Rule of Law

Did the President knowingly send Navy SEALS to their death?

That is the very answer people want to know, especially the twenty families of the Navy SEALS that died when a rescue mission went horribly wrong. Did our own government know facts ahead of time that would have spared lives or were they simply in the wrong place at the wrong time?

Veteran trial attorney and critically acclaimed, award-winning author Randy Singer takes us into the heart of political corrupt, legal battles and underhanded deals in his latest political thriller Rule of Law. Using his expert knowledge of law he spins a novel based on critical issues lurking on the horizon in 2016. Is the president above the law in matters of foreign policy? Should the CIA be fighting shadow wars with drones and Special Forces in countries where we have not declared war? And what happens when the lives of service members are sacrificed for political gain?

While the characters in the novel are complete fiction it is hard to match the entertainment value of the real world. All historical references, political, military and legal, are based on actual events. Most of his stories are inspired by real life and because he has filed counterterrorism lawsuits on behalf of clients who were kidnapped and tortured by the Houthis. This is what makes this novel believable to the point you find yourself questioning if this didn't happen already? Perhaps during Benghazi? In this novel a team of twenty Navy SEALS is sent on a covert mission monitored real time in the situation room in Washington, and suddenly it goes horribly wrong.

The team find themselves clearly outnumbered and their intel is flawed. All twenty members lose their lives but before they can send in an extraction team to claim the bodies, the president pulls rank and abandons them. Washington is more than shocked when the bodies of those men are suddenly broadcast on TV in the most horrible way. Suddenly information winds up coming to a team of attorneys that the president may have had for knowledge that this was a suicide mission and she chose to proceed anyway. The novel is the based on that courtcase that plays out in front of everyone in the nation. Will they be able to take the president to court over her mistake at putting men's lives at risk acting as if she is above the law? Find out!

I received Rule of Law by Randy Singer compliments of Tyndale House Publishers and Litfuse Publicity. This is a lengthy book so be prepared to spend some time getting familiarized with all kinds of law terms and court protocols pertaining the the government and military campaigns. There is simply so much the American public doesn't know about the branches of government and where those executive powers begin and end. I thoroughly enjoyed it although I believe it could have been a bit shorter. Some processes just kept repeating themselves and found myself wishing it would just get on with it already. For that reason I am giving this one a 4 out of 5 stars in my own opinion. Fans of anything legal and military based will love this one!

For more information about Rule of Law, Randy Singer or where you can pick up a copy of this novel today, please click on the links below:

Rule of Law by Randy Singer

You can find Randy Singer on Facebook to stay up to date on all his latest novels

To read more reviews on Rule of Law, please visit Litfuse Publicity's Book Tour Page.

Dog Company

What does it take to hold a prisoner in a war?

You just might be surprised at the politics involved that most American's know absolutely nothing about, and if they did, I believe most would be as outraged as I am. It seems like America has to always come out like the good guy during the war and thus our treatment of those who are killing our own troops get treated better than our own soldiers do, even in the face of overwhelming evidence that would easily convict them in our own courts of law. Yet with regard to war time policies, most of this terrorists are allowed to walk free and even have our government provide them with money to leave. Doesn't this just make your blood boil?

In the book, Dog Company by Lynn Vincent and Captain Roger Hill, it highlights one particular event that happened in which American soldiers were abandoned by their high command, meaning anyone higher up the command chain. "In this case the Pentagon does not want you to read about its catch-and-release detention system that allows the same enemy fighters to ambush, bomb, and shoot at America's sons and daughters over and over again. They don't want you to read about the unworkable rules of engagement that ties our troops hands behind their back while sending them to fight against an enemy that has no such rules. They don't want you to read about a system in which young soldiers are court-martialed, kick out of the service, or even imprisoned, while enemy spies who kill Americans are set free.

Dog Company tells the story of one Army unit's tragic experience with all those evils. But Dog Company, a unit of the famed 101st Airborne, is not alone. Her story is being replayed again and again in a lawyered-up war in which, the enemy leverages our rules of engagement by blending into the local population while our warriors, operating in a combat environment, are held not to just the laws of armed conflict but to unprecedented standards of criminal law. Senior civilian and uniformed leaders allow our soldiers and Marines to be tried and convicted for war crimes when, in bygone eras, their actions, motivated by the desire to protect their mates, would have been viewed as collateral damage in the fog of war. " (Author's Note).

I received Dog Company by Lynn Vincent and Captain Roger Hill compliments of Center Street Publishing, a division of Hachette Book Groups. In accordance with the new FTC Guidelines for blogging and endorsements, you should assume that every book reviewed here at Reviews From The Heart was provided to the reviewer by the publisher, media group or the author for free and were received, unless specified otherwise. This is such an eye opening book that really conveys to readers the politics that interfere with our soldiers ability to do their jobs. We know that our enemies don't play by the same standards of warfare that we do and they know what we can and can't do to them, so they simply play our own rules against us and further cost American soldiers more lives lost in an effort to combat terrorism. I was immediately drawn into their story that is conveyed in this book and even includes the blacked out redactions that our government executed in an attempt to keep this from being published. The authors left it in so they could share the book as it was intended to be written so you will see pages of the book with black out phrases or paragraphs the government didn't want shared to the reader. This is such an intense but honest look at what is happening behind the battle lines that the media and most American's don't see but need to understand what is happening everytime our soldiers go out each day to deal with terrorist threats or simply doing their job while being deployed in hostile areas. Well deserving of 5 out of 5 stars and perfect for a Memorial Day read! This book does more than simply talk about the lives of those affect and lost, but gives readers more information about what is really happening to our American troops!

For more information about Dog Company, Lynn Vincent and Captain Roger Hill, or where you can pick up a copy of this book today, please click on the links below:

Dog Company: A True Story of American Soldiers Abandoned By Their High Command by Lynn Vincent and Captain Roger Hill

You can find Dog Company on Facebook to learn more about those featured in this powerful book.

You can find Captain Roger Hill on Facebook to learn more about him and his combat teams!

You can find Lynn Vincent on Facebook to stay up to date on all her latest books.

To read more reviews on Dog Company, please visit Center Street Publishing's website.

One of the Few

The one thing I am always impressed with whenever I come across our service men and women is discipline, honor, integrity and duty. During their military training, they seem to come across things that go beyond a human beings natural desires and override them to perform as they have been trained and not what they "feel" like doing. They do what they are called to do and often times have to make the hard decisions many of us would never consider doing.

Jason B. Ladd has done double duty in his book, One of the Few combining a bit of his own personal memoirs as a Marine alongside learning what it is to become a Christian. He started at the beginning with no training whatsoever in either area, knowing of God but not truly knowing who He is. Along the way Jason shares how each aspect of his training, from basic training to flight school have taught him more than simple military protocal and training as he advanced in the Marines but how each aspect of that training and often mistakes can be applied to a Christian walk of faith.

In the chapter Read, Fly, Repeat, he shares how much faith is evident in every aspect of a fighter pilots life. While he doesn't build the plane or maintain it, still each time he steps inside the cockpit, he has to have faith that someone who does that job, has done it to the best of their ability, therefore giving him faith that it will perform as it should.

"I have faith in the Marines who work on the jets; they have faith in my ability to fly them - together, we complete the mission. Marines are expected to maintain the highest standards of discipline, professionalism, and integrity. Every lance corporal turning a wrench knows he is part of a team. Without his help, jets will not fly, and without his attention to detail, pilots will not succeed. He does his best because that's what Marines do. They do not settle for average. Marine's work day, night and t hrough the weekend to make sure the job is done right. That's why I have faith in the Marines who maintain the fleet. "

"This was a revelation. I never thought of myself as a man of faith, yet I was beginning to see how much faith I had in everyday things. I need faith to drive to work every day. I have fiath I will receive a paycheck for my work because legal checks and balances ensure compensation and deter unfair business practices. And I must trust architects because I don't worry about roofs collapsing on my head. In order to remain sane, I must trust these even will not occur despite a lack of proof." (95).

I received One of the Few by Jason B. Ladd by Boone Shepherd Publishing and applaud this writers use of military memoirs to also illustrate his growing Christian faith. For some who read this book, especially service men and women, this life lessons will resound more to them because it applies to the brotherhood shared among those in our military service. I love the way his faith grew in the different aspects of his learning to become a Marine pilot and even how mistakes teach us valuable lessons of growing in our own walk of faith. We don't quit, we simply get up, shake off the dust and soldier on. For me, this one really earned a 4 out of 5 stars in my opinion because I really LOVED his duality in this novel, one from growing up in the military and becoming a Marine and the life lessons he gained from that, but secondly, how his walk of faith grew out of those very same lessons in a remarkable way.

For more information about One of the Few, Jason B. Ladd or where you can pick up a copy of this book today, please click on the links below:

One of the Few by Jason B. Ladd

You can find Jason B. Ladd on Facebook to stay up to date on all his latest books.

Treason

"I am concerned for the security of our great Nation; not so much because of any threat from without, but because of the insidious forces working from within." ~ Douglas MacArthur

Hard to imagine that you could take down a super power nation like the United States of America, but we all know too well that in order to take down any terrorist threat is is best to do so on their land and not wait for them to come here. However that is just the premise behind the latest novel from Newt Gingrich, Treason. With the threat of Islamic Terrorism on the rise and happening in remote locations it seems like it is coming from within our own borders. American bred terrorists makes for a chilling premise that even appointed officials in the presidential cabinet might be on the wrong side of fighting our own enemies.

When the President is the target in a potential suicide attack, sources show that someone from within the White House may be the source of the threat. Ever since 9/11 our nation has been fighting an invisible battle against radical terrorists while the Muslim people want their religion removed as the basis for this ongoing terrorism, as it is singling them out as a people and a religion. Even those in the White House are asking the President to stop using key words like Islamic, Muslim and religious fanatics, in order to bring down the hostilities against the Muslim people living in America.

But when a new terror figure emerges on the national scene known only as the Falcon, his target is now Major Brooke Grant and the young girl she has sworn to protect, as he issues a fatwa against her and those she loves. The only problem is that the threat is closer than she could have ever imagined, an American-born traitor burrowed inside the U.S. government itself.

"Treason is a story of a nation fighting for its life not only against outside threats but also against an internal threat - a fanatical jihadist who uses liberty as a shield while trying to destroy the civilization crated in its image. Can she unmask the traitor and stop Falcon's most skilled assassin sent to kill her before he strikes? Or will she fall victim to betrayal by a false friend in this gripping tale of treachery, courage, and ultimately patriotism where good battles evil?" (inside cover).

I received Treason by Newt Gingrich compliments of Center Street Publishing, a division of Hachette Book Groups. What makes this novel so interesting is our current President who is establishing Muslims within our current governmental offices and I can see how this book could become a very real threat even though it is a fictional based story. The quote by Douglas MacArthur is valid and it should be the concern of every American citizen to be educated enough about the not only the religious beliefs of Muslims but also what the intentions are of our enemies both abroad and now from within. For me, all of Newt's novels are action-packed and edge of your seat adrenaline rushes because once you begin them, it never lets up until you get to the final page. I read this one in a couple of hours. Definitely makes me sit up and take notice of what is happening in Washington and in light of the coming presidential election, we need to take note of protecting not only our borders but the people assigned to various roles within our own government offices. The threat is real and thus the reason for my 4.5 out of 5 stars.

For more information about Treason, Newt Gingrich or where you can pick up a copy of this book today, please click on the links below:

Treason: A Novel by Newt Gingrich 

You can find Newt Gingrich on Facebook to stay up to date with all his latest novels.

To read more reviews on Treason: A Novel, please visit Center Street Publishing's website. 

Pocket Prayers

"Hello, my name is Max. I'm a recovering prayer wimp. I doze off when I pray. My thoughts zig, then zag, then zig again. Distractions swarm like gnats on a summer night. If attention deficit disorder applies to prayer, I am afflicted. When I pray, I think of a thousand things I need to do. I forget the one thing I set out to do: pray.

Some people excel in prayer. They inhale heaven and exhale God. They are the SEAL Team Six of intercession. They would rather pray than sleep. Why is it that I sleep when I pray? They belong to the PGA: Prayer Giants Association. I am a card carrying member of the PWA: Prayer Wimps Association. Can you relate? It's not that we don't pray at all. We all pray some.

On tear-stained pillows we pray.

In grand liturgies we pray.

At the sight of geese in flight we pray.

Quoting ancient devotions, we pray.

We pray to stay sober, centered or solvent. We pray when the lump is deemed malignant. When the money runs out before the month does. When the unborn baby hasn't kicked in a while. We all pray...some. But wouldn't we all like to pray....

More?

Better?

Deeper?

Stronger?

With more fire, faith, or fervency? Yet we have kids to feed, bills to pay, deadlines to meet. The calendar pounces on our good intentions like a tiger on a rabbit. We want to pray, but when? We want to pray, but why? We might as well admit it. Prayer is odd, peculiar. Speaking into space. Lifting words into the sky. We can't even get the cable company to answer us, yet God will? The doctor is too busy, but God isn't? We have our doubts about prayer.

Prayer is not a privilege of the pious, not the art of a chosen few. Prayer is simply a heartfelt conversation between God and his child. My friend, he wants to talk with you. Even now, as you read these words, he taps at the door. Open it. Welcome him in. Let the conversation begin. "
(Pg 5-7, 12)

In typical easy reading fashion, Max Lucado introduces readers to Pocket Prayers, 6 uniquely designed books to help Dads, Moms, Friends, Grads, Military, and Teachers with 40 specific prayers designed to help inspire and encourage your prayer life. They will bring joy and serenity in Pocket Prayer for Friends with Max and Betsy St. Amant. They bring peace and rest to Pocket Prayers for Moms with Max and Andrea Lucado. In Pocket Prayers for Dads, 40 simple prayers help bring strength and faith to our men with Max and Mark Mynheir. Pocket Prayers for Grads promises 40 simple prayers that bring hope and direction in the life ahead of them with Max and Andrea Lucado. 40 simple prayers that bring faith and courage can be uncovered in Pocket Prayers for the Military Life, with Max and Mark Myheir, to anyone serving in our military. Finally 40 simple prayers that bring peace and renewal in Pocket Prayers for Teachers, with Max and Jennifer K. Hale.

These simple but encouraging books provide just the right kinds of prayer in every single life of a believer in just the way they need it. I gifted Pocket Prayers for Dads, to my own father, who is just beginning to discover his life as a believer in Christ, to encourage him in his own prayer life. I have gifted Pocket Prayers for Military Life to a close friend who just made the decision to enlist in the army to help him realize that no matter how far from home he is, God will always be right there for him. Pocket Prayers for Graduates is given to my 17-year-old daughter who is graduating in June to help her always realize that when she faces uncertainty in her future, she can always trust God for the right path in her life. I have given Pocket Prayers for Moms to my own mother, because she has always inspired me that prayer is the one thing we always have any time day or night no matter what we are enduring. Finally Pocket Prayers for Teachers I have gifted to our Youth Pastor who's responsibility it is to help lead the next generation to trust and have faith in God.

I received Pocket Prayers by Max Lucado compliments of Thomas Nelson and Litfuse Publicity for my honest review. I did not receive any monetary compensation, aside from these free books, in exchange for my honest and personal opinions. The one thing I love about any of Max Lucado's books is the down to earth feel you get when reading them. It's not like reading a book, but having a heart to heart conversation with a close friend. He meets you right where you are, and you feel like you're on the same page with him.

For me, I struggle a lot in my own prayer life, first doing it and then staying focused when I do. These unique hard covered books are perfect for that person in your life that needs the inspiration and encouragement in their prayer life and that is why I give these a 5 out of 5 stars in my opinion.

For more information about Pocket Prayers, Max Lucado, or where you can pick up a copy of these today, please click on the links below:

Pocket Prayers by Max Lucado

You can find Max Lucado on Facebook to stay up to date with all his latest books.

To read more reviews on Pocket Prayers, please visit Litfuse Publicity's Book Tour Page.

To enter a giveaway for the Pocket Prayer's Prize Pack, please click here. 

Faith of Our Fathers - DVD Review and Giveaway

As Veteran's Day approaches, I can think of no greater tribute than to offer a great review and giveaway of the DVD Faith of Our Fathers from Pure Flix Entertainment and Flyby Promotions. My father and mother both served during the Vietnam War and theirs was not the story that was glorified and honored when they returned like those of the WW1 and WWII campaigns.

In Faith of Our Fathers conveys the story of two men Eddie and Steven who in 1969 find themselves fighting side by side in the Vietnam war, and soon become more than friends and partners, but true brothers in the war so to speak. As the war continues they both write to the sons, John Paul and Wayne they have in the states through a series of letters hoping their words might inspire and encourage their sons should they return from the war. However after a five day mission to retrieve fallen comrades, they both lose their lives.

Now twenty five years later, John Paul and Wayne meet as John Paul tries to find the man his father talked so valiantly about in hopes of learning more about his father, but when he comes across Wayne, he is nothing but a bitter alcoholic who doesn't want anything to do with the father he feels has abandoned him. Yet he holds the only key to John Paul understanding his own father, and he manages to convince Wayne to journey with him to the Vietnam Wall in Washington DC, as Wayne gives him letters from his own father for a price along the way. They two will understand more than they ever thought possible as the movie takes viewers back through a series of flashbacks to help understand the bond that their fathers shared and how it will forever change their own perspectives of who they believed their fathers were.

I received Faith of Our Fathers compliments of Pure Flix Entertainment and FlyBy Promotions for my honest review. I did not receive any monetary compensation for a favorable review and the opinions contained here are strictly my own personal ones. This DVD runs 96 minutes and contains special features such as, The Heart of Faith of our Fathers, Honoring Father's Day, Commemorating Memorial Day, Si Robertson Interview, and Stephen Baldwin Interview. Candace Cameron Bure, Rebecca St. James, Stephen Baldwin and Si Robertson star in this amazing movie. It parallels the story of fathers and sons, twenty five years apart, and shows how they are bound together forever which is such a worthy tribute to our veterans this Veteran's Day!

Thanks to the generous folks at Pure Flix Entertainment and FlyBy Promotions, they are offering a giveaway copy of this DVD. Here are your guidelines to enter:

1. Be a follower of my Blog, Reviews From The Heart (1 entry).

2. "Like" my Facebook page, Reviews From the Heart (1 entry).

3. "Share" my blog review link or Facebook link (2 entries for each share). Include the #ReviewsFromTheHeartGiveaway.

4. Leave a comment on either site or both telling me why you'd love to win a copy of this DVD. (2 entries for each site). If you are leaving a comment on my blog, please include your email address so I have a way of contacting you, if you are the lucky winner of the giveaway. You can use the words (at) or (dot) instead of the symbols.

5. Giveaway open to residents of the US or Canada and please NO P.O. Boxes!

The giveaway will end on November 13th and you can enter as many times as you would like. The winner will be notified by email or instant message and you will have 72 hours to respond before another winner is selected.

Disclosure (in accordance with the FTC’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising”): Many thanks to Propeller Consulting, LLC for providing this prize for the giveaway. Choice of winners and opinions are 100% my own and NOT influenced by monetary compensation. I did receive a sample of the product in exchange for this review and post.

Only one entrant per mailing address, per giveaway. If you have won a prize from our sponsor Propeller / FlyBy Promotions in the last 30 days, you are not eligible to win. If you have won the same prize on another blog, you are not eligible to win it again. Winner is subject to eligibility verification.”  

For more information about Faith of our Fathers, Pure Flix Entertainment or where you can pick up a copy of this DVD today, please click on the links below:

Faith of Our Fathers by Pure Flix Entertainment

You can find Faith of our Fathers on Facebook to stay up to date with all the latest regarding the film project.

You can also find Pure Flix on Facebook to stay up to date on all their latest films.

We Had A Job To Do

It isn't hard as an American to appreciate the freedoms we often take for granted and simply forget that such freedoms were not free, but were the result of the ultimate price paid for by the service men and women who served in this nations armed forces. Being a child of both parents who were veterans in the war as well as a grandfather who played a part in WWII, I find myself drawn to those brave men and women who served without considering the sacrifices that would be required of them, and one I feel is vastly missing from our citizens today, to appreciate those who continue to fight for the freedoms we still have in this country.

In Thereas Anzaldua's book, We Had A Job To Do, she has compiled a vast history of those who played a part in WWII and the stories that each had to tell about how they summed up their military careers and what their role did in helping us through those difficult years. From the onset of the Great Depression and Dust Bowl, many men simply looked to the military as a way to find self worth when all the jobs were not available until we entered the war on December 7, 1941 with the bombing of Pearl Harbor. This book chronicles the lives of those like B-25 bomber pilots on the US Hornet, to the role women played as the first WACs and WAVES, from the Navajo Code Talkers to the to the Tuskegee Airman, from how the Douglas Plant was Camouflaged to the inspiration of the talents of such notables as Glenn Miller, there is something for everyone in this book.

The only issue I had with the layout of this book was as you began with one person's story, the chapter would end and ask you to head to a later chapter to continue their story, this made for a huge disconnection for me, trying to flip all over the book to keep the continuity of the person's life I was following. I believe the authors intent was to keep the timeline's current and as the person's life continued later it was if you picked them back up later in the war years. For me, it would have benefited the reader more if they simply stayed with one particular person's story until that came to a conclusion, but that is my only critique of the book. This was well thought out and love that you can see things in the life of so many different varieties of the people who served in the war efforts of WWII.

I received We Had A Job To Do by Theresa Anzaldua compliments of iRead Book Tours for my honest review. I did not receive any monetary compensation aside from a free copy of this book, in exchange for an honest review. I love that this is filled with such a variety of stories because it takes you into the heart of the various people, nationalities and service groups that helped make the war a success and not only that how they attempted to go back after they served their time, it wasn't always an easy transition. I guess my favorite is the women's role not in the Rosie the Riveters but in the women who served, not only as nurses, but as pilots as well. For me, this one was a 4 out of 5 stars simply based on the confusing layout but love that images accompany each chapter highlighting these brave men and women and also those times when we truly had a sense of patriotism and valued our service men and women. I think this does a great job at honoring them and the jobs they had to do.

For more information about We Had A Job To Do, Theresa Anzaldua or where to pick up a copy of this book today, please click on the links below:

We Had A Job To Do by Theresa Anzaldua

You can find Theresa Anzaldua on Facebook to keep up to date on more war stories she shares on her page.

To read more reviews on We Had A Job To Do, please visit iReads Book Tour page and take part in the giveaway that is being hosted as well.

Rescue at Los Banos

I had the distinct opportunity to review Rescue at Los Banos, which gives the reader an in-depth look at the Santo Tomas Internment Camp during the beginning of WWII in which many American's were imprisoned for more than three years while waiting to be rescued. Not only do you gain the insight on what it was like for those who were imprisoned but also what types of military campaigns were being waged at that time in the Pacific, after the bombing at Pearl Harbor.

As Japanese soldiers guarding the American prisoners, most of them civilians at the Los Banos Internment Campe, conditions began to rapidly deteriorate as they began to systematically starve, beat and killing their captives. Most held behind the razor wire fences hoped that the war would be over soon, but as time stretched most faced the horrors of war as those who were their captors ignored plain evidence that they were dying and facing disease and malnutrition.

Bruce Henderson, tells the dramatic story of accounts at the Japanese prison camps including detailed analysis of the complex military operations being planned and carried out. He tells the story of ordinary men and women thrust into the unspeakable horrors of World War II and the valiant heroes who would eventually saved those who were left.

Military preparations are shared as well as strategy challenges of dealing with a military that wasn't prepared for jungle warfare at the hands of General Douglas MacArthur. The three pronged attacks of deploying troops by land, air and sea had to be carried out in absolute darkness in order to be successful using all types of technology available at the time which isn't half as well as we have it today.

I received Rescue at Los Banos by Bruce Henderson compliments of William Morrow, a division of Harper Collins Publishers for my honest review. I did not receive any monetary compensation for a favorable review and the opinions contained here are strictly my own. This is by far one of the most daring prison camp raids of WWII and the photographs that accompany each chapter, gives life to what each had to endure, including some photographs snapped inside the prison by those held captive. I love it when you can get a sneak peek inside some of the stories most of us miss from history and applaud Bruce Henderson for providing it in this comprehensive hardcover book. Well worth every single 5 out of 5 stars in my mind. Being a huge WWII lover, I will be adding this one to my growing collection.

For more information about Rescue at Los Banos, Bruce Henderson or where you can pick up a copy of this book today, please click on the links below:

Rescue at Los Banos by Bruce Henderson

You can find Bruce Henderson on Facebook to stay up to date with all his latest books.

To read more reviews on Rescue at Los Banos, please visit William Morrow's website.

Gooseberry Island

If you have never read any of Steven Manchester's novels, you really need to pick them up. For fans of romance or simply wanting something that honestly puts you in the driver's seat when it comes to your novels, Steven's novels do just that and more. I am honored to review his latest novel Gooseberry Island and literally read it in one sitting. Not too fast to finish it before I wanted, because once I finish, it will be quite some time before another one comes out. Great novels are like that. You get excited when you see your favorite author has come out with a new book. You don't even have to read the premise because everything you have read by them has been amazing, so you will instantly pick it up and buy it. But it is also bittersweet because you know the writing will so intense and exceptional, you are flipping your final page without realizing it and then it's over. No more until the next novel is written. Kinda like exceptional movie trilogy's. Once the final one hits the big screen, it is bittersweet.

In Gooseberry Island, we meet David McClain, an Army Ranger back for his second tour in Afghanistan and is hoping at some point in his life to find someone just like him, who is ready to settle down and start a family. But lately all he keeps finding is shallow women who are interested in the one thing most men are and don't want any strings attached. He had hoped he might find a special someone he could write to while he was serving overseas but perhaps it is for the best. Who knows if he will make it home this time, and would hate to have started something only to leave their heart broken if the inevitable should happen.

Lindsey Wood knows first hand the horrors of PTSD. Caring for her father who is dealing with the implications of war and PTSD, if he isn't checked in at the veteran's hospital for her own well being, he is struggling to make sense of the nightmares he has when he is home. It isn't the first time that Lindsey has been on the receiving end of her fathers fists unable to awaken from the horrors he faced during the war. She knows it's not her father's fault but hopes that there is something that can be done, without having him committed to the hospital for both their benefits.

Lindsey and David fall for one another quite literally on the beach one afternoon, when Lindsey's dog trips David while running. The two of them immediately hit it off in more ways than one, but it is bittersweet because it is on the very same day that David has left before he ships out. It is hard to put their finger on it, but Lindsey and David know there is something more to their connection that they realize and vow to get to know each other more while David is away for the next year. But we all know war changes a person, but will David be the same person he was when he left Gooseberry Island or will the war take yet another casualty when he arrives home?

I received Gooseberry Island by Steven Manchester compliments of the author himself and Story Plant Publishers for my honest review. Besides the complimentary copy of the book, I did not receive any monetary compensation for a favorable review and the opinions contained here are strictly my own. I absolutely LOVED this novel. The storyline was compelling enough to keep me engaged in both the characters and I didn't realize that more returning soldiers and veteran's die of suicide than the war claims! It is heart breaking, believable and pulls at your emotional heart strings because you are rooting for David and Lindsey the whole time. You are biting your nails wondering if David will make it home during his tour, and makes you realize how strong the ties are between soldiers who return from the war with their teammates. I easily give this one a 5 out of 5 stars in my opinion.

For more information about Gooseberry Island, Steven Manchester or where you can pick up a copy of this novel today, please click on the links below:

Gooseberry Island by Steven Manchester

You can find Steven Manchester on Facebook to stay up to date with all his latest novels.

You can learn more about Gooseberry Island by visiting The Story Plants website.

Wings of Angels: Tribute to the Art of WWII Pinup and Aviation Volume 1

So if you have been following my book review site, Reviews From The Heart, you already know I am a huge fan of WWII history, aviation and fashion. I am super excited to share something that combines the beauty of WWII Pinups, authentic WWII aircraft, some history of the time period and people that sacrificed so much for the freedoms we now, including Hollywood's role in the war effort ,all captured in beautiful color, sepia, and black and white photos by photographer Michael Malak. In the first of a two volume set, Wings of Angels: Tribute to the Art of WWII Pinup and Aviation Volume 1, is a three year plus project that the photographer captured as a tribute to his grandfather, Henry Michael Malak, a WWII veteran that passed away before the book could be published. It bears a dedication page that outlines the purpose of capturing the very essence of WWII and the veterans that are slowly slipping into history as time marches on.

The photographs are tastefully done which is why I reviewed the book. From classic 1940's fashion, to period lingerie all the photos capture that moment when women would have their photos taken to encourage their men as a way to remember what awaited them when they got home and that their sacrifice was not all in vain. Hollywood starlets joined the ranks from Betty Grable, Rita Hayworth, Veronica Lake and even Dorothy Lamore whose pictures as a pinup model raised more than $300 million dollars through war bond sales. These women became the inspiration that contributed to the pin up look that is captured in this book.

For those that love the planes and the history that goes along with them, Michael Malak takes you right into the heart of the cockpit as you fly the P51D Mustang, P-40 Warhawk, B-17G Fortress, BT-13B Valiant, SBD-4 Dauntless, and C-47 Skytrain. From plane specifications, service histories, flight crew stories, missions, and everything in between, you truly get an indepth inside look at some of those planes our service men and women have flown. The pictures of the aircraft alone gives readers a look inside some of these planes we might never see. All the aircraft in this volume are stored currently at Yanks Air Museum in Chino as well as the B-17G can be viewed at Palm Springs Air Museum if you want a closer look.

As if there isn't already enough, tucked between the pages of this hard cover book, Michael captures the big advertising companies of WWII from the story of Coca Cola and the War, to the Lucky Strike campaigns to lend their support to the war through rationing efforts in their packaging. There are some amazing artists that also shared their work thanks to Michael's inspriational photographs and commissioned their work to appear in this volume from Kelly X, Romain Hugault, Carlos Vlaenzuela, and Lorenzo Di Mauro give you that extra bonus that truly completes this collection. There are even some amazing stories called "fun facts" that share what happened on those beautiful shots that were captured and how difficult it was to obtain that perfect final look that you see in this book.

I received Wings of Angels: Tribute to the Art of WWII Pinup and Aviation by Michael Malak compliments of Schiffer Publishing for my honest review. I did not receive any monetary compensation for a favorable review and the opinions contained here are strictly my own. There is truly something for everyone in this book whether you love the planes, the fashion, the history, the advertising or the pinups, this is a great gift for just about any WWII fan of photography and history. I easily give this book a 5 out of 5 stars and don't forget when you pick this one up, you might want to grab volume 2 as well. Word has it there is even a 2015 Wings of Angels calendar available as well.

For more information about Wings of Angels: Tribute to the Art of WWII Pinup and Aviation, Michael Malak, or where you can pick up a copy of this book today, please click on the links below:

Wings of Angels: Tribute to the Art of WWII Pinup and Aviation Volume 1 by Michael Malak

You can find Michael Malak on Facebook to stay up to date with all his latest books and photography.

To order a limited edition commemorative set that includes both volumes in a slipcase for the true collector, please click here.

Lords of the Sky

If you are a fan of fighter pilots, vintage aircraft or just an all around military/history buff from World War I and II, Vietnam, Korean, and even our most recent military campaigns that involve aircraft, then trust me, you'll definitely want to get your hands on the latest book from Dan Hampton. Lords of the Sky takes readers into the history of aviation from the very first planes designed and attempted to be flown by such legends as the Wright Bros and to Etienne Montgofier who piloted the first balloon air reconnaissance in 1783. The books really takes to heart every conceivable well known plane, engines, and pilots and showcases them in a great chronological order that even a woman can understand and truly enjoy.

The book isn't just about aviation either, is illustrates the reason for needing air support and just what is required before you simply attach a machine gun on to the top of your barn storming bi-plane. The details of flight from thrust, lift, drag and weight are critical components we take for granted when we board our commercial airlines and head for our tropical vacation destination. We learn how weaponry was added to this planes, and what the limitations of getting them to work entailed. From learning how not to shoot your propeller off, the dealing with the elements inside an open cockpit and what to do when you are wits end in the midst of a dog fight.

It is hard to realize that in the years leading up to World War I, no one really gave serious thought to armed aircraft. In fact, the U.S. War Department turned the Wright brothers down on three occasions for a military version of their contraption, and the British secretary of war stated in 1910, "We do not consider that aeroplanes will be of any possible use for war purposes." We have certainly come a long way since that day. From fighting air battles with low visibility, freezing cold temperatures and your only weapon being a carefully aimed brick were just the things that pilots had to contend with. In fact in WWI, most pilots average life span was only 2 weeks.

From the Red Baron, to the Royal Air Force, to the Mitsubishi Zero to Supermarine Spitfire, to the P-51 Mustang to the Grumman Hellcat all the way to the F-16 and F-18 SuperHornets, the aviation lover is bound to find something in this 600+ page hardcover book. "The Lords of the Sky is about the fighter pilot. It begins with the Great War, as World War I was originally known because the sky over the trenches was the birthplace of the fighter pilot. The development of fighter aircraft and the combat pilot was more closely tied to ground actions during the Great War than was the case in subsequent conflict. Aviation services were a fledgling military branch and closely attached to their parent armies. So the ground situation is explained in some detail to give the reader an explanation of why fighter development occurred as it did." (author note).

I received Lords of the Sky by Dan Hampton compliments of William Morrow, a division of Harper Collins Publishers for my honest review. I did not receive any monetary compensation for a favorable review and the opinions expressed here are strictly my own, unless otherwise notated. Even though as a woman book reviewer, I love the way Dan wrote this book. It wasn't so over the top with airplane jargon and detailed descriptions that I would find myself completely lost. In fact, it was just the opposite. I felt myself drawn into the background of the military campaigns and didn't realize how difficult winning a war was and what some of the overwhelming odds faced our armed forces. It gave me a greater appreciation not only for our service men and women but for fighter pilots who are often faced with solo survival in the midst of high altitude flying over enemy lines. Well worth the money to invest in this book for fans of military, fighter pilots, and war heroes alike who are looking for something completely different. I rate this book a 4.5 out of 5 stars. Not since the invention of the encyclopedia, do you have so much information packed into one book!

For more information about Lords of the Sky, Dan Hampton, and where you can pick up a copy of this book today, please click on the links below:

Lords of the Sky by Dan Hampton

You can find Dan Hampton on Facebook to stay up to date with all his latest books.

To read more reviews on Lord of the Sky, please visit William Morrow's website.

Trinity: Military War Dog

After three tours in the Special Forces, she outranked most of the men she worked with. Especially her handler Heath "Ghost" Daniels. War dogs and specialized search dogs were high-value targets. Terrorists paid big for dead military working dogs. She has countless lives saved under her belt and her final tour almost cost her and Heath their lives in Afghanistan. Thanks to the efforts of the new resolution signed into law by President Clinton a few years back, which allowed dogs to live out the remainder of their years rather than being euthanized after the military decided they were done with the dogs, Trinity has a second chance.

As one of three dogs working with their handlers at A Breed Apart Ranch in Texas, each of these teams is once again training for contract work from companies who have contractors on the ground in Iraq and Afghanistan, even their own military. They've seen the great benefit of war dogs and will pay nice fees to have a for-hire availability. Especially since his latest request to rejoin his team as a chaplain was also turned down. It seems to Heath that God is keeping him from finding his true calling back into active service and soon grows frustrated in his own faith. For Heath this is the opportunity for them to get back into action since the IED concussion from the blast and shrapnel sliced through his skull and left him with a traumatic brain injury. This is a program designed by Jibril Khori, former Green Beret and colleague for former military war or working dogs and an opportunity to continue to utilize what they were trained for once again but in a different capacity.

When Heath and Trinity get called to Northern Afghanistan under contract for the Public Affairs Office, as part of a morale-boosting for the troops, he meets Darci Kintz. It seems they have a lot in common but Heath has to make sure to keep his stress in check. In fact that is why the other handlers, Timbrel Hogan and Aspen Courtland are also on this trip, to ensure he doesn't black out. The truth was spelled out on the three faces of the other ABA( A Breed Apart) members: They didn't trust him to do his job. They expected him to fail. God just wouldn't give him a break. And the more he stressed about it, the more he kept blacking out. Is it possible she can find someone who can truly love her despite her secrets or will Trinity be the only girl for Heath? When Heath receives word that a military intelligence officer, Darci who is gathering evidence tracking the Taliban as an undercover geological survey team member has been kidnapped, it will be just the golden opportunity for Heath and Trinity to be called back into action once again. Will he be able to keep his focus or will he put all their lives in danger?

In Trinity, Military War Dog by Ronie Kendig, we get an opportunity to see what its like to work with these handlers and their canine companions in the various military forces and see just how dangerous and truly rewarding their work can be in this fictional novel. Ronie did an exceptional job at her research into what it takes for both the canine and their handlers to work together in some dangerous assignments. I am so honored to be able to look into a different side of serving in the military and just how far loyalty and honor go hand in hand with these service dogs. I also got an opportunity to view the Belgian Malinois that is Trinity's breed of dog and learn more about them after I finished this book. Truly a remarkable breed of dog that is highly intelligent for this line of work.

I received Trinity: Military War Dog by Ronie Kendig compliments of Barbour Publishing and Net Galley for my honest opinion. It is a must read for any military or service dog lover and really hit home for me. I love how much a handler and their dog play upon one another so that they really become one with their thoughts and actions. I applaud Ronie's expertise is bringing this unsung hero to light and to showcase just how dangerous and rewarding their work really is. It is the beginning of an exciting new series, A Breed Apart and I can't wait to read the next book!!! In my personal opinion, this one rates a 5 out of 5 service stars!!!

For more information on Trinity: Military War Dog, Ronie Kendig or where to pick up a copy of this book today, please click on the links below:

Trinity: Military War Dog by Ronie Kendig

You can also find Ronie Kendig on Facebook to stay up to date with all her latest books or at her website by clicking here. 

• Paperback: 352 pages
• Publisher: Barbour Books (September 1, 2012)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 1616265949
• ISBN-13: 978-1616265946
• Product Dimensions: 8.3 x 5.5 x 1 inches

Hope Unseen

Captain Scotty Smiley, might not see things like we do, but it doesn't mean he doesn't see what is important and how to live his life despite seemingly difficult circumstances. While serving in Mosul in Iraq he became the target of a suicide bomber and subsequently lost his eyesight. He could have dealt with things as most of us would have and simply come home and attempt to live a life as best as he could now being completely blind, but he didn't. He did things most of us only imagine. He scaled the heights of Mt. Rainer, served as the army's first action-duty blind officer and its first blind company commander.

He continues to inspire countless numbers of people including myself to stop feeling sorry for what life has dealt you and instead move forward in the grace and strength that God has given us all. In each chapter, you see how difficult things are for Scotty to pick up the pieces and simply do what all of us with sight can do. Perhaps we are the ones who are truly blind and Scotty has been given a different set of eyes to see the possibilities in life, if we are only willing to take a step of faith and move forward. I truly believe that this book is a great inspirational story and the perfect gift for those facing their own set of unique circumstances that are attempting to hold them back. It will hopefully provide them with enough hope that they don't have to settle for anything less than what God has in store for them. The possibilities are truly endless.

I received Hope Unseen by Captain Scotty Smiley compliments of Howard Books, a division of Simon and Schuster Publishers for my honest review. I truly value my gift of sight, and wouldn't know where to begin to do even some of the things that Scotty did. I could never imagine in my wildest dreams, taking on a mountain climb to a 14,000 foot summit, across endless ice bridges only strong enough to support one man, and knowing you must walk it alone with only words and a rope as your guide. Just closing my eyes and attempting to navigate a sidewalk is challenging enough for me. Scotty Smiley is a true inspiration to those of us that often wonder where the heroes are in this world. In my book, he is one of the greatest. I easily rate this book a 5 out of 5 stars and highly recommend this one if you are feeling with no hope in your life. Perhaps it might change how you "see" your life!

For more information about Hope Unseen, Captain Scotty Smiley, Doug Crandall or where to pick up a copy of this book, please click on the links below:

Hope Unseen by Captain Scotty Smiley and Doug Crandall. 

You can also find Captain Scotty Smiley on Facebook. 

To learn more about where to purchase a copy of this book and read an excerpt, please click here. 

• Hardcover: 256 pages
• Publisher: Howard Books; 1 edition (September 14, 2010)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 1439183791
• ASIN: B004L2KMS8
• Product Dimensions: 9.1 x 6.2 x 1 inches

Viper Pilot ~ Giveaway and Review

First of all I wanted to say that having men like Dan Hampton in the Air Force and military for the United States of America is what makes our country the greatest nation in the world! I could not believe the stories that Dan has told throughout the book about all of the missions he has been on, along with all of the other fighters in his unit and in Iraq! From the moment you read this book, you get a thrill ride that puts you in the back seat (if there was one) of the F-16 “Fighting Falcon” or Viper as the fighters call it! Thank you Dan and all of the other fighters, front line and support groups for all that you do to take it to our enemies and keep the fighting away from our homeland! You all deserve the highest honors our country has to offer and I for one am honored to call you a fellow American!

From 1986 to 2006 Lt. Col. Dan Hampton performed 151 combat missions as a Wild Weasel fighter pilot, flew over 600 combat hours around the world and has logged over 3000 flight hours while in the USAF from 1986-2006. He has 21 hard kills on surface-to-air-missile sites. 4 Distinguished Flying Crosses with Valor, 1 Purple Heart, and more medals and accommodations than I can list. He is a graduate of the USAF Fighter Weapons School, USN Top Gun School (TOGS), and USAF Special Operations School. Dan spearheaded the 2003 invasion of Iraq, leading the first flight of fighters over the boarder and deep into Iraq and Baghdad and also has several awards for tactical innovation.

Now retired, he has time to write about all of his experiences within the USAF and all of his missions while in Iraq and other places around the world. This book, if not to tell you how dangerous his combat missions really are, will make you realize that men like Dan risk their lives on a daily basis for our freedoms we hold so dear in this country. So sit down, buckle up, and hold on for a kick ass ride so to speak! I could not put the book down when I started to read the real life story of this amazing man who not only lived through every mission and ordeal, but wrote about each mission as if he can recall every detail that happened at every moment within that mission. I am sure that each time he went up it was like tattooing a mental image of all of his surroundings when his life was on the line. Each mission he describes puts you in the cockpit with him and brings you into the life and times of Dan’s life while in Iraq!

From actually flying an F-16 that goes into battle to not only be used as a target for surface-to-air-missiles (SAMS), and all other types of rockets, and gunfire being aimed at him to hunting, targeting and destroying these sites. Their acronym of “YGBSM” (You Gotta be Shittin Me!) is perfect for the type of Wild Weasel fights these fighters incurred on a daily basis. Who else but the Wild Weasels would go into a heavily defended area, have missiles and all other types of gunfire target them and try to destroy them while they seek out each missile site and destroy them! Dan I had respect for you and all of the other fighters like you, but this book gives me a new found respect for all of our military.

I received Viper Pilot: A Memoir of Air Combat by Dan Hampton compliments of William Morrow, a division of Harper Collins Publishers for my honest review. I rate this book a 5 out of 5 stars and would give an additional 5 stars if I could! Thank you Dan for such a well written, action packed and authentic in every detail memoire of your life as a fighter pilot! READ THIS BOOK!!!!!

For more information on Viper Pilot: A Memoir of Air Combat, Dan Hampton or where you can purchase a copy of this book today, please click on the links below: 

Viper Pilot: A Memoir of Air Combat by Dan Hampton

You can also find Dan Hampton on Facebook by clicking here. 

Now for the exciting part, thanks to William Morrow they are offering a giveaway copy to one lucky follower of my blog, Reviews From The Heart. Here's all you have to do to enter: 

1. Be a follower of my blog, Reviews From The Heart. 

2. Be a resident of the US or have a US shipping address. No P.O. Boxes please. 

3. Leave a comment about why you'd like to win a copy of Viper Pilot below. Don't forget to include your email address as well. You can use the words (at) and (dot) instead of the symbols. 

I will notify the winner of the giveaway by email once it ends on October 22nd!

American Sniper: The Autobiography of The Most Lethal Sniper in US Military History

He is the deadliest American sniper ever, called “the devil” by the enemies he hunted and “the legend” by his Navy SEAL brothers . . .

From 1999 to 2009, U.S. Navy SEAL Chris Kyle recorded the most career sniper kills in United States military history. The Pentagon has officially confirmed more than 150 of Kyles kills (the previous American record was 109), but it has declined to verify the astonishing total number for this book. Iraqi insurgents feared Kyle so much they named him al-Shaitan (“the devil”) and placed a bounty on his head. Kyle earned legendary status among his fellow SEALs, Marines, and U.S. Army soldiers, whom he protected with deadly accuracy from rooftops and stealth positions. Gripping and unforgettable, Kyle’s masterful account of his extraordinary battlefield experiences ranks as one of the great war memoirs of all time.

American Sniper: The Autobiography of The Most Lethal Sniper in US Military History by Chris Kyle

I received this book for my review only with no monetary interest provided by William Morrow, a division of Harper Collins Publishers for my written expressed review.

American Sniper is one story of just one man who had an incredible journey during the war in Iraq/Afghanistan. While I am so honored and proud of Chris Kyle defending not only Americans in Iraq and the surrounding areas, but other military members as well. I can’t help but read between the pages to see see his wife struggling to raise their first child by herself. With Chris contemplating a second tour and re-enlisting for another 4-5 years of being deployed back to Iraq, his Wife is left with a feeling of loss and anger towards her husband for not putting his wife and family first. Chris has done some amazing things by being a SEAL! Things that many of us Americans could not even fathom having to deal with. Chris has my utmost respect and admiration for helping to protect the American ideals that make our country great. What I don’t particularly like is how he put his country over his wife and children when coming up on his 2nd tour. With a wife and child at home and another on the way, he decides to re-enlist for another dangerous deployment that could end his life and leave his wife without a husband and his children without a father.

I have to take the side of his wife after his first tour that he should not have re-enlisted to be with his wife and family. He served his country with honor and saved many lives, while at the same time killing so many terrorists that threatened any type of life in Iraq. After his first tour however, he was plagued by thoughts of not being their for his fellow soldiers that he forgot the most important rule in life. To be a loving father and husband, for that is what is truly will be remembered by the ones you love and whom you will depend on in life. Yes he has many memories as a sniper and has remained very close to other SEAL’s throughout his life, but it is his wife and children that will make him the man that he is.

I would rate this book a 3 out of 5 stars. I would rate this book higher, but I felt that his patriotism truly leads his life over his family. God, family, country is how it should be. Thank you Chris Kyle for your service and your pride for America. Now take the time to have a happy and fulfilling relationship with your wife and children. God Bless you!

Thunder in the Morning Calm

Gunner will get answers. Or he will die trying.

Lieutenant Commander "Gunner" McCormick is assigned as an intelligence officer to Carrier Strike Force 10 - deployed to the Yellow Sea at the invitation of South Korea for joint exercises with the US Navy. During his pre-deployment briefing, he discovers a TOP-SECRET MEMO revealing rumors that the North Koreans may still be holding a handful of elderly Americans from the Korean War in secret prison camps.

As it happens, Gunner's grandfather, who was a young Marine officer in the Korean War, disappeared at Chosin Reservoir over sixty years ago and is still listed as MIA in North Korea. Sworn to silence about what he has read, the top-secret memo eats at him. Gunner decides to spend all his inheritance and break every military regulation in the book to finance his own three-man commando squad on a suicide mission north of the DMZ to search for clues about the fate of his grandfather. Risking his career, his fortune, and his life, Gunner will get his answers, or he will die trying.

My Review:

I received Thunder In the Morning Calm by Don Brown compliments of Christian Fiction Blog Alliance for my honest review and I was not disappointed. After reading The Malacca Conspiracy, I knew I had to read this one as well. Don Brown's writing style is designed to capture you within the first chapter and from then on, he guarantees to keep you glued to the book until you finish the final page. Believing that there are still missing MIA's that are unaccounted for, I couldn't wait to get my hands on this book and see how it turns out.

From the time, Gunner reads a small blurb outlined in a top-secret memo that it may or may not be true about MIA's still being held in North Korea in prison camps and that one of them may just be his missing grandfather, he takes a chance to fund a risky search and rescue mission. Relying on retired US Army Lt Colonel Jack Davenport "Jackrabbit" and retired Colonel Jung-Hoon Sohn of the Army of the Republic of Korea to help him locate the prison camps, Gunner is prepared to save any American being held there even if it turns out its not his grandfather.

Where this journey will lead them will completely alter the lives of everyone involved and bring about an unexpected ending. I award this novel a perfect 5 out of 5 stars and can't wait to keep adding more novels by Don Brown to my library. If you love military, black ops, rescue stories, then this one will not disappoint but make you a fan for life!

Here's even more great information on the book, the author and where to pick up a copy of this book.

Thunder In The Morning Calm by Don Brown

You can find him on Facebook as well by clicking here!