Review This Reviews!

Monday, March 11, 2024

Hallmark Movie Review As Luck Would Have It

Celebrate St. Paddy's Day with this Hallmark's As Luck Would Have It filmed in Ireland with stars Joanna Swisher and Allen Leech in this delighful movie. Downton Abbey fans will immediately recognize Leech aka as Tom Branson, a beloved Downton Abbey character.

Hallmark fans will enjoy the traditional storyline which is enhanced by the chemistry between the lead actors and authentic Irish scenery. Filmed In Kilabbey, Ireland and Howth Castle and add in the Cliffs of Mohr and viewers will not be disappointed.

The storyline is not new (and that is OK! for a movie which works so well) as an American is dispatched to turn the Irish family castle into a hotel. The struggle to keep the castle and town financially afloat is the why and the heart behind the castle is the why the behind saving the castle and town!

With names such as Brennan, Seamus, Fiana, Siobhan, and Maebh the authenticity shines through of the supporting cast. The Hallmark chemistry hits the bullseye with Joanna and Allen, the supporting characters and the scenery is so beautiful - let's call the scenery a major supporting character too!

Of course love is in the air as the main characters work as opposities and then join forces to save the family hotel as only Hallmark can...

Deer Park Hotel

Ever want to stay at a Hallmark movie castle? This castle may be your chance. In August 2023 plans have been approved to construct a hotel on the Howth property. The current Deep Park will be demolished to build a destination hotel with all the amenties. The project's estimated completion is 2025 to welcome guests.

Howth Castle Cookery School

Who knew cooking classes are held at the infamous Howth Castle 18th Century Georgian kitchen! Professional chefs provide hands on instruction for foodies of all levels in the cooking shcool which has operated since 2008 in the castle.

Recommendation

Highly recommend As Luck Would Have It! Ireland fans and Hallmark romcom fans will not be disappointed and in fact, this is a movie which left many viewers asking, "When is the sequel?"

Note: The author may receive a commission from purchases made using links found in this article. “As an Amazon Associate, Ebay (EPN) and/or Esty (Awin) Affiliate, I (we) earn from qualifying purchases.”

FOLLOW US ON:

Sunday, March 10, 2024

Two Weeks Notice: A Rom-Com Delight That's Worth the Watch

Sandra Bullock takes center stage as the lovably quirky Lucy Kelson. From her passionate activism to navigating the unpredictable waters of being reluctant legal counsel for billionaire George Wade, Bullock's performance is a masterclass in charm and comedic brilliance.

Lucy's story is not just about accepting a legal position that is the antithesis of her beliefs but a delightful exploration of self-discovery and unexpected love.

Hugh Grant's "George Wade": A Billionaire Trying to Find Himself

Hugh Grant's portrayal of George Wade is delightful. But pretty much everything Hugh Grant acts in is top-drawer.

As the charming billionaire with a knack for self-centered mischief, Grant effortlessly brings out the humor and heart in his character.

Wade's playboy persona takes a backseat as the story unfolds, revealing a surprisingly endearing side that adds depth to the romantic comedy dynamic.

Romance and Laughter Unleashed: The Perfect Blend

"Two Weeks Notice" masters the art of balancing romance and comedy. The banter between Lucy and George is a joy to watch, creating a dynamic that keeps audiences hooked from start to finish. For me personally, the best part of the movie is the script's banter.

The witty script, coupled with the charismatic performances of the lead actors, makes for a movie that doesn't just entertain but leaves you with a warm, fuzzy feeling that lingers.

Supporting Cast Shines Bright

Alicia Witt, Robert Klein, Dana Ivey, and a stellar supporting cast elevate the film's humor and charm. Each character adds a unique flavor to the mix, contributing to the overall hilarity and heartwarming moments.

The ensemble cast's chemistry creates a delightful synergy that enhances the film's appeal.

New York City: The Perfect Backdrop for Love and Laughter

The bustling streets of New York City serve as the picturesque backdrop for Lucy and George's romantic escapades.

The city's energy and charm amplify the film's modern-day fairy tale vibe, adding an extra layer of romance to an already captivating story.

Enjoy a Cozy Night In with "Two Weeks Notice"

In romantic comedies, "Two Weeks Notice" is a timeless classic. Sandra Bullock and Hugh Grant's on-screen chemistry, witty script, and a touch of romance create a cinematic experience perfect for a cozy night in.

So, grab your popcorn, settle in, and let Lucy and George whisk you away on a happiness-filled journey—you're in for a delightful treat!

I've seen this movie ten times or more, and I'm watching it again now.

You can find it on Amazon Prime.

FOLLOW US ON:

Saturday, March 9, 2024

The Head That Wears the Crown by Mariah Stewart – Book Review

From South Philly to Fairy-Tale Castle

Mariah Stewart's writing career has included more than 45 books in six different series, plus several stand-alone titles. Most of her novels are in the Women's Fiction/Contemporary Romance genre, plus her FBI series of Romantic Suspense stories (my favorite series).

I own most of her series books. Recently, I found her latest non-series novel published in 2023 ~ The Head That Wears The Crown.

What little girl doesn't dream of growing up to be a Princess and live in a castle?

What if it came true?

Synopsis

The Head That Wears the Crown

Annie (Annaliese) Gilberti is an ordinary divorced mother of two teenagers, living in South Philadelphia. She works a nine-to-five job, takes care of her kids, socializes with her friends and her two sisters; in other words, living a life similar to many others.

Suddenly, what was just another average day, reveals a shocking discovery that turns her world upside down. Annie learns that her late grandmother was the exiled ruler of a small European country, and she is next in line to wear the crown and restore the monarchy.

The country, Saint Gilbert, is a tiny little land located between Switzerland, France & Italy. It was invaded first by the Germans, then taken over by the Russians. After many years, the land is finally free and the monarchy reestablished; hence, the next-in-line ruler was searched out and found to be the oldest granddaughter – Annie Gilberti.

After a week-long trip to St. Gilbert to find out what this was all about, Annie commits to moving there. She does so with her two children and her two sisters. Annie then becomes European Royalty ~ Her Royal Highness, Grand Duchess Annaliese Jacqueline Terese of the Grand Duchy of Saint Gilbert. The family moves into the ancestral home, Castle Blanc (a beautiful white castle with many rooms) and are looked after by the castle staff and guarded by the castle guard. The Castle Guard Captain – Maximilien Belleme (very handsome and dashing, of course) – makes sure the family is always looked after.

The country is beautiful and the villagers friendly. But the country needs to be brought into the modern age and Annie has never been one to walk away from a challenge. She is determined to be worthy of the crown and the throne that has been offered and take her rightful place as the Grand Duchess of Saint Gilbert and carry on her grandmother's legacy.

Summary

The Head That Wears The Crown is a delightful contemporary romance story I thoroughly enjoyed. I recommend it to all fans of author Mariah Stewart and those who enjoy sweet, romantic, stories.

Links to More Reviewed Books by Mariah Stewart:

An Invincible Summer

Goodbye Again

All That We Are

For More Book Reviews, Click on
ReviewThisBooks.com

*Book Review by Wednesday Elf

FOLLOW US ON:

Friday, March 8, 2024

How to Bake a Delicious Turkey Breast Reviewed

I've been baking whole turkeys for many years, but I don't remember ever baking just a turkey breast until recently.

My husband loves turkey. I bake them a few times each year during the holidays, but even with our large family gathered for the holidays, there is still turkey meat left over. This thrills my husband because he makes turkey sandwiches with the leftovers for a few days after I bake a whole turkey for a family dinner.

The problem has always been that once New Year's has passed, it would normally be 11 months before a turkey would grace our dinner table again. When our local grocery store had frozen turkey breasts on sale, I decided to bake just the breast for my husband to make our beloved sandwiches.

What a great decision!

How to Bake a Turkey Breast

Baking a delicious turkey breast is easy! I decided to bake the turkey breast exactly the same way I bake a whole turkey. My mother taught me decades ago how to bake a tender turkey in a Reynold's oven bag.

Year after year, diners praise my turkey for being tender, moist and delicious. I have never minded sharing my secret for baking a delicious turkey and now I will share how I used the same method to bake a fabulous turkey breast.

Be sure to thaw the turkey breast in the refrigerator for 2 or 3 days before you want to cook it. Because turkey packaging tends to leak, you will want to put a tray under it and/or put it in a disposable grocery bag to keep from making a mess in the refrigerator.

Supplies

Thawed Turkey Breast

Reynolds Oven Bag (Turkey Size)
1 Tbsp Flour
1/4 Cup of Butter (softened)
Pepper
Deep Roasting Pan

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven to 350°

Step 2: Toss 1 Tbsp flour inside the Reynolds Oven Bag

Step 3: Hold the mouth of the bag closed and shake the bag to cover sides & top with flour

Step 4: Put the floured bag in a 2″ deep, heavy duty roasting pan with it opened wide to make it easy to insert the turkey breast later

Step 5: Wash the turkey completely, inside and out and remove any ice packets inside the turkey

Step 6: Pat dry the outside of the turkey with paper towels

Step 7: Carefully place the turkey inside the floured bag, leaving the bag open wide

Step 8: Rub the entire outside of the turkey with *softened butter

Step 9: Cut the remaining butter into pieces and place the pats on top and inside of the turkey breast.

Step 10: Pepper the outside of the turkey

Step 11: Close and secure the bag with a nylon tie that is included with the Reynolds Oven Bags

Step 12: Cut six 1/2″ slits in the top of the bag to allow steam to escape while cooking

Step 13: Tuck the ends of the bag inside the roasting pan

Step 14: Place the pan in the oven. Be sure to allow plenty of room for the bag to expand during cooking without touching the sides, racks, heating elements, etc. of the oven.

Step 15: Bake according to chart in the Reynolds Oven bag. An 8 lb. turkey breast will take 2 1/2 - 3 hrs

*Softened butter - You can leave the butter on the counter for an hour before you need it or you can microwave it on defrost for 15 - 20 seconds to soften it

Process in Pictures

turkey breast preparation Washed, Dried, Buttered, Peppered, Prepared & Ready to Close Bag

turkey breast in the bag In the Bag, Bag Tie Secure, & All Bag Sides Tucked Inside Pan

turkey breast in the oven In the Oven - Back, Sides & Top Clear

Baked & Out of the Oven

At this point, you will need to let the turkey breast cool for 15 - 30 minutes. Then, remove it from the bag, carve & serve.

According to my husband, there has never been a more delicious baked turkey breast!

My Preferred Supplies Are Available on Amazon

REYNOLDS TURKEY BAGS (Pkg of 4-2 packs, 8 Total)

Reynolds Kitchens Heavy Duty Aluminum Pans for Roasting, 16x13 Inch, Pack of 3

Check Out More Recipe Reviews at
ReviewThisRecipes.com

How to Bake a Delicious Turkey Breast Reviewed Written by:

FOLLOW US ON:

Thursday, March 7, 2024

Savory Spinach Ball Appetizers

If you looking for an easy and healthy appetizer to serve at your next gathering, look no further than these easy spinach ball appetizers. These bite-sized delights are packed with nutrients and bursting with flavor. Whether hosting a party or craving a tasty snack, these spinach balls are the perfect choice.

Spinach Ball Appetizers - Reviewed

This is one of those recipes we had packed away and had not made for some time. This past Holiday season, Fran was going through some old recipes and found our spinach ball recipe.

We both thought wow we haven't made these in a long time. So, we decided to make them and we're so glad we did.

Spinach Ball Ingredients:

2 cups( 2-10 boxes) frozen chopped spinach
3 large eggs
2 cups seasoned bread crumbs
1/2 cup grated Parmesan Cheese
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 cup melted butter
1/2 teaspoon thyme
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions:

Thaw and pat dry the spinach.
In a large mixing bowl, combine all ingredients and mix well.
Scoop out portions of the mixture and roll into bite-sized balls.
Place them on a greased cookie sheet or lined with parchment paper.
Bake at 375 degrees for 15 to 20 minutes until they are golden brown and firm to the touch.
Cool for a few minutes before serving.

These spinach balls are a great way to incorporate healthy greens into your diet without sacrificing flavor. Spinach balls are a perfect appetizer for any party or just as a snack.

If we have any leftovers we freeze them. You can take them out of the freezer and pop them in the oven to warm them up for a snack. I like them plain, but you can experiment with different dipping sauces if you like.

For more recipes on Review This click here:

ReviewThisRecipes.com

Premium Non-Stick Baking Sheets Set of 3 - Deluxe BPA Free, Easy to Clean Racks w/Silicone Handles - Bakeware Pans for Cooking Baking Roasting - Lets You Bake The Perfect Cookie or Pastry Every Time

Reynolds Kitchens Cookie Baking Sheets, Pre-Cut Parchment Paper,25 Count (Pack of 4), 100 Total Sheets

FOLLOW US ON:

Wednesday, March 6, 2024

No Bed Sores or Discomfort for Us! ~ A Product Review

Caring for the Elderly brings you to all kinds of new ideas to make life comfortable and cozy, especially when most of the time is spent in bed!

If you have been following my blog posts you know all about how we (my other half and I ) are caring for my mother! She is in her mid-90's and not in the best of health. After a fall and a hospital stay, she is pretty much bed-ridden at this point in her life.

That is not particularly great for anyone but when you are elderly, it can be even more problematic. Bed sores from constant pressure on certain body parts are a reality that must be dealt with.

A while ago Margaret Schindel did a whole series on her new bed and the amazing mattress, you can read some of her review here.. She highly recommends it and what stuck with me was the memory foam layer in the mattress construction.

We have a hospital bed for our Omi (that's her nickname), that helps us to position her so that she can watch TV, read, or just relax. It also helps us to take care of her other needs as it raises and lowers so that our backs aren't quite so stressed. But while those are great features, the mattress left a lot to be desired.

Within a month she was feeling pain in certain areas of her back, so we knew we had to do something to mitigate that pain. Enter the Memory Foam Mattress Topper!

We decided to go with a 3 inch Gel Memory Foam Topper with a removeable cover. With elderly people you have to be able to wash the cover often, but we also have mattress protectors for double insurance against leaks and other problems.

We love that this Mattress Topper is affordable and has some really great features as well. It is made of high density foam that gives great back and general body support while still being breathable.

Having the body supported fully lets the spine relax in a neutral position and the muscles also relax. Sleep is enhanced and there is no morning soreness.

The Bamboo Fiber Cover is skin friendly and breathable. It has adjustable elastic straps and an anti-slip surface so that once placed on the mattress, it will not move easily.

We like that it comes with a 10 year warranty. The only downside was that when we first got it, we needed to let the topper air out! It did have that new foam smell to it, but with it being placed out on the balcony for a day, that completely disappeared and we have not smelled it since.

All in all, this topper has been a life saver and Omi is no longer complaining about soreness anywhere. So we know that it is doing what it's supposed to do.

In our later years, we all want to be as comfortable as possible and this is a great, affordable and easy fix. Bed Sores are not something that anyone would want to have and if they are left untreated, they can become infected. So let's stop them from happening! We have enough problems without adding ones that don't have to be there.

I hope this helps anyone else in our position, or anyone who has difficulty sleeping. Try a Memory Foam Topper for your bed and see what kind of a difference it can make for you!

FOLLOW US ON:

Monday, March 4, 2024

Reviewing Etsy as a Source for Succulent Shopping

Did you know that Etsy is a great place to buy plants? I did not know that until recently. I was shopping for succulents and saw so many good reviews on many Etsy plant shops that I decided to give it a try. I received my order from QueenofSucculents this week and was thrilled.

I was having a long-distance chat with my grandson recently. I was telling him what I was going to try to winter-sow outside. And vegetables that I wanted to try to grow this year. I listed onions, spinach, lettuce, and so on. He asked if he could make a suggestion. Of course I said yes. I thought he'd tell me about his favorite vegetable. Instead, he listed several interesting and rare succulents.

FUN! Many years ago, I lived where hens and chicks (plants) grew outside. And believe it or not, some sort of cactus grew outside in Indiana. I've also enjoyed growing Aloe Vera and Christmas Cactus indoors off and on over the years. But I haven't had any of those plants for quite awhile.

One of the "rare" or "interesting" plants he listed was a Haworthia Obtusa. I'd never heard of that particular plant so I looked it up. Wow! It was interesting.

With our conversation, I had an urge to have some succulent plants again. And how much better if I could find some Haworthia Obtusa's to grow. I did buy some succulents at a semi-local garden center and nursery.

Succulent Shopping on Etsy

There are so many varieties of Succulents on Etsy. Many types, colors, and prices. There are many shops with great customer ratings and customer photos of the plants they purchased. The difficult thing about choosing a succulent shop was narrowing it down to just one shop for my first order.

I narrowed it down to QueenofSucculents. I was still hesitant. I expected that it was unlikely that my plants received would be the plants in the shop photos. But they were! I received exactly what I was looking at when I ordered.

My plants were packed in a way that kept them safe; a combination of peanuts, paper, and what looked like the stuffing used for stuffed animals.

I also received a teeny-tiny free gift - the cutest little succulent plant ever. Along with a Smart Plant Care card and a thank you/general care card.

I am very pleased with my order and my plants and look forward to adding to my collection of succulents - as soon as I prove to myself that I can keep these plants alive for awhile!

Two Highly Recommended Etsy Succulent Shops:

QueenofSucculents - Based in Santa Cruz, California. All succulents have been "grown by us, hand-picked from nurseries, or imported from Korea".

RareSucculents - A succulent farm in Massachusetts

FOLLOW US ON:

Sunday, March 3, 2024

A 5-Star Rollercoaster of Intense Hilarity and Heart Based on True Financial Folly

Dumb Money unfolds the true tale of the GameStop short squeeze led by Keith Gill, aka Roaring Kitty. Gill, an everyday investor with a YouTube channel and Reddit presence, takes center stage.

The film demystifies short selling, where investors bet against a company's success, offering a gripping glimpse into the volatile world of stock market maneuvers.

With a brilliant ensemble cast and a razor-sharp script inspired by actual events, this is a gripping film, so I'm giving it a personal five-star rating.

A Hilarious (and Intense) Exploration of Real-Life Financial Folly:

"Dumb Money" draws inspiration from the true story of a motley crew of amateur investors who stumbled upon a golden opportunity in the volatile world of stocks.

Led by the charismatic cast, the group dives headfirst into the chaos of Wall Street, armed with little more than dreams and misguided ambition.

An intense comedy of errors ensues as the characters navigate the complexities of the stock market, making decisions that range from absurd to downright ludicrous.

The film cleverly satirizes the unpredictable nature of financial markets while delivering punchline after punchline with impeccable comedic timing.

Heartfelt Moments Amidst the Laughter, Rooted in Reality:

While "Dumb Money" is undoubtedly a riotous comedy, it also surprises audiences with moments of unexpected depth and sincerity rooted in the reality of actual events. The film explores themes of friendship, resilience, and the pursuit of dreams against all odds. Beneath the laughter, viewers find a relatable story of individuals navigating the ups and downs of life, both in and out of the stock market.

Visually Appealing and Energetic, Inspired by Actual Events:

The film's vibrant cinematography and energetic pacing contribute to its overall appeal. The director's keen eye for visual storytelling complements the script, creating a lively and immersive experience.

From the frenetic chaos of trading to the quieter, introspective moments, "Dumb Money" captivates audiences with its dynamic presentation inspired by the true events that unfolded.

Conclusion:

In the realm of comedy, "Dumb Money" stands tall as a testament to the brilliance that arises when a stellar cast, a witty script, and skilled direction converge, all rooted in the reality of true financial folly.

This 5-star gem delivers shocking humor and surprises with its heartwarming moments and resonant themes. "Dumb Money" is a must-watch for anyone seeking a rollercoaster that effortlessly balances humor and heart, offering a true-to-life glimpse into the unpredictable world of financial endeavors.

Strap in for a wild ride that leaves you both in stitches and on the edge of your seat, proving that sometimes the best investments are the ones that make you shockingly laugh, especially when they're based on true stories.

I couldn't believe this was a true story! But yep, sure was. I personally loved this one!

★★★★★ Five Stars

You can find this movie on Amazon Prime.

FOLLOW US ON:

Saturday, March 2, 2024

No Reserve by Felix Francis – Book Review

A Dick Francis Novel

Author Felix Francis continues following in his father's footsteps with the series of books which are always placed in the horse racing world in Great Britain. Each main character in these books written first by Dick Francis, and then continued on by his son, Felix Francis, is related in some way to horse racing. The character may be a jockey, a horse trainer or owner, or in some way work in a related field.

In this latest book, No Reserve, the reader gets to follow the actions and adventures of an auctioneer in Newmarket at the bloodstock yearling sales.

Synopsis of No Reserve

The higher the stakes, the greater the risk....

No Reserve (A Dick Francis Novel)

Theo Jennings has been working for a bloodstock sales company these past three years, hoping to continue climbing the ladder in his chosen field. On Day 1 of the Newmarket October sales he makes his first-ever multimillion-dollar sale of a yearling colt. A few days after the sale, Theo finds out that the colt has died. After having accidentally overhearing a conversation about that colt and insurance, he becomes suspicious that foul play was involved.

Theo begins to investigate the death of the colt, with the help of a young woman friend who works in the accounting department of the sales company. But no one really wants to talk to him or answer any questions. Then a person's body is found in the same stable where the colt was found dead.

Suddenly, Theo finds fingers pointed at him and his world turns upside down with the accusations. The only way to clear his name is to find the real murderer.

Summary

Another exciting adventure in the English world of race horses by mystery writer, Felix Francis. A thoroughbred thriller for sure!

Friday, March 1, 2024

Harlan Coben's Fool Me Once - Netflix Series Reviewed

My husband and I recently watched the Netflix series, "Fool Me Once". We both would recommend it, even though there were times when I thought the title should have been "fools rush in".

The main character, Maya Stern, seems to have the attitude that she is invincible, superior and the authority in any room or situation. Frankly, she was not always very admirable. Her rash decisions to constantly confront everyone made her seem more out of control than considered or intelligent, especially when her actions could influence her teenage niece and her teammates.

At one point, we almost turned it off, but there was just enough suspense and mystery to the plot to keep us watching.

I wasn't sure what I thought of the investigator, Sami Kierce, at first, but in the end he turned out to be one of my favorite actors in the series, simply because of his acting skill. We also really liked 'Corey the Whistle' who was truly committed to revealing the truth and he seemed to genuinely care.

Fool Me Once Synopsis

Fool Me Once - Book

Video Currently on Netflix

There is a lot happening in Maya Stern's life all at the same time.

She is a helicopter pilot that has recently been expelled from the military because she fired on an unverified civilian truck while trying to protect troops on the ground.

Her beloved sister has been murdered and Maya feels there is more behind her death than just a home invasion. Of course, Maya must investigate her sister's death.

Then, her husband is shot in front of her while they are walking in the park and she has to endure police questioning. Plus, her sanity is in question when she sees her husband visit their daughter on a recently acquired nanny cam. Instead of calling the police, Maya confronts the nanny who responds by pepper-spraying her in the face and stealing the video card. Now, the evidence that her husband may still be alive is gone.

Maya is not liked by her husband's wealthy family and her mother-in-law is equally confrontational and derogatory. Sparks fly every time the two of them are together, or even talk on the phone.