A Waltz with Traitors by A. L. Sowards

Title: A Waltz with Traitors
Author: A.L. Sowards
Publisher: Covenant Communications
ISBN: 978-1-524421120

“When Nadia takes refuge with the Czechoslovak Legion, the last thing she expects is an ally,” the back jacket states in A.L. Sowards’s novel, A Waltz with Traitors.

~ What ~
This three-hundred-and-twenty-eight-page advance reader copy targets those interested in romantic Christian historical fiction involving surviving the Great War in Russia. Topics of physical abuse, rape, murder, and death may not be appropriate for immature readers. While the beginning has two maps, a glossary, and historical background information, the ending includes an author’s note and her biography.

In this tale covering the former Russian Empire in 1918, twenty-year-old Nadia witnesses her aristocratic parents being executed and flees into the hands of Filip, a member of the Czechoslovak Legion, who promises his protection by arranging a sham marriage to her. As the two deal with multifaceted issues trying to stay alive during war, the brutality of the land and its people continually keep them apart.

~ Why ~
I love historical fiction where I learn something interesting, and this one covers the gambit of how the Czechs, Bolsheviks, Red and White Army, and Cheka agents operated while fighting for what they believed in. I appreciate the details of the trains on the rails and how love endured during incredible hardships. The tenderness between many characters and those they loved was well-written and believable.

~ Why Not ~
Those who do not have a personal relationship with Jesus Christ may not like this story of how God provides protection, even during wartime. Some may not like reading about the numerous battles and bloodshed or the horrible atrocities committed during war. A few may not understand the reason why so many heartlessly died for a country’s freedom. The Catholic references of God were limited.

~ Wish ~
It would have been thoughtful to include the eternal plan of salvation. Adding a list of characters and discussion questions may be helpful.

~ Want ~
If you don’t know much about the Czech Legion and their persistence to start their own country, this is an engaging read that includes an unlikely relationship of love and loyalty.

Thanks to the author, Covenant Communications, and Interviews & Reviews for this complimentary book. I am under no obligation to give a positive review.

#CovenantCommunications #InterviewsandReviews #Interviews&Reviews #ALSowards #AWaltzwithTraitors #CzechoslovakLegionHistoricalFiction

This book can be purchased at https://amzn.to/3n0wnCN

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Gugug Facial Skin Scrubber

ATOMIZING FACIAL SKIN

~ What ~
Made of ABS plastic and stainless steel, this electronic rechargeable device is for cleaning and massaging skin on the face. Measuring 6.8 by 1.7 by 0.5 inches, the multipurpose scrubber has 4 modes of cleaning, lifting, ion+, and ion. It comes with 2 silicone covers and a USB charger in a gift box with instructions, ready for using or giving.

~ Why ~
Paying for facial massages where your skin is cleansed, massaged, and pampered feels wonderful, but it can be spendy. I like how this handy and inexpensive product can be used regularly and easily. With the silicone covers, the brush works nicely for cleaning my face while the wavy side is for massaging. I like that one can use it for 3 to 5 minutes 2 to 3 times a week, and that it can be recharged with the added USB cable.

~ Why Not ~
Those who prefer using a washcloth with soap and water to wash their face may not want to use a machine to do it, but this unit may be better at deep cleaning and getting rid of blackheads. Some may not realize they need to use the unit with a moisturizer or water every time.

~ Wish ~
When using it for the first time, it is recommended to charge for 5 hours, which seems like a long time. I wish the vibrations were stronger.

~ Want ~
If you want a professional way to clean your face without spending a lot, this would be a good deal.

Thanks to Gugug for this product that I am under no obligation to review.

This product can be purchased at https://amzn.to/3mYhhOi

Peach Not Plastic Moisturizing Hand & Body Bar

PASSIONFRUIT BODY SOAP

~ What ~
This ample 4-ounce hand and body bar is for gently and effectively washing away bacteria on all skin types without using a plastic container. Containing enough soap that one would use with 66 bottled ounces of liquid cleanser, it has a raspberry scent. In a pink color, its first five ingredients are sodium palmate, sodium cocoate/sodium palm kernelate, water, glycerin, and natural fragrance; it also contains avocado oil, shea butter, and passion fruit seed oil. It has no parabens, phthalates, SLS, SLES, silicones, or synthetic colorants. Instructions on the box recommend lathering onto wet hands, body, or a loofah and massaging all over, then rinsing the skin.

~ Why ~
One of the best features of this soap is that it is made in the United States. I love its fruity scent that smells fresh and airy. I appreciate that it is designed to clean the skin while moisturizing it with avocado/passion fruit seed oils and shea butter. The bar is perfectly shaped to hold in the hand without slipping.

~ Why Not ~
Some may not like the scent as it is fruity, but it does not linger long after washing. Others may prefer liquid bath soaps instead of bars. Some may not like using glycerin on their skin.

~ Wish ~
Including a reusable holding container in the box would be thoughtful so it could be used for traveling.

~ Want ~
If you are looking for a sustainable bath soap that moisturizes while cleaning and has a raspberry scent, this would be a great choice, especially if you want to use something eco-friendly. I think a woman would prefer it over a man.

Thanks to Peach Not Plastic for this complimentary sample that I am freely evaluating.

#PeachNotPlastic #MoisturizingHandBodyBar #RasberryScentedHandandBodySoap

This product can be found at https://amzn.to/3JuZhCG

Cohiba Cigar Ashtray

CLASSIC ASHTRAY FOR CIGARS

~ What ~
Made of high-quality ceramic, this cigar ashtray in a classic modern triangular design measures 6.2 by 6.2 by 1.2 inches with 3 wide dips to hold cigars. The black lattice and cadmium orange bar are surrounded with gold as is the COHIBA logo on the tray’s base. The back of the item states Habonos s.a. exclusive design by Nelson Alfonso. It comes in a cellophane bag in a black gift box, ready for giving.

~ Why ~
If you are a cigar aficionado or know one, this is a trendy tray to hold your ash in one place. I like its clean and concise print lines in the lattice and gold accents. The 3 dips are wide but could also hold a cigarette. It is a solid item that does not wobble on a flat surface. The gift box is nicely padded so the tray should not chip or break in shipment.

~ Why Not ~
I do not smoke so have no clue about the quality of any type of ashtray, be it for cigars or cigarettes. Some may not like how large the tray is, but it should be able to amply hold a cigar or two. The colors may not match some decor, but it is also available in yellow.

~ Wish ~
It would help to include cleaning instructions as I wonder if it is dishwasher safe (online it mentions it is waterproof and heat resistant). Having more color options might be thoughtful.

~ Want ~
If you are looking for a unique gift for a cigar smoker, this would make him or her smile.

Thanks to JH& for this product that I am under no obligation to review.

This product can be purchased at https://amzn.to/3yv9Roj

The Vanishing at Castle Moreau by Jaime Jo Wright

Title: The Vanishing of Castle Moreau
Author: Jaime Jo Wright
Publisher: Bethany House
ISBN: 978-0-7642-3834-5

“… the dust of the old castle’s curse threatens to rise again, this time leaving no one alive to tell its sordid tale,” the back jacket states in Jaime Jo Wright’s novel, The Vanishing at Castle Moreau.

~ What ~
This three-hundred-and-eighty-four-page advance reader copy targets those interested in Christian mystery and suspense involving an old castle and disappearing women. With slang words such as darn and heck, topics of alcoholism, mental and physical abuse, and death may not be appropriate for immature readers. The ending includes an author’s note, ten discussion questions, acknowledgments, the author’s biography, and advertisements.

In this tale that is spread over one-hundred-and-fifty years, three women are involved in an old Wisconsin castle. There is Daisy, an orphan who has nowhere else to go so becomes a housekeeper for a Gothic authoress who seems eviler than the stories she writes. And decades later, there is Cleo, who drastically wants to hide her identity so agrees to help a wealthy aging hoarder at the same abode. And intertwined is a girl who grows up, only wanting to protect the skeletons of her past.

~ Why ~
I love fiction that jumps around in time and links the past with the present, especially if it involves the history of an old castle. The descriptions of the fear and angst some of the characters go through are well-written and believable. I appreciate that God was called upon and trusted when needed.

~ Why Not ~
Those who do not have a personal relationship with Jesus Christ may not like this story of how God provides protection, even when things appear differently than expected. Some may not like the lag between chapters as it is hard to remember the story as it jumps years. I would have marked the read lower due to the references to a phantom woman and spirit beings, but the ending redeems itself.

~ Wish ~
It would have been thoughtful to include the eternal plan of salvation. Since I only read Christian fiction, I prefer no slang words.

~ Want ~
If you like a mystery of an eerie old house that hides secrets within its walls as women go missing, this one will make you wonder what is real and what is not as you learn the truth about protecting others.

Thanks to Bethany House and Interviews & Reviews for this complimentary book. I am under no obligation to give a positive review.

#BethanyHouse #InterviewsandReviews #Interviews&Reviews #TheVanishingatCastleMoreau #ChristianMysterySuspense #OldWisconsinCastleMystery

This book can be purchased at https://amzn.to/3JbUQMS

Remember Me by Tracie Peterson

Title: Remember Me
Author: Tracie Peterson
Publisher: Bethany House
ISBN: 978-0-7642-3738-6

“There was always that one question that came to haunt her: If God controlled her fate, why hadn’t He kept her safe from the horrible things she endured,” Addie ponders in Tracie Peterson’s novel, Remember Me.

~ What ~
The first book in the Pictures of the Heart series, this two-hundred-and-ninety-three-page paperback targets those interested in a historical romance about a young woman dealing with her shameful past to find God. With no profanity, topics involving a brothel, physical abuse, and death may not be appropriate for immature readers. The ending has the author’s biography and advertisements.

Set in Seattle in 1909, twenty-six-year-old Addie has fled from her past tragedies living in the Yukon and is somewhat content training Camera Girls to operate and sell Brownie cameras at the Alaska-Yukon-Pacific Expo. Her past catches up to her when she encounters a man she previously promised herself to, and she is determined she is no longer worthy of his love.

~ Why ~
Since I live in the Pacific Northwest, I love learning about its history, especially when it involves Alaska and Seattle. I appreciate the tenderness the author uses in describing Addie’s experiences growing up and living in a brothel. The details about photography, the expo, and Pinkertons were interesting.

~ Why Not ~
Those who do not have a personal relationship with Jesus Christ may not like this story of how a broken woman must trust God and come to the realization that she is loved and forgiven for the past, including things she could not control. Others may not care for the fear and pain mental and physical abuse causes.

~ Wish ~
It may be helpful to include a map of Seattle and a list of characters in future books in the series.

~ Want ~
If you enjoy a read about remembering how God arranges true love, this first book in a historical series will want you yearning for more.

Thanks to Bethany House and Interviews & Reviews for this complimentary book. I am under no obligation to give a positive review.

#BethanyHouse #InterviewsandReviews #Interviews&Reviews #TraciePeterson #RememberMeHistoricalFiction #PicturesoftheHeartSeries #AlaskaYukonPacificExpoNovel

This book can be purchased at https://amzn.to/3ZWRQuQ

Three Way Cut 5 Gallon Food Storage Bags

KEEP BULK FOOD FRESH FOR A LONG TIME

~ What ~
This set contains 20 5-gallon Mylar food storage bags, 20 labels, and 20 oxygen absorption packets. Made out of Polyethylene Terephthalate, Aluminum, and Polyethylene, each bag has a thickness of 14 mil and includes a resealable zip closure, rounded edges, and a tear notch. The bag’s measurements are 17 by 26 inches when flat and can hold hot or cold foods for multiple years. Arriving in a clear cellophane bag with 2000-cc oxygen absorbers and smudge-free labels, also added are printed instructions.

~ Why ~
When I buy dog food, it is in a 30-pound bag that is not resealable, so having high-quality, thick storage bags that can hold an ample amount is needed. I like how these can be resealed and include the oxygen absorption packs. These are great for dry goods such as grains, coffee, cereals rice, flour, pasta, and nuts as well as dry fruits, milk, and pet food. They are easy to open and fill without too much spilling.

~ Why Not ~
Those who do not buy in bulk and want to keep food fresh longer may not have a need for this item. However, the company makes a set with several different-sized bags. Others may not like the small labels, but one could use a permanent marker and write directly on the bag.

~ Wish ~
I wish these were available in clear so one could see its contents, yet I would assume that then they would not keep the food as fresh.

~ Want ~
If you are looking for large 5-gallon storage bags that can be resealed and reused and come with oxygen absorbers, this is a great deal.

Thanks to Three Way Cut for this product that I am under no obligation to review.

#ThreeWayCut #5GalMylarBags #LargeStorageBags #KeepBulkFoodFresh

This product can be purchased at https://amzn.to/3ystkpA

Three Way Cut Black Out Curtain

KEEP THE LIGHT OUT!

~ What ~
This complete kit contains everything you need to easily cut to size and temporarily hang in a window a black curtain to block out light. Measuring 118 by 58 inches, the 3-layer 100% black-out polyester material is durable, waterproof, and UV protective. The package comes with the curtain, a fabric cutter, an acrylic paint marker, measuring tape, 10 suction cups with loop Velcro and hooks, 10 pairs of built-in adhesive disks, and a storage bag with instructions.

~ Why ~
Since our young grandchildren come to visit, it is imperative to have their bedroom dark for naptime and bedtime. I appreciate the solar reflective coating, its thermal insulation, and high-density polyester that will last over time. With everything include in the set, the curtain can be set up anywhere without additional tools and removed easily without damaging the window, window frame, or wall. Because the set uses Velcro and suction tabs, it is nice that there is strong adhesion without leaving any removal residue.

~ Why Not ~
Those who do not live where it stays lighter longer may not need this handy product. Others may think it is a hassle to set up, but the fabric could be cut to almost any size window from rectangle and square to round, arched, or custom.

~ Wish ~
I wish these were available in other colors like brown or gray to match a room’s decor, but it is not a deal breaker.

~ Want ~
If you are looking for a portable blackout curtain that is easy to install and remove, this one will keep the light out without being a hassle to use.

Thanks to Three Way Cut for this product that I am under no obligation to review.

#ThreeWayCut #BlackOutCurtians #KeeptheLightOut #MakeADarkRoom

This product can be purchased at https://amzn.to/3yoTfyr

Under Fire by Lynn H. Blackburn

Title: Under Fire
Author: Lynn H. Blackburn
Publisher: Revell
ISBN: 978-0-8007-3797-9

“This was dangerous. For both of them. They’d agreed on friendship, nothing more,” Zane and Tessa consider in Lynn H. Blackburn’s novel, Under Fire.

~ What ~
The third and final book in the Defend and Protect series, this three-hundred-and-fifty-page paperback targets those who like romantic suspense involving two U.S. Secret Service agents dealing with their relationship amidst presidential threats. With no profanity but topics of alcoholism, physical abuse, and death, it may not be appropriate for immature readers. The ending includes an excerpt from a novella by the author, her biography, and advertisements.

In this story, Special Agent Tessa Reed may be an expert liaison between the Raleigh USSS office and the president’s protective detail, but she has more fears and shortcomings forgiving herself of her past addiction. When her close friend, Zane, works with her and the team, they both struggle with what could be between them as they plan the president’s visit to a private estate. When Tessa gets several death threats, there is more to the crisis than her job that unknowingly involves her past.

~ Why ~
This fast read examines the tampered-down love two agents must deal with while keeping the president from harm. I liked the hovering, concern, and determination Zane showed in helping Tessa with her past and why they are important to both of them. Adding prayers to Jesus showed trust in the Almighty. Although it is the third book in the series and I have not read any of the others, it is a stand-alone read.

~ Why Not ~
Those who do not like a Christian-based story that centers on friendship, camaraderie, and love among a team of special agents may not like this series. Others may not care for the many characters intertwined in the previous books and revisited in this one, but they were not too confusing.

~ Wish ~
Since there are three books in the series, a list of characters would be helpful for readers. I wish all pronouns of God were capitalized for reverence.

~ Want ~
If you want to read about how the Secret Service works as a team to protect the U.S. president, this one is engaging as it fuels the flames of a romance between two caring friends who work together.

Thanks to Revell for this complimentary book. I am under no obligation to give a positive review.

#Revell #LynnHBlackburn #DefendandProtectSeries #UnderFire #RomanticSuspense

This book can be purchased at https://amzn.to/3ZC0xuR

ALDA Products Personal Air Cooler

EZ BREEZE PORTABLE MINI AIR CONDITIONER

~ What ~
Weighing under 2 pounds and measuring 6.5 by 5.7 by 6.5 inches, this electronic unit is for cooling one’s personal space for up to 12 hours. The quiet air fan has an on/off button, a 3-speed indicator, and a nightlight feature as well as an included USB adaptor. Instructions are included.

~ Why ~
We have a large tower air cooler and love it when the air gets too hot here in Oregon. I like that this one is smaller and portable, so we can put it on a table in our guest bedroom. The 3-speed fan blows more than I expected. Having a filter that can be put in the freezer helps make the air noticeably colder. It helps that it can be adapted to any USB connector including a portable battery pack. It is easy to add or empty water in its holding tank. Having the filter dishwasher safe is a plus.

~ Why Not ~
Some may not like or need to have a portable cooling unit, but they are handy to have on hand or use when someone gets overheated. Others may not like having to add water and prefer a hand-held fan but they usually do not have the cooling feature. A few may think it is noisy, yet I found it quieter than our regular non-evaporating oscillating fan.

~ Wish ~
It would nice if an electronic 2-prong plug were included. The USB cord is a little on the short side, but not a game changer.

~ Want ~
If you want to cool down and need a portable fan that uses water, this option may be a better choice than a hand-held battery-operated fan due to its more-advanced cooling capabilities.

Thanks to ALDA Products for this product that I am under no obligation to review.

#ALDAProducts #EZBreeze #PersonalAirCooler #PortableMiniAirConditioner

This product can be found at https://amzn.to/3y3jESd