Did I mention that I like a little food with my murder?

I do love a good murder mystery, and when you throw a few tasty treats into the mix... well I am well satisfied. So my most recent read had both intrigue and yummy goodness. A Pie to Die for: A Bakery Detectives Cozy Mystery by Stacy Alabaster had just enough pastry action to balance out the bitter taste of murder. When the lead character and sole-propieter of Rachael's Boutique Bakery finds that she is a suspect in the murder of a local food blogger, she whips up a recipe to clear her name. Her roommate Pippa and a sexy detective provide all the ingredients necessary to make this book interesting. With well written characters and fun storylines, Alabaster has shown us that cozy mysteries can be a great distraction from the heavy world of murder. This story is wrapped up nicely, as expected and gives us hints about more exciting and yummy mysteries to come. I recommend this book for anyone who is just jumping into reading, or for seasoned readers looking to take a break from your usual genre'. Check back often for more reviews and be sure to share my blog with all your reader friends! Until next time, happy reading, Amy

Fiction or Non-Fiction that is the question

I am often asked whether I prefer fiction or Non-Fiction when I am choosing books to read. Well that choice becomes easier the older I get. The answer these days is a resounding Fiction! I am all for history and how if we don't learn from it we are doomed to repeat it..or something like that, but I just cannot imagine having to go through my life without the many lives I have lived through books. Before you start with all the talk about how I could just as easily have lived these lives by reading stories from history, let me just say..you go right ahead with that. I understand it is possible, however I choose to live a life of fantasy. Everything does not need to be logical in my world. I prefer to think outside the story. Some of my favorite authors are the ones who hit me with the plot twist that I did not see coming. I love that moment when my hand flies to my wide open mouth in total shock. What I love even more is when I throw down the book, walk away, realize I have to know what happens next, and dive back into the story. Yes, fiction is my go-to and I am not at all ashamed. So I am throwing this question out to all of you..what do you prefer? Fiction or Non-Fiction?

What are your Preferences?

What are your favorites? I get asked this question a lot concerning my reading preferences. The answer is difficult because I don't really have one genre or one author that I hold as exclusive. My reading, much like my music preferences, is across the board. I will admit that over the last few years I have come to love my Indie Authors. These are some of the hardest working people I have met. Their love of writing and their ability to bring those words to life have given me a whole new appreciation for what I read. I have always had a love of the classics and have read more books on the Titanic than most normal people have read total books..lol. I also love Jane Austen and as much as I know that sounds so cliche' I cannot help myself. It is who I am.
So, I suppose I should at least list some of my favorite Authors and even some of my favorite books. This will give you an idea of just how crazy my reading list can be.
Authors and Books I love:
Silla Webb- Her series beginning with "Covered In Coal" really spoke to me, not only because I am from the heart of Coal Country, but because her characters are real.
Harper Sloan- Her Corps Security series beginning with "Axel" were nothing short of spectacular and were, for lack of a better term...HOT!
Hilary Storm- Her Rebel Walking series was well written and really had me turning those pages. Her characters were relatable and this is another author that writes those HOT alpha males we all love to read about!
J.D. Robb- The In Death series is one I happened upon by accident and have completely fallen in love with. The suspense is outstanding, the characters feel as if you know them, and the reality with which the horror is incorporated with make you double check your closets and under your bed before going to sleep each night.
Leighann Dobbs- Her book "Killer Cupcakes" was both funny and entertaining. It always helps to talk to me about food while we are trying to solve a murder!
Okay, so now you see I am a little crazy in my reading but I love it! And a special shout out to my good friend Nikki Frye for leaving me the lovely gift of books on my desk this morning. I will be getting started soon, so look for those reviews!!!
Until next time,
Amy

Welcome to my blog!

Hi Everyone,
Welcome to the initial post to my new book review blog "I Read To Fill Up ". Thank you in advance to anyone who follows me, reads my book reviews, sends me a book to review, or just views this blog.
So, I suppose I should tell you a little bit about myself. I am a self-proclaimed book addict and lover of the written word. I have always had an affinity for reading, even at a young age. I am ready to begin this journey and I hope you will come along for the ride!
Your friendly blogger,
Amy