Lone Witness by Rachel Dylan from Bethany House Publishing

My thoughts:  Author Rachel Dylan takes the reader behind the scenes of two trials totally unconnected. The witness for one is a member of the Atlanta legal prosecutory team and who is concurrently prosecuting another banking case. Her roll in both cases the one for which she is the Lone Witness and the other for which she is the lead prosecutor will keep the reader on the edge of his or her seat as they read.

As events unfold, it becomes startlingly clear that Sophie's life is in danger. There is not just a threat with which to be concerned there are actual moves against her that drastically endanger her very being.

Sophie's father secures a body guard to protect her - one of the perks of coming from a monied family; but even though he is a top notch protector, danger still finds Sophie.

The dramatic conclusion of this story had me totally surprised. The story has a sweet romance. This work of fiction sits squarely in the Christian fiction world yet doesn't "preach" to the reader. I enjoyed this book and look forward to more of Rachel Dylan's work.

About the book: When prosecutor Sophie Dawson is the lone witness to a gang-related double homicide, her world is turned upside down. Private security guard Cooper Knight is hired to protect Sophie from the gang, but she's more concerned about prosecuting her latest case than the threat to her life. Sophie wants to stand for what's right, but can Cooper keep her safe?

DISCLOSURE: I received a complimentary copy from Bethany House Publishing as part of the book review program to facilitate this review. Opinions are my own and are freely given.

Jashe Big Girls Cotton & Spandex Summer Nightgown for Tween Girls [#sponsored Review]

My thoughts: These two nightgowns are of a thin, lightweight material that is very soft and has a good "hand." With the 95% cotton 5% spandex blend, it should wear well and be very comfortable with just enough stretch. The graphic print of flowers and plants is different from that which one would expect for a young girl's nightie, and it is definitely a refreshing change for the tween girl from the usual dots, lines, bears, etc. I think my grand-girls will thoroughly enjoy these two lovely nightgowns and sleep super comfortably in them.

I have the two gowns with sleeves (no seam, raglan sleeves) but the company also makes sleeveless gowns that are very similar.

Find it on Amazon - Click Here

Product information (from Jashe)

• Fabric: 95% Colored Cotton + 5% Spandex
• Package: 2 girls' nightgowns (pink& blue)
• Feature: Printed pot plants graphics
• A-line style; Crew neck; Short Sleeves; above knee; exclusive for tween girls.
• This nightdress is breathable, heat resistant, skin-friendly & super comfortable.
• Good quality & Soft rounded hem; Give your lovely the best! 

DISCLOSURE: I was provided these two nightgowns as complimentary products to facilitate an evaluation and review. Opinions are my own and based on suitability for a member of my family who will use them. I may have received compensation to review the product but my opinions are solely my own. #sponsored #ad

The Ultimate Book of Sharks by Brian Skerry from National Geographic Kids [Review & Giveaway]

My thoughts:  It's summer and folks are enjoying the fun and joy of swimming in the oceans that line the coasts of the United States. A joyful time! Refreshing! Worth remembering! But also worth remembering is the fact the the oceans of the world are inhabited by a vast array of creatures that make the waters their home. Man is not a water creature but man (that includes boys, girls, men and women of all ages) certainly enjoys making it their playground and a source of their food supply.

Within the depths and often in the shallows are the mighty sharks! They are most often ferocious and should always be respected and avoided as we people frolic amidst the waves of beautiful ocean waters.

In The Ultimate Book of Sharks the author and National Geographic explore the enormous variety of shark creatures, where they abide around the world, the danger to man, shark's  preferred foods (they are creatures of prey), and the very fact that they do need protecting. I personally ate shark (a small shark caught off the coast of North Carolina) and the meat is delicious. I am, sadly, allergic to it and certainly won't partake again. However, environmentalists encourage us not to fish for sharks but to protect them. This book addresses that subject as well as showing the pletora of types of sharks.

I found the book and the photography fascinating. In keeping with National Geographic's reputation for excellent subject matter and photography, this book is excellent; and it is definitely one I can highly recommend for personal libraries if the subject matter interests you, and most definitely for hool and public libraries.

About the book: Dive into the wild world of sharks! Get up close to learn the truth behind these fantastic, ferocious fish with famed National Geographic photographer and explorer Brian Skerry.

Join this amazing underwater adventure to track the sharks of the world, from the teeniest dogfish to the everfeared great white. This ultimate book features every species of shark on the planet, with awesome photos, fascinating facts, the latest science, and firsthand stories of real-life encounters with these incredible creatures. Learn how sharks live, how they eat, the challenges they face, and whether or not you are actually on the menu!

GIVEAWAY

Begins July 5

Ends July 27 @ 12:01 a.m. EDT

Open to USA addresses only.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

DISCLOSURE: I received a complimentary copy from MMPublicity on behalf of National Geographic Kids Publications to facilitate this review. Opinions are my own and I was not required to render a positive review. Giveaway copy is provided by publisher and sent directly to the winner.

The Golden Glow by Benjamin Flouw from Tundra of Penguin Random House Publishing

ISBN: 978075264120
US $17.99 - CA $21.00

The Golden Glow is an adventure of an outdoors loving Fox that rivals John Muir and others. True, this is a children's picture book story of a Fox's adventure seeking an elusive blossom to place in his personal book of botanical drawings. But it is much more. It is a story of accomplishment and the sense of fulfillment one gains from enduring until a goal is attained.

The story is quietly and gently told in lovely prose that walks with Fox as he engages friends along the trail in his adventure to find the elusive blossom. He sees, too, his friends in the already discovered trees and flowers that populate the forests and trails.

While the illustrations are a somewhat abstract art form done using straight lines and angles, the  animals, trees, and flowers are identifiable. The colors are lovely and as Fox goes through this adventure shades lighten and begin to glow. A lovely blending of story and illustration that compliment each other.

I see this as a story of personal accomplishment and the "glow" one feels once he has met a goal or reached the height of a job well done. The Golden Glow allows for children to begin to appreciate the beauty and resources of the great out of doors as well as one's own inner sense of seeking out to reach an elusive goal.

Beautiful book.

DISCLOSURE: I won a copy of this book on LibraryThing.com Early Reviewers program. A review is freely given and solely of  my own opinions.

Neocell Berry Beauty Chews provide nutrients for skin, hair, and nails and Joint Bursts with Tumeric helps joints [#sponsored Review & Giveaway]

What are you chewing on now?

Around Vera's home, we're in the throes of the aches and pains that ladies and gentlemen of-a-certain-age (and beyond) experience and to top it all off, my husband of many, many years is in the midst of an acute L2 compression fracture. A "fix" is in the works. But wouldn't it be great if a "fix" could be avoided?

Growing up poor during the depression years and having so little to eat plus in late life experiencing chemo and radiation treatments for cancer, his bones have taken a beating. What density and strength his bones had (and his growing up diet was really lacking) was zapped with all the chemicals and radiation to get rid of the cancer.

Today, so much more is known about nutrition and there is such a plethora of supplements to be had. Neocell has such a great collection of products and they've been around for a good number of years so they are dependable.

Today we're looking at a new "Hair, Skin, & Nails Beauty Chew" that they have as well as their tried and true Joint Bursts. Both have excellent flavor (you'll be tempted to eat more than your one-a-day of these good for you treats).

Rosy-purple for the berry flavored Hair, Skin, & Nails Neocell Chews.
Sunny golden yellow for the Joint Bursts Chews with Tumeric from Neocell.
We love our chews!

Joint Bursts with Turmeric Curcumin Tropical Tang 

My thoughts: This product contains collagen and also tumeric. I had heard that turmeric was being touted as a seasoning that had health benefits - primarily joint health. And I had wondered about trying to figure out a way to consume some to see if it would help me. Then along came Neocell with Joint Bursts. These are little "chews" that are nicely flavored and a pleasure to take. I find them easy and delicious to chew and I am hoping to benefit from this soon.

The flavor of the Joint Burst chews is Tropical Tang and is very pleasant - not a chore at all to use. That's a plus.

Product information: NeoCell Join Bursts combine Collagen Type 2, Turmeric, and Hyaluronic Acid in a soft chew that is bursting with juicy tropical fruit flavor for targeted joint support. *

• Collagen Type 2 is the main structural protein of joint cartilage and is what provides strength and cushioning in joints. 
• Hyaluronic Acid is the primary component of synovial fluid which lubricates the joints. 
• Turmeric is shown to promote healthy inflammatory response. * 

These three powerhouse ingredients work synergistically to support flexibility, mobility and comfort. Chew on this and take a comfortable step in the right direction. *

Ingredients: 

• Collagen Type 2: Joint specific collagen that contains key components to support and maintain healthy joint function.
• Hyaluronic Acid: Is found in virtually every tissue of the body and is an essential component of joint fluidity. Hyaluronic Acid is the primamry component of synovial fluid which lubricates the joints.
• Turmeric: Is shown to promote healthy inflammatory response. Giving your joints the fluidity and lubrication they need has never been so easy- or so delicious.

Neocell, Hair, Skin, and Nails Beauty Chews, Berry Medley, 30 Soft Chews

My thoughts: The Neocell Hair, Skin, & Nails Beauty Chews is brand new in Neocell's collection of health and beauty supplements. I've previously used their single berry chew which was delicious and provided a slew of benefits. This new product incorporates the wonders of a variety of berries and heaping on the Biotin to build strong nails, help your skin get a radiant glow, and have healthy hair.

I just love Neocell's chews as they provide a fun way for me to get some vitamins and help myself to be as nice looking and healthy as possible.


Product Information: Feeling beautiful and healthy has never been so easy as it is now with NeoCell Hair, Skin & Nails Beauty Chews. These potent chews deliver beauty nutrients in a delicious soft chew bursting with natural berry flavors and are perfect for those who have trouble swallowing pills. Research suggests that the right nutrients can have a major impact on hair, skin and nail health.

Ingredients:

• 5,000 mcg Biotin - Supports healthy, luxurious hair & promotes natural energy
• BioActive NeoCell Collagen - Lab tested for potency & purity
• Hyaluronic Acid - Essential component for skin rehydration
• Vitamin C - Supports collagen formation in the skin Antioxidant support against free radicals
• Other Ingredients - Dried cane syrup, rice syrup, maltodextrin, natural flavors, sunflower lecithin, sunflower oil, malic acid, citric acid, glycerin, fruit and vegetable juice for color, citrus bioflavonoid, and stevia (Reb A).

`~`~` GIVEAWAY `~`~`

Neocell has graciously provided one of each of these products for one of Chat With Vera's  readers to win.

Begins July 3

Ends July 26 @ 12:01 a.m. EDT

Open to USA addresses only.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

DISCLOSURE: I was provided complimentary products to facilitate this #sponsored review. Opinions are my own and I have used these products. I give my opinions without cooercion to render a positive review. This review of over-the-count supplements does not constitute any type of medical or nutritional professional experience or authority. I recommend these only as a consumer who has used the product. Winner's prize is provided by Neocell.

Trustech Remote Table Fan - 12 Inch Portable Floor Fan with 3 Speeds & Automatic Shutoff Timer, Powerful or Breeze Modes [#sponsored]

My thoughts: This is a terrific fan. It is quiet, lightweight, and has great features. You can control it either via buttons on the fan or with the small remote. Ideal for when you're sitting around and the fan is across the room. Extra specially ideal to have the remote for folks who have restricted movement. With the remote, they can easily control the fan to adjust air flow and cooling to where they are most comfortable.

Great for handicapped, seniors at home, senior centers. Also, even in this time when almost everything is equipped with central air conditioning, you have moments when you need a fan! The "air is out" - you need a fan. To move the "air conditioned air" so it feels better to you and so that you don't have to turn the thermostat lower and lower - you need a fan. Moving air is definitely more refreshing than non-moving air conditioned air.

Dorm rooms? They need fans and this is an excellent choice.

I can hardily recommend this fan.

Find it on Amazon - http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07C2P2HDQ And with Amazon Prime, it ships free.

Product information (from Trustech): Powerful Air Circulation 

The 12 inch box fan is able to provide powerful cooling. The efficient motor and five blades enable air to move effectively and keep space well-ventilated. The combination of powerful motor and blades enhances cooling relief in large living or working areas. Our box fan is one of the most effective fans at overcoming summer heat or simply refreshing rooms. Deliver More Convenience To You This desk fan is fully assembled with a remote control and electronic push-buttons.

It allows you to control time and power levels from far away. You can engage the 12-hour timer, all air speed settings and breeze modes without leaving the comfort of your chair or bed. Extended-range remote control and fan controls of this box fan can be easily engaged and bring more convenience to your life.

3 Speed Levels 3 Breeze Modes The speed of our portable fan can be adjusted to 3 different level. There are 3 modes of wind. Natural wind mode delivers cool breeze and refreshing feeling to you. Gentle wind will be delivered quietly to you by sleeping mode. This cooling fan will provide you comfortable temperature for sleeping. Normal mode will deliver powerful stream of air continuously. Our table top fan is powered by a rotating grill for maximum cooling effectiveness. Your room can be cooled down efficiently.

Space Saving Design This portable box fan is a high quality and high performance power fan for home and office. The slim box design takes up less space than other power fans but still maintains high performance of offering relief from the hot weather. The smart and compact design allows it to be placed anywhere on the floor or on any flat surface. Trapezoidal shape of the body makes it stable and not easy to rollover. This box fan weights only around 5 lbs for easy moving or transporting.

DISCLOSURE: I was provided a complimentary product at no cost or highly discounted cost to facilitate this #sponsored review. Opinions are my own and are given without requirement for a positive review. I have used this product in my home and can verify its quality.

Gracieux Beauty 20% Vitamin C Facial Serum [#sponsored review]

Nicely packaged in pump bottle that preserves freshness and prevents cross contamination

My thoughts: The use and application of Gracieux Beauty 20% Vitamin C Facial Serum is much like that of other serums on the market. It is a clear liquid that is housed in a nice pump bottle. Only a small amount is needed to cover face, neck, and chest. I apply a bit more than most folks (I think), because I think the extra helps my skin as I gently but deeply massaging it into the skin. This serum has no discernible scent to me which is nice. It dries readily after application which is nice because you don't have to wait to apply moisturizer and makeup.

Hard to see in picture, but serum is clear and only a small amount is needed.

To me a serum is a base application in skin care and provides nutrients and hydration and then a bit of sealing in of the hydration. My pores appear smaller, the skin has a nice healthy and youthful glow, and other products go nicely atop the dried serum.

Back of box lists ingredients.
They are all #natural and #organic

I have used Gracieux Beauty 20% Vitamin C Serum twice daily for a week. I have not noticed any adverse effect to my skin. I have seen positive results. Long term use can most likely provide protection against the visible affect of aging that come with the normal aging process. There is no magic potion that stops the aging process of one's skin. There is a way to help slow the signs of aging and that is to protect your skin from sun and wind, hydrate your body and your skin, lubricate your skin with moisturizers, and nurture your skin with products like this Vitamin C serum.

I can hardily recommend it.

Find it:  https://gracieuxbeauty.com 

Purchase it and take a discount! 

Use Discount code s10off for $10 off 1 Gracieux Beauty 20% Vitamin C Facial Serum

About the product (from Gracieux): 

• Ingredients: Stable Vitamin C, Hyaluronic Acid, and fortifying MSM
• Action: powerful and effective treatment for dullness, hyperpigmentation, dehydration, and exfoliation.
• Goal: smoother, more vibrant skin; rebuild elasticity, retain hydration, and promote healthy collagen production; reverse age-related damage to skin 

DISCLOSURE: This is a #sponsored review meaning I either received a complimentary or highly discounted product or was monetarily compensated to review this product. All opinions are my own and only given after personal use of the product and I was not required to render a positive review.