Monday, April 24, 2017

A Bicycle Built For Two Billion by Jamie Bianchini



Synopsis

Jamie Bianchini needed a lift. A big one. After a series of spectacular business flops drove him into bankruptcy and the love of his life kissed him goodbye, Jamie knew he needed a world of help. But instead of seeking assistance from a counselor or support group, Jamie sought comfort where he’d always found it…on his bicycle.

As his world hit rock bottom, Jamie hatched a crazy plan that just might make everything right. His life lacked purpose, passion, and connection with his fellow man. So Jamie decided to go for a bicycle ride…around the world…on a tandem…solo…inviting everyone he met to join him for a spin.

A Bicycle Built for Two Billion is the moving story of an audacious optimist who tried to change the world – while hoping the world would change him – one rider at a time. A heartfelt, hilarious, adrenaline-fueled journey through 81 countries, A Bicycle Built for Two Billion will allow you to see the planet in a way never experienced before.

Come join Jamie and his unforgettable cast of co-pedalers – from inspiring villagers to conniving thieves, romantic paramours to unlikely gurus, excited school kids to seniors who have never set foot on a pedal. Come join them all for the ride of your life.

Includes nearly 200 spectacular photos and videos captured around the world, bringing this rich story to life.


My Thoughts

This book made me want to jump on a bicycle and take off on a little trip of my own!  However, I am definitely not in shape to do so!  I don't think I would make it a mile down the road!

I enjoyed this book immensely.  I especially enjoyed the honesty and vulnerability of the author.  Many people may find things about Jamie to be fairly unlikeable at times but, like I said, his honesty and openness draws you in.

His story was so much more than I ever expected.  I was intrigued from the beginning and it held my attention to the very end.  I could close my eyes and picture every location, every adventure, every individual.  Such great storytelling that at times you forget that it's about his real life.  Pick it up!  You won't be disappointed.

*Note: I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.

Sock Fancy - An Awesome Sock Subscription Company!




First, let me say that this is not a book review.  However, this is really cool!

I received an email a few weeks ago from a company called Sock Fancy.  They asked if I would like for them to send a sample and, if I liked what I received, if I would be willing to tell my readers about their company.  I agreed and just about a week later a box was in my mailbox!

Sock Fancy is a sock subscription company.  Basically, choose to give the socks as a gift or subscribe for yourself, pick your sock size, choose your subscription length, and then checkout!  Awesome, random socks will be sent to you every month according to what subscription package you chose.

When I received the sample I was very pleasantly surprised!  I was expecting one, maybe two, pairs of socks.  They sent a box of six!  And they are such great quality!

I definitely recommend Sock Fancy!  What a great idea!  Check out their website and see for yourself!




Saturday, April 1, 2017

The Girl Who Could Read Hearts by Sherry Maysonave




Goodreads Summary

Intuitive as a child, Sherry Maysonave has had mystical experiences throughout her life. At the mere age of five, she had a direct experience of her soul existing separately from her physical body, which forever changed her perception of God, life on earth, and life in heaven.

Inspired by a vivid dream with Sherry’s deceased sister shouting from a mountaintop, this story—The Girl Who Could Read Hearts—was born. 

An inspirational novel, this moving story teems with intrigue while exploring the mysteries of intuition, angels, death, the afterlife, prejudice, and miracles. 

Born gifted with a rare seventh sense—the ability to read human hearts coupled with keen intuition—Kate Kindrick struggles to understand her capabilities. She is often bewildered by her unique perceptions, combined with seeing symbols and colors in people’s hearts. 

Kate’s parents fear that their young daughter suffers from delusional psychosis. Their concerns are intensified by her claims that she has conversations with an angel. Only her grandmother, who is gravely ill, and her uncle, a famous writer, encourage Kate to develop her gifts. 

Yet it’s her naiveté of the intuitive signs that augur trouble. When she doesn’t heed an inner warning, her world spins into a dangerous spiral that spells hazard for her and those she loves. Her antics land her cherished uncle in the hospital. His life hangs in the balance.

Just when she believes things couldn’t get worse, her life cascades down a doubly treacherous path. She is forced to spend extended time with her teenage cousin, Marilla Marzy, and the girl’s sinister father—Vaynem Moxsin. Tormented by both of them, she prays for rescue. Shocking events transpire.

This captivating novel explores issues relevant to many of today’s societal woes: prejudice, abuse, eating disorders, and limiting belief systems. It delves into the mysteries of death and of angels, plus intuition, finding God in all, and true love. 
Full of spirit, this poignant story brims with inspiration, daring, and hope.



My Thoughts

Although this book may have started out a bit slow for me, I almost put it down a few times, when it did pick up it basically flew!  The Girl Who Could Read Hearts gave me so many emotions throughout the story, a literal emotional journey.  Trust me, get past the first few chapters and you will be glad you stuck with it.

Kate was such a sweet character and you just want to wrap her up and protect her.  She was by far the best in the book.  There were definite "good guys" and "bad guys" portrayed in this book and they were made very clear.  No confusion or gray areas about who they were or what their motives were.

The Girl Who Could Read Hearts is well written and the concept of 'reading hearts' is creative and extremely interesting.  I'm so pleased to have been given the opportunity to read and review this book.

*Note: I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review.