Sunday Post January 31, 2016/It's Monday! What are You Reading? Plus Mailbox Monday February 1, 2016

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 didn't travel too much this week after all but the week was busy with closings and appointments.
Reading was good although I only finished two 2 ebooks, (plus 12 hours of audio). I posted four reviews. I also posted the usual memes.

I enjoyed visiting early again last week.
Thanks as always to all the nice people who visit me.

These were last week's posts:

• Sunday Post January 24, 2016/It's Monday! What are You Reading? Plus Mailbox Monday January 25, 2016.

• Book Review: Extreme Honor (True Heroes) by Piper J. Drake; Romantic Suspense; my rating 4.5.

• Book Review: Brilliance (The Brilliance Trilogy Book 1) by Marcus Sakey; Sci Fi, Suspense Thriller; my rating 5.0.

• Martha's Bookshelf***Friday Pick Giveaway January 29, 2016. Open Worldwide. Ends 2/4/2016.

• Audible Book Review: To Live Forever by Jack Vance; Vintage Sci Fi; my rating 4.0.

• Book Review: Steamborn (Steamborn Series) (Volume 1) by Eric R Asher; Sci Fi, Fantasy, Steampunk; my rating 4.25.

• Sharing Beyond Books #238 Comment Giveaway January 30, 2015; Open Worldwide. Ends 1/30/16.

• Sunday Words of Encouragement January 31, 2016.

Finished Reading:
1. eBook/Kindle

Extreme Honor (True Heroes)
by Piper J. Drake
This is good romantic suspense.
My review is linked above.
Click on book title for full description.

2. eBook/Kindle (NG)

Steamborn (Steamborn Series) (Volume 1)
by Eric R Asher
I enjoyed this Steampunk adventure.
My review is linked above. 
Click on book title for full description.

Currently reading:
1. Audible/ MP3

The Moon Is a Harsh Mistress
Written by: Robert A. Heinlein
Narrated by: Lloyd James
I am really enjoying this vintage sci fi. 
Only two hours left so I should finish this on Monday.
Click on book title for full description.

2. eBook/Kindle (LBC)

Mistletoe Memories: Four Generations Transform a House Into a Home for Christmas (Romancing America)
by Jennifer AlLee, Carla Olson Gade, Lisa Karon Richardson,
and Gina Welborn
I almost forgot I had one more Christmas book that we are reading for Ladies' Book Club which meets this Saturday, 2/6/16.
I have read two stories and they are charming. :-)
Spend a heartfelt Christmas on Schooley’s Mountain as four generations make a house a home. Carpenter Stephan Yost vows to build a precocious spinster a home by Christmas. Civil War widow Mary Ann Plum learns the greatest peace on earth comes from giving and receiving love. Olympia Paris must protect the orphanage she grew up in from a man intending to play Father Christmas to most of the town. Joy Benucci turns to a modern-day Scrooge to save a transitional home for foster kids. Will Christmas be a season of miracles in their lives?

3. Print (LBC)

Two From Galilee: The Story Of Mary And Joseph
by Marjorie Holmes
This is a second book Ladies Book Club is reading for Saturday.
Here from Marjorie Holines, one of the most beloved authors of our day, is the extraordinary bestselling novel that tells the story of Mary and Joseph as it has never been told before--the greatest love story of all.

This is the story of two real people whose lives were touched by God: two people chosen by God to provide an earthly home for His Son. Here are Mary and Joseph-a teenage girl and a young carpenter-alone, frightened, in love, faced with family conflict, a hostile world and an awesome responsibility. It is a story for young and old alike; for everyone who finds the Christmas tale a source of timeless beauty and wonder, a compassionate, emotional novel of divine love.

4. Audible/MP3 (ABJ)

Singular
Written by: David F. Porteous
Narrated by: David F. Porteous
This caught my eye
(especially while listening to The Moon is a Harsh Mistress.)
I received this from the publisher through Audiobook Jukebox.
Publisher's Summary
In Singularity - the network that promises immortality to the rich - a creature is awakening. New virtual life is being created and is struggling to become free. But the growing power of this prisoner, this virtual god, threatens to destroy the world of the living.
Only a handful of people even know the creature exists. They need each other if they're to survive. But can they trust each other? And can they trust themselves when even life and death are no longer certain?
Dive into a nearly possible future where the real and the virtual overlap, and follow Patrick Clark into Singularity in this dark, comic thriller.
©2011 David F Porteous (P)2015 David F Porteous

January 31, 2016- up to date.
Reading The One Year Bible again along with my husband and others from our church.
I will also be listening (sometimes) to the companion commentary online.

I posted four reviews last week trying to squeeze in Sci Fi Experience.  I only have one book to start for review this week - I will have to finish the others to get more reviews posted.
My five titles on my NetGalley shelves increased to nine. 

There will be some new eTreasure's books listed at NetGalley this week - I'll post the links next weekend.

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 four titles at NetGalley and 3 audio review books!
TBR Triple Dog Dare update: I have resisted purchases now for 31 days with the exception of using my two January Audible credits.
I added more free kindle titles to my library.

Are your mailbox and TBR piles blooming?

Review Titles

These four titles came through NetGalley:

Written in Fire
by Marcus Sakey
Thomas & Mercer (Rel 1/12/16)
I want to continue this exciting trilogy.
I think I had book 2 and 3 confused. I hope I can get book 2 also --
or I will have to buy it before the end of TBR Triple Dog Dare to read as this one archives soon. :-(.

The God's Eye View
by Barry Eisler
Thomas & Mercer (Rel 2/2/16)

This looks like a good political thriller.

Dear Emma

by Katie Heaney
Grand Central Publishing (Rel 3/1/16)

This is a coming of age (college) story.

Admiral (An Evagardian Novel)
by Sean Danker
Penguin Group (Rel May 3, 2016)
This is a 'first contact' sci fi.



I received these two audiobooks from the publishers through Audiobook Jukebox.

Singular
by David F. Porteous
Sci Fi Fantasy - Virtual life trying to break free.
See more details in currently reading above.

The Last Drop: The Last Drop, Book 1

by Andrea Perno
Sci Fi/Fantasy - Teen and brother leaving earth to find/fight over water resources.

This audiobook came from the Author through Audiobook Blast


Star Crusader: Hero of the Alliance
by Michael G. Thomas
Another sci fi - sounds a little like The Last Starfighter. :-)

Won

NONE

Purchased

These were my selections for my January Subscription credits at Audible:


Agenda 21: Into the Shadows 
by Glenn Beck
Sci Fi - I listened to book 1 a few years back so I am looking forward to this sequel



Enforcing Home: The Survivalist Series, Book 6
by A. American
I discovered book 6 was released (1/19/16) in this series that I like.

Free

Over the past week I added 46 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 January 31, 2016

We welcomed home the Band of Brothers men from their Haiti mission trip. Our Sunday School teacher shared pictures and three of the men shared some of their experiences. The work being done by God is AWESOME!

Pastor’s message was titled: Speak Out!
He noted that Jesus always spoke in parables or took action to show His points. In the Pastor started with the parable of the Fig Tree in Mark 11:12-23. Jesus saw the fig tree that appeared leafy and lush green. But when he went to pick fruit there was none so he rebuked the tree and then it withered. (A separate message notes that the fruitless tree represents Israel – the appearance of religion but no fruit.) (As long as you have breath, you can bear fruit.)

Jesus spoke to the tree. (I am also mindful that Jesus spoke to the waves and they quieted.) Even nature responds to God’s words. His word is like fire or a hammer breaking rocks. Jeremiah 23:29
Jesus speaks with power and when we believe we too can speak from belief and faith.
2 Corinthians 4:13 (NIV) It is written: “I believed; therefore I have spoken.” Since we have that same spirit of faith, we also believe and therefore speak,…

There is no power without God's word. Go to God and give thanks for all He provides.
Isaiah 55:10-11. When we speak Gods healing, we speak His power. Psalm 107:20. We need to be clear and direct our words/prayer so it does not go to all but to the specific. (Jesus called to Lazurus not all the dead, John 11:43-44.)

We must believe it – visualize and see it. Therefore I tell you, whatever you ask for in prayer, believe that you have received it, and it will be yours. Mark 11:24.

God calls things that are not as though they were! Romans 4:17. (This message was confirmation as I had been thinking this phrase through our worship time!)
Who do you think you are? A Child of God? An heir of eternal life? Then show it through your belief and faith. Speak out - it's your miracle!

Although I found another good song (which I will save for another time)

I choose this strong song: Move Mountain!

Verses For Today:
Isaiah 55:10-11 (NIV)
10
As the rain and the snow
come down from heaven,
and do not return to it
without watering the earth
and making it bud and flourish,
so that it yields seed for the sower and bread for the eater,
11
so is my word that goes out from my mouth:
It will not return to me empty,
but will accomplish what I desire
and achieve the purpose for which I sent it.

I am thankful for the power of God’s Word and thankful that I was called (chosen) and given faith to believe! I will continue to trust God's reality over my own.

Sharing Beyond Books #238 January 30, 2016

Hello again and Welcome to Sharing Beyond Books, SBB!
I've had another busy, but good week. The weather is a little warmer for a few days.

Thanks to everyone who commented last week.

Most of the commenters agree that warnings on books would be good. Miki and Poetryinleaves noted that such warnings are not available for print books. Marjorie and Fredamans suggest ratings similar to movie ratings.

~~~~~

The Winner from SBB #237 comments is: #5 Natalija 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 WINNER FORM.

WEEK #238

(One Question.)

My question this week: 1) Do you name your devises-- like Katrina your Kindle or Matilda the MP3??

I have never named my reading devices although I do call our GPS "Gertrude". :-)

The image is funny (and so is the article).

Image found at Matt Soria.

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.
January Questions were provided by: Poetryinleaves, Becky, Rosebud and bn100. Random.org choose #1 so Poetryinleaves gets to pick a book.

Your turn to share:
My question this week: 1) Do you name your devises-- like Katrina your Kindle or Matilda the MP3??

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 February 6, 2015 at 5 PM central.

Book Review: Steamborn (Steamborn Series) (Volume 1) by Eric R Asher

This is an easy reading and engaging steampunk adventure.

Steamborn (Steamborn Series) (Volume 1)

by Eric R Asher

File Size: 677 KB
Print Length: 239 pages
Publication Date: November 29, 2015
ASIN: B018RK2RC8

Genre: Sci Fi, Fantasy, Steampunk

My Rating: 4.25 of 5.0

Jacob, a tinker's apprentice and sometime thief, has lived his entire life in the mountain city of Ancora, protected by the city walls. These towering barriers keep the Deadlands creatures at bay, but the monsters move higher into the peaks every year. More and more, they breach the defenses of the Lowlands while the Highlands rest easy. A swarm overruns the walls and wreaks utter devastation on the Lowlands. Charles, the old tinker, suspects the attack may not be natural. With help from Jacob's closest friend, Alice, and Samuel, one of the city's elite spider knights, Jacob and Charles will uncover a terrible darkness at the heart of their city.

Review:
Jacob, at fifteen, is a talented tinker’s apprentice with a caring heart. He doesn’t like to steal but he does what is needed to help get medicine for his father. He and his family live in the Lowlands of Ancora and are looked down on by the wealthier families in the Highlands. The city walls were built to keep the Deadlands creatures out but the poisonous spiders and killing bugs keep encroaching. Now a frenzied swarm has destroyed most of the outer walls forcing the Lowlanders who survive to move into the Highlands. Some provide shelter and help while others pay fines rather than help the Lowlanders. Jacob’s mentor, the respected tinker, Charles, suspects that the attack was arranged.

Jacob and his friend, Alice, are exploring the old train lines and catacombs beneath the city when they hear the secret plans of a powerful conspiracy. These men want to force the Lowlanders back to their ruined and defenseless homes. Jacob and Alice have become targets to be captured and punished, if not eliminated, with the help, or coercion, of the Ancora guards, the elite Spider Knights. Charles has prepared for escape but Jacob and Alice will have to leave their families behind. They are joined by Samuel, a friend from the Spider Knights. The four set off to seek old allies in the Deadlands, with troops close behind and giant monsters in front.

When I started the book I thought it was perhaps written for middle schoolers or teens as the writing style is easy. However, as I continued I became engaged by the characters and the unique creatures. Although the wild spiders and bugs are dangerous, some of the spiders are trained as carriage ‘cattle’ or rides for the knights, and smaller bugs are raised as pets. I enjoyed watching Jacob as he helps others and begins to mature. He has a sweet friendship with Alice and wonderful teachers in Charles and Samuel. I was impressed as the world expanded beyond Ancora and I also liked the mechanical and steampunk elements of the story.

This first book has a satisfactory ending, leaving the team ready to begin another leg of their journey with new friends and new dangers. I recommend this to readers who enjoy active and creative steampunk fantasy. I hope to continue the adventure with book two and I may check out some of the other titles by Mr. Asher.

I received this title through NetGalley for an honest review. It qualifies for NetGalley Challenge, “S” in Alphabet Soup Challenge, part of TBR Triple Dog Dare and Sci Fi Experience.

Audible Book Review: To Live Forever by Jack Vance

This presents an interesting character study in a futuristic society.
To Live Forever 
Written by: Jack Vance
Narrated by: Kevin Kenerly

Length: 7 hrs and 49 mins
Unabridged Audiobook
Release Date: 08-25-15
Publisher: Blackstone Audio, Inc
Genre: Vintage Sci Fi, Fantasy
My Rating: 4.0 of 5.0

Publisher's Summary
Waylock had been granted eternal life - but now he was killing on borrowed time.
Gavin Waylock had waited seven years for the scandal surrounding his former immortal self to be forgotten and had kept his identity concealed so that he could once again join the ranks of those who lived forever. He had been exceedingly careful about hiding his past. Then he met the Jacynth. She was a beautiful 19-year-old, and Gavin wanted her. But he recognized that a wisdom far beyond her years marked her as one who knew too much about him to live. As far as she was concerned, death was a mere inconvenience. But once the Jacynth came back, Gavin Waylock's life would be an everlasting hell.
©2015 Blackstone Audio, Inc. (P)2015 Blackstone Audiobooks

Review:
Waylock is a man living in a society where levels of achievement determine the number of years a person lives. Men strive to increase their “sloop” through innovation, great study, artistic talent or remarkable work achievement. When a person reaches the top elite level, they are inducted into the Amaranth where they are granted eternal life. To accomplish this eternal life, they have ‘clones’ or replicas who are matured over seven years.  The clones have the DNA coding and memories of their primary so it is as if they continue on for eternity.

The governing authorities do their best to maintain smooth operations with strict and swift enforcement, including humiliation and execution. But problems are beginning to be exposed in the calm society. It is difficult for the lower working levels to gain sloop and rise to Amaranth. Not only that but, to keep balance for the resources, for each Amaranth that is inducted, 1700 lowest levels must be removed from the city rolls. This causes depression or mental illness in some who can’t accept that they can’t get beyond the middle level.

Waylock was an immortal sentenced to death for killing another immortal. He is believed to have been eliminated as his replicates should not have had time to mature. However, he lives quietly in hiding for seven years hoping that his past deed will be forgotten and he will be able to work his way back to Amaranth. Then he meets a beautiful young woman, Jacynth. He is drawn to her until he suspects that somehow she knows his secrets. Waylock will take extreme measures to protect himself.

The second time Waylock meets the Jacynth he is again attracted but wary. He soon learns that she is now an investigator for the enforcers and she is determined to bring “the monster” to justice. They begin a cat and mouse dance trying to best each other. Waylock's ambitions drive him to use methods that may destroy the very foundations of the society in which he seeks to advance.

This story portrays an interesting, if sometimes depressing, future world. The story is built around a somewhat evil protagonist and the author develops the character with cleverness and perseverance. I didn’t like Waylock but he makes for an interesting character study. The story includes a dissertation on mental illness and political commentary woven in between the scheming mystery. I was once again struck by the irony in the ending which is a feature I have found in the vintage sci fi stories I have been reading. It seems to be a theme tied to the imaginative futuristic view of life. I recommend this to readers who like crime novels as well as those who like futuristic society sci fi.

Audio Notes: Kevin Kenerly delivers a solid narration that fits the tone of the story. Kenerly provided good character voices and an appropriately dry presence that added to the mystery. It is not flashy or exuberant but the accent added to the engagement for me.

Originally published in 1956, this is one of my books for Vintage Sci Fi month. This is from my own Audible library. It qualifies for Audio Challenge, “T” in Alphabet Soup and TBR Triple Dog Dare.

Martha's Bookshelf***Friday Pick Giveaway January 29, 2016

Happy Friday.
This week has been less crazy at the office but I've had a lot of interruptions which slows my normal work.
Weather was a bit warmer but when it is damp it is an ugly chill cold. We've been using our log supply regularly. I continue saying prayers for so many facing strange and hazardous weather.
[Thanks for continued prayers (for my nephew). Still no word yet so we stay in pray as they seek a second opinion.]

I have posted a new set of books. :-)

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 winners to announce Friday mornings with the next Pick post.

Thank you to all who entered the January 22 Pick. There was one automatic win again this week.  Automatic wins are those who requested the book four times without other people asking for that book during those weeks. There were two blocked title(s).
AUTO: 
Di gets You Don't Know Jack

CONGRATULATIONS
to Random.org picked Winners from January 22 Pick:
Janhvi gets a GC

bn100 gets Touch Me

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 like this ladder bookshelf. How about you?

Image found at Just Decorate.

New Book Goup #63 January 22, 2016
(I have the picture and will try to get the list up before I crash. Sorry no links right now.)

PAIRS:
Victoria Alexander: The Pursuit of Marriage (slight creasing) and When We Meet Again
Shannon Drake: Reckless and When we Touch
James Patterson: Black Friday and Hide and Seek (both have spine creasing)
SINGLES:
Presidential Antidotes by Paul F. Boller, Jr.
Undercurrents by Stella Cameron
Lead Me On by Victoria Dahl
Warrior Ascended by Addison Fox
Parallel Attraction by Deidre Knight
Moving Target by Cheyenne McCray
Wayward Winds by Michael Phillips - Audio Tapes
Walking After Moonlight by Karen Robards
Forgotten Promises by Denise Skelton
A Walk to Remember by Nicolas Sparks - hardback

New Book Group #62 November 6, 2015

Touch Me by Beverly Rae (personally autographed)


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
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:
Servant, 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 -- All Gone

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 920+ 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!

Book Review: Brilliance (The Brilliance Trilogy Book 1) by Marcus Sakey

This is a well written sci fi thriller with social parallels and lots of suspense.

Brilliance (The Brilliance Trilogy Book 1)
by Marcus Sakey

File Size: 4301 KB
Print Length: 453 pages
Publisher: Thomas & Mercer (July 16, 2013)
ASIN: B00AESRRQS
Genre: Suspense Thriller, Sci Fi
My Rating: 5.0 of 5.0

In Wyoming, a little girl reads people’s darkest secrets by the way they fold their arms. In New York, a man sensing patterns in the stock market racks up $300 billion. In Chicago, a woman can go invisible by being where no one is looking. They’re called “brilliants,” and since 1980, one percent of people have been born this way. Nick Cooper is among them; a federal agent, Cooper has gifts rendering him exceptional at hunting terrorists. His latest target may be the most dangerous man alive, a brilliant drenched in blood and intent on provoking civil war. But to catch him, Cooper will have to violate everything he believes in—and betray his own kind.
From Marcus Sakey, “a modern master of suspense” (Chicago Sun-Times) and “one of our best storytellers” (Michael Connelly), comes an adventure that’s at once breakneck thriller and shrewd social commentary; a gripping tale of a world fundamentally different and yet horrifyingly similar to our own, where being born gifted can be a terrible curse.
A 2013 Edgar Award Nominee
“The kind of story you’ve never read before.” —Lee Child, New York Times bestselling author of the Jack Reacher Series
“Ridiculously good. I love this story so much.” —Gillian Flynn, New York Times bestselling author of Gone Girl
Nominated for the Edgar, Lovey, Sideways, and Prometheus awards.

Review:
Nick Cooper is a federal agent in a special division (Department of Analysis and Response, Equitable Services) whose job is to hunt down “Brilliants” deemed to be terrorists. “Brilliants” are humans gifted with extraordinary skills. The skills may be reading the emotions of others, being able to move with great speed or stealth, being able to instantly see patterns in movement or numbers, and other “extra” skills that help the Brilliants excel beyond the normal humans. Although the Brilliants, aka “abnorms”, make up only a small portion of the population their high level of achievement frighten the normal people causing authorities to seek ways to control the Brilliants.

Cooper is extremely successful as a DAR agent since he himself is a one of those Brilliants. The team has a particular target terrorist, John Smith, who has evaded them for years. Smith is accused of a massacre of a Senator and 70+ other innocent civilians. He is also suspected of planning an upcoming bombing. As Cooper gets closer to the target, he begins to learn facts about the treatment of gifted children who are tested at age 8 and removed from their homes to be raised in academies. Cooper has cause for concern when the testing issue impacts his own family.

When Cooper runs into blocks trying to get Smith, he decides to go undercover to try to infiltrate Smith’s organization. Cooper collides with Shannon who is suspected to be one of Smith’s top operatives. Their joint escape from attacking DAR agents leads to a prime opportunity to get close to Smith. The people Cooper meets and the facts he uncovers will change his world.

The writing is crisp which fits the intensity of the talents of the Brilliants. I really enjoyed the creative observational details shared as part of Cooper’s skills. Cooper’s character is well developed, including building the relationship with his ex-wife and children. There are interesting pieces of news articles or songs that begin or end chapters and help to create an atmosphere of racial tension in this alternate society. The author uses this as one parallel with our real-life conflicts and conspiracies.

This is a good page-turner with twists and (suspected but still) surprises. There is just a touch of sexual grittiness but not enough to mar the overall engaging and remarkable effect of the work. The sci-fi element is an alternate society world and should not deter the interest of those who love a well crafted, fast paced thriller. I highly recommend this and I look forward to continuing in the series!

I received this through NetGalley. This is a contemporary Sci Fi for Sci Fi Experience. It qualifies for my NetGalley challenge, “B” for Alphabet Soup Challenge and TBR Triple Dog Dare.

Book Review: Extreme Honor (True Heroes) by Piper J. Drake

This has strong characters and a great blend of suspense, story and romance.
Extreme Honor (True Heroes)
by Piper J. Drake

• File Size: 848 KB
• Print Length: 336 pages
• Publisher: Forever (January 26, 2016)
• Sold by: Hachette Book Group
• ASIN: B00X47ZLZU

Genre: Romantic Suspense
My Rating: 4.5 of 5.0

HONOR, LOYALTY, LOVE
David Cruz is good at two things: war and training dogs. The ex-soldier's toughest case is Atlas, a Belgian Malinois whose handler died in combat. Nobody at Hope's Crossing kennel can break through the animal's grief. That is, until dog whisperer Evelyn Jones walks into the facility . . . and into Atlas's heart. David hates to admit that the curvy blonde's mesmerizing effect isn't limited to canines. But when Lyn's work with Atlas puts her in danger, David will do anything to protect her.
Lyn realizes that David's own battle scars make him uniquely qualified for his job as a trainer. Tough as nails yet gentle when it counts, he's gotten closer to Atlas than anyone else-and he's willing to put his hard-wired suspicion aside to let her do the same. But someone desperate enough to kill doesn't want Lyn working with Atlas. Now only teamwork, trust, and courage can save two troubled hearts and the dog who loves them both . . .

Review:
Lyn is a civilian dog trainer. She loves dogs and relates to them – usually better than to their human handlers or owners. She has developed her own business even through the discouragement from her military stepfather who has never really given her approval or loving support. They are always at odds yet he helped her get her latest contract to work with Atlas, a a Belgian Malinois military dog who lost his handler and is struggling to show interest in life. Lyn is determined to help Atlas but first she has to get past his current trainer, former military soldier, David Cruz.

Although Lyn’s initial approach to Cruz doesn’t work, the fact that Atlas responds to her does. Cruz slowly begins to gain respect for the pretty trainer as he sees progress in Atlas’ attitude. Cruz isn't sure of Lynn's motives and plans to challenge her. When he shows up at her hotel to find her under attack his attitude quickly shifts to protective mode.

Another attack at the kennel grounds makes it clear that someone is interested in keeping Lyn from working with Atlas. It appears that Atlas may be carrying secrets that someone is willing to kill to keep hidden. Now Cruz is even more determined to discover the secrets that surround Atlas.

I immediately liked the tone of this story. Lyn is a great character as a independent, smart professional who is vulnerable yet pushes back when under attack or trauma. David is a very honorable man who is willing to listen, provide truths and is reluctant to take advantage of a traumatized woman. There is lovely conflict and tension that builds to danger and suspense, and gentle, but clear attraction that builds to strong romantic love making that is sexy but not overdone. Atlas is a dog with personality that has to be drawn out and I enjoyed the addition of the dog training details, including the introduction of other handlers and dogs.

The story is told in third person with the point of view shifting between Lyn and Cruz. This gives good balance and good character depth. There is some background done through a form of “telling”, talking to the dog, but it worked for me and I had no problem with the presentation. The writing flows easily and I finished this in two days. I carried it around with me and read every chance I got as it was a book I didn’t want to put down.

This is the first time I have read this author but I am sure it will not be the last. I recommend this to readers who enjoy good romantic suspense – heavy on the story and suspense with a strong romance that doesn’t overtake the storyline.

I received this through NetGalley. It qualifies for my NetGalley Challenge, E on Alphabet Soup and TBR Triple Dog Dare.

Piper J. Drake (or "PJ") spent her childhood pretending to study for the SATs by reading every interesting novel she could borrow from the local and school libraries. She was introduced to the wonderful world of romance by her best friend and dove into the genre.

PJ began her writing career as "PJ Schnyder" writing sci-fi & paranormal romance and steampunk. She has recently received the FF&P PRISM award for her work as well as the NJRW Golden Leaf award and Parsec award.

Now, PJ is exploring the complexity of romantic suspense, incorporating her interests in mixed martial arts and the military into her writing.

 Connect with Piper at: Website | Facebook | Twitter |GoodReads | Amazon

Sunday Post January 24, 2016/It's Monday! What are You Reading? Plus Mailbox Monday January 25, 2016

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 has been a busy week with some travel and more to come this coming week.  We've been busy using wood in the fireplace. :-)
Reading was good although I only finished two books, 1 ebook and 1 audio. I posted four reviews, one with Giveaway (and another with a giveaway link). I also posted the usual memes.

I enjoyed visiting early in the week - it is interesting to share in the blog world.
Thanks as always to all the nice people who visit me.

These were last week's posts:

• Sunday Post January 17, 2016/It's Monday! What are You Reading? Plus Mailbox Monday January 18, 2016.

• Winners November and December 2015.

• Audible Book Review and #Giveaway: Time Heist: Firstborn Saga Volume 1 by #Anthony Vicino. Sci Fi, Mystery; my rating 4.5.

• Audio Book Review: Buster: The Military Dog Who Saved a Thousand Lives by Will Barrow, Isabel George. Personal Memoir; my rating 4.25.

• Martha's Bookshelf***Friday Pick Giveaway January 22, 2016. Open Worldwide. Ends 1/28/2016.

• Audible Book Review: The Very First D**ned Thing: An Author-Read Audio Exclusive by Jodi Taylor; Fantasy; my rating 4.5.

• Book Review: Night Study (Study Series) by Maria V. Snyder ; Paranormal, Fantasy; my rating 5.0.

• Sharing Beyond Books #237 Comment January 23, 2015; Open Worldwide. Ends 1/30/16.

• Sunday Words of Encouragement January 24, 2016.

Finished Reading:

1. eBook/Kindle (NG)

Brilliance (The Brilliance Trilogy Book 1)
by Marcus Sakey
Lots of suspense -- Very well done!
I'll post a review this week.

Click on book title for full description.




2. Audible/MP3

To Live Forever
Written by: Jack Vance
Narrated by: Kevin Kenerly
Interesting story with a monstrous, human villain and the irony I keep finding in vintage sci fi!
Click on book title for full description.

Currently reading:
1. eBook/Kindle

Extreme Honor (True Heroes)
by Piper J. Drake
I am 50% into this and loving it! 
I received this through NetGalley.
I hope to post my review on release day, 1/26/16.
HONOR, LOYALTY, LOVE
David Cruz is good at two things: war and training dogs. The ex-soldier's toughest case is Atlas, a Belgian Malinois whose handler died in combat. Nobody at Hope's Crossing kennel can break through the animal's grief. That is, until dog whisperer Evelyn Jones walks into the facility . . . and into Atlas's heart. David hates to admit that the curvy blonde's mesmerizing effect isn't limited to canines. But when Lyn's work with Atlas puts her in danger, David will do anything to protect her.
Lyn realizes that David's own battle scars make him uniquely qualified for his job as a trainer. Tough as nails yet gentle when it counts, he's gotten closer to Atlas than anyone else-and he's willing to put his hard-wired suspicion aside to let her do the same. But someone desperate enough to kill doesn't want Lyn working with Atlas. Now only teamwork, trust, and courage can save two troubled hearts and the dog who loves them both . . .

2. Audible/ MP3

The Moon Is a Harsh Mistress
Written by: Robert A. Heinlein
Narrated by: Lloyd James
This is another Vintage Sci Fi from 1966. I will start this when I finish To Live Forever. This has been in my Audible Library since 2011 so it is a good TBR listen too.
Click on book title for full description.

3. eBook/Kindle

Steamborn (Steamborn Series) (Volume 1)
by Eric R Asher
I'll try to squeeze in one last Sci Fi before the end of the month.
I received this through NetGalley. 
Jacob, a tinker's apprentice and sometime thief, has lived his entire life in the mountain city of Ancora, protected by the city walls. These towering barriers keep the Deadlands creatures at bay, but the monsters move higher into the peaks every year. More and more, they breach the defenses of the Lowlands while the Highlands rest easy. A swarm overruns the walls and wreaks utter devastation on the Lowlands. Charles, the old tinker, suspects the attack may not be natural. With help from Jacob's closest friend, Alice, and Samuel, one of the city's elite spider knights, Jacob and Charles will uncover a terrible darkness at the heart of their city.

January 3, 2016
We start again "In the Beginning" reading The One Year Bible again along with my husband and others from our church.
I will also be listening (sometimes) to the companion commentary online.

I posted my four reviews last week.  I hope to post at least four reviews this week - trying to get the sci fi titles up. :-)
I have eight titles on my NetGalley shelves and this week will reduce that to five. 

There will be some new eTreasure's books listed at NetGalley this week.

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 won a GC (I forgot to list earlier) and I received a free eBook, plus 6 more, from Red Coat PR.
TBR Triple Dog Dare update: I have resisted purchases now for 24 days with even more temptation this week!
I have two Audible credits I will be using soon but not rushing.
I added more free kindle titles to my library.

Are your mailbox and TBR piles blooming?

Review Titles

No new review titles this week. I still have plenty to read. :-)

Won

I won a $15.00 Amazon GC for quarter four giveaway for the 2015 Netgalley Reading Challenge. Thank you to Ariel at Fictively.com.

Purchased

NONE

Free

I received:

In This Life (Kindle Edition)
by Christine Brae as a gift from the author and Red Coat PR. Thank you.


Plus an extra 6 free titles through their facebook page.

Over the past week I added 50 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.