Friday’s Find – Meme – H1N1

Posted on October 29, 2009 by Bobbie Crawford-McCoy

Friday's Find Book Reviews By Bobbie

We’ll chat about a fascinating book, audiobook, movie, blog, website, etc. It might be trendy or unpopular, old or new…it’s sure to be interesting and it’s hosted by yours truly! Please offer your thoughts on our Friday’s Find and share your own. Don’t forget to link-back to Book Reviews By Bobbie; if you leave a comment in this week’s Friday’s Find, other people will be able to stop by & read your post as well.

This Friday ’s Find is a VIRUS:

H1N1

Influenza A (H1N1) virus is a subtype of influenzavirus A and the most common cause of influenza (flu) in humans. Some strains of H1N1 are endemic in humans and cause a small fraction of all influenza-like illness and a large fraction of all seasonal influenza. H1N1 strains caused roughly half of all human flu infections in 2006. Other strains of H1N1 are endemic in pigs (swine influenza) and in birds (avian influenza).

In June 2009, World Health Organization declared that flu due to a new strain of swine-origin H1N1 was responsible for the 2009 flu pandemic. This strain is often called “swine flu” by the public media.

Swine influenza (also called swine flu, hog flu, pig flu and sometimes, the swine) is an infection by any one of several types of swine influenza virus. Swine influenza virus (SIV) is any strain of the influenza family of viruses that is endemic in pigs. As of 2009, the known SIV strains include influenza C and the subtypes of influenza A known as H1N1, H1N2, H3N1, H3N2, and H2N3.

Swine influenza virus is common throughout pig populations worldwide. Transmission of the virus from pigs to humans is not common and does not always lead to human influenza, often resulting only in the production of antibodies in the blood. If transmission does cause human influenza, it is called zoonotic swine flu. People with regular exposure to pigs are at increased risk of swine flu infection. The meat of an infected animal poses no risk of infection when properly cooked.

During the mid-20th century, identification of influenza subtypes became possible, allowing accurate diagnosis of transmission to humans. Since then, only 50 such transmissions have been confirmed. These strains of swine flu rarely pass from human to human. Symptoms of zoonotic swine flu in humans are similar to those of influenza and of influenza-like illness in general, namely chills, fever, sore throat, muscle pains, severe headache, coughing, weakness and general discomfort. The recommended time of isolation is about five days.

Preliminary genetic characterization found that the hemagglutinin (HA) gene was similar to that of swine flu viruses present in U.S. pigs since 1999, but the neuraminidase (NA) and matrix protein (M) genes resembled versions present in European swine flu isolates. The six genes from American swine flu are themselves mixtures of swine flu, bird flu, and human flu viruses. While viruses with this genetic makeup had not previously been found to be circulating in humans or pigs, there is no formal national surveillance system to determine what viruses are circulating in pigs in the U.S.

On June 11, 2009, the WHO declared an H1N1 pandemic, moving the alert level to phase 6, marking the first global pandemic since the 1968 Hong Kong flu.

An October 11, 2009 worldwide update by the U.N.’s World Health Organization (WHO) states that “74 countries have officially reported over 399,234 laboratory confirmed cases of the influenza pandemic H1N1 infection, including 4,735 deaths.”

Already this fall, 292 deaths have been reported by the 28 states reporting laboratory-confirmed H1N1 cases to the CDC. Schuchat said the number of cases likely reflected under-reporting, but that the ages of affected patients was probably a good reflection of practice.

The age breakdown was:

* 3.1% ages 4 and under
* 13.7% ages 5 to 18
* 6.8% ages 19 to 24
* 32.5% ages 25 to 49
* 32.2% ages 50 to 64
* 11.6% ages 65 and older

Over the same Sept. 1 to Oct. 10 period, there were 4,958 laboratory-confirmed H1N1-related hospitalizations reported to the CDC by 27 states.

The ages of those hospitalized were:

* 19% ages 4 and younger
* 25.3% ages 5 to 18
* 8.7% ages 19 to 24
* 24% ages 25 to 49
* 15% ages 50 to 64
* 7.2% ages 65 and older

On October 25, 2009 U.S. President Barack Obama officially declared H1N1 a “national emergency”.

A study -conducted in coordination with the University of Michigan Health Service- is scheduled for publication in the December 2009 American Journal of Roentgenology warning that H1N1 flu can cause pulmonary emboli, surmised as a leading cause of death in this current pandemic. The study authors suggest physician evaluation via contrast enhanced CT scans for the presence of pulmonary emboli when caring for patients diagnosed with respiratory complications from a “severe” case of the H1N1 flu.

DS and I got our seasonal flu and H1N1 vaccination today and I’m happy that we did. It will take 2 weeks before we have immunity but at least we’ve taken the first step!

Are YOU going to get vaccinated?

Continue reading →

Friday’s Find – Meme

Posted on October 23, 2009 by Bobbie Crawford-McCoy

Friday's Find Book Reviews By Bobbie

This Friday ’s Find is a MOVIE:

Zombieland

Zombieland sounds like a crazy movie but I really want to see it! ;) It arrived in theatres on October 2nd, 2009. It stars Jesse Eisenberg, Emma Stone, Abigail Breslin and Woody Harrelson and centers around a zombie infested planet where just a few humans are still trying to survive.

About the Movie:
“In the horror comedy Zombieland focuses on two men who have found a way to survive a world overrun by zombies. Columbus is a big wuss — but when you’re afraid of being eaten by zombies, fear can keep you alive. Tallahassee is an AK-toting, zombie-slaying’ bad ass whose single determination is to get the last Twinkie on earth. As they join forces with Wichita and Little Rock, who have also found unique ways to survive the zombie mayhem, they will have to determine which is worse: relying on each other or succumbing to the zombies.” Written by Columbia Pictures

Book Review – Chosen by Desire (ARC)

Posted on October 22, 2009 by Bobbie Crawford-McCoy

Chosen by Desire,
Book 2 in The Guardians of Destiny Series
Written by: Kate Perry
Published by: Forever
Date: October 1st, 2009
Pages: 368
Format: Mass Market Paperback
ISBN: 978-0446541015
(Available NOW!)

“Chosen by Desire is a mouth-watering paranormal romance guaranteed to make you blush; a fast-paced story that pulses with action, emotion and luscious, sensual romance”

Bookish and devoted to her work, Carrie Woods is the last person who you could imagine as a thief; yet here she is, stealing ancient texts and scrolls from a Chinese monastery for her research project. Terrified by her criminal behavior, Carrie is doubly shocked when a monk seems catches her attention. With steely determination, Carrie clutches her bag of stolen goodies even closer to her and carries on her way. Maximillian Prescott knew by her nervous movements that the blond woman had something that didn’t belong to her. In his monk robe he felt that it should be someone elses job to find out what she had taken; unfortunately, Max’s master had other plans. As Max re-joins the outside world he lures the unsuspecting Carrie into a trap; needing to know exactly what she has stolen from the monastery, Max becomes her employer, which puts Carrie in his home, right where he wants her.

I have enjoyed both books in this fantastic series and if anything, book 2 is even better! I loved this story and I adored all the piping-hot sensuality and sexual tension that surrounds Max and Carrie, when they are together. Max is gorgeous, gruff, domineering and guarded while Carrie is open, honest (except for the latest misstep) and generous to a fault; they compliment each other well and I fell in love with their story. There is sizzling erotic bedroom (and other places) scenes; they are descriptive and sexy HOT, HOT, HOT! I enjoyed the witty banter between Carrie and Max as well as the relationship between Carrie & her mother and Carrie & Gabe, from Book 1 in the series.
I very highly recommend this book to Kate Perry fans and to all paranormal romance lovers!!!

♦♦♦♦♦♦♦♦♦♦ (10 out of 10 Diamonds) – Absolutely LOVED it!!

Read more about Chosen by Desire.
Find out where to buy this book.

Author’s Website
Publisher’s Website

A special thanks to Hachette Book Group for sending me a copy of this book to review.

Book Review – Highland Rebel (ARC)

Posted on October 22, 2009 by Bobbie Crawford-McCoy

Highland Rebel,
A Tale of a Rebellious Lady and a Traitorous Lord
Written by: Judith James
Published by: Sourcebooks Casablanca
Date: September 1st, 2009
Pages: 480
Format: Mass Market Paperback
ISBN: 978-1402224331
(Available NOW!)

“Highland Rebel blends history and fiery romance together in an adventurous story of divided loyalties, betrayal and blazing passion”

Detached and jaded, Jamie Sinclair wants to do nothing more than follow his orders and return home to reap the rewards for his faithful service; until one day on a battlefield, when he meets and mistakes Catherine Drummond for a lad and he is forced to act. Before long, Jamie and the rest of the men realize that the struggling youth is actually a woman. To save Catherine (Cat) from the blood thirsty band of mercenaries, Jamie finds himself married to the daughter of a Highland laird and heiress. Through out all of the confusion, Cat remains suspicious and fears the worst about her captivity and the handsome, aloof Englishman who guards her.

This story grabbed my attention from the first page and held on until the very end! The story is fast-paced, full of intrigue, excitement (bloody battles) and romance. The plot has really good momentum so there is never a dull moment. The camaraderie between Cat and Jamie that made me laugh, smile and really pulled me deeper into the story. The romantic chemistry between the two main characters really sizzles off the page.
I highly recommend this book for romance readers who enjoy lots of romance with their historical adventure stories!

♦♦♦♦♦♦♦♦♦ (9 out of 10 Diamonds) – Loved it!

Read more about Highland Rebel.
Find out where to buy this book.

Author’s Website
Publisher’s Website

A special thanks to Sourcebooks, Inc. for sending me a copy of this book to review.

Book Review – Earth to Table

Posted on October 13, 2009 by Bobbie Crawford-McCoy

Earth to Table,
Seasonal Recipes from an Organic Farm
Written by: Jeff Crump and Bettina Schormann
Published by: Random House Canada
Date: September 15th, 2009
Pages: 336
Format: Hardcover
ISBN: 978-0307356840

Earth to Table is much more than a cookbook; it covers a wide range of organic, “slow food” topics, delicious and unique recipes that use all-organic ingredients and features several Chief profiles.

A sample of the recipes inside:

Scrambled Eggs with Chives and Caviar
Pesto
Saffron Rice
Rhubarb Fool
Maple Shoofly Pie
New Potatoes Salad with Green Beans and Shallots
Grilled Corn on the Cob with Chilies and Cheese
French Vanilla Ice Cream
Shortcakes with Chantilly Cream and Macerated Strawberries
Plum Tarts
French Onion Soup
Pizza Dough
Roasted Pork Loin with Fennel
Braised Short Ribs
Apple Tarts
Double Crispy Onion Rings
Herbed Dumplings
Sticky Toffee Pudding
…and a whole lot more!

Jeff Crump is an Excutive Canadian Chef who has worked in a number of the world’s top restruants; Lumiere in Vancouver B.C., The Fat Duck, Bray, England and at Chez Panisse in Berkeley, California. Jeff is a Canadian Slow Food pioneer and he promotes the use of seasonal food that is grown locally.

Bettina Schormann is a Pastry Chief who began her career in culinary arts after receiving a degree at the University of Windsor. She has worked in every section of the restaurant, including service. Pastry has since become her passion. Bettina has won numerous awards including the Lindt Chocolate Competition and the OHI Professional Pastry Chef Award. She has studied the pastry arts in Paris, New York and Toronto. Bettina has been pivotal in the unique relationship between the Ancaster Old Mill Restaurant and ManoRun Organic Farm.

This securely bound, hardcover cookbook is just the thing for cooks who are very selective and prefer to use organic foods; it is also a very functional cookbook for those of us who are non-organic cooks and food consumers. Each of the seasonal recipe sections is prefaced with an introduction that talks about the foods available during that particular season; the flavorful and imaginative recipes are easy to understand and easy to follow with a clear layout that makes this a great cookbook for beginners, right on up to experienced cooks. There are several enlightening profiles that feature Chiefs from around the world; they add some of their feelings and explain some of their personal ideas about food and the restaurant business. There are lots of gorgeous, full-colour photographs that enhance an already enjoyable cookbook. There is a concluding section at the back of the cookbook that includes 18 extra, basic recipes that every cook needs to know, followed by an appendix and an index. Some of the recipes are a little too trendy and modern for my tastes, but I’m really old fashioned when it comes to food so don’t let it stop YOU from picking up a copy of Earth to Table.

♦♦♦♦♦♦♦♦ (8 out of 10 Diamonds) – Thoroughly enjoyed it

Read more about Earth to Table.
Find out where to buy this book.

Author’s Website
Publisher’s Website

A special thanks to Random House Canada for sending me a copy of this book to review.

Sunday Sit-Down

Posted on October 11, 2009 by Bobbie Crawford-McCoy

Sunday Sit-Down

For me, Sunday’s are a day for catching up on some: housework, blog related-tasks and figuring out what I’m going to do in the coming week. I thought it would also be a nice idea to recap a little of what’s been going on in my life and on my blog. If you’d like to join in on this meme, I encourage you to do so. :) It’s a nice way to let others know what you’ve been up to, where you’ve been (on the Internet or in “real” life) and help us keep track of everything that’s going on. Don’t forget to link back to the Sunday Sit-Down post at Book Reviews By Bobbie, so others can read your post too!

This week brought with it the first signs of winter; it snowed several time and the temperatures dropped down to -11 degrees celsius with the windchill…brrrr. The leaves are falling off the trees in a hurry and the grass is almost dead but this is to be expected.
I had the pleasure of hosting 3 lovely guest authors on Monday; Emily Bryan, Jennifer Ashley and Alissa Johnson joined us for the day, generously giving away 3 books and they talked about their latest release, A Christmas Ball. On Tuesday, I re-posted an article about the potential effect that the new FTC Regulations will have on Canadian Bloggers. Our Friday’s Find highlighted a gorgeous, upcoming book called The Bedside Book of Beasts by Graeme Gibson; its available for pre-order right now and it is available to the general public on October 20th, 2009. Last but certainly not least, I want to wish everyone a very Happy Thanksgiving! This time of year is so fun; even though we are far from most of our family, we start bundling up and before you know it, Christmas arrives! Christmas is my favorite time of year with caroling, the smell of pine needles, lots of great food and being surrounded by the ones we love. So, a very HAPPY THANKSGIVING to you all and I wish you many, many more to come!

What have you been up to this week?

Friday’s Find – Meme

Posted on October 9, 2009 by Bobbie Crawford-McCoy

Friday's Find Book Reviews By Bobbie

This Friday ’s Find is a BOOK:

The Bedside Book of Beasts by Graeme Gibson

I received my finished, hardcover review copy of The Book Bedside Book of Beasts yesturday and it is so georgeous that I HAD to make it this Friday’s Find! This gorgeous book isn’t available until October 20th, 2009 but don’t let that stop you from pre-ordering a copy.

About the Book:

The Bedside Book of Beasts

“In a wonderfully diverse selection of writings and gorgeous illustrations, this stunning companion to The Bedside Book of Birds explores the relationship between predators and their prey.

The intricate, complex connection between the hunter and the hunted has defined animal life on earth throughout time. In The Bedside Book of Beasts, Graeme Gibson gathers breathtaking works of art and literature that capture the power, grace, and inventiveness of both predators and their natural prey.

The Bedside Book of Beasts presents myths, fables, poetry, and excerpts from nature and travel writing, journals, sacred texts, and works of fiction. Within these pages we encounter big cats, bears, wolves, and the small but voracious praying mantis, as well as works that bring to life the experience of more vulnerable prey. Portraits of such legendary evil beasts as the Minotaur, Grendel, and the biblical Leviathan add to the depth and breadth of the collection. An impressive array of art, both traditional and contemporary, as well as scientific, religious, and mythological drawings, paintings, and woodcuts make this volume an utterly unique gift for the holidays or any occasion.

A fascinating exploration of the chain of life, of survival and mortality, The Bedside Book of Beasts evokes a profound sense of the eternal connection between humans and the creatures they endeavor to tame.”

About the Author:

Graeme Gibson is the acclaimed author of Five Legs, Perpetual Motion, and Gentleman Death. He is a past president of PEN Canada and the recipient of both the Harbourfront Festival Prize and the Toronto Arts Award, and is a member of the Order of Canada. He has been a council member of World Wildlife Fund Canada, and is chairman of the Pelee Island Bird Observatory. He lives in Toronto with writer Margaret Atwood.

Photo Credit: Dennis Minty Photo

“Blogger payola getting a pass in Canada”

Posted on October 6, 2009 by Bobbie Crawford-McCoy

Re-printed from CBC News.ca
This article was written by: By Peter Nowak

U.S. authorities are using the threat of big fines to force bloggers to disclose their relationships with the companies they write about, but jurisidictional confusion means no similar mechanisms exist or are under consideration in Canada.

The Federal Trade Commission on Monday announced new rules that require bloggers in the United States to disclose “material connections” — or “connections that consumers would not expect” — with the subjects they write about. The connections can take the form of outright payments, advertisements or free products given to the blogger by the subject.

“The post of a blogger who receives cash or in-kind payment to review a product is considered an endorsement. Thus, bloggers who make an endorsement must disclose the material connections they share with the seller of the product or service,” the FTC said in a statement on its website.

Bloggers who fail to disclose such connections will face fines up to $11,000 U.S. per post, and complaints will be dealt with by the FTC on a case-by-case basis.

The rules in Canada, however, are less clear because of confusion over who has jurisdiction over bloggers. The Canadian Radio-television and Telecommunications Commission says that while it regulates some aspects of internet connections, it does not oversee content delivered over the web.

The CRTC is in the midst of deciding whether it should begin enforcing some sort of Canadian content rules — similar to those found in television and radio — on the internet.

The Competition Bureau, which does have jurisdiction over truth in Canadian advertising, says it is looking into the issue of bloggers and disclosure, but adds that its measures are not as proactive in preventing abuses as the FTC’s.

“Typically we’re not in the business of what people have to say. Whatever you say has to be true, but it’s not about what you didn’t say,” said spokesman Ian Jack.

The U.S. agency also has a clear mandate to govern what appears on the internet, whereas several bodies in Canada, such as the Competition Bureau and the Privacy Commissioner, share powers.

“It’s one of these multiple jurisdictional things in Ottawa unfortunately in a way that just isn’t [there] in Washington, which probably gives them more ability to identify any problem they see on the internet and do something about it, or think about doing something about it,” Jack said.

Janet Feasby, vice-president for Advertising Standards Canada, the advertising industry’s self-regulating body, said she has not received any complaints about bloggers so far.

She said if any complaints do come in, the group could evaluate them under the same rule used for determining disguised advertising techniques in other media. That rule states that “no advertisement shall be presented in a format or style which conceals its commercial intent.”

John Lawford, counsel for the Public Interest Advocacy Centre, a consumer watchdog group, said that any existing rules are designed to only go after the advertisers themselves, and not middlemen such as bloggers.

“[The FTC] is trying to put liability on the blogger, which I think might scare the heck out of a bunch of individuals,” he said.

While he hopes the new rules don’t cast a pall on genuine conversation online, Lawford said they should help to root out bloggers who are trying to dupe consumers — a situation that is definitely happening in Canada.

“I have my own usual-suspects list myself,” he said, declining to name specific websites.

Thomas Purves, who runs the Wireless North blog from Toronto, said the FTC’s move is a double-edged sword in that it will help stamp out some deceptive advertising, but it will also cramp individuals trying to build small businesses.

“It’s tough for a consumer because you don’t know what to trust. It’s relatively easy for a company to pay folks to say nice things about them,” he said. “At the same time, it’s tough for someone to have an independent business doing it because there isn’t much money in it.”

Purves, who said he sometimes accepts free products yet retains the right to decide whether to write about them or not, said the FTC will also have a hard time enforcing its rules because of the evolving nature of social media.

“Is a Twitter post a blog post? Do I have to disclose in 140 characters that I was paid to post on something?”

SOURCE: http://www.cbc.ca/technology/story/2009/10/05/ftc-blogger-disclosure-standards-fines.html

3 Guest Authors & a 3-Book Giveaway (giveaway has ended)

Posted on October 5, 2009 by Bobbie Crawford-McCoy

Book Giveaway WINNERS:

Winner of a book from Alissa: Vicki

Winner of a backlist book from Emily: Linda B

And the Grand Prize winner of A CHRISTMAS BALL is: Quilt Lady

I am so pleased to be hosting Emily Bryan, Jennifer Ashley and Alissa Johnson as they celebrate the release of their anthology, A Christmas Ball. The official release date was last week, on September 29th, 2009.

These three lovely authors will be guest posting today with a Q & A, new excerpt from each of their stories and a 3-book giveaway. They have generously offered to giveaway 2 books from Emily or Alissa’s backlist AND a third lucky commenter will win a copy of A Christmas Ball !!!

Take it away ladies!

Question and Answer (Q&A) with:

Where did you find your inspiration, for your part of the anthology?

Jennifer: My story, “The Longest Night,” involves two characters introduced in “Highlander Ever After,” a book in my historical/paranormal, Nvengaria series. I’d been wanting to write the story of Mary and Valentin (the “Highlander” hero’s sister and the sexy Nvengarian baron she nursed when he was shot), but I’ve been caught up in too many other books. I jumped at the chance to write their story in this anthology. So that was my “inspiration.” (More like, “Oh goody, I get to write about Mary and Valentin!”)

Emily: I decided to do a sort of Cinderella/Fish-out-of-water story and what’s more out of place at a fancy ball than a scullery maid in her well-born half-sister’s ball gown? I’m also a huge Oscar Wilde fan, so I wanted to make “My Lady Below Stairs” an ensemble piece, with several relationships on a collision course. I had great fun writing this story and hope you’ll love it!

Alissa: Well, I’ve never had entire story inspired by one person or one event, but I do take inspiration from people and places to create specific scenes (see question number 4.) And I did listen to Christmas music to get into the holiday spirit.

Who had the wonderful idea for this collaboration?

Alissa: Our fantastic editor Leah Hultenschmidt.

Jennifer: The idea came from our editor at Dorchester. She asked the three of us to participate, and then we worked with her on the details of the setting and so forth.

Emily: Since all our characters are attending the same grand ball, we had to agree on the hosts of the ball, the floor plan of the mansion, décor, etc with Leah as the final decider on the shared details. But I must say, Jennifer, Alissa and I have collaborated more on this blog tour than we did on our stories! Each of our novellas are independent of each other, except for setting.

How long did it take you to write your part of the story?

Jennifer: It’s all kind of a blur now, LOL! The story was due in March, and I think I started it at the end of January. But I was also working on another full-length book at the time. Probably about three or four weeks from first word to final, polished manuscript.

Emily: Whoa, Jenn! Smokin’! Mine took longer because I had a break in the middle of it to wrestle with colon cancer. (If your doctor says you need a screening, go! I had NO SYMPTOMS! Early detection has given me a very rosy prognosis, thank you God and my brilliant GP!) So my story took several months, in fits and starts.

Alissa: Longer than I expected. It was my first novella, and (silly me) I thought the shorter length would equal less time spent at the keyboard. I failed to factor in how challenging it would be to flesh out my characters in the space allotted. I have a whole new respect for those who write novellas on a regular basis.

Do you model your characters after real-life people?

Jennifer: I usually don’t. That said, some people might have a characteristic or mannerism of someone I’ve met, or be a combination of people I know. But characters take on a life of their own–even if I start with someone in mind, the end product if completely different. My characters are unique human beings to me.

Emily: No, I’ve never done a “the names have been changed to protect the innocent” thing. But I did pattern the little dog in SILK DREAMS (one of my Diana Groe books) after my geriatric pound puppy, Susie! I figure she’s not going to sue me if I got it wrong!

Alissa: I haven’t, really, though the scene in which Patience eats a whole slice of cake in one bite was inspired by a friend with a similar talent.

How many years have you been writing?

Jennifer: I’ve been writing since I was eight. I’ve been writing with an eye to publication since about 1994. I’ve been writing with a really serious “I’m going to to this for a living, dang it” purpose since 1999. I’ve been a published author since 2002.

Emily: I started in 2001 and have been published since 2006 (first as Diana Groe for more dramatic historicals set in the Dark Ages, then as Emily in 2008 for my light-hearted fare!) A CHRISTMAS BALL is my 7th published book.

Alissa: I’ve been writing for fun since I’ve been old enough to hold pen to paper, but it’s been less than five years since I began writing with the goal of being published.

Is there any hope for more stories to come out of those in the anthology?

Jennifer: For me, probably not. I already have three other books in this series, and I’ve moved on to new ones (The Madness of Lord Ian series; a new shape shifter series starting with Pride Mates in Feb.; and a new UF series as Allyson James called “Stormwalker” out in May 2010). So many stories to tell, so little time!

Emily: No, I thought readers might enjoy a stand alone story since A CHRISTMAS BALL is seasonal.

Alissa: There’s always hope. I’d enjoy writing a romance for Patience’s friend, Caroline Meldrin.

What book or books are you currently working on, now that The Christmas Ball is completed?

Jennifer: A bunch of stuff–Pride Mates, by Jennifer Ashley (Feb. 2010; I’m proofreading it now). Stormwalker, by Allyson James (May 2010 at Berkley; that’s being read by my editor now). Lady Isabella’s Scandalous marriage, by Jennifer Ashley (July 2010 at Berkley; ms. being finished by me now). “Shifter Made” by Jennifer Ashley, a short story (connected to Pride Mates) in the Mammoth Book of Irish Romance (I just got the edits on it). A novella to be out in Wedding Favors (anthology), by Allyson James with Berkley Heat in May 2010 (writing that now). Lots to do!

Emily: I just typed “the end” on STROKE OF GENIUS, which will be out in June 2010. So I’m in the limbo land of figuring out what’s next. It’s a little disconcerting since the story has been consuming me for a few months now. Letting go of one cast of characters and assembling the next is always a dicey time. Anything can happen. I just have to figure out what.

Alissa: The fourth book in my Providence Series, Destined to Last, is in the editing stage and due to be released in the spring. I’m working on the proposal for a new historical series as well.

What’s your favorite snack food when you’re writing a story?

Jennifer: Trader Joe’s chocolate chip merengue cookies. 30 calories a cookie. I’m trying to lose weight and I allow myself a couple of those a day. Other than that I don’t snack when I write. Bad habit, which is why I now need to lose weight! However, I do have a glass of iced tea by my side at all times. (I live in a hot climate, so I drink it year-round. Un-sweetened.)

Emily: I actually don’t eat while I write either. I do however consume huge quantities of Cherry Coke Zero. Unfortunately, I snack while I watch TV with the DH. I think carrying weight is an occupational hazard for writers so I reward myself each day by hitting the treadmill after I finish my page count. And I do mean reward. I need to move after sitting so long.

Alissa: Just about anything you put in front of me. I have a particular weakness for sweets.

Coffee, Tea or Hot Chocolate…what’s your favourite?

Jennifer: Tea. Because I’m trying to lose weight and lower my caffeine intake, I’m trying a lot of green and white teas. I’m in love right now with African Rooibos, which is an herbal tea. I’m having so much fun tea tasting!

Emily: Coffee! My DH gets up each morning and grinds the beans to make a fresh pot. The aroma really gets me going! Honestly, if coffee tasted as good as it smells, it would have to be a controlled substance!

Alissa: Coffee, I have to have. Hot chocolate, I love to have. Tea, I will have cold.

Have you ever wanted to travel back in time to the Regency era?

Jennifer: Yes, as long as I get to take antibiotics with me, and I could transport my bathroom with all its plumbing. I’d make a wussy time-traveler! But…yes, I’d love to see the beautiful buildings, wear the clothes, talk the talk, try the food and drink. I guess what I need is a TARDIS, so I could visit, but still have my modern conveniences with me.

Emily: No. While I love to read about it, I wouldn’t want to live in the early 19th century. I’m a classically trained soprano and sang professional opera. In the course of my stage work, I’ve worn corsets and bustles, panniers and stays. Ugh! Of course, Regency clothing was a little more comfortable, but those long column gowns restricted movement and didn’t lend themselves to much of a brisk walk. Sometimes, the sleeves were tight enough to keep women from lifting their arms above their heads. Then when you think about the restrictions on women’s lives, restrictive clothing seems a minor convenience. Legally, a woman was treated as if she was a child or a mentally challenged person. I love the freedoms I enjoy as a woman now.

Alissa: I’d like to visit, but I’m much too attached to things like microwaves, vaccines, and the right to vote to make it an extended stay.

Is there anything else that you would like to share with us?

Jennifer: I’ve really enjoyed teaming up with Emily and Alissa to bring out this fun book!

Emily: Back at you, Jenn. When Leah invited me to join you and Alissa on this project, I was thrilled.

Alissa: Just another thank you to readers for being here today!

ALL-NEW Excerpts from A Christmas Ball

FROM “The Longest Night” by Jennifer Ashley

Valentin glided to Mary and took her arm. She didn’t trust herself alone with him, but she didn’t have enough confidence in her skating ability to push from him as he skimmed her away from the others.

“You fell?” His breath hung in the air beside her ear. “Are you all right?”

“Fine, if slightly bruised. Both my pride and my backside.”

“Perhaps we should go inside, then.”

She did not trust herself alone inside with him, either. “No, no. I am of hearty Scottish stock, not a wilting weed. I will survive it.”

Mary thought she might not survive his warm body against her side, or the way his thigh brushed hers with every gliding step. She took a long breath, trying to cool herself with the frigid air.

Valentin held her easily as they skated on, his balance supporting hers. “What have you discovered from the duchess?”

His mission. Of course. “That her favorite English Christmas customs are those that might involve men losing their trousers.”

Valentin’s half-smile returned, and Mary decided she should stop joking. She would melt right through the ice if he kept smiling at her like that. “Jesting aside, she seems harmless. We have unpacked, and Duchess Mina has made plans to skate, light the Yule log, and carry a wassail bowl about to the neighbors. She likes the idea of kissing under the mistletoe, so she has ordered it hung everywhere. Beware of that when you enter the house.”

“Hmm.” Valentin’s brow furrowed, as though he were trying to decipher what sort of code Yule logs, mistletoe, and wassail might mean.

“The duchess has so far not pumped Julia about her father’s business, tried to pry English secrets out of her, or confessed a desire to overthrow the Nvengarian government,” Mary went on. “Either she is very careful, or she is innocent. I can not believe she’d know nothing of her husband’s involvement in insidious plots.”

“Grand Duke Alexander is never wrong.”

“Perhaps not, but I do not think the avenue is through the duchess.”

“Please, keep watching her.”

Mary sighed. “I’m not comfortable spying on my friends. I know you grew up in a country of mad political conspiracies, but I had a fairly normal childhood in a Scottish castle. That is, if you consider being the only girl among a pack of half-crazed Highland men normal. I only had to deal with feuds within my own family, and those weren’t secret.” She broke off under Valentin’s unnerving stare. “What is it?”

“Nothing,” he said in a low voice. “I like to watch your lips when you speak.”

FROM ”My Lady Below Stairs” by Emily Bryan

A scene in which Ian tries to convince Jane not to continue posing as her well-born half-sister Sybil.

Gripping the carriage rail, Ian Michael worked his way along the bouncing rig to the right side door, finding what toeholds he might, swinging by his arms alone when he couldn’t locate a resting place for his feet. Then just as they neared a corner, he pulled open the door and swung his body into the moving carriage, feet first.

Jane yelped, but he covered her mouth with his hand.

“Easy, girl. It’s only me,” he said with the same soothing tone he’d use for a spooked mare. “If ye cry out, Tom will stop the carriage and ‘Lady Sybil’ will be found in a compromising position with a mere stable hand.”

Her eyes widened in the soft carriage lamplight and then she bit his finger as hard as she could.

“Ow!”

She leaned forward and clamped her palm over his mouth. “Guess you don’t like being surprised either.” Jane withdrew her hand and crossed her arms. “Now, what are you doing here, Ian?”

“Trying to talk sense into ye while there’s still time to stop this foolishness.”

Her mouth set into a firm line. “You know I won’t listen.”

“Then I won’t talk.”

He pulled her across the narrow space onto his lap. She smelled of rose petals and her cheek was as soft as one beneath his palm.

Her eyes were enormous in the dim coach. “Ian, I—”

“Ye don’t need to talk either, love.”

FROM ”Traditions” by Alissa Johnson

A scene in which William and Patience discuss who will be responsible for taking William’s nephew and namesake, Will, to see his nanny.

William looked to Will. “Do you want me to take you?”

The boy shook his head.

“It appears I cannot.” He smiled at Patience. “He wants you.”

“Oh . . . er . . .”

“Is something the matter?”

“No. Yes. I’m not certain. I . . .” She eyed Will a little nervously. “I am fond of children, but to be honest,” she leaned toward William and whispered, “I’ve very little experience with them. I’ve never been responsible for one.”

“I see.” Was he going to have to take Will himself, after all? He sincerely hoped not.

“I imagine I’ve not much more experience than you.” He leaned toward her and whispered, “I avoid them whenever possible.”

“Will is your nephew.”

“Yes, but you’re a woman. Women are born with the instinct to . . .” He waved his hand about, searching for the right word. “To nurture. Or what have you.”

She rolled her eyes, but knelt down and smiled at Will.

“You are adorable . . . even though you’re messy.” Will grinned at her.

William grinned wider. “There you go.” He gave her a gentle but bolstering pat on the back. “Just scoop him up and take him down the hall.”

Patience straightened and took a step forward. Then a step back. “What if I should drop him?”

William shook his head. “You’ll not drop him. A firm grip is part of the womanly instinct.”

She sent him a withering look. “And I suppose men are born with a natural urge to toss them about like sacks of flour?”

“We’re a stupid lot.”

She laughed and offered Will her hand. “We’ll walk, if it’s all the same to you, Will.”

A Personal Message from the Authors

Jennifer Ashley: I want to thank my readers for being so fantastic. I really have the best readers! When I meet them in person, they’re smart, nice, fun, and just…nice! I hope readers of my Nvengaria series enjoy Mary and Valentin’s story, and if readers haven’t tried that series, I hope you like the story too!

Emily Bryan: I’ve been so blessed by the love and support I’ve received from my readers.When I was going through the cancer, you can’t imagine how much it meant to me to receive so many emails, notes of encouragement and promises of prayers. Thank you with all my heart! I know it’s early yet, but I’d love to wish my readers a very Merry Christmas (or Happy Hanukkah!). May you all receive the gift of love!

Alissa Johnson: Thanks so much for joining us! Working with Jennifer Ashley and Emily Bryan has been an absolute pleasure for me, and I hope you’re having just as much fun.

Thanks so much for joining us and a great big thank you to Jennifer Ashley, Emily Bryan and Alissa Johnson for being our guests today! You ladies are welcome at Book Reviews By Bobbie, any time! :)

Don’t forget to leave a comment, for your chance to win 1 of 3 books: 2 backlist titles from Emily Bryan or Alissa Johnson & 1 copy of A Christmas Ball!

Sunday Sit-Down – Meme

Posted on October 4, 2009 by Bobbie Crawford-McCoy

Sunday Sit-Down

This week has been delightfully busy even though I didn’t get any reviews posted up. On Monday this week, we were planning to have 3 guest Authors & a Book Giveaway; there was a mix-up so the Guest post has been re-scheduled for Monday, October 5th, 2009 – that’s tomorrow! On Thursday I posted about some New TBR Review Copy Arrivals; they all look really great. On Friday I posted our 2nd weekly meme, Friday’s Find; it highlighted the National Geographic website and basically the whole National Geographic “movement”. Also on Friday, I posted about our Blogoversary Celebration & Enormous Book Giveaway…and it began one day early!! I couldn’t wait any longer to get it started; I was and I still am SO excited about reaching this milestone and about being able to offer such an enormous giveaway (50 Books) to my wonderful followers; I hope that you all have fun entering! On Saturday I announced the winners of the Simon’s Cat Book Giveaway; 2 winners have emailed me their info. already; I’m still waiting for Lisa, Auriette and Renee to contact me…they still have 6 days to do so.

Here at home it was a bit of a cook-off; I made a HUGE pot of homemade chili and I made 4 homemade cherry cheese pies…they are cherry cheese cakes in pie pans, just to clarify. :) Sadly, these delicious treats are all gone now; DH took a pie into work and we shared some chili with our neighbours and DH shared some at work as well. Surprise, surprise; DH’s co-workers want MORE! :)
The puppy is getting a little better with the “chewing thing”…or we’re getting better at watching him…not sure which. I’m adding a picture of him (below) so you can see our little SPOT.
The temperature has been dropping lately; it was -2 Degrees Celsius one morning this week and we’ve had to turn the heat on a few times.
This week; who knows what will get done. ;) If I plan things, they never seem to go the way I want so I think I’ll wing it!

What have you been up to this week?

Book Giveaway WINNERS!!

Posted on October 3, 2009 by Bobbie Crawford-McCoy

The 5 winners of 1 copy of Simon’s Cat Book Giveaway are:

Lisa A.(#10) – lahlstedt @ gmail . com

Auriette(#48) – dahlia @ tmlindsey . com

Wanda(#2) – wandanamgreb @ gmail . com

Heather Diotte(#16) – roxxyroller @ hotmail . com

Renee Taylor(#33) – reneetaylor @ sympatico . ca

Congratulations to the winners! :)

WINNERS : To claim your book, please send me an email with your full name & mailing address (NO P.O. Boxes please), to bookreviewsbybobbie(@)gmail(.)com within 7 days. Thanks!

1st Blogoversary Celebration & Enormous Book Giveaway (IS CLOSED!)

Posted on October 2, 2009 by Bobbie Crawford-McCoy

146

Love You To Death by Shannon K. Butcher, Permission Slips by Sherri Shepherd and Laurie Kilmartin, Thirsty by Amy Nappa, NINE DRAGONS by Michael Connelly, The Daring Twin by Donna Fletcher, The Nine Lessons by Kevin A. Milne, MIRACLE GIRLS #3: A LITTLE HELP FROM MY FRIENDS by Anne Dayton and May Vanderbilt, Shooting an Albatross by Steve Lundin, Silverstein & Me by Marvin Gold, Distracting the Duchess by Emily Bryan

Chosen by Desire by Kate Perry, The Sister Pact by Cami Checketts, ANGELS by Chuck Fischer, CHEATING DEATH by Sanjay Gupta, M.D., TRUE BLUE by David Baldacci, WHAT THE DOG SAW by Malcom Gladwell, LOCKED IN by Marcia Muller, Return of the Rogue by Donna Fletcher, Black Jack by Jean Holloway, Insufficient Mating Material by Rowena Cherry.

Cut Short by Leigh Russell, FIERCE STYLE by Christian Siriano, Scarecrow Finds a Friend by Blume Rifkin, Scandalous by Night by Barbara Pierce, Diary of Murder by Jean Henry Mead, The Paper Bag Christmas by Kevin A. Milne, The Rasner Effect by Mark Rosendorf, Call Me Okaasan: Adventures in Multicultural Mothering by Suzanne Kamata, The White Queen by Philippa Gregory, Miss O’Dell by Chris O’Dell

Mrs. O byMary Tomer, HOW TO ROAST A LAMB by Michael Psilakis, ANSEL ADAMS IN COLOR by Ansel Adams, Andrea Stillman and John P. Schaefer, A Village Shattered by Jean Henry Mead, The Wedding Spell by Donna Fletcher, Ace of Hearts by Jean Holloway, Shades of Gray: A Novel of the Civil War in Virginia by Jessica James, East of the Sun by Julia Gregson, NEW BLOOD by Gail Dayton, Maidensong by Diana Groe

Escape: a Wyoming Historical Novel by Jean Henry Mead, A HIGHLANDER’S TEMPTATION by Sue-Ellen Welfonder, NORMAN ROCKWELL by Ron Schick, Enchanting the Beast by Kathryne Kennedy, TELL ME SOMETHING TRUE by Leila Cobo, Frankenstein by Mary Wollstonecraft Shelley, Oscar Wilde and the Dead Man’s Smile by Gyles Brandreth, The Day the Falls Stood Still by Cathy Marie Buchanan, Suddenly by Bonnie Burnard, Let the Great World Spin by Colum McCann

CONGRATS TO:

Stacie (#64) won book bundle # 4

Melissa D (#124) won book bundle #2

Jill (#8) won book bundle # 3

Sharon A (#87) won book bundle # 1

Piroska (#46) won book bundle # 5

5 lucky commenters will each WIN

a 10-Book Bundle !!!!

Please click on the (more…) link below, to find out how to enter!

Continue reading →

Friday’s Find – Meme

Posted on October 2, 2009 by Bobbie Crawford-McCoy

Friday's Find Book Reviews By Bobbie

This Friday ’s Find is a:

WEBSITE

National Geographic.com

I have been a fan of National Geographic since before I could read. As a child, I can’t count the number of times that I looked through old or new copies of the National Geographic; sometimes I found them in a Doctor’s waiting room, sometimes I would find copies at a yard sale that I just had to buy with my meager savings. The untold treasures inside always amazed me. I grew up in a rather money-scarce environment that didn’t allow for a lot of travelling or exploring to broaden my horizons, so all of the National Geographic magazines that I could get my hands on were worth their weight in gold! They took me to exotic places in far away lands and taught me about so many different peoples, races, religion and cultures…it made the world so accessable to me in my tiny world. I owe thanks to National Geographic for expanding my horizons and for helping me to explore fabulous, unknown places, right in my own backyard.

We usually have a subscription to at least one of the magazines at any given time. Our DS has the National Geographic Kids magazine and loves it! We also love buying the beautiful books and atlases from National Geographic…we just can’t get enough of it!!!

♦ Book Reviews By Bobbie ♦

Monthly Archives: October 2009

Book Review – Chosen by Desire (ARC)

Book Review – Highland Rebel (ARC)

Book Review – Earth to Table

“Blogger payola getting a pass in Canada”

Book Giveaway WINNERS!!

Lisa A.(#10) – lahlstedt @ gmail . com

Auriette(#48) – dahlia @ tmlindsey . com

Wanda(#2) – wandanamgreb @ gmail . com

Heather Diotte(#16) – roxxyroller @ hotmail . com

Renee Taylor(#33) – reneetaylor @ sympatico . ca

Congratulations to the winners! :)

Follow “♦ Book Reviews By Bobbie ♦”

This Friday’s Find is a VIRUS:

Are YOU going to get vaccinated?

What have you been up to this week?

This Friday’s Find is a MOVIE:

What have you been up to this week?

This Friday’s Find is a BOOK:

What have you been up to this week?

Wishing you & your family a very safe, happy and warm Thanksgiving!

This Friday’s Find is a BOOK:

Question and Answer (Q&A) with:

ALL-NEW Excerpts from A Christmas Ball

A Personal Message from the Authors

What have you been up to this week?

Lisa A.(#10) – lahlstedt @ gmail . com

Auriette(#48) – dahlia @ tmlindsey . com

Wanda(#2) – wandanamgreb @ gmail . com

Heather Diotte(#16) – roxxyroller @ hotmail . com

Renee Taylor(#33) – reneetaylor @ sympatico . ca

Congratulations to the winners! :)

5 lucky commenters will each WIN

a 10-Book Bundle !!!!

This Friday’s Find is a:

So…What did you find today?

Follow “♦ Book Reviews By Bobbie ♦”

This Friday ’s Find is a VIRUS:

This Friday ’s Find is a MOVIE:

This Friday ’s Find is a BOOK:

This Friday ’s Find is a BOOK:

This Friday ’s Find is a: