Fat Dogs and Welsh Estates

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From Amazon:

Imagine a land protected by craggy mountains, lapped by whispering seas, and guarded by mighty fortresses with bloody histories. This is North Wales, home to the legendary red dragon, and Beth Haslam’s beloved birthplace. Petulant ponies, neurotic sheepdogs and rabbits with razor-sharp teeth shape Beth’s life as she grows up on a farm estate. She’ll tell you tales of sailing the treacherous Menai Strait Swellies, site of many a dark happening. You’ll learn about the stunning region whose slate once roofed the world, and the ghost-filled castle she called home. This is no ordinary upbringing. Croeso i Gymru!

My Review:

This memoir of growing up Welsh is full of adventures, Welsh cuisine, Welsh words, you name it. Indoor and outdoor critters and playing hide and seek in such a large home was rather funny. The Welsh history alone is notable. This is one of those books you get sucked into with total immersion. You won’t want to leave.

This entry was posted on December 28, 2023. 3 Comments

With Love, The Universe

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From Amazon:

A book of affirmations from the Universe for everyone who has ever felt alone, sad, needing encouragement, or needing reminded of how very special they are…

Based on a tradition that began with Morrnah Simeona’s reinterpretation of an ancient Hawaiian problem-solving technique to restore harmony known as Ho’oponopono, and revitalized and shared with the world by the late Dr. Hew Len. Each page offers Ho’oponopono inspired words and photographs by the award-winning authors Derek R. King of handpicked heart-shaped rocks arranged and place by award-winning author Julie L. Kusma, or, as Julie states, the Universe herself.

A treasure to read over and over until authenticity recalled, and beyond, to stay beautifully centered in oneself, the Light, and the Universe.

My Review:

I love this book. Each piece of prose is uplifting and positive. One may have days when they feel down or upset, yet knowing that we are where we are supposed to be is comforting to the soul. Be you. Love yourself. Shine your light upon others. Remain open to the little things in life. They are blessings. YOU are a blessing. YOU matter. Love YOU. Prose to focus on and believe.

(K)no(w)where: Manifestation Made Easy 

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From Amazon:

Unlock ancient wisdom and see how manifestation is made easy as you learn to create the life you desire by discovering the secrets never told to you. KNOW WHERE you’re going so you don’t go NO WHERE!

My Review:

This was an interesting read. Our own realities can be changed by ourselves for a more positive life. Take where you are or what you want to achieve. Look down deep into your soul and brain. Concentrate. Look at your values and norms. What do you want to change? The key to that change lies within. Changes you morals and prior life situations into the belief you can change or obtain. Never stop your belief. Before you know it, little changes happen, you see them, and thus, you are manifesting your life anew.

Split Decision

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From Amazon:

Jefferson Ball, the mightiest female dog in a universe full of them.

Jody Ryder, the mightiest female robot dog in said universe.

When they clash, everyone will hear it….

My Review:

This book is chock full of robotic, two-legged, sporting, and talking dogs as well as a mix of alien creatures, some bad ones, and life, of sorts carries on. The two characters at the beginning are highly competitive, and they are actually in high school. The fantasy takes you up and down. Language can be coarse. It’s probably best for Readers 16 and up. The ending was a surprise.

Tranquil Seas: Still Yourself and Be

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From Amazon:

The seaside has an undeniable power to bring peace and joy to the soul. Its treasures of shells, rocks, sea life, water, and sand captivate us with their beauty and remind us of the wonders of nature. The photographs of Derek R. King and the affirming words of his and Julie L. Kusma perfectly capture the essence of this magical place. Let the seaside inspire you and fill your heart with tranquility and happiness.

My Review:

The words contained within were soothing to my soul. I live in a landlocked state in the USA. The words within are mainly about the seaside, but I found them soothing and beneficial to my soul. Why, you might ask? I’ll tell you. The soft waves gently lapping, the beautiful shells and sea life, the throes of a tide, a setting sun, and more mixed with soothing verbiage does heal and soothe the soul. The combination of heartfelt words and soothing sound and scenes written within are just that. Soothing. No matter where you live, you will experience the fullness of the seaside.

If I Were Invisible

From Amazon:

Think of all the things we could get away with if nobody could see us! But how long would the fun last, if we had to do it all alone?

My Review:

This is a very cute story for children. It rhymes and has a great theme for kids to explore. If I was invisible, what could I do? Kids would have a ton of ideas. Dreaming about what a kid could do is endless. But then, the kicker comes in to play. What fun would it be if a child no longer can see or play with family or friends? Food for thought for children.

Restoring Christmas Magic: Love for the Holidays

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From Amazon:

In no mood for holiday cheer, songwriter Dalia Hayes is about to turn off the news when she sees Oliver, the man who recently deserted her, receive a Grammy nomination for a Christmas song Dalia had composed, and that he’s pirated.

Now she’s furious, in the depths of heartache, and is forced to play Nancy Drew to figure out how he pulled it off.

When she finds him, how is she supposed to prove it?

My Review:

This short story was a fun holiday read. If ever two people were meant to be together, Dalia and Ollie fit that to a T. Going from A to B is the fun part of the story that you must read for yourself.

A Grosvenor Square Christmas

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From Amazon:

Four breathtakingly romantic tales of a Regency Christmas from four bestselling romance authors.

Down through the years, enchantment touches a tall gray house in Grosvenor Square. The legend of Lady Winterson’s Christmas ball promises true love and happiness to one lucky couple. Who will feel the magic this winter?

1803 – The Seduction of a Duchess by Shana Galen

Rowena Harcourt, the Duchess of Valère, never forgot the handsome footman who helped her escape the French Revolution. For fourteen years, Gabriel Lamarque has loved Rowena—now at Lady Winterson’s Christmas ball, has fate finally delivered a chance to win her hand?

1818 – One Kiss for Christmas by Vanessa Kelly

Nigel Dash is London’s most reliable gentleman, a reputation he never minded until he fell in love with beautiful Amelia Easton. Unfortunately, Amelia sees Nigel as a dependable friend, not a dashing suitor. At Lady Winterson’s famous Christmas ball, Nigel vows to change Amelia’s mind—by sweeping her off her feet.

1825 – His Christmas Cinderella by Anna Campbell

At the season’s most glittering ball, a girl who has never dared to dream of forever after discovers a Christmas miracle.

1830 – The Last First Kiss by Kate Noble

Susannah Westforth has always loved Sebastian Beckett – but he’s only ever seen her as a friend. When Sebastian takes his Grand Tour, Susannah transforms herself into a woman he’ll notice. Now Sebastian is back, just in time for Lady Winterson’s Christmas ball – but the last thing he expects to see is his little Susie, all grown up…

You’re invited to join the whirling dance at Lady Winterson’s sparkling Christmas ball, where miracles happen and true love shines forever. How can you resist?

My Review:

Wow. Talk about an awesome way to find love matches at 3 Grosvenor. Christmas time is special, and more so if one has a highly covered invite to the Christmas ball and Lady Winterson’s ball is always a real crush. The different stories in this book involve Winterson’s Christmas ball, but each differ in presentation. Five stars!