Christmas at See Lizzie Read!!

Hello Bookworms!!,
          I apologize that I have been away for SO LOOOONG!!! But I promise that I have not forgotten about you! I have new reviews, author interviews, and more planned for See Lizzie Read!
          One fun thing that I have planned is #BookishGifts! I am posting fun, funky, and cool Christmas gift ideas for the book lover on your Christmas list (or maybe to help build your own Christmas list! ;) ). Go over to See Lizzie Read's Facebook page, "like" it, and keep an eye out for the hashtag "#BookishGifts"!! Let me know what you think or make suggestions of your own!


To access the Facebook page, Click Here! :D


I'll type again soon!,
              Lizzie <3

Rebel Fire by Andrew Lane

Hello Bookworms,

            A few weeks ago I posted a review of how much I loved Death Cloud (Young Sherlock Holmes #1) by Andrew Lane. It was the first book in a series that I’ve come to greatly enjoy! I have currently read 5 out of the 8 novels and one short story that Andrew Lane has published in the series and I’m still loving it! Today, I’m backing up a few books to bring you a review of the second book in the series: REBEL FIRE! Watch out for *SPOILERS!!!!* if you haven’t read the first book DEATH CLOUD! There won’t be many and certainly not about major details, but if you’re like me and you hate ANY spoilers great or small, you may want to wait until you read Death Cloud to read this review. Here we go!

Summary

            It hasn’t been long since Sherlock faced Baron Maupertuis in France. It seemed like a once in a lifetime adventure. But Sherlock isn’t about to go back to his hum drum life at Uncle Sherrinford and Aunt Anna’s for very long. When Matty is kidnapped, Sherlock, his mentor Amyus, and Amyus’s daughter Virginia will have to track him all the way to America!

This adventure will test Sherlock’s mind, morals, and his strength! When the hunt suddenly separates Sherlock and Virginia from Amyus, can the pair retrieve Matty and get back to New York safely? And what does all of this have to do with a rare collection of animals and John Wilkes Booth?

Review

            Oh my goodness readers! This is another whirlwind adventure and I loved it! I was a bit leery when I read that John Wilkes Booth could be a character in this because I don’t usually like when authors use a real life person or real life events and smash them with fiction. I also wasn’t thrilled that this was going to take place in America (it’s part of what I love about Sherlock Holmes’s world is that he lives in England!). After having read the whole book, don’t fear, the setting and the real vs fictional characters do not take away from how great the story is AT ALL! It’s a true testament to Andrew Lane’s ability to write! (if you are worried about confusing history with fiction, I strongly recommend that you read the author’s notes at the end. It’s usually about three pages and he does a great job of explaining what things were real and what things were not).

            I continue to love all of the characters, everyone has their own personality and they all have something to contribute to the story! I, of course, continue to love the relationship between Mycroft and Sherlock as well (Get some tissues all you criers! I got choked up!)! There’s a new character introduced in this book and he will have a major impact on the person Sherlock is as an adult, see if you can figure out who it is!

I highly recommend that you read Rebel Fire by Andrew Lane!! You’re probably going to love it as much if not more than Death Cloud! If you are looking for this book in your local bookshop or online, if you see the title REBEL FIRE or RED LEECH, it is the SAME BOOK! I used the title Rebel Fire for this review because the copy of the book I own has the Rebel Fire cover and title. Whichever of the two you buy, it is the same story.

Buy Rebel Fire

Until Next Time,

            Lizzie <3

Why Your Daughter's Crush on Mr. Darcy May Actually be a Good Thing

Hello Bookworms,

            It is widely known that one of the greatest love stories in literary history is included in Jane Austen’s Pride and Prejudice. I’m talking about the love story between Mr. Darcy and Elizabeth Bennett. Generations of women have had crushes on Mr. Darcy since the book’s publication in 1813.

            Some people are concerned with their daughter’s crush on a fictional character. Especially since the story is set in 1797! But I’d like to highlight a few reasons why your daughter’s crush on Mr. Darcy can actually be a positive thing (Warning!! Loads of SPOILERS from this point on!!!).

            You see, Mr. Darcy, though he is fictional and is from a bygone era, possesses many qualities that you’d want your daughter to seek in a husband:

Mr. Darcy is willing to work on himself.

In the beginning of the story, Darcy is prideful, prejudiced, and somewhat arrogant. He is painfully shy and somewhat withdrawn. Yet, when Darcy sees the pain and chaos his attitude causes himself and those he loves, Darcy works hard to change. A man who can acknowledge his faults and work on them is definitely a good man.

Mr. Darcy is a gentleman.

Mr. Darcy is the kind of man that escorts you to your carriage, and helps you get in (like he did for Elizabeth after the ball at Netherfield). Darcy stands when a lady walks in. Now that last one isn’t required so much these days, but don’t you love when a man holds a door for you or escorts you safely to your vehicle when needed? Of course you do because Chivalry isn’t dead! When your daughter takes notice of Mr. Darcy, she’s reading about/watching a gentleman in action and getting the idea that a man who is a gentleman is a good thing.

Mr. Darcy is financially stable and smart.

Mr. Darcy has a large fortune and a large estate. While Darcy inherited both of these, it takes brains and hardwork to keep the money flowing and the estate afloat. Darcy is providing a good example of what a hardworking, stable man looks like.

Mr. Darcy is a family-minded man.

Mr. Darcy finished raising his little sister, Georgiana and is her guardian. Darcy dotes on Georgiana, providing for her needs and protecting her from evil influences (like Mr. Wickham) and he genuinely enjoys it! I’d say that’s a pretty good advertisement for his potential as a father. Your daughter has a crush on a hardworking man who takes care of his family.

Mr. Darcy isn’t afraid of showing affection.

Now this may be a bit harder to see, because showing affection was very different in the 1700’s and 1800’s than it is today. However, if you look for it, you’ll see it. Mr. Darcy is so proud of Elizabeth that he’s just dying to show her off to his family (that’s a pretty big step) and, most famously, in the final scene, Mr. Darcy professes his love for Elizabeth is the most beautiful speech. A man that’s so proud of you that he wants to show you off and he tells you how much he loves you is something I think we all want and it’s good to encourage that for your daughter.

Mr. Darcy is generous and kind, even with his in-laws.

Mr. Darcy fixed the scandal Elizabeth’s sister Kitty caused (even though it cost him dearly). Mr. Darcy also made sure that Elizabeth’s sister Jane was proposed to by the man she loved more than anything. Also, he invites Elizabeth’s uncle to come fish on his estate. Darcy doesn’t think only of his own household and that’s it, he’s generous and willing to go the extra mile, even for his in-laws.

Mr. Darcy loves that Elizabeth is smart and self-sufficient.

One of my most favorite things about Mr. Darcy is that he recognizes that Elizabeth is smart, strong, and self-sufficient and he doesn’t want to change that. As a matter of fact, Mr. Darcy admires Elizabeth’s abilities. Elizabeth embodies some of the qualities Darcy wishes he had but for which he is too shy. Darcy wants to spend time with Elizabeth and see how she does it and learn how to do it himself. And He’s proud of her for being strong. You would want your daughter to be with someone who recognizes her strengths and encourages them in her, and Mr. Darcy is providing an example of what that looks like for your daughter.

So, when your daughter starts re-reading Pride and Prejudice, or wants to watch the movie again for the millionth time, go ahead and let her. Mr. Darcy is reinforcing what a good man looks like for your daughter. Much better than the love story between Edward and Bella from Twilight, a love story where the teenage girl is so dependent on the guy that she cannot function when he suddenly walks out on her. Elizabeth and Darcy embody a more healthy relationship and the more positive examples we can put in front of our girls, the better. So encourage your daughter’s crush on Mr. Darcy, and maybe buy her that “I <3 Mr. Darcy” tote for Christmas this year. ;)

 

Until next time,

                        Lizzie <3

5 Minute High Five 5 with author Gina J. Bentley

Hello Bookworms!!

          Today’s post is going to be lots of fun! It has been a while since I have had an author interview, but today I have one for you! A couple of weeks ago, I reviewed Flowers Darkly by author Gina J. Bentley. Today, Gina is going to give you some insight into her world and the world of  Flowers Darkly. Enjoy!

1. Let’s start with a fun question, how amazing does it feel to have released your first novel?

It feels wonderful! I began writing Flowers Darkly almost three years ago. At first, I didn't tell anyone I was writing a novel because I knew it'd be a long process. It ended up taking even longer than I'd anticipated. I eventually had to let go of a timeline, and be content with whenever I finished it. I wanted it done right! It's awesome now because readers tell me how characters, plot elements, or lines impacted them. I lived alone with these things for years, so to be able to finally share them in the book is truly an amazing privilege.

 

2. Where did you find the inspiration for Flowers Darkly?

 

I found inspiration for the novel in many places: British television, classic literature, dreams, music, and even sermons. Someone said "good artists borrow; great artists steal." I definitely stole some inspiration! As an example, I based aspects of Nicholas Graham on Robert Hardy's portrayal of Siegfried Farnon in the BBC series, All Creatures Great and Small. I studied Hardy's facial expressions as to get the subtleties right in my descriptions of Nicholas. Since the novel took three years to write, I had time to pool lots of ideas and incorporate them into the story.

 

3. Who was your favorite character to write?

 

My absolute favorite character to write was Nicholas Graham. He has a presence that transcends the page, causing me to think I may find him in line at the grocery store or sitting next to me on a flight. It's difficult for me to believe I created him: he always gently told me what he would say and do. Of all the characters, I've probably gotten the most feedback from readers on Nicholas. One reader described him as "perfect," and I couldn't agree more. I think as he impacts the characters in the story, he impacts us as well.

 

4. Given the opportunity, would you move to a new country like Miri? If so, where?

 

It's funny you should ask this question because I allowed Miri to experience my own dream of moving to England. I've been in love my entire adult life with England and British culture, primarily through its television and literature. Like Miri, I worked for a division of a British company, where I met Brits whose friendliness, character, and manner only increased my admiration for their culture. I got to travel with Miri to England in Flowers Darkly, and I hope my readers do as well.

 

5. Are there plans for more novels from Author Gina J. Bentley in the future?

Yes! Another novel is brewing in my heart and begging to be written. This one will likely stay state-side, but I expect it to have just as much romance, humor, and biblical truth as Flowers Darkly.

I would like to thank Gina J. Bentley for giving See Lizzie Read this interview!!

For more information about Gina J. Bentley’s works, both present and future, visit her website!

To purchase your copy of Flowers Darkly click here!!

Until next time,

          Lizzie <3

Death Cloud (Young Sherlock Holmes #1) - Andrew Lane

Hello Bookworms,

          I am EXTRA excited about today’s review!! I have found a new favorite series! The best one since The Harry Potter Series and once again it has come from the Young Adult genre! I am talking about the Young Sherlock Holmes Series by Andrew Lane! We’ll start at the beginning with Death Cloud!

Summary

          Sherlock Holmes is only 14 years old. After completing another frustrating semester at Deepdene School for Boys, Sherlock is looking forward to going home. What Sherlock doesn’t realize is that this break is going to be completely different from those to which he has become accustomed. Sherlock is about to investigate his first murder case.

          Matty, a young, homeless orphan is moving through the streets looking for food. When his search brings him to an alleyway, the boy hears horrific screaming. A dark cloud ascends from a window and the occupant of the apartment is found dead. What has this young man seen? How does one find the truth? It is only when Matty runs into a brilliant young man with a funny first name (What kind of a name is Sherlock anyway?) that things can begin to take shape.

Review

          Readers, I am mesmerized by Andrew Lane’s writing!!! Mr. Lane (who was a fan of Sherlock Holmes by his own admission) has taken Sir Arthur Conan Doyle’s classic character and the Victorian era and gives us the backstory of which we Holmesians have always dreamed!

          The relationship between Sherlock and his brother Mycroft is superb (very reminiscent of the relationship we saw played out by Jeremy Brett as Sherlock and Charles Gray as Mycroft, which was always my favorite version). And as the series goes on I continue to love it! But for now let’s concentrate of Death Cloud only.

          The case is VERY Holmesian. The impossible is explained by the incredible! And every second is action packed! I was on the edge of my seat!! As a matter of fact, I sat down with the book at about 7:30pm and around 1:30am I was done (I haven’t done that in ages!) and losing it over how amazing the book had been! Moms, this book would be amazing for your boys! There is action, fighting, suspense, and surprises! AND it will make them think!

          The characters are so colorful; everyone has their own distinctive personality. No character is useless (that’s something I love). You’re going to love some characters and other characters you are going to hate…for all the right reasons (but I won’t say any more about that to keep from ruining it for you ;) ).

          Needless to say, I HIGHLY recommend Death Cloud by Andrew Lane to all Holmesians, Action lovers, and Mystery lovers! You’re going to love Young Sherlock Holmes!!

Buy Death Cloud

Until next time,

                   Lizzie <3

Flowers Darkly by Gina J. Bentley

Hello Bookworms,

            Today, I will be bringing you a review of the debut novel Flowers Darkly by Gina J. Bentley! This novel was released June 5^th, 2015 and I think all you romantic globe trotters out there are going to want to take this book with you on your summer vacation! Here’s why…

Summary

            Miri Lewis has a husband, two young daughters, and a demanding career. She’s a good wife, a good mother, and good at her job. But sometimes, Miri isn’t sure if she keeps her priorities straight, especially when it comes to her handsome, British boss, Andrew Kent. When a death occurs in her immediately family on the heels of being offered the career and personal opportunity of a lifetime in Bristol, England, Miri’s world seems to come crashing in around her, What Miri is about to discover is that sometimes tragedy is the catalyst that can bring more than sorrow and that comfort can be found in the unlikeliest of places.

Review

            Flowers Darkly was an initially mysterious and ultimately heart-warming story. With Austenian and Dickensian influences, Mrs. Bentley weaves a tale of love, sorrow, discovery, and dreams. And for all you British obsessed bookworms out there, over half the story takes place in England!!! You’ll just die for the descriptions of the people, the buildings, the places, and the good old English weather!

            Nicholas and Simon were by far my most favorite characters in the book. Nicholas in every ounce the kind, loving English gentleman we’ve all dreamed about. You can practically hear the kindness in his voice and feel the warmth of his embrace as you read. A vicar, Simon reminds me very much of Sidney Chambers of James Runcie and PBS’s Grantchester mystery series. And since I like Sidney Chambers so much, I couldn’t help but love Simon as well. Simon provides smiles and laughter and heartwarming support that will leave you wishing you had a Simon in your life too.

            Flowers Darkly is the perfect story to read on vacation. It takes you around the world and shows you the best side of people while entertaining you all along the way. I highly recommend you read it!

Buy Flowers Darkly

Follow Gina J Bentley on Twitter at @ginajbentley!

Until next time,

        Lizzie <3

The Boy Who was Raised as a Dog - Dr. Bruce M. Perry & Maia Szalavitz

Hello Bookworms!!,
           I am back with a new review! Today's book came to me in an unusual way. Most people wouldn't find reading a book for a University class and enjoying it such a big surprise. It happens all the time. But to read a non-fiction book for a Social Work class and enjoy it enough to include it on your blog? Yea, you're going to want to read about this book!! So here we go!!


Summary
        Dr. Bruce Perry is a leader in the Psychiatric field. Practicing since the 1980's, Dr. Perry has seen some of the most dramatic changes to the fields of Psychiatry and Mental Health. In his book "The Boy Who Was Raised as a Dog" (co-authored by Maia Szalavitz), Dr. Perry shares some the cases that taught him the most about human needs, the mind, and treatment. And if you think its just another boring text book...its not.


Review
         Readers, I have to admit, when I first heard that on top of taking 4 classes during the summer semester, I had to read a full length novel, at first I wasn't enthusiastic (even as much as I like to read). But when I ordered the book and realized it had actually been written in novel form, I became a little more open to the idea since reading novels is kinda my thing ;) . Once I started reading, I realized that this was probably going to be one of the most interesting books I have ever read in my Academic career so far.
          Dr. Perry is funny, insightful, and even heart-warming. Dr. Perry gives examples of actual cases he worked, some of them small cases no one has ever heard of before, some of them were national news like the children of the Davidian Cult in Waco, Texas. In each one, Dr. Perry fearlessly admits when he was wrong, over-confident, & was about to learn a lesson. In each case, Dr. Perry brings out what each case taught him about psychiatry and the needs of human beings. The reader is slowly educated on points that one can only learn in the field.
          I found myself entertained while I was learning. I was also amazed at the shear brilliance of Dr. Perry. If there was ever a person called to do a job, Dr. Perry has been called to his. I don't want to give anything away, but in the cases of one teenage girl (nicknamed Blue Raven) and one 6 year old boy who appeared to have RAD, the way that Dr. Perry realizes what is really going on is almost like reading Sherlock Holmes solve a mystery. It really shows what caliber of professional that is Dr. Perry.
          I highly recommend this book to students of Psychology, Psychiatry, Social Work, Mental Health, and anyone already working in the fields. It will be an education for beginners as well as seasoned professionals. "The Boy Who Was Raised as a Dog" is an amazing book. A Triumph!


Buy The Boy Who Was Raised as a Dog


Until next time,
               Lizzie <3