Sunday Post August 30, 2015/It's Monday! What are You Reading? Plus Mailbox Monday August 31, 2015

I am linking with Sunday Post at Caffeinated Book Reviewer.
It's Monday! at Book Journey may be active again in September.

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.

I am mostly feeling better. I actually got out and walked three mornings this past week! 
I am still juggling to get caught up at work. Instead of work on Saturday I attending an End Time Prophesy Conference.  I learned new information that was good. 

I had a good reading week - finished three books: one ebook, and two audibles. I posted four reviews and the usual memes.

Yay - I got to visit early in the week!
Thanks as always to all the nice people who visit me.

These were last week's posts:

• Sunday Post August 23, 2015/It's Monday! What are You Reading? Plus Mailbox Monday August 24, 2015.

• Audible Review: Petticoat Detective by Margaret Brownley; Historical Romance; my rating 4.0.

• Audible Review: The Remaining by D. J. Molles; Sci Fi, Fantasy; my rating 4.25.

• Friday Pick Giveaway August 28, 2015. Open Worldwide. Ends 9/3/2015.

• Book Review: To Honor You Call Us (Man of War Book 1) by H. Paul Honsinger; Sci Fi Military, Space Opera; my rating 5.0.

• Audible Review: The Witch with No Name: The Hollows, Book 13 by Kim Harrison; Fantasy, Paranormal; my rating 4.5.

• Sharing Beyond Books #217 Comment Giveaway for August 29, 2015. Open Worldwide. Ends 9/5/2015.

• Sunday Words of Encouragement August 30, 2015.

Finished Reading:
1. Audible

Resurrecting Home: A Novel
Written by: A. American
Narrated by: Duke Fontaine
This is a good continuation of the series.
This is from my own Audible library.
Click on book title for full description.

2. Audible

Waking the Bear: Broken Chains, Book 1
Written by: Kerry Adrienne
Narrated by: Jason P. Hilton
This was enjoyable for a quick listen.
I received this from Barclay Publicity.
I will review it this week.
Click on book title for full description.

3. eBook/Kindle

Secrets at Maple Syrup Farm (Once in a Lifetime)
by Rebecca Raisin
This is a sweet, small town contemporary.
I selected this at NetGalley.
I plan to post a review this week.
Click on book title for full description.

Currently reading:

1. Audible/MP4

The Empire's Corps
Written by: Christopher G. Nuttall
Narrated by: Jeffrey Kafer
This looked like another sci fi military I would like. I am enjoying the action.
This was from my Audible Library. 
Publisher's Summary
You should never speak truth to power…
The Galactic Empire is dying and chaos and anarchy are breaking out everywhere. After a disastrous mission against terrorists on Earth itself, Captain Edward Stalker of the Terran Marine Corps makes the mistake of speaking truth to power, telling one of the most powerful men in the Empire a few home truths. As a result, Captain Stalker and his men are unceremoniously exiled to Avalon, a world right on the Rim of the Empire. It should have been an easy posting....
Well, apart from the bandits infesting the countryside, an insurgency that threatens to topple the Empire's loose control over Avalon, and a corrupt civil government more interested in what it can extort from the population than fighting a war. The Marines rapidly find themselves caught up in a whirlwind of political and economic chaos, fighting to preserve Avalon before the competing factions tear the world apart. They're Marines; if anyone can do it, they can.
The battle to save the Empire starts here.
©2012 Christopher G. Nuttall (P)2014 Podium Publishing

2. eBook/Kindle

The Banished of Muirwood (Covenant of Muirwood Book 1)
by Jeff Wheeler
I am only 15% into this but this is engaging.
I received this through NetGalley.
Click on book title for full description.

3. eBook/Kindle

Death of the Blue Flower
by Roxann Hill (Author), Paul Wagle (Translator)
I am looking forward to reading this.
I picked this up from NetGalley.
Working in an exclusive, high-end rehab clinic in Germany, ex-con Alicia Petersen does her job well enough to get through the day. Battered by life, she’s generally not one for conversation, escaping her dreary existence through daydreams of her childhood. These dreams and the friendship of Miriam Morgenroth, an elderly patient, are all that keep her going.
One day, Miriam disappears without a trace. But patients do walk away from rehab time and again, so no one suspects foul play—no one except Alicia. Determined to conduct her own search, she asks for help from a chemo-ravaged police detective, Chris Winkler, who jumps at a chance to put his dormant expertise to use in the investigation.
From the Bavarian Alps to the northern German Coast, the two follow a bloody trail into a world of betrayal, revenge, and murder, with motives that reach far back into an appalling past. As Alicia and Chris grow closer, they soon discover that Miriam had many secrets—the sort that threaten the lives of those who attempt to bring them to light.
Will they be able to uncover the truth before the past catches up with them?

4. Print Book

Jennifer: An O'Malley Love Story, O'Malley Series #1
By Dee Henderson
I picked this up on sale for my ladies' book club. 
I may finish it by Saturday which is our next meeting.
Product Description
It's a summer of change for Jennifer O'Malley.
The busy physician has a pediatrics practice in Dallas, Texas, and meeting and falling in love with surgeon Tom Peterson is adding a rich layer to her life. She's sorting out how to introduce Tom to her family--she's the youngest of seven--and thinking about marriage.
She's falling in love with Jesus too, and knows God is good. But that faith is about to be tested, and in a way she didn't expect. The results will soon transform her entire family.

June 1, 2015- I am still up to date on Bible reading and greatly enjoying the readings-- It seems my eyes are open to more details and meaning.. I am reading The One Year Bible again along with my husband and others from our church. I am also listening to the companion commentary online.

I posted four reviews last week which left just the three new for this week. I hope I will be able to catch up this week. 
I finished another NetGalley and am reading two books from NetGalley. I added one new book so my waiting NetGalley shelf remains at five.
I still want to pull in more books off TBR shelves, print and digital. 

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 picked up one new NetGalley title this past week although I have been eyeing others.
I forgot to list my Ladies Book Club book which is added here now.
I adding more free kindle titles to my library.

(I still have many author requests, old and new ones, to consider and reply to.)

Are your mailbox and TBR piles blooming?

Review Titles

I selected one title at NetGalley this week.

Nirvana (Nirvana Series Book 1)
by J.R. Stewart
Nirvana is the first installment in the three-part “Nirvana” series, a fast-paced, page-turning young adult trilogy that combines elements of the romance, mystery, and science fiction genres. This first novel introduces readers to a heroine who refuses to give up on the man she loves, even if it means taking on an entire government to do so. Are you ready to enter Nirvana?

Won

NONE

Purchased

I picked this book up for my Ladies Book Club. See above under current reading for full details.

Jennifer: An O'Malley Love Story, O'Malley Series #1
By Dee Henderson

Free

Over the past week I added 52 (again) free Kindle titles to my library. Titles found linked through Bookbub, Bookfun, Ereader News Today, Free Par-tay, Ignite Your Book, Inspired Reads, Pixel of Ink or Kindle ebooks.

Sunday Words of Encouragement August 30, 2015

I have had a blessed weekend in God's word. Saturday we attended an end-times prophesy conference and one of the presenters spoke at our church this morning. Eric Broome who shares Revelationship Ministries. God uses the sun, moon and stars for signs (Gen 1:14) of His glory and His control of events. (Luke 21:25.)

Knowledge has increased (Dan 12:4) and so has lawlessness (Matt 24:12). We are watching and anticipating things to occur soon (much going on in September) and in the next few years. I believe, with many others, that Christ's return is imminent. I feel the need to share the message; be a watchman (Ez 33). We are called to act - not only to stand firm but to take the offensive - pushing against the enemy.

This morning our choir sang this song which fits today's message:

Let the Church Rise ... and move the gates of hell!
(Sorry I didn't find a version with lyrics written.)

A Verse for Today:
Luke 21:11 (NIV)
11 There will be great earthquakes, famines and pestilences in various places, and fearful events and great signs from heaven.

It was nice to be back with our church family this morning. It is refreshing to have the fellowship.
Since I shared on the end-time message above I didn’t get to do an update on the Haiti mission we are supporting. God preformed a miracle by supplying a larger container trailer after title problems arose with the first trailer. We are very excited about the supplies being shipped and the upcoming missions trip. (Unfortunately Bob and I will be away on prior arrangements when the trip takes place.) For more info on the project here is the new facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/pages/Band-of-Brothers-Ministries/1059116097464768?fref=ts

Sharing Beyond Books #217 Comment Giveaway for August 29, 2015

Hello again and Welcome to Sharing Beyond Books, SBB!
I finally feel mostly better although I still have some congestion. I am thinking maybe I am experiencing some allergy issues. Ah well.

Thanks to everyone who commented last week.
12 of us collect bookmarks and Faith Hope Cherry Tea makes bookmarks. Two people collect coffee mugs and a couple like them, as well as T Shirts which were mentioned a couple of times. The unique items mentioned were: Poetrynleaves wants to collect tattoos; Carol L likes to collect quotes; and Gaby II collects book related jewelry.

~~~~

The regular Winner from SBB #216 comments is: #14 Rubynreba who can make a GC choice if international or book choice from the Updated ARC/Review titles or (not yet updated) Love titles - all linked near the end of the post. I'm hoping to update the book choices this week. Please let me know your choice by completing the (new) WINNER FORM.

WEEK #217 (One Question.)

My question this week:  When did you first get a computer and what kind was it?

I know this dates me. I got my first computer (for my law office) in 1982. It was an Osborne. It was a rather ugly thing (looked like a bulky suitcase) but it changed my work life! It used 5 1/4" floppy disks and as I recall the computer program I had to learn was C Basic.

Image found at Vintage Everyday.

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! The supply of questions is dwindling so share some if you think of any -- even if they are duplicates I'll weed through or try to modify to use.

Your turn to share:

My question this week: When did you first get a computer and what kind was it?

SBB Comment Winners can choose a selection from the  Valentine and "Love" books or the February 2015 Newly Updated ARC/Review List. (My daughter pulled several of the Christmas titles to give with gift bags we made up for the nursing homes. One of these days I will get together a new box of Christmas titles.)

SBB Rules:
a) Must be a follower.
b) Share a comment on the question 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 5, 2015 at 5 PM central.

Audible Review: The Witch with No Name: The Hollows, Book 13 by Kim Harrison

This is a satisfactory conclusion to an engaging series.
The Witch with No Name: The Hollows, Book 13
Written by: Kim Harrison
Narrated by: Marguerite Gavin

Length: 17 hrs and 28 mins
Series: The Hollows, Book 13
Unabridged Audiobook
Release Date:09-09-14
Publisher: Harper Audio
Genre: Fantasy Paranormal
My Rating: 4.5 of 5.0

Publisher's Summary
After 10 years and 13 adventures, at last the triumphant conclusion to Kim Harrison's number-one New York Times best-selling Hollows series!
In 2004, Kim Harrison made her debut with Dead Witch Walking, an electrifying urban audiobook novel full of action, mystery, romance, and humor, which introduced bounty hunter and witch Rachel Morgan. Over the course of 12 books, Rachel confronted numerous threats, vanquished a range of cunning and powerful enemies, risked her heart, suffered haunting loss, and nearly lost her life. Now, in The Witch with No Name, Kim Harrison brings back her wildly popular heroine for one final, epic battle.
Rachel Morgan's come a long way from the klutzy runner fleeing a bad job. She's faced vampires and werewolves, banshees, witches, and soul-eating demons. She's crossed worlds, channeled gods, and accepted her place as a day-walking demon. She's lost friends and lovers and family, and an old enemy has become something much more.
But power demands responsibility, and world-changers must always pay a price.
That time is now.
To save her best friend's soul and the rest of the living vampires, to keep the demonic ever-after and our own world from utter destruction at the hands of fanatics, Rachel Morgan will risk everything.
©2014 Kim Harrison (P)2014 HarperCollins Publishers

Review:
Rachel Morgan, a human born demon, raised witch has no people who will claim her. The witches (except for her mother) have long since banned her. The humans seek her help in time of crisis but want nothing else to do with her. The elves shun her because she is a demon. And the demons won’t accept her because she is the only one of their kind who can walk in the free world while the rest are trapped in the ever-after subject to summoning or the occasional foray on the surface. Rachel has overcome (at least on a temporary, in a crisis basis) all sorts of dangers and threats from the various Inderlander (supernatural) species.

The head of the vampires and most powerful man in Cincinnati, Rynn Cormell, is threatening Rachel’s best friend, Ivy, a living vampire. Either Rachel finds a way to restore the souls of the vampires or Ivy dies her first death. Rachel twists and turns trying to get out of the problem but there is no way out. In desperation she calls Trent, a former billionaire and top dog in town until his associations brought him down because the other Elves refused to condone his connections with Rachel and demons. The Elven spiritual leader, and maybe Trent’s ex fiancé, have already pushed Rachel to a point where she was almost consumed by the Elven Goddess (The Undead Pool).

Trent has realized that money and power are not as important as embracing those you love. He plans to stand by Rachel no matter the cost. The only people more important are his girls, Lucy and Ray. Together they have to figure out how to fight the Elves who are seeking to destroy the vampires, trap the demons and leave themselves in power.

This story isn’t as full paced action as some of the priors but it still moves along well. There are physiological issues interwoven with the action. And there is enough action to keep it exciting. Rachel, with the help of Trent, Jenks (the pixy), Biz (the Gargoyle) and finally Al (Rachel’s demon mentor), faces major danger and pushes through the challenges.

The epilogue is a bit anti-climatic but it is cute and works. I enjoyed the intensity and the creative wrap up to the series. This is a satisfactory conclusion to an engaging series.

Audio Notes: Marguerite Gavin has become the voice of the Hollows for me and many fans I am sure. She gives personality to the characters and her narration enhances my enjoyment of the story.

This was in my Audible Library from Sept. 2014. This is part of my Audio Challenge. 

Book Review: To Honor You Call Us (Man of War Book 1) by H. Paul Honsinger

I really loved this book that is packed with danger, action, resourcefulness and honor.

To Honor You Call Us (Man of War Book 1)

by H. Paul Honsinger

• File Size: 1151 KB
• Print Length: 453 pages
• Page Numbers Source ISBN: 1477848894
• Publisher: 47North (February 18, 2014)
• Publication Date: February 18, 2014
• ASIN: B00DQUKZMY

Genre: Sci Fi, Military, Space Opera

My Rating: 5.0 of 5.0

The Terran Union is engaged in a vast interstellar war against the Krag, ruthless aliens intent on exterminating humankind. In 2315, the wily Max Robichaux is given command of the USS Cumberland, a destroyer with state-of-the-art capabilities but a combat record so bad, she’s known as the “Cumberland Gap.”

Capt. Robichaux’s first mission: to take his warship to the Free Corridor, where the Krag have secretly been buying strategic materials, and to seize or destroy any ships carrying enemy cargo. Far from the fleet and under enforced radio silence, Max relies only on his determination and guile…and the support and friendship of his chief medical officer, the brilliant Dr. Sahin.

Because even as he deals with the ship’s onboard problems and the stress of carrying out her risky assignment, Max and the doctor discover that the Cumberland and her misfit crew are all that stands in the way of a deadly Krag attack that threatens to end the war—and humanity—once and for all.

A far-future story in the tradition of “ships of wood, men of iron” novels, To Honor You Call Us and the Man of War series combines the adventure of exploration, the excitement of war, and the dangers of the unknown through the eyes of a ship and her crew.

Review:
Max Robichaux is a young, bold officer who thinks fast on his feet and pushes the edge of authority. Fortunately for him and his crew mates, he has a lucky streak that more often than not helps pull his backside out of the fire. Some ‘by-the-book’ superiors might not appreciate Max’s ingenuity but in a war where human forces are dwindling, brave and creative Captains may be just what is needed. Max has been promoted to command his first ship for just these reasons.

The ship, the Cumberland, has developed a reputation of failure and the nickname of the Cumberland Gap. It will take strong leadership to get the demoralized crew to believe in themselves and their ship again. Knowing this, Max’s commander assigned a great group of sharp officers to help him turn the crew around. His XO, Garcia, is a bright, alert young man who quickly recognizes Max as a worthy leader. The new medical officer, Dr. Ibrahim (Bram) Sabin, is a brilliant physician who believes in the best care for each patient. He is an extraordinary man who knows at least five languages that could be very helpful on their mission. There are other officers, old and new, who are given the chance to improve their specialties under Max’s skillful direction and delegation. Weaknesses are uncovered in the crew along the journey and remedial action and training is a high priority as they prepare to face their enemy, the brutal Krag.

The ship’s mission is to move stealthily into neutral territories to find where the Krag have been illegally sneaking through cargoes of precious supplies. Although part of the task is intelligence gathering, Max is quick to take advantage of the opportunity to capture a few prizes. This is a big boost to the crew and one they are going to need when Max stumbles upon a treacherous enemy plot to annihilate another, neutral, species. The species doesn’t welcome any combat vessels into its borders and it is going to take every thing Max and Bram can think of to get into the space, save the planet and stay alive.

I loved the technical and tactical military details and elements of this story as well as the fast-paced, non-stop, breath-holding action. When there isn’t an active battle there are internal issues (i.e. crew lack of skills, sabotage and drug trafficking) to be addressed or character history blended in. The characters are well developed even at the secondary level. This became a team or family that I was rooting for and I empathized with the losses and joys of the crew.

I was sorry when the book came to an end and immediately bought the next book in the series so I could read it soon. I highly recommend this book to readers who enjoy strong military space opera.

I am glad I received this title at NetGalley. It is part of my NetGalley Challenge.

Martha's Bookshelf***Friday Pick Giveaway August 28, 2015

Happy Friday - 
I feel better but I still have some annoying congestion. 
Our weather dropped to cooler this week - 63 degrees F in the morning with high of 93F. 
I hope everyone is enjoying comfortable weather as we move toward Labor day. 

TO ENTER FRIDAY PICK:

US Entrants: Leave a comment and tell me WHICH BOOK you would like to get from the Friday Pick lists.
INTERNATIONAL: Leave a comment indicating "Gift Card" (see further comments near the end of the post.)

CUT OFF TIME IS THURSDAY NIGHTS AT 9:00 PM CENTRAL so I do not have to stay up to late to do the winner post! I will randomly pick two winners to announce Friday mornings with the next Pick post.

Thank you to all who entered the August 21 Pick. There were FOUR automatic wins this week. :-) Automatic wins are those who requested the book four times without other people asking for that book during those weeks. There was one title blocked again this week.
AUTO: bn100 gets Sandra Brown pair,
             CarolL gets Maybe This Time
             CarolNW gets Special Agent
and       Elizabeth gets Summer Lovin

CONGRATULATIONS
to Random.org picked Winners from August 21 Pick:
Di gets The Notorious Gentleman

Linda 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.}

I should have posted this image last week for Australia's
Aug 22 -28 Celebration of Book Week.

Image found at Madison's Library

New Book Group #59 July 31, 2015
A few more summer titles, historicals and mysteries!

PAIR:
Jillian Hunter: Daring and The Husband Hunt
Sandra Brown: The Devil's Own and Long Time Coming
ANTHOLOGIES:
That Summer Place (1998 version)by Debbie Macomber, Jill Barnett and Susan Wiggs  (sp creasing)
How to Lasso a Cowboy by Jodi Thomas, Patricia Potter and 2 more
Broken Vows, Mended Hearts by Lynn Stone, Gail Ranstrom and Anne O'Brien
3,2,1 Married! by Sharon Sala, Marie Ferrarella and Beverly Barton
SINGLES:
Only by Your Touch by Catherine Anderson
The Notorious Gentleman by Galen Foley (Spine creasing)
Cruise to a Wedding by Betty Neels
Little Girl Lost by Shirlee McCoy
Beloved Enemy by Terri Reed
Caught Redhanded by Gayle Roper
You Don't Know Jack by Erin McCarthy
Rogue by Cheryl Brooks

New Book Group #58 June 26, 2015
-- A few summer titles, a few mysteries, a few historicals...

PAIRS:
JoAnn Ross:Impulse and Far Harbor
Barbara Bretton: One and Only and Shore Lights
SINGLES:
Honeymoon by James Patterson
Sam's Letters to Jennifer by James Patterson Audio Cassette Tapes
Marriage by the Book by Joan Johnston (slight binding damage)
Summer Lovin', American Romance - Marin Thomas, Laura Marie Altom and Ann Roth
Hot Pursuit - Karen Rose, Annie Solomon and Carla Cassidy
Murders in the Mist by Willard Scott
Murder on the Atlantic by Steve Allen
Love Me Tomorrow by Rosanne Bittner (spine creasing)
The Reiver's Woman by Catherine Creel
Never Romance a Rake by Liz Carlyle
Patriot Dreams by Barbara Michaels
Sevant, The Awakening by L.L. Foster


New Book Group #57 May 1, 2015
(I'll finish the list with authors on Saturday 5/2/15)

PAIRS:
Nora Roberts: The Heart of Devin MacKade and the Pride of Jared MacKade
SINGLES:
A Little Bit Wild by Victoria Dahl
Veil of Night by Lydia Joyce
The Ruthless Greek's Virgin Princess by Trish Morey
Special Agent by Candice DeLong
Dead in The Water by Stuart Woods - Cassette Tapes
Rally Fever by Crea Jones

New Book Group #56 March 20, 2015
(I'll try to get the rest linked another day.)

PAIRS:
Catherine Lanigan: Tender Malice and Elusive Love (spine creases)
SINGLES:
Madison Avenue Marriage (Silhouette Desire #129) by Cassandra Bishop
The Sweetheart Dance by Patti Ann Colt
Where is He Now? by Jennifer Greene
Raintree Haunted by Linda Winstead Jones (spine creases)
Dear John by Nicholas Sparks


New Book Group #55 February 5, 2015
(I'll try to get the rest linked another day.)

SINGLES:
If I Had You by Deborah Bedford
The Man Who Ate the 747 by Ben Sherwood

New Book Group #54 December 26, 2014

SINGLES:
Ender’s Shadow by Orson Scott Card - Tape Cassettes


BOX 4 2015 (reboxed from Boxes 47-53)

The Secret Life of Bees by Sue Monk Kidd
The Hidden Truth of Cytech's Randall Forty byVickie Kennedy
First to Fight Anthology
Jezebel by Katherine Sutcliff
The Awakening and Selected Short Stories by Kate Chopin
Maybe This Time by Victoria Barrett
The Commander by Kate Bridges
The Cinderella Plan by Margaret Daley
The Mr. & Mrs. Happy Handbook by Steve Doocy
A Garden of Friends by Penny Pierce Rose
Richard Paul Evans PAIR: The Looking Glass and The Carousel
Duo Book: Yesterday's Memories by Tara Taylor Quinn and Amanda Stevens
Undateable by Ellen Rakieten & Anne Coyle
Sleeping with Ward Cleaver by Jenny Gardiner


BOX 3 2015 (reboxed from Boxes 39- 47)

Shetland Summer by Janet Lynnford
Breakfast in Bed by Sandra Brown - Audio Cassette Tapes (link is for mass media version)
Cattle Rancher, Secret Son by Margaret Way
Whisper on the Wind by Joan Smith
Trouble Becomes Her by Laura Van Wormer
Remember Me by Mary Higgins Clark
A Lady of Consequence by Mary Nichols
Sweet Talking Man by Betina Krain
Illegal Possession by Kay Hooper


BOX 2 2015 (reboxed from Boxes 24- 38)

Thinner by Stephen King
Foundation (Foundation Novels) by Isaac Asimov
Magic: The Gathering Distant Planes, An Anthology
The Willful Widow by Valerie King (spine wear)
Dancing on Snowflakes by Jane Bonander
An Honorable Man by Rosemary Rogers (spine creases)
A Courtesans Guide to Getting Your Man by Susan Donovan and Celeste Bradley -- 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
Tara Taylor Quinn: Father: Unknown and McGillus v.Wright
The Trailsman: Texas Lead Slingers by Jon Sharpe
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.


BOX #1 2015 (reboxed from Boxes 1- 23)

Circle of Stars by Anna Lee Waldo
Alien Chronicles - The Crimson Claw by Deborah Chester
Ghost Writer (Shivers #3) by M.D. Spenser
Death Angel by Linda Howard

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 five+ years I have posted 54 groups of 16 (864) books to find new homes! (as of February 6, 2015).

I am happy to say that so far about 857+ 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. 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!

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 $7.00 and $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)

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!

Audible Review: The Remaining by D. J. Molles

This is another 'zombie' type book that offers more with good characters, action and society issues.
The Remaining
Written by: D. J. Molles
Narrated by: Christian Rummel

Length: 8 hrs and 44 mins
Series: The Remaining, Book 1
Release Date:08-27-13
Publisher: Audible Studios
Genre: Sci Fi, Fantasy
My Rating: 4.25 of 5.0

Publisher's Summary
In a steel-and-lead-encased bunker 20 feet below the basement level of his house, a soldier waits for his final orders. On the surface, a plague ravages the planet, infecting over 90% of the populace. The bacterium burrows through the brain, destroying all signs of humanity and leaving behind little more than base, prehistoric instincts. The infected turn into hyper-aggressive predators, with an insatiable desire to kill and feed. Someday soon, the soldier will have to open the hatch to his bunker, and step out into this new wasteland, to complete his mission: Subvenire refectus. To rescue and rebuild.
The Remaining is the first book in the best-selling series, which tells a gritty tale of survival, perseverance and fighting to get back what has been lost.
©2012 D.J. Molles (P)2013 Audible, Inc.

Review:
Captain Lee Harden has had standing orders to wait in a “hole” in the event of a country disaster. He has been ordered there a few times but has always received instructions to resurface after a short time. This time however he is waiting for communication from his superior which doesn’t come. The last news that Lee heard was that a plague has infected 90% of the population leaving them brutal predators, spreading the decease by biting others. After a time of silence Lee opens his Orders telling him that is one of a select group of soldiers who are to surface to rescue and gather survivors to rebuild.

Lee emerges from his safe fortress and begins to look for other healthy survivors. Initially he finds horrible evidence of the infected hordes. If that is not bad enough he finds uninfected stragglers only to discover some have already submitted to evil and power becoming wicked men preying on the weak, ransacking homes and threatening the few remaining humans. Lee loses friends and new acquaintances while he tries to find a group that he can help and that will accept his help.

I really like Lee’s character -- he is strong and smart but not invincible. He copes by reminding himself that "the only easy day was yesterday". He has a basic sense of honor that allows him to talk before shooting even though that can be risky. There is plenty of action in the story along with an interesting picture of how society might break down in a plague infested environment.

It seems I am reading a few zombie books lately when that wasn’t necessarily my intent. This is not really "zombie" as these are plague infected beings who are aggressive but do not come back to life when killed. I am glad that this has more story beyond the "infected" hordes. This first book sets up the situation and leaves the ending open to continue in the next book. This might annoy some people. Since I already had book three I did get book two so I could see how the series progresses. Zombie fans should definitely try this but I also think those who like end of the world, military action might like it too.

Audio notes: Christian Rummel provides a very solid narration. He really nails Lee’s personality and manages to convey the other characters with appropriate voices and nuances. The narration enhanced the story for me and I will be listening to the next books too.

I had this in my Audible Library from Feb 2015. It is part of my Audio Challenge. 

Audible Review: Petticoat Detective by Margaret Brownley

I enjoyed the female Pinkerton operative in this sweet romance with mystery.

Petticoat Detective

Written by: Margaret Brownley

Narrated by: Jaimee Draper

Length: 9 hrs and 33 mins 

Unabridged Audiobook

Release Date:12-01-14

Publisher: Barbour Publishing, Inc.

Genre: Historical Romance

My Rating 4.0 of 5.0

Publisher's Summary

Pinkerton detective Jennifer Layne is no stranger to undercover work. But posing as a lady companion named Amy at Miss Lillian’s Parlor House and Boots is a first for her. She’s finally landed a high-profile case and is on the trail of the notorious Gunnysack Bandit, when one of Miss Lillian’s girls essential to her investigation meets an untimely demise. Only a handful of people are in the house at the time of her death, including handsome Tom Colton, a former Texas Ranger determined to clear his brother’s name. Amy has many reasons to suspect Tom of murder - and one very personal reason to hope that she’s wrong about him.

©2014 Margaret Brownley (P)2014 Barbour Publishing, Inc.

Review:
Jennifer is a feisty young woman always needing to prove her worth as a female Pinkerton detective. She often surprises the criminals and the lawmen. Her current job has her tracking the notorious Gunnysack Bandit. Clues have led her to Miss Lillian’s Parlor House and Boots where she decides to go undercover as one of Lillian’s girls. This is a challenge as she isn’t comfortable in the make-up or clothes but she has a job to do. Usually her undercover work doesn’t cause such confusion with her faith either.

Jennifer is trying to interview Rose but before she gets to the girl she is found dead. The suspects in the house include Miss Lillian and the girls, one man who was leaving the house and Tom Colton. Tom is a handsome man who stumbled into Amy (Jennifer) while he too was looking for Rose. Tom is a former Texas Ranger trying to find out details of his brother’s movements before his death.

Amy can’t let a handsome man sway her and Tom is included in her investigations. Amy grows closer to the girls and even becomes friends as she learns their histories and struggles. She and Tom dance around their attraction as they hide their motives from each other.

I enjoyed the characters, the mystery and the good light humor. The history of conflict with females in the Pinkerton Agency is interesting. I liked how Jennifer/Amy cared for the women and their circumstances. Her actions encouraged the others and helped change the lives of those around her. At least one scene is particularly crazy as the girls try to help trap the villain - it was not realistic but it was fun.

The faith is simply expressed in thought, prayer and action. The story moves along well and I liked the sweetness. I enjoy Ms. Brownley's writing which provides a reliable light read. I recommend this to those who enjoy sweet historical fiction with mystery elements.

Audio Notes: The narration was not very impressive. Jaimee Draper added a little extra to the personalities of the characters but for the most part it was a reading rather than a performance. I liked the audio because it is easy to listen but this might be just as enjoyable as a print or ebook.

I selected this one from my Audible library. It is part of my Audio Challenge.

Sunday Post August 23, 2015/It's Monday! What are You Reading? Plus Mailbox Monday August 24, 2015

I am linking with Sunday Post at Caffeinated Book Reviewer.
It's Monday! at Book Journey may be active again in September.

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.

I am finishing a second round of antibotics and hoping that I will finally feel all better. 

We had family here this week so I had to fit reading and computer time in late at night or early in the mornings. 
I finished two good books: one ebook, and one audio. I posted three reviews and posted the usual memes.

I only visited a few spots last week so I have to make a better effort this week.
Thanks as always to all the nice people who visit me.

These were last week's posts:

• Sunday Post August 16, 2015/It's Monday! What are You Reading? Plus Mailbox Monday August 17, 2015.

• Audible Review: 14 by Peter Clines; Sci Fi; my rating 4.5.

• Friday Pick Giveaway August 21, 2015. Open Worldwide. Ends 8/27/2015.

• Book Review: Dark Horse by Michelle Diener; Sci Fi, Space Opera; my rating 5.0.

• Book Review: A City Called Smoke: The Territory 2 by Justin Woolley; Science Fiction, Action Adventure; my rating 4.25.

• Sharing Beyond Books #216 Comment Giveaway for August 22, 2015. Open Worldwide. Ends 8/29/2015.

• Sunday Words of Encouragement August 23, 2015.

Finished Reading:

1. eBook/Kindle

To Honor You Call Us (Man of War Book 1)
by H. Paul Honsinger
I really liked this and am looking forward 
to the next book in the series.
I received this from NetGalley.
Click on book title for full description.

2. Audible

The Witch with No Name: The Hollows, Book 13
Written by: Kim Harrison
Narrated by: Marguerite Gavin
This was a good conclusion to a great series.
This was in my Audible Library from Sept. 2014.
Click on book title for full description.

Currently reading:

1. eBook/Kindle

Secrets at Maple Syrup Farm (Once in a Lifetime)
by Rebecca Raisin
I am 30% into this small town contemporary.
I selected this at NetGalley.
Maple sugar kisses
Click on book title for full description.

2. Audible

Resurrecting Home: A Novel
Written by: A. American
Narrated by: Duke Fontaine
I picked this up so I could find out what happens to the surviving characters next in this action-packed series.
This is from my own Audible library.
Publisher's Summary
Against all odds, Morgan Carter and his family have endured despite the deteriorating conditions surrounding them. Armed with survivalist tactics, Morgan's crew, alongside their new friends from the recently-liberated DHS camp, have worked together to build a sustainable community. But not all situations can be prepared for. When a massive wildfire threatens their very existence, they must decide: fight or flight?
From the author of the hit Survivalist Series books, Resurrecting Home is an action-packed adventure that depicts the harrowing possibilities of a world gone awry, and the courage it takes to protect what matters most.
©2014 A. American (P)2014 Penguin Audio

3. eBook/Kindle

The Banished of Muirwood (Covenant of Muirwood Book 1)

by Jeff Wheeler
I plan to start this later in the week.
I received this through NetGalley.
In a world full of magic and mystery, eighteen-year-old Maia is the exiled princess of Comoros and rightful heir to the throne. Forced to live as a servant in her enemy’s home, Maia flees her captors and begins a perilous quest to save her people. To survive, she must use magic she has learned in secret—despite the fact that women are forbidden to control it. Hunted by enemies at every turn, Maia realizes that danger lurks within her, too. Her powers threaten to steal not only her consciousness but also her sense of right and wrong. Can she set herself free and save the realm she loves—even if her people have forgotten her? In bestselling author Jeff Wheeler’s fantasy epic, the answer may be only the beginning to Maia’s journey throughout the mystical land of Muirwood.

4. Audible

Waking the Bear: Broken Chains, Book 1
Written by: Kerry Adrienne
Narrated by: Jason P. Hilton
I received this for review from Barclay Publicity.
Publisher's Summary
Overprotective bear shifter, Griff Martin, reluctantly rents his mountain cabin to an artist, Amy Francis. He quickly realizes the plucky artist is his mate. But danger is brewing in the forest, and Griff has to be ready to safeguard both his female and his den, at the risk of losing both.
©2015 Kerry Adrienne (P)2015 Kerry Adrienne.

June 1, 2015- I am still up to date on Bible reading and greatly enjoying the readings-- It seems my eyes are open to more details and meaning.. I am reading The One Year Bible again along with my husband and others from our church. I am also listening to the companion commentary online.

I posted three reviews last week which left two plus two new for this week. I hope I will be able to catch up this week. 
I finished one and am reading two books from NetGalley. I added one new book so my waiting shelf has five NetGalley titles.
I want to pull in more TBRs soon. 

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 an audiobook for review and added one new NetGalley title this past week.
I ; I selected my two Audible choices and purchased one Kindle book.
I picked up a free Audible title as well as adding more free kindle titles to my library.

(I still have many author requests, old and new ones, to consider and reply to.)

Are your mailbox and TBR piles blooming?

Review Titles

I received this audiobook for review from Barclay Publicity:


Waking the Bear: Broken Chains, Book 1
Written by: Kerry Adrienne
Narrated by: Jason P. Hilton
Romantic Fantasy.


I selected one title at NetGalley this week.

Death of the Blue Flower
by Roxann Hill (Author), Paul Wagle (Translator)
An ex-con and "chemo-ravaged police detective" "follow a bloody trail into a world of betrayal, revenge, and murder, with motives that reach far back into an appalling past."...
Will they be able to uncover the truth before the past catches up with them?

Won

I won an audiobook Giveaway at Silver's Reviews. 


I received two CD audio books by Alexandra Sokoloff today from Brilliance Audio: 
Blood Moon

and Cold Moon

Thank you to Alexandra Sokoloff, Brilliance Audio and Elizabeth at Silver's Review.

Purchased

NONE

Free

Over the past week I again added 52 free Kindle titles to my library this week. Titles found linked through Bookbub, Bookfun, Ereader News Today, Free Par-tay, Ignite Your Book, Inspired Reads, Pixel of Ink or Kindle ebooks.