Mailbox Monday September 1, 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.
Thanks to the ladies sharing hosting duties: Leslie of Under My Apple Tree, Serena of Savvy Verse & Wit and Vicki of I'd Rather Be at the Beach.
Warning: Mailbox Monday can lead to envy, toppling TBR piles and humongous wish lists.

I received one audio review title this week.
I spent part of Saturday browsing Audible titles. I purchased two Kindle books to get two Audibles for low price then I picked up a total of five Audible titles. I also picked up many free kindle titles.

(I still have many author requests to consider and reply to.)

Are your mailbox and TBR piles blooming?

Review Titles

Title: Dead Case in Deadwood: Deadwood Mysteries, Book 3 
Author: Ann Charles
Narrator: Caroline Shaffer  
Publisher/Date: Blackstone Audio, 07/01/14
I just thought this looked like it would be fun.

Won

None

Purchased

It was time to pick my monthly Audible selections and I had a hard time deciding on which titles.
I picked up three sci fi audio titles and two favorite authors that I can rely on.
I purchased these two books in Kindle so I could pick them up at Audible for $1.99 each (it was less expensive this way).

$4.95
Dust World (Undying Mercenaries Series Book 2)
B. V. Larson
I enjoyed the first book so I decided to purchase the second book.

$2.99

StarFire (Vince Lombard Book 1)

Mike Lee

I had this title on Kindle already so I was able to get it at Audible for $1.99

Annihilation (Unabridged)
Saxon Andrew


These two I picked up with my monthly subscription credits.

Betrayal in Death: In Death, Book 12

J. D. Robb

Heroes Are My Weakness
Susan Elizabeth Phillips

Free

Plus I downloaded another 58 free Kindle titles. Titles found linked through Bookbub, Bookfun, Ereader News Today, Free Par-tay, Inspired Reads, Pixel of Ink or Kindle ebooks.

It's Monday! What are You Reading? September 1, 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 strange week with not too many appointments still it went by quickly. This week I have lots of hearings to cover.
Again I enjoyed my reading and listening  but I only finished two books, plus I am well into the third.  I only got two reviews posted. 
I also posted the usual memes. :-)

I only got to visit a few blogs early in the week and although I hoped to get back for more, that didn't happen.
Thanks as always to all the nice people who visit me.

These were last week's posts:

• It's Monday! What are You Reading? August 25, 2014.

• Mailbox Monday August 25, 2014.

• Book Review: Chieftain by Command by Frances Housden; Historical Romance, Scottish; my rating 4.0.  

• Martha's Bookshelf***Friday Pick Giveaway August 29, 2014.  Open Worldwide. Ends 9/4/14.

• Audio Book Review: Curve of Time by M. Wylie Blanchet; Memoir; my rating 5.0. 

• Sharing Beyond Books #166 Comment Giveaway 8/30/14; Open Worldwide. Ends 9/5/14.

• Sunday Words of Encouragement August 31, 2014.

Finished Reading:
1. eBook/Kindle

Bound to Danger: A Deadly Ops Novel
by Katie Reus
I am 70% through this and enjoying this.
I received this from the Publisher through NetGalley.
Click on book title for full description.

2. Audible/MP3

Steel World: Undying Mercenaries, Book 1
Written by: B. V. Larson
Narrated by: Mark Boyett
I decided to try this sci fi
and eagerly listened to all the action!
I will post a review this week.
Publisher's Summary
In the 20th century Earth sent probes, transmissions, and welcoming messages to the stars. Unfortunately, someone noticed. The Galactics arrived with their battle fleet in 2052. Rather than being exterminated under a barrage of hell-burners, Earth joined their vast Empire. Swearing allegiance to our distant alien overlords wasn't the only requirement for survival. We also had to have something of value to trade, something that neighboring planets would pay their hard-earned credits to buy. As most of the local worlds were too civilized to have a proper army, the only valuable service Earth could provide came in the form of soldiers…someone had to do their dirty work for them, their fighting and dying.
I, James McGill, was born in 2099 on the fringe of the galaxy. When Hegemony Financial denied my loan applications, I was kicked out of the university and I turned to the stars. My first campaign involved the invasion of a mineral-rich planet called Cancri-9, better known as Steel World. The attack didn't go well, and now Earth has entered a grim struggle for survival. Humanity's mercenary legions go to war in Steel World, best-selling author B. V. Larson's latest science fiction novel.
©2013 B. V. Larson (P)2013 Audible, Inc.

eTreasures Publishing New Release:
Two print releases going through final adjustments before we link them up at the website.
Two more ebooks still out for galley proofs; to be released soon.

Currently reading:
1.  eBook/Kindle

The Traitor (Captive Hearts)
by Grace Burrowes 
I am at 88% in this enjoyable Regency.
Click on book title for full description.

2. Audio/MP3

Dead Case in Deadwood: Deadwood Mystery, Book 3
Written by: Ann Charles
Narrated by: Caroline Shaffer
I selected this from AudioBook Jukebox 
because it looked fun even if it is a third book.
Publisher's Summary
"Nothing good ever happens at the butt-crack of dawn. No doubt, the headless corpse on the autopsy table in front of me would agree." – Violet Parker
Real estate agent Violet "Spooky" Parker stumbles upon a body-part theft ring at the local funeral parlor and suspects her caustic coworker has a hand in it - or maybe a foot. Can Violet discover what's in the crates that the crooks are sneaking out of the mortuary in the dark of night? Or will she end up in one of them herself - in pieces?
©2012 Ann Charles (P)2014 Made for Success

3. eBook/Kindle - Also Print

Love Remains (The Matchmakers Book 1)
Kaye Dacus
This is Ladies' Book Club reading for this Saturday 9/6.
I will start reading it on Monday.
Book Description
Publication Date: June 18, 2010
Every grandmother wants to see her grandchildren happy, especially when it comes to their love lives. Join five active senior ladies—and one gentleman—who take a great interest in the lives and loves of their single grandchildren and become The Matchmakers. Zarah Mitchell and Bobby Patterson become the first focus of meddling grandmothers when he moves back to Nashville to work for the Tennessee Criminal Investigations Unit. Will Zarah be able to forgive the man who years ago chose a military career over her—especially when she learns he is investigating the historic preservation agency for which she works?

4. eBook/Kindle

Winter's Passage
by Julie Kagawa
I didn't get to this one yet.
Click on book title for full description.

I am still one day ahead on my daily Bible reading.
I have disciplined myself each morning to read my Bible passage before I pick up print, Kindle or mp3. I am really enjoying the reading.

Line Edits:
We are still finalizing formatting for four ebook re-releases, two fiction and two non-fiction. We are also working on releasing several novels in print.

I still have some books carried forward and I still hope to read at least one of my own TBRs this month. I completed three reviews last week and hope to post at least three this week.  

September Scheduled -
9/6 Love Remains (The Matchmakers Book 1) by Kaye Dacus

NetGalley - To be read in August thru September:
Oliver and the Seawigs by Philip Reeve, Illustrated by Sarah McIntyre
Neverhome by Laird Hunt (Little, Brown and Company) 
The Night Visitor by Dianne Emley (Random House)
Global Predator by Jack Maclean  (Legend Publishing)

Authors:
From Story Bundle -  I am enjoying the romance bundle and so glad I got these.  There is a Steampunk Bundle available now that looks interesting.
Huntress For Hire by Terry Spear
Peter's Christmas by M. L. Buchman
The Death of Davy Moss by Kristine Kathryn Rusch
Shades of Moonlight by Karen L. McKee

Still many requests to field and reply to.

AudioBook Jukebox
Requested new titles last week and received one so far.

Post Hypnotic Press
I have several more audiobooks from this publisher that I will be reviewing.

From TBR Collection - TBD
Won Book - TBD
Free Kindle/Nook or Smashwords - Winter's Passage

Sunday Words of Encouragement August 31, 2014

This week the old testament reading in the One Year Bible has been Job. Parts of Job are rather depressing but then it hits chapters 38 through 42 and it is just too awesome as God reminds Job that He, God, is the great creator and the one in control!

This morning the Sunday school lesson shared a video of Mark Blitz speaking on prophesy. He promotes studying end time events with the Biblical (Jewish) Calendar in mind rather than simply looking at dates on our ‘modern’ calendar. He referenced Genesis 1:14 which is generally translated and known as:
14 And God said, Let there be lights in the firmament of the heaven to divide the day from the night; and let them be for signs, and for seasons, and for days, and years: (KJV). But Pastor Blitz pointed out that a more correct translation of the word “Moed” would be “appointed times” or “divine appointments”.  Pastor Blitz noted that the God who holds (and controls) the vast universe in His hands seeks a personal relationship with you and me. That is an awesome concept!

I specifically chose this song because it acknowledges God’s awesome power shown in the universe and also acknowledges His touch in our individual lives.

Verses for Today:
Isaiah 46:8-10 (NIV)
8 “Remember this, keep it in mind,
    take it to heart, you rebels.
9 Remember the former things, those of long ago;
    I am God, and there is no other;
    I am God, and there is none like me.
10 I make known the end from the beginning,
    from ancient times, what is still to come.
I say, ‘My purpose will stand,
    and I will do all that I please.’

The warnings of the Harbinger and the four Blood Moons seems to me to fit with God’s word in Job.  Who but HE knows how to control these events? Who but HE planned all things from before time? Who but HE knows the wicked and stubborn heart of man and who but HE provided redemption and grace?

If God is providing warnings what should our response be? We need to stay grounded in His Word so that we are not deceived by any, even those who share good information but may have an ulterior motive. We need to pray and seek to share the message of salvation with others in these critical days.

God, I pray for discernment and I pray for courage to share your message.

Sharing Beyond Books #166 Comment Giveaway August 30, 2014

Hello again on Saturday night and Welcome to Sharing Beyond Books, SBB!
I had a strange, rare day today. I stayed home in the morning to do bed sheets and some cleaning. Then I got on the computer doing organization and I never left the house. :-/

Thanks to everyone who commented last week.
Seven people clean pretty much as they go, almost daily. Another six people clean about twice a week. Then there are a few who clean for company -- I relate to that. Ten people do spring, fall or big project cleaning... or at least plan to. I can relate to that too. :-)

~~~~

The Winner from SBB #165 comments is: #7 Fredamans 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 #166 (One Question.)

Q1. My question (for week 5 this month): Do you use the "snooze" feature on your alarm??

A: I use my cell phone as my alarm and I LOVE my snooze feature. My normal routine is: Five minutes early very gentle music, like a stream gurgling, comes on; then five minutes later a rooster crows. I also have a second time set for fifteen minutes later that I use sometimes. Then I rise up pretty cheerfully. My DH hates the snooze! He says "Just set it for the time you want to get up." Fortunately he has gotten used to my routine. 

Image found at Empty Backfield.

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.
WINNER FROM FOUR QUESTIONS USED IN AUGUST: BECKY, ELIZABETH, BN100 and MARJORIE--- #2 ELIZABETH
Your turn to share:

Q1. My Question: Do you use the "snooze" on your alarm??

SBB Comment Winners can choose a selection from the Valentine and "Love" books, the Christmas Giveaway Books (this is the new link), or the June 2013 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 September 6, 2014 at 5 PM  central.

Audio Book Review: The Curve Of Time by M. Wylie Blanchet

This is a delightful listening pleasure.
The Curve of Time
by M. Wylie Blanchet
Narrated by: Heather Henderson

Length: 7 hrs and 24 mins
Format: Unabridged
Release Date:06-17-14
Publisher: Post Hypnotic Press Inc.
Program Type: Audiobook
Genre: Memoir
My Rating: 5.0 of 5.0

Publisher's Summary
At a time when Vancouver Island was still an extremely remote and sparsely populated backwater, a young widow packed her five children into a 25-foot boat dubbed The Caprice and set off on an adventure. Summer after summer the brave young mother, who became known as "Capi," would set sail and explore the rugged coastline for months with her young crew. Although the hazards the family faced were numerous-tides, fog, storms, rapids, cougars, and even grizzlies-Capi brought them through it all. The Curve of Time is Capi's poignant, thoughtful, and poetic recollection of these days.This classic coastal tale has been a bestseller since it was first published in 1961. That was also the year of the author's death. In print continuously since it's original publication, this is the first time it has been made available in audio.
©1961 The Estate of M. Wylie Blanchet (P)2014 Post Hypnotic Press Inc.

Review:
This is a sharing of personal experiences of a young widow who is boating with five children as they explore the remote areas of the rugged Vancouver coast. The author adds some history tidbits along the way as well as the summer adventures. The stories are natural, often charming and humorous. It is extra special as this is set in 1927 so their explorations tend to be true adventures of a more primitive time and setting. Most visits and encounters with strangers, even native Indians, are safe and friendly. They make friends and share time with loners and couples in remote areas. Then again, there are natural dangers too in the form of bears and cougars.

The tales share the events of the young family during their summer vacations and include, at the end, a sweet returning home to their “Little House” on Vancouver Island. The chapters represent separate events and adventures in no particular order of time. The stories include lovely descriptions of the rugged, beautiful and sometimes eerie landscaping, including visits to abandoned tribal villages and burial grounds. There are also some lovely moments of poetic observance.

I particularly enjoyed this experience because my family did a lot of boating when I was a teenager. My experiences were with more modern boats in the Bahamas but we still had similar adventures. We met strangers who became friends and had times when we faced the dangers of shark infested waters and were stranded by engine failures.

This is a book that shouldn't be limited to boaters although that is a large part of the entertainment. This is a lovely, enjoyable family journal with adventures that could be shared with children as well as adults. I have recommended it to my daughter to listen to with my grandchildren, ages 3 to 10. It is perfect for vacation listening as it tells of summer explorations but it doesn’t have to be limited to summer. I recommend this to anyone who enjoys tales of family time adventuring and especially those who might enjoy the excitement of boating in sometimes tight and danger places. Although there is a bit of an old fashioned tone the stories are timeless in the nature of remembering family adventures.

Audio Notes: I found the narration by Heather Henderson to be spot on for the nature of the story. The pacing and inflections fit the circumstances being described. She is able to portray the experiences with a gentle and natural presentation. I am sure that the book is good in print but the audio is a delightful, easy listen.  You can find some comments from Ms. Henderson and lovely images from the family at her own blog: http://heatherannehenderson.com/2014/07/04/a-narrators-joy-the-curve-of-time/

I received this audio download from Post Hypnotic Press for and honest review.

Martha's Bookshelf***Friday Pick Giveaway August 29, 2014

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

Another week has slipped by. This has been a strange week with few appointments, allowing me time to catch up on work. Yet I have been working late still and tonight I am tired. 
I hope everyone else is doing well.

[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 August 22 Pick. There were three automatic wins 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.
bn100 gets Safe by His Sides
Linda K gets Contract Dad
Alyn gets A Highlander's Bride

CONGRATULATIONS
to Random.org picked Winners from August 22 Pick:
Miki gets a GC

Llehn 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.}

Does real life fade into a book or do books fade in real life?

Image found at Literary Duck Blog.

New Book Group #50! August 8, 2014

PAIRS:
William J. Coughlin: The Court and The Judgment
Phyllis J. Whitney: The Ebony Swan and Woman Without a Past
SINGLES:
Maybe This Time by Victoria Barrett
The Commander by Kate Bridges
So Hard to Forget by Evelyn Crowe
The Cinderella Plan by Margaret Daley
Whirlwind Affair by Jacquie D'Allessandro
Let Darkness Come by Angela Hunt
Pleasure Unbound by Larissa Ione 
ChiefTain by Nan Ryan
A Place Called Home by Loir Wick
The Mr. & Mrs. Happy Handbook by Steve Doocy
True Believer by Nicholas Sparks
A Garden of Friends by Penny Pierce Rose

New Book Group #49 June 27, 2014

PAIRS:
Sandra Brown:  The Thrill of Victory and Temperatures Rising
Beverly Barton: The Last to Die and Raintree: Sanctuary
SINGLES:
Jezebel by Katherine Sutcliff
Down by the Water by Caroline Upcher
Hawkes Harbor by S.E. Hinton
Savage Thunder by Cassie Edwards
Miracle by Deborah Smith
Desperate Alliances by Cory Daniells
Never Walk Alone by Paula Detmer Riggs
The Awakening and Selected Short Stories by Kate Chopin
Running Blind by Lee Child
Dirty Sexy Knitting by Christie Ridgway
The Grey Beginning by Barbara Michaels
The Highlander's Bride by Michele Sinclair


New Book Group #48 May 30, 2014

PAIRS:
Karen Haper:  Black Orchid (spine creases) and Shaker Run
Elizabeth Lowell: Fever and The Color of Death
SINGLES:
After Dark by Phillip Margolin Audio Tapes
Dangerous by Debra Dier
First to Fight Anthology
Full Bloom by Jayne Ann Krentz
Mesmerized by Gayle Lynds
On the Edge by Susan Kearney
Safe by His Side by Linda Conrad

New Book Group #47 April 25, 2014

SINGLES:
Trey's Secret by Lois Faye Dayer
Midnight Reign by Chris Marie Green
Once Upon a Moon by Julie Kistler
The Secret Life of Bees by Sue Monk Kidd
The Hidden Truth of Cytech's Randall Forty byVickie Kennedy



New Book Group #46 March 15, 2014

SINGLES:
Sweet Talking Man by Betina Krain
Penhollow by Georgette Heyer
The Last Heiress by Bertrice Small (spine creases)
Strong Arms of the Law by Vicki Kennedy


New Book Group #45 January 31, 2014

SINGLES:
Out of Darkness by Lynn Erickson
Lord Braybrook's Penniless Bride by Elizabeth Rolls
Contract Dad by Helen Shelton
Hearts Are Wild by Laura Wright

New Book Group #44 December 14, 2013---(All gone)

New Book Group! #43 November 1, 2013 ---(All gone)

New Book Group #42 September 27, 2013 ---(All gone)

New Book Group #41 August 2, 2013

Singles:
Cattle Rancher, Secret Son by Margaret Way

New Book Group #40 June 28, 2013

Singles:
Breakfast in Bed by Sandra Brown - Audio Cassette Tapes (link is for mass media version)

New Book Group #39 May 31, 2013 - Plenty of "summer" titles!
Singles:
Shetland Summer by Janet Lynnford

New Book Group #38 April 20, 2013
Awaken the Senses by Nalini Singh

New Book Group #37 March 22, 2013
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.

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---(All gone)

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
An Honorable Man by Rosemary Rogers (spine creases)

New Book Group #30 July 27, 2012
The Willful Widow by Valerie King (spine wear)
Wild Escapade by Lisa Bingham
Dancing on Snowflakes by Jane Bonander

New Book Group #29 June 29, 2012
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
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---(All gone)

3/25/11 Group #19---(All gone)
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 702+ 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 

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---(All gone)

Pick #6---(All gone)

Pick #7
Prey by Michael Crichton - Audio Tape

Pick #8
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)

Book Review: Chieftain by Command by Frances Housden

I liked the characters in this satisfactory Scottish romance. 

Chieftain by Command

by Frances Housden

• File Size: 554 KB
• Print Length: 212 pages
• Publisher: Escape Publishing - Harlequin Enterprises, Australia Pty Ltd (September 1, 2014)
• ASIN: B00M19AWGU

Genre: Historical Romance, Scottish Clans

My Rating: 4.0 of 5.0

Blurb:
From the bestselling, RITA-nominated author Frances Housden comes the gripping, sensual, suspenseful follow-up to The Chieftain’s Curse...
Gavyn Farquhar’s marriage is forged with a double-edged blade. Along with the Comlyn clan’s lands, a reward from the King, he is blessed with an unwilling bride, Kathryn Comlyn, and an ancient fort with few defences that desperately needs to be fortified before it can act as a sufficient buffer between Scotland and the Norsemen on its northern borders.
Gavyn needs wealth to meet his king’s demands, and he knows of only one way to get it — with his sword. Leaving his prickly bride behind in the hands of trusted advisors, he makes his way to the battlegrounds of France and the money that can be made there.
Two years married and Kathryn is still a virgin. A resentful virgin, certain that, like her father before her, she is perfectly capable of leading the Comlyn clan. In her usurper husband’s absence, she meets the clan’s needs, advising and ruling as well as any man.
But she is an intelligent woman, and she knows the only respect and power she will ever hold will be through her husband. And to wield it, she needs to make him love her. An easy task to set, but impossible to complete, when said husband has been gone for two years, and there is no word of his return. But Kathryn is undeterred. After all, a faint heart never won a Chieftain.

Review:
Kathyrn Comlyn was only fifteen when she was thrust, by the King’s command, into a marriage to Gavyn Farquhar. Kathryn was chagrined and relieved when Gavyn only pretended to consummate the marriage before leaving for France to earn funds needed to fortify the stronghold. Kathryn has managed the affairs of the clan for the past two years but has learned that, as a woman, she can only gain respect and authority as the Chieftain’s lady wife.

Gavyn finally returns home after two years of battling and dreaming about the spitfire, reluctant wife he left behind. His unannounced arrival is greeted by an arrow shot by that wife. Although Gavyn wants to gain her companionship he fears that she may truly hate him and the circumstances that brought them together. He also has to deal with clansmen who view him and his band of mercenaries as usurpers on their lands.

Kathryn has taken Lhilidh, a young girl whose mother has recently died, as her maid. Lhilidh was raised with Nhaimeth, a dwarf, who was always thought to be a fool as a youngster but who has now grown to be a respected, intelligent and loyal man. Nhaimeth is devoted to Kathryn and Lhilidh and his two young friends, both noblemen’s sons in training, Rob and Jamie, keep an eye out for the ladies too. But no one is aware that Kathryn’s two disreputable cousins are plotting behind her back.

I liked the primary characters and many of the secondary characters added to the story. I was glad that there was intrigue and danger, with a few secrets, to fill out the romance. Unfortunately I found the pacing to be on and off, a little slow and then fast. There was annoying repetition in the themes of distrust between Kathryn and Gavyn and their unwillingness to reveal their growing affection for each other. The sexual scenes were also a bit more descriptive than I care for.

Still, the writing is sound with some rich descriptions and realistic emotional fears. Although I wasn’t enthralled, I did enjoy the overall read and would try this author again.

I received this title from Escape Publishing for an honest review. 

August Winners: The Lady's Maid, BookBlast, Romance Rides the Range, The Freezer

Congratulations to Winners!

Giveaway Ended August 17, 2014

Giveaway: The Lady's Maid, Prairie Dreams by Susan Page Davis;  
WINNER: KELLY G

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BookBlast Giveaway: Son of War, Daughter of Chaos Giveaway $50.00 GC
Winner: Entry #3935  Sandy S.



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Giveaway Ended August 23, 2014

Giveaway: The Freezer (The Tanner Sequence) by Timothy S. Johnston;
WINNERS:
a) Mobi format eBook copy of The Freezer: BN100
b) Mobi format eBook copy of the first book The Furnace: LISA
c) Five signed covers of The Freezer: LINDAK, BOOKLADY, BETH, VALERIE AND LISA
d) One TSJ Mug: SHELLY

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Giveaway Ended August 24, 2014

Giveaway: Romance Rides the Range (Romance Rider Series #1) by Coleen L. Reese; WINNER: VICKI W

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ALL WINNERS: Please fill in the Winner's Acceptance Form AND if you want you can email me at mesreads AT gmail.com to confirm the win and I will arrange the mailing or notify the publishers.
[I ask that all winner's fill in the form as it helps me keep track of when I have completed the mail outs or notice to the publishers rather than tracking individual emails. But of course -- feel free to email me too! :-)]

Mailbox Monday August 25, 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.
Thanks to the ladies sharing hosting duties: Leslie of Under My Apple Tree, Serena of Savvy Verse & Wit and Vicki of I'd Rather Be at the Beach.
Warning: Mailbox Monday can lead to envy, toppling TBR piles and humongous wish lists.

I didn't receive or select any review books last week.
I also purchased four Kindle books and picked up many free kindle titles.

(I still have many author requests to consider and reply to.)

Are your mailbox and TBR piles blooming?

Review Titles

None

Won

None

Purchased

I purchased four Kindle books that caught my eye, two for $.99 cent and two for $1.99. 
Sometimes titles are just so hard to resist. 

$1.99
Splendour Falls
Susanna Kearsley

Time Trap: Red Moon trilogy Book 1

Micah Caida

Secrets and Lies The Complete Trilogy 
(Secrets and Lies Trilogy Book 5)
Joanne Clancy

$1.99

Not a Whisper: Klondike, PA - a small town with big secrets (A Klondike Mystery Book 1)

Donna B McNicol

Free

Plus I downloaded another 51 free Kindle titles. Titles found linked through Bookbub, Bookfun, Ereader News Today, Free Par-tay, Inspired Reads, Pixel of Ink or Kindle ebooks.

It's Monday! What are You Reading? August 25, 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.

It's been another good week though I am juggling work between title company, law office and publishing company. 
Although I enjoyed my reading and listening it seemed slow. I only finished two books but I am well into the third.  I posted three book reviews and a separate tour giveaway. 
I also posted the usual memes. :-)

I did get to visit  a little early in the week and a little at the end of the week.
Thanks as always to all the nice people who visit me.

These were last week's posts:

• It's Monday! What are You Reading? August 18, 2014.

• Mailbox Monday August 18, 2014.

• Audible Book Review: Forsaking Home: Survivalists Series, Book 4 by A. American; Sci Fi, Post Apocalyptic; my rating 4.25. 

• Book Review: SEAL Team Six, Hunt the Wolf by Don Mann; Military Thriller, Action; my rating 4.5.  

• In Bed with a Rogue Spotlight Tour Giveaway.  Six Book Bundle. Ends 9/1/14.

• Martha's Bookshelf***Friday Pick Giveaway August 22, 2014.  Open Worldwide. Ends 8/28/14.

• Audio Book Review: Of Neptune: Syrena Legacy, Book 3 by Anna Banks; Paranormal, YA Fantasy; my rating 3.75. 

• Sharing Beyond Books #165 Comment Giveaway 8/23/14; Open Worldwide. Ends 8/30/14.

• Sunday Words of Encouragement August 24, 2014.

Finished Reading:

1. eBook/Kindle

Chieftain by Command
by Frances Housden
This is an acceptable romance.
I'll post my review this week.
Click on book title for full description.

2. Audio

The Curve of Time
by M. Wylie Blanchet
Narrated by: Heather Henderson
This is a delightful listening pleasure. 
I received the download from Post Hypnotic Press.
I'll post a review this week. 
Click on book title for full description.

eTreasures Publishing New Release:
Two print releases going through final adjustments before we link them up at the website.
Two more ebooks still out for galley proofs; to be released soon.

Currently reading:

1. eBook/Kindle

Bound to Danger: A Deadly Ops Novel
by Katie Reus
I am 70% through this and enjoying this.
I received this from the Publisher through NetGalley.
Click on book title for full description.

2.  eBook/Kindle

The Traitor (Captive Hearts)
by Grace Burrowes 
A Regency Romance from a reliably good author.
I received this from Sourcebook through NetGalley.
Book Description
Publication Date: August 5, 2014
New York Times and USA Today bestselling author Grace Burrowes delivers a passionate, danger-filled Regency romance...
The past will overtake him...
Abandoned in France since boyhood, despite being heir to an English barony, Sebastian St. Clair makes impossible choices to survive a tour of duty in the French Army. He returns to England hoping for the peaceful life of a country gentleman, though old enemies insist on challenging him on the field of honor, one after another.

But this time, he will not fight alone...
Millicent Danforth desperately needs her position as companion to the Traitor Baron's aunt, but grieves to learn that Sebastian must continually fight a war long over. As Sebastian and Milly explore their growing passion, they uncover a plot that will cost Sebastian his life and his honor, unless he does battle once more-this time in the name of love.

3. eBook/Kindle

Winter's Passage
by Julie Kagawa
I choose this as a book with "Winter" in the title as a result of a recent giveaway.
There are several other choices for "Winter" from my Kindle Library but I thought I would start with this novella.
Book Description
Publication Date: May 20, 2010
Julie Kagawa's bestselling series The Iron Fey captivated the imagination—and hearts—of readers of all ages with its mix of magic, fantasy and romance. Enjoy this special bridge novella, which takes place between The Iron King and The Iron Daughter.

Meghan Chase used to be an ordinary girl…until she discovered that she is really a faery princess. After escaping from the clutches of the deadly Iron Fey, Meghan must follow through on her promise to return to the equally dangerous Winter Court with her forbidden love, Prince Ash. But first, Meghan has one request: that they visit Puck—Meghan's best friend and servant of her father, King Oberon—who was gravely injured defending Meghan from the Iron Fey.

Yet Meghan and Ash's detour does not go unnoticed. They have caught the attention of an ancient, powerful hunter—a foe that even Ash may not be able to defeat….

I am pretty sure I will pick an audio choice this week but I haven't decided what title yet.

I am still one day ahead on my daily Bible reading.
I have disciplined myself each morning to read my Bible passage before I pick up print, Kindle or mp3. I am really enjoying the reading.

Line Edits:
We are still finalizing formatting for four ebook re-releases, two fiction and two non-fiction. We are also working on releasing several novels in print.

I still have some books carried forward and I still hope to read at least one of my own TBRs this month. I completed three reviews last week and hope to post at least three this week.  

August Scheduled -

NetGalley - To be read in August thru September:
Oliver and the Seawigs by Philip Reeve, Illustrated by Sarah McIntyre
The Traitor (Captive Hearts) by Grace Burrowes (Sourcebook) (Reading)
Neverhome by Laird Hunt (Little, Brown and Company) 
The Night Visitor by Dianne Emley (Random House)
Global Predator by Jack Maclean  (Legend Publishing)

Authors:
From Story Bundle -  I am enjoying the romance bundle and so glad I got these.  There is a Steampunk Bundle available now that looks interesting.
Huntress For Hire by Terry Spear
Peter's Christmas by M. L. Buchman
The Death of Davy Moss by Kristine Kathryn Rusch
Shades of Moonlight by Karen L. McKee

Still many requests to field and reply to.

AudioBook Jukebox
Didn't get to request new titles last week so I have to do that in the next day or two.

Post Hypnotic Press
I have several more audiobooks from this publisher that I will be reviewing.

From TBR Collection - TBD
Won Book - TBD
Free Kindle/Nook or Smashwords - Winter's Passage

Sunday Words of Encouragement August 24, 2014

We had a lovely praise time today and then a graduation ceremony for preschool girls and especially for four young girls who received Honor Star status for their studies in Mpact.
We then celebrated communion. There wasn't a full sermon but Pastor reminded us the purpose of partaking in communion is to remember Christ's sacrifice of body and blood to secure the gifts of redemption and inheritance. Physical and spiritual healing is ours if we believe and accept.

I felt compelled to share this video that our on vacation Sunday School teacher put up on his FB page yesterday to encourage us to prepare for church. :-)
If the copied link doesn't work here is the link:
http://todaychristian.net/universalist-muslim-jew-holy-ghost-filled-christian-prays-watch-happens/

The Universalist, Muslim, Jew and Then The HOLY GHOST Filled Christian Prays...Watch What Happens! - Today Christian | Stay Informed | Your Popular Christian News Site

todaychristian.net

HUGE secular conference invited a Holy Ghost filled Pastor to pray along side with a Muslim, Universalist and Jew Awesome response!

The name of Jesus Christ is not a magic word. The power is not even in saying words, but in understanding and believing all that the name of Jesus Christ signifies. His name represents all of His finished work on the cross, fulfilling God's plan of redemption and salvation, victory over sin, death, and over the devil's entire realm. 
(From Nairaland Forum.)

Verse for Today:
Philippians 2:9-10 (NIV)
9 Therefore God exalted him to the highest place
and gave him the name that is above every name,
10 that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow,
in heaven and on earth and under the earth,

Thank you God for your awesome creation, including me. Thank you Jesus for your sacrifice and your free gift of grace! Thank you Holy Spirit for being with me every breathing moment to help me along my way in this fallen world.