January 25, 2015 · 9:00 am

Still Writing: The Perils and Pleasures of a Creative Life

To someone just venturing into the creative life, the insights and experiences Ms. Shapiro shares in Still Writing: the Perils and Pleasures of a Creative Life were both informative and encouraging. Her honesty and openness regarding the downturns and perils, and her sheer joy at the pleasures of this life, along with her descriptions of the day-to-day process of writing made me feel less alone in my efforts. Her writing is raw and emotional, bringing the reader into her experiences. At times it felt like I was sitting with her, listening quietly over a cup of tea or a glass of wine. I truly appreciate Ms. Shapiro’s willingness to put her heart and soul in print so that we can learn from her journey.

A light Chardonnay or a cup of chamomile tea with a touch of honey would both complement this illuminating work by Ms. Shapiro.

Coming soon: Gone Girl and Game of Thrones

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January 17, 2015 · 8:39 am

Magic Breaks

The most recent release in the Kate Daniels series, Magic Breaks, offers more brilliant writing and imagination from the Ilona Andrews team. I fell in love with this series from the beginning and always not-so-patiently await the next release. Kate Daniels is strong, irreverent, resourceful, and fiercely loyal. She also gets to say and do things I could never get away with because I don’t carry a big sword. The post-shift world Kate lives in offers an endless array of magical creatures combined with both technical and magical challenges. Another plus—their twist on vampires and shapeshifters is both original and entertaining. This latest release continues Kate’s growth in maturity and power in an unexpected yet coherent way. Of course, it was great to have her and Curran working in tandem again, learning from their experiences in the previous book.

Considering the prevalence of shapeshifters, I would recommend the Sterling Vintner’s Collection Cabernet Sauvignon to accompany Kate’s most recent adventures.

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January 10, 2015 · 8:11 am

What Goes with The Beautiful Ashes? Two Angels

Jeaniene Frost’s The Beautiful Ashes is the first in her new Broken Destiny series. Her use of biblical mythology is unique and interesting, her world-building creative and clear. Unlike her Night Huntress series, this new series feels like the target audience is a tad younger than I am, in part because the heroine, Ivy, is 20 years old and her maturity level is in line with her age. It could be that Ms. Frost intends for Ivy to mature with the series and I enjoyed it enough to see how the characters and the story progress when the second book is released. This would be a great read to share with a daughter, niece, or younger sister.

If you’re of age, Two Angels Petite Syrah would go well with The Beautiful Ashes. Though any syrah would work, this one is smooth with a little spice, and its angels complement the archons who play a significant role in this novel by both complicating Ivy’s life and saving it.

If you’re not of age, based on Ivy’s experiences, I’d recommend a virgin Bloody Mary. Start with spicy V8 Juice, then add a little worcestershire sauce, celery salt, and a sprinkle of pepper. Be sure to salt the rim and just add some Tabasco for even more spice.

Happy reading!

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January 3, 2015 · 9:46 am

The Athena Project and Coppola Chardonnay make a fine pairing

The Athena Project is non-stop from beginning to end. Classic Brad Thor, but with 4 brilliant, tough, female characters and guest appearances from Scot Harvath. In a world that is still painfully short on strong women in fiction both in print and onscreen, I thoroughly enjoyed escaping to one where women are given the same respect and yes, dangerous responsibilities as men. Further, qualities that are unique to them as women are considered tools in their arsenal and used without reservation as weapons on their missions. Thank you Brad Thor, for these courageous, brilliant, tough women. I can’t wait to see them on the big screen!

Most people like to pair wine with food. I enjoy pairing it with a good book. This one would go well with a good Chardonnay, and since it will soon (but not soon enough) be in the theaters, I’d recommend the Coppola. Happy reading!

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December 31, 2014 · 5:49 am

For the love of books…and wine

I’ve been an avid reader for as long as I can remember. When I was a child, Nancy Drew kept me company over one long summer, and I was hooked. Fortunately, we lived across the street from a library and I had an endless supply of books to support my new habit. In modern times, a library is never further away than wifi or a smartphone. Personally, I like the feel of a book and never leave the house without one stashed in my purse, briefcase, or backpack. My favorite pastime is to curl up with a good book and a glass of wine. This blog is intended for anyone who shares those passions.

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