The Art of Garden Photography by Ian Adams

Link to purchase from Timber Press
This book is a little older published in 2005, but is still very current. After conducting a series of garden photography workshops, Ian Adams realized that a book specific to garden photography that included digital camera information was needed.  There is information about both film and digital equipment along with the author’s personal experience of his transition from film to digital.  The photographs in the book are beautiful and printed on glossy paper, but most were taken with film and not digital.  I would have liked a more balanced variety.

I enjoy seeing “experiments” that the photographer/author provided when he tried different exposures or filters for interesting outcomes.  There are detailed sections on composure, how to choose a viewpoint, and the common mistakes made by inexperience photographers with close-ups. I think the most valuable information for me was how and what to include in my pictures that was illustrated in his photographs.

I have always wanted to capture some of the beauty in my own garden and this is just what I need to get started.   Not just for the summer bounty, all four seasons are covered with beautiful photos of each. The Art of Garden Photography has earned a space on my permanent bookshelf.

Thank you to Timber Press for the review copy of this book.  I receive no compensation for the book's purchase from my link. 

Redemption Day by Steve O'Brien

Home-grown terrorists are a real and constant threat in the United States. Redemption Day by Steve O’Brien brings to life the story of the kidnapping of a Supreme Court justice.  Nick James is a Federal terrorism analyst who finds himself out of work and being drawn into the crime - possibly drawn in too far.  Nick has to solve the kidnapping while at the same time he is being framed for murder.  Top on his list of suspects is the Posse Comitatus, a militia-style organization who believe that the government has gone too far.

After the initial tense kidnapping scene, the story hits the skids while the author has to backtrack with information on all of the characters involved.  Possibly there was too much information, and the story becomes rather choppy. However, as the story picks up again so does the suspense.  There is a good balance between dialog and narration, and the characters were OK, but I didn’t feel any real connection to them. I also didn’t find the story believable, but sometimes you just have to get lost in the story and not worry about whether it is logical or not. There is plenty of action, adventure, torture scenes, and surprises that kept me guessing.   Link to purchase Redemption Day 

I received a copy of Redemption Day only with the understanding that I would give my honest opinion. I receive no compensation if the book is purchased through my link.

Macro Photography for Gardeners and Nature Lovers by Alan L. Detrick

Link to purchase Macro Photography from Timber Press

With one of the longest titles I have reviewed, I have a copy of Alan L. Detrick’s Macro Photography for Gardeners and Nature Lovers, The Essential Guide to Digital Techniques. The book is as beautiful as it is informative.  Macro Photography is printed on glossy paper and filled with striking pictures of flora and fauna. 

Mr. Detrick clarifies the difference between close-up photos and macro photography, and his instructions cover many different aspects of creating that perfect shot.   Photography is not an inexpensive hobby.  The vast selection of lenses and equipment is staggering.  To do macro photography properly you need quite a bit of equipment and he gives a brief description of each. He also discusses how to travel with your gear. 

While this may be overwhelming for the casual photographer, for a dedicated hobbyist the information is essential.  Even if you don’t have all the equipment there is much to learn from this book.  The photographs in the book are both beautiful and interesting.  I especially appreciated that each description contains the type of camera used, lens and exposure information and many contain an explanation of why he shot it as he did.  He shows the way he experimented with changing light in some of the shots. He also writes about possible problems with a photograph and how he adjusts to compensate.

There is a good amount of information on proper exposure, depth of field, using the histogram, bracketing, focus, composition, background and movement.  At the back of the book there is additional information on recommended reading, associations, workshops, websites and a glossary that I found especially useful.  Macro Photography is a beautiful display book, but also so much more.

I received a review copy of Macro Photography free of charge in return for an honest review.  I receive no compensation for books purchased through this site. 

Not This Time by Vicki Hinze

I have mixed feelings on Vicki Hinze's new book, Not This Time.  Vicki is a very good writer of Christian fiction, but I think this one has a problem with too much background information at the beginning.  The first few chapters were nearly impossible to follow even though I had read one of the previous books in this series. I wish I had read the second before this one.  Multiple new people were introduced on every page, and although the author tried very hard to explain each character, I was totally lost.  I actually stopped and started the book over.  It didn't help because I was still lost and rather frustrated by it.  I decided to just forget the first part and just plow through, and it turned out to be a good story.

Not This Time is a more of a thriller rather than a mystery with characters that are government agents chasing an international criminal ring.  The characters were varied and interesting.  The topics of faith, hope, and forgiveness were evident throughout the book.  One character struggles with her criminal behavior and seeks forgiveness.  This was a wonderful addition to this book to show God’s love and forgiveness for the worst of the worst. 

I don’t normally read romantic novels, but I have to say that I enjoyed the romance that developed between Beth and Joe.  Beth was hurt and humiliated by a previous love and trusting “ladies man” Joe was difficult.  Their relationship had to progress slowly.  Joe, too, had past issues, and he gradually opened up about his Cajun upbringing.

I enjoyed the book, but I would recommend reading the first two in the Crossroads Crisis Center series before this one or be prepared to make a flow-chart to keep track of characters!

I was provided a review copy of Not This Time by Vicki Hinze in return for an honest review.  

Amazon.com link to purchase Not This Time (I receive no compensation if the book is purchased through this link.)

Downfall by Terri Blackstock

Emily is a former drug user who caused much trouble and danger for her family.  She is now clean and sober and attending college when trouble seems to find her again. Just when things seem to be going well, her life starts spiraling out of control. 

This is a good mystery with twists that kept me guessing until the end.  The theme of trust runs throughout this book as evidence shows up that makes Emily look bad.  Her family loves her, but can’t help but wonder if she has slipped back into addiction.

The family dynamics were outstanding as we see a family in recovery.  Her brother and mother also suffered from Emily’s past, but they try to put it all behind them and trust her again.

The characters are realistic, not perfect people, but individuals trying to do the right thing.  At first I was a little put-off by Emily’s impulsiveness and the way she jumped into some situations without thinking, but I realized how realistic that behavior is with an addictive personality.  It was that impulsiveness that continued to cause problems for her. 

While I haven’t read all of Terri Blackstock’s books, I have read quite a few and have never been disappointed. I definitely recommend Downfall for those who love a good, fast-paced, mystery.

Amazon.com link to purchase Downfall (I receive no compensation for purchase).

The Coming Revolution by Dr. Richard G. Lee

 Many call the United States a Christian nation, while others argue against this premise.  Dr. Lee brings the history of the founding of the United States to light as he explains just what roll Christians had in the settlement of our country.   We have watched our country slip further and further into debt, immorality has become the norm, and the loss of individual liberty grows daily.  Average citizens are now rising up and taking action.   Not a revolution of guns and war, but with responsible political action. 

The Coming Revolution is more than just a history lesson.  It is a call to action with specific positive approaches we can take to put our country back on the right path.  The author doesn’t believe that it is too late to stop the downslide of America.  History is not my usual genre, but the author explained just enough to hold my interest and explain his points.  I liked that he talks about specific steps we can take to make a difference in a positive way and without violence. Even if we can’t do everything he lists, there are some things that we can all do.

Dr. Lee is a pastor and Christian speaker.  His book represents the Christian perspective of how much it should mean to us to be an American and to possess not just the American spirit, but a personal spirit of independence.  His outlook is one of optimism and not doom and gloom. The book contains pages of footnotes and is indexed for quick reference. 

Note:  I received an advanced reader copy of The Coming Revolution by Dr. Richard G. Lee in exchange for an honest review.

Amazon.com link  to purchase (I receive no compensation if you purchase through this link.)

The Goose that Laid the Golden Egg by Doug Bremner

Amazon link to purchase The Goose that Laid the Golden Egg

Accutane was a drug that was prescribed for the treatment of severe acne.  There were, however, a significant number of teens that committed suicide while on the drug, including the son of Senator Bart Stupak.  The Goose that Laid the Golden Egg looks at the attitude of drug company, Hoffman-La Roche, and their cover-up of the side effects of Accutane.  The author, Doug Bremner, was asked to research the possible link between Accutane and suicides and was also involved in presenting his findings to the courts.  This was an interesting and frightening look at the length that drug companies will go to prevent the loss of dollars in spite of the loss of lives.

The book also looks at the author’s family history and genealogy.  As a genealogist, I found it interesting to read about his search for family members, but I had trouble keeping his extended family straight.  I have trouble keeping my own in order, so trying to remember who is who for another family was impossible. Still, it had good tips and links for others researching their family members.  The author also included information about his personal family tragedies and emotional issues.   

It was difficult at times to take seriously a book about the science of drugs and the tragedy of teen suicide when the author is also talking about “Indigo children” and other new-age non-scientific subjects. 

I think that the book traveled too much from its original purpose. It had an important message about the drug companies, but that aspect of the story did not give me a satisfying resolution.  I wanted to know more about the drug, its continued availability, and the legal ramifications surrounding Hoffman-La Roche. That said, I did find the book interesting, and I think it has an important warning we should all heed when we take what we assume is a safe prescribed drug.

Medical Error by Richard L. Mabry, M.D.

I grabbed this e-book when it was free on BarnesandNoble.com.  I didn’t read it right away, but when I finally had time I really enjoyed this inspirational medical based story.  There were a few problems with word spacing and dropped letters, but I don’t know if it was book editing or e-book formatting problems.  It didn’t bother me, but I know some find it annoying.

The story is about a female doctor whose life is spiraling out of control when her identity is stolen.   She is a woman of faith and therefore her decisions and daily life reflect that faith.  In fact, at one point I was disappointed in a decision she made only to realize that her decision was the morally correct one. What was I thinking!  The story is not “preachy”, but just part of her life. 

I thought it was a good story and will definitely read more by this author.

Oath of Office by Michael Palmer & Giveaway

Amazon.com link to pre-order Oath of Office Pre-order NYT best-selling Michael Palmer’s 17^th medical/ political thriller OATH OF OFFICE and support The Food Project, a great organization in Eastern Massachusetts supporting youth through sustainable agriculture. Learn more about the initiative and how to get involved:  http://on.fb.me/zya842

Michael Palmer is the author of sixteen medical mystery/suspense novels.  It is no secret that he has been one of my favorite authors for years, and Oath of Office is another outstanding book by this author. 

The character of Dr. Lou Welcome brings us an area of medicine that patients do not like to think about.  He is a medical doctor that has fought his way back from addiction and is now helping other troubled doctors.  Unexpectedly, one of his doctors suddenly goes on a shooting spree. He kills patients, another doctor, and his staff before killing himself.  Lou was overseeing this doctor’s progress and is held responsible for the carnage.  But things are strange all over the small town of Kings Ridge, and Lou finds several cases of individuals behaving out of character.  He must solve the mystery to keep his position as counselor to his troubled colleagues. There is a political connection (non-partisan) in the story that leads all the way to the First Lady and President. 

I always enjoy the medical foundation to the story, and with the suspense and great writing, this book was a pleasure to read. Each of the main characters of the book is unique. Lou Welcome was likeable, and I enjoyed the relationship he had with his father, daughter and even his ex-wife Renee.  He and Renee still had a respect and fondness for each other.  Of course, there is action and adventure when Dr. Welcome finds criminal activity going on where you least expect it. There is a perfect balance of dialog and narration, and I highly recommend Oath of Office.

Congratulations!  The winner of Oath of Office has been chosen by Randomizer.org and has been notified.  The winner has 48 hours to send her mailing address, or another winner will be chosen.

Giveaway

Michael Palmer has offered a reader copy of Oath of Office for one reader of Bookvisions.  

1. US Only and no P.O. Boxes

2. Contest will end February 10, 2012 at Midnight Central time.

3. One winner will be chosen and will have 48 hours to send me your mailing address. 

4.  Leave a message with your email address and let me know of any other Michael Palmer books you have read.

Shear Murder by Nancy J. Cohen

Barnes and Noble link to pre-order Shear Murder

Shear Murder is a fun mystery/romance. There is quite a bit of detailed wedding information because the character, Marla, is not only a bridesmaid in a wedding, but also planning her own wedding.

Imagine finding a dead body under the wedding cake table! Suspects abound in this story, and Marla is well know by local police as someone who likes to get involved.  I think that there was maybe a little too much information gained by eavesdropping, but Marla is eager to solve the crime.

I was a little worried when I saw that the book contained just over two pages of a Cast of Characters with the names and brief bio of everyone in the book (including pets!), but keeping track of everyone was not a problem even without the list.

This is the tenth in the “Bad Hair Day” mystery series, but it is very much a stand alone. This was the first in the series that I read and I never felt like I didn’t know something that had happened in the past. I am not sure if this is the last in the series, but if it is, fans will be pleased by the ending in this book.

Gone to Ground by Brandilyn Collins

Link to preorder Gone to Ground

Gone to Ground is a serial killer murder mystery told from the perspective of three women.  Each of these women believes they know who committed the murders, and all have something to lose by coming forward.  Amaryllis, Mississippi is not the type of town where murders happen, but now a serial killer has the whole town on edge.  Brandilyn Collins takes us into the lives of these three women as they try to do the right thing.

You are first introduced to Cherrie Mae, the senior of the three ladies possessing the grace and wisdom of a mature Christian. She cleans houses and finds information that leads her to think that one of her employers is the killer.  There is a dialect used for her narration, but it is not overdone and doesn’t interfere with the flow of the story. Tully, a young pregnant woman, believes that her abusive husband may be the murderer. Deena, a beauty shop owner, is afraid her special needs brother may be involved. Woven through the book is the story being retold as a newspaper article by Trent, a reporter.  All of the characters are likeable and realistic.

Although the chapters change the point of view, you will never be lost in this chilling tale of murder.  I appreciated the Brandilyn Collins’ careful development of each character and clear “voice” for each. Of course, it also helps that the chapters are labeled with the name of the viewpoint!  The story brings the three women together so that their lives intertwine. Once again Brandilyn Collins brings suspense, mystery, and faith to her characters in a special way.  Of her books I have read, I think this is the best so far.  

Gone to Ground by Brandilyn Collins

I have a great new book, and I will be posting my review this week.  For now, I just want to give you a little information about the book and how Brandilyn Collins researched it.  I enjoyed Gone to Ground very much.  Scroll down for the book trailer.


About Brandilyn Collins -Author of Gone to Ground
Brandilyn Collins is a best-selling novelist known for her trademark

Seatbelt Suspense®. These harrowing crime thrillers have earned her the tagline, Don't forget to breathe . . .®, and have made her one of the most well-known figures in the mystery/suspense literary genre.

Following the steps of a mysterious serial killer, Brandilyn's latest novel, Gone to Ground (March 2012, B&H Fiction, $14.99, Trade Paper), takes readers to the fictional Southern town of Amaryllis, Mississippi. To research this book—her first set in the South—Brandilyn ventured to Jasper County, Mississippi. One of her biggest challenges lay in learning the accent well enough to recreate it in dialect, especially for the black character.

“I need to speak with an African American woman who’s at least sixty,” Brandilyn told the clerk. She was introduced to Cherrie Mae Gammage, whose first and middle names were so perfect for the character, Brandilyn asked for permission to use them. Cherrie Mae agreed, and later lent her musical Southern accent to the book trailer for Gone to Ground. Auditions for the other two characters’ voices were eventually held in Bay Springs, and the city clerk who introduced Brandilyn to Cherrie Mae became the voice for thirty-five-year-old Deena.

Brandilyn's first book, A Question of Innocence, was a true crime published by Avon in 1995. Its promotion landed her on numerous local and national TV/radio spots, including daytime talk shows. A speaker on the writing craft, Brandilyn is also known for her distinctive book on fiction-writing techniques, Getting Into character: Seven Secrets a Novelist Can Learn From Actors (John Wiley & Sons). The Writer magazine named Getting into Character one of the best books on writing published in 2002.

BRANDILYN COLLINS is the bestselling author of 23 novels. Awards for her work include the Carol Award (three times), Inspirational Readers' Choice, and Romantic Times Reviewers' Choice. When she's not writing, Brandilyn can be found teaching creative fiction at writers' conferences. She and her family divide their time between homes in the California Bay Area and northern Idaho. For more information, please visit
BrandilynCollins.com.

Nearing Home by Billy Graham

Amazon Link to purchase: Nearing Home:  Life, Faith and Living Well

Rev Billy Graham is one of the most well known and respected Christian pastors.  I am so happy that he chose to write this book about how to live an honorable and useful life as we grow older.  There is much useful information for those of any age, but especially those who are starting to feel the restrictions of age.  Rev. Graham shows how God used men and women from the Bible when they were in their later years of life, and, of course, how He can still use us today. 

Although he writes about failing strength, health issues, retirement, loss, and family decisions, this is never a depressing book.  He also writes about the “Foundation that Lasts”, influencing those around us by our attitude and behavior, and our home in heaven, and I felt only his upbeat optimism for his heavenly future.

This is a wonderful book not only for seniors, but for every age.  As a matter of fact, young adults will benefit from this book because Rev. Graham gives great insight into the need for preparing for the future.  This is an easy book to read and I appreciated his message.  Growing older is not easy and can easily be depressing if we focus on what we can’t do instead of what we can. Rev. Graham has accomplished so much for the cause of Christ, but he is always humble in his demeanor and writing.

I received this book for review from the Thomas Nelson Booksneeze program.

Concrete Garden Projects by Malin Nilsson and Camilla Arvidsson

I was the fortunate contest winner of this book, a gift certificate to Home Depot, and foam molds to create concrete address numbers.  The project for the house numbers was a video garden project presented on the Timber Press website.  http://www.timberpress.com/

A couple of years ago I made some stepping stones with concrete with found “treasures” around the house, but when I saw Concrete Garden Projects, I realized there were many other things I could make with a little concrete.  I love projects that repurpose and use found items.

This book has inspiration as well as specific instructions for creating useful concrete objects for the yard.  There are a variety of pots using either homemade molds or other containers you have around the house.  There are also mini-ponds, birdbaths, tea lights, and other decorative items.  The last section of the book is the Project Handbook with step-by-step instructions and photographs for working with concrete and molds. There are instructions also for adding decorative touches to your concrete project.

The photographs are nicely done and most are full-page.  Most of the projects are easy and can be made with things you have around the home or inexpensive kitchen or candle molds. This is a great book for those who love their patio spaces!

Pinterests

I am frequently asked to post links to articles written by others, and I usually don't because they are clearly are done to promote their websites.  I did find this one interesting though, and thought I would go ahead and post the link with the understanding that I am not promoting their website, only the article.

Perhaps I am falling behind in the tech/web world (no, I don't have a "smart" phone), but I had never heard of Pinterest before.  http://www.onlinecolleges.net/2011/12/14/25-beautiful-pinterest-pins-bookworms/