Sunday, May 31, 2015

Book Review: Turning Points

Turning Points was a book that I had to read for a college class on Baptist history and Christianity; although only about 75% of the book was assigned for the class, I ended up reading the remaining chapters as well for my own benefit (although I personally got more out of the first 75%, but that's probably because I absolutely had to remember in case of a quiz the following day).

The book covers thirteen important turning points in the history of Christianity, although the author makes note that these thirteen are certainly not the only crucial turning points. Each chapter is informative and gives general information about the event before plunging in and explaining why it was important, and what impact it had in Christianity. I learned a lot from the book, particularly about events that I had a general knowledge of--such as the coronation of Charlemagne--but had never dove into deeply in order to understand why the event played out the way it did nor how it affected other events.

I would recommend this book to someone studying the history of Christianity, or someone looking for a deeper knowledge of important events which Noll covers. I bought this book, and therefore was not asked nor required to write a review. These opinions are my own; I was not required to write a positive review, nor was I compensated for this review.

Saturday, May 30, 2015

Book Review: Inspiralized: Turn Vegetables into Healthy, Creative, Satisfying Meals

This is the first cookbook I have ever gotten myself, so I wasn't sure what exactly to expect or hope for. However, I am pleased to say that I think I will enjoy and use Inspiralized once I've settled into my future home--although some of the recipes can be made in a college dorm, as well! Now I just need to find myself a spiralizer...

I was very impressed by the easy and understandable setup of Maffucci's book. At the beginning, she introduces the book by explaining the importance of eating healthy, but also how her recipes allow  versatility depending on individual food interests. I liked that she gave an overview of the spiralizer itself, and explained which blades should be used for certain results, as well as what vegetables should and should not be used with it. For a cooking newbie, I found this very helpful (without making me feel super stupid).

Inspiralized also includes charts showing the health benefits of the fruits and vegetables used, as well as in comparison to dishes such as regular pasta. Overall, I thought the book was very informative of basic healthy eating essentials, as well as containing countless recipes for healthy and creative dishes. I received a free copy of this book from the publisher for this review. These opinions are my own; I was not required to write a positive review, nor was I compensated for this review.

Friday, May 29, 2015

Book Review: From the Start

This book was so stinking cute. From the Start is definitely on my favorites list as of now. Melissa Tagg wove a fantastic, unique plot filled with three dimensional characters. I liked that Colton, one of the two main characters, was a former football player (even though I know nothing of football...) dealing with a lot of life changes, as well as ghosts of the past.

The other main character, Kate, was the one I think I identified with the most, which made me like her more. The interest the two developed for each other was cute, realistic, and identifiable. But it still ended well, which I appreciated. :-) This is the first book of Tagg's which I have read; I definitely plan on keeping an eye out for more of her books!

I would definitely recommend this book. The cute romance weaved in with real life problems turned into a terrific blend which I enjoyed immensely. I received a free copy of this book from the publisher for this review. These opinions are my own; I was not required to write a positive review, nor was I compensated for this review.

Friday, May 22, 2015

Book Review: Beyond All Dreams

I loved this book. Beyond All Dreams was highly unique in its plot. The story line followed a young, female librarian in a time period that was just beginning to accept females as employees. Anna served as a map librarian in the library of Congress; she was a vivid character that was well rounded and developed, as well as unique in her interests.

Equally as vivid and rounded was the co-main character, Luke. In this plot, he played the part of a young, ambitious congressman who was quickly making his way to the top when he gained an interest in Anna as soon as their paths crossed. Their brewing romance was made more real by Anna's reluctance to participate in favor of her job.

I liked that both characters had their own flaws and dark parts of their histories, but that both overcame them in the end. I would definitely recommend this book to others. I received a free copy of this book from the publisher for this review. These opinions are my own; I was not required to write a positive review, nor was I compensated for this review.

Tuesday, May 5, 2015

Book Review: After A Fashion

After A Fashion was a book I wasn't sure of initially, but became very glad that I decided to read it. This was one of the most entertaining books I've read in a long time. The main character, Harriet, had a wit that was very amusing to read. The interactions between her and Oliver, the other main character, were original and interesting.

The plot was crazy original, so much so that I really had no idea what was going to happen most of the time (not so crazy as to lose interest, though). The ending caught me by total surprise. It caught me by surprise, and unraveled in such a way that I felt like I was in Harriet's shoes, being totally blown away and caught off guard as it happened. This was definitely a refreshing read after a semester of reading for school!

I would definitely recommend this books. I'll also be holding onto this book for my personal collection; I'm sure I'll reread it at some point in the future. I received a free copy of this book from the publisher for this review. These opinions are my own; I was not required to write a positive review, nor was I compensated for this review.