In My Shop

I haven't been that active with my shop lately, but here's hoping that will change in the next few months. Here are some recently made items!

Unicorn Necklace

Mermaid Necklace

Black Necklace

Romance Review: If I Should Ever Love You

* First in a new series * 

Leonie isn't interested in marriage - not since the night she eloped and her almost husband raped her. She killed him in self defense, but the damage was done. Luckily another suitor saved her. What she didn't know was that it cost him - dearly. Now he's the Earl of Rochdale in need of a wealthy wife. Her father just agreed to her marriage. In order to make it through the ceremony, Leonie has a nip (or more) of brandy. The Earl is furious - he doesn't want a wife who can't control herself around alcohol. Leonie isn't sure what to expect from the marriage, but there are times when the Earl is sweet and tender and times when he's furious. Do they have a shot at a happier marriage than her parents?

My Thoughts: I really enjoyed this novel - minus the two rape plot points (one before the book opens and one during the book). I'm just not interested in reading about rape (obviously I know it happens). But what I did really enjoy about this book was the heroine's dependence on alcohol. I haven't seen it in many books. I liked how they worked on the house together and how Leonie grew to imagine it's potential. 

Cover Thoughts: Charming
Source: ARC sent for review

Middle Grade Review: The Vanderbeekers of 141st Street

The Vanderbeekers have the worst Christmas ahead of them; their lease hasn't been renewed. They have to move out of their apartment before the end of the year. The five siblings (Jessie and Isa - the twins, Oliver, Hyacinth, and Laney) are devastated. They Love their home and can't imagine living anywhere else. But they have a plan to save their home - lots of plans actually. Can they convince cranky old Mr. Beiderman to change his mind?

My Thoughts: I LOVED this book. The siblings are adorable and unique. I enjoyed the twins' story and how they're growing up and a little bit apart but still together. I loved Laney and her affectionate heart, her bunny, and her enthusiasm. I loved bookish Oliver who loves basketball. I loved crafty Hyacinth. I loved their thoughtful creative ways to make Mr. Beiderman change his mind - even if they didn't always go as planned. Most of all, I loved the sense of community within the book. It would be amazing to live in a place like that. I oved reading about the cookies - they made my mouth water. I can't wait for the next book!

Cover Thoughts: Adorable
Source: My Library
Sequel: Coming out September 25th
Library Recommendation: A must have for public and school libraries.

Picture Book Review: Glitter

Not everyone loves Glitter as much as Gloria - especially cleaning up glitter. But she's determined to show everyone how happy it can make them.

A cute picture book with fun glitter sprinkled throughout the pages. It also showcases a great message of knowing what you love and not letting people talk you out of it. Gloria's determination is admirable as is her desire to share her happiness. 

Top Ten Tuesday: Middle Grade Reads

This week's topic is a freebie. I've been reading some great middle grade reads, so I thought I'd highlight them. Enjoy!

- meme from That Artsy Reader Girl

Middle Grade Monday: The Stone Girl's Story

Mayka and her family have been carved out of stone. Their marks tell their stories and make it possible for them to experience life. But their marks are fading and in Turtle's case, so faded that he's gone to sleep. Mayka won't allow that to happen to anyone else her family. She's determined to go down the mountain and into the city to find a stonemason to help them. But what she finds is more than she bargains for.

My Thoughts: I really enjoyed this story. I loved the descriptive writing. I loved the message of the book: everyone writes their own story. I loved how the family would tell stories all night while looking up at the stars. I loved the power of stories. I enjoyed how Mayka, Jacklo, and Risa left the mountain to find help. Mayka was determined and brave. I loved how they met new people (not always nice people) and how they interacted with all of them. I loved the moments in the city - where everything was both full of wonder and simultaneously overwhelming. I love how Mayka helped everyone and I especially loved the ending! 

Cover Thoughts: Love it
Source: ARC sent for review
Library Recommendation: Grab this one for your school and public libraries!

Poem for National Library Week

Poetry and libraries collide!

Here's a poem I wrote last year:

Not a day goes by
when I don't read.
Reading is the air
I breathe.
Words transport me to other worlds.
Words wrap themselves around me
in a warm hug.
Words make me feel
like I'm never alone.