Saturday, September 28, 2013

Entertaining and wonderful read!



Dan Jones has made the Plantagenet dynasty come alive. Insightful and full of interesting facts, he paints vivid pictures of each of the monarch's regimes. The personalities pop off the pages and he takes the reader though the main issues of the time creating a very readable history of the Plantagenet kings of England. I especially liked reading about the challenging circumstances and the highs and lows of each of the subjects. The chapters where short and to the point. A great book to take your time and savor.

Happy Reading!
Carole P. Roman

Friday, September 27, 2013

Where there's smoke...



Interesting take on the infamous Borgia family, that tries to present them in a more innocent light. Easy, and interesting read, it delves into the politics of the times and describes all the key players. While, I do agree with many of his theories and we know that history is written by the victors, where's there's smoke, I'm pretty sure there is fire. G.J.. Meyer gives compelling theories of his arguments, that the family myths were written by unforgiving voices of the Renaissance, I think Cesare Borgia was indeed a "prince" of his time, and had the protection of the pope that was more than just an "uncle". I can understand where the stories of incest were born and I do agree with him on Lucretia. Used at a pawn, married wherever and whenever it pleased politics, she ended up a respectable matron that set an example for her community. Cesare Borgia, ruthlessness, in my mind, cannot be explained away. While I believe the sensational soap operas created by the television series are nothing but fiction, I can't completely buy all of Meyer's ideas. I somehow think the truth lies somewhere between the two.

Happy Reading! 
Carole P. Roman

Tuesday, September 24, 2013

If You Were Me and Lived In...

Since I have a love of exploration and great interest of people and things around the world. I began writing my new series of "If You Were Me and Lived In..."
My first book featuring Mexico won me the Pinnacle Award for Best Children's non-fiction in 2012.
I have since followed up with South Korea, France and now, Norway.  Other countries will be out pretty soon.
I am very appreciative of everyone who reads, reviews and leaves comments on all of my books.  I thought that I would share some of the reviews from Amazon about the cultural books.

Again, thank you.
~Carole P. Roman




If You Were Me and Lived In... Mexico
"In the current world of globalization most of the children currently in elementary school will at some time have to deal with colleagues, co-workers or neighbors that are of foreign origin. It is common courtesy and a social lubricant if the child has some understanding of the country of origin. This knowledge of cultural background provides an additional point of mutual understanding and improves the level of discourse." ~Charles A.

"This book is a wonderful look at life in Mexico. It introduces Spanish and traditions of the Mexican people. It's the perfect way to introduce other countries and cultures to children. It's simply written and easy to understand. Many children will be able to read this and understand the traditions from Mexico from other shows. ~Kissablysweetone

"If You Were Me and Lived in Mexico by Carole P. Roman is part of a series of books to introduce children to different cultures around the world. It is a nice way to establish an understanding of children who may look different but are the same in many ways. The book explains common names, terms for parents, coins, and a variety of other daily activities in which children are interested." ~tmtrvlr


If You Were Me and Lived In...France
"For homeschoolers (us) or anyone this is a wonderful idea. I had been struggling with getting my son to understand that there are real people just like us all over the world. These books help give the child some perspective on that concept. This was just a wonderful idea for a book series. They are fairly short and sweet, appropriate for a short intro to a culture or country for older children or a sit down read aloud experience for younger." ~Kay Z.

"I really love stories that teach my kids something, whether it be facts or life lessons. This is a great series for teaching your children about life in other countries. They are able to learn a few things about what people live like in France and how it's different from or similar to the way they live. This book would be wonderful if you are teaching your kids about France or other cultures. The illustrations are bold an colorful. I really enjoy these books and so do my kids." ~SchneiderMommy

"When my children were growing up, the study of geography was sadly lacking in the school classroom, so I did a bit with them at home. We used a World globe to learn location and sizes of countries and how to identify the continents on which each were located. We also intensely read the National Geographic magazines (kept the old copies for extended reference and learning) and studied the accompanying maps. Ms. Roman's new books are a step in the right direction for young children to immerse themselves with geography, customs, and beginning language." ~Vera

If You Were Me and Lived In...South Korea
"This is the perfect young person's introduction to a new culture. Plenty of information in here was new to me--even though I have a brother who lived in South Korea for a couple of years. Everything is presented in a familiar context, so that any differences seem interesting rather than weird or scary. It shows Seoul with a familiar skyline of skyscrapers, but it also states people have lived there for 2,000 years. It shows children dressed in jeans and T-shirts going out to play with their parents, buying toys with money, going to school. They dress up in more traditional Korean clothing to eat out at a restaurant, visit with grandparents, or celebrate a holiday. These are all activities young people are familiar with, so it's a simple matter to learn the small differences in the names for things, the history of the place, or the types of foods eaten." ~Randy-Lynne

"It is important for every child to gain exposure to various cultures. This book provides a creative learning aid that is developed specially for children Pre-K to 8-years old, but has proven insightful for people of all ages. If You Were Me And Lived In... South Korea... educates the mind and dispels certain biases that stem from ignorance. It teaches children that there is an entire world out there, unknown to a vast degree, but, thanks to Roman, a bit easier to understand." ~Gigi

"I have been reading across the blogosphere laments about the lack of diversity in children's picture books, so it was quite opportunistic when I came across the new educational picture book series, If You Were Me and Lived in ... by Carole P. Roman. I have had the pleasure of reading one of the books in the series, If You Were Me and Lived in ... South Korea, but there are two other books in the series (Mexico and France). I must admit that almost all of the information contained in the book was completely new to me, so I can say without reservation that parents are just as likely as their children to learn something about different cultures through these books." ~Mother/Daughter Book Reviews

If You Were Me and Lived In...Norway
"To make her journey to Norway complete Roman includes a pronunciation guide at books end so that he youngsters will be able to speak a bit of Norwegian correctly! Always a delight to read and enjoy the great illustrations, this book should go on your shelf along with the past books and those that are due to some down the pike! This is the best introduction to geography and cultural sociology available." ~ Grady H.

"I really like how fun and exciting that she has made learning about other countries! My oldest enjoys reading books like these and we always spend time talking about the country, trying to pronounce the words that are included in the book, and we always do more research about each country." ~Momma Frugal

"I would really love to own the whole book series!! Illustrations are beautiful and they make the book come alive!! " ~Mfabian

Saturday, September 21, 2013

Free Downloads Today!


A child's imaginative journey on his pirate ship with his four trusty companions. Reviews for Captain No Beard "Roman charms with an imaginative, whimsical picture book that will entertain even the oldest pirates." - Kirkus "My kids loved shouting “Shiver Me Timbers” and “Swab the Deck” along with the crew. The story of Captain No Beard and his crew is exciting, engaging and lots of fun! The bold, colorful pictures enhance the experience of the pirate adventure that Roman takes you on from the moment you begin reading until the very end of the story." - sippycupmom.com "The illustration in the book is just as fun with vibrant colors, lovable characters and a world of imagination. It’s easy for kiddos to engage their imagination and become part of this fun story from beginning to end." - mommysmemorandum.com "lovely intonation when read aloud, and the simple, understandable story also carries a more complex, clever subtext that will allow for educational discussions; hilarious and a pleasant opportunity to teach children about the nuances of words and their layers of meaning; the characters take great delight upon using the phrases correctly; children will, too." - Kirkus


The crew of the Flying Dragon are sailing again. This time, new crew member, Pepper Parrot is having a hard time keeping up with the drills. Captain No Beard and his mates join together to help Pepper achieve her goals with patience and tolerance.




Hallie and her mother go to the yoga studio. Hallie wants to join her mom's yoga class, but she isn't allowed. She complains to the babysitter, who gently guides her through four yoga poses. Hallie learns that not only is yoga easy, but fun as well.



"If You Were Me and Lived in...France-A Child's Introduction to Culture Around the World" is the second book in Carole P. Roman's remarkable series about countries all over the globe. With each book covering a different nation, Roman opens up a world of wonder while highlighting the fact that underneath it all we are far more alike than we might have imagined. Focusing on what life would be like from a child's viewpoint, she examines the diversity of the people who make up our planet.

Wednesday, September 18, 2013

Talk Like A Pirate GIVEAWAY!



Let's celebrate Talk Like A Pirate Day!

Ahoy Me Mateys and all you Landlubbers! In these parts it is "Talk Like A Pirate Day" (September 19th) and Captain No Beard  is celebrating!

Shiver me timbers! The Captain has found the motherload box full of some things that only the best pirates would love to have. Look at this pirate booty!



*Popcorn Popper on Cart
*Movie Theater Popcorn
*Captain No Beard Series of Books (4 total)
Approximate value $350

Aye, you can win all of these fine treasures when you enter in the Rafflecopter below. Arr!


Code of Conduct aka disclosure:
This giveaway is sponsored by Author, Carole P. Roman who is providing all prizes to one winner.
The blogs hosting, co-hosting are not responsible for prize shipment.
The giveaway begins at 12AM MST on Sept. 19, 2013 and ends at 12AM MST on Oct. 4, 2013.
Open to US Only.
This giveaway is in no way affiliated with Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, YouTube or any other social media outlet.
Winner must respond to an email sent within 48 hours or an alternate winner will be drawn.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

This giveaway is hosted by Away We Go Media. Please contact if you have social media needs.

Monday, September 16, 2013

September is National Yoga Month

Kayla is the creator of a wonderful blog called The Eclectic Element. She recently reviewed one of my books ("I want to do yoga, too") and I loved it so much, I wanted to share it with you! Please stop by and visit Kayla's blog. She has a lot of great reviews on her site!


"Since September is National Yoga Month, I find this book to be a very appropriate book to be able to review!

In my opinion, the best part about practicing yoga aside from it's natural and abundant mental, physical, and spiritual benefits is the fact that regardless of who you are-man or woman, thin or overweight, young or old-you can tailor a practice just for you and learn at your and your body's own pace.

That's why I feel introducing yoga to children at a young age can be a tremendous step to their healthy futures, especially if they have teachers that can make it fun and enjoyable like Robin did for Hallie in this book.

I have a sneaking suspicion that, through her well written, easy to read book, Carole P. Roman not only introduced the concept of yoga to children, but made it sound fun with the four introductory poses she details and like something they should try!"


Thank you Kayla for the wonderful review of my book!


Happy Reading!
Carole P. Roman

Saturday, September 14, 2013

It was like going to a fan club meeting

Deborah Jaffe writes with an easy, breezy, chatty style that can disarm anyone afraid from reading the classics. Her book was entertaining as well as a delightful journey into the world of people who are dedicated to all things Jane Austen. My Mom was the biggest Jane Austen fan I had ever known. Pride and Prejudice was her go to comfort book and I know she read it so many times, it fell apart. While I never read Austin's books, I read all the current Regencies that appeared through the nineties and fell in love with the period. I go into raptures when I buy anything from that time period and have a wonderful collection of snuff boxes and miniatures. I have loved reading about Jane Austen's life, and enjoyed all the movies that came out. So, my question is- can you be a Jane Austen fan without reading her books? Jaffe has motivated me to try again, so Jane Austen here I come.

Happy Reading!
Carole P. Roman

Friday, September 13, 2013

If at first you don't succeed...

Lovely book about perseverance and teamwork. Two unlikely animals team up to see if they can create a flying machine. Beautiful illustrations take the reader on a journey as they work out Galileo-like formulas to make the possibility of flight a reality. "Someone once wrote that only those who dream learn to fly". A wonderful way to teach children that what may start out as a dream, with hard work and ingenuity the sky is the limit!

Happy Reading!
Carole P. Roman

Thursday, September 12, 2013

In your face, campfire and flashlight scary!!!




Great book with an underlying theme of guilt, forgiveness and communication. Blended family moves into a creepy house that was formerly a church complete with a graveyard attached to the property. Realistic teens are uncomfortable with both their new stepdad and his strange and hostile daughter. Things start to get scary when Heather connects with a ghost who passed at her very own age.(seven years old). There is a lack of communication between the overwhelmed adults and the kids. The older daughter bravely tries to protect the younger, angry Heather and in the end they learn a valuable lesson. Great way to open a discussion about feeling safe enough to confide anything to your parents. Honesty is always the best policy. I would read it before I would let my child attempt it. It can be really scary.

Happy Reading!
Carole P. Roman

Wednesday, September 11, 2013

Chilling - all nighter read!

Chilling and terrible story of the disintegration of the values of our society. I found this book way more scarier and suspenseful then Gone Girl. To me- the characters were more believable. Detached and without a moral compass, both Todd and Jodi have their cake and want to eat it too. She keeps silent about his infidelity, as long as she can have the trappings of a upwardly mobile life. Keeping her home in order, looking perfect, making the gourmet dinner is were she centers her ambition. Her personal growth is tied only to the things that only she sees as important. Jodi is a therapist, and while she talks about her patients with clinical sarcasm that borders on light dinner conversation trivializing their problems, she is able to detach herself from her personal failures as well. Todd is selfish, a shark taking whatever he wants without any sense of consequence. He swims through life in the shallow waters, using everyone around him and discards their needs whether they be wife, girlfriend, partner, or friend. He sees people as objects to be used for his pleasure. I couldn't put the book down. Harrison compels you to read and read and read- because while the characters don't care- you can't help yourself from caring too much.

Happy Reading!
Carole P. Roman

Saturday, September 7, 2013

Not such a plain Jane



Interesting book about Jane Seymour, her family background, the dynamics of court life, and her role in advancing her family's position in the Tudor court. While not as flamboyant as Ann Boleyn, she had a certain grace that must have soothed the troubled royal Tudor family. Certainly she was picked by Henry because of her quiet dignity that comes across the pages. Of all six of his wives, maybe it is no coincidence that it is next to Jane he chose to be buried. There is not much to the faint outline of a girl who was married to one King and mother to another- this book fills in just a bit of the girl who died too young.

Happy Reading!
Carole P. Roman

The Husband's Secret



Great book about what do we really know about the people in our orbit? Each character of the book is spinning in their own world of work, home life, and their own insecurities. They are all busy, so busy they are living life without really seeing what's going on around them or with the people they love. Parents don't know their own children- they have no idea if someone is bullying them, why they love the subjects they do, or even if they have someone special in their life. Couples have secrets, as do each of the many different generations. They see each other as fixtures in their lives, accepting what they choose to believe and being blind to everything else. Each character is a separate identity with hopes, dreams, issues, and lastly dangerous secrets that will affect how they are perceived as well as destroy the illusion they all create to protect themselves. I read this book in one night, I simply could not put it down. Moiarty propels you into any neighborhood, in any country with relatable characters, all blind to everything except their own perceptions. I don't want to give to much away- but it was brilliant! The Husband's Secret is a box, much like Pandora's that once opened- the consequences are shattering.

Happy Reading!
Carole P. Roman

Tuesday, September 3, 2013

Book Review: The Ghost


When I started the book, at first it seemed more romantic comedy with ghostly undertones. It would have made a enjoyable story. Then it tuned moody and the characters waffled between likable and then thoroughly nasty. Are we supposed to like them, fall in love with Angus, feel threatened by Duncan or is it the other way around. While I understood the author was building suspense which is a good thing- each character needed to pick a side and stay there. How can we like Angus when he has that almost abusive side and punishes Elizabeth? The history was muddied jumping from the 1500's to the 1850's and was not seamless. While the author has a deft hand with descriptions that made me want more, her characters were not developed enough and left me feeling it was not enough. A potentially great idea with beautiful prose that needed its plot to be thought out more.

Happy Reading!
Carole P. Roman

Monday, September 2, 2013

Titanic QED


I thought the plot of "Jaws" meets "Titanic" a great idea and loved the premise. I was not ready for the all out horror and sci fi aspects of the book. I have to be fair and say it's not my usual genre. That being said, I think the author gave a very respectful and lovely account of the passengers and the doomed ship. Written in almost a period style- I don't know Lovelace, but I understood right away she was writing in a style of the early 20th century and I applaud her talent. I wished that she could have picked one horror aspect over the other. I don't want to give things away, but either one would have been enough to do the damage she needed for the plot. I agree with the other reviewer's comment about the "Scooby Doo" scene and thought the book was going in a much better direction until then. The Maggie Brown lifeboat episode was the best part of the book and alone made a terrific story. Here her character development shined. Interesting idea, but to me just a bit cluttered. Loved what Catt was actually implied- what truths do we really know about anything? Who decided reality and where is the truth? I will read more books by her. I think it would make a great Twilight Zone episode.

Happy Reading!
Carole P. Roman

Sunday, September 1, 2013

History Year by Year


The "Dark Ages" were a direct result of the fall of the Roman Empire. The Revolutions that rocked the world in the 18th century were born from the Age of Enlightenment. Few people realize that history is a continuous result of the occurrences that took place before. When you look at history as a cause and effect and connect the dots, it makes it much easier to understand where and how things happened, and why we must study the past to learn what's in store for us in the future. I bought this book for my son and daughter in law to read with their children. If children recognize events from the past- it will make it easier to learn in school. Many children have trouble with social studies. If you can get them familiar with certain key events- it will make is more understandable in the classroom. If you stress and show how events from the past have somehow effect them today- it personalizes history into something they can relate to and understand.

Happy Reading!
Carole P. Roman