1 to 13 of 13
Review Date: 3/6/2008
Michael âFujiâ Powers is the last of the Powers brothers to have a chance to play for the Withamsville-Tobasco Cardinals C Ball team. He's always dreamed of playing his championship game at Great American Ball Park and hitting a home run there.
But before he has the chance to hit a historic home run, he has some obstacles to overcome. First he has to make the team. And once he does, he has to deal with being teased as one of the two rookies. Fitting in isn't as easy as he thinks, and he needs to learn how to stand up for himself to prove his worth to one of the team's best players.
Fuji is growing up quickly, and he's suddenly aware of the feelings he has for Cathy, who has always been a tomboy he's played baseball with. Cathy shows interest in someone else, and Fuji realizes he wants her to be something more than a friend.
Mr. Powers always instilled a strong desire in his sons to succeed, but sometimes Fuji feels pressure to be perfect for his difficult-to-please father. But Fuji learns a lot about his father's life during the course of this book, which ultimately brings the two closer together.
Fuji is a typical twelve-year old boy, playing baseball, getting into mischief with his friends, learning about family values and experiencing his first crush on a girl. He's a likable boy that kids will relate to, and will want to see succeed. And his crowning moment of glory will leave the reader feeling proud to have spent time with him.
Reviewed by Alice Berger, Bergers Book Reviews
http://bergersbookreviews.blogspot.com
But before he has the chance to hit a historic home run, he has some obstacles to overcome. First he has to make the team. And once he does, he has to deal with being teased as one of the two rookies. Fitting in isn't as easy as he thinks, and he needs to learn how to stand up for himself to prove his worth to one of the team's best players.
Fuji is growing up quickly, and he's suddenly aware of the feelings he has for Cathy, who has always been a tomboy he's played baseball with. Cathy shows interest in someone else, and Fuji realizes he wants her to be something more than a friend.
Mr. Powers always instilled a strong desire in his sons to succeed, but sometimes Fuji feels pressure to be perfect for his difficult-to-please father. But Fuji learns a lot about his father's life during the course of this book, which ultimately brings the two closer together.
Fuji is a typical twelve-year old boy, playing baseball, getting into mischief with his friends, learning about family values and experiencing his first crush on a girl. He's a likable boy that kids will relate to, and will want to see succeed. And his crowning moment of glory will leave the reader feeling proud to have spent time with him.
Reviewed by Alice Berger, Bergers Book Reviews
http://bergersbookreviews.blogspot.com
Review Date: 4/16/2008
Widow Melodye Carter has turned her clothing boutique into a success while raising her rambunctious twins by herself. Deeply hurt by her late husband, she has sworn off men and marriage. Believing that her voluptuous curves make her unattractive, she's convinced she'll be alone for the rest of her life.
Detective Jim Ryman remembers the plus-size beauty from his youth, and he can't help the fires of attraction that burn through him when he sees her again. Melodye's husband's death has now been declared murder, and Jim has been assigned to investigate it, bringing them into close contact. But he is also dealing with demons from his past, and a failed marriage that ended in his wife's accidental death.
Though they want to remain just friends, passion consumes them as they become closer than they planned. And their match-making grandparents scheme to see them happily married. But Melodye first needs to stand up to her mother's and sister's unkind comments about her weight, and both women's determination to keep her down.
Jim is a knight in shining armor for his lady, as he supports Melodye and encourages her to blossom in her own light. And Melodye allows Jim to share his deepest feelings and process the grief he still feels about his late wife. This heartwarming story reveals their growth, both as individuals and as a couple, which will surely lead them to a lifetime of happiness together.
Reviewer: Alice Berger, Bergers Book Reviews
http://bergersbookreviews.blogspot.com/
Detective Jim Ryman remembers the plus-size beauty from his youth, and he can't help the fires of attraction that burn through him when he sees her again. Melodye's husband's death has now been declared murder, and Jim has been assigned to investigate it, bringing them into close contact. But he is also dealing with demons from his past, and a failed marriage that ended in his wife's accidental death.
Though they want to remain just friends, passion consumes them as they become closer than they planned. And their match-making grandparents scheme to see them happily married. But Melodye first needs to stand up to her mother's and sister's unkind comments about her weight, and both women's determination to keep her down.
Jim is a knight in shining armor for his lady, as he supports Melodye and encourages her to blossom in her own light. And Melodye allows Jim to share his deepest feelings and process the grief he still feels about his late wife. This heartwarming story reveals their growth, both as individuals and as a couple, which will surely lead them to a lifetime of happiness together.
Reviewer: Alice Berger, Bergers Book Reviews
http://bergersbookreviews.blogspot.com/
Review Date: 5/16/2008
Dr. Veronica Donavan (Roni) has spent the last two years hunting down a serial killer she believes took the life of her little sister, Emily. When Scotland Yard closes the case, she moves to Denver where she believes he has resumed his killing spree.
As the case unfolds, more information comes to light, revealing that Roni holds the key to the whole investigation â" and that she may be the killer's intended target.
Agent Dean Colby is assigned to protect her, and he moves into her apartment and into her bed. Although neither is looking for love, they can't deny the passion that blazes between them, and discover that love may have found them.
Just when you think the case has been solved, the author throws a curveball. The climax will leave you stunned, hoping that Roni can outsmart the killer and find true love after all.
Reviewer: Alice Berger
Bergers Book Reviews
http://bergersbookreviews.blogspot.com
As the case unfolds, more information comes to light, revealing that Roni holds the key to the whole investigation â" and that she may be the killer's intended target.
Agent Dean Colby is assigned to protect her, and he moves into her apartment and into her bed. Although neither is looking for love, they can't deny the passion that blazes between them, and discover that love may have found them.
Just when you think the case has been solved, the author throws a curveball. The climax will leave you stunned, hoping that Roni can outsmart the killer and find true love after all.
Reviewer: Alice Berger
Bergers Book Reviews
http://bergersbookreviews.blogspot.com
Review Date: 5/16/2008
Stephen B. McSwain makes a bold statement â" that giving will lead to the life you've always wanted. Although many of us have been raised with the idea that we should be generous, most of us aren't giving nearly as much as we could. This book explores the giving myths many of us believe. Basing his opinions on years of working in church fundraising, McSwain explains why these myths persist, and why they're false beliefs.
Quoting several passages from the Bible, he shows how churches have misinterpreted the words of Jesus and the prophets in order to coerce their congregations into giving more. When guilt tactics fail, the churches turn to encouraging members to become involved to motivate them to generosity. Other topics include the standard of tithing, and equal and fair share giving. And some folks believe they simply can't afford to give.
But once McSwain debunks all of these myths, he reassures us that if we can look past the myths and give generously â" to our church or spiritual center, and also to our favorite charities â" God will grant us the life we've always wanted. While we may not be showered with material things, we will be given all we need, plus the peace of mind in knowing that we will always be provided for. And isn't that all we really need, anyway?
Reviewer: Alice Berger
Bergers Book Reviews
http://bergersbookreviews.blogspot.com
Quoting several passages from the Bible, he shows how churches have misinterpreted the words of Jesus and the prophets in order to coerce their congregations into giving more. When guilt tactics fail, the churches turn to encouraging members to become involved to motivate them to generosity. Other topics include the standard of tithing, and equal and fair share giving. And some folks believe they simply can't afford to give.
But once McSwain debunks all of these myths, he reassures us that if we can look past the myths and give generously â" to our church or spiritual center, and also to our favorite charities â" God will grant us the life we've always wanted. While we may not be showered with material things, we will be given all we need, plus the peace of mind in knowing that we will always be provided for. And isn't that all we really need, anyway?
Reviewer: Alice Berger
Bergers Book Reviews
http://bergersbookreviews.blogspot.com
Review Date: 6/22/2013
When Kate finds herself pregnant, her immediate thought is, How can that be? Ive had no relations with a man. Confirmation from the angel, Gabriel, lets her know shes carrying Gods son the second son. Based on Mark 8:38, which states that the Son of Man will come in the glory of his Father with the holy angels, this is interpreted to mean that her son, Ethan, is the second son of God.
Its a lot harder to announce yourself as the son of God in todays technologically advanced society, especially when there are those who want to see you perish quickly. Caught in the crossfire between the Congregation a modern version of the Inquisition by the Catholic Church, and Conversatio a group eagerly awaiting the second son, Ethan is forced to rely on his great-grandfather, Papa Jim, for protection. But Papa Jim is not the man he pretends to be, and he is more concerned about himself than Ethan.
As a devout Catholic, I was really disappointed with this book. First, I dont interpret this Bible verse in the way the author did. But more importantly, I felt that Burton had the opportunity to reinforce and uphold traditional Christian values through Ethan, but instead chose to lean toward a much more modern and liberal interpretation of morality. And Kate rejected, for all of humanity, the ultimate gift Jesus gave us, in offering Himself as a sacrifice for our sins. Godsent felt more like the authors attempt to gloss over our sins, and offer us an easier path to heaven.
Its a lot harder to announce yourself as the son of God in todays technologically advanced society, especially when there are those who want to see you perish quickly. Caught in the crossfire between the Congregation a modern version of the Inquisition by the Catholic Church, and Conversatio a group eagerly awaiting the second son, Ethan is forced to rely on his great-grandfather, Papa Jim, for protection. But Papa Jim is not the man he pretends to be, and he is more concerned about himself than Ethan.
As a devout Catholic, I was really disappointed with this book. First, I dont interpret this Bible verse in the way the author did. But more importantly, I felt that Burton had the opportunity to reinforce and uphold traditional Christian values through Ethan, but instead chose to lean toward a much more modern and liberal interpretation of morality. And Kate rejected, for all of humanity, the ultimate gift Jesus gave us, in offering Himself as a sacrifice for our sins. Godsent felt more like the authors attempt to gloss over our sins, and offer us an easier path to heaven.
Lead Like a Pirate! Leadership Secrets of the Pirates of St. Croix
Author:
Book Type: Perfect Paperback
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Author:
Book Type: Perfect Paperback
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Review Date: 3/14/2008
Ahoy, mates! Lead Like a Pirate is about to take you on a team building pirate adventure. Comparing a pirate ship to a business unit, five key business areas are covered. These are: Captain, Crew, Mission, Strategy, and Treasure.
A brief summary of a pirate ship's take on these key areas is presented in a fun and light-hearted way. Then the group is asked to read three possible scenarios to determine the best fit for each area. A scoring system determines who's next in line to be promoted to Captain.
The team leader is encouraged to make this exercise fun by having employees dress in character and role-play. Pirate-themed movies can also be viewed and discussed, to see how each of the key elements appears in the movie.
Although there's not much new material presented here, this approach is novel and interesting enough to help participants see these concepts in a different way. If you work for an organization that welcomes unique team building ideas, this book would provide a fun learning experience.
Reviewer: Alice Berger, Bergers Book Reviews
http://bergersbookreviews.blogspot.com
A brief summary of a pirate ship's take on these key areas is presented in a fun and light-hearted way. Then the group is asked to read three possible scenarios to determine the best fit for each area. A scoring system determines who's next in line to be promoted to Captain.
The team leader is encouraged to make this exercise fun by having employees dress in character and role-play. Pirate-themed movies can also be viewed and discussed, to see how each of the key elements appears in the movie.
Although there's not much new material presented here, this approach is novel and interesting enough to help participants see these concepts in a different way. If you work for an organization that welcomes unique team building ideas, this book would provide a fun learning experience.
Reviewer: Alice Berger, Bergers Book Reviews
http://bergersbookreviews.blogspot.com
Review Date: 3/6/2008
Theda Coles and Hunter "Brave Wolf" Davis were once young and madly in love, until circumstances ripped them apart. Now Hunter has returned to Theda's life and threatens to turn it upside down.
Hunter has a son with his ex-wife Helena, who also follows him to Crystal Lake. Determined to get him back, she'll stop at nothing in trying to ruin Theda's life. Theda has always had a dream of becoming a high school principal, and Helena's actions are threatening that dream.
Theda is still grieving the loss of her husband and Hunter's son. She has to make a choice - does she allow herself to trust this man she once loved deeply not to hurt her, or does she turn him away forever? And will he allow Helena to continue to come between them, threatening everything Theda's always wanted?
Francine Craft has created a beautiful romance between two very real people facing some of life's most difficult challenges. Throughout their struggles, they are loving and intimate, while also feeling all their feelings around their problems, and being honest with each other. The decisions they must make aren't easy ones, and the reader can empathize with their situation while cheering them on to make the right one. This is a heartwarming story, and I enjoyed reading it.
Reviewer: Alice Berger, Bergers Book Reviews
http://bergersbookreviews.blogspot.com
Hunter has a son with his ex-wife Helena, who also follows him to Crystal Lake. Determined to get him back, she'll stop at nothing in trying to ruin Theda's life. Theda has always had a dream of becoming a high school principal, and Helena's actions are threatening that dream.
Theda is still grieving the loss of her husband and Hunter's son. She has to make a choice - does she allow herself to trust this man she once loved deeply not to hurt her, or does she turn him away forever? And will he allow Helena to continue to come between them, threatening everything Theda's always wanted?
Francine Craft has created a beautiful romance between two very real people facing some of life's most difficult challenges. Throughout their struggles, they are loving and intimate, while also feeling all their feelings around their problems, and being honest with each other. The decisions they must make aren't easy ones, and the reader can empathize with their situation while cheering them on to make the right one. This is a heartwarming story, and I enjoyed reading it.
Reviewer: Alice Berger, Bergers Book Reviews
http://bergersbookreviews.blogspot.com
Review Date: 3/6/2008
Helpful Score: 1
Lou van Helden is living his life according to the American dream. He has a good-paying job, a nice home, and he's searching for a beautiful wife to make it all complete. To his way of thinking, money can buy everything, and he wants as many of the good things as he can afford.
Then one day, while he's out taking a jog, he comes to a mysterious house in the woods and meets the Novemvirat, a group who tell him that he's a Knight of the First Order and he has an important mission in life. Lou is intrigued by their message, and is determined to find out what he needs to do to fulfill that mission.
His journey takes him to Brazil, where he visits with his Uncle Ray, a Catholic priest, who shares his experiences in living a simple and spiritual life. Then when Lou returns to the United States, he studies meditation with a Buddhist Lama. He also meets a wonderful woman who shares his vision of living a more spiritual life.
Lou's journey is not unlike the one many of us take at some point in our lives. We grow tired of material things, and instinctively know there has to be something more â" something that really matters.
As Lou makes his discoveries about what's important to him, he inspires us to also search for and find that for ourselves. If we look within and learn to connect with our own spirituality, we can also find a path that brings us true joy.
Reviewer: Alice Berger, Bergers Book Reviews
http://bergersbookreviews.blogspot.com
Then one day, while he's out taking a jog, he comes to a mysterious house in the woods and meets the Novemvirat, a group who tell him that he's a Knight of the First Order and he has an important mission in life. Lou is intrigued by their message, and is determined to find out what he needs to do to fulfill that mission.
His journey takes him to Brazil, where he visits with his Uncle Ray, a Catholic priest, who shares his experiences in living a simple and spiritual life. Then when Lou returns to the United States, he studies meditation with a Buddhist Lama. He also meets a wonderful woman who shares his vision of living a more spiritual life.
Lou's journey is not unlike the one many of us take at some point in our lives. We grow tired of material things, and instinctively know there has to be something more â" something that really matters.
As Lou makes his discoveries about what's important to him, he inspires us to also search for and find that for ourselves. If we look within and learn to connect with our own spirituality, we can also find a path that brings us true joy.
Reviewer: Alice Berger, Bergers Book Reviews
http://bergersbookreviews.blogspot.com
Saddle Up Your Own White Horse: 5 Principles Every Woman Needs to Know
Author:
Book Type: Hardcover
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Author:
Book Type: Hardcover
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Review Date: 9/8/2008
Do you have your sights on that corner office? Plan to start your own business soon? But you have doubts because you're a woman, and you feel men have a better chance than you do? Saundra Pelletier believes in you, and she wants to show you how to succeed in Saddle Up Your Own White Horse.
This book presents five principles every woman needs to know. First, deliberate creators make their dreams happen. Don't be a victim or a flatliner - learn how to create your own best outcomes. Second, women possess two unique gifts - multitasking and intuition. Learn how to use both to your own advantage. Third, women must lead in their relationships with men - but don't ever tell them that! Fourth, no woman is an island. You'll need to build your own cavalry of support. And fifth, women must master the three C's - confidence, credit, and comfort with success.
Finally, once you've learned these five important principles, the author reminds us to never confuse motion with action. Sometimes being busy hides the fact we're not really moving in the direction of our biggest goals.
While the author clearly got her message across to women who are determined to climb the corporate ladder, she left out one segment of the female population. Some women feel most successful in having a happy family life and raising children. It would have been nice to see some examples of successful moms using these principles, along with entrepreneurs and CEOs.
Saundra Pelletier was fortunate to have a mother who never let her settle for mediocrity, and always told her she could do what she set her heart on. If you have grand dreams and goals, but you haven't quite figured out how to create them in your life, this book will be the pep talk you need to get you started. Well-written and inspiring, Saddle Up Your Own White Horse will motivate you to take charge of your own life.
Reviewer: Alice Berger, Bergers Book Reviews
http://bergersbookreviews.blogspot.com
This book presents five principles every woman needs to know. First, deliberate creators make their dreams happen. Don't be a victim or a flatliner - learn how to create your own best outcomes. Second, women possess two unique gifts - multitasking and intuition. Learn how to use both to your own advantage. Third, women must lead in their relationships with men - but don't ever tell them that! Fourth, no woman is an island. You'll need to build your own cavalry of support. And fifth, women must master the three C's - confidence, credit, and comfort with success.
Finally, once you've learned these five important principles, the author reminds us to never confuse motion with action. Sometimes being busy hides the fact we're not really moving in the direction of our biggest goals.
While the author clearly got her message across to women who are determined to climb the corporate ladder, she left out one segment of the female population. Some women feel most successful in having a happy family life and raising children. It would have been nice to see some examples of successful moms using these principles, along with entrepreneurs and CEOs.
Saundra Pelletier was fortunate to have a mother who never let her settle for mediocrity, and always told her she could do what she set her heart on. If you have grand dreams and goals, but you haven't quite figured out how to create them in your life, this book will be the pep talk you need to get you started. Well-written and inspiring, Saddle Up Your Own White Horse will motivate you to take charge of your own life.
Reviewer: Alice Berger, Bergers Book Reviews
http://bergersbookreviews.blogspot.com
Review Date: 9/9/2008
I couldn't get through the author's ponderous roundabout logic. Very wordy with little discernible content.
Review Date: 6/16/2012
The first review is not about this book. This is a suspenseful romance. Mary Stewart is my all-time favorite author, and her books are well-written and suspenseful.
Review Date: 9/10/2008
Helpful Score: 1
When big business deals are made, the usual players are men. Webs of Power explores the lives of three women affected when a business tycoon threatens to take ownership of a department store giant.
Paige Toddman has it all. Married to Consolidateds West Coast Division CEO, she has wealth, prestige and time to explore her own interests. Until one day an unexpected surprise comes between her and her husband, threatening to end their marriage once and for all.
Ashleigh McDowell is engaged to the President, and they are about to embark on their new life together when the attempted takeover begins. Her father-figure is still a powerful player in the department store enterprise, and when his daughter and her husband begin to take determined steps against him, Ashleigh needs to protect him.
Viviana DeMornay craves the power that only comes from being associated with the best, and that means selling her soul to the devil the very man who plans to take over the enterprise that currently employs her. How much of herself is she willing to give up to marry him?
These three fascinating women live through the emotional roller coaster of this takeover, supportive of their men, but caught up in their own needs and desires, as well. As the business deal winds to a close, will they find the happiness they seek?
Darlene Quinn has woven a captivating story that pulls you in, as the web closes in on Consolidated. Short, quick chapters keep the reader turning the page, wanting to see what happens next in these intricate negotiations. Suspenseful and well-written, Webs of Power is a compelling and enjoyable read.
Reviewer: Alice Berger, Bergers Book Reviews
http://bergersbookreviews.blogspot.com
Paige Toddman has it all. Married to Consolidateds West Coast Division CEO, she has wealth, prestige and time to explore her own interests. Until one day an unexpected surprise comes between her and her husband, threatening to end their marriage once and for all.
Ashleigh McDowell is engaged to the President, and they are about to embark on their new life together when the attempted takeover begins. Her father-figure is still a powerful player in the department store enterprise, and when his daughter and her husband begin to take determined steps against him, Ashleigh needs to protect him.
Viviana DeMornay craves the power that only comes from being associated with the best, and that means selling her soul to the devil the very man who plans to take over the enterprise that currently employs her. How much of herself is she willing to give up to marry him?
These three fascinating women live through the emotional roller coaster of this takeover, supportive of their men, but caught up in their own needs and desires, as well. As the business deal winds to a close, will they find the happiness they seek?
Darlene Quinn has woven a captivating story that pulls you in, as the web closes in on Consolidated. Short, quick chapters keep the reader turning the page, wanting to see what happens next in these intricate negotiations. Suspenseful and well-written, Webs of Power is a compelling and enjoyable read.
Reviewer: Alice Berger, Bergers Book Reviews
http://bergersbookreviews.blogspot.com
Review Date: 6/12/2008
Some men just don't know when to give up. Victoria Bennett wants nothing to do with marriage, but A.J. Baptiste is in love and he's determined to woo her.
After a suspicious accident that causes A.J. injury, Victoria moves into his home to care for him as he recovers. But she has no idea how living in such close proximity will affect her, especially when he starts to become a dear friend.
Victoria has good reason to avoid men after being hurt deeply by her ex-husband, and A.J. is sensitive to her pain while encouraging her to open up to him. Rather than taking advantage of her vulnerability, he insists she be ready to give him her heart before claiming her body.
This romance blossoms beautifully between two people who want to know each other intimately as both friends and lovers, and the suspense around the accident adds even more tension to the story. Both A.J. and Victoria are caring people, striving for good in the world, and the reader will cheer for their happiness. When a Man Loves a Woman is a truly enjoyable read.
Reviewer: Alice Berger, Bergers Book Reviews
http://bergersbookreviews.blogspot.com
After a suspicious accident that causes A.J. injury, Victoria moves into his home to care for him as he recovers. But she has no idea how living in such close proximity will affect her, especially when he starts to become a dear friend.
Victoria has good reason to avoid men after being hurt deeply by her ex-husband, and A.J. is sensitive to her pain while encouraging her to open up to him. Rather than taking advantage of her vulnerability, he insists she be ready to give him her heart before claiming her body.
This romance blossoms beautifully between two people who want to know each other intimately as both friends and lovers, and the suspense around the accident adds even more tension to the story. Both A.J. and Victoria are caring people, striving for good in the world, and the reader will cheer for their happiness. When a Man Loves a Woman is a truly enjoyable read.
Reviewer: Alice Berger, Bergers Book Reviews
http://bergersbookreviews.blogspot.com
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