PAIRED - Champagne & Sparkling Wines By Fran Flynn & David Stevens-Castro

  Blurb

• Writers Digest Book Awards - First Place - Reference Category

• Gourmand World Cook Book Awards - A 'Best in the World' award - Food & Wine Matching category

• Foreword Reviews - Finalist - Cookbook of the Year

• Australian Wine Communicator of the Year Awards - Finalist - Best Wine Book of the year These awards followed on from winning 'Best in Australia' in two categories of the Gourmand regional awards for 'Food & Wine Pairing' and 'French Wine' earlier in the year

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 

Food and wine pairing can be easy! All you need are taste buds and a sense of adventure. This beautifully presented, full colour recipe book will encourage and support you to experience the pleasure of food and wine pairing for yourself. The first volume showcases sparkling wines of all styles, and challenges usual perceptions by offering sparkling wines with tantalising home-cooked recipes for all courses of a meal, not just with finger food. The delicious recipes, presented by husband-and-wife team wine expert David Stevens-Castro and food photographer Fran Flynn create a foundation to apply your new pairing skills with confidence. Leave your comfort zone behind, try the unexpected, and bask in discoveries that your taste buds will be forever grateful for. Renowned award-winning wine expert Tyson Stezler contributes a foreword and discusses the current trends in champagne and sparkling wine consumption. Aimed at anyone with an interest in food and wine, this book uses a light-hearted and accessible style of language, plus full-colour illustrations to guide you on the right path to understanding food and wine pairings for yourself, with the added benefit of demystifying terminology and explaining wine labelling. Seven chapters each showcase a style of sparkling wine, present a visual synopsis of the country of origin, supply complimentary cheese ideas, and several recipes that will pair with the topical variety. Every recipe illustrated with full colour photographs is introduced by Fran, while David narrates some pairing suggestions. Common misconceptions about wine are dispelled, a broad range of dishes suitable for sharing and entertaining are presented, and suggestions on how you can introduce your friends to the wonderful world of food and wine are also provided. Note: All measurements appear in both imperial and metric format throughout the book.

PURCHASE

Amazon

Visit PAIRED MEDIA

Follow the entire PAIRED tour HERE

Brought to you by Worldwind VBT

Book Review: Pedro 'n’ Pip: A Rock 'n' Roll Odyssey for Eco-Kids by Taylor Barton

Pedro 'n’ Pip: A Rock 'n' Roll Odyssey for Eco-Kids is a unique children's book by Taylor Barton. Pedro ‘n’ Pip is a raucous, uplifting rock 'n' roll odyssey about a tenacious ten-year-old girl, named Pip, and a ‘rockoctopus’, Pedro, who she meets while scuba diving after an oil spill in the Gulf. Together, they forge a powerful friendship and unite sea creatures and landlubbers alike to help clean up our waters for the good of all. A blend of colorful illustrations, easy-to-understand messages and an embedded musical score of more than a dozen original songs performed by a cast of award-winning musicians, including the legendary GE Smith, Robbie Wyckoff, (voice on Phineas and Ferb) Ella Moffly, Christine Ohlman, The Persuasions, David Broza and Jillette Johnson.

Pedro 'n’ Pip: A Rock 'n' Roll Odyssey for Eco-Kids is an interesting story- one that music fans, ecologically concerned children, and amateur marine biologists will understand and appreciate the most. Pip is a young girl with a vivid imagination and love of nature. When her father's company is involved in an oil spill her mission to help clean up is born- which lead her to the singing octopus Pedro. Yes, the story is strange, very much so, I do not mind that, and in some cases really appreciated it. I feel the same way about the inclusion of song lyrics. Sometimes this works, but I felt like the combination of both in the same book made it a little too unfocused. I just could not get lost in the story. Every time I would start to get into the flow another crazy event of song would pop up and I would lose the flow of the story. The adult is the story seemed to be fairly realistic at times, but more often than not completely unlikable. Pip's father had me upset with him in the very beginning, and I never really got over that- even when he was doing better.

Book Review: Made for Sin by Stacia Kane

Made for Sin is the first book in a new series by Stacia Kane. A lot of bad hands get dealt in Vegas, but E. L. Speare may be holding one of the worst: He’s cursed with the need to commit sins, and if he misses his daily quota, there’s hell to pay, quite literally. Fortunately, his hometown affords him plenty of chances to behave badly. But Speare’s newest case really has him going out on a limb. The right-hand man of a notorious crime boss has been found dead in a Dumpster—minus his right hand, not to mention the rest of his arm. What catches Speare’s attention, however, is that the missing appendage was severed clean by a demon-sword, a frighteningly powerful tool of the underworld. Speare’s out of his element, so he turns to a specialist: Ardeth Coyle, master thief, dealer in occult artifacts, and bona fide temptress. Ardeth’s hotter than a Las Vegas sidewalk on the Fourth of July, but she’s one sin Speare has to resist. The dismembered corpses are piling up, unimaginable evil lurks in the shadows, and if this odd couple hopes to beat the odds, Speare needs to keep his hands off Ardeth, and his head in the game. 

Made for Sin is a solid start to an urban fantasy series. E.L. Spears is a man of two minds, the second is a demon that lives in his head and takes over his body if he does not feed him enough sin and anguish. He did not count on his best source of information top solve a gruesome murder being a woman that he would be so attracted to, and enjoy verbally sparring with. Ardith is a thief, and his best shot at finding answers. However, now they are both in danger and more murders are making this even more problematic- as is their attraction. I like how pragmatic both characters are, and how they seem to take everything in stride. I feel like Kane has laid some of the groundwork for this series in other books, but the world building is pretty good here. I think it started a little slowly for me as I tried to figure out all the connections and details, but by the end of the book I had  reasonable grasp of the larger world. I am interested to see what happens next, but because of the characters rather than that world building. 

Made for Sin is a fast paced book with a little bit of everything. I like that there is mystery, fantasy, suspense, and a dash of romance tossed in there. While the romance occasionally becomes the main part of the story, the paranormal and suspense factors quickly take back over. 

Book Review: Plants Can’t Sit Still by Rebecca E. Hirsch

Plants Can’t Sit Still is a children's non fiction picturebook written by Rebecca E. Hirsch and illustrated by Mia Posada. Have you ever seen a plant move on its own? Plants might not walk, but they definitely don't sit still! Discover the many ways plants (and their seeds) move in this fascinating picture book.

Plants Can’t Sit Still is a book that shows young readers that while plants might not be able to get up and walk, they are definitely not immobile. it is an easy read and will appeal to pre-school and kindergarten readers, and might be useful when talking about science, particularly what is alive. plants move quite a bit, as they grow and seek light for the most part, but in other ways as well. The bright illustrations and simple text do a nice job of explaining the way plants move and why, while leaving the readers to think about the plants in their own yard, on the paths they know, and how they might be moving or might have already moved to get where they are. A nice book to share and read, particularly if you want to instill a love and curiosity about nature. 

Book Review: The Heiress and the Hothead (Sinful Suitors) by Sabrina Jeffries

The Heiress and the Hothead by Sabrina Jeffries is a novella in the Sinful Suiters series.  I did the read the first book in the series, The Art of Sinning, which takes place right before this installment. However, it is not necessary to read the series in order. 

This story focuses on Amanda, who owns a cotton mill in America, and Stephen, who is working hard on factory reform. Stephen assumes that Amanda's factory has to similar to the ones he has witnessed. Amanda is a different kind of factory owner. She actually cares about her employees and works hard to ensure their safety. Amanda agrees to an interview with Stephen but only if he introduces her to some of his sources. 

The Heiress and the Hothead is a fast and fun read. I liked Amanda and Stephan, ands thought their characters were well written. They are not fear, boring characters and I found their interplay entertaining. Assumptions and conflict might start them off on the wrong foot- but they actually communicate with each other- although not always well. My biggest complaint was the sex scene. Sometimes they fit, and sometimes they do not. Here I think we could have skipped it. It struck me like the classic moment in paranormal or suspense romance when everything is going to hell and death is close and suddenly our characters decide it would be a good time to get busy. It just struck me as silly and a little unnecessary. 

Book Review: 10-Minute Recipes by Liana Werner-Gray

10-Minute Recipes by Liana Werner-Gray is a cookbook for those that want to eat healthier, but need recipes that are quick and easy- and go beyond salads and grilled chicken.  In 10-Minute Recipes, you will find more than 100 recipes to get more of the essential vitamins, minerals, and micronutrients your body needs—each of which can be prepared in 10 minutes or less. Whether you're a meat eater or a raw vegan, this inclusive book offers options for juices, smoothies, salads, entrees, desserts, and more that will delight any palate. There is also advice on proper nutrition; tips for shifting out of toxic habits; and guides for specific goals such as weight loss, reducing inflammation, and increasing energy.

10-Minute Recipes is a well organized and easily understood cookbook. I have to admit that it was not the recipes or text that caught my eye though. As soon as I started reading I notice the beautiful, full-color pictures. The images are very well done and spaced through the book perfectly to enhance the text and catch the eye. The book describes the “Earth Diet” and there is a lot of information about nutrition and changing eating habits, and what you might expect in your body and mindset when you make these changes. Honestly, I was looking for recipe ideas and inspiration rather than this- so I was a little annoyed at how much of this there was, but some readers might find interesting and useful. I did like that she included information on the tools and equipment that the recipes would require before hand and the most likely ingredients that you might not already have on hand.. Nothing worse than planning on a recipe, buying all the ingredients, only to discover you are missing something important when you reread the recipe prior to getting started. However, it was not until page 40 in the book, chapter 5, before even getting to the recipes and them the first 4 chapters are all juices, drinks, and smoothies. In chapter 10 we finally get to things that require teeth.He recipes were alright, and certainly healthy. However, not much I could really use. When I saw 10-Minute recipes as the title I was expecting more things that I could toss together after helping my kids with their homework, and that we all would enjoy eating. IO did get some ideas for my own mornings, but not much that my family would eat for other meals. 

10-Minute Recipes is a good resource to those trying o change their lifestyle and eating habits to go very green and healthy, particularly if they want the philosophy and coaching to go along with it. It is not meant for the casual reader looking for inspiration and ideas to sneak in a little something healthier into their families dinner- quick before they notice. So, it was not meant for me- however I think those looking for this kind of help information, and support will get a lot out for this book.

Book Review: Safe From Harm (Protect & Serve) by Kate SeRine

Safe From Harm is the second book in the Protect & Serve series by Kate SeRine. The first book in the series was Stop at Nothing, which I did not read. However, I caught up to the stories surrounding the families pretty quickly, and some of the characters felt familiar anyway- though I still have not figured out why yet.

Deputy Gabe Dawson has had his eye on prosecuting attorney Elle McCoy for years. But the smart, sassy redhead is immune to his legendary charm and good looks, until Gabe is shot on the courthouse steps protecting Elle from a vengeful domestic terrorist. Elle McCoy has been protecting her heart from the cocky playboy cop. But it’s hard not to notice a guy when he takes a bullet for you and seems determined to turn his life around. With the extremists still at large and Elle a target, Gabe and his law enforcement brothers kick into high gear to take down the threat. And as they work together, Elle realizes she’s losing her heart to a man who will risk it all to keep her safe from harm.

Safe From Harm is a good romantic suspense, with plenty of danger and mystery. Elle is a prosecuting attorney dealing with those guilty of terrible crimes, and with that comes the risk of violence. Gabe is a police deputy dealing with collecting evidence and the criminal element. They each have painful losses in their past, and deal with the unpleasantness elements of society. They also have long standing infatuations with each other, and neither knows the other really feels the same. I like that Elle is a strong and capable woman, willing to admit her faults to herself, but not always willing top admit them to others. Gabe seems like the womanizing golden boy, but he is a strong and thoughtful guy that has a strong inclination to protect those around him. I liked their banter, and eventually the way they opened up and really talked. I also liked the inclusion of the pair's extending family and that grief and PTSD was talked about in realistic ways, the adrenaline following danger and the struggle to come to terms with what can and cannot be done was a strong element of the story. What I did not like was the uncontrollable need to get naked as soon as they admitted their feelings for each other at every single opportunity. Sex happens, especially in romance novels, but I feel like more could have been done between the couple to solidify their relationship with emotion than with sex.

Safe From Harm is a good romantic suspense with complex characters and story line. I enjoyed the read, and think many others will as well. 

Book Review: Hidden Universe Travel Guide to the Complete Cosmos: With Notes by the Guardians of the Galaxy by Marc Sumerak

Hidden Universe Travel Guide to the Complete Cosmos: With Notes by the Guardians of the Galaxy by Marc Sumerak is the ultimate guidebook to Earth, the Nine Realms, and other dimensions from Marvel Comics, as told by Peter Quill, Rocket, Groot, and the rest of the Guardians of the Galaxy.

Ever since Super Heroes like Thor and the Guardians of the Galaxy started stomping around planet Earth, we’ve had to open our horizons a little and embrace the wider reaches of space. If you’re thinking of journeying to one of the many new realms for a little down time, then don’t leave home without Hidden Universe’s guide to the cosmos. Whether you’re looking to enjoy the divine splendor of Asgard or soak up the multicultural atmosphere of intergalactic waypoint Knowhere, this is the book for you. It even provides some tips on surviving excursions to Planet Moord and Chitauri Prime, if you like your vacations to be on the extreme side. 

Hidden Universe Travel Guide to the Complete Cosmos is a good place to start if you are know to the Marvel universe, or just want to fill in some knowledge gaps. It is not comprehensive- as there are just so many things to cover, but it an entertaining start because of the interjections of the Guardians. This book offers readers information on the hot spots, history, and culture of more than forty locations in the Marvel Universe, including Planet X, Halfworld, Weirdworld, and the Planet of the Symbiotes. There is also some discussion of some of the Earth's most exotic and mysterious locations, such as Wakanda, Latveria, the Savage Land, and New Attila. The humor and snark of the commentary really made the book a fun read, and I learned a few things.

Hidden Universe Travel Guide to the Complete Cosmos is a good guide to those who enjoy some of the graphic novels or movies that feature the Marvel world of superheroes and creatures. It helps fill in the blanks that you might not know if you have missed an important issue or movie- and want to fully understand the possible implications of wise cracks, drawn weapons, and diplomatic mistakes. 

Early Book Review: Breath of Fire (Kingmaker Chronicles) by Amanda Bouchet

Breath of Fire is the second book in the Kingmaker Chronicles by Amanda Bouchet. It is currently scheduled for release on January 3 2017. I highly recommend reading this series in order, because of the world and character development. The first book was Promise of Fire, which I loved.

"Cat" Catalia Fisa has been running from her destiny since she could crawl. But now, her newfound loved ones are caught between the shadow of Cat's tortured past and the threat of her world-shattering future. So what's a girl to do when she knows it's her fate to be the harbinger of doom? Everything in her power. Griffin knows Cat is destined to change the world-for the better. As the realms are descending into all-out war, Cat and Griffin must embrace their fate together. Gods willing, they will emerge side-by-side in the heart of their future kingdom, or not at all.

Breath of Fire is a grand adventure that continues to develop or characters, the world, and the political intrigue. Cat continues to grow as a person and Griffin grows as well as they find how they fit together in the bigger picture. More secrets are shared, danger faced, and crises faced. There are plenty of battles and strategies, as well as personal conflicts and magic. I think the only thing I did not like here was the ramping up of the description of the physical relationship between Cat and Griffin. I think it did overwhelm some of the other aspects of the book. It was dealt with better in the first book, and in this style of book I tend to be more interested in the emotions and adventures of they characters than a detailed description of their intimate moments. Since I read tons of romance this might seem odd, but t is what it is. That being said, I still love this series and cannot wait to get my greedy hands on the next book.

Breath of Fire is another great adventure. I still love the story and the characters,and look forward to the next book in the series, Heart of Fire, which is expected to be released in the Fall of 2017. 

Early Book Review: When We Were Alone by David Alexander Robertson, Julie Flett

When We Were Alone is a picturebook written by David Alexander Robertson and illustrated by Julie Flett. It is currently scheduled for release on December 31 2016. When a young girl helps tend to her grandmother’s garden, she begins to notice things about her grandmother that make her curious. Why does her grandmother have long braided hair and wear beautifully colored clothing? Why does she speak another language and spend so much time with her family? As she asks her grandmother about these things, she is told about life in a residential school a long time ago, where everything was taken away. 

When We Were Alone is a wonderful look at how much the younger generation can learn about their heritage and the lives of their family by asking questions. I think it is important for us all to understand what our elders and ancestors went through, and how other cultures have faced. this picturebook offers a little of each. Whether your family tree includes Cree (or any other Native American Heritage) or not, it is important to know what they faced, and how any group has been treated in the past or present. Not only does this book offer a lesson on heritage and history, it can also help with empathy and understanding. Perhaps a better understanding of our shared history can help us understand how others feel and prevent similar treatment of groups still or now considered 'other'. I would highly recommend adding this to any library collection. It can start many important conversations that are currently very relevant to the current state of the world and necessary.