Martha's Bookshelf***Friday Pick Giveaway January 31, 2014

[** If you are new to Friday Pick Giveaway - Welcome!  Scroll down a bit (below book group #19) for instructions on how to enter.]

January is a wrap with more cold weather this week - including ice and two days of government and school closings!  It's been a long week for me with year end tax reports due as well as other work. I just keep plugging away at the papers on my desk.  ***New Book Group linked below!

I had another bad weekend but the week has been good.

More details at My Cancer Journey. 

[UPDATED NOTE - US entrants I prefer, please, that you pick a book as that is the first purpose of this giveaway - to find new homes for books. The GCs are for the international entrants because postage has jumped up.]

Thank you to all who entered the January 24 Pick. There was one Automatic win again this week.  (Automatic winners are those who requested the book four times and I did not note other people asking for that book during those weeks). There was one title blocked.
Carol L gets Hawk's Pursuit

CONGRATULATIONS
to Random.org picked Winners from January 24 Pick:
Linda gets a GC

Booklady gets Shades of Scarlet

All winners please fill in the Winner's Acceptance Form or email me to confirm your win, send your snail mail address information and let me know if you would like bookmarks - sensual, sexy or sweet bookmarks. {The form is new because Google changed their forms and the old one wasn't letting me print out the responses.}

Awesome thought!

Image found on Books Are My Drug of Choice at Pinterest.

New Book Group #45 January 31, 2014

PAIRS:
   Deborah Cooke: Winter Kiss and Kiss of Fate
   Fern Michaels:  Hey Good Looking and Charming Lily
SINGLES:
Swimming Without a Net by Mary Jane Davidson
Exit Strategies by Catherine Todd
Perfection in Pearls by Madeline Hunter
The Reckoning by Beverly Lewis
Out of Darkness by Lynn Erickson
Lord Braybrook's Penniless Bride by Elizabeth Rolls
Contract Dad by Helen Shelton
Sandhill Dreams by Cara Putman
Hearts Are Wild by Laura Wright
Dare Me Anthology, Cherry Adair, Jill Shalvis and Julie Elizabeth Leto
All I Ever Wanted by Kristan Higgins
A Writer's Dream & A Cowboy's Heart by Vickie Kennedy


New Book Group #44 December 14, 2013

PAIRS:
Rachel Lee
     A Conrad County Homecoming and Boots & Badges
SINGLES:
Renegade Heart by Madeline Baker
Shades of Scarlet by Linda Fallon
Legendary Warrior by Donna Fletcher
Found Money by James Grippando - Abridged Cassette Audio
Every Whispered Word by Karyn Monk
A Lady of Consequence by Mary Nichols
Hawk's Pursuit by Connie O'Banyon
Tides of Passion by Tracy Sumner
Guarded Secrets by Rebecca York and B.J. Daniels

New Book Group! #43 November 1, 2013

Pairs gone
SINGLES:
Father for Keeps by Ana Seymour
Crimson Rain by Meg O’Brien

New Book Group #42 September 27, 2013

Singles:
Silver Feather by Cassie Edwards (pictured and in box but missed the listing.)
Something Extra by Janet Dailey

New Book Group #41 August 2, 2013

Singles:
The Nightingale's Song by Jo-Ann Power
Cattle Rancher, Secret Son by Margaret Way
White Heather by Jaclyn Reding

New Book Group #40 June 28, 2013

Pairs:
      (Angels) Not Quite An Angel by Bobby Hutchinson and An Angel for Dry Creek by Janet Tronstad
Singles:
Breakfast in Bed by Sandra Brown - Audio Cassette Tapes
Star Light, Star Bright by Katherine Stone

New Book Group #39 May 31, 2013 - Plenty of "summer" titles!
Oops - I never added all the links last month so no promises on these either.

Singles:
Shetland Summer by Janet Lynnford
That Summer by Joan Wolf

New Book Group #38 April 20, 2013
Here is a group with many mysteries.  Links to be added as I get time.

Awaken the Senses by Nalini Singh

New Book Group #37 March 22, 2013

As I am linking these titles it is clear to me why they were in my TBR boxes and it is really hard to let them go but I have soooo many. Better that they find good reader homes than sit on my shelves, or in a box, and collect dust. 
Pairs:
Singles:
Anthology: Something Borrowed, Something Blue - this book has spine creases and minor water damage...I thought I had read it and liked it but now I realize it was another anthology I read with Elaine Barbier.
Lady Ice by Joan Hohl

New Book Group #36 February 15, 2013

The Trailsman: Texas Lead Slingers by Jon Sharpe

New Book Group #35 January 11, 2013 (All Gone)

New Book Group #34 December 7, 2012--- (All gone)

New Book Group #33 October 27, 2012


SINGLES - CHRISTMAS TITLES (Better sizes for international) 
*A Holiday Prayer by Deb Kastner  (slight spine creasing)

New Book Group #32 October 5, 2012
- Oops upside down book! NOTE This book has dog bite damage; it is missing half back cover and the edges of pages in the back third of the book... it does not effect the text but I will understand if no one wants this one - A Courtesans Guide to Getting Your Man by Susan Donovan and Celeste Bradley

New Book Group #31 August 31, 2012
I pulled some more books from several of my boxes.
An Honorable Man by Rosemary Rogers (spine creases)

New Book Group #30 July 27, 2012
This time I pulled some books from one of my older boxes.
*asterisks indicate lighter, smaller books possibly suitable for international mailing
The Willful Widow by Valerie King (spine wear)
Wild Escapade by Lisa Bingham
Dancing on Snowflakes by Jane Bonander (postage too much - replaced with GC)

New Book Group #29 June 29, 2012
*asterisks indicate lighter, smaller books possibly suitable for international mailing
Magic: The Gathering Distant Planes, An Anthology

New Book Group #28 May 18, 2012--- (All gone)

New book Group #27 April 13, 2012--- (All gone)

New book Group #26 March 2, 2012--- (All gone)

New Group #25 January 12, 2012---(All gone)

New Group #24 Pick Books November 25, 2011---(All gone)

New Group #23 Pick Books October 14, 2011
I tried to pick some books that would be good for October -
Halloween or dark minded.
Ghost Writer (Shivers #3) by M.D. Spenser

New Group #22 Pick Books September 2, 2011---(All gone)

New Group #21 of Pick Books July 29, 2011---(All gone)

May, 2011 New Group of Pick books Group #20
Luciano's Luck by Jack Higgins - Audio Cassettes

3/25/11 I did get to set up a new group of books: Group #19
Primary Colors - audio tapes

2/19/11 Book Group #18- Pairs!---(All gone).

I have finally updated the intro and Entry paragraphs here:

If you saw the pictures posted of my bookshelves and boxes you know I do have lots of books! And that doesn't include the other eight or so boxes at my office!! And more books as I find deals too good to pass up! I am sharing my book bounty by these Friday Pick Giveaways.

I started Friday Pick on November 27, 2009 and in four years I have posted 43 groups of 16 (688) books to find new homes! (as of November 2013).

I periodically update the lists - deleting those won. You can still go to the Friday Pick list link to see older posts and the older lists book pictures if you want! I am happy to say that so far about 620+ books have found new homes! YAY. I have to update my print out to check the exact number sent out - a few were never claimed.

Note rules here regarding international entries.

Because postage to overseas can be prohibitive I am willing to give a $5.00 book certificate to international winners - Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Borders, ARe, TWRP, ClassAct Books, eTreasures, Desert Breeze, etc....you tell me where and I'll set it up. So for my overseas visitors your comment may indicate a smaller book and I'll check postage or note your choice of gift card.

I learned that The Book Depository does not ship to everywhere. The postage for some of the books to far away places runs between $5.00 $7.00 and $6.00 $10.00 and up. Since I would award $5.00 for The Book Depository to an international winner, as an alternative you may choose a smaller book and we will hope the postage will not exceed $6.00. If the postage is more, or if you want to pick a larger book and you are willing to pay any extra postage beyond the $6.00 I will work with you on that. This may not make a difference to many but if it helps one or two of you to give one of my books a home that will make me happy too. :o)

TO ENTER:

Leave a comment and tell me WHICH BOOK you would like to get from the Friday Pick lists.
CUT OFF TIME IS THURSDAY NIGHTS AT 10:00 PM CENTRAL so I do not have to stay up past midnight to do the winner post!
I will randomly pick two winners to announce Friday mornings with the next Pick post.
Automatic wins are those who requested the book four times and I did not note other people asking for that book during those weeks.
WINNERS PLEASE CHECK THE WIN POST ON FRIDAYS AND fill in the Winner's Acceptance Form or email me at mesreads@gmail.com. [I will confirm receipt of the addresses- well I realize I haven't always done this. But if you filled out the form and don't get the book within two weeks nudge me with an email please!] If I have the winners e-mail I will send a reminder in a week or so....

Thanks for helping these books find new homes!!

Repeating this helpful blog tip: You can right click on a link and you will be given the choice to open the link in a new window or tab so you do not navigate away from the screen you are on!! I use this all the time!

1/14/11 New List #17--- (All gone)

12/3/10 Book Set: #16
The Da Vinci Code by Dan Brown  (postage too much - replaced with GC)

List #15---(All gone)

List #14---(All gone)

Here is set #13 of Used books! ---(All gone)

Group #12---(All gone)

Group #11

Alien Chronicles - The Crimson Claw by Deborah Chester

List #1
Circle of Stars by Anna Lee Waldo

Pick #2---(All gone)

Pick #3---(All gone)

Pick #4---(All gone)

Pick #5
See Jane Lead by Lois P. Frankel
Cold Hit by Linda Fairstein - Audio Tapes

Pick #6---(All gone)

Pick #7
Prey by Michael Crichton - Audio Tape

Pick #8
(sc) = slightly creased on binding otherwise all in good shape
The Jury by Steve Martini - Audio Tapes
No Safe Place by Richard North Patterson - Audio Tapes

Pick #9
On Treacherous Ground by Earl Murray

Pick #10---(All Gone)

Audio Book Review: Flight of the Bowyer by Kenneth R. Lewis

This futuristic political thriller starts slowly but becomes gripping.
Flight of the Bowyer
Author: Kenneth R. Lewis
Narrator: Alex Hyde-White
Length 11.6 hrs • Unabridged 
Publisher/Date: AudioGO, 11/01/13
Genre: Political Thriller, Futuristic
My Rating: 4.5 0f 5.0

Summary
After six long years of political genocide carried out against the American people by the administration of President Benjamin Franklin Luder, the nation is stunned when Luder announces that he is issuing an executive order to suspend the next presidential election for “the good of the country,” giving him an unprecedented, and unconstitutional, third term as president. Luder has slowly and systematically robbed the citizens of various liberties and freedoms through similar acts, and in the process he has nearly destroyed the once-greatest country on earth. However, his environmental policy of “green communism” has done the most damage of all, resulting in a nationwide energy slowdown which has crippled every level of industry. It now costs the average American eleven dollars for every gallon of gasoline they put in their tanks, and in winter the elderly freeze like cordwood in their unheated homes because they cannot afford heating oil. (For full description link on title.)

Like any clever Svengali, Luder does not suffer from a lack of visionary delusions. Idaho’s unspoiled Sawtooth Mountain Range is rich in thorium, a much safer and cleaner alternative to the uranium currently used in the few nuclear power plants in the country that still exist. It is said that one thorium mine, located near the small mining town of Ransom, Idaho, contains enough energy to power every city in the United States for the next five hundred years. However, the mine is on private property and surrounded by federal lands.

Like any clever Svengali, Luder does not suffer from a lack of visionary delusions. Idaho’s unspoiled Sawtooth Mountain Range is rich in thorium, a much safer and cleaner alternative to the uranium currently used in the few nuclear power plants in the country that still exist. It is said that one thorium mine, located near the small mining town of Ransom, Idaho, contains enough energy to power every city in the United States for the next five hundred years. However, the mine is on private property and surrounded by federal lands.

Sean Brennan, a special agent with the newly formed United States Secret Police, sends Assistant US Attorney Haley Hendricks to Ransom, posing as an ecojournalist. Haley is assigned to find a way for the government to seize the thorium mine in the name of “national security,” and Brennan’s orders are to design a plan to get the president to the mine for a photo op and then safely back to the White House. Sean and Haley were once engaged, but after Haley was diagnosed with breast cancer, Sean broke things off. Since then Haley has dreamed of escaping, forever, the sewer called Washington, DC.

On her first afternoon in Ransom, Haley locates Jace Fuller, the man she has been directed to hire as a guide to the mine. From the first moment she lays eyes on him, Jace takes her breath away. But Haley soon learns that Jace’s wife, Annie, has been dead for several years now and that his eleven-year-old son, Josh, is for some reason being raised by his grandparents instead of Jace.

As Jace unwittingly prepares to lead the most powerful man in the world deep into the rugged Sawtooth Wilderness of Idaho, an unseen and sinister trap begins to unfold. Soon Jace will be forced to choose between saving his country and saving the life of his son, choosing who will live and who must die—including himself.
2013 by Kenneth R. Lewis

Review:
Jace Fuller is a lonely man struggling to make ends meet in a small, rather isolated Idaho town. He runs a bakery and bow shop during the week, waiting for Sundays when he gets to visit with his 11 year old son, Josh. Jace used to be a sheriff’s deputy but he lost his beloved wife to cancer and then went to prison for a reason that isn’t explained until later in the story. He can’t carry a gun but he is an expert archer and experienced guide.

Sean Brennan is a Special Agent in the USSP, United States Secret Police, which has replaced the FBI and Secret Service.  Sean is close to the current President, Benjamin Franklin Luder, a very unusual man.  Some might call the President “Looter” as he has decimated the country with excessive taxes, crippling policies, and executive decisions that trample liberty.  Luder is a supreme manipulator, playing one official and underling off another. Sean sometimes thinks the country would be better off with Luder dead but it is Sean’s duty to protect the maniacal leader. He plans to do that job in spite of the President’s own insistent plans to make an unprotected visit to a thorium mine in the rugged hills of Idaho, a place of rebellious freedom lovers. 

President Luder has convinced Sean to bring Sean’s old flame, Haley, on the trip to provide a cover story as a vacationing couple. Sean really wants a chance to reconnect with Haley because he regrets having left her a few years before when she went through a mastectomy for breast cancer.  They hope Haley can make connections with Jace Fuller to be their guide because Haley looks just like his deceased wife.

Haley has no clue why she is being sent to Idaho and isn’t thrilled with the orders when she gets them from Sean.  She stills struggles with her self image resulting from his abrupt abandonment. When she meets Jace there is an immediate chemical attraction for them both and she is impressed by the rugged, simple man.

Meanwhile a local vet, Wade, and two other unsavory soldier cohorts are roaming the hills on ATVs fully armed and looking for trouble. Wade is an old rival of Jace and gets in his face repeatedly. Jace has to be careful to control his temper and response so he doesn’t violate parole.

It takes a bit for the pieces of the plot to begin to fit but ultimately they do with excellent twists and curves all falling into place!  It was a very pleasant surprise to realize how all the details fit together. It is one of those twisters that might call for a second read/listen just to anticipate how it all falls together. I thought this started out a bit dry and plodding but once I could see the conspiracy puzzle taking shape I did not want to put it down. I also enjoyed the details about bows and archery. I was sorry when this ended and recommend it to political thriller fans who enjoy such plotlines from authors such as David Baldacci.  I will be glad to look for other thrillers by Kenneth Lewis.

Audio Notes: This began slowly but I soon appreciated the steady narration of Alex Hyde-White. He manages to present the different characters with subtle accents. The plotting was twisted but I never lost where we were or who was speaking through the audio. The good tension and suspense were conveyed and enhanced with the narration.

I received the download for review from the publisher through Audiobook Jukebox.

Book Review with Giveaway Link: Warrior's Moon by Jaclyn M. Hawkes

This is a truly lovely romance of young peasants with courage to put their King above themselves.

Warrior's Moon A Love Story
by Jaclyn M. Hawkes

• File Size: 977 KB
• Print Length: 289 pages
• Publisher: Spirit Dance Books LLC; 1 edition (November 15, 2013)
• ASIN: B00GPT0OBU

Genre: Medieval Historical Romance
My Rating: 4.25 of 5.0

Book Description
Publication Date: November 15, 2013
Advance Praise for Warrior's Moon
“What a wonderful tale. Made me get all choked up for a bit. Jaclyn Hawkes has truly done a great thing. Thank you.”
Charlie M. in Georgia
They loved each other desperately.
Never in all the kingdom has there been a more brave and protective champion. Nor such a loyal and capable maiden.
He rescued her the first time when she was three years old in a killing storm. Years later, he was still occasionally rescuing her. 'Twas in him to be a hero, and she had a pure intrepid way of getting into the kinds of scrapes that took rescuing. With such a brawny, masculine guardian around, 'twould have been a fair pity to waste the gallantry anyway.
Their childhood friendship between two young peasants had grown into a devotion few are ever blessed to experience. It was strong enough to withstand all their dark age held—danger, feudalism, disease, and unfair oppression.
Or is it strong enough? They truly loved each other desperately.
They loved their kingdom more.

Review:
Chantaya was only three when her beautiful, pregnant mother, Isabella, and her brave father tried to flee the unwanted attentions of the reprehensible young Lord Rosskeene. Unfortunately the stormy night brings an unfortunate accident with an overturned wagon. Eight year old Peyton Wolfgar and his family rescue Chani and her injured mother. Quickly the family learns to adore the little scamp and Chani finds her champion to worship for life.

The family and village help to shelter Isabella and Chani as the know that things are not right with their overlord. As they grow older an intrepid Chani stumbles upon and makes friends with Mordecai, an old knight living in the woods. Mordecai fills their minds with stirring tales of knightly honor while he trains Peyton to battle and even trains Chani to defend herself. Mordecai offers to introduce Peyton to the King’s court and guardsman so that Peyton can proceed with proper training. Peyton is reluctant to leave his family and his precious Chani behind but he knows he must go to serve the King.

Peyton is well-liked and respected for his diligence and loyalty as well as his prowess in training. Meanwhile at home, Chani matures to young womanhood and begins to catch the eyes of the local young men, including Lord Rosskeene’s son, another lech like his father. Lord Rosskeene discovers their hidden cabin and threatens them into working for him at the manor. While working in the kitchen Chani begins to learn of Rosskeene’s traitorous plans to assassinate the King’s family and become the new king.

Peyton and Chani have grown from childhood friends to the edge of passion in their love for each other. But they each have committed to doing everything they can to protect their King and his family...even if it means sacrificing their own lives and future together.

This is a charmingly written story with a delightful hero and heroine. Their young love is sweet, honorable, devoted and the ‘stuff of legends.’ The clear descriptions pulled me into the settings. The danger and treachery is well laid out to keep the adventure moving forward with good suspense. I enjoyed the underlying faith expressed in the simple assurance and trust that the characters placed in God. The reading flows well and makes this is an entertaining romance good for readers who enjoy strong romance, honor and medieval adventure.

I received this title for review as part of a BookBlast tour. See BookBlast Giveaway as well as Tour Giveaway below.

Available for Purchase at:

Amazon * Smashwords

Barnes & Noble

Praise for Warrior's Moon

"This book has adventure, memorable characters, and tons of action. There is even romance! I absolutely loved it!!!" ~Laura (Goodreads)

"I loved this book! Great characters, I love a strong female lead. I really enjoy all of Jaclyn Hawkes books, but I must say this in one of my favorites!" ~ KMon (Amazon)

Tour Schedule

Blog Tour Giveaway

$25 Amazon Gift Card or Paypal Cash

Ends 2/23/14

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 and sponsored by the author. VOID WHERE PROHIBITED BY LAW.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Mailbox Monday January 27, 2014

Welcome to Mailbox Monday.
Mailbox Monday is a gathering place for readers to share the books that came into their house last week and explore great book blogs.  This Meme started with Marcia at A Girl and Her Books (fka The Printed Page) and after a tour of hosts has returned to its permanent home at Mailbox Monday.

Warning: Mailbox Monday can lead to envy, toppling TBR piles and humongous wish lists.

I had two print books I picked for our ladies book club and two ebooks I purchased. 

Are your mailbox and TBR piles blooming?

Reviews

None this week.

Won

None this week.

Purchased

Purchased some titles for Ladies Book Club.

The Sheriff's Surrender (Ladies' Shooting Club)
by Susan Page Davis

The Gunsmith's Gallantry, Ladies Shooting Club Series #2
By: Susan Page Davis
More in Ladies Shooting Club Series

Two Kindle purchases:
An author I collect!
My Steadfast Heart (The Thorne Brothers Trilogy, Book 1)
by Jo Goodman

This just looked like one I thought I would enjoy.
At the Duke's Wedding (A romance anthology)
Caroline Linden (Author), Katharine Ashe (Author), Miranda Neville (Author), Maya Rodale (Author)

Free

I downloaded only 27 free Kindle titles this week.  Titles found linked through Bookbub, Bookfun, Free Par-tay, Inspired Reads, Pixel of Ink or Kindle ebooks.

It's Monday What are You Reading? January 27, 2014.

This meme starts at Book Journey!

What Are You Reading, is where we gather to share what we have read this past week and what we plan to read this week. It is a great way to network with other bloggers, see some wonderful blogs, and put new titles on your reading list.

Last week was a pretty good work week. The weekend was a little rough.

I finished three books, but only posted two reviews, and one feature giveaway.
Plus I posted the regular weekly memes and posts (except the Saturday Snapshot). 

I did some visiting mid and end week which I enjoyed but wanted to do more.
Thanks as always to all the nice people who visit me.

These were last week's posts:

• It's Monday What are You Reading? January 20, 2014.

• BookBlast Feature and Giveaway: Warrior's Moon by Jaclyn M. Hawkes. Ends 2/10/14.

• Mailbox Monday 1/13/14.

• Audible Review: The Fault in Our Stars by John Green; Young Adult; my rating 4.75.

• Book Review: Cloaked in Danger by Jeannie Ruesch; Historical Romance, Regency; my rating 4.5.

• Martha's Bookshelf***Friday Pick Giveaway January 24, 2014. Open Worldwide. Ends 1/30/14.

• Sunday Words of Encouragement January 26, 2014.

• Sharing Beyond Books #136 Comment Giveaway 1/26/14; Open Worldwide. Ends 2/1/14.

Finished Reading:
1. ebook/Kindle

Warrior's Moon
by Jaclyn Hawke
Reviewing on Bookblast Tour 1/28. 
This is a strong, engaging medieval romance. 
I will post my review on 1/28.

Book Description
Publication Date: November 15, 2013
Advance Praise for Warrior's Moon
“What a wonderful tale. Made me get all choked up for a bit. Jaclyn Hawkes has truly done a great thing. Thank you.”
Charlie M. in Georgia
They loved each other desperately.
Never in all the kingdom has there been a more brave and protective champion. Nor such a loyal and capable maiden.
He rescued her the first time when she was three years old in a killing storm. Years later, he was still occasionally rescuing her. 'Twas in him to be a hero, and she had a pure intrepid way of getting into the kinds of scrapes that took rescuing. With such a brawny, masculine guardian around, 'twould have been a fair pity to waste the gallantry anyway.
Their childhood friendship between two young peasants had grown into a devotion few are ever blessed to experience. It was strong enough to withstand all their dark age held—danger, feudalism, disease, and unfair oppression.
Or is it strong enough? They truly loved each other desperately.
They loved their kingdom more.

2. eBook/Kindle

Ashes & Alchemy (The Gaslight Chronicles) 
by Cindy Spenser Pape
I really enjoyed this Steampunk!
I'll post a review for NetGalley soon.
Book Description
Publication Date: January 6, 2014
A Gaslight Chronicles novella
London, 1860
Police inspector Sebastian Brown served Queen and country in India before returning to England to investigate supernatural crimes alongside the Order of the Round Table. If his wifeless, childless life feels a little empty sometimes, that's not too great a price to pay in the name of duty.

Minerva Shaw is desperately seeking a doctor when she mistakenly lands on Sebastian's doorstep. Her daughter Ivy has fallen gravely ill with a mysterious illness—the same illness, it seems, that's responsible for taking the lives of many of Ivy's classmates.

Seb sniffs a case, and taking in Minnie and Ivy seems the only way to protect them while he solves it. But as mother and daughter work their way into his heart and Seb uses every magickal and technological resource he can muster to uncover the source of the deadly plague, it's he who will need protecting—from emotions he'd thought buried long ago.

3. Audible

Forever His: Stolen Brides, Book 1
by Shelly Thacker
 Narrated by Julia Motyka
This is an intensely romantic time travel, medieval tale.  Reviewing for the publisher through Audiobook Jukebox.
Publisher's Summary
On New Year's Eve, she tumbles 700 years back in time - and into the bed of a darkly handsome knight.

Sir Gaston de Varennes wanted a docile bride who would fit into his plans for vengeance and justice, but a trick of time finds him married to a thoroughly modern American lady who turns his castle, his life, and his heart upside down. Will her desperate secret tear them apart after only a few bittersweet weeks of stolen passion - or will they conquer mistrust, treachery, and time itself to discover a love that spans the centuries?

Winner of the National Readers Choice Award: Best Historical Romance of the Year

The Stolen Brides Series: One falls through time and finds herself married to a dark stranger...one may never reach her royal wedding if she can't resist her rugged protector...one is abducted by a mysterious swordsman and swept away to a secret island paradise. Three regal brides are about to discover that falling in love with a warrior is the most dangerous adventure of all.
©1993 Shelly Thacker Meinhardt (P)2013 Shelly Thacker Meinhardt

Line Edits/Releases:

We released a new poetry book this week - with a gorgeous cover!
Chapter and Verse by Barri Bryan

Chapter and Verse has one theme—love. Poetry is the language of love. Since human beings first discovered words, men and women have composed lyrical love poems about love's enchantment, love's mystery, love's drama, love's ecstasy, and love's pain.

.... (Follow title link for full description.) 

Genre: Poetry; Pages: 104

Enter the bi-monthly drawings at eTreasures Publishing Facebook page.
This week's giveaway link:  New giveaway to be linked soon.

Currently reading:

1. Print/ ebook/kindle

The Sheriff's Surrender (Ladies' Shooting Club)
by Susan Page Davis
This is our current Ladies Book Club to read for next Saturday February 1, 2014.
Product Description
Gert Dooley can shoot the tail feathers off a jay at a hundred yards, but she wants Ethan Chapman to see she's more than a crack shot with a firearm. When the sheriff of Fergus, Idaho, is murdered and Ethan is named his replacement, Gert decides she has to do whatever she can to help him protect the citizenry. So she starts the Ladies Shooting Club. But when of their numbers is murdered, these ladies are called on for more than target shooting and praying. Can Gert and the ladies of Fergus find the murderer before he strikes again?

2. Audible

Fifth Grave Past the Light: Charley Davidson, Book 5
    UNABRIDGED
    by Darynda Jones
    Narrated by Lorelei King
        Series: Charley Davidson, Book 5 
I enjoy this snarky, fun series.
Publisher's Summary
Never underestimate the power of a woman on a double espresso with a mocha latte chaser high. (T-shirt)

Charley Davidson isn’t your everyday, run-of-the-mill grim reaper. She’s more of a paranormal private eye/grim reaper extraordinaire. However, she gets sidetracked when the sexy, sultry son of Satan, Reyes Farrow, moves in next door. To further complicate matters, Reyes is her main suspect in an arson case. Charley has vowed to stay away from him until she can find out the truth... but then dead women start appearing in her apartment, one after another, each lost, confused, and terrified beyond reason.

When it becomes apparent that her own sister, Gemma, is the serial killer’s next target Charley has no choice but to ask for Reyes’ help. Arsonist or not, he’s the one man alive who could protect Gemma no matter who or what came at her. But he wants something in return. Charley. All of her, body and soul. And to keep her sister safe, it is a price she is willing to pay.

Charley Davidson is at it again in Fifth Grave Past the Light, the sexy, suspenseful, and laugh-out-loud funny fifth installment of the New York Times best-selling series by Darynda Jones.
©2013 Darynda Jones (P)2013 Macmillan Audio

3. Print

New Frontier
by Jeremy Lee
This has an interesting start.
Reviewing for Blog Tour on February 13.
Book Description
Publication Date: November 11, 2013
As a new era dawns for humanity, finally breaking the bonds that left us tied to the Solar System, this giant leap is to be marred by greed and erupting violence. The new frontier, ripe for colonization and opportunity, is filled with the honest and ruthless alike.
Two rival corporations have all but supplanted nation-states, keeping governments around only as a necessary fiction to pacify populations, as the realm of business now reaches into politics, military, religion, and all other aspects of human life. The frontier regions of space, barely able to keep from slipping into total anarchy, are filled with new homesteaders, miners, merchants, bandits, and scientific minds. When one company gains the edge and is the first to crack an engine to bring the Alcubierre formula into reality, and thus travel faster than the speed of light, the rivalry between the two multi-national conglomerates is taken to a dangerous new and martial level. The battle for profits in the market place is now being waged by armies and fleets in space.
The Argos, adrift and crippled far from home, is the only hope for its remaining crew. These survivors of a mysterious attack struggle to hold their ship together and come to the rescue of homesteaders and compatriots relying on them.
Contrasting with the dubious motivations of those in power, the crew of the Argos are people who crave adventure and are above the miasma of greed that sends them their orders. As the great battle breaks out at the moment that should have been humanity's greatest triumph, the gallant and the selfish alike are forced to face the best and worst of human civilization far from home and decide what they truly believe in.

I am up to date with my daily Bible reading. :-)

Line Edits: We are finalizing several formats for two new eBooks.

I am still enjoying reading books from my own TBR. :-) I did however update my list to include the two tour review titles I have this month, the three NetGalley's I picked up and two of the Audios I requested. So that is seven or so committed and open for the rest.
My backlog for review is now five so I have to work this week to catch up.

January Scheduled-
I have several unscheduled Giveaways to get posted this month/week.
1/28 Warrior's Moon - Tour Review. 

NetGalley:
  The Furnace (The Tanner Sequence) by Timothy S. Johnston

Authors
I have numerous requests to respond to.

AudioBook Jukebox 

Making some new selections. 

From TBR Collection -In One Year...
Won Book - TBD
Free Kindle/Nook or Smashwords: TBD

Sharing Beyond Books #136 Comment Giveaway, January 26, 2014

Hello again on Saturday night Sunday and Welcome to Sharing Beyond Books, SBB! (Sorry - I never made it to the computer yesterday.)
Thanks to everyone who commented last week.

We all agreed that we love the zoo and seeing all the wonderful animals! The animal that got the biggest vote was the tiger/big cats with 5 favorites. Next came elephants with 4 votes. Then penguins, panda bears and monkeys each had 3 votes. The others were a variety of different animals - and yes, dolphins count. I'm used to seeing dolphins in Florida zoos and waterparks and there is a fun penguin display at Seaworld but I don't recall seeing too many polar bears. Then again - haven't been for a number of years. Sarah shared a link to view her office with some wonderful elephants, including a beautiful cross-stitch elephant on one wall.

~~~~

The Winner from SBB #135 comments is: #22 Nikki who can make a GC choice if international or book choice from the ARC/Review titles, Christmas titles or Love titles - all linked near the end of the post.  Please let me know your choice by completing the (new) WINNER FORM.

WEEK #136 (One Question.)

Q1. LisaC asks: Do blurbs from authors you like influence you to try a new author??

A: I might read the author blurbs but it would only be one consideration.  

Image found at Out-of-Body Travel.

Thanks to those who are sending in Questions. DON'T BE SHY! Surely everyone has a Q or two you'd like to ask. Input suggestions in this Suggested Question Form. At the end of each month I draw from the suggestions I used during the month and that person will get a book choice or GC. I thank everyone for submitting questions. Thanks for sending in questions! We still have a supply of questions but from the same people so hopefully others will send more in -- even if they are duplicates I'll weed through or try to modify to use. 

Your turn to share:

Q1. LisaC asks: Do blurbs from authors you like influence you to try a new author??

SBB Comment Winners can choose a selection from the Valentine and "Love" books , the Christmas Giveaway Books (to be updated soon), or the June 2012 Newly Updated ARC/Review List.

SBB Rules:
a) Must be a follower.
b) Share a comment on either of the two questions above.
Open internationally and an international winner may get a smaller book or a $5.00 GC if I decide the mailing is too much.

I will pick a Comment winner from all comments made through Saturday February 1, 2014 at 5 PM  central.

Sunday Words of Encouragement January 26, 2014

 I didn't make it to church again today. I had a bad Friday night - I think due to eating wrong foods. So I was up sick much of the night. Then I slept through all but about 2 hours of Saturday. I slept pretty well until 5:15am Sunday when I started having different troubles. So I slept on until about 12:30pm when DH returned from church. I don't think it was the cancer treatment as much as bad food or possibly a bug that apparently many friends in church had as they were out today too. 

This is a song I discovered a few months back and have been holding it for the right day - which must be today!

Hear the sound of creation roar! A praise to GOD! Great is Your Name!

In The Mystery by Hillsong.

Verses for today:
Psalm 148:5-6
5 Let all things join together in a concert of praise to the name of the Eternal,
    for He gave the command and they were created.
6 He put them in their places to stay forever—
    He declared it so, and it is final.

Thank you Lord for reminding me each day of your awesome Majesty and love. Thank you for making me alive in the mystery of your gift!

Martha's Bookshelf***Friday Pick Giveaway January 24, 2014

[** If you are new to Friday Pick Giveaway - Welcome!  Scroll down a bit (below book group #19) for instructions on how to enter.]

We are still having cold weather - using up a lot of our firewood. :-) I had a couple of days traveling to hearings and fortunately the office was reasonably quite otherwise.  [I do have a new group of books but no picture yet. Hopefully I take one this Saturday to add next week.]

Thankfully I recovered from my weekend energy loss. Getting my appetite back now too so this is good.

More details of reaction at My Cancer Journey. 

[UPDATED NOTE - US entrants I prefer, please, that you pick a book as that is the first purpose of this giveaway - to find new homes for books. The GCs are for the international entrants because postage has jumped up.]

Thank you to all who entered the January 17 Pick. There was only Automatic win this week.  (Automatic winners are those who requested the book four times and I did not note other people asking for that book during those weeks). There was one title blocked but (finally) it was won.
LindaK gets Sheer Dynamite

CONGRATULATIONS
to Random.org picked Winners from January 17 Pick:
Rita gets the Mary Higgins Clark Pair after a long block!

MaryP gets a GC

All winners please fill in the Winner's Acceptance Form or email me to confirm your win, send your snail mail address information and let me know if you would like bookmarks - sensual, sexy or sweet bookmarks. {The form is new because Google changed their forms and the old one wasn't letting me print out the responses.}

These are some of the mores I plan on this year!!
(My extra favorites astericked!)

Original Image found at BABYCCINO KIDS

New Book Group #44 December 14, 2013

PAIRS:
Hannah Howell
     My Valiant Knight and Beauty and the Beast
Rachel Lee
     A Conrad County Homecoming and Boots & Badges
SINGLES:
Honor Among Thieves by Jeffrey Archer
Renegade Heart by Madeline Baker
The Fall by Claudia Dain
The Coffin Dancer by Jeffery Deaver
Shades of Scarlet by Linda Fallon
Legendary Warrior by Donna Fletcher
Found Money by James Grippando - Abridged Cassette Audio
Every Whispered Word by Karyn Monk
A Lady of Consequence by Mary Nichols
Hawk's Pursuit by Connie O'Banyon
Tides of Passion by Tracy Sumner
Guarded Secrets by Rebecca York and B.J. Daniels

New Book Group! #43 November 1, 2013

Pairs
Mary Higgins Clark
     Before I Say Good-bye and Where Are the Children
Suzanne Enoch
     Lessons in Love The Rake and Sin and Sensibility
Diana Palmer (Choose any two)
    Lawless, Diamond Spur, Long Tall Texan and Brides to Be (spine creased)
Kate Wilhelm
     Desperate Measures and No Defense
SINGLES:
Never Tell by Karen Young (spine torn)
Father for Keeps by Ana Seymour
Crimson Rain by Meg O’Brien
Dove in the Window by Earlene Fowler
Cutwork by Monica Ferris
A Woman Named Damaris by Janette Oke

New Book Group #42 September 27, 2013

Singles:
Silver Feather by Cassie Edwards (pictured and in box but missed the listing.)
Deceptions & Dreams by Debra Deir (spine creases)
Something Extra by Janet Dailey

New Book Group #41 August 2, 2013

Singles:
Wicked and Wonderful by Valerie King
Tabitha in Moonlight by Betty Neels
The Nightingale's Song by Jo-Ann Power
Caught in a Bind by Gayle Roper
Cattle Rancher, Secret Son by Margaret Way
White Heather by Jaclyn Reding

New Book Group #40 June 28, 2013

Pairs:
      (Angels) Not Quite An Angel by Bobby Hutchinson and An Angel for Dry Creek by Janet Tronstad
Singles:
Breakfast in Bed by Sandra Brown - Audio Cassette Tapes
Dance With Me by Luanne Rice
A Mother's Day Anthology - three stories
Star Light, Star Bright by Katherine Stone
Another View by Rosamunde Pilcher

New Book Group #39 May 31, 2013 - Plenty of "summer" titles!
Oops - I never added all the links last month so no promises on these either.

Singles:
Touched by Fire by Kathleen O'Reilly
Shetland Summer by Janet Lynnford
That Summer by Joan Wolf
It All Began at Monte Carlo by Elizabeth Adler

New Book Group #38 April 20, 2013
Here is a group with many mysteries.  Links to be added as I get time.

Sheer Dynamite by Jennifer Skully
Golden Chances by Rebbecca Hagen Lee
Awaken the Senses by Nalini Singh

New Book Group #37 March 22, 2013

As I am linking these titles it is clear to me why they were in my TBR boxes and it is really hard to let them go but I have soooo many. Better that they find good reader homes than sit on my shelves, or in a box, and collect dust. 
Pairs:
Singles:
Anthology: Something Borrowed, Something Blue - this book has spine creases and minor water damage...I thought I had read it and liked it but now I realize it was another anthology I read with Elaine Barbier.
Lady Ice by Joan Hohl

New Book Group #36 February 15, 2013

The Trailsman: Texas Lead Slingers by Jon Sharpe

New Book Group #35 January 11, 2013 (All Gone)

New Book Group #34 December 7, 2012--- (All gone)

New Book Group #33 October 27, 2012


SINGLES - CHRISTMAS TITLES (Better sizes for international) 
*A Holiday Prayer by Deb Kastner  (slight spine creasing)

New Book Group #32 October 5, 2012
- Oops upside down book! NOTE This book has dog bite damage; it is missing half back cover and the edges of pages in the back third of the book... it does not effect the text but I will understand if no one wants this one - A Courtesans Guide to Getting Your Man by Susan Donovan and Celeste Bradley

New Book Group #31 August 31, 2012
I pulled some more books from several of my boxes.
An Honorable Man by Rosemary Rogers (spine creases)

New Book Group #30 July 27, 2012
This time I pulled some books from one of my older boxes.
*asterisks indicate lighter, smaller books possibly suitable for international mailing
The Willful Widow by Valerie King (spine wear)
Wild Escapade by Lisa Bingham
Dancing on Snowflakes by Jane Bonander (postage too much - replaced with GC)

New Book Group #29 June 29, 2012
*asterisks indicate lighter, smaller books possibly suitable for international mailing
Magic: The Gathering Distant Planes, An Anthology
*One is the Lonliest Number - Tom Clancey's Net Force

New Book Group #28 May 18, 2012--- (All gone)

New book Group #27 April 13, 2012--- (All gone)

New book Group #26 March 2, 2012--- (All gone)

New Group #25 January 12, 2012---(All gone)

New Group #24 Pick Books November 25, 2011---(All gone)

New Group #23 Pick Books October 14, 2011
I tried to pick some books that would be good for October -
Halloween or dark minded.
Ghost Writer (Shivers #3) by M.D. Spenser

New Group #22 Pick Books September 2, 2011---(All gone)

New Group #21 of Pick Books July 29, 2011---(All gone)

May, 2011 New Group of Pick books Group #20
Luciano's Luck by Jack Higgins - Audio Cassettes

3/25/11 I did get to set up a new group of books: Group #19
Primary Colors - audio tapes

2/19/11 Book Group #18- Pairs!---(All gone).

I have finally updated the intro and Entry paragraphs here:

If you saw the pictures posted of my bookshelves and boxes you know I do have lots of books! And that doesn't include the other eight or so boxes at my office!! And more books as I find deals too good to pass up! I am sharing my book bounty by these Friday Pick Giveaways.

I started Friday Pick on November 27, 2009 and in four years I have posted 43 groups of 16 (688) books to find new homes! (as of November 2013).

I periodically update the lists - deleting those won. You can still go to the Friday Pick list link to see older posts and the older lists book pictures if you want! I am happy to say that so far about 618+ books have found new homes! YAY. I have to update my print out to check the exact number sent out - a few were never claimed.

Note rules here regarding international entries.

Because postage to overseas can be prohibitive I am willing to give a $5.00 book certificate to international winners - Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Borders, ARe, TWRP, ClassAct Books, eTreasures, Desert Breeze, etc....you tell me where and I'll set it up. So for my overseas visitors your comment may indicate a smaller book and I'll check postage or note your choice of gift card.

I learned that The Book Depository does not ship to everywhere. The postage for some of the books to far away places runs between $5.00 $7.00 and $6.00 $10.00 and up. Since I would award $5.00 for The Book Depository to an international winner, as an alternative you may choose a smaller book and we will hope the postage will not exceed $6.00. If the postage is more, or if you want to pick a larger book and you are willing to pay any extra postage beyond the $6.00 I will work with you on that. This may not make a difference to many but if it helps one or two of you to give one of my books a home that will make me happy too. :o)

TO ENTER:

Leave a comment and tell me WHICH BOOK you would like to get from the Friday Pick lists.
CUT OFF TIME IS THURSDAY NIGHTS AT 10:00 PM CENTRAL so I do not have to stay up past midnight to do the winner post!
I will randomly pick two winners to announce Friday mornings with the next Pick post.
Automatic wins are those who requested the book four times and I did not note other people asking for that book during those weeks.
WINNERS PLEASE CHECK THE WIN POST ON FRIDAYS AND fill in the Winner's Acceptance Form or email me at mesreads@gmail.com. [I will confirm receipt of the addresses- well I realize I haven't always done this. But if you filled out the form and don't get the book within two weeks nudge me with an email please!] If I have the winners e-mail I will send a reminder in a week or so....

Thanks for helping these books find new homes!!

Repeating this helpful blog tip: You can right click on a link and you will be given the choice to open the link in a new window or tab so you do not navigate away from the screen you are on!! I use this all the time!

1/14/11 New List #17--- (All gone)

12/3/10 Book Set: #16
The Da Vinci Code by Dan Brown  (postage too much - replaced with GC)

List #15---(All gone)

List #14---(All gone)

Here is set #13 of Used books! ---(All gone)

Group #12---(All gone)

Group #11

Alien Chronicles - The Crimson Claw by Deborah Chester

List #1
Circle of Stars by Anna Lee Waldo

Pick #2---(All gone)

Pick #3---(All gone)

Pick #4---(All gone)

Pick #5
See Jane Lead by Lois P. Frankel
Cold Hit by Linda Fairstein - Audio Tapes

Pick #6---(All gone)

Pick #7
Prey by Michael Crichton - Audio Tape
Princess Charming by Jane Heller (slightly creased)

Pick #8
(sc) = slightly creased on binding otherwise all in good shape
The Jury by Steve Martini - Audio Tapes
No Safe Place by Richard North Patterson - Audio Tapes

Pick #9
On Treacherous Ground by Earl Murray

Pick #10---(All Gone)