Showing posts with label book reviews. Show all posts
Showing posts with label book reviews. Show all posts

9.24.2020

CONNOISSEUR REVIEWS SEPTEMBER

7:27 AM 0 Comments

Welcome to the September edition of Connoisseur Reviews. I am sharing beautiful books, delightful teas, luxurious natural soaps, exquisitely scented laundry detergent, and more in this month's review.

      



The following three books from the editors of Victoria Magazine are the most beautiful coffee table books and would make excellent gifts. These will be reappearing in my upcoming holiday gift guide. 




The Art of Tea from the editors of Victoria Magazine. From the publishers: The ages-old tapestry of taking tea is woven with a prismatic palette of threads, from the golden strands of tradition and the silver cords of friendship to the rainbow ribbons of taste bud–tempting refreshments and the brightly hued filaments of an elegantly set table.




Our Hearts are in France from the editors of Victoria Magazine. From the publishers:  Our Hearts Are in France takes readers on a memorable journey through this majestic country, where centuries-old chateaux rise from the riverbanks and snow-dusted mountains give way to rolling hills and fertile valleys sprinkled with tiny villages, each one more enchanting than the last.

Our Hearts are in England from the editors of Victoria Magazine From the publishers: Our Hearts are in England is an idyllic sojourn through this “green and pleasant land” of scenic byways and quaint villages, glorious gardens, and quintessential cottages. Filled with lush photography and enchanting prose, this exquisitely bound 232-page hardcover book is one to savor as we voyage together in search of England’s very essence.

The Psychology of Money by Morgan Housel "Doing well with money isn’t necessarily about what you know. It’s about how you behave. And behavior is hard to teach, even to really smart people." 



Simple Loose Leaf Tea in Simple Vanilla Herbal is my favorite from this line, but honestly they are all lovely. This has revived my love for Rooibos tea, which I used to drink on a regular basis. The Simple Vanilla Herbal is so delightful and feels like a rich, full-bodied black tea even though it is an herbal red tea. They are all delightful. You can find them on the Simple Loose Leaf Tea website, or on Amazon. 



The Sleep and Glow pillow is an innovative, anti-microbial anti-aging pillow that allows side-sleepers to enjoy sleep without "squishing" the face. There's no other way to put it, really. It's a very comfortable pillow and I enjoy using it and do see the benefit of the grooves in the side of the pillow. Use code JenniferScott10 for $10 off. (My robe is by Plush Necessities) 


The Bend Soap Co. is a wonderful, small family business located in Bend, Oregon. They create all natural goat milk soap products. My favorite scent of theirs is the "almond delight" line. They have expanded this line in all of their offerings, including their luxury milk bath and sugar scrub. I highly recommend! Code DC10 for 10% off 



Hiketron Laundry Detergent makes the most beautifully and complex scented laundry detergents. My favorite scent of their is Mambo Man (trust me on this one). They have just released three new scents that are great too: Paradise, Energize and Tropical Passion code JENNY25 gives 25% off for first-time customers. 



News
📍Join us for The Chic Assignment for September. 

📍Take my new eCourse, Carry Yourself with Poise. There are so many amazing ladies on this course, bonding and building friendships as we rally around elegant living. Tamara writes, "I absolutely adored this course! One of the best investments I have ever made in my life. Jennifer, I would like to thank you for taking the time to create a course that is enriching. I look forward future courses."

📍Become a member of The Daily Connoisseur through the MEMBERSHIPS feature. I do one livestream as well 3 episodes of my new Vodcast (a video podcast) per month. (Link must be accessed on a computer.)

📍Thank you for your wonderful support of my new book, CONNOISSEUR KIDS.


On Instagram
Madame Chic in Thailand... 
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❌ SOLD OUT ❌ 🗼 เคล็ดลับใช้ชีวิตอย่างมีสไตล์ที่ฉันได้เรียนรู้มาจากปารีส . . ทำไมสาวปารีเซียงถึงมีเสื้อผ้าแค่ 10 ชิ้น? ทำไมสาวปารีเซียงถึงรูปร่างดีอยู่เสมอทั้งที่ไม่เคยไปฟิตเนส? ทำไมสาวปารีเซียงถึงชอบทำตัวลึกลับแม้แต่กับคนใกล้ชิด? . หนังสือเล่มนี้ เป็นผลงานของ ‘Jennifer L. Scott’ บล็อกเกอร์แนวไลฟ์สไตล์ชื่อดัง ที่จะมาเปิดเผยเคล็ดลับการใช้ชีวิตของผู้หญิงในมหานคร ที่ได้ชื่อว่าผู้คนดูดีมีสไตล์ที่สุดในโลก ตั้งแต่การแต่งหน้าให้ดูเหมือนไม่ได้แต่ง การจัดตู้เสื้อผ้าเพื่อเสริมบุคลิกให้น่ามอง ไปจนถึงการสร้างเสน่ห์ในแบบที่ทุกคนเห็นแล้วต้องเหลียวมอง . แค่อ่านแล้วลองนำไปใช้ คุณก็สามารถเปลี่ยนชีวิตให้ดูดีมีสไตล์แบบสาวปารีเซียงได้...ไม่ว่าตอนนี้คุณจะอยู่ที่ไหนบนโลกก็ตาม . . 📝 writer: Jennifer L. Scott publisher: WE Learn pages: 352 สภาพ: สมบูรณ์ 100 % . . ราคาปก: 265 ราคาขาย: 190 (ส่งฟรีลงทะเบียน) . . ✖️ จองแล้วรบกวนโอนภายใน 24 ชั่วโมง ถ้าหากเกินเวลาจะให้สิทธิลูกค้าคนถัดไป . . #หนังสือ #หนังสือมือสอง #หนังสือมือหนึ่ง #หนังสือมือสองสภาพดี #หนังสือมือสองราคาถูก #welearn #welearnbook #welearnpublishing #lessonsfrommadamechic #เคล็ดลับใช้ชีวิตอย่างมีสไตล์ที๋ฉันได้เร้ยนรู้มาจากปารีส #หนังสือจิตวิทยา #หนังสือฮาวทู

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Comment of the Week


Thank you, Elisabeth! The ten-item wardrobe video comes out on Monday and I have a special Homeschool video out on Saturday. It's a busy week on The Daily Connoisseur!

I hope you enjoyed today's review. Let us know if you have found anything worth sharing in the comments below. 


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FTC: This video is not sponsored. Links are affiliate. All of the items featured today were gifted in exchange for an honest review. 



7.19.2018

The Woman's Herbal Apothecary | Book Review

5:58 AM 2 Comments


I have the pleasure of reviewing the new book, The Woman's Herbal Apothecary, by JJ Pursell for you in today's video.



Here is the description from Amazon:

The Woman's Herbal Apothecary: 200 Natural Remedies for Healing, Hormone Balance, Beauty and Longevity, and Creating Calm

The Woman’s Herbal Apothecary is every woman’s lifelong guide to herbal remedies for common health concerns. Novice herbalists and advanced practitioner’s alike will learn how to naturally treat the complete spectrum of women’s concerns, including preventative self-care, life transitions, and common feminine ailments.

Learn how to prevent, soothe, and heal without resorting to medical remedies, which are often harsh, costly, and include unpleasant side effects. The Woman’s Herbal Apothecary contains 200 natural remedies, covering the topics of menses, pregnancy, menopause, aging, fibroids, bladder infections, and low libido, among others.

The book is conveniently divided into the major cycles of a woman’s life: pre-childbirth, reproductive years, menopause, and beyond. Each section discusses specific physical complaints and how to treat them. You will learn which herbs are the most helpful for each phase of life and which are contraindicated or to be avoided. Master herbalist and naturopathic doctor JJ Pursell provides her own herbal solutions and DIY herbal remedies. The concluding section is divided by specific common health issues in women, such as cardiac disease, thyroid disease, and adrenal dysfunction.

With The Woman’s Herbal Apothecary in hand, you are on your way to healing, hormone balance, beauty, longevity, and calm—the natural way.




I have always been interested in natural healing, so I found this book to be fascinating. Pursell has different recipes for so many health issues that affect women, everything from teas, to tinctures, to poultices, to sitz baths.

This book is a wonderful resource for anyone interested in natural healing. It would also make a great gift.

For more, visit Dr. JJ's website.

I hope you enjoy the review in today's video.

News
For more of The Daily Connoisseur, take my eCourses, Creating Your Own Ten-Item Wardrobe and Chic Financial Principles for Debt-Free Living.

On Instagram
I celebrated my birthday yesterday and shared this picture on Instagram. Thank you for all of your kind birthday messages! I had a wonderful day. xx




Comment of the Week
Regarding Monday's master bedroom tour, Rhonda writes, "Lovely Master bedroom! I have never lived in a home with a master bedroom that has a master bathroom. I can't imagine how lively that must be. I live in an old rustic cabin in the forest. We have 1 bathroom for 4. I love your taste in EVERYTHING! I wonder how my cabin would feel if I copy your style?
I enjoy your videos so much! Oh what a beautiful back yard you have! I love It!
As I was watching your video, I saw your books, I only have 2 of them, so I see I need to order the 3rd one! Thank you for sharing your absolutely lovely home and family! Have a great week!"


Hi Rhonda, an old rustic cabin in the woods sounds pretty amazing to me. I love the mountains! Thank you for watching.

Today I would love to know... have you ever used herbal remedies for healing? Let us know and your comment could be chosen as comment of the week on the blog. I'll see you tomorrow for a new episode of Natural Home with Jennifer.



Visit my Author Website

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FTC: This is not a sponsored post. All opinions are my own. This post does contain affiliate links.

3.08.2018

My Interview with TeriGigi + Marie Antoinette & The Hidden Door of Versailles

5:21 AM 1 Comments


Today I'm interviewing the fabulous Teri Reynolds on her new book,Marie Antoinette and the Hidden Door of Versailles.



Here is the book's description:


Follow Marie Antoinette on an unexpected journey where she must choose between love and duty. Place: The Palace of Versailles Date: November 1773 A young Marie Antoinette has left her home in Austria and fulfilled her duty to marry Louis XVI. Late one night she steps through a hidden door and enters a world she does not know or understand. She must find courage and resourcefulness in order to survive. On her journey she encounters 2 strangers: a young man who seems honest and trustworthy, and an older, sinister man who looks at her with knowing eyes. When she inadvertently finds out her future fate, the stakes grow high. Her very life hangs in the balance. Marie's sense of duty and loyalty demands that she find a way back to her former life, but she is torn. She has a choice to make. The door stands open... but time will not stand still.


Teri has a wonderful YouTube channel called, TeriGigi.

I had the opportunity to read Teri's rough draft for this debut novel and I found it unexpected, fun and intriguing. Well done, Teri!

Mentioned in the video: Teri's Review of Polish Your Poise with Madame Chic and Teri's review of At Home with Madame Chic.

I hope you enjoy today's interview with Teri. We discuss writing, Marie Antoinette, what it's like to be YouTuber and so much more.

News


My new eCourse, Chic Financial Principles for Debt-Free Living, is receiving rave reviews! Thank you to all who have taken the course and commented. Here are some sample testimonials:

Nikki writes, "Hello Jennifer, I needed this. Honestly, I just bought the course because I want to support you I just realized that it actually helped me. A lot. Thank you so much."

Rhina F writes, "Jennifer, thank you very much for this wonderful course and for making it so affordable for everyone. I love the ideas and tips you shared. Regards from Spain!"

Sarah writes, "What a wonderful course - thank you for making it so affordable. It’s given me a lot to think about and has inspired me to continue to make positive changes in my debt free journey."



On Instagram
Don't you just love this picture featuring Lessons from Madame Chic?


Comment of the Week
This comment was taken from my author guestbook. Gail writes, "Dearest Jennifer,
I am 61 and just found you last week! I reserved all three of your books from my local library and read them all in one week. Then I purchased your Lessons From Madame Chic in hardcover for me to keep and reread! You have rocked my world, you darling girl. You have me thinking about my presentation in a way that I never have before. I realize now that my mother completely embodied the grace and poise and chic that you describe. As for me, I settled for yoga pants and worn out jeans. I am now curating my wardrobe like never before and giving it a big upgrade and am so excited about the changes. I only wish I had found this advice as a young woman. I cringe when I see some of my young life photos! You were lucky to have gained this knowledge and insight at such a young age. I am so grateful to you Jennifer …better late than never! I look forward to a chic last act for myself and to visiting you often on the Daily Connoisseur!"

Gail, thank you so much for visiting my guestbook and leaving me this great comment. I am so excited for you and the changes in your life. It sounds like your mother was an amazing woman. Thank you for your support!

Today I would love to know your thoughts on my interview with Teri. Your comment could be chosen as comment of the week on the blog! See you on Monday for skincare week on The Daily Connoisseur.


Visit my Author Website

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Twitter @JL_Scott

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Take my eCourse Chic Financial Principles for Debt-Free Living

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FTC: This is not a sponsored post. All opinions are my own. This post may contain affiliate links.

5.25.2017

Classic Beauty: The History of Makeup | Book Review

6:09 AM 3 Comments


Today, I am reviewing Classic Beauty: The History of Makeup by Gabriela Hernandez. Ms. Hernandez is the founder of Besame Cosmetics, and has created a guide to makeup all the way from antiquity to modern day, full of beautiful full-color images and pictures of vintage makeup.



The definition of a beautiful face has never been constant. See how political and social climates have molded accepted beauty rituals and the evolution of cosmetics from ancient times through today. This updated and refreshed reference book chronicles historic trends for the eyes, lips,and face, and offers in-depth aesthetic reviews of each decade from the1920s to today. Follow the fascinating history of cosmetic trends vintage ads; detailed makeup application guides;and profiles of famous makeup innovators, connoisseurs, and iconic faces. Over 450 images, timelines, and detailed vintage color palettes show the changing definitions of beauty and document makeup innovations(the first mascara, lipstick, eye shadow, etc.) that have evolved throughout the history of cosmetics. This is an ideal reference for the professional makeup artist, cosmetologist, educator, student, and general makeup enthusiasts.


This book will provide hours of interest to the makeup enthusiast. I particularly enjoyed the section on Victorian beauty as the Victorian era is my favorite in history! The two Victorian books I mention in my video are: How to be a Victorian and Inside the Victorian Home.

Please note: There is a discrepancy in the timeline on page 30, as Queen Elizabeth l died in 1603, but the timeline references her in 1630. I contacted the publisher about this and I have a statement from Ms. Hernandez on the matter. I asked if the timeline implies that Queen Elizabeth l 's influence for makeup came after her death.

"Yes, the idea is that makeup was popularized by her influence, not necessarily just during her life. These movements take time, and popular opinion and customs change very gradually, in decades of time. Thank you for pointing that out."

I appreciate Schiffer publishing and Gabriela Hernandez's response to my query!

I hope you enjoy taking a look inside Classic Beauty in today's video.


News
Off the Shelf lists Lessons from Madame Chic as one of 7 Books for Unabashed Francophiles.

Join our E.F. Benson Mapp & Lucia book club! It's not too late to start to read the books. Gather your questions as in an upcoming post I'll be taking your questions you'd like to discuss in the book club.



Comment of the Week

Regarding Monday's post, What I Look Like in the Middle of the Day, Lauren writes:
Hi Jennifer, This was honestly one of my favorite videos you've posted on The Daily Connoisseur. I have three very small children and have been wearing my hair lately in a top knot most days of the week. (So much so that my three year old started drawing my likeness with a top knot, haha.) I felt if I didn't have my hair or makeup done nicely, I couldn't put on nice clothing. This past week I've been trying a little harder and remembering that washed hair in a topknot and presentable clothes are better than the alternative. This video gave me so much encouragement in continuing. Also, thank you for the tip about the cookie batter!
Lauren


Hi Lauren, I loved your anecdote about your daughter drawing the top knot. That just goes to show that our children are paying attention to how we present ourselves, whether we know it or not!

Thank you to Schiffer Publishing for sending me Classic Beauty: The History of Makeup to review. My favorite era is the Victorian period. Today, I would love to know what your favorite time period is in history for beauty and fashion and your comment could be chosen as comment of the week on the blog!


Visit my Author Website

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FTC: This is not a sponsored post. All opinions are my own. Links may be affiliate.

10.06.2016

Paris Nights Interview with Cliff Simon and Loren Stephens

8:57 AM 5 Comments


I had the wonderful opportunity of interviewing the authors of Paris Nights: My Year at the Moulin Rouge, Cliff Simon and Loren Stephens.



Cliff served as principal dancer at the Moulin Rouge, and I could not wait to interview him about his favorite things to do in Paris. I hope you check out our fun interview as we discuss our favorite city, along with the lovely Loren Stephens of Write Wisdom.

If you are unable to see the video above, click here, look in the sidebar of this blog, or visit my channel www.youtube.com/TheDailyConnoisseur

Here is the description of Paris Nights from Amazon:

Little did Cliff Simon know that a single phone call and a one-way ticket to Paris would ultimately change his life forever. Now the acclaimed television and film actor shares his journey from Johannesburg to the Moulin Rouge to Hollywood in his debut memoir, Paris Nights: My Year at the Moulin Rouge.
From a young age Cliff Simon knew he was headed towards big places. Having grown up as both a skilled gymnast and a competitive swimmer, performance was in his blood. But with the onset of Apartheid and the looming threat of war, he and his Jewish family soon retreated from Johannesburg, South Africa to the London countryside. Before he knew it, he joined the British swim team and was near Olympics-bound with a full-ride offer to a United States university. But something wasn't quite right. Instead, Cliff returned home and enlisted in the South African Air Force. Cliff's habit of impulsive risk-taking would continue but ultimately pave the foundation for an experience most of us would only dream of.
After he was honorably discharged, twenty-seven-year-old Cliff worked a series of odd jobs at a resort near the Indian Ocean until he received a phone call from an old friend inviting him to join him at the iconic Moulin Rouge. Here begins the story of Cliff's meteoric rise at the Moulin from swing dancer to principal in the glamour filled show, Formidable; his offstage encounters with street thugs and diamond smugglers; and the long nights filled with after parties and his pick of gorgeous women. Encounter the magic, the mayhem, and the glory that was and still is the Moulin Rouge.



Follow Cliff on Twitter @cliffmsimon, Visit his website www.cliffsimon.com and IMDB page

Learn more about Loren Stephens on her website, Write Wisdom .




Please note: Paris Nights contains adult language and themes and may not be suitable for younger readers.

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