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Sunday, November 29, 2015

Sunday Post November 29, 2015/It's Monday! What are You Reading? Plus Mailbox Monday November 30, 2015




I am linking with Sunday Post at Caffeinated Book Reviewer.
It's Monday! What Are You Reading now at The Book Date.
Thank you to Sheila for the years that she handled this meme.
Thank you to Kathryn for taking up the baton.

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 had a lovely week visiting in Biloxi for Thanksgiving with family. I even got to drive the RV part way home. I was nervous but I did just fine.
My reading and listening went well with four books completed. I finished two audiobooks, and two ebooks . I posted three reviews, a Thanks from a reader and the usual memes.

I enjoyed visiting other bloggers again at the beginning of the week.
Thanks as always to all the nice people who visit me.

These were last week's posts:
  • Book Review and Tour Giveaway: Steal Me (NYPD's Finest) by Lauren Layne ; Romantic Suspense; my rating 4.5. Ends 11/29/15.

Finished Reading:
1. eBook/Kindle


Joy to the Worlds: Mysterious Speculative Fiction for the Holidays
by Maia Chance , Janine A. Southard, Raven Oak,G. Clemans
I liked this different collection - 
several time travel stories.
I will post the review this week.
Click on book title for full description.



2. Audible/MP3


Omega Rising: Omega Force, Book 1
Written by: Joshua Dalzelle
Narrated by: Paul Heitsch
This is another Sci Fi that I chose
and received through Audiobook Jukebox.
This was an engaging start to a space series.
Click on book title for full description.



3. Audible/MP3


Silent Night, Holy Night:
A Colleen Coble Christmas Collection
Written by: Colleen Coble
Narrated by: Devon O'Day
I thought this would be perfect for the season.
The stories are okay but not as good as I hoped.
This was on my TBR Audible shelf.
Publisher's Summary
Tis the season for mystery and romance featuring characters from two of Colleen Coble’s most popular series!
As Christmas day nears, Bree Matthews and her faithful search-and-rescue dog Samson follow the trail of a troubling mystery into the snowy forests of Rock Harbor.Newlywed Bree Matthews and her husband Kade are preparing for Christmas guests when word arrives that a parachuter has disappeared in the North Woods, along Lake Superior's icy shore. Bree and Samson plunge into the search.
Will this snowy, silent night search lead Bree and Samson to the missing girl?
Holy Night
One sinister phone call has derailed their Christmas wedding. Will it keep them apart forever?Leia and Bane are looking forward to their long-awaited Christmas wedding on the beach. Everything is going as planned - until Leia's phone rings and her world skids out of control. A muffled voice informs Leia that her sister has been kidnapped and will be killed unless Leia calls off the wedding without explanation - and no police. If she disobeys instructions and tells Bane, she'll risk her beloved sister's life. But can she handle this trauma without his help? And will he ever trust her again if she lies to him now?
Irresistible romance meets thrilling suspense in this holiday update to USA Today best-selling author Colleen Coble's Aloha Reef series.
©2014 Thomas Nelson Publishers (P)2014 Thomas Nelson Publishers



4. ebook/Kindle


Sheltering Hearts (Virgin River Book 11)
by Robyn Carr
I liked this novella which focuses on the needs of single mothers.
This is Book 9 for my TBR Pile Challenge.




Currently reading:
1. Audible/MP3


Suspect
Written by: Robert Crais
Narrated by: MacLeod Andrews
I didn't re-read the blurb
so I was a bit surprised as this started.
I am loving this audio at 37% in.
This is from my Audible TBR shelf.
Publisher's Summary
Audie Award Finalist, Thriller/Suspense, 2014
For 25 years, Robert Crais has written extraordinary novels of crime and suspense. He is "a master of crime fiction" (Associated Press); "his novels get better with every new book" (Portland Oregonian); "Crais is hands-down the world’s greatest crime writer" (The Huffington Post).
But in Suspect, he may have written his most remarkable novel of all.
LAPD cop Scott James is not doing so well, not since a shocking nighttime assault by unidentified men killed his partner, Stephanie, nearly killed him, and left him enraged, ashamed, and ready to explode. He is unfit for duty - until he meets his new partner.
Maggie is not doing so well, either. The German shepherd survived three tours in Iraq and Afghanistan sniffing explosives before she lost her handler to an IED and sniper attack, and her PTSD is as bad as Scott’s.
They are each other’s last chance. He was a young cop on the rise; she was bred to guard and protect. Now they are shunned and shunted to the side. They are suspect. And together they will set out to investigate the one case that no one wants them to touch: the identity of the men who murdered Stephanie.
Nine months and sixteen days later, they remained free. They were still out there.
What they begin to find is nothing like what Scott has been told, and where it will lead them will take them both through the darkest moments of their own personal hells. Whether they will make it out again, no one can say.
Thrilling, emotional, intense, with some of the best characters and well-crafted writing in all of crime fiction, Suspect is further proof that "Crais just keeps getting better" (Publishers Weekly).
©2013 Robert Crais (P)2013 Brilliance Audio, Inc.



2. eBook/Kindle


The 12 Brides of Christmas Collection: 12 Heartwarming
Historical Romances for the Season of Love
by Mary Connealy (Author), Diana Lesire Brandmeyer (Author), Margaret Brownley (Author), & 9 more
At 546 pages in length this may take the week.
This is (might be) my last NetGalley title to be read for the year.
Click on book title for full description.



3. eBook/Kindle (Print)


A Change of Fortune (Ladies of Distinction Book #1)
by Jen Turano
 I purchased this book in print for Ladies Book Club.
(I purchased it at Amazon for my reading.)
This is our November read to be discussed 12/5/15.
Lady Eliza Sumner is on a mission. After losing her family, her fiance, and her faith, the disappearance of her fortune is the last straw. Now, masquerading as Miss Eliza Sumner, governess-at-large, she's determined to find the man who ran off with her fortune, reclaim the money, and head straight back to London.
Much to Mr. Hamilton Beckett's chagrin, all the eyes of New York society--all the female ones, at least--are on him. Unfortunately for all the matchmaking mothers and eligible daughters, he has no plans to marry again, especially with his hands full keeping his business afloat and raising his two children alone.
When Eliza's hapless attempts to regain her fortune put her right in Hamilton's path, sparks instantly begin to fly. The discovery of a common nemesis causes them to join forces, but with all their plans falling by the wayside and their enemies getting the better of them, it will take a riot of complications for Hamilton and Eliza to realize that God just might have had a better plan in mind all along.
"Set in New York City circa 1880, Turano's historical romance has witty dialogue, a spunky heroine, a bounty of humor, and a fast-paced plot. There are wonderful secondary characters, too, including an ankle-biting boy, a relentlessly matchmaking mother, and a full cast of despicable villains. A Change of Fortune will make a delightful addition to any library." --Booklist (starred review)
"Turano's charming story of losing and gaining both wealth and love in 1880s New York City will certainly please fans of witty and classic romance stories."--RT Book Review
"[A] delightfully lighthearted debut novel."--Desert News


October 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 keeps me up to date with four for this week. I finished one NetGalley selection and added the last one on my shelf -- at the time. (There is one other but it has to be read on the computer so I'm not sure if I will get to it so I haven't been counting it.)
I have read 9 of my 12 TBR Pile books.  The last three are full novels so I will have to read one a week after the Netgalley reading is complete.


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 did select one NetGalley title for 2016.
I purchased one kindle title at $.26.
And of course I added more free kindle titles to my library.

Are your mailbox and TBR piles blooming?

Review Titles
I picked out on;y one title at NetGalley although I have my eye on a couple others for 2016:

Night Study
by Maria V. Snyder
This releases in January 26, 2016 so I can save it for January reading.
I really like this series and thought I would see if it was available at NetGalley since I saw other bloggers reading it.


Won

NONE

Purchased
I stumbled across this for the strange, but very affordable (click) price of $.26.

A Texas Christmas: Six Romances from the Historic Lone Star State Herald the Season of Love
Ramona K. Cecil, Lena Nelson Dooley, Darlene Franklin, Pamela Griffin, Cathy Marie Hake, Kathleen Y'Barbo
This looked charming and I couldn't resist at the price. :-)


Free

Over the past week I added 48 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.
at 12 comments:

Sunday Words of Encouragement November 29, 2015

I had prepared thoughts from an older Sunday School message but then I was directed to a different song and brief message for the conclusion of Thanksgiving week.
I gave a short devotional a week ago for our Women's Club. I found the wisdom in a sweet book, Tell Me Again Lord I Forget by Ruth Harms Calkin. The message was that we are often ready to give thanks for blessings but do we ever stop to give thanks for the divine "No"?
Another woman shared that her pastor son reminds her that God answers prayer in four ways: Yes, No, Not Now and I have a better plan.

I found this song Saturday night while preparing for this post and it fits perfectly.
Verse for Today
James 1:12 NIV
“Blessed is the one who perseveres under trial because, having stood the test, that person will receive the crown of life that the Lord has promised to those who love him.”


As I gave thanks this past week, I was mindful to give thanks for the times God told me "No" and "I have a better plan". In ALL things, Lord - I give thanks to YOU.
at No comments:

Saturday, November 28, 2015

Sharing Beyond Books #229 November 28, 2015

Hello again and Welcome to Sharing Beyond Books, SBB!
I hope everyone has had a lovely week and maybe a little time to relax. Our weather started the week cold but finished beautifully. We've had a grand visit with our son and family. :-)

Thanks to everyone who commented last week.
Most of us (eight) had not seen bookish accessory blogs/ads. Also most of us agreed that it wouldn't change our choices. Two think it is too early to think about gifts for Christmas and two only want books, with a third only wanting adult coloring books.

~~~~~

The Winner from SBB #228 comments is: #10 Linda  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 - maybe the beginning of next year, lol. Please let me know your choice by completing the (new) WINNER FORM.

WEEK #229 (One Question.)

Nikki asks: 1) If you were given the choice of getting one book, would it be a book from a brand new and positively reviewed series or would it be a book from a series you are currently collecting??
This is such a hard question and one I face often. When I am choosing a review book or how to "spend" my audible credits I am often weighing the choice of picking the next title in a series I love or am collecting or picking a book from a new series. I try to get to both. However, based on my last few Audible choices I think I have chosen books in series I am currently collecting. Three examples: The Monster Hunter Series; The Destroyermen Series; The Andy Carpenter Series.
 There is truth in this quote. :-)
Image found at Lifehack.

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.
THE COMMENTS IN NOVEMBER WERE FROM: bn100, Elizabeth, Miki and Nikki. The Comment winner for November is ELIZABETH.

Your turn to share:
Nikki asks: 1) If you were given the choice of getting one book, would it be a book from a brand new and positively reviewed series or would it be a book from a series you are currently collecting??

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 December 5, 2015 at 5 PM central.
at 17 comments:

Friday, November 27, 2015

Audio Review: Special Talents: Goon Squad, Vol. 1 by Jonathan L. Howard

This is fun listening entertainment in the style of Marvel superheroes – with offbeat talents!
Special Talents: Goon Squad, Vol. 1
Written by: Jonathan L. Howard
Narrated by: Gabrielle de Cuir
Length: 4 hrs and 42 mins
Series: Goon Squad, Book 1
Unabridged Audiobook
Release Date:08-25-15
Publisher: Blackstone Audio Inc. and Skyboat Media, Inc.
Genre: Sci Fi, Fantasy
My Rating: 4.5 of 5.0


Publisher's Summary
An ongoing, episodic "prose comic" from which the pictures are summoned by the magic of words, Goon Squad is set in a version of modern-day Manchester. Its biggest divergence from the real city is that it - along with most other large urban centers - has a team of superheroes to protect it against unusual threats with which the conventional forces of law and order would have problems.
Goon Squad, Volume 1: Special Talents is composed of six tales: "The New Girl", "Nightclubbing", "By the Water, by the Grave", "Changes", "No-No Dojo", and "Exterminating Angel" as well as an introduction read by the author.
©2015 Jonathan L. Howard (P)2015 Blackstone Audio, Inc., and Skyboat Media, Inc.


Review:
Nadiya has a very special talent. At one time she was part of a minor crime group and earned the name “puppet girl”. Over the past year Nadiya has succeeded in suppressing her skill. Then a quick stop at a local mini-market changes her life. She is present when two young thugs commit armed robbery, knocking an older woman to the floor. Nadiya watches the thugs exit the store and her anger grows. She loses her control and manages to bring down the thugs and hold them until the cops arrive. Nadiya is taken to the police station before she can leave town. She expects trouble but is surprised when a man, who has previously warned her, appears to interview her. Nadiya is surprised to be recruited to an unusual crime group – the special talents force - known to the others as “the Goon Squad”.

Nadiya meets her three new team mates, each with their own special talent. Ian is clearly a “dead man” walking, Gilbert appears to be a geek interested in history, and Tessler is a huge metallic robot. Nadiya isn’t told of their skills, and they don’t learn the full extent of her abilities, until they are suddenly called into action. Although there is some stumbling in the pursuit of the gangsters they are after, the Goon Squad, working together, finally manage to complete their assignment.

Think of The X Men or Marvel superheroes with unusual - as in paranormal - talents. This very fun story starts with an introduction from the author that begins: “Hello, and welcome to the first volume of the Goon Squad saga. I’m Jonathan L. Howard, and I wrote it, so I’m to blame. Sorry about that.” No need to be sorry. I found the characters and stories delightfully fun and the sound effects included in the audio book add to the entertainment. The first story, The New Girl, sets the stage, introducing Nadiya to the squad. "Nightclubbing" is her first experience in the field which could have gone better if she had been prepped. "By the Water, by the Grave" continues the team’s efforts to capture the mobster, Des Garbo, as they track him through a graveyard. "Changes" shares some difficulties that Ian has observed over the years, while "No-No Dojo" gets Nadiya some desperately needed training. In the final installment, "Exterminating Angel", the team faces a truly deadly power that takes some non-human help to overcome.

The characters are developed through the short story collection. The stories fit together like an old time radio serial. The author’s wonderfully creative imagination and humor quickly shine through. I will definitely look to pick up Volume two in the audio format for more unusual crime fighting stories from the Goon Squad. The stories are available individually in eBook format.

Audio Notes: Gabrielle de Cuir does a great job with each of the voices, British and others. The underlying humor comes through easily in the narration and the sound effects enhance the listening experience. This is a quick listen (under five hours) of entertainment that I recommend in audio format.

I received this title through Audiobook Jukebox. It qualifies as part of my Audio Challenge.

#1 The New Girl; #2 Nightclubbing; #3 By the Water, by The Grave; #4 Exterminating Angel
at 1 comment:

Martha's Bookshelf***Friday Pick Giveaway November 27, 2015

Happy Friday.
We had a lovely Thanksgiving day with our son, d-i-l and granddaughter. We are visiting with our RV. 
There is one more week of double winners. {As I noted last week I celebrate Friday Pick's anniversary (year 6) during the month of November. I like to award extra wins in November so this week and the next three weeks will have some extra winners. I have now posted 62 groups of 16 books so the total books up for grabs has come to 992! Happy Picking!}

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 too late to do the winner post! I will randomly pick two + TWO (from 11/6 - 11/27) winners to announce Friday mornings with the next Pick post.

Thank you to all who entered the November 20 Pick. There were THREE 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 were no blocked titles.
AUTO: Betty gets Mr. & Mrs. Happy Handbook
Di gets The Bride Thief 
and Alyn gets the Jane Feather Pair
CONGRATULATIONS
to Random.org picked Winners from November 20 Pick:
Becky gets The Joan Johnston Pair
Jess1 gets The DeBurgh Bride
CarolL gets A Highlander for Christmas
Marjorie 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 don't know if the turkey got to read but I read three Thanksgiving books to our Sweetpea!
Image found at Inspiring Moms.

 New Book Group #62 November 6, 2015
(I was getting ready to leave the office and realized I hadn't taken the photo of the books yet.
I took this very quickly. I may try to get another next week but this will have to do for now.)

PAIRS
Joan Johnston – Colter’s Wife and The Rivals
Nora Roberts – Born in Ice and Carnal Innocence
SINGLES
The Wedding Night by Jane Ann Krentz
The Marriage Prize by Virginia Henley
In Shelter Cove by Barbara Freethy
Into the Valley by Rosanne Bittner
Never Look Back by Linda Lael Miller
The Sleeping Doll by Jeffery Deaver – CD Audiobook
Touch Me by Beverly Rae (personally autographed)
Driven by Desire by LuAnn McLane (personally autographed)
To Marry a British Lord by Judith Obrien
A Highlander For Christmas by Sandy Blair
A Midnight Clear by Katherine Stone (slight seam creasing)
Silver Bells by JoAnn Ross, Fern Michaels, Mary Burton, Judy Duarte


New Book Group #61 October 30, 2015
After I noticed the trend I went on a hunt for “bride” titles. I even pulled a couple from some of my long time collections(*). (But they are not getting read on my shelves.)

PAIRS:
Leigh Greenwood –  The Reluctant Bride and The Independent Bride
Jane Feather(*) – The Hostage Bride and The Accidental Bride
SINGLES:
The de Burgh Bride by Deborah Simmons
The Forever Bride by Evelyn Rogers (Seam creasing)
Short Straw Bride by Dallas Schultz
The Bride Thief by Susan Spencer Paul
Bride by Stella Cameron (Seam creasing) (*)
An Unwilling Bride by Jo Beverley (*)
Bride Enchanted by Edith Layton
The Maiden Bride by Linda Needham (hardback)
Bride of Lochbarr by Margaret Moore (*)
The Ideal Bride by Stephanie Laurens (*)
Honor’s Bride by Galye Wilson
A Necessary Bride by Debra Mullins
Border Bride by Deborah Hale


New Book Group #60 September 18, 2015
A set of "haunting" tales and a few mysteries for October!

Shannon Drake –  Realm of Shadows (Alliance Vampires#4) 
SINGLES:
Bloody Good by Georgia Evans
Cat of Nine Tales by Deborah Macgillivray
The Shadowing by Joan Overfield
The Renegade Hunter by Lynsay Sands
Trilogy Of Mysteries Audio Book Shadow Prey, There Was A Little Girl, Smokescreen Audio Cassettes (NOT CDs)


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

ANTHOLOGIES:
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:
Cruise to a Wedding by Betty Neels
Little Girl Lost by Shirlee McCoy
You Don't Know Jack by Erin McCarthy

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

SINGLES:
Sevant, The Awakening by L.L. Foster

New Book Group #57 May 1, 2015


SINGLES:
A Little Bit Wild by Victoria Dahl
The Ruthless Greek's Virgin Princess by Trish Morey
Rally Fever by Crea Jones

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

SINGLES:
The Sweetheart Dance by Patti Ann Colt
Raintree Haunted by Linda Winstead Jones (spine creases)

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 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
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
Remember Me by Mary Higgins Clark
A Lady of Consequence by Mary Nichols
Sweet Talking Man by Betina Krain


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 almost six years I have posted 62 groups of 16 (992) books to find new homes! (as of November 6, 2015).

I am happy to say that so far about 899+ 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!
at 19 comments:

Thursday, November 26, 2015

Happy Thanksgiving from a Reader

I thought I'd make this an author's quotes for Thanksgiving.

HAPPY THANKSGIVING! GIVE THANKS!
Have a beautiful day with loved ones.














at 5 comments:

Wednesday, November 25, 2015

Book Review and Tour Giveaway: Steal Me (NYPD's Finest) by Lauren Layne

This is an engaging and well done romantic suspense.
Steal Me (NYPD's Finest)
by Lauren Layne

  • File Size: 582 KB
  • Print Length: 352 pages
  • Publisher: Forever (November 24, 2015)
  • ASIN: B00U6DNY7W
Genre: Romantic Suspense
My Rating: 4.5 of 5.0


IN HOT PURSUIT
Being a cop might be in Anthony Moretti's blood, but protecting and serving the city of New York has always been more than just the family business. If that means his love life stays locked up, well then that's just another sacrifice made in the line of duty. That is, until he sets eyes on the gorgeous new waitress at The Darby Diner and suddenly Anthony's morning coffee is leaving him a whole lot more hot and bothered than usual.
Though waitressing at The Darby isn't exactly Maggie Walker's dream job, it pays the bills and gives her time to work on her novel. Now if only she could stop fantasizing about gorgeous Anthony Moretti every time he sits down at her table, she'd really be in great shape. But when he needs her help identifying a criminal threatening The Darby-and Maggie recognizes her ex-husband-she fears her fresh start might be a pipe dream. Faster than a New York minute, Maggie and Anthony find themselves in one perilous pursuit that only gets hotter with each and every rule-breaking kiss.


Review:
Maggie enjoys serving food to the Moretti family who visit The Darby restaurant. They are warm and friendly towards her – except Anthony. When he isn’t scowling at her for spilling drink or food on him, he is gruffly reminding her to call him “Captain”. Maggie doesn’t want to spend years waitressing, but right now it pays the bills as she writes her first novel. She is recovering from her divorce to her shiftless ex-husband, Eddie. Her efforts to save have also been tapped by her alcoholic father and wastrel brother. Maggie has a history of letting men in her life ‘use her’, leaching money, as well as emotions.

Anthony is focused on following in his father’s footsteps all the way to Police Commissioner. He has recently been promoted to Captain but has run into a stumbling block of a crime spree. A petty thief is roaming town stealing minor items and leaving his calling card – a smiley sticker. Anthony is frustrated by the frequency of the thefts especially as the media hypes up how the robber, known as ‘Smiley’, is eluding the police.

Anthony and Maggie are at arm’s length until she spots a sketch of the thief in the papers he is studying over lunch. Maggie recognizes that face and presents the best lead in the case.

Maggie is the only informant on his top case and Anth knows he should be staying away from her. Besides, Anthony has reason to think his work and a relationship can never mix. Too bad emotions and attraction don’t always stay logically in control. The case heats up and so does their relationship. Maggie wants to help, but doesn’t want to just be used for the case. Is there any way to avoid a crash for Anth and a heartbreak for Maggie?

I enjoyed the tone of this novel from the very beginning. You could tell that Maggie and Anthony are characters who would dance away from each other until something brings them together. Ms. Layne does a great job of mixing the chemistry and building the tension. The mystery develops strength alongside the reluctant relationship. Ultimately there are two pretty heavy sexual encounters but they were nicely done with a lot of steam, and no real crassness.

The large Moretti family make for great secondary characters and I would anticipate stories for each of the other siblings. This is the second book after Frisk Me, the story for Luc.  I would be interested in reading more novels by Ms. Layne. I recommend this title to readers who enjoy sexy romance with great build up and a sound plot as a foundation.

I received this title through NetGalley for tour review and feature for Forever Romance.


Amazon: http://amzn.to/1kbncdn
B&N: http://bit.ly/1RUCX2P
iBooks: http://apple.co/1WwEbry
Kobo: http://bit.ly/1klj9Ls
BAM!: http://bit.ly/1l87YpG
Google Play: http://bit.ly/1NQnHDk

About Lauren Layne
A long-time romance reader, Lauren Layne thinks the only thing better than reading about happy endings is writing them. She now pursues a full-time career in Happily Ever After, a job she's naturally suited for after marrying her high school sweetheart. A bit of a nomad, Lauren's lived everywhere from Orange County to Manhattan, and currently lives in the Seattle-area. Her hobbies include coffee by day, wine by night, and lots of writing in between. She's also a total website nerd and insists you check out laurenlayne.com!

RAFFLECOPTER GIVEAWAY:
Ends 11/28/2015.
a Rafflecopter giveaway



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Tuesday, November 24, 2015

Book Review and Giveaways (print and ebook): You Know What I'm Sayin'?: Poetry * Drama by Daniel García Ordaz

I really enjoyed the tempos and cultural experience of this collection.
You Know What I'm Sayin'?: Poetry * Drama
by Daniel García Ordaz


  • Paperback: 80 pages
  • Publisher: El Zarape Press; 2nd edition (August 7, 2011)
  • Language: English, Spanish
    • ISBN-13: 978-0978995416
Genre: Poetry, Drama
My Rating: 4.5 of 5.0


El Zarape Press presents its first collection of poetry by the eclectic Daniel García Ordaz, The Poet Mariachi, "the voice of the Rio Grande Valley" (Texas), an emerging voice in Chicano literature. You Know What I'm Sayin'? is a celebration of the common experience of language and culture transfiguring time and place and juxtaposing the politics of urban hip-hop America with the lyricism of rural deep South Texas, a retelling of ancient history sung by a contemporary voice. With an introduction by Fulbright Scholar Dr. Debbie Cole, a linguistic anthropologist. Mainly English; some bilingual (English/Spanish), Tex-Mex and pieces. Hispanic/Latino themes as well as All-American experiences relevant and appropriate for 3rd grade to college-level.


Review:
This is a decidedly different read for me and I greatly enjoyed it. I do like to read poetry – I just haven’t done so for some time. I don’t always think of poetry in a sense of “tempo” but you couldn’t read this collection without feeling the depth of rhythm. I could hear the hip-hop or jazz beat with the rhyme and that made it fun to read. There is even a very Spanish poem, These Are a Few of My Favorite “Che’s”, set to the tune of “A Few of My Favorite Things”.
Chitos, Chalupas
and Chilaquiles,

Cholos and Chukos,
Chales and Chiles,

Chelas and Cha-Chas,
and Chocolate,
These are a few of my favorite “che’s”.
And that is just the first verse!

Another plus in this collection is the sharing of the author’s personal view of a different culture. Yes, there was some Spanish I didn’t understand, but even that made sense in its adjacent context. The majority of pieces share images of a culture very different from my growing up place and yet many of the social themes cross over culture and class. I found it interesting to see poems about Affirmative Action and Mohammad Ali (Ode to a Butterfly II). The works are “rich”in imagery of coming of age, poverty, a young man’s ‘fancy’, racial issues and other expressions of life. Daniel makes beautiful use of language - English and Spanish.

Here is a quick bit of wisdom that any reader can appreciate:
Literary Séance
You don’t have to die
To speak to the dead.

Read instead.
A big thank you goes out to Daniel. I enjoyed meeting him at EPICon 2015 and I appreciate seeing a bit of his Hispanic American culture through this book. I was torn between keeping this personally autographed collection or sharing it with others. The solution: I will gift a print copy to one commenter and gift an ebook to another.

I was gifted this book by the author in March at EPICon 2015.

GIVEAWAY 
ONE new PRINT (US Only) 
and one Kindle eBook (Worldwide)


(Don't forget to fill in the form for entry!
I have noticed a few commenters who forgot to enter through the Form.)
For 3 Extra Bonus entries
(a) comment on the review, OR
(b) Visit the AUTHOR'S QUOTE site and tell me a quote you like there.

* This contest is open to US only for Print; Worldwide for eBook.
* This contest will close 5 PM (Central) December 1, 2015.
WINNER WILL BE ANNOUNCED after December 1, 2015.
Winners will have 72 hours to respond on the winners form linked in the announcement or by email.
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Sunday, November 22, 2015

Sunday Post November 22, 2015/It's Monday! What are You Reading? Plus Mailbox Monday November 23, 2015




I am linking with Sunday Post at Caffeinated Book Reviewer.
It's Monday! What Are You Reading now at The Book Date.
Thank you to Sheila for the years that she handled this meme.
Thank you to Kathryn for taking up the baton.

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.

This was another busy work week - title, law and publishing.   

 My reading and listening was fun with three books completed. I finished two audiobooks, and one ebook with a second one started. I posted four reviews and the usual memes.

I enjoyed visiting (but didn't to reply here) other bloggers at the beginning of the week.
Thanks as always to all the nice people who visit me.

These were last week's posts:
  • Book Review: Power of the Matchmaker by Karey White, Rachael Anderson, Kelly Oram, & 9 more; Romance, Novella; my rating 4.5.

Finished Reading:
1. Audible/MP3


Day by Day Armageddon: Beyond Exile
Written by: J. L. Bourne
Narrated by: Jay Snyder
This is entertaining.
My review for this is linked above.
Click on book title for full description.



2. eBook/Kindle


Steal Me (NYPD's Finest)
by Lauren Layne
I really enjoyed this.
My tour review and feature will post 
on November 25 for Forever Romance.
IN HOT PURSUIT
Being a cop might be in Anthony Moretti's blood, but protecting and serving the city of New York has always been more than just the family business. If that means his love life stays locked up, well then that's just another sacrifice made in the line of duty. That is, until he sets eyes on the gorgeous new waitress at The Darby Diner and suddenly Anthony's morning coffee is leaving him a whole lot more hot and bothered than usual.
Though waitressing at The Darby isn't exactly Maggie Walker's dream job, it pays the bills and gives her time to work on her novel. Now if only she could stop fantasizing about gorgeous Anthony Moretti every time he sits down at her table, she'd really be in great shape. But when he needs her help identifying a criminal threatening The Darby-and Maggie recognizes her ex-husband-she fears her fresh start might be a pipe dream. Faster than a New York minute, Maggie and Anthony find themselves in one perilous pursuit that only gets hotter with each and every rule-breaking kiss.



3. Audio/MP3


Special Talents: Goon Squad, Vol. 1
Written by: Jonathan L. Howard
Narrated by: Gabrielle de Cuir
This looked/sounded fun and it was!
I will post a review this coming week.
I received this title through Audiobook Jukebox.
Publisher's Summary
An ongoing, episodic "prose comic" from which the pictures are summoned by the magic of words, Goon Squad is set in a version of modern-day Manchester. Its biggest divergence from the real city is that it - along with most other large urban centers - has a team of superheroes to protect it against unusual threats with which the conventional forces of law and order would have problems.
Goon Squad, Volume 1: Special Talents is composed of six tales: "The New Girl", "Nightclubbing", "By the Water, by the Grave", "Changes", "No-No Dojo", and "Exterminating Angel" as well as an introduction read by the author.
©2015 Jonathan L. Howard (P)2015 Blackstone Audio, Inc., and Skyboat Media, Inc.







Currently reading:
1. eBook/Kindle


Joy to the Worlds: Mysterious Speculative Fiction for the Holidays
by Maia Chance , Janine A. Southard, Raven Oak,G. Clemans
I am two books into this collection and enjoying it.
Click on book title for full description.



2. Audible/MP3


Omega Rising: Omega Force, Book 1
Written by: Joshua Dalzelle
Narrated by: Paul Heitsch
This is another Sci FI that I chose
and received through Audiobook Jukebox.
I just got it today so I have to add it to my player and will start tonight.
Publisher's Summary
Jason Burke was a man hiding from himself in a small cabin high in the American Rocky Mountains when his simple, quiet life was shattered one night by what he first assumed was an aviation mishap. But when he investigates the crash, what he finds will yank him out of his self-imposed exile and thrust him into a world he could have never imagined. He suddenly finds himself trapped on a damaged alien spacecraft and plunged into a universe of interstellar crime lords and government conspiracies, along the way meeting strange new friends… and enemies. As he struggles to find his way back home he is inexorably drawn deeper into a world where one misstep could mean his death. Or worse. He desperately wants to get back to Earth, but it may be the end for him...or is it just the beginning?
©2013, 2014 Joshua Dalzelle (P)2014 Joshua Dalzelle



3. ebook/Kindle


Sheltering Hearts (Virgin River Book 11)
by Robyn Carr
This is Book 9 for my TBR Pile Challenge (three more after this one).
This is a free novella which has been on my Kindle shelf since 2010.
New York Times bestselling author Robyn Carr takes readers back to her beloved Virgin River country in this heartwarming tribute to Rhonda Clemons, founder of Zoë Institute and a winner of a Harlequin More Than Words award.
By discovering a seed of compassion and nurturing it to effect real change, the dedicated women selected as Harlequin More Than Words award recipients make our world a better place. To celebrate their accomplishments, bestselling authors have honored the winners by writing short stories inspired by their lives and work.
This special eBook is yours at no charge because Harlequin is committed to celebrating women’s efforts and supporting the causes that are meaningful to them. By sharing Rhonda Clemons's story, we hope to turn awareness into action and mobilize others to make a difference.
To find out more or to nominate a woman you know, please visit www.HarlequinMoreThanWords.com.



4. eBook/Kindle


The 12 Brides of Christmas Collection: 12 Heartwarming 
Historical Romances for the Season of Love
by Mary Connealy (Author), Diana Lesire Brandmeyer (Author), Margaret Brownley (Author), & 9 more
I am looking forward to enjoying these stories.
This is (may be) my last NetGalley title for the year. 
Christmas is the time for love—and weddings—and twelve historical women are on their way to the altar, whether they know it or not. In Nineteenth Century settings across the heartland of America, readers will experience heartfelt gifts, old-fashioned Christmas traditions, sweet romance, and inspiring faith from twelve acclaimed Christian authors, including Mary Connealy, Margaret Brownley, Pam Hillman, Maureen Lang, Michele Ule, Amy Lillard, Miralee Ferrell, Susan Page Davis, Diana Lesire Brandmeyer, Amanda Cabot, Davalynn Spencer, and Vickie McDonough.



October 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 one plus two new so I remain at three although. again, I hope to post four reviews this coming week. I finished one NetGalley selection and added the last one on my shelf.  There is one other but it has to be read on the computer so I'm not sure if I will get to it so I haven't been counting it.
I have read 8 of my 12 TBR Pile books and added one of the last four this week. The others are full novels so I will have to read one a week after the Netgalley reading is complete. 


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 two audio review titles from Audiobook Jukebox.
I purchased four $.99 kindle titles.
And of course I added more free kindle titles to my library.

Are your mailbox and TBR piles blooming?

Review Titles
I received two titles through Audiobook Jukebox:

Special Talents: Goon Squad, Vol. 1
Written by: Jonathan L. Howard
Narrated by: Gabrielle de Cuir
This looked/sounded fun and it was!
See the description above under Finished reading.

and
Omega Rising: Omega Force, Book 1
Written by: Joshua Dalzelle
Narrated by: Paul Heitsch
This is another Sci FI that I chose.
See full description under Currently Reading above.


Won

NONE

Purchased
I am starting to plan for 2016 Challenges so I am picking books and authors I know I want to read.
I picked up four titles for $.99 each.


My Reckless Heart
(The Thorne Brothers Trilogy, Book 2)
Jo Goodman
I have book 1 and decided to get book 2 while on sale.



(The Reunited Hearts Series Collection (3 Book Series))
Vicki Hinze
I enjoy this author and this set of military and inspirational romances sounds good. 


I finished book 1 last month and decided to pick up these two while they are on sale.


Immune (A Rylee Adamson Novel, Book 2)
Shannon Mayer



Free

Over the past week I added 55 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.
at 14 comments: