Have you read Two of A Kind?

I finished Two of a Kind the other night. I loved it. It is one of my favorites. Felicia is a great character, who is very smart, tells you what she is thinking. Not many of us does that. She is very honest. Felicia just wants to fit in. Gideon went through he'll and back, but will he realize what is really important before it's too late?

This book is a great read! I highly recommend it.  Let me know if you buy it and tell me what you think of it.

Melissa

Blog Hop over at All About Fool's Gold!

I am hosting a Blog Hop for Two of a Kind over at my other Blog, All About Fool's Gold.  Come Join Us.  Click HERE.

Melissa

Reading Challenge: All He Ever Dreamed by Shannon Stacey

For this Review, I picked All He Ever Dreamed by Shannon Stacey.  It is in a series called Kowalski Family.  This is Book #6.  I have read all of them, but Book #5.  This was a Library e-book.  This book was about Josh Kowalski, who ran Northern Star Lodge with Rosie, who is Katie's Mom.  Katie is a childhood friend & he started to see her differently without the book.

The Northern Star Lodge is a Bed and Breakfast where people go to stay to go snowmobiling and sledding.  I love series because we learn more about the characters from the previous books.  What they have been up to?  Did they have babies?  If they did, what are their names?  

I love this book because it is about choices.  Josh never made the choice for his life.  He wanted change.  He wanted to make his own choice for his life.  What will this choice be?  Read the book to find out.  Will Katie be in his life?  

I highly recommend this book.  It is a very good book.  

Keep on Reading!!
Melissa

Reading Challenges- One in a Million

For this review, I chose "One in a Million" by Susan Mallery.  It is about a mom, Stephanie Wynne, of 3, who has a Bed & Breakfast.  Her husband died.  One day a handsome guest, Nash Harmon, came into her Bed & Breakfast to meet his family he just found out he has.  His twin, brother, Kevin, was also there, to meet them, too.  He is engaged to Haley.

Spoiler Warning: If you have not read this book, stop!  Read the book before reading the rest of my review!!

I am confused about the family history.  I think I can get it straight.  Nash was there to meet family he did not know he had- the Haynes brothers & 1 sister.  
*Craig is the oldest, his wife, Jill, & 5 kids.  
*Travis married to Elizabeth & 4 girls.  
*Jordan married to Holly & have 3 girls.  
*Kyle married to Sandy & have 4 girls & 1 boy. 
*Hannah is married  & had a baby girl 6 weeks earlier.
*Austin Lucas, a Adopted member of the family, married to Rebecca & have 3 boys & 1 girl.  
*Gage & Quinn was also their half brothers & their mother was Edie Reynolds, who helped  Nash & Kevin's mom out & took them all to Possum Landing. (Gage & Quinn are best friends with Nash & Kevin).  Gage is engaged.  Quinn was not there.

Their father, Earl Haynes, is in FL with wife number six or seven.    I would never throw my child out the door with my grandchild (Look kiddos, you have it in writing!).  I would help them, but they would have to have a job, stay in school (if they are in school), & help around the house.   I would want to know my grandchild.  There are some grandparents that don't have that opportunity because of their parent(s) keep that child away from them.

Nash's Hayne's brothers feel if they were not in love then they would not have any girls.  Well, with Craig, Travis, Jordan, & Kyle, they all have girls!  So, I say the theory is correct.

I love how Nash helped Stephanie around the B&B.  First, the washing machine.  Then, getting their old gatehouse so her & the kids could move into it before they got busy.  No more telling the kids to be quiet on the third floor with guests below them.  Nash  had "grown up with a single mom & knew how hard that life could be."  I think this is how Nash was raised for the way he is with Stephanie, helping her with around the B&B, & he got his family to help finish the old gatehouse.  How sweet is that!

All of the Haynes kids & the Harmon kids are in law enforcement, except for Jordan is a firefighter.  It is weird how Nash & his brother never knew they had other family & they ended up in the same field as their half siblings. Kevin is a US Marshall.  Nash is a FBI negotiator.  Gage is a Sheriff.   Hannah is in the communications in the Sheriff's office.

I think my favorite part of the book besides 1 part (I will get to this one later) is when the kids are doing their homework at the table & Nash was there, too.  Nash listened as if he really was interested in what the kids had to say.  He was thinking about when him & Kevin were kids doing their homework & their mom was working, but Kevin would go out to play.  Kevin would fight with their mom & Nash would go to his room to read.

Stephanie told Nash that "there's no way I would ever get married again, so the odds of another child seem slim."  Nash thought Stephanie's "reluctance to marry again didn't matter to him. Not one bit."  I think it does.  He thought it twice!!  Stephanie does not want get married again because of the way her husband treated her.  (What to know then read the book!!)  Not only was the reason for her feeling for not getting married was because of her being responsible when she was growing up.  Her parents were artists, focused on each other, & their art.   They did not pay the bills.  Stephanie had to do it that along with getting food.

I love how Nash invited Stephanie & the kids to go with him when he met the entire family crew.  Nash had to be nervous.  Think about memorizing all those names.  There has to be more than 30 people.

I love how Brett was being overprotective of his mom about Nash.  He was afraid Nash would replace his dad.  She told him that Nash is a guest here.  Which means his home is somewhere else and he is going to be leaving us in a couple weeks.  In the meantime, he's nice, he cleans up after himself and I like having another grown-up to talk to.  Nothing more.  Okay?"  Brett is a bright kids, worried about his mom, & afraid everyone in his family will forgot about his dad.  Nash was seen as a threat to him.  Brett asked his mom once if she still loves his dad.  She repeated the same thing as before, but with less words.    Brett wanted to know "Why?  Why can't you just love dad?"  Stephanie said "Because he's gone."  I love how she used if you really care if this girl, will you still love your brother?  Then, she added herself in there.  My favorite quote for Stephanie is "The human heart has the capacity to love as many people as we want to let into our lives.  If I start dating or not, nothing about my feeling for you, the twins or even Dad are going to change.  There's more than enough room for everyone."  Brett is worried about his mom dating someone else & not being in love with his dad.

When Brett caught Nash kissing his mom, he ran out.  Nash asked to talk to Brett.  Nash was once in his shoes when his mom married his stepdad, Norman.  Nash explained to him that he is going back to Chicago in a couple weeks where he lives & work. Nash also told him about his mom marrying Norman & how he felt about that.  Brett says to Nash "But you shouldn't kiss her where just anyone can see.  My brothers wouldn't understand.  They don't remember Dad much & they might think you're sticking around."  I think Brett is older than he seems.  He makes a good point to Nash! 

The twins are funny!  When they were arguing over who folded the laundry, each said that the other did it last time.  I think she needs a chore chart for each of the kids so they know exactly what chore they have to do each day.  We do that here.  Ashleigh knows she feeds the cats every morning.  Noah takes care of his puppy.  There are items done on certain days.  I love how Nash tries to help her.  He is right by working together they would get done a lot faster. 

Nash's mom, Vivian, & stepdad, Norman, came to the B&B, too.  Vivian wanted to help in the kitchen, too, just like her son.  Howard wanted Nash to be with Stephanie.  I love the talk that Howard & Nash had.  Nash knew that Howard is not a bad man.

How sweet is Nash!  He let her sleep in, made breakfast for his mom, step dad, & the boys.  She thought to herself "Sense or not, Nash's actions touched her in a way nothing had for years.  Maybe ever.  He'd taken care of her.  Just like that, with no expectation of getting something back.  She hadn't known that men like him existed.  He made her feel she could count on him."

Brett's opinion about Nash changed after he had his family help with the old gatehouse.  Brett wanted him to stay & he wanted his mom to ask him to stay.  Totally different than from before.  

My favorite quote from Nash is "I want to change the rules.  I don't want to be a temporary guest.  I don't want to leave.  I want to make things complicated and messy and permanent.  I love you, Stephanie.  I love you in ways I've never loved anyone before.  I want to marry you and grow old with you.  I want us to have one of those marriages that makes young couples sigh with envy.  I want to have a baby with you.  If the legend is true, you'll get the girl you want."

I hope you enjoyed my review of "One in a Million."  This is a great book.  I really loved it.
Keep Reading!!
Melissa


P.S. Something for you
1.  Where did Nash grew up?
2. Who was the math person? Nash or Stephanie.
3.  Why did Nash have to go on vacation?
4. Who was Tina to Nash?
5. How did Tina die?
6.  What is your favorite part of the book & why?

Reading Challenge: The Next Best Thing

For this Reading Challenge, I chose The Next Best Thing by Kristan Higgins.  I loved it.  It has been awhile since I have read a book by Kristan Higgins.  I have 3 library cards & I used them for e-books.  Only 1 library card I go into to get actual books.  If you can get e-books, I suggest doing it if you can.  If you are in PA, on the back of your library card you should have a blue sticker, that sticker you can get another library card for free.

I kept thinking during this book: How would I feel if I lost my husband, was surrounded by my aunts, who lost their husbands, & my mom lost her husband, my dad?  Think about what that would do to myself/yourself.  Your aunts lost their husbands & now your lost yours.  You have to pick up the pieces of your life & move on with your life.

In the beginning of the book, we meet Lucy, her sister, Corinne, who just had a baby,  with her husband,  Chris.  Lucy tells us that "Corrine lives in terror that her seemingly healthy husband is on the brink of death." (Kindle Page 36).   Corrine is so scared of turning into Lucy that she is driving her husband crazy. Lucy tells us that "given the Black Widow curse, men were scarce in my (her) life.  I (her) had no uncles, no grandfathers, no brothers....." (Kindle Page 48).  Growing up like this would be completely different than most of us has.  Do you have a grandfather or 2, uncles(s), brother(s)?  I do for all of them.  Think about how those men influenced your life.

Lucy's late, husband, Jimmy's parents are still in Lucy's life.  Gianni & Marie are wonderful.   I love how Gianni & Marie treat Lucy. But, I think they think Jimmy walks on water while Ethan is not as good.  I think each child needs to be treated equally.  Marie says "We wanted you here because we love you like you're our own daughter, Lucy, honey.  And Ethan, of course, you're like a son of us." (Kindle Page 106)

I think this book is about family.  Lucy has her family around her after she loses her husband.  Her brother in law, Ethan, helps her, too, along with her mother in law, Marie, & her father in law, Gianni.   Lucy also has her friend, Parker, by her side, but I consider her family.  You would definitely need your friends & family to help you through a loss like this. I also think this book is about following your dreams, but I am not going to say anything else just in case you did not read the book!! ;)  Go after what you want!!


Reading this book makes me miss my favorite bakery.  I was talking with a friend about it tonight.  Their cakes were so good.  I can not remember when they closed it.  It was a tradition in my family to have one of their cakes for our birthdays.  I started that some tradition with my kids.  When Lucy, her mom, & her aunts was in their bakery, Bunny's, it brought back memories of my favorite bakery.


I love the ending!  Once again, I am not going to say what happened for those who did not read it.  I love that we know what happened beyond that.  I highly recommend this book if you are looking for a good read!

Until my next review,
Melissa

Reading Challenge- Catch of the Day

For this review, I chose Catch of the Day by Kristan Higgins. This was a very good book. I love it!  I felt so back for Maggie the entire way through the book.  Date after date this poor girl went on.  It did not go well.  Why doesn't it is my question?  Why doesn't these guy like Maggie?  

Spoiler Warning: If you have not read this book, stop!  Read the book before reading the rest of my review!!

I do not blame her for the whole priest situation.  He did not try hard enough.  They were in a crowded restaurant & she was working.  How was she to have heard him say he was a priest?  He introduced himself as "Tim O'Halloran. A pleasure it is to meet you"  What priest introduces himself this way?  Majority of priest I have met (I will come to this part in a second) have introduced themselves as Father so & so.  I am Catholic & I have gone to a Catholic Elementary School from Kindergarten to 8th grade.  I have never met one that introduced himself as Tim.  Maggie did what a normal lady, who was looking for a husband, did.  She told her sister.  They did not even know who he was.  Not until the day in church.  They were told Father Morris was retiring & some new guy was filling in.  No name.  The only time Tim used Father was in Church when he told everyone.  He should had told Maggie that when he first met her.  Then, she would not had a crush on him.

I love how Maggie takes care of the lady downstairs.  Her name is Mrs Kandinsky or Mrs K.  She is Maggie's tenant.  Maggie will bring her food home from the diner.  Maggie is the only person she sees.  So very sad.  Her children are all out of state & are all aging themselves. 

Colonel is a great dog!  Followed her everywhere Maggie went!  He reminds me of Zeus, but I need a leash for Zeus because huskies runaway!   I loved how Maggie took Colonel everywhere she went.  I wish I could do that with Zeus especially with his separation anxiety.  It was so sad at 58% into the book (Kindle).  I am not going to say what.  Everyone was so thoughtful, but 1 person.  Again I am not going to say who!  


Maggie's dates: (Not all was a disaster)
1. Roger Martin- I did not like him at all.  He ate like a PIG!!  He is a nurse.  Shouldn't he have more manners?  Maggie thought to herself why would he needed to be fixed up!  He liked being a nurse because of the overtime, benefits, & 401K.  What about his patients?  I would not want him to be my nurse.  I would call the head nurse & ask for a new nurse!  I mean it!  If I was in there to have a baby, I would want a nice nurse & if he was not nice, bye bye you would go!!  I had this happen with my daughter!  First date & he wanted to eat Maggie's food!  Rude!  Roger "communicates with animals who have passed." But, he could not get anything right about Maggie.  He is not that good if you ask me!  Mammal!  Really.  You are guessing a mammal.  Then, Roger leaves her with the check.  Not even enough money for his half.  Cheap skate!  
2. Oliver Wachterski- His hernia popped out & he blamed it on Maggie.  I re-read this part 3 times & I do not see how it is Maggie's fault.  He must of moved wrong.  Then, he wanted her to "pop" it back into place.  Hey, if you do not "know" the man intimately, would you do it?  He was definitively not the One!
3. Albert Mikrete- This date went well, but I am not going to tell you anymore than that. You need to read about this date.  He was charming, but there was one thing that was wrong!  
4. Doug Andrews- a widower, but he could not get himself to the date so Malone filled in for him because Skip Parkinson, the boyfriend from high school, & Annabelle sat down at Maggie's table to torment her.  I swear they did it on purpose.  They have 3 kids & 1 on the way.   Of course, Skip asked Maggie if she wanted to see a picture.

Malone came through for Maggie & she was not expecting it!  He kissed her that night she had that blind date with Doug!  She had a lot of unknowns with Malone.  Father Tim was going to suggest Malone.    Malone does not talk much.  Why is that?  Maggie is wondering who the young beautiful woman Malone was with in front of her diner.  I know, but you need to read the book to find out! There was a few conflicts between Malone & Maggie.  After Malone found out about something, he went to Maggie & did something really sweet for her.  

Maggie's mom has some strange saying like this one "A rolling stone gathers no dirt."  Maggie doesn't even have to say anything to her because she knows what she will say like this: "You need to stop lighting your fire under a bushel."  Another thing Maggie's mom would say is "Fools rush in where angels fear to bed." Maggie is a nice girl & she has a bad luck when it comes to meeting a guy.  Her mom put too much pressure on her about meeting someone.  What about Christy being Perfect?  This is a big issue for Maggie.  Christy is married, has a baby, & has the life that Maggie so badly wants.  Christy is her twin sister & she is married because their mom introduced Will to Christy & not Maggie!!    If I remember correctly, Christy is a social worker.  Her mom is not making this any easier on her.  I love how Maggie told her mom off!!  It is my favorite Maggie phrase: "I'm sick of you disapproving of me, sick of you telling me that my life is a dead end, sick of you comparing me to Christy & her perfect life.  Get out.  Come back when you can act like a mother who loves all her children."  She needs to back off or one day she may not have her daughter!   I can not believe that Maggie's mom did not want her to have her own dog when her heart was broken over Skip.  I loved how her dad got her Colonel to help her get over Skip, but all her mom was worried about was fleas, lice or something else.  What does that tell you about her mother?  I would be comforting my daughter.  I think I would be the one to go get her the dog or taking her to go get her one!  

Chantel is a friend of Maggie.  I am not going to say much about her, but I am going to leave some questions.  Do you believe what Maggie thought?  Do you believe that Malone could had been the one?  I did not.  I believed it was Jonah.  I even have it written in my notes of my Kindle app!  Chantel only went to Malone because he told her in high school that he would be a shoulder to cry on.  I have learned that not everything is what is appears to be.  Maggie needs to see that.  

I love the speech Maggie gave to Malone!  Then, Emory, his daughter said to him "What was that all about?  I love the ending!  Read the book to find out!  You knew I was going to say that right!  

Keep on Reading!
Melissa

P.S. Something for you:

1. What are the reasons for Maggie being Mrs K food home?  
2. Who was fixing Maggie up on these dates & why?
3.  What was wrong with Albert Mikrete?

4. How kids does Skip Parkinson have with Annabelle?  Names?  
5.  Why couldn't Doug go on the date with Maggie? 
6.  Do you think Maggie grew up some during this book?  
7. Are you okay with what happened with Maggie's parents?

Reading Challenges- The Lucky One

For this review, I chose The Lucky One by Nicholas Sparks.  I have wanted to read this for a long well, but when it came out as a movie, I knew I had to read it before I saw it!   I am trying to see if my husband will take me to see this morning if we can find a sitter.  I think it will be a good date movie. 

Have you read the book and/or saw the movie yet?  

                                                                 
 

Spoiler Warning: If you have not read this book, stop!  Read the book before reading the rest of my review!!

This book reminded me how I met my husband.  No photograph was involved, but it was a blind date by friends of my.  Shawn was friends with them, too.  Turned out to be the right blind date.  My first one & last one!  I love how Nicholas Sparks writes this book with the main characters: Logan, Beth, & Keith (the Deputy or Beth's ex-husband).

Can a photo in this situation give you good luck? I wonder if Beth thought about how Logan walking into her life that first time would change her life completely.  

The first time we meet Logan Thibault is when the Deputy & him ran into each other when Logan was hiking with his dog, Zeus.  I love that Zeus is a German Shepherd. I love the name, too, but maybe it has to do with us having our own Zeus.  Not a German Shepherd, but a husky!  I love how Logan took something from Deputy Clayton.  What did Logan take & who did he give it to minus what part?  Are you with me so far?  I am so glad that Logan did what he did.  A deputy/Sheriff/police office, etc should not be doing what this one was doing.  Not right at all.  Very very wrong.  

We learned that his mother worried about him.  Us moms are very good at that.  "He called every few days to let her own he was doing okay, and usually, after hanging up, he would think that he wasn't being fair to her.  He'd already been gone for much of the past five years, and before each of his three tours in Iraq, he's listened as she's lectured into the phone, reminding him not to do anything stupid." (page 30, but e-book)  If a son of my wanted to join the military, I will not be happy, but I would not put up a fight.  It is their life & their choice. Then, when he came home, he wanted to walk across the country.  What would I say?  I would tell him to be safe & to call me.  I would worry.  I think it was a way for Logan to fit in once he came back from his third tour. 

"It's hard at times, but it makes a kid strong in ways that most people can't understand.  Teaches them that even though people are left behind, new ones will inevitably take their place; that every place has something good-and bad--to offer.  It makes a kid grow up fast." (pg 39 e-book)  I think this is a powerful statement.  It is talking about Logan's dad being a Marine, his dad's transfer, & losing his father to a heart attack.  Logan lost his dad when he was 15 years old.

I like the character, Victor.  Logan's friend that he meets when he is a Marine.  Victor belives that this photo is "lucky." Victor said that "Dawn is a powerful time of the day." (pg 45 e-book)  He also said it is a sign, that she is your good-luck charm.   I love these 2 quotes-- "It is your destiny" & "you're meant to be together" (pg 290) talking about the photo.  Poor Logan to see his friend die like that.  No wonder Logan had to go find the lady in the photo since he lost the best friend he ever had.  

Ben is a good kid.  Her mom divorced his dad.  His dad, Keith Clayton, is not nice at times to him.  Making him clean his home or do the dishes.  They could do it together.  Then, there is more time to spend together.  Keith is not happy his son wants to learn to play the violin.  I love how Ben connected with Zeus.  Zeus loved to have Ben play with him.  Playing ball or throwing a stick for Zeus to bring back.  It did not matter to Zeus as long as they spent time together.  Their bond was special.  I love how Zeus can track Ben down when he was hiding.  

Logan "wanted a dog with strong, working bloodlines, and if that's what you want, you'll usually find the best dogs in Germany.  Logan got Zeus in Germany because of obedience, but also tracking & protection.  Logan did the research when he got his dog.  When I met my husband, Shawn, he had this great German Shepherd.  His name was Duke.  I remember the first time I met Shawn & Duke.  Shawn wants to get a German Shepherd, but we have 2 huskies!!

The other day I saw this on Facebook.  In the book, "Last year, her ex had stood on the sidelines on soccer games with a scowl on his face, which was a reason Ben didn't want to play." (pg 59 e-book)  So, anyways I shared this photo on my Facebook.  

 

Noah told me the other day the one kid that was on his soccer team (they switch teams because not enough coaches) told him that they need to win.  Noah told him that is there is more to soccer than winning.  Having fun!  I am so proud of him.  We are in a new soccer association & our old one told the kids that playing soccer is all about having fun!  I wrote this: 

When kids are playing baseball or soccer, us parents have to remember they are kids not adults. We need to be good on the side lines. Cheer on our child, but also everyone on our child's team along with the other team. If we see someone do something good like get a soccer goal (my son plays soccer) then we cheer "Get goal" or if that child misses a goal & the other team scores. We say "You will get the next one." It helps that child feels better. It is not all about winning. It is about playing the game they love. They need to remember that every time they play or they won't play anymore because their parent is screaming at them. So, the next time you are on the sideline think about what you are going to say to your child & your child's teammates! You can be kicked out of the sidelines. The soccer association or the school soccer teams has rules on this! We need to be good role model for our children.

Beth did everything she can for her son, Ben, but Keith did not.  He was stubborn, opinionated.  "He wanted a certain kind of son, and by God, he was going to get him."  What in the hell does this mean?  You can not make a child play baseball or soccer if they do not want to especially if a parent is screaming on the sideline.  When Beth told Logan to get the crank-handled ice cream maker, I thought of my stand mixer.  Beth said "Perfectly.  Amazing, isn't it?  Nana got that as a gift for her wedding, but we still use it all the time.  It makes delicious ice cream."  My stand mixer just broke in February.  It was a wedding gift, too.   We received it from Shawn's Nana.  I always felt like she was here when I was baking.

I can not stand when someone says "he was babysitting" his son.  Keith wasn't babysitting since the child is HIS son.  I can not stand Keith!  Keith has been negative a lot.  What is it that is said about negative people?  I can not remember right now, but they aren't happy themselves.  I like calm people.  No yelling or screaming, but calm.  I think it is important for kids to grow up in that kind of environment.  I do not like him at all.  I do not like how Keith scared away all of the men Beth was dating & how he used being a deputy to get to them.  I hope he knows that Logan will not be scared of that.  When they first met, Keith mentioned that Logan was not phrased by him.  Logan's a Marine!  Why would he?  He was in Iraq!  He has seen things that most of never will.  He is not going anywhere.  haha!   Who was Keith to interfere with by who Beth dates?  It's up to her.  Not him.  He's an ---! Fill in the blank!  He says this is caring!  I call this he doesn't want anyone else to have his ex-wife, but him.  Go Logan!   Another thing Keith is a poor loser.  What's he teaching his son?  Keith has said so many times that he's going to get Logan.  I don't see that happening since Logan is a trained Marine, one that has killed people.  This Keith is a Deputy.  Probably got the job because of his daddy.  He shouldn't be a deputy because he's a criminal.  He broke into Logan's home.  I think Keith has anger issues.  

I wonder when Beth & Logan started dating how that affected Keith.  I don't think he would be too happy.  He wanted him gone.  Compared to Keith, Logan is great.  I bet Ben thinks that, too.  I bet Ben thinks Logan is a lot more fun than his own daddy!! Logan does not yell at Ben like his own dad does.  Mmm, who would you want to spend time with?  I choose Logan!!

I love Nana!  I love her metaphors!

1. "It's a like candy on battleship" (pg 202) talking about her going to visit her sister.  I think she left on purpose so Beth & Logan could get to know each other better!

2. "Cleaning to me is like being naked to a monkey." (pg 481)

3. "You were better than a duck on a stick" (pg 493)

4. "You might as well be sitting on the front porch picking petals off a daisy." (pg 504)

5. "Kitty cats and maple trees" (pg 564)

I think Logan walking across the country to find the woman in the photo was something that he had to do.  I think Logan was lost.  I also think that getting a job in the kennels is his "calling."  He is great with Zeus.  He trained him.  I wish he could train Bolt.  Either him or Beth's grandma. When Logan tells Nana that Zeus "wouldn't react well to long separations." (pg 165 e-books) I was thinking separation anxiety, but they nearly all their time together.  Zeus does sound like our Zeus on page 212 when he "trotted ahead of them, checking every now and then to make sure they were following.  Logan is teaching Ben good things.  He is calm with him, takes the time to listen to him, & they talked a lot.  Logan "wasn't trying to impress Ben or impress her (Beth) by showing her how well he could get along with Ben." (pg 267)  Ben loved spending time with Logan, but Logan loved spending time with Ben.  

We learned more about the photo that Logan found it.  It was Drake's, Beth's brother.  He was there, too.  Drake lost it.  The photo was taken the last weekend they spent together before he joined.   Drake had it laminated & kept it with him.  Drake lost it in Iraq & emailed her to send a new one, but she never did.  He died before she got a chance to.

I love how Logan tells Keith that he will be a better person.  He gives Keith 3 things or he will go to the paper or his daddy with the disc. 1. Stay out of Beth's business.  2. Stay out of Logan's business.  3.  "If you take your anger at me out on Ben, you'll have to answer to me." (page 476).  I love these.  I love that someone finally put Keith in his place.  I love how he put Ben in one of the 3 conditions! Go Logan!!  My favorite quote of Logan said to Clayton is "Know this; You've never met someone like me before.  You don't want me as an enemy."

What did Ben want to be when he grew up?

A. Astronaut

B. Fireman

C. Doctor

D. Teacher

E. All, but which one?

My favorite Nana quote is "He was a wonderful man.  And when a man is that special, you know it sooner than you think possible.  You recognize it instinctively, and you've certain that no matter what happens, there will never be another one like him." (pg 509)

Keith went to see Beth at her school to tell her about Logan & the photo for 1 reason.  To get rid of him.  He did not want Logan in his ex-wive's life or his son's life.  When Keith was telling her about the photo, he was lying to make sure she would get rid of him.  "I don't think I did, but I didn't tell you that I did talk to some of them."--Talking about the men Beth dated & him talking to them.  He lied there.  He talked & scared ALL of them.  I love this quote of Keith's--"You probably consider it an intrusion into your personal life"   (pg 540)  What would you call it?  It is an intrusion into her personal life.  He has no right.  He can not pick who's in her life, who she dates, who she marries, etc.  Keith set the stage so Beth could walk back into his bed.  He is sweet talking her, too.  Yuck!  I love how Beth answers him back "Do you honestly expect me to believe you have my best interests at heart after admitting you're been spying on me for years?" (pg 542) Go Beth!!

Beth confronted Logan like Keith wanted him to.  It was his plan.  After awhile Beth & Logan made up.  I am not going to tell you how, why.  Read the book!!  Both Nana & Ben helped Beth.  Keith is not happy.  

I do not like at the end of the book where Keith threatens Beth.  That he wants her to kiss him, go out with him whenever he wants or he will take their son from him.  Walks in Ben saying "I'm not going to do it!" Then, he runs out the door in a bad rain storm.  Rain caused from a hurricane, but of course, Keith said, "He'll be fine.  I want to make sure you're clear on how things are going to go with us." (pg 604)  Love love what Beth says to Keith.  "Get the hell out!" & "I am so sick of you & your family telling me what I can & can't do, & I'm not going to put up with it anymore!" (pg 604)  GO BETH!!  Keith is not a good dad at times.  It is flooding, but he wants to continue fighting with Beth.  The pages in the book about the tree house had me on the edge of my seat.  I was so worried. Ben in the water.  I am not going to say more, but Read the book!  I thought something else about the way the book these pages on the tree house pages until I got to the cemetery pages.  I just knew that Nicholas Sparks would have me in tears again & he did!    

Another wonderful book by Nicholas Sparks.  If you are looking for a book that keeps you reading page after page, then this is the book!  Pick it up today!  

Keep on reading.  
Melissa  

P.S.  Some quotes from The Lucky Ones' Facebook page

"He didn't wander into town by chance."

"Everyone has a destiny. You were mine."

"Most love stories begin with a kiss. Ours began before we even met." - Logan (Zac Efron) in The Lucky One 

Reading Challenge: All He Ever Needed

For this Reading Challenge, I chose All He Ever Needed by Shannon Stacey.  This is book #4 of the Kowalski series.  I loved this series.  I am not sure when I read the first book, Exclusively Yours.  This was a library e-book.

I wish I read the earlier 3 books so I could get them refresh in my head, but that did not stop me from reading it.  There was a few details I could not remember, but at a later date I will read them all.  I love the Kowalski family.  The mom of the Kowalski's kids is Sarah & you need to read the book to find out about Sarah, which I do not remember in the earlier books.  This is the reason I need to re-read them again.  I love Rose Davis.  She is so sweet, caring, & would do anything for her Kowalski kids.  Rosie wants the best for them.  She wants grandkids!  Josh stayed to run Norther Star Lodge.  Liz, Ryan, & Mitch all left.  Sean joined the Army.  Mitch has his own company called Northern Star Demolition.    Ryan makes custom homes.  Liz is married to someone that everyone does not like.  Sean is married to Emma.  Katie is Rosie's daughter & she stayed. 

So, back to All He Ever Needed.  It is center around Mitch Kowalski.  The oldest of the Kowalski clan.  Mitch went to the Lodge that the 6 kids own & ran by Josh.  He needed help.  He fell & hurt his leg.  Mitch was going up there to help & get the place in better shape.  Their great grandfather had built the lodge as a family getaway.  The Kowalski's Kids' Grandfather "reinvented the vacation home as an exclusive gentleman's hunting club, and the Northern Star Lodge was born." (Kindle Page 23).

What is it with men when they are told "Every single men in Whitford's taken a shot with her and, I'm telling you, she ain't interested.  She's lived here like two years and hasn't gone on a single date that anybody knows about.  And in this town, somebody would know." (Josh says to Mitch when he is interested in Paige Kindle Page 27).  Of course Mitch is thinking "they could have a little fun while he got the Northern Star in order and then he'd kiss her goodbye and go on to the next job with no regrets and no hard feelings." (Kindle Page 27). 

I really like Paige.  She was driving through Whitford & her car broke down.  She stayed & brought the diner.  She isn't close to her mom.  I have learned in the last 4 years that family is important.  You need to put all the bad things that family has done or you have done behind you & move on.  They will always be your family & that is important.  If you have not spoken to them in awhile, you can always pick up the phone or email them.  A few years ago I did stop talking to someone in my family.  I think it was the best thing for me because now we are all closer than ever.  I do not know what others say.  I live my life for me & my family only.

My favorite quote of this book is this one:
(Paige) She deperately wished she did."What is it you want?"
(Mitch) "You. I want you and I don't you want to be a luxury.  I want you to need me.  I want you to not be able to concentrate because you're thinking about me.  I want you to reach your phone because you thought have to share with me.  I want you to not even be able to breathe at the thought of never seeing me again, because that's how I feel about, Paige. I want to be a necessity." (Kindle Page 334).

I really enjoyed this book, but I love this series by Shannon Stacey.  If you are looking for a good book or series, then this is a good book/series.  I think Mitch grew up in this book.  He realize what he wanted.  Maybe Mitch did not find the right woman until he met Paige or maybe one that did not turn his head enough!

Happy Reading!!
Melissa

P.S.
Some questions for you:

What was it about Paige that has Mitch so interested in her?  What would you do if you were Drew or if you were Mal? 

Reading Challenge: Capital Wives

Once again I got an e-book from one of my libraries, this time I chose Capital Wives by Rochelle Alers.  This was the first book I read by Rochelle Alers.  It was a really good book.  I did notice a spelling error on the Title Page of the e-book version, which left off the A in Capital & it did it again on the following page.  Other than that, no other spelling errors. 

I love the quote on the one page that Rochelle Alers has:

A worthy wife is the crown of her husband, but a disgraceful one is like not in his bones. - Proverbs 12:4

This book is about 3 woman.  I love how Rochelle breaks down the book.  We learn about Bethany Paxton, Deanna Tyson, & Marisol Rivera-McDonald.

Bethany is a stay at home mom, but she has a live-in housekeeper, who get the kids to school more than she does & her husband, Damon.  Bethany is Damon's first wife.  His first wife cheated on him.  Damon had hidden cameras put into the house & took the videos to his attorney.  Then they divorced & he married Bethany.  Damon has a child with his first wife, who lives with them, & Paige does not like Bethany at all so she gives her a lot of trouble.  How would you handle a stepdaughter? 

Deanna Tyson is D.C. Event Planner & her husband, Spencer, is an attorney.  They decided to wait to have a family until after their 10th anniversary.  Again I am not sure what I would do if I found out about my husband like Deanna did.  This is the ending where I love their ending, but you need to read the book!!  How would you handle what Spencer did?

Marisol Rivera-McDonald is a interior designer for Washington's elite.  Her husband, Bryce McDonald, is a political-consultant.  Again I am not sure what I would do if I found out about my husband like Marisol did.  You need to read the book to find out. Marisol is my favorite character of all 3.  I am not going to say why.  I love her ending!!  How would you handle what Bryce did? 

Bethany met Deanna & Marisol at an event.  Bethany invited Marisol to lunch to thank her for helping her at the event in the restroom.   Marisol invites both Deanna & Bethany to lunch, which bring the 3 together as friends in time. 

I love this book!  I was glued to the pages.  I did not want to stop reading.  Love the ending for each character especially Marisol!  I highly recommend this book to anyone!

Keep on Reading!!
Melissa

Reading Challenge: Safe Haven 2013

I am a bit behind in my reviews. For this Reading Challenge, I chose Safe Haven by Nicholas Sparks.  I really can not wait to see this movie.  I always wonder if the movie will be like the book.  Then, I am disappointed it was or maybe this time I won't be.  I loved the movie from his book, The Last Song, & I loved the book, too! 

For this Reading Challenge, I am doing it a little different.  I found Discussion Questions off of Nicholas Sparks' website so I thought I would answer them. 

1. When Alex first meets Katie, he senses that she is in trouble. How does he figure out what has happened to her?  I think it was from all the training Alex had in the military.  He sensed something was not right.  She was single, alone, living in the middle of no where, did not drive, did not own much, & did not act like most young people her age do.
2. What is the nature of Jo and Katie’s relationship? How does Jo help Katie adjust to her life in Southport? Jo & Katie are friends & neighbors.  Jo helps Katie see things that are there that Katie does not see.  I do not want to say anything more that would give away one of the best parts of the book, which I knew.  I loved how Nicholas Sparks put this into the book.  
3. Katie and Alex fall in love very quickly. What draws them together? Have you ever fallen in love so quickly? If not, do you think it’s possible?  I think Katie & Alex had some help.  I think Kristen helped bring them together by asking Katie along with Alex, Josh, & Kristin.  I think Jo helped Katie see what a good man Alex is.  I met my husband, Shawn, through a blind date, & I was engaged within 6 months.  Yes, I believe you can fall in love quickly.  
4. On their first date, Alex says to Katie: “Everyone has a past, but that’s just it – it’s in the past. You can learn from it, but you can’t change it.” Do you agree with him? Is it possible to truly put the past behind you?  I do agree with Alex.  It is possible to truly put your past behind you if you truly want to.  Leave all the hurt, anger, and move on.  Leave all that negative energy behind & start a new life with a positive attitude.  
5. Alex is a widower who has had to raise two children on his own. How has he dealt with his grief in the years since his wife passed away? Have you experienced grief of this magnitude in your own life? How did you handle it? I have handled a different kind of grief.  Grief of losing that perfect child.  You see my daughter was born with a neurological disease.  Someone told me to grief for the loss of that perfect child I always dreamed of having.  I handled it by crying, mourning the loss of not knowing what life would be like, but I am okay now.  I feel very blessed.
6. When Katie tells Alex about Kevin she says: “I hate him, but I hate myself, too.” Why does she feel this way? How does Katie change as she spends more and more time in Southport? How is she different by the end of the book? Katie feels like she should had known better.   Katie changed as she spends more & more time in Southport by opening up & becoming more herself.  
7. Despite his violent behavior and his incessant drinking, Kevin quotes the Bible constantly and takes the Ten Commandments seriously. How do you understand his behavior?
8. Katie’s past puts Alex and his family in potential danger. Do you think it was irresponsible of Alex to involve himself with a woman he knew could endanger him and his children? I do not think it was irresponsible of Alex to involve himself with a woman he knew that could endanger him & his children.  First, Alex & Katie does not know if her husband would find her or even come to get her.  You can not live your live in fear.  Alex can not teach his children to live your life to live in fear.
9. Why do you think the author chose to write a portion of the book from Kevin’s perspective. Do you have any sympathy for Kevin? Why or why not? I think Nicholas Sparks wrote a portion of the book from Kevin's perspective to let us know how he was feeling, how it was in his shoes.  I did not have any sympathy for Kevin.  He was the one who hit his wife, who made his bed, & has to live with the consequences.   
10. Did reading this book give you a new or better understanding of domestic abuse? Reading this book gave me a better understanding of domestic abuse.
11. At the end of the novel, Alex tells Katie he is sorry for her loss. What does he mean by this? How does Katie react? Alex meant that Katie lost her husband.  She has a right to mourn his death like everyone else who has lost someone.  Katie reacted by .....
12. What do you make of Katie’s discovery at the end of the novel? Do you find the book’s ending believable? I love what Katie discovered.  I do find the book ending believeable.
13. This novel is in large part about safety and trust and how we often take these two things for granted. Did this book make you think differently about your own life and the things you value? We take safety seriously here in our home for 2 reasons: 1.  Ashleigh is disabled & so am I.  We have to have the hallways & rooms clear.  We work on this daily.  Ashleigh works very hard to keep her room clean.  Some days it takes her longer than others.  2. My husband, Shawn, is a volunteer Fireman/EMT.  We are working on decluttering to decrease a fire hazard.  Also, I think safety when you are out of your home shopping, etc, is important.  To know who, what is around you is very important.  I do that very time I am out.  My family values each other.  Family & friends are very important to us.  

I hope you enjoyed my review. Let me know if you are planning to see the movie.  I hope I can go see it.  It comes out February 14, 2013.

Melissa

Reading Challenges- Almost Summer

For this review, I chose "Almost Summer" by Susan Mallery.  This is #6.2 in the Fool's Gold Series.  My full reviews are on Goodreads (my screen name is cx3ane).  On Goodreads, I am in a Challenge to see how many Susan Mallery books I can read for the year.  Read about it here.   

"When it's Alstair's time to leave, will his brief visit turn into a lifetime stay?"  Right after the cover (I read the Kindle version), there are 3 paragraphs.  In the third paragraph, you will see the above question.  What do you think?  Do you think Alistair will stay?  Before you started reading, what are your thoughts?  After you finished the book, now what are your thoughts?  

Spoiler Warning: If you have not read this book, stop!  Read the book before reading the rest of my review!!

The first time that Paige McLean met Alistair was at Simon & Montana's house.  Paige volunteers Alistair can stay with her (I am not going to tell you the reason- Read the book!).   I think the reason Paige did this had a lot to do with her Great Aunt Sophia.  Her aunt passed away 6 months earlier.  

I love the chit chat that Alistar & Paige have when she is trying to get him into her home.  He is about to pass out.  She is trying to get him to talk about whatever she can.  She learns somethings about him like he has met Prince Harry, he doesn't play polo well, his father knows the Royal Family, his father is an Earl, Alistair is a Viscount. Alistair says to Paige "My Lord is traditional, but unnecessary."

I love how Chapter One ends- "And to think she'd assumed that today was going to be a very ordinary day."  I think one should never assume anything.  Maybe I watch too many episodes of NCIS & I get this from Special Agent Gibbs!  I have learned not to plan my days too much because something normally happens than I am upset that I could not do A instead of B.  Another part I love is how Alistair said to Paige "You're the angel."  It was due to the fevers he had with the illness (read to find out!).  

"Well, it's the kind of place that welcomes everyone.  We take care of our own.  Word got out that you were here and sick and the town responded." - I love this.  I want to live in Fool's Gold.  Oh, Susan, sign my family up.  We can be packed in no time!!  I do not know my new neighbors.  I have met 2-the one across the street & the one behind us.  I already knew the couple on the corner because I went to school with their daughter.  The others I am clueless about.  The one on the one side to us I am not sure about.  He almost took my door off on my van.  He was speeding to get into his driveway, which is not even a driveway.  He parks along the side of the road in his driveway, but on the road.  Understand?  He has a garage, but does not park in it.  So, I have not met him, or the other one across the street, or the one on the other side to us.  I want people like in Fool's Gold where they care, where they help you.  

I am kind of like Paige.  Paige has never been anywhere.  I have traveled, but I have not lived anywhere except for the County I was born in.  I have been here my entire life.  I was born in the same town I am living in now.  As a child, we moved 3 times (not far from one another either).  As an adult, I think I moved 7 or 8 times, but never too far from the last time.  We just moved at the end of December after being where we were for 12 years.  The longest I lived anywhere in my Adult life.  I love how Paige gets so excited about her traveling one day like when she was talking to Alistair & she said "Knowing in my head that everyone has a different life experience is one thing, but actually getting to talk to people, to see life through their eyes, so to speak, fascinates me."  This is how I feel about my children.  Seeing it through their eyes is the best thing.  Especially if it is the first time they see something.

When Simon talked to Alistair, he "had made the town sound like a paradise.  A close-knit community where neighbors took care of each other."  Alistair did not completely believe Simon, but now after seeing the refrigerator full, he does.  This is where we learn more about Alistair.  He lost his child- his baby girl.  Alistair has been punishing himself.

Paige learns of a Sara from Alistair talking in his sleep.  Sara was his wife, who died in a car accident along with his baby girl.  They were having lunch in the yard.  Alistair was not in the same country when they died.  He has been beating himself up.  Pages later we read these words "Was it never to give his heart again? To never risk the pain? Or had he decided instead to make sure the next time he was there, with his family? or rather that they were with him?"  I wander what Alistair will do the next time!

We meet the librarian, Annabelle Weiss, when she dropped off some books for Alistair to read since he was getting well, but getting bored.  One of the books was on the Máa-Zib tribe, the first women who settled in Fool's Gold. 

Paige tells Alistair that the Spring Festival is tomorrow.  With the 2012 Fool's Gold Country Cowboy Calendar, we would know that the Spring Festival is May 12.  You can get the 2012 Fool's Gold Country Cowboy Calendar either as a Wallpaper or as a Windows Gadget, which both of these will tell you items like this!!  Go get it!  About the Spring Festival, there was a lot of things to see like booths selling jewelry, all kinds of food!!  A parade!  Alistair did learn that the soap he has been using at Paige's is Goat soap & it is very mild plus useful for several skin conditions.  

Alistair realized that "Paige had offered him more than a bed for his body-she'd given him a refuge for his soul.  Her gentle kindness had made him realize it was time to look forward.  While he would never forget those he'd lost, he was finally ready to start living again."  Alistair had been working so much since he lost his wife & child that he was not able to face everything until then- at the Spring Festival with Paige's help.  "He realized that he hadn't been just been fighting the measles and exhaustion.  His illness had gone much deeper- down to his heart."

I love how Alistair was helping Paige see her dream- traveling, but she was afraid to leave because of losing her Aunt so soon.  He told her that she will get there, but in her time.  Sparks flies between these 2!!  You could tell the entire book!  The way they teased each other.  After Alistair move into Simon & Montana's home, they both missed each other.    Alistair told her that "I know what I'm talking about.  I've spent the last few years beating myself up for being gone when I lost my family.  I've been unable to release the past and move on.  You've helped me get unstuck.  I want to return the favor."  Alistair wanted to do something for Paige in return for her helping him get well so he helped her plan her trip.  

When Alistair saw Simon, Alistair asked him questions about if he missed the travel.  Simon asks Alistair to be his another pair of hands, but he said "I'm not ready."  Simon told him that he is blaming himself for not being there.  Simon believes that even if Alistair was there that he "couldn't stopped her from crossing that street."  What is it that they say?  Sometimes fate is going to happen.  No matter what.  No, not fate, but it was her time to leave this earth.  Simon says to him "I believe things happen for a reason.  Had I not been injured, I would never have studied medicine, never become a surgeon.  I wouldn't found my destiny."  Simon wouldn't also be married to Montana & having a baby with her.  Think about it?  If Simon was not a surgeon, then he would never of came to Fool's Gold for those bad patients.  Therefore, never meeting Montana.  I fully believe this, too.  If I was not injured, I would not have had Ethan.  I would not been on leave from my job.  I would had been working 50+ hours & not had the time or energy to do anything.  Is there something in your life like this, too?

Alistair asked Simon "How did you know about Montana?"  I love this question.  Simon answers him "She allowed me to fell again.  She gave herself so fully, I couldn't resist responding in kind.  I wanted her from the second I saw her, but what I didn't realize was that I also loved her from that first moment.  It took me a while to figure it all out.  I nearly left her.  What a mistake that would have been.  Without her, there is nothing."  I love that Susan is going back to "Only Yours."  It helps us remember the previous books. Something we might of forgotten! 

Alistair thought the following- "What would it be like to have someone like that? A woman he loved so much he couldn't leave her?  But what about what she deserved?  Could he forgive himself enough to give her all she needed?  Or was the kindest act to simply walk away? I knew when I read these lines that Alistair was thinking of being with Paige.  I was thinking he would take her with him.  Being that she wanted to travel & his job was all about traveling, they would be perfect together.  They can go home to Fool's Gold for breaks.

My favorite part of "Almost Summer" is at the end of the book.  Alistair tells Paige "I'm telling you that I love you and I'm doing a very good job of it."  "I love you, Paige.  You have shown me what was missing in my life.  What I tried my best to avoid.  I couldn't understand how Simon could give up his work for a woman, but now I see what he was trying to tell me.  That loving Montana make him better at what he does."   Alistair wants her to travel the world with him.  Then, they will come home to Fool's Gold.

I hope you enjoyed my review of "Almost Summer."  This is a great book & an awesome series!
Keep Reading!!
Melissa


P.S. Something for you: 
1. Do you think Alistair will stay?
2. What does Alistair have?  What illness? 
3. Why can't Alistair stay with Simon & Montana?
4.  What was Paige's Great Aunt was before she was Paige's Guardian?
5. What was Paige calling Alistair as a nickname?
6. What was the Festival that Paige told Alistair he would want to see?
7.  What do you think Paige's Aunt would feel about her taking Alistair in?
8. How did Paige's Aunt die?
9.  What did Alistair ask Paige?
10. Do you think Alistair leave Paige behind if she would be pregnant or if they had a child?  Or would he take her/them with him?

Reading Challenge: Adopt-a-Dad

Another library e-book!!  This time I chose Adopt-a-Dad by Bonnie K Winn.  This was the first book I read by Bonnie K Winn & I looked on Amazon for more books by her.  I saw a few that I want to read.  OK, there was more than a few.  

What would you do if you went to the store & had your grocery cart stolen by 3 kids?  Luke followed the kids & his grocery cart.  He found 3 orphaned kids that are very hungry.  The kids' mother died, the kids (Brad, Hannah, & Troy) were going into foster care so they ran away.  Luke took the kids home with him & fed them.  He called his sister, Rachel, who is a social worker.  His sister & other siblings brought the kids clothes & beds along with toys.  Another social worker, Kealey, showed up.  Luke was not happy about her being the social worker that he will be assigned.  He decided that the kids have been through enough & to keep them with him until the kids could have foster homes or a permanent home all together.

Jane, Luke's mother, said "Kealey, being a mother isn't a definition from Webster's.  It's about bringing out the best in kids, encouraging them in a way that teaches. Like today, I'm not saying they growing to be veterinarians or philanthropists.  But just maybe, they'll grow into adults who care about others, especially those who can't help themselves." (Kindle page 150)
I really love this quote.  I really pray our children grow up to be adults that help others.  Like yesterday, we could have stayed home watching tv or playing, but instead we decided to help a friend, who was working a double & is diabetic.  He did not know he would be working that much & did not have enough food to make it through his shifts.  We did not want him to skip a meal & have his insulin level get messed up.  I showed my children that helping others matter.

Another quote I love that Jane said is "but life has a way of grabbing you and making you adjust to change whether you want it or not." (Kindle page 152)
This is so true.  We have had so many changes in our life.  I know we will have more changes, too.  That is what life is all about. 

I really enjoyed this book.  I learned about Luke's childhood vs Kealey's childhood.  Very different.  Learned about Luke's big family & how they welcomed everyone!! I forgot to mention that Luke is a vet.  We learned a lot of about the 3 kids, where they ended up living, & a lot more, but as always, you have to read the book to find out.  I highly recommend this book. 

Keep on Reading!
Melissa

Reading Challenge- Summer Nights

For this review, I chose Summer Nights by Susan Mallery.  I loved this book.  It is my favorite in the entire Fool's Gold Series!!  Summer Nights is a great summer read.  Annabelle is a caring, sweet friend & granddaughter.  I love that Annabelle wants to learn how to ride a horse for her fundraiser.  Shane is a cowboy!!  So many woman would love to be with him!!  Shane wants Annabelle & Annabelle wants him!! Summer Nights touched my heart a lot.

I love how Susan Mallery has dedicated Summer Nights to librarians.  The librarians in my area are so wonderful.  I am in the middle of planning a fundraiser that I can not wait to do.  It is at the library that my family lived near for 12 years.  We got to know the Children's librarian over the years.  When you go to the library, you ask the librarian what book is good.  I know we have done that plenty of times for me & the kids.  They have been wonderful in talking about what books are very good to read.  If you are a librarian & has not read Summer Nights, then please do so.  It is a great book!  You will not be disappointed!!

                                                               Source: allaboutfoolsgold.blogspot.com via Melissa on Pinterest

Spoiler Warning: If you have not read this book, stop!  Read the book before reading the rest of my review!!

Summer Nights touched my heart a lot.  I love how Shane got rope into more than he wanted to.  His ideas was great to have the kids come to his ranch for horseback riding lessons.  I loved when Charlie brought him a little girl from the burn unit to ride one of the horses.  This made me cry.  As a mom of a child like my daughter, horseback riding is very good for her & it helps build up those stomach muscles.  When Ashleigh first learned to ride a horse, it was at a Ranch being offered by a couple for free for kids with disabilities just like Shane in Summer Nights.  Yes, this book touches my heart in more ways than any books has ever done.  I posted a photo of my daughter on a horse from last summer during her Camp to let Susan Mallery know that Summer Nights touched my heart this much.  

Annabelle is very passionate about her bookmobile.  She cares about the people that can not get to the library.  If she could get her bookmobile, more books, computers, & WiFi, then she would be able to do so much more.  But, she has to fund raise a lot of money.  In order to do that, she has to learn to ride a horse & dance on one at the Festival!!  I loved that a little boy ran up to Annabelle with a small jar & said to her "We found 'em and saved 'em. Because you bring us books." (page 31 Kindle) It is so sweet that a young boy is trying to help Annabelle with her bookmobile.  Reading is so important to children.  My children & I do reading nights, but since my migraines gotten worse, we have not had a reading night. We need to start them again.  Ashleigh & I are doing the Summer Reading program at our library.  In Summer Nights, it talks about Summer Reading programs.  I love that.  At the kids old school, they had a summer reading program.  I love that program.  

I love how Shane asks his mom if he knows of any nice girls.  Who does May say?  Annabelle, the one dancing on the bar, but he does not know that.  She is the librarian of Fool's Gold.  Heidi asks Shane if he would teach Annabelle to ride a horse for the festival & he said yes.  May is something with her animals.  So far, the list of animals are: Llamas, sheep, a donkey, & an elephant.  I am not going to say what else is going to join this list!  ;) 

Shane thinks Khatar is a "difficult horse. Or has a reputation of being difficult" (page 44 Kindle), but Annabelle thinks he is a sweet horse.  When Annabelle is at Castle Ranch, Khatar gets out to see her.  

Annabelle was giving herself advice about Shane.  "She had to learn to be herself.  Could she do that?  Could she let Shane see who she was and take things from there?" (page 52 Kindle).  I think that is a great piece of advice of learns to be herself.  You can be be someone else.  

 I love series.  I know this is a stand alone book, but we do see characters from the other books.  We meet Montana again.  She is very pregnant & married to Simon Bradley.  When will she have the baby?  Simon is driving Montana crazy.  If you remember from the book, Only Yours, when we first met Simon & Montana, Simon lost his wife & unborn baby.  He is worried this will happen again.  We also learned about Dakota's 2 children (read the book to find out!!).  We do learn what Montana is having (read the book).

I love friendship between Charlie, Annabelle, & Heidi. They are always there for each other.  Whenever there is a break up with one of them, they are there for them.  Whether it is for Weddings or any of the good times in their lives, they share it with each other.  

When I re-read pages 351-60, I love this part of the book beside the part where Shane start horseback riding lessons.  My most favorite part of the book is at the end of the book.  Shane arranged for the girls to ride their horses in the parade!  What a great way to show off what they learn.  

My favorite Shane quote is:

"I know you're nothing like my ex-wife.  I know you're good and kind and caring and loyal.  I like everything about you, Annabelle Weiss.  More than that, I love you.  I'm sorry it took me so long to figure that out, but I did and I'm standing here to say I love you.  I want to spend the rest of my life with you and our baby."

I skipped a lot of the book on purpose!  Read the book to find out!  You knew I was going to say that right!
Melissa

P.S. Something for you:

1. Who did Susan Mallery dedicated Summer Nights to?
2. Who did Shane see dancing on the Bar?
3.  Boy or Girl for Simon & Montana?  Name?
4. What happened to Charlie?
5. What did Charlie's mother to her/police? 
6. What was the surprise that was waiting at Castle Ranch for Annabelle?
7.  Did Shane like this surprise (#6)?