Sunday, March 8, 2015

Words and Chocolate

My classes are off to a bumpy start, my students can smell summer around the corner, and my stress level is through the roof. Yet, two things that can always calm my frazzled nerves are a good book and some chocolate.

The chocolate lover's box from Vegan Cuts was phenomenal. My favorite products were Jen's Zen Chocolate Raspberry Spread and a Bixby Bar. This box did help me reach the conclusion that I do not like dark chocolate or anything matcha flavored.

The words flowed with books from Bethany House. Like a Flower in Bloom. This book by Siri Mitchell told the story of Charlotte Withersby who assisted her botanist father. Charlotte is more than just an assistant, she has become her father's lifeline, since the death of her mother. An assistant, by the name of Edward Trimble arrives just as Charlotte's father and uncle decided it is time she met a husband. Through a series of improbable events, Edward and Charlotte end up in love. Unfortunately, I enjoyed the Note from the Author about women, botany and the Opium War more than the actual book.The theological discussion about a woman's role a a help was fascinating and enlightening. The events of the story were unlikely and just seemed contrived, I will try other books by this author as I found the main idea engaging.

After enjoying Book 1 in the Canadian West Series by Janette Oke and Laurel Oke Logan I anxiously awaited book 2, "Where Trust Lies."I was sorely disappointed. The story follows Beth Thatcher and her family on a tour of Canada and the U.S. This story basically annoyed me as I never liked Julie, Beth's sister who was featured in this book. I preferred reading about Beth's trials and triumphs in the Canadian West. I am not giving up on this series though and see lots of room for development.

A free copy of both books was provided by Bethany House Publishers. The Vegan Cuts Chocolate Lover's Box was not free, but was worth every PENNY!