Amazon Vine Review: So Brave, Young, and Handsome

While trying the new coffee at Starbucks, I was also finishing my last novel from the Amazon Vine program, So Brave, Young, and Handsome. I have now posted my review, and of all of the books that I have read through Vine I expect this one to have the broadest appeal. While adults will enjoy it, I think it could also make a great choice for the junior high or high school boy looking for the subject of his next book report. The book is under 300 pages and has fairly short chapters as well.

Until next time...
PH

Followup on Starbucks' New Coffee

As I mentioned in my last post, Starbucks has rolled out their new Pike Place Roast coffee. I think most newspapers had some mention of it along with a coupon for a free 12 oz cup. Since Tuesday I've also noticed a new drink in addition - a Cafe Misto (first on the list, at least as of this posting). It compares pretty well to a Cafe Latte, but the coffee gives a smoother flavor than the Espresso of a Latte. It's not a bad drink, and it is almost a dollar cheaper for a Venti by comparison. The Pike Place Roast is also selling cheaper than the regular coffees. I think that this is an attempt to combat Dunkin' Donuts and McDonald's both of whom have added their own spin on "premium" coffee and coffee drinks. Whatever the reason, it's worth a try if you usually get a Latte.

Until next time...
PH

Starbucks' New Coffee

You may have heard that Starbucks has launched their new Pike Place Roast coffee. I had seen a billboard for it recently, but I actually got to try it this evening. Courtesy of an offer in an insert in the newspaper (check yours if you haven't thrown it out already), I had a tall decaf on their dime. In the spirit of reviewing, here are my thoughts. It doesn't taste like Starbucks coffee - regardless of whether you are a Verona, Breakfast, House, or Sumatra fan, this is a major departure. As noted in the link above, this blend is made from arabica beans which account for a sweet, nutty flavor that is rather uncommon from Starbucks. It was pleasant for what it is, but it made me wonder, "Who is going to drink this day in and day out?" Most of the people I know who go to Starbucks want a bold, rich flavor which this is not. I came across an article from a Houston TV station that has some similar questions. Perhaps they are trying to reach out to a new customer base, but it seems that they are tampering with their formula of success. If you get a chance to try it, I'd love to hear your thoughts.

Until next time...
PH

Amazon Vine Review: P2 DVD

This was an interesting change of pace. I had not selected a DVD from the Vine program yet, but they only had one book and no music this month. So as I mentioned in my last post I decided to give P2 a shot, and as you will see in my review, it was worth a watch. I had a great headline for a negative review if it had been a real clunker. On the front cover the subheading is "A New Level of Terror", and I was set use "It should have said A New Level of Terrible!". Oh well, someone else who thinks less of it may come up with that. I have to admit that it's not terribly original.

Until next time...
PH

Amazon Vine Review: A Fraction of the Whole

I had mentioned previously that I was reading A Fraction of the Whole through Amazon's Vine program. Well I've finished the 500+ pages, and just posted my review. It was an interesting read. Much of the content goes against what I believe, but I think that you grow when you understand opposing views without losing your own.

In addition Vine now has a secondary offering each month a week after the initial batch. I took a couple of additional selections that I will be reviewing over the next couple of weeks. One is a shorter book called So Brave, Young and Handsome and the other is a DVD for a thriller called P2. I initially dismissed the novel because I thought the title sounded like it was targeted for women. However, the synopsis actually sounded pretty interesting. On the DVD, the trailer looked like it would be worth a watch on Amazon's dime. I guess we'll find out.

Until next time...
PH

Amazon Vine Review: Logitech Squeezebox Music System

Hot off the press is my review of the Logitech Squeezebox Duet Network Music System. For me this is pretty close to the coolest gadget I've come across. I love music, and this product brings the music worlds of the PC and stereo together - even if they are in different rooms! Enjoy.

Until next time...
PH

Amazon Vine Review: Philips Sonicare Toothbrush

My review of the Philips Sonicare FlexCare Rechargeable Sonic Toothbrush is now available on Amazon - just follow the link. Of the now two toothbrushes that I've gotten from Vine, this is definitely the winner. Stay tuned for my other reviews coming to a web browser near you.

Until next time...
PH