Audio Book Review: Unseemly Pursuits: The Concordia Wells Mysteries Book 2 by K.B. Owen

This is a fun, engaging, character driven historical mystery series.
Unseemly Pursuits: The Concordia Wells Mysteries Book 2
Written by: K.B. Owen
Narrated by: Becket Royce

Length: 8 hrs and 29 mins
Series: Concordia Wells, Book 2
Unabridged Audiobook
Release Date:10-02-15
Publisher: K.B. Owen Mysteries
Genre: Historical, Mystery
My Rating: 4.5 of 5.0

Publisher's Summary
A deadly secret that won't stay buried....
It is the fall of 1896, and Miss Concordia Wells is hip-deep in the usual tumult of a lady professor's life: classes, clubs, student pranks, and the unending drama generated by the girls she lives with on campus. Complicating this normality is the new Lady Principal, whom the students have nicknamed "the Ogre". The woman seems bent on making Concordia's life miserable.
Events take a grave turn, however, when an ancient Egyptian amulet donated to the college mysteriously disappears, the donor is found murdered, and his daughter - Concordia's best friend - confesses to killing him.
Desperate for answers, Concordia unravels a 20-year-old secret, closely guarded by men now dead. But such secrets can be dangerous for the daughters left behind, including Concordia herself. Can she make sense of the mystery that has bound together their fates, before it's too late?
©2013 K.B. Owen (P)2015 K.B. Owen

Review:
Concordia is back to her normal duties as a lady professor but under a new Lady Principal who has been nicknamed “ogre” by the students. The woman clearly doesn’t like Concordia and takes away long time assignments and gives her secondary positions, such as moving her from director of the student play to assistant under a math teacher who has never had experience directing a performance. The continual insults from the Lady Principal take second place though to a theft of an Egyptian artifact recently donated to the museum. The donor is the father of Concordia’s best friend, Sophia. When he is found murdered the younger daughter is traumatized into silence by finding the bloody body. Not even the Police Detective believes Sophia when she confesses to the crime.

Concordia of course is intent on proving her friend innocent. She soon learns that the dead man had once been a partner of Concordia’s own father when they searched for artifacts in Egypt. Details that Concordia never knew and her mother continues to refuse to discuss. Instead, Concordia’s mother has gotten herself involved with a physic whose séance results in Concordia’s father speaking to her!

The Lady Principal is a character that you like to dislike, causing Concordia to seek help from the Dean and the President of the college. There is plenty of intrigue and multiple suspects as well as surprising twists. I enjoyed the friendship between Concordia and David which is continuing to grow, especially after a misunderstanding is cleared up.

This is the second story in the series and I recommend reading/listening to them in order to better know the supporting characters and the friendships and tensions that exist. I enjoyed this one even more than the first and it makes me want to hear more adventures/misadventures for Concordia. I recommend this to readers who enjoy character driven mystery.

Audio Notes: Becket Royce does another good job narrating this historical mystery. She manages the various voices with clear distinction. The narration enhanced my enjoyment of the story.

I received this audio book from the narrator for an honest review. This qualifies for my Audio Challenge and "U" in Alphabet Soup Challenge.

Book Review: Keepsake for Eagle Cove by M. L. Buchman

If I was an effusive reviewer, which I’m not, I might gush about this one!

Keepsake for Eagle Cove
by M. L. Buchman

File Size: 1613 KB
Print Length: 188 pages
Publisher: Buchman Bookworks, Inc. (August 30, 2016)
ASIN: B01KR8OKQ4
Genre: Small Town, Contemporary Romance
My Rating: 5.0 of 5.0

-an Eagle Cove romance-
In the heart-warming conclusion to the Eagle Cove series:
Tiffany Mills hides a secret about the small Oregon Coast town of Eagle Cove. The line between her past and her present grows blurred. Until, with her life as a recluse threatened, she must defend her beloved homestead in the woods.
Devin Robison wants nothing to do with women, at least for now. He needs a summer as far away from his past as he can get. The opposite of Chicago? A renovation job on a remote Oregon lighthouse keeper’s cottage feels just perfect.
But when their pasts collide and their present unfolds, they both discover the Keepsake for Eagle Cove.

Review:
Tiffany Mills keeps to herself although she has a secret connection to the small town of Eagle Cove. Injuries from her past have made her extremely cautious around people so she has been taking her time becoming a true member of the community. Yet they continue to draw her in, treating her as a friend and accepting her silence until she is ready to share.

Devin has just come to town to found most everyone busy in a double wedding. He has escaped a bad experience in high society Chicago and is ready for some time in a quiet, unpretentious town. What he didn’t expect was to find is a beautiful, shy young woman who has as many talents as she has defenses. He is willing to give Tiffany time to warm to him but he isn’t beyond creating opportunities to spend time with her.

Tiffany begins to open up with Devin as the town folk watch carefully, simultaneously encouraging him while threatening to take him down if he hurts her. The town eccentrics, a Yurt dwelling (complete with goats) and the FlamEagle Festival add natural enchantment to an already delightful romance.

I loved this story from beginning to end. The author provides a warm depth as both main characters grow closer with their quiet strengths, sweet humors and warm chemistry. Other strong, and sometimes quirky, characters add charm to the community that wants to embrace, and protect, Tiffany. There are work and life details that enrich the story and are never boring. The small town dynamics are beautifully portrayed and the whole story is solid, charming romance. I was pleased that it didn’t need any heavy sex to make it appealing. There is fun banter among the town folk and a few gentle love scenes which were just perfect in my opinion.

I have enjoyed Mr. Buchman’s romantic suspense and at least one other small town romance (Where Dreams Are Born). This story clinches for me that his books should be on my automatic buy list. Although this is book 4 in the series it read fine as a stand-alone. I have not looked to see which characters were in the prior books but I am thinking their stories would be just as delightful. Readers who like engaging romance, and don’t need the steamy side, won’t want to miss this story.

I am thankful to have received this title from the publisher for an honest review. Release date 8/30.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
M. L. Buchman has over 50 novels and 30 short stories in print. His romantic suspense books have been named Barnes & Noble and NPR “Top 5 of the year” and twice Booklist “Top 10 of the Year,” placing two titles on their “Top 101 Romances of the Last 10 Years” list. He has been nominated for the Reviewer’s Choice Award for “Top 10 Romantic Suspense of the Year” by RT Book Reviews and was a 2016 RWA RITA finalist. In addition to romance, he also writes thrillers, fantasy, and science fiction.

In among his career as a corporate project manager he has: rebuilt and single-handed a fifty-foot sailboat, both flown and jumped out of airplanes, designed and built two houses, and bicycled solo around the world.

He is now making his living as a full-time writer on the Oregon Coast with his beloved wife and is constantly amazed at what you can do with a degree in Geophysics. You may keep up with his writing and receive exclusive content by subscribing to his newsletter at www.mlbuchman.com.

Sunday Post August 28 2016/It's Monday! What are You Reading? Plus Mailbox Monday August 29, 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 returned home on Wednesday night and the good news is that the twins are fine. The not good news is due to continued dizziness my husband had a sonogram done Thursday. They found that he has an aorta aneurysm in his abdomen. A CAT scan was done Thursday afternoon to confirm and to get measurements. They had to order the stint that is specially made to size. We are hoping the surgery will be as soon as possible this week as he is on low activity until the stint is put in.

My reading/listening was good with return plane time to make up for little time while playing with our granddaughter. I finished three books: one audio and two ebooks. I posted two reviews and did get in this week's usual memes.

I didn't get to visit at all this past week. I hope to get visiting this Monday.
Thanks as always to all the nice people who visit me.

These were last week's posts:

• Sunday Post August 21 2016/It's Monday! What are You Reading? Plus Mailbox Monday August 22, 2016.

• Sharing Beyond Books #266 Comment Giveaway August 23, 2016 (for 8/20). Open Worldwide. Ending 8/27/2016.

• Audio Book Review: Deceitful Moon: Manny Williams Series, Book 2 by Rick Murcer; Forensic Mystery Thriller; my rating 4.5.

• Martha's Bookshelf***Friday Pick Giveaway August 26, 2016. Open Worldwide. Ending 9/1/2016.

• Book Review: Quiet As They Come by Angie Chau; Asian American, Fiction; my rating 4.5.

• Sharing Beyond Books #267 Comment Giveaway August 27, 2016. Open Worldwide. Ending 9/3/2016.

• Sunday Words of Encouragement August 28, 2016.

Finished Reading:
1. eBook/Kindle (Author)

Second Chances - A "Chosen" Short Story
by Jeff Altabef and Erynn Altabef
This short story is an intro to the series.
Click on book title for full description.

2. Audible/MP3 (Narrator)

Apocalypse Machine
Written by: Jeremy Robinson
Narrated by: Jeffrey Kafer
I enjoyed this engaging story.
I received this audio title from the narrator through AudioBook Boom.
Click on book title for full description.

3. eBook/Kindle

Keepsake for Eagle Cove
by M. L. Buchman
I loved this! 
Releases 8/30 and I will post my review then.  
Click on book title for full description.

Currently reading:

1. Audible/MP3 (Narrator)

Tarah Woodblade: The Bowl of Souls Book 6
Written by: Trevor H. Cooley
Narrated by: Andrew Tell
I am midway and enjoying this good fantasy with magic, dwarves, gnomes, and an assortment of creatures.
I received this audio title from the narrator through AudioBook Boom.
Publisher's Summary
The war is over, but there is a void of power that must be filled and no shortage of souls eager to fill it.
Tarah Woodblade was the best guide and tracker in the land, but she ran away from the war. She returns to Dremaldria expecting to be labeled a coward, but finds herself lauded as a hero. It seems a hero is needed too, because someone is hunting rogue horses....
©2013, 2015 Trevor H. Cooley (P)2016 Trevor H. Cooley

2. eBook/Kindle (Author)

Dead Lawyers Don't Lie: A Gripping Thriller (Jake Wolfe Book 1)
by Mark Nolan
I am liking the writing and the primary characters (photo-journalist and police detective) as I start this.
I received this ebook from the author for an honest review.
A mysterious killer who calls himself The Artist is assassinating wealthy lawyers in San Francisco. When war veteran Jake Wolfe accidentally takes his picture during a murder, The Artist adds Jake to his kill list and he becomes a target in a deadly game of cat and mouse that only one of them can survive. How far would you go to protect your loved ones from a killer? Jake wants to leave his secret, violent past life behind him. But the reluctant, flawed hero can't ignore his duty and his personal moral compass.
This gripping thriller is full of suspense, plot twists and surprises. It features a cast of interesting characters, including several strong-willed women, two wise-cracking San Francisco Police Homicide Inspectors, one highly intelligent dog, and a philosophical killer who shares Jake's admiration for Van Gogh paintings but still plans to kill him anyway. As Jake gets closer to unraveling a merciless conspiracy, his life gets turned upside down and the danger level increases, adding to the growing suspense. This entertaining page-turner starts out as a murder mystery and then shifts gears into a high-speed action thriller that takes you on a roller-coaster ride to the riveting ending. A good read for those who enjoy mysteries, suspense, action and adventure, vigilante justice, unique characters, witty dialogue and a little romance too. Now on sale in over a dozen countries around the world. Be the first among your friends to read it.

3. Audible/MP3 (Narrator)

Mistletoe Mayhem: Dawson Chronicles, Book 1
Written by: Linda Bridey
Narrated by: Mary Ann Weathers
I am looking forward to listening to this one next.
I received this audio title from the narrator through AudioBook Boom.
Publisher's Summary
In 1918, Sawyer Samuels is injured in The Great War and given a medical discharge. He's sent back to his hometown of Dawson, Montana, but it's a bittersweet homecoming. There is more to his discharge than he can tell most people. Shortly after coming home, Sawyer runs into Devon Dwyer, the woman who rejected his marriage proposal before he enlisted in the army. His feelings for her are as strong as ever, but after their painful parting, there's no going back.
Seeing Sawyer again drives home the point to Devon that her heart still belongs to him even though she's tried to move on. However, she knows the situation is hopeless. There's still too much anger and pain between them to reconcile - or is there?
Enter a group of their wily friends who have some tricks up their sleeves to push Sawyer and Devon to attempt to repair their broken relationship. As the Christmas season begins, chaos and mayhem ensue. Meanwhile, tensions in Dawson rise as suspicions rise and threaten the peace and wellbeing of their town. Can Sawyer and Devon recapture the love they once shared? Can the citizens of Dawson rise to the challenges and dangers that arise? Join the adventure and find out.
©2015 Linda Bridey (P)2016 Linda Bridey

July 30, 2016 - I am still one day behind but expect to catch up this week with 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 only posted two reviews, which puts me at five to do.

I am still accepting new audio titles as I can always squeeze listening in!
I have been reading author titles so I am down to five.
My NetGalley shelf is at four since I added a title this week.
I am still hoping to read TBRs in September but I will have a few of the author titles to get in also. I am planning more TBRs for November when I will participate in Sci Fi Month 2016.

I am still working on additional releases at eTreasure's NetGalley page .

Welcome to Mailbox Monday.

Mailbox Monday is a gathering place for readers to share the books that came into their house last week and explore great book blogs. This Meme started with Marcia at A Girl and Her Books (fka The Printed Page) and after a tour of hosts has returned to its permanent home at Mailbox Monday. Thanks to the ladies sharing hosting duties: Leslie of Under My Apple Tree, Serena of Savvy Verse & Wit and Vicki of I'd Rather Be at the Beach. Warning: Mailbox Monday can lead to envy, toppling TBR piles and humongous wish lists.

I received one review book through NetGalley and one print book for a poetry tour in October.
I also picked up two Audible titles with credits.
Again, I didn't purchase any kindle titles. I didn't realize I picked up so many free kindle titles till I looked at the orders.

Are your mailbox and TBR piles blooming?

Review Titles

I received one ebook through NetGalley: 
 
The Captive Heart
by Michelle Griep
This Christian, Historical Romance releases in October.

I received this book from the author 

for Poetic Book Tour Review on October 11, 2016:

Ergon Paperback

by George H.S. Singer

I am intrigued to read these poems and thoughts by a former Monk.

Won

NONE

Purchased

I picked up my two July Audible titles last week and forgot to list them:

Blood in the Water: Destroyermen Series, Book 11
Written by: Taylor Anderson
Narrated by: William Dufris
This series is an automatic buy for me even if I save it for a TBR next year... or not.

Warship: Black Fleet Trilogy, Book 1
Written by: Joshua Dalzelle
Narrated by: Mark Boyett
This looked like a space sci fi I would like.

Free

I added 63 free Kindle titles to my library. Titles found linked through Bookbub, Bookfun, Ereader News Today, Free Par-tay, Ignite Your Book, Inspired Reads, Pixel of Ink or Kindle ebooks.

Sunday Words of Encouragement August 28, 2016

Our Sunday School Teacher continued to summarize Romans, covering Romans 9 through the beginning of 11. The passages reveal the importance of Israel as God’s chosen people and special nation. With all the countries and people who hate Israel and the Jews why is it still here? Because God's hand of protection is still on His people.

Pastor started a new sermon series titled “BE”. The first thing lesson:
BE forgiven… and forgive.
1. We forgive because we are forgiven. Matthew 6:14-15; Matthew 5:23-25. Forgiveness has a very high importance.
2. God’s forgiveness sets the sinner free. Psalm 103:8-12 God sets our sin away, as far as east is from the west. Ephesians 1:7; Isaiah 1:18. The capacity to forgive comes from God. His power can break every chain and set us free.
3. God’s forgiveness renders the enemy’s accusations powerless. Why would you continue to believe a liar once you know he is a liar?

BE FORGIVEN!!
Forgive yourself and forgive anyone who may have offended you. We depend on each other as members of a unified body.

I was looking for a different song on Forgiveness but came upon this one:

TobyMac - Forgiveness

Verses for Today:
Psalm 103: 9-12 NIV
9 He will not always accuse,
nor will he harbor his anger forever;
10 he does not treat us as our sins deserve
or repay us according to our iniquities.
11 For as high as the heavens are above the earth,
so great is his love for those who fear him;
12 as far as the east is from the west,
so far has he removed our transgressions from us.

God, thank you for forgiving and forgetting; help us to do the same.

Sharing Beyond Books #267 Comment Giveaway August 27, 2016

Hello again and Welcome to Sharing Beyond Books, SBB!

Thanks to everyone who commented last week.

The overwhelming position (11 to 2) is that we like to start series with the first book if possible. However, 8 of us will read out of order if the book comes to us or we pick it up not realizing it is mid series. Two commenters will skip around or read in whatever order the books are available.

~~~~~

The Winner from SBB #266 comments is:#11 Marjorie 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 #267

(One Question.)

Nikki asks: Has a book ever made you want to learn something new? (eg. Archery from The Hunger Games or Tarot Card Reading from City of Bones)??

I do get inspired to learn new things from books I read. Sadly, I seldom get inspired enough to pursue the interest. When I was younger I was more likely to try some projects I read about. Now I am more likely to try to visit a location I read about. :-)

Image Found at Children's Book Quotes Pinterest page

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.

Comments in August were provided by: Elizabeth, Poetryinleaves, Birgit and Nikki. Random.Org pick is #3 Birgit.

Your turn to share: Nikki asks: Has a book ever made you want to learn something new? (eg. Archery from The Hunger Games or Tarot Card Reading from City of Bones)??

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

SBB Rules:
a) Must be a follower.
b) Share a comment on the question above.
Open internationally and an international winner may get a smaller book or a $5.00 GC if I decide the mailing is too much.
I will pick a Comment winner from all comments made through Saturday September 3, 2016 at 5 PM central.

Book Review: Quiet As They Come by Angie Chau

This is a remarkably engaging quick read.
Quiet As They Come (Free Story for Kindle)
Angie Chau

File Size: 469 KB
Print Length: 202 pages
Publisher: Ig Publishing (August 17, 2010)
ASIN: B0042FZRD4
Genre: Asian American, Fiction
My Rating: 4.5 of 5.0

Quiet As They Come is a beautiful and at times brutal portrait of a people caught between two cultures. Set in San Francisco from the 1980s to the present day, this debut collection explores the lives of several families of Vietnamese immigrants as they struggle to adjust to life in their new country, often haunted by the memories and customs of their old lives in Vietnam. While some are able to survive and assimilate, others are crushed by the promise of the "American Dream." No matter their fate, you will never be able to forget the people you meet in this remarkable collection.

Review:
Viet Tran was known by his friends in Vietnam as a quiet man of letters; co-workers consider him a hard worker and great listener. Viet is a slight, unimposing figure who prefers to maintain a low profile. Viet works through tai chi to help control his emotions. But behind his quiet façade are roiling emotions with memories he tries to forget. When a co-worker shows disrespect towards Viet's young daughter the man has no idea what demons he may awaken.

Quiet As They Come is just one short story from the collection of stories about the lives of Vietnamese immigrants trying to adjust in San Francisco in the 1980s. This was a pleasant surprise! It is just a short story but packed with a lot of life experience and emotional depth. Chau portrays her character with depth and dignity. Based on the surprising smoothness and depth of this one book, I expect that the full collection would be wonderfully engaging and insightful.

This was a free Kindle story on my TBR shelf from 2010 so it qualifies for Mount TBR Challenge.

Martha's Bookshelf***Friday Pick Giveaway August 26, 2016

Happy Friday!
It's Friday already?! Thanks for the many congratulations and prayers this week.
The week went by very quickly since I flew out Saturday to help our son and daughter-in-law get settled in with the twins. I am glad I got to meet my new grand babies and was able to help by spending quality time with our 3 1/2 year old "Sweet Pea". After a bit of a stress with blood work the test finally were determined to be false positive and mom and the twins got to come back home Wednesday when I had to leave. Our d-i-l's parents arrived Wednesday afternoon so they still have helpers.

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 August 19 Pick. This week there was one automatic win again. Automatic wins are those who requested the book four times without other people asking for that book during those weeks. There was one book with a three way block again, but it was won this week.
AUTO: Elizabeth gets The Tara Taylor Quinn pair.

CONGRATULATIONS
to Random.org picked Winners from August 19 Pick:
Carol L gets The Necessary Bride (by Debra Mullins)

Sue F also gets She Came Back (through the three-way block for several weeks)

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 recognize three authors but haven't read any books from this list.

Image found at Kiss My List.
 
New Book Group #66 June 25, 2016

(I will post a picture later. *Four of these books are very old; pulled from a box of gothic novels I have had for many years. They may not be wanted by anyone and if so, I will donate elsewhere in time.)
Sandra Brown: Above and Beyond and Honor Bound (my copy is 1986 edition with a different cover
Joan Johnston: Faron & Garth: The Cowboy and the Princess / The Wrangler and the Rich Girl and Sweetwater Seduction
SINGLES:
Swan for the Money by Donna Andrews (new- hardcover)
*Maggie – Her Marriage by Taylor Caldwell (1953 very old, yellowed pages, some stain damage doesn't effect reading)
*Witch’s Hammer by Caroline Farr (a 1967 yellowed pages - different cover)
*Mistress of Mount Fair by Jane Gordon
Once an Angel by Tammy Hilz
Bound By Temptation by Lavinia Kent
Fire Dancer by Ann Maxwell
On Fire by Carla Neggers (1999 version with different cover)
Breathing Room by Susan Elizabeth Phillips
Waiting for Nick & Considering Kate by Nora Roberts
*She Came Back by Patricia Wentworth (1981 yellowed pages)
Freedom's Stand by J. M. Windle


New Book Group #65 April 29, 2016

SINGLES:
A Dangerous Fancy by Tracy Cozzens
The Champion by Heather Grothaus
So Wild A Kiss by Nancy Richards-Akers


New Book Group #64 March 4, 2016

SINGLES:
Short Straw (Ed Eagle Novel) by Stuart Woods Hardcover
First Things First by Stephen R. Covey- Audio Cassette
N is for noose by Sue Grafton -Cassettes
Regretsy: Where DIY Meets WTF by April Winchell


New Book Group #63 January 22, 2016

SINGLES:
Wayward Winds by Michael Phillips - Audio Tapes

New Book Group #62 November 6, 2015
All Gone

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.)

SINGLES:
Bride of Lochbarr by Margaret Moore (*)
The Ideal Bride by Stephanie Laurens (*)
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:
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!

SINGLES:
Cruise to a Wedding by Betty Neels

New Book Group #58 June 26, 2015 -- All Gone

New Book Group #57 May 1, 2015 -- All Gone


New Book Group #56 March 20, 2015
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 Hidden Truth of Cytech's Randall Forty byVickie Kennedy
First to Fight Anthology
Jezebel by Katherine Sutcliff
The Commander by Kate Bridges
A Garden of Friends by Penny Pierce Rose
Undateable by Ellen Rakieten & Anne Coyle


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)
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)
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


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 991+ 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!

Audio Book Review: Deceitful Moon: Manny Williams Series, Book 2 by Rick Murcer

I enjoyed this fast-paced, well-plotted, suspenseful mystery that comes with a side of light banter to balance the gruesome deaths.

Deceitful Moon: Manny Williams Series, Book 2
Written by: Rick Murcer
Narrated by: DJ Holte

Length: 8 hrs and 10 mins
Unabridged Audiobook
Release Date:08-12-15
Publisher: Rick Murcer, LLC
Genre: Mystery Thriller
My Rating: 4.5 of 5.0

Publisher's Summary
Detective Manny Williams and his partner, Sophie Lee, are called to the scene of a disturbing and gruesome murder at Lansing's local adult playhouse, the White Kitty. The circumstances surrounding the murder rocket deeper into the bizarre as the forensic evidence reveals more questions than answers. As he begins his investigation, Manny is interrupted by a phone call that shakes his world. His nemesis, serial killer Dr. Fredrick Argyle, has killed again and sent the evidence to prove it. Argyle's heinous actions force Manny and Sophie back to the Caribbean. All the while the body count rises in his home city. Two serial killers. Each threatening to change his life forever. One succeeds.
©2011 Rick Murgittroyd (P)2015 Murcer Press, LLC

Review:
Manny is a dedicated, driven, workaholic police detective. He loves his wife and daughter but that doesn’t stop him from getting pulled away when he is deep in pursuit of a killer. He gets along well with his partner, Sophie, who, even though married, seems to flirt a bit - okay outrageously - especially with one of the FBI agents they have been working with. Manny has his own draw to resist in the form of a female FBI agent.

Manny and Sophie are just getting into the investigation of a local murder binge that appears to be targeting men of ill repute, known for hurting or mistreating women. Although the vigilante killer (or killers) may be ridding society of some real low life, still it’s murder. Before Manny gets deep into the forensics, where he likes to dig, he gets a call he doesn’t want to hear.

Another serial killer, and Manny’s nemesis, Dr. Fredrick Argyle, is on the killing path again and is baiting Manny to catch him. This guy is very brutal and creepy, reminding me of Hannibal Lecter.
Manny and his team speed off to the new crime scene where Dr. Argyle leaves a few mutilated bodies and warnings that Manny and his family and friends are not safe. Back home, Manny’s own boss is shot at point blank range leaving Manny another killer to track.

The story makes clear shifts between the murder investigations keeping the reader/listener keyed to gather the clues. The author skillfully hints at suspects that do not seem probable but one never quite knows what might cause someone to snap.

Although the plot deals with some gruesome murders, the author manages to maintain a certain lightness in the friendship of the characters and the depth of love among the family. The comedic banter seems natural as a release to ease the tensions of their gritty jobs. Mr. Murcer does a good job with each element: strong characters, skillfully plotted mysteries with red-herring clues and twists, and high levels of action and suspense. I really enjoyed the forensic details and mind thinking that Manny sorts through trying to get ahead of the killers.

The story is sprinkled with cursing, as might be expected with cops and killers, but, as far as I can recall, the author doesn’t use the worst of the words. I really enjoyed the fast-paced style and the strong, engaging protagonist. Although this can be read without having read the first book, it made me wish that I had read that one first. Also, this ends with open lines for new changes in the next book. I do recommend this book (and series) to those who enjoy good forensic details and can deal with some gritty murder scenes.

Audio Notes: DJ Holte does a really good job with the narration. He provides smooth transitions between distinct voices and he captures and portrays the range of emotions including love, humor, hatred, mania and more. The audio definitely enhanced my enjoyment of this reading experience.

I received this audio book from the narrator for an honest review. This qualifies for my 2016 Audio Challenge.

Sharing Beyond Books #266 Comment Giveaway August 23, 2016 (for 8/20)

Hello again and Welcome to Sharing Beyond Books, SBB!
[Sorry to miss Saturday night posting. Just enough time now during child nap to get to this post. :-)]

Thanks to everyone who commented last week.
Interestingly the favorite shake flavors fell within five flavors: 5 commenters picked chocolate (one being dark chocolate); 5 others picked strawberry but two of those were mixed with another flavor; 3 chose banana, one of those mixed with strawberry; 3 chose vanilla although 2 of those were alternates to chocolate; and 2 of us picked coffee (including mine since Jamocha is a mix of coffee and chocolate but I didn't count it for chocolate).

~~~~~

The Winner from SBB #265 comments is:#9 Janhvi 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 #266

(One Question.)

Birgit asks: Do you always start reading a series with book one? Or are you like me, often discovering a series by accidentally (eg finding an interesting novel on sale and giving it a try) reading a book later on in the series??

We've had a few questions on "series", but not quite this one.
I prefer to start series at book 1 but I sometimes get the chance to read a mid-series book for review. I sometimes think twice, but usually I won't turn them down.:-) I have found some good series that way. Getting back to the earlier books is always a challenge though, considering how many books I have in the TBR stacks already.

Image Found at Pinterest page

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.

Your turn to share:
Birgit asks: Do you always start reading a series with book one? Or are you like me, often discovering a series by accidentally (eg finding an interesting novel on sale and giving it a try) reading a book later on in the series??

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 August 27, 2016 at 5 PM central.

Sunday Post August 21, 2016/It's Monday! What are You Reading? Plus Mailbox Monday August 22, 2016

[I use this post to help me keep track so I am posting even though late.]

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.

As I explained in a post Monday afternoon I caught a flight up to Indiana on Saturday to visit with my son and daughter-in-law and to help out as they were bringing home the newborn twins. I didn't have computer/internet access from Friday night until Monday mid-morning. Besides the fact I had no time to be on the computer.:-)

My reading/listening was good with extra on the plane, even though I only finished two books: one audio and one ebook. I posted two reviews but only my Sunday/Monday and Friday memes.

I enjoyed visiting some blogs early in the week.
Thanks as always to all the nice people who visit me.

These were last week's posts (the fewest in a long time I think - but for good reason!):

• Sunday Post August 14, 2016/It's Monday! What are You Reading? Plus Mailbox Monday August 15, 2016.

• Book Review: The Crêpes of Wrath, A Pancake House Mystery by Sarah Fox; Cozy Mystery; my rating 4.5.

• Book Review: The Cat, The Collector and the Killer by Leann Sweeney; Cozy Mystery; my rating 4.5.

• Martha's Bookshelf***Friday Pick Giveaway August 19, 2016. Open Worldwide. Ending 8/25/2016.

Finished Reading:

1. Audible/MP3 (Narrator)

Unseemly Pursuits: The Concordia Wells Mysteries Book 2
Written by: K.B. Owen
Narrated by: Becket Royce
I enjoyed this even more than book one! 
Nicely plotted mystery and engaging characters. :-)
Click on book title for full description.

2. eBook/Kindle (Author)

The Lame Duck
by Bernard Leo Remakus
A lot of this is scary... but very captivating. 
The author offered me this Medical thriller with a female lawyer.
Click on book title for full description.

Currently reading:

1. Audible/MP3 (Narrator)

Apocalypse Machine
Written by: Jeremy Robinson
Narrated by: Jeffrey Kafer
I am 60% along in this engaging EOTW Thriller.
I received this audio title from the narrator through AudioBook Boom.
Publisher's Summary
The human race started the sixth mass extinction on Earth.
A chain of subglacial volcanoes erupt in Iceland. The melting ice floods the countryside. Poisonous gas descends on Scotland. A tsunami devastates the Norwegian coastline. An ash cloud rises into the atmosphere, blotting out the sun across Europe, ushering in a new Ice Age. Dozens of nuclear power plants, flooded by ocean water, experience meltdowns. Millions perish. Many more are displaced. All on the first day.
On the second day, a series of earthquakes moving in a straight line, reveal the presence of something massive walking across the landscape. Concealed by a thick, radioactive ash cloud, the 'aberration' heads west, toward Russia.
Abraham Wright, a science writer for Modern Scientist, who wants nothing more than to be reunited with his family, finds himself at the center of the United States' response to the crisis. Under his new title as Assistant Science Advisor to the President, Wright is sent to Europe with a team of Army Rangers, where he uncovers the truth about the ancient behemoth laying waste to the world: there have been five mass extinctions on planet Earth, and the aberration has been present at each.
On the third day, the world fights back.
And loses.
Separated from his family by continents and oceans ravaged by countless disasters and populated by strange new life, Wright struggles to survive in an evolving world. Hoping to uncover the key to mankind's redemption, he fights for answers, and to reach his loved ones - before the human race's extinction.
The Apocalypse Machine will finish it.
Jeremy Robinson returns to the Kaiju thriller genre he popularized with the largest Kaiju to ever appear in fiction: the Apocalypse Machine. Bursting with all the epic action, desperate struggle and complex characters that listeners have come to expect, Robinson takes the world to the brink.
©2016 Jeremy Robinson (P)2016 Jeremy Robinson

2. eBook/Kindle (Author)

Second Chances - A "Chosen" Short Story
by Jeff Altabef and Erynn Altabef
This short story sounds engaging. 
Received from author for an honest review.
Precious and rare, second chances must be earned, but has Ayden done enough to win his?
[Short Story, Teen & Young Adult, Mystery and Thriller, Fantasy and Supernatural, American Indian Culture]
One night changes everything.
One chance meeting forces a young man to make a choice.
Will he do what’s right?
Or what’s easy?
Ayden is forced to remember old secrets he’d rather not reveal when his daughter returns home with questions about his shadowy past and dangerous legacy. Will she understand when he tells her about the night mysterious strangers came to his sleepy Arizona town looking for a local medicine man?
As his tale unfolds, Ayden pieces together the mystery that connected a recent murder, the strangers, and the medicine man’s bizarre behavior.
Will he allow old demons to rule him, or will he get a second chance?

3. eBook/Kindle

Keepsake for Eagle Cove
by M. L. Buchman
Book 4 in small town romance series.
I really like this author and hope reading Book 4 will be okay. Releases 8/30
-an Eagle Cove romance-
In the heart-warming conclusion to the Eagle Cove series:
Tiffany Mills hides a secret about the small Oregon Coast town of Eagle Cove. The line between her past and her present grows blurred. Until, with her life as a recluse threatened, she must defend her beloved homestead in the woods.
Devin Robison wants nothing to do with women, at least for now. He needs a summer as far away from his past as he can get. The opposite of Chicago? A renovation job on a remote Oregon lighthouse keeper’s cottage feels just perfect.
But when their pasts collide and their present unfolds, they both discover the Keepsake for Eagle Cove.

July 30, 2016 - I am still one day behind but expect to catch up this week with 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 two reviews. That still keeps me with four: two new and two older. So I continue to feel mostly up to date.

I am still accepting new audio titles as I can always squeeze listening in!
I am still at seven on the author titles list.
My NetGalley shelf is still at three.
I was hoping to set aside September for TBR books but I will have a few of the author titles to get in also.

I am still working on additional releases at eTreasure's NetGalley page .

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 three new audio review books.
Again, I didn't purchase any kindle titles but picked the usual generous number of free kindle titles.

Are your mailbox and TBR piles blooming?

Review Titles

I received these three audio titles from the author/narrator through AudioBook Boom.

Apocalypse Machine
Written by: Jeremy Robinson
Narrated by: Jeffrey Kafer
See full description under Currently Reading above.

Tarah Woodblade: The Bowl of Souls Book 6
Written by: Trevor H. Cooley
Narrated by: Andrew Tell

Sounded like an fantasy with good action.

Mistletoe Mayhem: Dawson Chronicles, Book 1
Written by: Linda Bridey
Narrated by: Mary Ann Weathers
This historical romance looks like one I will enjoy.

Won

NONE

Purchased

NONE

Free

Through Sunday emails I added 49 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.