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Thursday, January 31, 2013

MBS 2013 Reading List

Here is my 2013 reading list which I will update monthly or so. Most books have linked reviews - click on the title to go to the review or to the title where a review should be linked.

JANUARY 2013
  1. Book Review: Last Chance Christmas by Hope Ramsay; Contemporary, Holiday; my rating 4.5. 
  2. Book Review: The Reluctant Countess by Wendy Vella; Historical Romance; my rating 4.25.
  3. Book Review: Rise of the Fire Tamers by Kailin Gow. Fantasy, Adventure; my rating 4.5.
  4. Broken Pieces by T.L. Highley, Genre: Inspirational My rating: 4.5. This is a very short story recognizing that we each have brokenness in our lives but their is a way to be restored to wholeness. I enjoyed the mystery quality of the story and the wonderful redemptive message. This was a nice taste and I would like to read a full novel by this author.
  5. Book Review: The Publicist by Christina George; Contemporary Romance; my rating 4.0.
  6. Audio Book Review: Cat Bearing Gifts by Shirley Rosseau; Cozy Mystery; my rating 4.0.
  7. Book Review: The Blessed and The Damned by Michael Wallace; Thriller; my rating 4.25.
  8. Audio Book Review: Natalie's Journey Back to Love by E. Jene Beres; Christian; my rating 4.25.
  9. Book Review: A Perfect Match by Janice Hanna. Christian, Cozy Mystery; my rating 4.25.
  10. Book Review: Dead Running by Cami Checketts; Romantic Suspense; my rating 4.75.
  11. Book Review: Dying to Run by Cami Checketts; Romantic Suspense; my rating 4.75.
  12. Book Review: Every Perfect Gift by Dorothy Love; Historical Romance; my rating 4.25.
  13. Audio Book Review: Ashes of Twilight by Kassy Tayler; YA Dystopia; my rating 4.5.
  14. The Wonk Decelerator by John Joseph Doody - Etreasures Sci Fi Adventure Release.
  15. Book Review: daynight by Megan Thomason; YA Dystopia; my rating 4.0.
  16. Book Review: The Officer Breaks the Rules by Jeanette Murray; Contemporary Romance; my rating 4.0.
  17. Book Review: Journey to Forgiveness by Laurean Brooks; Inspirational, Historical Romance; my rating 4.75.
  18. Audio Book Review: The Lost Flower Children by Janet Taylor Lisle; Middle Reader; my rating 4.5.
  19. One More Winter: A Short Story by Rebecca K. O'Connor; Fiction; my Rating: 4.0
  20. Book Review: Immortal Craving by Kendra Leigh Castle; Paranormal Romance; my rating 4.5.
  21. Book Review: An Amish Kitchen Anthology; Inspirational Romance; my rating 4.5.
  22. Audible Book Review: A Perfect Blood (Hallows 10) by Kim Harrison; Fantasy; my rating 4.5.
  23. FEBRUARY
  24. Book Review: The Escape Diaries: Life and Love on the Lam by Juliet Rosetti; Contemporary Romance; my rating 4.5.
  25. Book Review: Jack Templar: Monster Hunter by Jeff Gunhus; Middle Grader, Adventure; my rating 4.5.
  26. Book Review: A New Birth of Freedom: The Translator  by Robert G. Pielke; Alternate History, Time Travel; my rating 4.0.
  27. Book Review: Three Sisters (Emily Castles Mysteries) by Helen Smith; Mystery; my rating 4.0.
  28. Book Review: Showstoppers (Emily Castles Mysteries) by Helen Smith; Mystery; my rating 4.25.
  29. Book Review: Pandora's Temple by Jon Land; Thriller; my rating 4.25.
  30. Audible Book Review: Ever After (Hallows 11) by Kim Harrison; Fantasy; my rating 4.5.
  31. Princess Salina and the Unicorn by Lynne Anne Bendoly - eTreasure's release, Children's Middle Reader, with Illustrations; 28 pages.
  32. Book Review: Goodbye to Yesterday by Wanda E. Brustetter; Amish Romance; my rating 4.0.
  33. Book Review: Jabin and the Space Pirates by Bev Allen; Science Fiction; my rating 5.0.
  34. Book Review: Waiting for Monday by Margaret Brownley; Historical Romance, Inspirational; my rating 4.5.
  35. Book Review: A Most Scandalous Proposal by Ashlyn Macnamara; Historical Romance; my rating 4.5.
  36. Book Review: Into the Dark by Stacy Green; Suspense; my rating 4.25.
  37. Book Review: Wait Until Dark by M.L. Buchman; Military Romance; my rating 4.25.
  38. Audio Book Review: Love in a Garden: What Happens After Happily Ever After by Mia Jasper; Contemporary Romance; my rating 4.25.
  39. First Love Second Chances by Jenna Bayley-Burke; This was a 2008 Holiday Freebie at Samhain Publishing that I picked from my TBR files. Sadly, I cannot find a link anywhere.
  40. Lights Out by Ann Campbell; This is another short book in my TBR from an April 2009 Blog Contest win.
  41. Book Review: Fatal February by Barbara Levenson; Cozy Mystery, Legal Procedures; my rating 4.25.
  42. Book Review: X Marks the Scot by Victoria Roberts; Historical Romance; my rating 4.0.
  43. Book Review: A Midwife's Revolt by Jodi Daynard; Historical Fiction, American Revolution; my rating 5.0.
    MARCH
  44. Book Review: Lady Eve's Indiscretion by Grace Burrowes; Historical Romance; my rating 4.5.
  45. Arny Armadillo's Pillow by Lynne Anne Bendoly; eTreasure's release; This fully illustrated charmer is for younger children ages 3-7.
  46. Flick Flick and Dreamer by Margaret Karmazin; eTreasure's release; This is her second release too. The story, with lovely illustrations, is about a sweet hummingbird and her snail friend. This is suitable for ages 5-10. 
  47. Book Review: Cursed by Lynn Ricci; Paranormal Romance; my rating 4.0.
  48. Book Review: The Return of Cassandra Todd by Darrel Nelson; Christian Suspense; my rating 4.25.  
  49. Audible Book Review: White Picket Fences by Susan Miessner; Christian Fiction rating 4.25.
  50. Book Review: Thief of Shadows (Maiden Lane) by Elizabeth Hoyt; Historical Romance; my rating 4.5.
  51. Book Review: Lord of Darkness (Maiden Lane) by Elizabeth Hoyt; Historical Romance; my rating 4.25.
  52. Rolltop Relic by Barbara Miller - eTreasure's release; a cozy mystery.
  53. Hometown Christmas Carol by Barbara Miller - eTreasure's release; a romance novella. 
  54. Audible Book Review: Scent of Magic by Maria V. Snyder; Fantasy; my rating 4.0.
  55. Audio Book Review: Silver by Steven Savile; Mysteries; rating 4.0. 
  56. Book Review: Free Fall by Catherine Mann; Military Romance; my rating 3.75.
  57. Book ReviewThe Persnickety Princess (Tales from Upon A. Time - Book 1) by Falcon Storm; Lower Grade+; my rating 4.25.
  58. Book Review: Last Chance Book Club by Hope Ramsay; Contemporary Romance (series); my rating 4.5.
  59. Book Review: Cross the Line by Jack Patterson; Thriller; my rating 4.0.
  60. Shelly the Hermit Crab by Stacey Leigh Malloy, Illustrated by Katie Cassidy - eTreasure's release; Children's - Ages 2-9; Pages: 34 pages, fully illustrated.
  61. Book Review: Girl vs. Earl by Phillipa Ashley; Contemporary Romance; my rating 4.25. 
  62. Audio Book Review: Did You Miss Me? by Karen Rose; Romantic Suspense; my rating 4.5.
  63. Rudy Finds a Home by Lynne Bendoly; eTreaures's release; Children's, 5-9 years; Pages: 36 with illustrations.
  64. Book Review: Sportsman's Bet (Ian Dodge Mysteries) by Judy Nichols; Cozy Mystery; my rating 4.0.   
  65. Book Review: A Shot of Sultry by Macy Beckett; Contemporary Romance; my rating 4.25. 
  66. In the Year 2889 by Jules Verne (Author), Michel Verne (Author); I had this in my Kindle library since 2010.
    APRIL
  67. Book Review: Hammer of Angels, A Novel of Shadowstorm by G.T. Almasi; Action, Alternative History; my rating 4.25.
  68. Audio Review of Civil War (Marvel) by Mark Millar and Steve McNiven; Comic Action; my rating 4.25.
  69. Love is Not Proud by Monica Spense - eTreasure's release; set in Florence, Historical Romance, Mystery, Pages: 131
  70. Book Review: Jake (Wyoming Sky Novel) by R.C. Ryan; Contemporary Romance; my rating 4.25.
  71. Audio Book Review: That Night on Thistle Lane by Carla Negers, Contemporary Romance; my rating 3.75.
  72. Book Review: An Angel by Her Side by Ruth Reid;  Amish Romance; my rating 5.0.
  73. Book Review: Scorned Justice, The Men of Texas Rangers by Margaret Daley, Christian Fiction, Romantic Suspense; my rating 4.5.
  74. Book Review: Sword in the Stars (Book 1) by Wayne Thomas Batson; Fantasy, Christian Fiction; my rating 5.0. 
  75. Book Review: Rest in Peace by Frances Divine, Christian Cozy Mystery, Romantic Suspense; my rating 3.75.
  76. Book Review: The Forever Knight by John Marco; Fantasy; my rating 4.0.
  77. Audio Book Review: Hunter: A Thriller by Robert Bidinotto, Thriller; my rating 4.75.
  78. Book Review: The Wolf of Tebron by C.S. Lakin, Fantasy; my rating 4.25.
  79. Book Review: Magnificent Devices by Shelley Adina, Steampunk; my rating 4.75.
  80. The New World (FREE short story) by Patrick Ness; It is a quick Sci Fi that introduces the series.
  81. Book Review: Ten Reasons to Stay by Sabrina Jeffries, Historical Romance Novella; my rating 4.5.
  82. Audible Book Review: Frost Burned, Mercy Thompson Book 7 by Patricia Briggs, Urban Fantasy; my rating 4.5.
  83. Book Review: Lady of Devices by Shelley Adina, Steampunk; my rating 4.75.  May
  84. Book Review: Jack Absolute by C.C. Humphreys, Historical Fiction; my rating 4.5.
  85. Book Review: Her Own Devices by Shelley Adina, Steampunk; my rating 4.5.
  86. Book Review: Cowboy Take Me Away by Jane Graves, Contemporary Romance; my rating 4.5.
  87. Audible Book Review: Loyalty In Death by J.D. Robb, Crime Thriller, Futuristic; my rating 4.25.
  88. Book Review: Undone by Sara Humphreys, Paranormal Romance; my rating 4.25.
  89. Book Review: Secretly Smitten Anthology, Christian Romance; my rating 4.5.
  90. There's a Monster in Mommy's Tummy by J.D. Pooker, Illustrated by Christy Caughie - eTreasure's release; Childrens, 3-6 year.
  91. Book Review: Brilliant Devices by Shelley Adina, Steampunk; my rating 4.5.
  92. Audio Book Review: Inherit the Stars by James P. Hogan, Science Fiction; my rating 4.0.
  93. Book Review and : Barefoot in the Sun by Roxanne St. Claire, Contemporary Romance; my rating 4.25.
  94. Book Review: Heart of Iron by Bec McMaster, Seampunk, Paranormal Romance; my rating 4.5.
  95. Book Review: New Wings by Donna Stanley, Inspirational Fiction; my rating 5.0.
  96. Audio Book Review: The Empty Mirror by James Lincoln Collier , Ghost Story, YA; my rating 3.75.
  97. Celtic Tales, Told to the Children by Louey Chisholm; This is a collection of three old fashion, Celtic-based, fairy tales.
  98. Book Review: Better Than Chocolate by Sheila Roberts, Contemporary Romance; my rating 4.5.
  99. Book Review: What a Wicked Earl Wants by Vicky Dreiling, Historical Romance; my rating 4.5. 
  100. Audible Book Review: Hexed by Kevin Hearne, Urban Fantasy; my rating 4.25.
  101. Book Review: The Duchess Hunt by Jennifer Haymore, Historical Romance; my rating 4.25.                                                                                                                      June
  102. Book Review: The Sweet Spot by Laura Drake, Historical Romance; my rating 4.25.
  103. The Sacrifice by Cher Green - eTreasure's release; a fairytale-like story of a young woman's journey to save her sister; Middle Grade - Young Adult, Fantasy, Pages: 24 with illustrations.
  104. Book Review: Who Wants to Marry a Cowboy by Abagail Sharpe, Contemporary Romance; my rating 4.25.
  105. Audible Book Review: A Royal Pain: A Royal Spyness Mystery by Rhys Bowen, Historical Cozy Mystery; my rating 4.25.
  106. Book Review: It Had to Be You by Jill Shalvis, Contemporary Romance; my rating 4.5
  107. Book Review: Somewhere in Time, Book 1 of the Crosse Harbor Time Travel Trilogy, by Barbara Bretton, Time Travel Romance; my rating 4.25.
  108. Book Review: Anonymous Sources by Mary Louise Kelly, Thriller; my rating 4.75.
  109. Book Review: The Magic of I Do by Tammy Falkner, Contemporary Romance; my rating 3.75.
  110. Book Review: Paper Roses, by Amanda Cabot, Historical Romance, Inspirational; my rating 4.25.
  111. Audio Book Review: The Wolf Path by Judith Van Geison, Mystery; my rating 4.25.
  112. Audiobook Review: And They Called Her Spider by Michael Coorlim, Steampunk Mystery; my rating 4.5.
  113. Audible Book Review: With Morning Comes Mistfall, by George R. R. Martin, Fantasy, Sci Fi; my rating 4.25.
  114. Book Review: One Day in Apple Grove by C.H. Admirand, Contemporary Romance; my rating 4.25.
  115. Book Review: Jack Templar and the Monster Hunter Academy, by Jeff Gunhus, Fantasy, Middle Grade, Action Adventure; my rating 4.25.
  116. Audio Book Review: Hearts of Shadow, A Deadglass Novel, Book 2, by Kira Brady, Paranormal Romance; my rating 4.25.
  117. Book Review: The Bane by Keary Taylor, Post Apocalyptic; my rating 4.5.
  118. Book Review: Take Me Back: A Give and Take Novella by Kelli Maine, Contemporary Romance; my rating 3.75.
  119. Book Review: The Woman He Loved Before, by Dorothy Koomson, Mystery, Contemporary Romance; my rating 4.25.                                                                            JULY
  120. Audible Book Review: Maelstrom:Destroyermen, Book 3 by Taylor Anderson, Science Fiction, Fantasy; my rating 4.5.
  121. Book Review: Haven Creek (A Cavanaugh Island Novel) by Rochelle Alers, Contemporary Romance; my rating 4.0.
  122. Book Review: Silent Warrior by Lindsey Piper, Urban Fantasy; my rating 4.25.
  123. Audible Book Review: The 5th Wave by Rick Yancy, Post Apocalyptic; my rating 4.25.
  124. Book Review: Quest for the Scorpion's Jewel by Amy Green, Fantasy Adventure, Inspirational; my rating 4.25.
  125. Book Review: West Palm Part 1: The Undertaker's Apprentice by  Joss Cordero, Mystery; my rating 4.0.
  126. Audio Book Review: The Deliverers: Sharky and the Jewel by Gregory S. Slomba, Middle Grade, Fantasy Adventure; my rating 4.25.
  127. Book Review: Blood and Bone by Don Hoesel, Triller; my rating 3.75.
  128. Audio Book Review: Maiden Voyage of the Rio Grande by Michael Coorlim, Steampunk, Mystery; my rating 4.5.
  129. Book Review: Flight of the Raven by Ellen Harris, Cozy Mystery, Inspirational; my rating 4.0.
  130. Book Review: Crazy Little Thing Called Love by Molly Cannon, Contemporary Romance; my rating 4.5.
  131. Audible Book Review: The Overton Window by Glenn Bank, Political Thriller; my rating 4.75.
  132. Book Review: The Hero's Lot by Patrick W. Carr, Fantasy Adventure, Inspirational; my rating 4.75.                                                                                       AUGUST
  133. Audible Book Review: Ready Player One by Ernest Cline, Dystopia, Futuristic Fantasy; my rating 5.0.
  134. Book Review: Flirting with Texas by Katie Lane, Contemporary Romance; my rating 4.0.
  135. Book Review: Click: An Online Love Story by Lisa Becker, Contemporary Romance; my rating 4.25.
  136. Audible Book Review: The Eye of Moloch by Glenn Beck, Political Thriller; my rating 4.25.
  137. Book Review: Windshift by Joyce Faulkner , Historical Fiction; my rating 4.5.
  138. Book Review and ARC Giveaway: Revenge by Debra Webb, Romantic Suspense; my rating 4.5.
  139. Audible Book Review: The Giver by Lois Lowry, Dystopia; my rating 4.25.
  140. Book Review: The Companions, The Sundering, Book I by R.A. Salvatore, Fantasy; my rating 4.5.
  141. Book Review: Guilty as Sin by Jami Alden, Romantic Suspense; my rating 4.25.
  142. Book Review: A Most Devilish Rogue by Ashlyn Macnamara, Historical Romance; my rating 4.25.
  143. Audible Book Review: Death of a Dyer by Eleanor Kuhns, Historical Mystery; my rating 4.0.
  144. Audio Book Review: Paradox Resolution: A Spider Webb Novel by K.A. Bedford, Time Travel, Action, Sci Fi; my rating 4.5.
  145. Book Review: Ruthless: Faces of Evil, Book 6 by Debra Webb, Romantic Suspense; my rating 4.5.
  146. Audio Book Review: Distant Thunders: Destroymen, Book 4 by Taylor Anderson, Alternate Universe, Sci Fi; my rating 4.75.
  147. Book Review: The Godborn, The Sundering, Book II by Paul S. Kemp, Fantasy; my rating 4.25.                                                                                      SEPTEMBER
  148. Audio Book Review: Nevermore: A Novel of Love, Loss & Edgar Allan Poe by David Nail Wilson, Mystery, Dark Fairytale; my rating 4.75.
  149. Book Review: Scattered Petals by Amanda Cabot, Historical Romance; my rating 4.5.
  150. Audio Book Review: Monster Hunter Incorporated by Larry Correia, Fantasy, Action; my rating 4.75.
  151. Book Review: Double Click by Lisa Becker, Contemporary Romance; my rating 4.25.
  152. Book Review: Color Me Bad, a Novella, by Sharon Sala, Contemporary Women's Fiction; my rating 4.0.
  153. Audible Book Review: First Grave on the Right: Charley Davidson, Book 1 by Darynda Jones, Romantic Suspense, Paranormal; my rating 4.75.
  154. Book Review: Convict Dad by P. Ryan Hempree, Cozy Mystery, Christian, my rating 4.25.
  155. Audible Book Review: Second Grave on the Left: Charley Davidson, Book 2 by Darynda Jones, Romantic Suspense, Paranormal; my rating 4.5.
  156. Book Review: Darkest Worlds: A Dystopian Anthology, Dystopia; my rating 4.25.
  157. Book Review: Sisterhood by Deleyna Marr, Romantic Suspense, Paranormal, my rating 4.25.
  158. Book Review: Always on My Mind by Jill Salvis, Lucky Harbor Series, Contemporary Romance, my rating 4.25.
  159. Audible Book Review: Free: Whodunnit? Murder on Mystery Island by Anthony E. Zuiker, Mystery; my rating 4.0.
  160. Audio Book Review: Once by Morris Gleitzman, Fiction, children; my rating 4.25.
  161. Audible Book Review: Shadows of Glass: The Ashes Trilogy Book 2 by Kassy Tayler, Ya Dystopia; my rating 4.25.
  162. Audible Book Review: Rising Tides: Destroyerman, Book 5 by Taylor Anderson, Alternate History, Fantasy; my rating 5.0.
  163. Book Review: My Lady Quicksilver by Bec McCallister, Steampunk, Paranormal Romance; my rating 4.25.
  164. Book Review: Hallowed Eve by Suza Kates, Romantic Suspense, Thriller, my rating 4.25.
  165. Audible Book Review: Helper 12 by Jack Blaine, Dystopia, YA; my rating 3.5.  OCTOBER
  166. Book Review: Lord Trowbridge's Angel by G.G. Vandagriff, Historical Romance; my rating 4.25.
  167. Book Review: When Night Falls by Margaret Daley, Mystery; my rating 4.25.
  168. Audible Book Review: The Time Fetch by Amy Herrick, Middle Grade, Fantasy; my rating 4.25.
  169. Book Review: These Boots Weren't Made for Walking by Melody Carlson, Christian Chick Lit, my rating 3.5.
  170. Audible Book Review: Firestorm: Destroyermen Book 6 by Taylor Anderson, Alternate History, Sci Fi; my rating 4.25.
  171. Audible Book Review: The Chronology Protection Case by Paul Levinson, Mystery; my rating 4.25.
  172. Book Review: Just Ella  by Annette K. Larsen, Historical Romance; my rating 4.5. 
  173. Book Review: Bargained for Bride by Marcia Lynn McClure, Historical Romance; my rating 4.25.
  174. Book Review: The Christmas He Loved Her by Juliana Stone, Contemporary Romance, my rating 4.0. 
  175. Audio Book Review: A Reason to Live, A Marty Singer Mystery, Book 1, by Matthew Iden, Mystery; my rating 4.5. 
  176. Book Review: No Escape by Mary Burton, Romantic Suspense; my rating 4.5.
  177. Audible Book Review: Third Grave Dead Ahead, Book 3, by Darynda Jones, Paranormal Romance, Romantic Suspense ; my rating 4.25.
  178. Audio Book Review: Battle for L.A. by CJ Henderson, Mark Sparacio, Pulp Fiction; my rating 4.0.
  179. Book Review and Giveaway: Lady Jenny's Christmas Portrait by Grace Borrowes, Historical Romance; my rating 4.25.                                                    NOVEMBER
  180. Book Review: Accidentally In Love With...A God? by Mimi Jean Pamfiloff, Paranormal Romance; my rating 4.25.
  181. Book Review: Lace & Lead by M.A. Grant, Sci Fi Romance; my rating 4.5.
  182. Audible Book Review: Prime Suspects by Jim Bernheimer, Futuristic Mystery; my rating 4.25.
  183. Book Review: I'll be Home For Christmas by Jessica Scott, Contemporary Romance; my rating 4.25.
  184. Book Review: Jagged by Kristen Ashley, Contemporary Romance; my rating 4.25. 
  185. Book Review: Realm Walker by Kathleen Collins, Urban Fantasy; my rating 4.5.
  186. Book Review: The Last Christian by David Gregory, Christian Suspense; my rating 4.5.
  187. Audible Book Review: Iron Gray Sea: Destroyermen, Book 7 by Taylor Anderson, Alternate History; my rating 4.25.
  188. Book Review: Waning Moon (The Chronicles of Lily Carmichael trilogy) by PJ Sharon, Post-Apocalyptic; my rating 4.25.
  189. Audio Book Review: Five Million Dollar Cat by Laura Lond, Contemporary Fiction; my rating 4.5.
  190. Book Review: Sanctuary by Pauline Creeden, Chirstian Fiction, Apocalyptic; my rating 4.5.
  191. Book Review: To Have and To Hold by Leigh Greenwood, Historical Romance; my rating 4.25.
  192. Book Review: Accidentally Married to...A Vampire? (Accidentally Yours) by Mimi Jean Pamfiloff, Paranormal Romance; my rating 4.25.
  193. Audio Book Review: The Last Battle by Stephen Harding, Nonfiction (WWII); my rating 4.25.
  194. Book Review: Christmas Past by Susanna Fraser, Time Travel, Historical Romance; my rating 4.25
  195. Audible Book Review: The Adventure of the Blue Carbuncle by Arthur Conan Doyle, Mystery, Classic; my rating 4.5.
  196. Book Review: Unfinished Business, An Angela Panther Novel by Carolyn Ridder Aspenson, Paranormal (Ghosts), Chick Lit; my rating 4.5.
  197. Book Review: Don't Want to Miss a Thing by Jill Mansell, Romantic Comedy; my rating 4.5.
  198. Book Review: Shrouded by Frances Pauli, Sci Fi Romance; my rating 5.0.
  199. Book Review: Christmas at Harrington's by Melody Carson, Inspirational Fiction; my rating 4.25.                                                                                              DECEMBER
  200. Book Review: Traitor's Knife (Five Gems) by E. Kaiser, YA Fantasy, Adventure; my rating 4.25. 
  201. Book Review: Lady In Disguise (The Langley Sisters) by Wendy Vella, Historical Romance; my rating 4.25.
  202. Book Review: Christmas Wishes by Wendy Vella, Historical Romance; my rating 4.5.
  203. Audio Book Review: The New Space Opera 2 Collection, Sci Fi; my rating 4.25+.
  204. Book Review: Christmas in Lucky Harbor by Jill Shalvis, Contemporary Romance; my rating 4.25.
  205. Book Review: The Innkeeper of Bethlehem–The Story of Santa Claus by Scott Roloff, Family Fiction; my rating 4.25.
  206. Book Review: Silver-White (The Great North Woods Pack #1) by Shawn Underhill; Paranormal; my rating 4.5.
  207. Book Review: Carving Angels by Diane Stringam Tolley, Inspirational Fiction, Children, Family, Christmas; my rating 5.0.
  208. Audio Book Review: Fourth Grave Beneath My Feet: Charley Davidson, Book 4 by Darynda Jones; Paranormal; my rating 4.25.
  209. Ten Things I Love About You
  210. Hammared
  211. Let Me Get This Off My Chest
  212. Book Review: Angel Christmas by Patricia Rice, Mary Balogh & 3 more; Anthology, Christmas, Angels; my rating 4.25.
  213. Book Review: The Double Life of Incorporate Things (Magic Most Foul) by Leanna Renee Hieber; Paranormal, Gaslamp fantasy; my rating 4.25.
The end for 2013... now on to 2014!




MBS Printed Books Giveaway Hop February 1st to 7th

Thanks as always to our prolific HOP host, Kathy at I Am A Reader, Not A Writer

Printed Books Giveaway Hop
February 1st to 7th
Ebooks are becoming more and more popular but there are still many people who prefer printed books. 

This hop features only printed books (no ebooks allowed).


I love to support authors and share books! My giveaway is open internationally.

TWO WINNERS: Winners get to choose a book from the 34 books in my ARC/Review List. (Not necessary to make the choice now.)

Now go see what other Print Books are being offered!


Giveaway! Immortal Craving by Kendra Leigh Castle

Immortal Craving
by Kendra Leigh Castle
    Genre: Paranormal Romance
    My Rating: 4.5 of 5.0


    Book Description
    Release date: January 29, 2013 | Series: Dark Dynasties (Book 4)
    The last-and most lethal-of his kind . . .
    Wild, uncontrollable, and powerful, the lion-shifting Rakshasa were hunted down by vicious rival vampires who feared their dark, magical abilities. Somehow one survived, and now, after centuries of hiding, Tasmin Singh reemerges as fierce and fearless as ever at the door of the Lilim queen, seeking answers . . . and sanctuary.

    The human best friend to a vampire queen, Bay Harper traded her quiet, comfortable life for a world filled with immortal assassins, warring werewolves . . . and this hauntingly sexy shifter. Only Bay's gentle touch can subdue Tasmin's inner demons, even as he brings out a passion and sensuality she never imagined she could feel. But when a bloody struggle threatens to tear them apart, can Bay risk everything on her faith in him-or will his dark side be stronger than even their all-consuming desire?


    My review went up a few days ago but I had forgotten that the publisher authorized a giveaway!
    Thanks to the fine folks at Forever Romance, Hachette, for offering TWO Books for Giveaway!

    TO ENTER THIS GIVEAWAY for TWO Print Copies



    For 3 Extra Bonus entries Visit the author's website and tell me something you find of interest.
    Extra bonus +2 for comment on Review.

    THERE WILL BE THREE WINNERS!
    * This contest is only open to residents of US.
    * No P.O. Boxes Please - for shipping reasons.
    * Limit one win per household.
    * This contest will close 10 PM (Central) on February 8, 2013.
    The winner will be randomly selected from all entries.
    WINNERS WILL BE ANNOUNCED on February 9, 2013.
    Winners will have 72 hours to respond by email or the winners form linked in the announcement.

    Wednesday, January 30, 2013

    Book Review and ARC Giveaway: The Officer Breaks the Rules by Jeanette Murray

    This is a fun romance with some interesting conflicts.
    The Officer Breaks the Rules (Semper Fidelis. Always Faithful)
    by Jeanette Murray
    • Mass Market Paperback: 352 pages
    • Publisher: Sourcebooks Casablanca (January 8, 2013)
    • Language: English
    • ISBN-10: 1402265433
    • ISBN-13: 978-1402265433
    Genre: Contemporary Romance
    My Rating: 4.0 of 5.0

    Book Description
    Release Date: January 8, 2013 | Series: Semper Fidelis. Always Faithful.

    Some Rules Are Meant To Be Broken

    He's Ruled by Loyalty...
    Every man knows that you don't date your best friend's little sister, but Captain Jeremy Phillips can't seem to be convince Madison O'Shay to stay away. And he can't convince himself to stop thinking about her, either.

    She's Ruled by Love...
    Madison knows exactly what she wants...and whom. But she won't give up her career in the Navy for any man, not even Jeremy.
    They're both about to learn that in the game of love, it's all about breaking the rules.


    Review:
    Madison is a strong minded, competent, Navy nurse. She’s had a crush on Jeremy for a long time. She’s determined to show him she’s not his best friend’s little sister - she’s his best friend’s all grown up sister who knows her own mind and what she wants--him.

    Jeremy sees that Madison is smart, sexy, impressive and awfully hard to resist. He has to remind himself that you don’t mess with your best friend’s little sister. Besides, Jeremy has other problems without the extra temptation of Madison. It’s time for him to sign on for another tour, committing to become a career corpsman just as his father expects of him. But Jeremy has been writing a novel and wonders if there might be another path possible. His father also expects Jeremy to find a nice military wife to wait at home for him and Madison doesn’t fit that bill either.

    Madison just won’t quit on her campaign to get Jeremy and finally he caves. He thinks maybe he can keep it as a passing fancy since he’s going to try to hide it from Madison’s brother, Tim (first book), and his father.  Madison doesn’t want a limited affair but she can’t argue when she recognizes that two military careers will make it difficult for a family relationship. The one thing she cares about more than Jeremy is her career.

    I had expected some action with the military romance but this story is just a full on romance with characters who happen to be in the military. I did like the characters and their conflicted circumstances. Not only does Jeremy have to decide between his personal desires and his father’s expectations but the story reflects some of the problems that would be faced by a military couple.  There is the added side story of a nice bit of interest developing between Veronica and the third marine buddy, Dwayne.

    Ms. Murray infuses the story and romance with lots of humor. The story is well written and if you enjoy pure romance you’ll get one in this read.
    ~~~~~~~~~~~~~
    Madison's thoughts trying to make sense of Jeremy:
    Too bad men were born without a logic gene. That one, she reasoned, must be connected to the second X chromosome.  Location 858.
    The passion hits:
    And the laughter suddenly evaporated. The atmosphere shifted, morphed, grew into something completely different. Not playful any longer, but almost desperate with need. Location 2897.
    I received this for Review from Sourcebooks. 

    ENTER THIS GIVEAWAY FOR ARC COPY.


    For 3 Extra Bonus entries Visit the author's website and tell me something you find of interest.

    * This contest is open US and Canada Only.
    * This contest will close 10 PM (Central) on February 8, 2013.
    The winner will be randomly selected from all entries.
    WINNER WILL BE ANNOUNCED on February 9, 2013.
    Winners will have 72 hours to respond by email or the winners form linked in the announcement.

    Tuesday, January 29, 2013

    Book Review: Immortal Craving by Kendra Leigh Castle

    This is very engaging action with a star crossed romance.
    Immortal Craving
    by Kendra Leigh Castle
    • File Size: 542 KB
    • Print Length: 400 pages
    • Publisher: Forever (January 29, 2013)
    • Sold by: Hachette Book Group
    • Language: English
    • ASIN: B007ZFIU0K
    Genre: Paranormal Romance
    My Rating: 4.5 of 5.0


    Book Description
    Release date: January 29, 2013 | Series: Dark Dynasties (Book 4)
    The last-and most lethal-of his kind . . .
    Wild, uncontrollable, and powerful, the lion-shifting Rakshasa were hunted down by vicious rival vampires who feared their dark, magical abilities. Somehow one survived, and now, after centuries of hiding, Tasmin Singh reemerges as fierce and fearless as ever at the door of the Lilim queen, seeking answers . . . and sanctuary.

    The human best friend to a vampire queen, Bay Harper traded her quiet, comfortable life for a world filled with immortal assassins, warring werewolves . . . and this hauntingly sexy shifter. Only Bay's gentle touch can subdue Tasmin's inner demons, even as he brings out a passion and sensuality she never imagined she could feel. But when a bloody struggle threatens to tear them apart, can Bay risk everything on her faith in him-or will his dark side be stronger than even their all-consuming desire?


    Review:
    Bay is comfortably human but she has powerful, non-human friends. Her relationship with her best friend, Lily, is starting to show strain as Lily’s attention has shifted to her new mate, Ty, and to her stressful duties as the vampire queen of the Lilim. Bay has met various Cait Sith, vampires and werewolves who are gathering with Lily as she negotiates alliances to fight the power hungry and evil Arsinoe, Queen of the Ptolemy, an enemy sect of vampires.

    Bay dreams of finding a normal mate until a gorgeous man, with strange amber eyes, comes seeking information about Lily and collapses in Bay’s shop. Bay sees below the fierceness to the fear and tenderness within the powerful but confused Tasmin. He is the last of his kind, a lion-shifting Rakshasa. He should be dead but instead he has awakened four hundred years after his pride was killed at the urging of Arsinoe. And he hasn’t awakened alone - apparently Arsinoe cast a spell that put a demon within his body. Now she wants the demon for her own purposes.

    The demon is Hunger and he is a vicious killer.  He wants revenge against the Queen who imprisoned him. Hunger and Tasmin battle internally for control of Tasmin’s physical form. If Tasmin can’t maintain control he would rather die than kill with such dishonor. Yet Tasmin may have to make a deal with the demon to protect the woman he has come to love; the woman who accepts him for who he is and brings him a measure of peace.

    Bay and Tasmin are the targets that trigger war between Arsinoe and the other clans. Tasmin may find a way to protect Bay but it is going to mean giving up any chance of a future with her.

    I really liked this action packed story and the warm, intense relationship that builds quickly between Tasmin and Bay. He is a tortured, vulnerable hero and she is the mere human who proves stronger than anyone realized. Their star crossed romance is beautifully written with intense warmth and light humor. There are a couple of heavy scenes when they finally give in to their doomed attraction but it fits well and is just a small portion of the bigger action plot.  I didn’t want to put it down and read this in one day. This releases 1/29 and, if you love action with warm romance, I recommend you pick this up and enjoy!
    ~~~~~~~~~~~~~
    Bay’s reaction to Tasmin:
    How something so fierce could hide this kind of gentleness amazed her–but Tasmin was a creature of contradictions.  Location 1882.
    Tasmin’s reaction to Bay:
    He supposed it should shame him, that he would want her so desperately as an anchor when things around him–and within him–kept shifting. He had never been a weakling. Location 2002.
    I received this from Forever Romance through NetGalley.
    The first half of the story is set in Tipton, Massachusetts for my 2013 Where Are You Reading Challenge.

    Monday, January 28, 2013

    January 2013 MBS Flash Giveaway

    It's time for my first 2013 FLASH GIVEAWAY! I have been trying to find a date to post this that wasn't during one of the Giveaway Hops because this gives my REGULAR followers more of a chance - as you well deserve! :-) I am surprised to see the GFC numbers continue to rise but I know I have about 25-40 of you who really visit regularly and these Flash Giveaways are a way to THANK YOU for participating at my blog.
    I want you to know that I think of my followers even when I am traveling. :-)
    Here are eight 2013 Hawaiian Calendars as gifts for this Giveaway. (Sorry they are going to be a month+ late by the time they get to winners.) Four wall Calendars for US winners; 4 small ones for International or US.

     Also Bookmarks from several trips!   ALASKA CRUISE

    SEATTLE VISIT

    HAWAII VISIT

    Here are the prizes:  Five winners get $5.00 GC - Amazon or PayPal plus choice of Calendar and bookmark if desired.
    Three additional winners get a Calendar plus choice of bookmark if desired and to the extent still available.
    WATCH FOR MORE FLASH GIVEAWAYS WITH SOME LITTLE GIFTS PICKED UP WHILE TRAVELING. :-)

    TO ENTER:
    •  Must be a follower and state how you follow in the Entry Form (GFC, Facebook, Twitter, Goodreads; email); all links are on the sidebars.
      Open Worldwide. Winners will be picked by Random.org. The first five winners selected get their choice of GC + calendar and bookmark; next three get calendar and bookmark choice- I'll match choices as best I can. :-)
      Ends January 31, 2013 at 10 PM Central. (The next Hop starts 2/1)

    BookBlast with Giveaway Link: Jack Templar: Monster Hunter

    Tour Schedule
    Jack Templar: Monster Hunter

    Orphan Jack Templar has no memory of his parents and only the smallest details from his Aunt Sophie about how they died. The day before Jack's fourteenth birthday, things start to change for him. At first it's great: A sudden new strength helps him defend his nose-picking friend "T-Rex" from the school bully, and even his crush, Cindy Adams, takes notice. But then a mysterious girl named Eva arrives and tells him two facts that will change his life forever. First, that he's the descendent of a long line of monster hunters and he's destined to be in the family business. Second, that there's a truce between man and monster that children are off-limits...until their fourteenth birthday! Jack has only one day before hundreds of monsters will descend on his little town of Sunnyvale and try to kill him.

    As if that weren't enough, things get even more complicated when Jack discovers that the Lord of the Creach (as the monsters are collectively known) holds a personal grudge against him and will do anything to see that Jack has a slow and painful death. To stay alive and save his friends, Jack will have to battle werewolves, vampires, harpies, trolls, zombies and more. But perhaps the most dangerous thing he must face is the truth about his past. Why do the other hunters call him the last Templar? Why do they whisper that he may be the "One?" Why do the monsters want him dead so badly? Even as these questions plague him, he quickly discovers survival is his new full-time job and that in the world of monster hunters, nothing is really what it seems.


    Author Jeff Gunhus

    Jeff Gunhus grew up in Cyprus, Greece, and Saudi Arabia where there was a distinct lack of television. He quickly found books were the gateway to incredible adventures, fascinating characters and unbelievable discoveries. Now, with five children of his own (all who watch too much television, in his opinion), he has enjoyed revisiting his old books and reliving those adventures all over again.



    Kirkus Reviews

    "Gunhus brings young readers a monster-filled romp to read at their own risk. In the first few pages, Jack, the storyteller and main character, warns readers not to read about these real-world monsters that would seem to only exist in fiction. The tone is set--sarcastic, tongue-in-cheek and likable; rooting for Jack is easy...Gunhus masterfully introduces fully realized characters with whom readers can connect almost instantly. The pacing is quick but not rushed, and events seamlessly progress, complete with action, cliff-hangers and surprise reveals. "

    Amazon Reviews

    Watch out Percy Jackson here comes Jack Templar

    Move over Harry Potter and Percy Jackson, there's a new kid in town - Jack Templar, and he will take you on a wonderful adventure of good vs evil, with friends and enemies at every turn. The twists and turns keep the reader on a roller coaster of entertainment in the way of JK Rowling and Rick Riordan. ~ Penny Brein

    Fast paced adventure through and through

    Written for middle school aged students, this book is action-packed from the beginning and will hold the attention of young readers. Not only that, as an adult reader, it was hard to put down, so parents will enjoy it as an easy read. ~ bluejellybean

    Kids will love it!

    Not only will kids love it, adults will too! I don't want to give the plot away but this is a book worth reading. This book is creatively written drawing in the reader to be a participant in the story. There is lots of action with enough blood and guts to be interesting without being gross. Girls will like it too with the strong female role models and the hint of romance. Even though this is a children's book, I couldn't put it down. I will definitely be adding this to my classroom library. I am looking forward to reading the book in this series and sharing it with my students. Awesome book! ~ pixiep

    Purchase


    Book Trailer



    WARNING


    Yeah, you read it right. I’m a monster hunter. Back before I actually became one, I would have thought that sounded totally awesome. And don’t get me wrong, in a lot of ways it is. But most of the time, I’m either running for my life or hiding in the shadows, praying the monster chasing me doesn’t pick up my scent. And I’m almost always scared to death. In a few pages, I think you’ll see why.

         But there are a few things I need to warn you about before I tell you my story.

         First, this isn’t a cartoon. These are bloodthirsty creatures who will stop at nothing to kill. They are scary. Very scary. Second, the only way to stop them is to kill them first…and that gets gross and messy. Third, this is all real.

         You think I’m kidding, don’t you? I can almost see you smirking as you read this. But this isn’t a joke. Monsters are real and the story I’m about to tell you really happened. If you’d rather walk through life believing that monsters are only found in books or on the movie screen, then you should shut this book right now and go do something else.

         I give you these warnings because the story I’m about to tell you isn’t for everyone. Not everyone can handle it. The blood. The gore. The monsters.

         This life was thrust onto me. I had no choice but to take up a sword and fight. But you can still walk away and pretend this dark world doesn’t exist. Or you can walk through the door that I’m about to open and find out the truth about the world around you.

         But I warn you (and this is a big warning), if you read this book, if you learn about the monsters that roam among us and the hunters who fight them, if you decide to learn the truth, then you will become fair game for the monsters to chase.

         Make sure you understand what I’m saying.

         If you read this book, you will be part of this world and the monsters will come after you too. You will start to see things that no other humans can see. The shadows will move when you walk near them. The creatures of the night will seek you out, testing the doors and windows of your house, looking for a way in.

         And, at some point, they will find you, just like they found me, and you will be forced to defend yourself.

         So, think carefully before you turn the page, because once you do, there’s no turning back.

         Ever.

         Once a monster hunter, always a monster hunter.

         See you on the other side.

         If you’re brave enough.




    Book Blast $50 Giveaway

    Ends 2/15/13

    Open only to those who can legally enter, receive and use an Amazon.com Gift Code or Paypal Cash. Winning Entry will be verified prior to prize being awarded. No purchase necessary. You must be 18 or older to enter or have your parent enter for you. The winner will be chosen by rafflecopter and announced here as well as emailed and will have 48 hours to respond or a new winner will be chosen. This giveaway is in no way associated with Facebook, Twitter, Rafflecopter or any other entity unless otherwise specified. The number of eligible entries received determines the odds of winning. Giveaway was organized by Kathy from I Am A Reader, Not A Writer http://iamareader.com and sponsored by the author. VOID WHERE PROHIBITED BY LAW.

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