disclaimer at the beginning of the book, for myself, (and I only speak for myself) wasn't prepared for the explicit mature encounters in the book.  I understand from the relationship aspect of the book between the two main characters and it would only be human nature for it to be written but much of what was written could've been toned down or written in a different way that might not have had such a strong impact.

Overall, the actual story I thought was definitely interesting. What I thought was very creative and nice for the reader was that the book was divided into two parts and the chapters were labeled in a way where I thought it guided the reader through the story. The characters I thought were clearly defined and as a reader you can connect and follow along without hesitation on where the story is going.

Here is a little bit about a couple of the people that are the center of the book:

Mark is the person from which the perspective of the story is told. He is one of those people that for his age, you'd think he'd have better judgment. He's at a point in his life where he is trying to become financially stable, lives with a friend trying to get his life together. He decides to put up an ad on Craigs list and comes across a woman who seems perfect. He decided to take a chance on her and that decision took him down one drama filled road that led to heartache and injustice.

Roxie is the woman Mark met from the internet. She is every man's worst nightmare. She is the kind of woman that if you were searching for a date, would be someone that would catch your eye but in reality is probably a relative of the characters from Fatal Attraction and Misery. Her black widow web lured Mark in tight on a road of deception and heartache.

One thing that disappointed me was the ending of the book. As a reader, the most frustrating thing especially when you have been engaged anticipating closure to a book to be left so abruptly at a crucial part. The author does explain why and as a result will be wrapped up in another book later that year which as a bonus left for what to look for later. It would've been nice to solve that part of the story first and then move onto the next chapter of the saga, it would've been more fulfilling to anticipate. 

Overall, I think the story is a fascinating one considering some of the objections that I have had towards the book. It's definitely a personal tragedy of the injustice system towards someone whose rights from what was read doesn't seem to have been taken in consideration. This along with the interesting tangled web of love, deception, bad decisions and injustice gave you a drama filled story that no matter how creative you are never could've made this up.

Reviewed by Michelle Bowles

Book Information
Publisher: Outskirts Press
Release: 3/13/13
Pages: 386

Review: Holistic Beauty from the Inside Out by Julie Gabriel

Summary
Celebrated author of The Green Beauty Guide, Julie Gabriel presents a comprehensive yet simple book that brings all four corners of the natural beauty paradigm together: natural skincare, holistic nutrition, stress-relief, and healthy lifestyle. A holistic nutritionist, Gabriel teaches her reader how to 'eat yourself beautiful' using building blocks from a wholesome diet, and as a long-time beauty writer and editor, reveals why beauty-boosting changes to our everyday lifestyles are essential in helping us to discover the allure we are looking for. 

Holistic Beauty from the Inside Out claims that true beauty radiates from inner physical and emotional harmony. Our body is equipped with a full set of tools to maintain and restore our intrinsic assets, and has enormous healing powers to rejuvenate our skin, hair, and nails. The book includes handy and straightforward lists of what products to avoid, what foods to eat, and natural skincare recipes. 

Review
As women, it seems as if we have been taking the same class our entire lives. You know, the class called if you buy this, it can fix that. Chances are, if you are like me than you are tired of buying beauty products to get optimal results that are in the end little to none. All we seem to get are empty wallets and broken promises. Well, I want you to consider something that the author talked about before I continue. How can all these beauty products guarantee you the same optimal results when every woman is not created equal, has different complexions, different lifestyles, different skin textures and more? After reading this book, it has opened my eyes and my mind to a whole new way of possibly remedying this dilemma.

Before I read this book, I must admit if anyone would've asked me about anything in the area of "holistic" anything, I would've stopped you mid-sentence with a strong confirmed not interested reply. Coming into this read with a preconceived judgment and assumptions about what I thought it was, it definitely has proven me otherwise. I must say that not just did I thoroughly enjoy this book but I found a whole new understanding and appreciation for what "holistic beauty" embodies.

For those who might be skeptical, don't be. This is a book that was written by someone who has the background to give the appropriate advice. With everyone trying to be more health conscious and live healthier lives, this book really can help women understand the importance of implementing a healthier lifestyle and how it can enhance your outer beauty. The best part of it was that it just wasn't about information. She included how to and tips that gave women options about products that offer optimal results that have ingredients that are safer compared to the traditional ones with potential harmful ingredients that are used on your hair, skin, and body. She also gave insightful information about nutrition that gave alternatives to really boosting your overall health that as a result over time enhances your overall wellness and outer beauty. 

I appreciate from a reader perspective that with subjects such as this she made it comprehensible and universal. What I thought was very helpful was that in the back of the book, the appendix was probably the best I have ever seen. If you are like me and this is all new to you than use that as your go to guide. 

Here is the little information on what you will get there:

• 100 Toxic Ingredients Found in Beauty Products which is awesome because when you finish reading you will know how and what to look for in products that offer the best options for you
• If you are adventurous or looking to save a little bit on products, she includes some suggestions to get you started with making your own products
• Top foods that enhance your wellness, skin, and hair and nails
• Top ingredients to avoid and ones that benefit your skin
• A comprehensive list of food products that you can green beauty ingredients right from home

I want you to think about something for a moment. If you were shopping, you would search high and low for a new deal right? If you were taking a trip, you would do endless internet searches for the cheapest deal correct? Well, than why don't you take that same drive to find the best ways to optimize your health and wellness? I think this is like no other book you will find. You are not being told to just do this or that from one perspective, you are given the tools and empower to incorporate and find the best options that work for you. Remember, if you don't feel good, there is not product that is going to fix that until you take care of you inside first! If you want a better wholesome life of being beautiful in and out, grab a copy of this book and I guarantee you will not only be on the road to feeling great but you will look look amazing too!

Reviewed by Michelle Bowles

Book Information
Publisher: Seven Press Stories
Release Date:4/30/13
Pages: 288

Review: Keep No Secrets by Julie Compton

Summary
After the ultimate betrayal, which is more important: trust or forgiveness? In KEEP NO SECRETS, the controversial follow-up to Compton's debut legal thriller TELL NO LIES, a district attorney struggles to redeem himself after a one-night stand damaged his marriage and professional reputation.

After surviving the private and public fallout from a one-night stand four years before, St. Louis DA Jack Hilliard wants nothing more than to be trusted again by his wife, Claire, and to earn back the respect of the community he serves. Since the day Claire accepted him back into the family, he's vowed to be true to these goals, and so far he's succeeded.

But all of Jack's efforts begin to crumble when the woman involved in his earlier downfall, Jenny Dodson, returns to town claiming threats on her life and asking for his help, and resurrecting for Jack long-buried emotions and questions of her guilt for the murder of a client. Just when he thinks the pressure can't get any worse, his son's girlfriend, Celeste, accuses him of sexual assault, and he suddenly finds himself on the wrong end of a criminal case, battling for his freedom.

Can Jack trust his freedom to the legal system on which he built his career? Or will the ghost of his one-night stand four years before come back to haunt him, causing him to be convicted on the mistakes of his past?

Review
When it comes to sequels, you never know what to expect. Not having read Julie's preceding book "Tell No Lies" I am so sorry I missed out. I say that because "Keep No Secrets" was such a great read that I feel like I have to go back to see what details I missed out on. Not having read her first book, I really think she did a great job writing this one. Don't worry if you didn't get a chance to read the first one yet, this book had enough information to stand on it own. I feel confident that we were given enough information to get a great picture from what she wrote.

I mean, talk about page turner. I don't think my fingers could move fast enough. This was one of those books that grabs you and makes you sit down and want to read. It had so many twists and turns to the story that you don't know how to feel. From the first chapter throughout the book, the story was just so engaging that as each layer was unraveled, you wanted to know what was going to happen next. It had everything you need to salivate in a thriller. You had a little romance, suspense, deception, and characters that you really can dive into. 

From a reader perspective, she really made this book come alive. Each character had their own distinctive voice that enabled you to connect emotionally and that vulnerability drew you in that made the story so addictive. What I really appreciate and respect is her authenticity and courage for how she wrote the story line that dealt with the issues that teetered the moral compass. With the issue of adultery in this book, I respect how she didn't glorify it but really showed from all perspectives the impacts and imperfections of choices people make in life. 

Here's a little bit of the characters to get you started:

Jack - No matter how much you want to hate him for what he did with Jenny and to his family, you will find yourself in conflicting emotions towards him throughout the book. He is married to Claire and has two children, Jaime and Michael. Regaining his credibility with the community after a huge trial that exposed his brief affair with Jenny, Jack tries to move on with life and put his past behind him. One day everything changed when his son's girlfriend made accusations about him that not only brought the past back but put him on a journey to prove not only his innocence but fight for his life and family.

Claire - Who wouldn't feel for her? She is the wife of Jack who was publicly humiliated from a secret that was exposed that changed their lives. After claiming she put all this behind her, Jenny's return to town along with Jack's current situation has ignited old scars that put their marriage and trust to the test. 

Michael - The son of Claire and Jack has some unresolved feelings about what happened to their family. After coming home with his girlfriend one night drunk, his dad offered to take her home unknowing what was to come. Keeping secrets of his own and after finding out what his girlfriend did, he battles allegiance to her versus his father's and his fight for innocence.

Celeste - She is the girlfriend of Michael who has a striking resemblance to the woman his father had an affair with. Holding onto a devastating secret of her own, she is driven to the unthinkable with consequences that shatter the core of the Hilliard family. 

Jenny - On the trial of the murder of her father's mistress, the secret of their affair came out and had consequences that affected the Hilliard family. Upon return on the heels of the biggest fight for Jack's life brings up old wounds that depending on which way you think either help or hurt. 

Overall, I think if you are looking for a good suspense book, this will be a great read. Despite any personal feelings towards certain subject matters of the book, it was a well written and has that definite can't put it down quality to it. I think you should add this one to your suspense and thriller list! I know you won't be disappointed.

Reviewed by Michelle Bowles

Book Information
Publisher: Fresh Fork Publishing
Release Date: 3/12/13
Pages: 344

Review: The Last Sewer Ball by Steven Schindler

Summary
More than ten years after the publication of Steven Schindler’s cult classic novel, SEWER BALLS, Whitey, Vinny, and the rest of the kids from the block return in the “sort of sequel” follow up, THE LAST SEWER BALL.

What’s a sewer ball?  It’s what you go after when you can’t afford to buy a ball to play stickball with. Your best friend holds you by the ankles and lowers you upside down into the sewer manhole, with a bent coat hanger so you can fish out balls that other kids were too lazy or too chicken to go after. And believe me, he better be your very best friend!

It started on the stoops and playgrounds of the Bronx in the 1960s. Kids with more imagination than money grew up fast playing street games, rocking to a new band called The Beatles, sneaking beers into the stands and inventing make-out games like kiss-o-leario. But as the years flew by, life on those streets went from being fun and games to dead serious. 

Vinny is on a quest to track down Whitey after decades apart, to find out what really happened to the friendship they thought would last forever. Could family tragedies, a war, and even murder, break a bond that was forged long before eighth grade graduation? Vinny may have fallen on hard times, but a grammar school reunion sets in motion a journey to find his long-lost friend. Secrets that have been simmering since childhood bubble to the surface and eventually explode, when past and present collide with not-so-instant karma.

Review
If you are of a certain age and whether you lived in the city or suburbs, this is one of those books that will bring some nostalgia back to the days when kids really connected and made lifelong friendships. Forget about now, with every kid connected to a device with one word phrases substituting interpersonal communications. They don't even know who their neighbor is. That innate ability to instantly connect and make lifelong friendships with people that have substance and longevity seem forever gone. One of those sentiments shared in life that seems today like a pastime is of that feeling that no matter how much time passes, that connection comes rushing back as if time stood still.

I thought the author did a good job capturing that sentiment with the story written. People that know and understand this can really appreciate this story. Even though the story centered in a city, I think anyone can appreciate the value for the love and loss of a friendship. This story who centers around the characters Vinny and Whitey, really captured that purity of having a friend that no matter how much time passes, when you reconnect it’s as if time stood still. 

As a reader, you are taken through the point of view of Vinny Schmidt who takes us on his journey from youth on the city block in the Bronx through the adulthood trying to reconnect with his past. Well written with engaging characters, I enjoyed how he paralleled the story. Each chapter alternated between the past and current. I felt as you read the story this way it gives you an appreciation and better understanding of the characters and the development of the story better. You really feel both the past and present as if you were experiencing their lives with them. 

I don't want to give away too much because this is one of those stories that if you give away too much details, it will take away from it becoming full circle in the end. What I will tell you is that as read about the friendship that develops between Whitey and Vinny and that quest once life goes and to rekindle it, it will make you appreciate and reflect on your own life and appreciate the time we have with others. This is a story that represents friendship, loss, life and a testament of how we all are determinants of our own fate.

Reviewed by Michelle Bowles

Book Information
Publisher: The Elevated Press
Release Date: 6/11/13
Pages: 320