Book Review: Calm the F@ck Down: How to Control What You Can and Accept What You Can't So You Can Stop Freaking Out and Get On With Your Life by Sarah Knight

Calm the F@ck Down: How to Control What You Can and Accept What You Can't So You Can Stop Freaking Out and Get On With Your Life by Sarah Knight is a self help book for those with too much anxiety in their lives. It is a no-f*cks-given guide to taming anxiety and taking control of your life. Do you spend more time worrying about problems than solving them? Do you let unexpected difficulties ruin your day and do "what ifs" keep you up at night? Sounds like you need to CALM THE F*CK DOWN. Just because things are falling apart doesn't mean YOU can't pull it together. Calm the F*ck Down explains:The Four Faces of Freaking Out--and their Flipsides How to accept what you can't control, Productive Helpful Effective Worrying (PHEW)The Three Principles of Dealing With It, and more.

Calm the F@ck Down is a down to earth, honest book that acknowledges the reality of both anxiety disorders and the situational anxiety. I like that the author not only recognizes the existence and validity of the anxiety readers might be struggling, but makes it clear that she has been there and not only understands what readers might be feeling but makes it clear that those emotions are real, and not something that ignoring or pretending that they do not exist will help. Knight has struggled with anxiety and found tools that work for her, and shares those tools, her experiences, and hope with readers that they can find tools that will work for them. 

I really enjoyed the blunt and honest talk, and thought the regular reminders that she is not a doctor but is sharing what works for her in hopes it can help others with plenty of support for seeing a professional for help was well done and might give someone the encouragement to seek help if they need it. This balance of suggestions and support is pretty perfect. I also enjoyed the humor that is liberally sprinkled through the book, I find the ability to laugh at myself, and situations, to be helpful to me and it seems that Knight feels the same way. I think this book is a helpful and fun read for those that deal with anxiety (both capital A and lowercase, situation anxiety) to focus their energy and effort in productive ways. 

Book Review: Unwritten by Tara Gilboy

Unwritten by Tara Gilboy is a middle grade fantasy. Twelve-year-old Gracie Freeman is living a normal life, but she is haunted by the fact that she is actually a character from a story, an unpublished fairy tale she's never read. When she was a baby, her parents learned that she was supposed to die in the story, and with the help of a magic book, took her out of the story, and into the outside world, where she could be safe. But Gracie longs to know what the story says about her. Despite her mother's warnings, Gracie seeks out the story's author, setting in motion a chain of events that draw herself, her mother, and other former storybook characters back into the forgotten tale. Inside the story, Gracie struggles to navigate the blurred boundary between who she really is and the surprising things the author wrote about her. As the story moves toward its deadly climax, Gracie realizes she'll have to face a dark truth and figure out her own fairy-tale ending.

Unwritten started of as a hard read for me, be quickly changed to an engaging adventure. When readers meet Gracie she already knows that she came out of a fairy tale along with some others, and that the author is coming to visit a local bookstore. I found all the information to be a little overwhelming and it felt a bit like a recap so I felt like maybe I had missed a previous book . However, once the major action got moving I was fully engaged i the story and it worked much better for me. I liked the struggle of the main characters in dealing with the two sides of themselves and their two stories. I really liked the idea of how we can overcome what is written, or destined, for us by taking the time and care to make the right choices. I found the secrets and lies to be good plot devices, and realistic for people to cling to in situations like the ones they faced. The thoughts and ideas about people and characters shared by Winters (the author in the story) were profound, although a little heavy handed at times. I liked the general feel of the characters, and how the interacted. I also like the fairy tale world building and character building that was done. So much really worked, but when the story was finished I had mixed feelings. I liked it, but I did not love it, and could come up with no definable reason why. 

Unwritten is a solid fantasy, with good amounts of action and character development. There is room for a sequel, but still a satisfying conclusion- so who knows there could be moren in the future.

Book Review: Last Night With the Earl (Devils of Dover) by Kelly Bowen

Last Night With the Earl is the second book in the Devils of Dover series by Kelly Bowen. I did read the first book in this series, but think that while some of the characters and situations are set up and developed in the first book, they can be read alone as well.

Earl. War hero. Notorious rake. After the Battle of Waterloo, Eli Dawes was presumed dead-and would have happily stayed that way. He's no longer the reckless young man he once was, and only half as pretty. All he wants is to hide away in his country home, where no one can see his scars. But when he tries to sneak into his old bedroom in the middle of the night, he's shocked to find someone already there. Rose Hayward remembers Eli as the arrogant lord who helped her late fiance betray her. Finding him stealing into her art studio doesn't correct her impression. Her only thought is to get him to leave immediately. Yet the tension between them is electric, and she can't help but be drawn to him. He might be back from the dead, but it's Rose who is suddenly feeling very, very much alive.

Last Night With the Earl is an engaging read and I found myself very interested in the characters and what makes them tick from the very beginning. Eli might have once been a golden boy and a rake, but war and life have forced him to grow up, and he wants to do better, be better. He is reluctant to face his demons, but does what he must to gain what he wants. Rose has been hurt, and has emotional scars, but has turned her lesson into fodder for art and helping others see themselves as they truly are rather than how society talks about them. She still has her own issues with taking her own advice, but does the best she can. When these old friends come together they have to face those demons and issues, as well as betrayals. I like how honest and open they were with each other, and how hard they each had to work with their own issues, and helping each other face up to the things they did not really deal with. That pushing each other and coming to terms with their own faults, wounds, and worries was very well done. I thought Eli and Rose were well matched, and complemented each other, and challenged each other, almost perfectly. I enjoyed the read, and was glad that I picked this one up. I think I will be continuing the series, mostly because of my curiosity about just what is going on with Rose's brother Harland. 

Last Night With the Earl is an entertaining read. I enjoyed returning to a good group of characters, and am curious about what will happen next.

Book Review: Rabbit & Bear: Rabbits Bad Habits by Julian Gough, Jim Field

Rabbit & Bear: Rabbits Bad Habits was written by Julian Gough and illustrated by Jim Field. This is the first book in what promises to be a series about Rabbit and Bear. When Bear wakes up early from her hibernation, she decides to build a snowman. Her grumpy neighbor, Rabbit, decides to build an even better one. Talk of gravity, avalanches, and eating habits lead to some interesting moments and an unlikely friendship. 

Rabbits Bad Habits is labeled a chapter book, but I think it would fit better as an easy reader or transitional chapter book for younger or struggling readers. Although some of the humor with surely entertain the older readers as well. Bear is a calm, cheerful, and hungry character that has woken up early to discover the food she has stored was stolen. So, she goes outside to have a little fun and build a snowman. Rabbit is a grumpier character, who also likes to share knowledge about gravity, avalanches, and why rabbits eat their poo. Much is said about the poo, but the other information actually comes in handy when a wolf makes an appearance. THe story had some good moments, and some that made me say why. However, I liked the development of the characters, and how they went from acquaintances to friends. 

Rabbits Bad Habits is a fun, interesting read. I think it is a book that most will love or hate, but I somehow landed in the middle.

Book Review: Third Grave Dead Ahead (Charley Davidson) by Darynda Jones

Third Grave Dead Ahead is the third book in the Charley Davidson series by Darynda Jones. I highly recommend reading this series in order. While there are explanatory asides to help newcomers and those that have gone too long between reading books, there is a lot of ground to cover and it is much more fun if you already know the major players when you start reading. 

Paranormal private eye. Grim reaper extraordinaire. Whatever. Charley Davidson is back! And she's drinking copious amounts of caffeine to stay awake because, every time she closes her eyes, she sees him: Reyes Farrow, the part-human, part-supermodel son of Satan. Yes, she did imprison him for all eternity, but come on. How is she supposed to solve a missing persons case, deal with an ego-driven doctor, calm her curmudgeonly dad, and take on a motorcycle gang hellbent on murder when the devil's son just won't give up? 

Third Grave Dead Ahead is a solid continuation of Charley's story. She wants to help Reyes, but they are still fighting with a serious trust issue and no matter what she does she cannot seem to sleep without a visitation from him. Her battles with sleep left me wondering a couple times what was real and what was dream, and Charley had the same concerns. I like Charley's dedication to finding the truth and helping people, even when it would have been easier to ignore the fishy missing person's case and focus on the drama unfolding with Reyes and her family. While not as funny as the previous books, because there was so much danger and so many crises involved, there were still some witty moments and plenty of humorous asides from Charley. Again, the book offers a good wrap up and some unexpected twists, but still left me eager for more.  

Third Grave Dead Ahead is another great installment of this series, which blends humor, danger, and emotion pretty close to perfectly. My binge reading will continue...

Book Review: Misfits (Royal Academy Rebels) by Jen Calonita

Misfits is the first book in the Royal Academy Rebels series, a follow up to the Fairy Tale Reform School series, by Jen Calonita. While you do not need to have read the first series to enjoy this one, I think it would help and be well worth it since the first series was wonderful.

In the magical fairytale kingdom of Enchantasia, becoming a legendary Prince or Princess doesn't happen overnight. Enter Royal Academy, the training ground for the fairytale leaders of tomorrow! But reluctant-future-princess and new-student Devin has some reservations about RA, especially when it comes to the Headmistress. Olivina seems obsessed with preparing students for possible villain attacks. But when Devin asks when they're going to learn how to actually rule a kingdom, Olivina becomes enraged. Something isn't right with this lady, and what Devin discovers could change the fairytale world forever.

Misfits is another delightful read about young characters that do not quite fit in finding their way. Devin knows what she wants, but the world is pushing her to be someone very different. I liked following her development and walking the line between following rules, meeting expectations, and being yourself.  She is trying to find her place in a new school, with new people, and unfamiliar rules. There is the obligatory mean girls, because every school has at least one, and the group of friends that might seem like an odd mix but works. However, new friends and experiences keep on her toes as they all discover not everything as it seems. I do feel like there was a lot of groundwork laid down in this book, setting the scene for the rest of the series. However, the read was still entertaining and went really fast. I was not ready for it to end, and am very interested in where Devin's story will take her group of friends and readers. 

Misfits is an engaging read, and my only real complaint is that I was not ready for it to end when it did. I am looking forward to continuing this series.

Book Review: Pisces Hooks Taurus (Signs of Love) by Anyta Sunday

Pisces Hooks Taurus is the fourth book in the Signs of Love series by Anyta Sunday. While it can be read and enjoyed as a standalone, I really love this series and highly recommend reading it for the full picture of the secondary characters and how everyone relates to each other. Not needed to adore this book, but so worth it.

Zane has it all planned out: fall in love, and live happily ever after. Should be simple enough if he put his mind to it. A little creativity and some thinking outside of the box, and voila, he’d be married to the woman of his dreams. It would be perfect, and it would be before his visa ran out.But why are his feelings running wild now that the pressure’s on? Why is his picture-perfect plan turning into a muddled mess of morphed metaphors he can’t make sense of anymore?Just as well he’s met an English professor to help. And even though their first meet is anything but cute, this down-to-earth teacher may just be the realist Zane needs to ground him and give him a shot at love after all.

Pisces Hooks Taurus is exactly what fans of the author and the series picked up this title looking for, and exactly what will make new readers fans. The characters are real, they have flaws and issues like the rest of us. The characters are not always swift to figure out their own minds or wants, never mind the emotions of those around them, and they muddle through towards finding their happiness. Zane doubts himself and is struggling to find his self worth, and a way to stay near his brother and new niece. He wants love and family, but things do not seem to be going the way he hoped. Beckett (Becky) is still reeling from a divorce and not quite ready to trust again. The pair fumble their way forward, making mistakes and trying to find their own ways forward. Like in real life family, complications, and misunderstandings mix with lovely moments as Zane and Becky work their way towards something real and lasting. I grinned through most of the book, as clueless comments and clever wordplay entertained me, and the story warmed my heart.

Pisces Hooks Taurus is a delightful slow burn with realistic characters and well written interactions. I really have enjoyed everything I have read from this author, and have just downloaded a few more to my Kindle to read.

Book Review: Striking at the Roots: A Practical Guide to Animal Activism 10th Anniversary Edition - New Tactics, New Technology by Mark Hawthorne

Striking at the Roots:  A Practical Guide to Animal Activism 10th Anniversary Edition - New Tactics, New Technology by Mark Hawthorne is, as you might expect from the title, an updated book about how things have changed and how we can continue to help. The book references changes from the last 10 years including the rise of social media, which is now a key part of any campaign. The book brings together the most effective tactics for speaking out for animal rights. Activists from around the globe explain why their models of activism have been successful - and how you can become involved. Concise and full of practical examples and resources, this manual for success demonstrates how many of the world's most engaged activists effectively speak to the public, lobby policymakers, and deal with law enforcement - all while keeping their eyes on the prize of achieving victories for animals. This book will empower you to make the most of your skills. From simple leafleting to taking direct action, each chapter clearly explains where to begin, what to expect, and how to ensure your message is heard.

Striking at the Roots is a resource for learning about what other animal activists have done, and how you might be able to step forward and take action as well. I like that the book covers a wide and varied number of activist actions. There is something here from just about every personality type- for the outgoing activists there are things like manning an information table protesting, or handing out leaflets and for the more introverted there is the use of social media, writing letters, and other less social possibilities. I loved reading about the animal sanctuaries, the stories of what some have done to help, and suggestions as to how readers can get involved. I also liked the mention of how activists should be cautious with the articles and news they share, making sure of its accuracy before sharing and using its information as a source. Too many people on all sides of all issues look to see if something supports their world view rather than taking the time to see if it is factual. I will say that I like that the book offers suggestions for going vegan, and many suggestions for convincing others to do the same. It is a little heavy handed on the topic on occasion, but that is not expected given the topic of the book. There are some methods listed in the book that I fully endorse (such as using the legal system and rescues to help create change) and some that I worry about (such as stealing lobsters or livestock from private property in order to liberate them). I highly suggest readers consider their personal strength, goals, and future to decide how they can do the most good. I found the final chapter, about taking care of yourself so that you can keep going, and the appendixes of extra information to be very useful and will greatly assist readers when are deciding what they are going to do, and how to do it effectively and safely 

Striking at the Roots is not a fun or comfortable read. However it is a very useful tool and resource for those determined to make a difference on behalf of animals. If you are looking for ideas, tools, and information about changes you can make and how you can encourage others to make changes as well then I would recommend this book. 

Book Review: The Crochet Stitch Handbook The Essential Illustrated Reference: Over 200 Traditional and Contemporary Stitches with Easy-to-Follow Charts by Betty Barnden

The Crochet Stitch Handbook The Essential Illustrated Reference: Over 200 Traditional and Contemporary Stitches with Easy-to-Follow Charts by Betty Barnden includes step-by-step instructions for basic stitches, textured stitches, fans and shells stitches, mesh and filet stitches, openwork and lace stitches, trims and edgings, clusters, puffs, bobbles, spike, relief, Tunisian, multi-color, squares, and special stitches.

If you crochet, you likely have one or two books like this somewhere in your home. A guide or handbook that offers the basics of a variety of stitches, yarns, and techniques.I happen to have three- mostly because one went missing for a bit and two quickly made their appearance, and then the wayward book reappeared.  I often flip through these books when I want to make a new afghan, scarf, or other project and am looking for something more than a basic stitch. Sometimes I am looking for a certain texture or square that I could use to build something unique, or a special edging for an extra touch. Or just to try and hopefully master something new.

The Crochet Stitch Handbook is a solid example of this style of book. I was excited to see little things included that often fall by the wayside, like the extended single stitch. Many of the instructions, stitches, and motifs were familiar or similar to ones that I have seen before, which is expected. I like that there is a key on the edge of each page to give the reader information on the stitch. The only thing I was missing was the information on the way the finished stitch drapes, which another book I have offers- and that often aids in my decision making process for choosing a stitch. However, the instructions and images were well paired and very easy to follow. I would not recommend it for fresh beginners that have just started out and are still learning all of the language and abbreviations, but anyone that has the basics down would do well with this book as their go to guide for stitches and inspiration. 

Book Review: We Build Our Homes by Laura Knowles, Carla Madden

We Build Our Homes is a nonfiction book for young readers written by Laura Knowles and illustrated by Carla Madden. It’s not only humans who can build incredible structures: around the world, mammals, birds, and insects can be found building incredible things. From biggest beaver dams to tiniest caddisfly cases, this beautifully illustrated picture book explores each one and uncovers the reasons why they build. Each spread looks at a different animal, told as though from their viewpoint. The amazing animal architects featured include bower birds and weaver birds, gophers and beavers, termites, honey bees, and many more.

We Build Our Homes has a lovely balance between beautifully realistic artwork and text that is informative, accessable, and rhythmic. I liked learning a few new things about how particular animals build and care for their homes, and why they make some of the choices they do. I also like that creatures in the book are grouped by animal type; birds, insects, then larger animals. The birds and other builders include both well known home builders- such as bower birds and bees, but some creatures that are not always the first to come to mind. I also like that they included the world map and people in the book. I really think that the combination of lyrical text in understandable and accessible phrasing and delightful illustrations will capture the attention of many young readers, and the adults that might be sharing it with them. For those will a shorter attention span, or to break it up so the experience lasts longer, reading the book in sections (birds, insects, then reptiles and mammals) might make sense.