by Alexis Brink

Jin Shin Do ("The Way of the Compassionate Spirit") is a therapeutic acupressure technique developed by psychotherapist Iona Marsaa Teeguarden, beginning in the 1970s.

I had never heard of it before seeing this book so I have no basis of comparison, but I found the instructions easy to follow with interesting results. It's considered alternative medicine and is based on ancient Japanese techniques.

The soothing, full color photographs of natural settings throughout the book have a calming effect and the first hand account by the author in the introduction gives the method clear context. It's an energy manipulation technique and can be used to treat both physical and psychological problems. Like all 'natural medicine', it is not a substitute for a doctor's care, but anything that helps relieve symptoms is worth knowing about in my opinion.

The first part of the book tells about some case studies with seemingly remarkable results. I'm always a little sceptical of these, not in that I don't believe they happen but in that I wonder how much of the recovery is psychological. But I keep an open mind until I try something like this for myself. There is a lot of anecdote followed by a reminder that this is a beginning book to teach how to deal with relatively easy conditions.

Instructive photographs and diagrams are very clear and detailed instructions about exactly how to practice the method couldn't be easier. Some methodology will be familiar to those who have practiced any form of Yoga or martial arts, such as breathing techniques and philosophy of the body's channels.

The sections that explain the flows may not be as familiar. It's worth reading these and maybe reading them again, tempting as it is to jump to the instructions for treating specific ailments. A symptom encyclopedia covering much of the second half of the book makes for easy reference and is alphabetical from allergies and anger to well-being.

I don't suffer from any chronic health conditions so I haven't been able to really test the ideas here, but next time I have a cold or hiccups or anything covered in the symptoms provided I will definitely be trying it! Testing out some of the holds, I could swear I did feel something. I keep an open mind. Either way, the book is well-presented and clear so it deserves a high rating.

Coworker: I love Caddie Woodlawn. It's great. 

Me: Is it racist like the Little House books?

Coworker: No. 

That's a rough estimation of what my coworker told me and, spoiler alert, she was wrong. Caddie Woodlawn contains bad depictions of Native Americans (I point you to American Indians in Children's Literature for more information). And on top of that, it's just boring. I'm disappointed that it showed up on two of my lists. This is one "classic" that I think we can leave in the past. 

Defensive Play is the first book by this author I have read, and I thoroughly enjoyed it. Davey knows he is gay, but he hasn't told anyone. He is a geek who has managed to earn the respect of his football team, and he is worried if he comes out, he will lose that. He thinks he has it all under control, until Adam shows up. With one glance, Davey starts to become unraveled.

This was a sweet story, with some angst in tune with the story. Mostly, it is about Davey and how he feels, what he will do, and what will the fall out be. It is a novella, so expect the pacing to be fairly fast. There were no editing or grammatical errors that disrupted my reading flow.

A thoroughly enjoyable story, and I look forward to reading more by this author. Definitely recommended by me.

* I received a copy of this book with no requirements for a review. I voluntarily read this book, and the comments here are my honest opinion. *

Merissa
Archaeolibrarian - I Dig Good Books!

Jubilee, a veteran SIGs pairs figure skater, has returned to the spotlight with new partner, Beckett. She was the SIGs four years ago with her husband as her partner, but shortly after, he suffered an untimely death. Vowing never to lose so much all at once again, Jubilee appreciates Beckett because he is hard working, dedicated, and has no desire to her friend.

Beckett missed out on the SIGs four years ago, after which his then partner and lover, Sabrina, dumped him. Finding Jubilee was a godsend, and the fact that they are favored at the SIGs after only two years together is almost a miracle. Beckett is looking forward to the competition, and everything (and everyone) that comes along with the ride. 

Through a mistake in room assignments, Jubilee and Beckett are placed in the same suite, and neither is happy. Jubilee needs her downtime and private space. Beckett needs to get laid, but the Ice Princess won’t allow him to bring anyone back to the room. So on a dare/joke, the pair decide to sleep together.

On the Brink of Passion is a wonderful, amazing story and by far my favorite of the Snow and Ice Games series. It works for several reasons, namely it punches all my yes buttons. I enjoy books where the primary couple already has a strong sense of an established, non-sexual backstory, which is especially important when characters fall deeply in love on a shortened timeline. I also love books that pull at my heartstrings, allowing me to feel the heartache and/or suffering of one/both characters, but also brings me up so high in their love. Finally, the story is well-written, lacking any side stories or distractions that detract from the ebb and flow of the book.

The romantic journey begins well before the book starts - even though neither Beck nor Jubilee recognize it. The pair meshes perfectly on ice, creating an intimacy even though they aren’t friends or lovers. This gives the book a solid foundation for which their love affair can grow. The ludicrous start, being placed in the same suite and having sex on a dare, creates a forced proximity and more intimacy, once again, even though the characters attempt to keep a distance. 

Beckett is strong and kind, funny and determined. There were times I was laughing out loud at his thoughts and actions. He had trouble with past partners and has finally found the perfect match in Jubilee. And once they break out of their standard routine and he gets inside of her mind and body, he realizes he loves her. But Jubilee is so determined for history not to repeat itself that she refuses to acknowledge the strong bond and love she shares with Beck. The give-and-take between the two pulled at my heart, causing me to become emotionally connected to the pair.

On the Brink of Passion follows Beckett and Jubilee as they go from platonic partners to lovers. Watching them grow closer, even though Jubilee is determined not to see history repeat itself, warmed my heart. Their story shares heartache and triumphs in equal measures, giving me all the feels. I absolutely adored their romance and highly recommend it to any and all.

My Rating: A, Loved It

Originally posted at That's What I'm Talking About

Review copy provided by Netgalley