Statement of Copyright

Statement of Copyright

Copyright 2009, 2010© by Reviews by Martha's Bookshelf (MBS), owned and operated by Martha Eskuchen. All rights reserved.

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Reviewing Hachette Books - With Giveaway Contests!!

I am VERY EXCITED to announce that Anna at Hachette has sent me books to review! (Imagine me bouncing!!) They are graciously providing five copies per book for drawings!! Here are the books I received the end of last week!

Since my photo isn't great here they are separately:

The Imposter's Daughter by Laurie Sandell

http://www.hachettebookgroup.com/books_9780316033053.htm

Tamed by a Laird by Amanda Scott
http://www.hachettebookgroup.com/books_9780446541374.htm

One Scream Away by Kate Brady

http://www.hachettebookgroup.com/books_9780446541527.htm

and

Knight of Desire by Margaret Mallory

http://www.hachettebookgroup.com/books_9780446553391.htm

I'll be starting one of the giveaways next week so PLEASE check back to learn more about a new book and join the contest!

Review of Ride a Painted Pony

I have posted this review at the SaSR Group today for the Tuesday R&R discussion and contest. But for those who are not members there, here is the review of another good book!

Title: Ride a Painted Pony
Author: Kathleen Eagle
Publisher: MIRA Books
Buy Link: http://www.amazon.com/Ride-Painted-Pony-Kathleen-Eagle/dp/0778325083/ref=ed_oe_p

Rating: 4.5 of 5

Reviewed by: MarthaE
Blurb: On a dark, lonely stretch of Midwest interstate, Nick Red Shield swerves his pickup and empty horse trailer to avoid a pair of eyes. They belong to a woman--battered, bruised and barely conscious--in desperate need of a lift.
Lauren Davis grew up in the high-stakes world of horse racing, a world that took her to fame as a jockey and into a relationship with a dangerous high roller. Life with Raymond Vargas has turned deadly, forcing her on the run, but she can't abandon her son, and now she'll do anything to get him back safe.
While Nick's instincts as a loner kick into high gear, Lauren's vulnerability tugs at him in ways he'd shut down long ago. A man more comfortable with horses than people, unable to make peace with a past that's left him scarred, Nick's not sure about secretive Lauren. But he can't just leave her. And he really doesn't want her to go.
In the safe haven of his South Dakota ranch, among the magnificent painted horses of Western legend, a bond of trust, truth and passion becomes a lifeline for them both. But soon the danger that shadows Lauren's life and her desperate attempt to save her son will force Nick to confront his own demons. Only then can he fight to save Lauren from hers.

Review: The blurb gives the basics…but doesn’t tell how fabulous Nick Red Shield is: quiet, tough, rugged, responsible, compassionate, and dependable. What’s not to like! I think he is one of my new favorite heroes! Lauren chooses to tag along with Nick and hide out as “Joey.” She is likeable, strong and determined. It takes a while for her to fully trust Nick with her secrets although she is pretty quick to be willing to get involved with him. That didn’t seem quite right considering the relationship she just came out of, but if she could fall for anyone so soon, Nick would be the right one! Nick has already stuck his neck out by helping her and taking her home to allow her to invade his quiet single life. By the time danger starts to find Lauren, it is time for her to decide if she can trust Nick to help her get her son away from the mobster father who wants the child primarily as a means to control Lauren.

I really enjoyed the good banter and sensual tension between Nick and Lauren. And there is plenty of suspense and action for them while trying to hide from and then out maneuver Raymond (and a few government authorities along the way!) Nick’s partner Dillon is a nice side kick and the special stud, True Colors, is a great horse! This is a really solid, entertaining and wonderful read!

A Thanks to Jeanne at Nancy Berland Public Relations

I am very pleased to be working with Jeanne at Nancy Berland Public Relations, Inc. to review some books! I met Jeanne at the RWA Bookfair in Orlando the end of May. She was sitting with Deidre Knight when I went to introduce myself! I had won Red Fire, the first of Deidre's Spartan Series, by taking "Ajax" on a transatlantic trip flying to Spain and cruising back on an Holland American Lines ship! My 4.5 review of Red Fire is posted here:

http://www.amazon.com/review/R1CUKC8RLB5R1H/ref=cm_cr_rdp_perm

Well- I wasn't going to post any pictures of me but Jeanne took one of Deidre and me so --- here it is:

Martha and Deidre Knight at RWA Bookfair May 2009

********************

A month or so ago Jeanne sent me Don't Bargain with the Devil by Sabrina Jeffries which is the 5th in the Heiresses series. I love series! I read book 1 which was recently re-released and the Need to Read and Gotta Read reviews for those books are here: http://yougottareadreviews.blogspot.com/search/label/Sabrina%20Jeffries

I have books 2 and 3 on my TBR shelf and I will have to pick up 4. But now I really want to get book 6, Wed Him Before You Bed Him, where Cousin Michael is revealed!

I am excited because Jeanne has sent me some more new books to read and review! I'll post about those soon! Thanks so much for fun reading Jeanne and Nancy Berland PR!

What's in the Mailbox?

Today I will do a "What's in the Mailbox" Monday.... but I hope I find one for Friday cause I think I would like that better!

Since I just started my blog I want to post a couple of items that came in earlier this month!

I won The Grand Prize Hawaiian Goodie Basket from Delle Jacobs at In Search of Heroes:

http://dellejacobs.blogspot.com/

I wanted to post the pics of my prize because I think the quilted pillow sham is so beautiful!

Plus she sent some beautiful note cards and a tote bag from the museum!

Thank you Delle!

What Are You Reading 7-27-09

If you want to join this meme go to: http://j-kaye-book-blog.blogspot.com/

I was way behind in reading last week! One book done - ouch! I was spending time setting up the blog and commenting at J. Kaye's Book Blog! LOL! Plus the Kindle "shook something loose" so they are sending a replacement due in tomorrow I hope!

Finished reading:
PB: ----
Audible: ----
Kindle2: Waiting for an Eclipse by Karen Wiesner (Book 2 Wounded Warrior Series)
Audio CD: ---

Currently reading:
PB: Spinning Forward by Terri Dulong - 1/3 in - it is wonderful!
Audible: White Witch, Black Curse by Kim Harrison (Hallows Book 7)- Half way - I really like this series!
Kindle2: Chasing Shadows by Lauren Hope - just started but waiting for new Kindle2
Audio CD: Age of the Unthinkable by Joshua Cooper Ramo (thanks to JKaye Book Blog!) - Once I got past the first disc I started to find this very interesting!

Make Life Count - Final Day

Final words of wisdom - dedicated to my daughter, but good for all of us!

Cherish every Sunday!

At the end of the day...PRAY!

....and close your eyes and smile at least once a day!

And never forget that you are a Child of God!

Have a wonderful day! And, if you aren't having such a great day, make sure someone else does! Your day will improve greatly!

(If you want to see all the Make Life Count posts consecutively, you can click on the tag label "Make Life Count" and it will pull all posts with that tag!)

2009 100+ Reading Challenge Completed! Post #2

This was the original challenge I joined at J. Kaye Book Blog!
Sign up here:
http://j-kaye-book-blog.blogspot.com/2008/11/2009-100-reading-challenge.html
Continuing the completed list. I started reviewing for You Gotta Read Reviews and Between the Lines (Writers and Readers of Distinctive Fiction) in May. And, of course now I have this blog (MBS) to post my own reviews here. I have also posted reviews at Amazon and Goodreads and on several Yahoo groups.

Ratings 1-5
RA = Review available may be posted at Amazon or Goodreads

YGR (You Gotta Read Reviews) reviews posted at: http://yougottareadreviews.blogspot.com/search/label/MarthaE

BTL (Between the Lines Reviews - WRDF) reviews posted at:
http://blog.lyndacoker.net/ (put title in quick search)

Read MAY 2009 Books 60 - 76

60. In The Arms of Danger, Book One of the Series Montana Men by Jaydyn Chelcee (EBook) Contemporary Western Romance 4.25 RA
61. Druid's Daughter by Jean Hart Stewart (EBook) Paranormal Romance 5 RA
62. Russian Roulette, A Hannibal Jones Thriller by Austin S. Camacho Mystery Thriller 4.75 BTL
63. Beyond a Highland Mist by Karen Marie Moning (Audible) 4.5
64. Something Pumping by Marie Rochelle (EBook) Contemporary 2.75 BTL
65. The Apology by Zena Wynn (EBook) Contemporary 3.5 BTL
66. First Degree by David Rosenfelt (Audible) Mystery 4.5
67. Reluctant Hearts, Book 1: Wounded Warriors Series by Karen Wiesner (EBook) 4.5 YGR
68. Eleven Hour Fall (Book 1) by Robert Appleton (eBook) Sci fi 5.0 YGR
69. Elemental Crossing (Eleven Hour Fall Book 2) by Robert Appleton (eBook) Sci fi 4.0 YGR
70. It's About Time by Andee S. Davis (eBook) Time Travel 4.25 YGR
71. Ace of Hearts by Barbara Metzger (Audible) Historical Romance 4.0
72. Kate of Kratos (eleven Hour Fall Book 3) by Robert Appleton (eBook) Sci fi 4.5 YGR
73. Three Hundred and Sixty Degrees by Tonya Lapley (eBook) Contemporary 3.5 YGR
74. Ride a Painted Pony by Kathleen Eagle (PB) Contemporary-Western 4.25
75. Touch the Dark by Karen Chance (Cassandra Palmer #1) (Audible) Paranormal 4.0
76. Lure of the Emerald Peacock by Romona Hilliger (eBook) Historical 3.75 YGR

Read JUNE 2009 Books 76-94

77. It's Elementary, My Dear Winifred by Miss Mae (eBook) Historical Mystery 5.0 BTL
78. Claimed by Shadow by Karen Chance (Cassandra Palmer #2) (Audible) Paranormal 4.0
79. Surviving With Love by Rebecca J. Vickery (eBook) Contemporary Romance 5.0 BTL
80. Eagle at Midnight by Ava James (eBook) Paranormal 3.0
81. The Duende and the Muse by Cate Masters (eBook) Paranormal 3.25
82. Traveling Light by Diana Rubino (eBook) Time Travel 3.75 YGR
83. Love Comes Blindly by Phyllis Campbell (eBook) Historical Romance 3.75 YGR
84. Dead and Gone by Charlaine Harris (Sookie #9) (Audible) Paranormal 4.25
85. Where the Ocotillo Blooms by Linda LaRoque (eBook) Contemporary Romance 4.5 YGR
86. Scales of Love by Kim Watters (eBook short) Contemporary Romance 4.0 YGR
87. Fragile Dreams by Karen Cogan (eBook) Historical (Civil War) Romance 4.0 YGR
88. Until It’s Gone - Wounded Warriors Book 5 by Karen Wiesner (eBook) Contemporary Romance 4.25 YGR
89. Men of Paradise by Kathleen O=Donnell (eBook) Contemporary Romance 4.0 BTL
90. The Lost Fleet - Dauntless by Jack Campbell (Audible) Sci-Fi 4.0
91. Right on The Money by Pat Robertson (Audio CD) Financial Resource 4.0 YGR
92. For the Love of Hattie by Pat Dale (eBook) Contemporary Romance 3.75 YGR
93. Liv’s Struggle by Dorris Jean (eBook short) Contemporary Romance 3.75 YGR
94. Shadows of a Southern Moon by Meg Hennessy (eBook) Historical (Civil War) Romance 5.0 YGR

Read JULY 2009 Books 95-
MBS = Martha's Bookshelf Blog!

95. Stella by Colin Galbraith (eBook short) Thriller 3.75 YGR
96. No Greater Love by K. Bruce Justice (eBook short) Paranormal 3.75 YGR
97. Embrace the Night by Karen Chance (Cassandra Palmer # 3) (Audible) Paranormal 4.0
98. Never Seduce A Scoundrel by Sabrina Jeffries (Heiresses Book #1) Historical Romance 4.0
99. Children of the Mist by Hywela Lynn (eBook) SciFi 4.5 YGR
100. Dancing in Time by Violet Rightmire (eBook) Paranormal -Time Travel 4.5 YGR
101. Don’t Bargain with the Devil by Sabrina Jeffries (Heiresses Book #5) Historical Romance 5.0
102. March Upcountry by David Weber and John Ringo (Audible) Sci Fi 4.25
103. Eternally His by Carol North (eBook) Paranormal – Ghost 4.5 YGR
104. Blind Fortune by Joanna Waugh Historical Romance 4.75 at SaSR and MBS
105. The Outlaw Demon Wails by Kim Harrison (The Hallows #6) (Audible) Paranormal 4.0

To be updated at the end of each month!

2009 100+ Reading Challenge Completed!

This was the original challenge I joined at J. Kaye Book Blog!
Sign up here:
http://j-kaye-book-blog.blogspot.com/2008/11/2009-100-reading-challenge.html

Because the list is long I will divide it into a couple of posts!

Read JANUARY 2009 Books 1-17
Ratings 1-5
RA = Review available; BR = Brief review available

1. Desperately Seeking a Duke by Celeste Bradley Heiress Brides #1 Historical Romance 4.5
2. Demon Rum by Sandra Brown (Audio CD) Contemporary Romance 3.0 BR
3. The Forgotten Garden by Kate Morton (Audible) Contemporary Fiction 4.0 BR
4. A Gift of Love Anthology (Jude Deveraux, Judith McNaught, Kimberly Cates, Andrea Kane and Judith O’Brien) Holiday Romances 4.5
5. Murder on Nob Hill by Shirley Tallman (Audible) Historical Mystery 4.5
6. Barbarians of Malka by Justus Roux Fantasy 3.5 BR
7. Irresistible by Mary Balogh Historical Romance 5.0 BR
8. Club Dead by Charlaine Harris (Sookie Stackhouse #3) (Audible) Paranormal 4.0
9. Lady be Good by Susan Elizabeth Phillips (Audible) Contemporary Romance 5 BR
10. Manhunt by Janet Evanovich (Audio CD) Contemporary Romance 4.0 BR
11. The Duke Next Door by Celeste Bradley Heiress Brides #2 Historical Romance 4.0
12. Tween Heaven and Hell by Sam Cheever Fantasy Romance 5 RA
13. Duke Most Wanted by Cecilia Bradley Heiress Brides #3 Historical Romance 4.5
14. Eifelheim by Michael Flynn (Audible) Science Fiction 4.0 BR
15. What a Scoundrel Wants by Carrie Lofty Historical Romance 4.5 RA
16. Dead to the World by Charlaine Harris (Sookie #4) (Audible) Paranormal 4.5
17. Pathway to Her Heart by Linda Ford Historical Romance 4.5 RA

Read FEBRUARY 2009 Books 18-29
Ratings 1-5
RA = Review available; BR = Brief review available

18. Trick My Truck but Don=t Mess with My Heart by LuAnn McLane Contemporary Romance 4.0 BR
19. The Suspect by Jasmine Creswell Romantic Suspense 4.0 BR
20. Surrender a Dream by Jill Barnett Historical Romance 4.5 BR
21. Dead Witch Walking by Kim Harrison (Rachel Morgan #1) (Audible) Paranormal 5.0 RA
22. Jerusalem Vigil by Bodie & Brock Thoene Christian Historical Fiction 4.5 BR
23. Trust Me by Brenda Novak (Audible) Romantic Suspense 3.5 (Rating lower due to poor quality of narration) BR
24. Fire and Ice by Julie Garwood (Audible) Romantic Suspense 4.5 RA
25. The Marshall Takes a Bride by Renee Ryan Harlequin Historical Romance 4.5 RA
26. Red Fire by Deidre Knight Fantasy Romance 4.5 RA
27. Dead as A Doornail by Charlaine Harris (Sookie #5) Paranormal 4.0 BR
28. Dragons of the Dwarven Depths by Margaret Weis and Tracy Hickman (Audible) Fantasy 4.5
29. Lucky Day by Mary Higgins Clark (Audio Tape) Mystery 4.0

Read MARCH 2009 Books 30-46
Ratings 1-5
RA = Review available; BR = Brief review available

30. A Cowboy’s Redemption by Jeannie Watt Super Romance 5 RA
31. Between the Devil and Desire by Lorraine Heath Historical Romance 4.5 RA
32. In A Heartbeat by Donna Richards Romantic Suspense 5 RA
33. Jake’s Return by Liana Laverentz Contemporary Romance 4.25 RA
34. Definitely Dead by Charlaine Harris (Sookie #6) (Audible) Paranormal 4.0
35. Night of Novel Tea by Cindy Green (eBook) Romantic Suspense 4.0
36. Captive Angel by Wendy Stone (eBook) Romantic Suspense 4.0 RA
37. Said the Spider to the Fly by Miss Mae (eBook) Romantic Suspense 5.0 RA
38. The Good, The Bad and the Undead by Kim Harrison (Rachel Morgan #2) (Audible) Paranormal 4.5
39. All Together Dead by Charlaine Harris (Sookie #7) Paranormal 4.25
40. It All Began With a Wager by Lora Darling (eBook) Historical romance four Vignettes 4.75 BR
41. The Daddy Spell by Patti Anne Colt Contemporary Romance 4.5 RA
42. Every Witch Way But Dead by Kim Harrison (Rachel Morgan #3) Paranormal 4.5
43. Breach of Trust by Kimber Chin (eBook) Business/Romantic Suspense 4.75 RA
44. From Dead to Worse by Charlaine Harris (Sookie #8) (Audible) Paranormal 4.25
45. The Island by Heather Graham (Audio CD) Romantic Suspense 4.5
46. Wedded in a Whirlwind by Liz Fielding Harlequin Romance 4.75

Read APRIL 2009 Books 47-59
Ratings 1-5
RA = Review available; BR = Brief review available

47. The Mars Imperative by Mark Terrence Chapman (eBook) Science fiction 4.75 RA
48. Only His by Elizabeth Lowell (Audible) Historical Western Rating 4
49. When a Stranger Loves Me by Julianne MacLean Historical Romance 4.5 WR
50. Heart of the Winter Wolf by Dani Harper (eBook) Paranormal/Changling 5 RA
51. The Rogue and the Rival by Maya Rodale Historical romance 4 WR
52. A Fistful of Charms by Kim Harrison (Rachel Morgan #4) (Audible) Paranormal 4
53. Darlin’ by Jewel Adams (eBook) A Time Travel Sensual Romance@ 5 RA
54. Pandora’s Box by Natale Stenzel Paranormal (Puca) 4.75 WR
55. Mistaken Identity by Sherry Derr-Willie (eBook) Contemporary Romance 4.75 WR
56. Death Dance by Linda Fairstein (D.A. Alex Cooper) (Audio CD) Crime thriller 4
57. Dragon’s Mate by Beth Caudill (eBook) Paranormal/Fantasy/Shapeshifter 4.25
58. Blood Bytes by Susan Phelan Paranormal/Vampire 4.5 WR
59. For A Few Demons More by Kim Harrison (Rachel Morgan #5) (Audible) Paranormal 4.5
BR

Continued in Post #2

2009/10 Lisa Jackson Challenge

This is another challenge I joined at J. Kaye Book Blog:

http://j-kaye-book-blog.blogspot.com/2009/07/bloggers-20092010-lisa-jackson-reading.html

These are books I already have but I will update as I pick more books!

Treasures 1994
Twice Kissed 1998
Cold Blooded 2002
Left to Die 2008 (Won at J. Kaye Book Blog :))

Update: 2009 Suspense and Thriller Challenge - NOT Completed!

Martha’s Reading List for 2009 Suspense & Thriller Challenge
Sign up link at:
http://j-kaye-book-blog.blogspot.com/2008/11/2009-suspense-thriller-reading.html


1. Murder on Nob Hill by Shirley Tallman (Audible) Historical Mystery
2. The Suspect by Jasmine Creswell Romantic Suspense
3. Trust Me by Brenda Novak (Audible) Romantic Suspense
4. Fire and Ice by Julie Garwood (Audible) Romantic Suspense
5. Lucky Day by Mary Higgins Clark (Audio Tape) Mystery
6. In A Heartbeat by Donna Richards Romantic Suspense
7. Night of Novel Tea by Cindy Green (eBook) Romantic Suspense
8. Captive Angel by Wendy Stone (eBook) Romantic Suspense
9. Said the Spider to the Fly by Miss Mae (eBook) Romantic Suspense
10. Breach of Trust by Kimber Chin (eBook) Business/Romantic Suspense
11. The Island by Heather Graham (Audio CD) Romantic Suspense
12. Death Dance by Linda Fairstein (D.A. Alex Cooper) (Audio CD) Crime thriller

Completed in April 2009

YGR (You Gotta Read Reviews) reviews posted at: http://yougottareadreviews.blogspot.com/search/label/MarthaE

BTL (Between the Lines Reviews - WRDF) reviews posted at:
http://blog.lyndacoker.net/ (put title in quick search)

13. Russian Roulette, A Hannibal Jones Thriller by Austin S. Camacho Mystery Thriller BTL
14. First Degree by David Rosenfelt (Audible) Mystery
15. It's Elementary, My Dear Winifred by Miss Mae (eBook) Historical Mystery BTL
16. Stella by Colin Galbraith (eBook short) Thriller YGR

UPDATE Comments!
PER J.Kaye's Notice I have to read 12 books in different subgenres... so I have to go back and re-categorize if applicable or find new books to complete this challenge!

Make Life Count - Day 5

More words of wisdom!!

Exercise to keep fit.
(I know you're walking and working out some - good job!)





Live up to your name.
(Just think of our Bear dog!)





Hold on to good friends; they are few and far between!
(Don't we know it!)











Indulge in the things you truly love.

Isn't this great advice! Final Installment coming on Sunday!

2009/2010 Stephanie Plum Challenge

I am participating in this challenge with J. Kaye's Book Blog.

http://j-kaye-book-blog.blogspot.com/2009/07/new-challenge-20092010-stephanie-plum.html

1. One for the Money (1994)-Listened to Audio CD for 1-3 August 2008
2. Two for the Dough (1995)
3. Three to Get Deadly (1997)

I will start with Book 4:

4. Four to Score (1998) - Have
5. High Five (1999) - Need to get
6. Hot Six (2000) - Need
7. Seven Up (2001) - Have
8. Hard Eight (2002) - Need
9. To the Nines (2003) - Have
10. Ten Big Ones (2004) - Need
11. Eleven on Top (2005) - Have
12. Twelve Sharp (2006) - Have
13. Lean Mean Thirteen (2007) - Need
14. Fearless Fourteen (2008) - Have
15. Finger Lickin' Fifteen (2009) - Need

Stephanie Plum Between-the-Numbers Novels

The Last Peep (Short story in Mary Higgins Clark Anthology The Plot Thickens 1997) - Need
Visions of Sugar Plums (2002) - Need
Plum Lovin' (2007) - Have
Plum Lucky (2008) - Need
Plum Spooky (2009) - Need


Other Janet Evanovich books I have that I will try to read too:

Hot Stuff
Full House
Full Blast
Foul Play
Love Overboard

I was right - that's 12 that I already have in that pile!!
That's a "plum" lot of reading to do! LOL

Make Life Count - Day 4

More advise to my daughter (and myself too! - how 'bout you?)

Love someone with all of your heart.

Share with friends.

It will get better.

There is always someone who loves you more than you know.

*

*

*

*

*

More to come!

eBook Reading Challenge 2009 Completed!

Martha’s eBook Reading Challenge 2009 (J. Kaye Book Blog #60)
Started in March with the new Kindle2!!

1. Night of Novel Tea by Cindy Green Romantic (eBook) Suspense
2. Captive Angel by Wendy Stone (eBook) Romantic Suspense
3. Said the Spider to the Fly by Miss Mae (eBook) Romantic Suspense
4. It All Began With a Wager by Lora Darling (eBook) Historical romance four Vignettes
5. Breach of Trust by Kimber Chin (eBook) Business/Romantic Suspense
6.. The Mars Imperative by Mark Terrence Chapman (eBook) Science fiction
7. Heart of the Winter Wolf by Dani Harper (eBook) Paranormal/Changling
8. Darlin’ by Jewel Adams (eBook) A Time Travel Sensual Romance
9. Mistaken Identity by Sherry Derr-Willie (eBook) Contemporary Romance
10. Dragon’s Mate by Beth Caudill (eBook) Paranormal/Fantasy/Shapeshifter

Completed in April 2009

YGR (You Gotta Read Reviews) reviews posted at: http://yougottareadreviews.blogspot.com/search/label/MarthaE

BTL (Between the Lines Reviews - WRDF) reviews posted at:
http://blog.lyndacoker.net/ (put title in quick search)

11. In The Arms of Danger, Book One of the Series Montana Men by Jaydyn Chelcee (EBook) Contemporary Western Romance
12. Druid's Daughter by Jean Hart Stewart (eBook) Paranormal Romance
13. Something Pumping by Marie Rochelle (EBook) Contemporary BTL
14. The Apology by Zena Wynn (EBook) Contemporary BTL
15. Reluctant Hearts, Book 1: Wounded Warriors Series by Karen Wiesner (eBook) YGR
16. Eleven Hour Fall (Book 1) by Robert Appleton (eBook) Scifi YGR
17. Elemental Crossing (Eleven Hour Fall Book 2) by Robert Appleton (eBook) Scifi YGR
18. It's About Time by Andee S. Davis (eBook) Time Travel YGR
19. Kate of Kratos (eleven Hour Fall Book 3) by Robert Appleton (eBook) Sci fi YGR
20. Three Hundred and Sixty Degrees by Tonya Lapley (eBook) Contemporary YGR
21. Lure of the Emerald Peacock by Romona Hilliger (eBook) Historical YGR
22. It's Elementary, My Dear Winifred by Miss Mae (eBook) Historical Mystery BTL
23. Surviving With Love by Rebecca J. Vickery (eBook) Contemporary Romance BTL
24. Eagle at Midnight by Ava James (eBook) Paranormal
25. The Duende and the Muse by Cate Masters (eBook) Paranormal
26. Traveling Light by Diana Rubino (eBook) Time Travel YGR
27. Love Comes Blindly by Phyllis Campbell (eBook) Historical Romance YGR
28. Where the Ocotillo Blooms by Linda LaRoque (eBook) Contemporary Romance YGR
29. Scales of Love by Kim Watters (eBook short) Contemporary Romance YGR
30. Fragile Dreams by Karen Cogan (eBook) Historical (Civil War) Romance YGR
31. Until It’s Gone - Wounded Warriors Book 5 by Karen Wiesner (eBook) Contemporary Romance YGR
32. Men of Paradise by Kathleen O=Donnell (eBook) Contemporary Romance BTL
33. For the Love of Hattie by Pat Dale (eBook) Contemporary Romance YGR
34. Liv’s Struggle by Dorris Jean (eBook short) Contemporary Romance YGR
35. Shadows of a Southern Moon by Meg Hennessy (eBook) Historical (Civil War) Romance YGR 36. Stella by Colin Galbraith (eBook short) Thriller YGR
37. No Greater Love by K. Bruce Justice (eBook short) Paranormal YGR
38. Children of the Mist by Hywela Lynn (eBook) SciFi YGR
39. Dancing in Time by Violet Rightmire (eBook) Paranormal -Time Travel YGR
40. Eternally His by Carol North (eBook) Paranormal – Ghost YGR

AUDIO Challenge 2009 Completed!

This is another great challenge from J. Kaye's Book Blog: Audiobook Challenge Sign-up!

Martha's AUDIO Challenge 2009 (J. Kaye Book Blog #87)

1. Demon Rum by Sandra Brown (CD Audio)
2. The Forgotten Garden by Kate Morton (Audible)
3. Murder on Nob Hill by Shirley Tallman (Audible)
4. Club Dead by Charlaine Harris (Sookie Stackhouse #3) (Audible)
5. Lady be Good by Susan Elizabeth Phillips (Audible)
6. Manhunt by Janet Evanovich (CD Audio)
7. Eifelheim by Michael Flynn (Audible)
8. Dead to the World by Charlaine Harris (Sookie Stackhouse #4) (Audible)
9. Dead Witch by Walking by Kim Harrison (The Hallows #1) (Audible)
10. Trust Me by Brenda Novak (Audible)
11. Fire and Ice by Julie Garwood (Audible)
12. Dragons of the Dwarven Depths (Audible)

Completed February 2009

13. Definitely Dead by Charlaine Harris (Sookie Stackhouse #6) (Audible)
14. Lucky Day by Mary Higgins Clark (Audio)
15. The Good, The Bad and the Undead by Kim Harrison (The Hallows #2) (Audible)
16. The Island by Heather Graham (CD Audio)
17. From Dead to Worse by Charlaine Harris (Sookie Stackhouse #8) (Audible)
18. Only His by Elizabeth Lowell (Audible)
19. A Fistful of Charms by Kim Harrison (The Hallows #4) (Audible)
20. Death Dance by Linda Fairstein (D.A. Alex Cooper) (Audio CD)
21. For A Few Demons More by Kim Harrison (The Hallows #5) (Audible)
22. Beyond a Highland Mist by Karen Marie Moning (Audible)
23. First Degree by David Rosenfelt (Audible)
24. Ace of Hearts by Barbara Metzger (Audible)
25. Touch the Dark by Karen Chance (Cassandra Palmer #1) (Audible)
26. Claimed by Shadow by Karen Chance (Cassandra Palmer #2) (Audible)
27. Dead and Gone by Charlaine Harris (Sookie #9) (Audible)
28. The Lost Fleet - Dauntless by Jack Campbell (Audible)
29. Right on The Money by Pat Robertson (Audio CD)
30. Embrace the Night by Karen Chance (Cassandra Palmer # 3) (Audible)
31. March Upcountry by David Weber and John Ringo (Audible)
32. The Outlaw Demon Wails by Kim Harrison (The Hallows #6) Audible

1st in Series Challenge 2009 Completed!

Martha's 1st in Series Challenge 2009 (J. Kaye Book Blog #93)

1. Desperately Seeking a Duke by Celeste Bradley (Heiress Brides #1) Historical Romance
2. Murder on Nob Hill by Shirley Tallman (Sara Woolson Mystery #1) Historical Mystery (Audible)
3. Tween Heaven and Hell by Sam Cheever (Astra #1) Fantasy Romance
4. Dead Witch Walking by Kim Harrison (The Hallows #1) Paranormal (Audible)
5. Trust Me by Brenda Novak (Last Stand #1) Romantic Suspense (Audible)
6. Red Fire by Deidre Knight (Spartan Warriors #1) Fantasy Romance
7. Dragons of the Dwarven Depths by Margaret Weis and Tracy Hickman (Dragonlance : Dark Chronicles Book One) Fantasy (Audible)
8. The Daddy Spell by Patti Anne Colt Contemporary Romance
9. In The Arms of Danger, by Jaydyn Chelcee (Book One of the Series Montana Men) Contemporary Western Romance (eBook)
10. Druid's Daughter by Jean Hart Stewart (Druids #1) Paranormal Romance (eBook)
11. Beyond a Highland Mist by Karen Marie Moning (The Highlander Series #1) (Audible)
12. Reluctant Hearts by Karen Wiesner (Book 1: Wounded Warriors Series) (eBook)

Completed in May 2009


13. Eleven Hour Fall by Robert Appleton (Book 1) Sci Fi (eBook)
14. Touch the Dark by Karen Chance (Cassandra Palmer #1) Paranormal (Audible)
15. The Lost Fleet - Dauntless by Jack Campbell (Lost Fleet Book 1) Sci-Fi (Audible)
16. Never Seduce A Scoundrel by Sabrina Jeffries (Heiresses Book 1) Historical Romance
17. March Upcountry by David Weber and John Ringo (Empire of Man #1) Sci-Fi (Audible)

Make Life Count - Day 3

Continuing Advice to my daughter!

Say "I Love You" often!

Express yourself creatively.

Be Conscious of your appearance!

Always be up for surprises.

To be continued .......

Review for Blind Fortune

I have posted my review at SaSR Group. But for those who are not members there here is the review! It is a wonderful book!

Title: Blind Fortune
Author: Joanna Waugh
Publisher: Cerridwen Press
Buy Link: http://www.jasminejade.com/pm-4525-423-blind-fortune.aspx

Rating: You NEED to Read (4.75 of 5)

Reviewed by: MarthaE

Blurb: They say love is blind, but Lady Fortuna Morley doesn’t believe it. Sightless since birth, she can think of only one reason a gentleman would wed her—for the dowry and three thousand a year her father will provide. She’s in London the spring of 1814 to help launch her younger cousin into society, but prefers living quietly in country. The last thing Fortuna wishes is to cross swords with the arrogant Marquess of Granville.

Charles Lowden, Lord Granville, has decided to take a wife. The bride he’s chosen is thirteen years his junior, but meets all criteria. What he won’t abide is interference from the girl’s impertinent cousin, the outspoken and opinionated Lady Fortuna Morley. The woman is determined to thwart the match. Charles is just as determined to charm Fortuna out of her disdain for him.

What neither expects in the ensuing battle of wills is to fall in love.


Review: This is an exceptionally well written romance. The characters are rich and complex and the special plot is grounded in accurate historical detail.

Lady Fortuna is blind but very spirited! She wants to be independent but doesn’t fully realize how dependent she is in her circumstances. Charles appears initially as a too handsome, cold and arrogant chauvinist. As the story progresses you learn why he shields himself and stands aloof. You also discover that he can be more perceptive and caring than those who have sheltered Fortuna for years!

When Charles sets his sights on Fortuna’s cousin she is convinced first that it would be a terrible, cold match for Juliana. The more she interacts with Charles, trying to hinder the pair, the more she realizes that the immature and self-centered Juliana would cause terrible marriage for the serious and intelligent Charles. Meanwhile Charles thinks that Fortuna is absolutely selfish and a shrewish “Kate” as in Shakespeare’s Taming of the Shrew. In his determination to obstruct her interference he doesn’t even see the self absorbed, shallowness of young Juliana, nor his own attraction to Fortuna!

When Charles finally recognizes Fortuna’s fears he realizes that her family has handicapped her more than helped her. Charles realizes that he can help Fortuna find freedom with his strengths. But Fortuna is convinced that she is just a passing flirtation and that Charles will still marry Juliana.
Even though I did not initially like Charles’ character, my early impressions were that there are “jewels” in this book! I loved how this story deals with the difficulties and struggles, physically and emotionally, that Fortuna’s blindness causes, as well as showing the different senses that are enhanced because of her disability. It is emotionally touching to read the ways that Charles finds to help her. These flawed characters are less than perfect which makes them more “human” and real! It was a lovely journey to watch the initial antagonism and snipping slowly turn to a type of friendship, and then to a surprising sensual awareness between them. This is a beautiful, poignant story of “hate” turning to “love”. Read this book and experience the richness!

What are You Reading Monday

 7/20/09

Finished reading:
PB: Blind Fortune by Joanna Waugh
Audible: The Outlaw Demon Wails by Kim Harrison (The Hollows #6)
Kindle2: Night Waves by Wendy Davy
Audio CD: ---

Currently reading:
PB: Spinning Forward by Terri Dulong
Audible: White Witch, Black Curse by Kim Harrison (The Hallows #7)
Kindle2: Waiting For An Eclipse by Karen Wiesner (Book 2 Wounded Warrior Series)
Chasing Shadows by Lauren Hope
Audio CD: Age of the Unthinkable by Joshua Cooper Ramo (thanks to JKaye Book Blog!)

Some News on Kindles

I have been getting some interesting news about Kindles and eBooks from groups and newsletters. Thought some of you might find these interesting if you haven't seen them yet.

First it seems Amazon has removed some books from Kindles!
Courtesy of MissMae at The Sweetest Romance Group:
http://blogs.computerworld.com/think_you_own_your_kindle_books?source=CT\

I'm glad I have been copying my eBooks even from the Kindle Store! I have learned to back up any data!!

Next Courtesy of author Joanna Waugh's Newsletter:
1. Check out this New York Times article about concerns in the publishing industry about ebook releases and print books sales.
The Plot Thickens in Publishing Industry

I don't mind waiting for a lower price on eBooks (sorry author friends!) I hardly ever get hard backs anyway as I prefer paper backs. How 'bout you?

2. Amazon to release Kindle in the UK by year end -
http://www.networkworld.com/news/2009/071609-amazon-plans-kindle-launch-in.html
Hope that will help some of our overseas author friends to sell and enjoy eBooks more than they can now!

Make Life Count - Day 2

Continuing to Make Life Count Advise!!

Don't waste food!

Take an occasional risk!

RELAX!

Try to have a little fun each day!

To be continued...... *G*

A BIG THANKS TO MY ONLINE FRIENDS!

As I send off an announcement about my blog I wanted to include here a BIG THANK YOU to many who have encouraged my reading (well that didn't need much encouraging actually *G*) reviewing (it was only a little scary at first) and now my blog!


Thank you to J. Kaye from J. Kaye's Book Blog who has been a big inspiration to me over the past six months! Her blog is a great place to visit! J. Kaye even found my blog site before I announced it when she learned I was working on setting it up this weekend! Thanks for being a fun cyber friend!

Thanks to my fellow moderators at SweetandSensualRomances [now SweettoSensual Romances] and SaSR Promo group because you ladies have supported my efforts and encouraged me! Thanks Carol, Merle, Rebecca and Sarah! I love hanging out with you!

Thank you to DeNita at AuthorIsland where I started visiting in March 2008! I won many books there, mostly pdfs. Then I won the Christmas 2008 Kindle contest and so received a Kindle2 in March this year! That allowed me to start reading all the pdfs and reviewing eBooks!

Thank you to the review sites I started with in May. YouGottaRead and fellow reviewers there have given me a lot of encouragement for the reviewing besides being crazy fun - thanks friends! And thanks to Lynda of BetweenTheLines at WRDF (Writers and Readers of Distinctive Fiction) for allowing me to review there as well. I am enjoying the experiences!

Finally Thank you to the many authors I have met this past year who have been SO nice to me and also encouraged my reviewing. All of the authors I have met online and some in person (at RT Bookfair in Orlando) have been absolutely lovely people. Without your writing talents and work my life would be very dry! You all keep writing and I will keep on reading and reviewing!

I have not yet linked to many of my author friends so please don't feel slighted if you aren't linked yet! I will keep adding as this week progresses! Some of your sites are listed in my full profile for blogs I follow. If you visit me and want to make it really easy - feel free to send me your link!

THANK YOU!

Make Life Count

Today is our daughter’s birthday. She is 22 with a lot of life ahead of her! I want to dedicate some advice in her honor. I will post a little "wisdom" each day this week.

MAKE LIFE COUNT!

Run when you need to!

Give lots of kisses!

Meet new people, even if they look different to you.

Love your friends, no matter who they are.

To be continued tomorrow!

Adding Gadgets & Changing Colors

Tonight I added gadgets and changed background and sidebar colors. Have more links to add but it's taking shape!

Setting Up the Blog!

I took the plunge and here it is! Martha's Blog! Needs some work but its a start! That wasn't so hard. Now tomorrow I will have to spruce it up and start to fill it!