She attended school against her parents' wishes. Despite her intellectual curiosity, she consistently failed her subjects because she couldn't keep up with the fast-paced, competitive, shame-inducing educational style.Flunking her 10th-grade finals just about extinguished her academic hopes. But one act of kindness radically changed her trajectory when an inspired acquaintance convinced her to redo the grade. Her new teacher--who was passionate and caring--taught students instead of subjects. A friend from her church gave her the finest tutoring, much-needed friendship, and even an example of a loving home and family.After completing 10th grade with top marks, she spent her remaining school years working tirelessly, eventually earning the Best All-Round Student award. Her passion for learning expanded into a passion for teaching; she pursued post-secondary degrees in America and began an influential career as a professor of education and international education consultant.Hong's eloquent present-tense narration animates scenes of family strife and academic struggle and evokes an astounding range of emotions--commiseration, frustration, and eventually elation. Something is always developing, whether it's the narrator herself or the plot.Though the memoir charts the author's intellectual growth, it also considers complex family relationships, poverty, Southeast Asian culture and education, disability, and determination. Hong demonstrates, through her own experiences, the pleasures and rewards of scholarship and effective teaching, and her account underscores how ordinary people can have life-changing effects on others.DescriptionWhen people first meet Barbara Hong, they often conclude that her life must have always been enriched. They assume she had loving, successful parents and all the support she needed to reach her goals. Nothing could be further from the truth.Hong's path to an Ivy League university and beyond started in a filthy tenement in Singapore where she lived with an abusive father and an illiterate mother. Even as a child of six, she worked in her sweatshop home to help with extra money, which her father often wasted on alcohol. As she endured his drinking and abuse, she feared that the pain she internalized could shatter her.But instead of falling apart, Hong managed to escape her misery, thanks to a teacher who believed in her. Once she knew she wasn't the brainless "cabbage head" her mother called her, she began excelling as a student, eventually finding the courage to leave her home and discover her true calling as a knowledge seeker, educator, and advocate.Hong's inspirational journey from a sweatshop home upbringing to influential professor movingly illustrates the true strength of the human spirit and the power of teachers.Failing UP was recognized as one of only 2% of books reviewed to earn a Kirkus STAR--the most prestigious designation in the book industry in awarding books of exceptional merit. To Read the Kirkus Review, visit: https: //www.kirkusreviews.com/book-reviews/ba...

    They will be yours for Cowboy Ever After.... I’m Forever Yours by Kathleen Ball Lee Ann Simpson left the Big M Ranch for the bright lights of San Antonio but now she’s back disillusioned by the underhanded tactics of her boss. Handsome Rancher Gunther Marlboro washed his hands of Lee Ann the day she left him behind but now she’s back looking defeated by the world. Can Gunther show Lee Ann how to trust again and most importantly how to love again? Always, Cowboy by Allison Merritt The past is better left behind, unless it offers a brighter future. Brody Longtree's first love was bull riding, but he loved beauty queen Libby Dempsey equally as hard. When her pageant dreams died in an embarrassing display of nerves, Libby made a new, cowboy-free life for herself. Despite the differences in their lives, they mesh together, the way Brody always knew they would. Snow Bird Springs: Cooper by Cheryl Gorman After witnessing the murder of her sister and brother-in-law, Wren Hathaway goes on the run with her infant niece. When her car breaks down in Snow Bird Springs, Colorado she must keep her identity a secret. Cooper Elias Slade is up for re-election as sheriff. After learning her identity, he debates whether to turn her in or discover the truth. Can Wren and Cooper find a way through the danger surrounding them or will they lose not only their hearts…but their lives? Redeeming Dreams by Melissa Keir Jeannette Redding captured America’s hearts when she won gold with the US Women’s Olympic Swim Team, but no one knew the hidden past she couldn’t escape. Her dream of starting over in Whisper, Colorado might derail if her past comes to light. Tanner Brock lost his passion for building when his vengeful ex-wife destroyed his company and career. He started over doing odd jobs for The Heartsong Ranch but never dreamed he’d work with his hands again. As Jeannette and Tanner discover their passion, can they find a way to make their dreams come true, or will they lose out on love and a brighter future? Acceptance by Lyssa Layne Heart of the South lead singer Noah "Jonesy" Jones is soaring toward the title of King of Country Music that his buddy Lee Maverick left for him to fill. Remy Smith is enjoying her job behind the scenes at a local radio station until her boss thrusts her in front of the microphone. When she's assigned to cover the Red, Wine, and Boom County Music Festival, she is not happy at all, thanks to her strong disdain for country music. Jonesy, always the one to save a damsel in distress, helps Remy survive her first interviews without being eaten alive. Despite her opposition to his choice of music, Remy decides to give him a chance. When Remy's co-worker decides to break the news about their relationship, Remy quickly pulls away and Jonesy may never know why Remy hates country music. Marin’s Montana Man by D’Ann Lindun After her ex-husband cheats on her, Marin Deni has no intention of ever falling in love again. When a friend’s brother arrives in town for a wedding, Marin’s resolve waffles. Can a sexy cowboy break through her defenses? After a broken marriage leaves Wade Wainwright distrustful of women, can he let down his guard to love again?

    Throughout the land, a strange legend has long told of an ancient people dwelling deep within the jungle whose possessions include a precious set of stones with the potential to bring unlimited power to its owner. As well as wealth beyond their wildest dreams . . .1904: In an old graveyard in a remote part of the Isles of Scilly, a distinguished academic makes a surprising discovery. The inscriptions on the gravestones are unlike any he has ever seen, at least in that part of the world. The clues point to an astounding possibility. A forgotten Spanish legend. And a four-hundred-year-old cover-up!Present Day: History lecturer Dr Ben Maloney is sitting in his office when the phone rings. A call from his cousin is rarely anything out of the ordinary, but today what he has to say is anything but normal. Their great-great-grandfather's body has been discovered in a boat near a deserted island in the Isles of Scilly. With a bullet through his skull!Dropping everything, the cousins' decision to visit the site of their ancestor's demise soon proves to be one that will change their lives forever. With nothing but a hundred-year-old diary and legends from the past to guide them, Ben soon realises their quest to solve the riddle of their ancestor's death will require them to take on an altogether greater mystery that will lead them not only halfway across the world delving deep into humanity's bloodiest past but potentially to their own deaths. An unimaginable treasure remains undiscovered - one with the ability to change the world for better or worse. And some will stop at nothing to find it . . .

    Start your time travel adventure today, because yesterday may be too late!

    But what really lights their hearts are the memories of a special romance. In these compelling tales shared with you by NYT & USA Today best-selling authors you’ll be thrilled to the core when reading their passionate love stories - SEVEN times over. Each story shares with you - A Christmas She'll Remember. Loveable Christmas Angel by Mimi Barbour - Aloha! Sweet romance, lovable angel, and a prickly little boy’s Christmas wish! "a warm and touching story just right for the holiday season. Enjoy!"--Amazon Reviewer Crimson Holiday by Patricia Rosemoor - Will this be the Christmas of her daydreams or of her nightmares? "a great Christmas story that is laced with suspense and romance"--Amazon Reviewer Nobody's Cinderella by Joan Reeves - This Christmas Cinderella should be careful what she wishes for! "This was a fun story and I highly recommend it. I'm a real fan of Ms. Reeves writing."--Caroline Clemmons Two Hearts Find Christmas (Two Hearts Wounded Warrior Romance Book 5) by Tamara Ferguson - Will two lonely hearts find Christmas when love’s magic works its spell? "Wow. Just wow! How’s that for a review? Author Tamara Ferguson has done an absolutely wonderful job in creating characters that her readers will relate to, care about"—Tracy Slowiak for Readers’ Favorite The Christmas Sparkle Test by Alicia Street - Star-crossed sweethearts get a second chance, but will the magic of Christmas be enough to rekindle their love despite the secrets of the past? "“Warmed my heart and had me believing in the magic of Christmas again!”--Reader review One to Keep by Ev Bishop - Can love tempt them to commit? Maybe. If they’re brave enough . . . "This is the perfect cosy, fireside read for a winter's night--then you can enjoy it all over again next winter, because this book is 'one to keep'"--Amazon Reviewer Christmas Surprise - Santa's Boots Under Her Bed by Stephanie Queen - Sometimes a surprise can change your life. Margo & George are about to find out this Christmas how true that is... “A refreshing and fun romance story that swept my off my feet.”—I Just Wanna Sit Here and Read

    

    The day after the troupe arrives in tiny Morgan’s Crossing, the manager takes all the money and leaves town. By opening a dressmaker shop, Cinnia hopes to make the home she’s always wanted, but Nola, the older sister who has made the decisions for the orphaned sisters, disagrees. Leather worker Nicolai Andrusha is living in hiding as Nic Andrews until the patent on his family’s tanning process is approved. Although he’s under a mandate to keep a low profile, he’s intrigued by the red-haired performer. Controversy arises when miners claim they paid the manager for private appointments with the female performers. Will Nicolai defy his family obligation to help the stranded beauty who has caught his eye?

    My secret, guilty obsession…”Emma Greythorne can light up any room she’s in. Born out of wedlock has never bothered her, nor has the gossip surrounding her. When it’s announced she has to marry the most notorious bachelor of London, however, her life is turned upside down.Jac Lancaster, Duke of Montfore, is an average man in an average world. Well, that’s if anyone believes that being exceptionally talented in everything is average. His wishes are to remain a bachelor. That is until he comes across the most beautiful Lady he has ever seen…But Emma and Jac quickly find out that all good things have an end. When family threatens to take everything from you, you know things have gone for the worse. And once scandal erupts, it’s hard to hide it. With all eyes on them, Emma is soon kidnapped from her house and Jac is the only one who can save her...

    When circumstances arise and her kidnapping becomes a permanent situation, Kate finds herself bonding with the very man who took her away from her family and fiance. Will it be possible for her to find what she was looking for where she least expected to? When the time comes, will she choose love over family, or will she find a way to have it all? Jack has led a rough life and he's determined to care for no one but himself. When he is hired by someone to kidnap young Kate and hold her for ransom, he jumps at the chance. But getting the money will not be that easy, as Kate's father is prepared to fight back. Jack is initially challenged by her stubbornness, but in time he discovers that her sweet personality brings out a softer side of him. In this impossible dilemma he is facing, will he choose to save the woman who makes him a better person over money? Nothing is what it appears to be and when all cards are revealed, decisions will need to be made. Who is behind Kate's kidnapping? They say when you find love, hold on to it, but will Kate and Jack dare to let love conquer all?

    A Step-by-Step Guide to Fluency in English ➢ How I use 7 clear steps to go from 0 to 100% in English ➢ Specific notes for learning English and its common mistakes & challenges for non-native speakers 2. Transcripts of real conversations + phrase guides ➢ How to use real conversations to improve your understanding ➢ Real examples of unscripted native conversations on common topics + phrase guides to learn from ➢ How to continue expanding your knowledge 3. How to Succeed with English – Clear & Easy Strategies ➢ Lots of exercises to improve your fluency in just 15 minutes at a time ➢ How to build your confidence and lose your shyness in English ➢ How to build a support team and how to stay fluent forever

     Wyatt Larken found the mail order bride he thought would make his life complete. He wanted a woman who would settle down with him on the ranch, love him, bear his children, and live a quiet life. On the day his mail order bride was to arrive, the stage was held up by the Dooby Gang and the stagedriver left her stranded with the outlaws, hightailing it back to town. Wyatt couldn't believe the stagedriver when he told him Shannon was giving the outlaws a piece of her mind, citing the Ten Commandments to them, giving him time to get away. When Wyatt went after her, he found her walking back to town and she was in no mood to get wed that day. Little did he realize that the quiet life he imagined was fraught with danger from the Dooby Gang. When his new wife's sisters and brothers arrived to protect her and bring down the outlaw gang, he'd never seen a family like hers and found that trouble followed Shannon and her family.

     Jeremiah Scott was returning to Weatherton, Wyoming after a six-year absence While in Cheyenne, arranging business deals and outfitting his ranch, he decided to find an impromptu bride. But when the bride was more than he bargained for, will it destroy his plans for marriage?" TO LOVE AND TO HONOR By Heather Blanton Joel Chapman feels like a failure. Losing a leg in battle, he failed to fulfill his duty as a captain. According to his wife, without two good legs, he’s failed as a husband and provider. Along with his self-respect, his spirit is dying a slow, painful death. Angela Fairbanks is the daughter of a tyrant—a cattle baron known for his iron fist and cold heart. She has no doubt once he learns she is carrying an illegitimate child, he will banish her from the ranch. Compassion and honor overtaking his good sense, Joel offers a noble lie to protect Angela and secure a home for her and the baby: one day as her husband, and then he’ll “abandon” her. Will the noble lie become simple deceit? Or is he man enough to resist his heart and keep his vows? A GROOM FOR CHRISTMAS By Tina Dee Addie Langford is desperate. Christmas is just around the corner and she’d love nothing more than a holiday break from the constant meddling of her family and their determination to find her a husband. Just when she thinks she’d gotten rid of one poor fellow, she lands right on top of another—literally. When he looks past her physical imperfection, will she also learn to look past it and find love? Rhett Marshall just wants to make his way in the world. He’s looking for a job as a ranch hand, but after a shotgun wedding he finds he’s gained a wife instead. The problem is that Addie was so much more than what she seemed, like no girl he’d ever met. After getting to know her, the big question is whether he’ll stay or go when the choice finally arrives. THE COWBOY’S CHRISTMAS PRAYERS By Laura J. Marshall 1905, South Dakota Stone Tyler Wayne, the man with three first names is just a simple cowboy. He has little to show for his hard-working ways other than the calluses on his hands, yet he folds these hands in consistent prayer to the One who sees his heart. Nan Kinsey is the boss’ daughter. Her father plans to marry her off to the ranch owner’s son next door. The problem is, she is drawn instead to Stone. Will their Christmas prayers be answered? MISTLETOE MISTAKE By Lynette Sowell Matthew Thomas cooked up the idea of helping the crumbling town of Angel Vale, Wyoming by arranging for mail order brides from the East--including a bride for himself until his feet get colder than a Wyoming blizzard. Widowed Sophia Webster tries to make a new start in Wyoming by staying true to her word and helping Matthew establish his newspaper, but come spring, it’ll be back East for her--unless Matthew’s change of heart can convince her otherwise. HUSBAND OF THE BRIDE By USA TODAY BESTSELLING Susette Williams Widowed for years, Ma has been the matriarch of the family, facing the challenges of raising four boys who are now men. With the arrival of her first grandchild imminent, Ma finds herself face-to-face with the town doctor who has very differing views than her own.

    Within hours of his arrival he is sent on his first bombing mission as second pilot in a 104 Squadron Wellington. The aircraft was hit by enemy gunfire and suffered continual loss of altitude as it struggled to return to base. In thick cloud over a vast expanse of barren desert the aircraft hit a rock outcrop and disintegrated. Bill came to lying alone on a precipitous ledge and soon realized that he was the sole survivor. If he was to live he had to find help.To walk in temperatures of over 100 degrees proved impossible, so he trudged over seemingly endless dunes at dusk and dawn, his energy gradually fading. On the point of near collapse he found what he thought was a small cave in which to shelter from the searing sun. His luck now changed as he realized that his shelter was in fact an abandoned German reconnaissance truck. He found water and a little food, but no radio. He gradually resigned himself to death as he was incapable of moving any further, but then with a last desperate inspiration he realized that it may be possible to attract attention by heliograph. He found enough equipment in the truck and rigged a mast with the mirror at the top and commenced signaling and was eventually rescued by a Long Range Desert Patrol. After recuperation he rejoined his squadron and was given a new crew with whom he completed his tour. He was then sent to Malta where much to his amazement he was made ground controller of a satellite fighter airfield. He eventually was repatriated to the UK suffering with Malaria.

    Can she learn to accept Clinton’s love for her? Together, can they form a strong family unit for three siblings? Big Spring Brides: Anna Anna has spent her childhood in an orphanage. She is given a chance for a new life in Texas traveling on an orphan train. She is adopted by a couple who needs her help with their store. When she is an adult, she decides to become a mail-order bride to a man who owns a ranch in Montana. Will she be able to accept the man who is really meant for her? Big Spring Brides: Serena Serena has always wanted a family. When she agrees to go to Texas with a group of orphans, she is adopted by a kind family. Yet, she has a hard time with the idea that anyone could really love her. Nine years later, she is given a chance to go to Montana where Anna lives and marry Paul, a brother of Anna’s husband as a mail-order bride. Will she be able to learn to love Paul and to accept his love for her? Big Spring Brides: Katrina As a 12-year-old, Katrina leaves the orphanage to go to Texas because her best friends, Anna and Serena, want a chance for a family. She is adopted by a well-to-do family who tries to force her to make a decision she doesn’t want to make when she is an adult. She leaves with Serena to join Anna and to teach at a ranch in Montana. While there, she meets Luke, the eldest brother of Paul and Alex, who has made a vow he will never marry again, not even to provide a mother for his daughter. Can Katrina and Luke help each other learn to love?

    It's a time of year that brings bittersweet memories for this young man, reminders of all the things he's lost. But tonight he'll strike back against the bad luck that's slowly claimed his family. Tonight he's determined he'll kill the drug dealer, Mohr. Tonight, also, Karsten Groll knows that he will die himself.