Thursday Night Club

~ I received no compensation and opinions are 100% my own or my family. ~

Synopsis (from Amazon): Five college friends, three men and two women, have been getting together every Thursday night to share humble meals and an abundance of laughter. But when tragedy takes one of them, leaving the others to question the fairness of life, the Thursday Night Club decides to embark on a contest in the memory of the generous spirit of their fallen brother. The objective of the contest is simple: whoever performs the kindest deed by Christmas night wins the pot – four quarters. And there are only two conditions: the benevolent deed must be anonymous, and it cannot cost a single penny to pull off.

As the four friends undertake the contest, the healing begins and they become inspired beyond their expectations. There might be a winner in this competition, but it is very clear there will be no losers.

A story of Christmas spirit that will strike a chord in your heart any time of year, The Thursday Night Club will make you look at the holiday season in new ways.

One (or more) Sentence Summary: What a great story and beautifully written.  A positive novel is so many ways.  A refreshing story about four college students that do amazing things in the memory of their friend who was tragically taken from them.  

Favorite Character(s):  All of them are my favorite characters.  I really can't just pick one as they are so special in their own way and do so much good.

Fast read/slow read:  Very fast.

Cover:  So calming and perfect.

Would I Read Other Books by the Author: Absolutely.  Steven Manchester reminds me of a Richard Paul Evans - feel good books, with positive messages, and leaves you wanting more.

Steven Manchester is the author of the #1 bestsellers Twelve Months and The Rockin’ Chair and the novelsGoodnight, Brian and Pressed Pennies. His work has appeared on NBC’s Today Show, CBS’s The Early Show, CNN’s American Morning, and BET’s Nightly News. Recently, three of Manchester’s short stories were selected “101 Best” for the Chicken Soup for the Soul series.

Amazon |  Barnes & Noble 

Thursday Night Club

Gimme A Call

Synopsis: A new life is just a phone call away!

Devi's life isn't turning out at all like she wanted. She wasted the past three years going out with Bryan—cute, adorable, break-your-heart Bryan. Devi let her friendships fade, blew off studying, didn't join any clubs . . . and now that Bryan has broken up with her, she has nothing left.

Not even her stupid cell phone—she dropped it in the mall fountain. Now it only calls one number . . . hers. At age fourteen, three years ago!

Once Devi gets over the shock—and convinces her younger self that she isn't some wacko—she realizes that she's been given an awesome gift. She can tell herself all the right things to do . . . because she's already done all the wrong ones! Who better to take advice from than your future self?

Except . . .what if getting what you think you want changes everything?

Fans of Sarah Mlynowski's Magic in Manhattan series will love this hilarious new novel with a high-concept premise .

One (or more) Sentence Summary:  Loved it! What an interesting twist of a book.  Calling your younger self! This is the perfect time travel book for middle schoolers/young adults (oh heck - adults too). What I would tell me younger self…..Wow! 1. Be nice to everyone, it is okay to different. 2. Think with your head first, heart second. 3. Go back home!

Favorite Character(s):  Freshman Devi! She is too funny.  

Fast read/slow read:  Super fast! You won't want to put it down

Cover:  Love it, but found these other ones too!

 

Would I Read Other Books by the Author: OF COURSE - I love Sarah Mlynowski!

Sarah is the author of both the WHATEVER AFTER and MAGIC IN MANHATTAN series, as well as DON'T EVEN THINK ABOUT IT (March 2014), MILKRUN, FISHBOWL, AS SEEN ON TV, MONKEY BUSINESS, GIMME A CALL, TEN THINGS WE DID (AND PROBABLY SHOULDN'T HAVE) and HOW TO BE BAD (along with E.Lockhart and Lauren Myracle). Sarah's short stories and novellas include A LITTLE BIT BROKEN, A NICE FLING IS HARD TO FIND, KNOW IT ALL and CRUISIN'. Sarah also co-edited the bestselling chick-lit collections GIRLS' NIGHT IN and GIRLS' NIGHT OUT and co-wrote the first ever guide to writing chick lit, SEE JANE WRITE. 

Sarah's books have been translated into twenty-one languages and optioned to Hollywood. She was born in Montreal but now lives and writes in New York City.

Amazon |  Barnes & Noble | Book Depository

Gimme A Call

Love the One You're With by Emily Griffin

Synopsis: Ellen and Andy’s first year of marriage doesn’t just seem perfect, it is perfect. There is no question how deep their devotion is, and how naturally they bring out the best in each other. But one fateful afternoon, Ellen runs into Leo for the first time in eight years. Leo, the one who brought out the worst in her. Leo, the one who left her heartbroken with no explanation. Leo, the one she could never quite forget. When his reappearance ignites long-dormant emotions, Ellen begins to question whether the life she’s living is the one she’s meant to live. At once heartbreaking and funny, Love the One You’re With is a tale of lost loves and found fortunes—and will resonate with anyone who has ever wondered what if.

One (or more) Sentence Summary: While I was hoping Ellen would realize what she had with Andy ( I really liked him - he was the safe choice)….going through her "what ifs" made for a very entertaining story.  The twist/secret that Margot kept, I never saw coming.  

Favorite Character(s):  Ellen….with the road(s) she was traveling down is one that is faced by many (both women and men). 

Fast read/slow read:  I listened to Love the One You're With and enjoyed it.  

Cover:  Cute, LOVE the daisy!

What Others Are Saying:  "Giffin's talent lies in taking relatable situations and injecting with enough wit and suspense to make them feel fresh. The cat-and-mouse game between Ellen and Leo lights up these pages, their flirtation as dangerously addictive as a high-speed car chase. The ending isn't explosive, but what Ellen learns is quietly thrilling: Sometimes, you have to do whatever it taks to be with the one you love." --People

 

"Though it's easy to resent [Ellen] for taking [her] ideal life for granted, Giffin's vivid depictions of Ellen's steamy past with Leo help you commiserate with this realistically insecure woman." --Entertainment Weekly

Would I Read Other Books by the Author: Yes, I would!

Emily Giffin is a graduate of Wake Forest University and the University of Virginia School of Law. After practicing litigation at a Manhattan firm for several years, she moved to London to write full time. The author of six New York Times bestselling novels, Something Borrowed, Something Blue, Baby Proof, Love The One You're With, Heart of the Matter, and Where We Belong, she lives in Atlanta with her husband and three young children. Visit www.emilygiffin.com.

Amazon |  Barnes & Noble | Book Depository

Love the One You're With by Emily Griffin

The Carrie Diaries by Candance Bushnell

Synopsis (from Amazon):  The Carrie Diaries is the coming-of-age story of one of the most iconic characters of our generation.

Before Sex and the City, Carrie Bradshaw was a small-town girl who knew she wanted more. The Carrie Diaries opens up in Carrie's senior year of high school. She and her best friends -- Walt, Lali, Maggie, and the Mouse -- are inseparable, amid the sea of Jens, Jocks and Jets. She's ready for real life to start, but first she must navigate her senior year of high school. Then Sebastian Kydd comes into the picture, and a friend's betrayal makes her question everything.

With an unforgettable cast of characters, The Carrie Diaries is the story of how a regular girl learns to think for herself and evolves into a sharp, insightful writer. Readers will learn about her family background, how she found her writing voice, and the indelible impression her early friendships and relationships left on her. Through adventures both audacious and poignant, we'll see what brings Carrie to her beloved New York City, where her new life begins.

One (or more) Sentence Summary:  It is best to just start out saying….if you expect this to be Sex and The City, stop.  This is a great book for young adults pre-Sex and The City.  It is a cute story for teens.  Now that is said….I liked The Carrie Diaries. I understand that there are things in the book that don't jive with the TV show….okay.  I also liked the series (short-lived as it was), The Carrie Diaries.  It reminded me of 90120 in NY!

Favorite Character(s):  Carrie of course! 

Fast read/slow read:  Okay pace.  I didn't find it very fast.

Cover:  I like it!

  

Would I Read Other Books by the Author: Yes. I really enjoyed Lipstick Jungle (and the show that they canceled) and One Fifth Avenue.

Candace Bushnell is the critically acclaimed bestselling author of The Carrie Diaries, Sex and The City, Lipstick Jungle, One Fifth Avenue, 4 Blondes, and Trading Up, which have sold millions of copies. Sex and The City was the basis for the HBO hit show and films of the same name. Lipstick Jungle became a popular television show on NBC. Candace lives in New York City.

Amazon |  Barnes & Noble | Book Depository

The Carrie Diaries by Candance Bushnell

The Metabolism Solution + Giveaway and Author Interview

~ I received no compensation and opinions are 100% my own or my family. ~

Synopsis: Are you ready to lose 1 pound a day? Have you tried every weight loss plan under the sun? Don’t give up in frustration; The Metabolism Solution will make it faster and easier. What makes The Metabolism Solution different? It will teach you how to safely harness the power of your metabolism to lose weight and melt belly fat fast. You will learn the right way to work out to boost your metabolism with the best part being seeing results the first day after your first 30-minute workout. You will learn how to address your weight loss and fitness issues from the inside out, allowing you to focus on what created the weight gain in the beginning and how to correct those issues. Do you love delicious food? You'll adore Lisa Lynn’s 100 irresistibly delicious fat blasting recipes. The Metabolism Solution is the perfect roadmap for not only transforming your body, but changing your whole life.

One (or more) Sentence Summary: If you are looking for an easy to read, easy to follow health book, I would recommend The Metabolism Solution.  There are great reminders (healthy eating, exercise, etc), but there is more than just that.  I love the hits about how to start your day and ways you can add protein to your diet throughout the day.  I am a carb/sugar nut and don't eat enough protein.  The recipes included are easy to follow and the few I have tried are pretty tasty.  Looking for a way to kick up your metabolism, get health (or stay health), pick up The Metabolism Solution today.

CELEBRITY FITNESS AND NUTRITION EXPERT LISA LYNN has devoted nearly three decades of her career to personal training, specializing in metabolic weight loss and performance nutrition. Coupled with her vast experience in the field of fitness and nutrition she has earned four educational certificates from the International Sports and Sciences Association’s Professional Division including: Certified Fitness Trainer, Specialist in Performance Nutrition, Fitness Therapy and Elite Trainer.

Lynn’s years of research in metabolic boosting and performance nutrition resulted in the development of herLeaner Lifestyle DVD Series, specifically designed to promote healthy fat loss by boosting the most sluggish and stubborn metabolisms. She is best known for her 13 years as MARTHA STEWART’s personal trainer who has said, “Lisa is the only trainer that made a difference.” Lynn is also a regular go-to nutrition and fitness expert on THE DR. OZ SHOW appearing in two of his highest rated episodes. Major media outlets frequently call upon her for her expertise in fitness and nutrition. Lynn maintains a diverse portfolio of clientele including professional bodybuilders, models, actors, CEOs and real-world people throughout the country.

Lisa just released her award winning book The Metabolism Solution that has helped thousands of people lose weight and reach their fitness goals. Available on line at www.lynfit.com.



Connect with Lisa: Website  ~  Facebook  ~ Twitter  ~  Pinterest  ~  Youtube Channel

I am so excited to bring you an interview with author, Lisa Lynn:

SBN:  What​ makes your book​ different from​ all of the other diets books out there?

Lisa:  Most books focus on what to eat and forget all about the other factors that play a role in our metabolism. The Metabolism is very different from other books because it doesn't just tell you what NOT to eat the way other plans do, it explains why you shouldn't do certain things and how they affect your metabolism. The best part is that it gives you recipes that are fast and easy 

​that​

 your whole family will love so you can take your focus off of food and begin to focus on life instead! It also gives you the workout and attitude adjustments needed for long term success, not to mention it includes our relationship with GOD and how it affects our body. 

SBN:  What if someone doesn't want to work out? Can they still lose weight?

Lisa: YES you can lose weight without working out! 90% of your weight loss success comes from diet which is why I focus so heavily on diet and explain the science behind this finding. Just think of people who get sick and lose weight and they never even move out of their bed. They lose weight despite their metabolism or lack of working out.

SBN: Can you lose weight if you skip breakfast?

Lisa: You can lose weight if you skip breakfast. It’s not recommended because most women play games and bargain with themselves saying, Well I didn't eat breakfast so I can eat more at lunch. Or they get so hungry that they can’t stop eating. That’s where a metabolic boosting protein shake comes in. It allows you to boost your metabolism but doesn't require thinking, planning or lots of clean up, not to mention it’s cheap, easy and extremely delicious! I always suggest to my clients that want to lose weight to drink a shake as their breakfast because most people either don’t eat or eat the wrong thing and this is the solution to your weight loss problem made easy.

SBN: What is the # 1 piece of advice you can give people who want to lose weight but still want to eat what they love?

Lisa: If you won’t change the way you eat at night, you need to replace two meals a day with a metabolic boosting protein shake. Drinking a shake not only boosts your metabolism and improves your mood and health, it also makes weight loss faster and easier so people tend to stick to their plans.  This also creates a budget for the foods you love and I would never live without it as I live for chocolate and frozen yogurt and I have them every day of my life!

SBN: Do you suggest that people go off this plan after losing the weight?

Lisa:  This is the most amazing question I get and I too struggled with understanding that whatever takes the weight off is also what keeps it off and if you want to maintain your weight loss, you need to keep doing what worked. If you go back to your old ways, you go back to your old weight so NO, DON'T EVER STOP doing what works!

SBN:  How long does it take to see results?

Lisa: The best part about boosting your metabolism is that you see and feel results the same day you start. No waiting! Also when people see results fast, they tend to stick to their plan and that’s always good for weight loss.

SBN:  Compared to other plans, what’s the success rate?

Lisa: I love fast results and that’s why I love this program. Boosting your metabolism can help you lose 1 pound a day until you reach your goal weight or you have no more weight to lose. Everyone loses weight on this plan no matter what! I’ve never had anyone not lose weight when following this plan. Lots of people cut corners and that is what’s slows weight loss. You gotta be all in. If you put 100% in, you always get 100% out!

SBN:  What;s your mission in life? 

Lisa: My life mission is to help as many depressed and overweight people lose weight.  Especially teens and families, since being overweight is a family affair and teens are prone to being bullied.

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The Metabolism Solution + Giveaway and Author Interview

The Girl Who Stopped Swimming

Synopsis (from Amazon): Laurel Gray Hawthorne needs to make things pretty, whether she's helping her mother make sure the literal family skeleton stays in the closet or turning scraps of fabric into nationally acclaimed art quilts. Her estranged sister Thalia, an impoverished Actress with a capital A, is her polar opposite, priding herself on exposing the lurid truth lurking behind middle class niceties. While Laurel's life seems neatly on track--a passionate marriage, a treasured daughter, and a lovely home in suburban Victorianna--everything she holds dear is suddenly thrown into question the night she is visited by the ghost of a her 13-year old neighbor Molly Dufresne. The ghost leads Laurel to the real Molly floating lifelessly in the Hawthorne's backyard pool. Molly's death is inexplicable--an unseemly mystery Laurel knows no one in her whitewashed neighborhood is up to solving. Only her wayward, unpredictable sister is right for the task, but calling in a favor from Thalia is like walking straight into a frying pan protected only by Crisco. Enlisting Thalia's help, Laurel sets out on a life-altering journey that triggers startling revelations about her family's guarded past, the true state of her marriage, and the girl who stopped swimming.

Richer and more rewarding than any story Joshilyn Jackson has yet written, yet still packed with Jackson's trademarked outrageous characters, sparkling dialogue, and defiantly twisting plotting, THE GIRL WHO STOPPED SWIMMING is destined both to delight Jackson's loyal fans and capture a whole new audience.

One (or more) Sentence Summary: Woooo…what a twisted plot.  I really enjoyed The Girl Who Stopped Swimming! The book kept me on my toes. There is lots of family past, drama, dysfunctional relationships that leaves you wanting more.  Through all the ups, downs, sideways turns of the book, the mystery is solved.

Favorite Character(s):  Thaila…..the improvised actress who doesn't hold back any punches.

Setting:  In the South, I don't remember exactly where though.

Fast read/slow read:  I listened to The Girl Who Stopped Swimming - I got the CDs from my local library.  It was a fast listen!

Cover:  Works for me!

What Others Are Saying:  "...a great tale [that] builds to an exciting and violent ending, one that surprises and yet seems to fit." 
-USA Today

"... buoyant and moving ....beautifully balanced between magical and realist fiction... closer in tone and voice to Alice Sebold's 'The Lovely Bones' or Richard Ford's Frank Bascombe trilogy."
-Atlanta Journal Constitution

"A ghost story, family psychodrama, and murder mystery all in one. Jackson's latest is a wild, smartly calibrated achievement. A-." 
-Entertainment Weekly

Would I Read Other Books by the Author: Yes, I have several of Joshilyn's books on my phone to listen too!

Joshilyn Jackson is the New York Times Bestselling author of six novels, most recently Someone Else's Love Story.  Her short novella, My Own Miraculous, is a prequel to her latest title, and is available as an e-book and an audio download.

She lives in Decatur, Georgia with her husband and their two kids.  She loves Bourbon and Hot Yoga (not together) and she has more dogs than you. Unless you have three.

Amazon |  Barnes & Noble | Book Depository

The Girl Who Stopped Swimming

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