MBS July 2017 Reading List Wrap-Up

MBS 2017 Reading List - JULY

Code for the list is:
A = Audible; ABJ = Audiobook Jukebox; ABB = Audiobook Boom
e = eBook; eA = eBook from Author; eT = eBook from Tour
NG = NetGalley
P = Print; PT = Print from Tour
LBC = Ladies Book Club
TBR = From the TBR shelves prior to 2017

5 Star = Serenity Harbor; Poetry and Ponderings and Pursuit of God

1. ATBR- Audible Book Review: Avenging Home: The Survivalist Series, Book 7 by A. American; Post Apocalyptic, Survival; my rating 3.75.
2. eNGT- Book Review: Serenity Harbor by RaeAnne Thayne; Small Town Romance; my rating 5.0.
3. P(PUYB)- Book Review: FIFO 50 STATES by Hayley Rose; Children, Educational; my rating 4.0.
4. eTBR- Book Review: The Detective: A Nathan McNamara Story (The Soul Summoner) by Elicia Hyder; Police Procedure; my rating 4.25.
   
5. PLBC- Book Review and Giveaway: A Texan's Choice, Heart of a Hero Series #3 by Shelley Gray; Western Historical Romance, Inspirational; my rating 4.25
6. ATBR- Audible Book Review: The Days of Noah: Book One: Conspiracy by Mark Goodwin; Sci Fi, Conspiracy, Chrisitian; my rating 4.25.
7. eNG- Book Review: Wild Horse Springs (Ransom Canyon) by Jodi Thomas; Contemporary, Small Town Romance, Mystery; my rating 4.25.
8. ATBR- Audible Review: The Curse of Tenth Grave: A Novel by Darynda Jones; Paranormal, Mystery; my rating 4.0.
9. PrintT- Tour Book Review: Poetry and Ponderings by Diamante Lavendar; Poetry, Inspirational; my rating 5.0.
10. eNG- Book Review: Blink by K.L. Slater; Psychological Thriller; my rating 4.25.
11. ATBR- Audible Book Review: Into the Black: Odyssey One by Evan Currie; Sci Fi, Space Opera, Military, First Contact; my rating 4.25.
12. e(PUYB)- Book Review: Book Review: The Duke needs a Wife: The Belles of Bath by Katy Walters; Historical Romance, Regency; My rating 3.75.
13. ATBR- Audible Book Review: The Pursuit of God by A.W. Tozer; Christian, Classic, Religion, Theology; my rating 5.0.
14. ATBR- Audible Book Review: Jackaby by William Ritter; Mystery, Paranormal,Teen; my rating 4.25.
15. eNG- Book Review: Book Review: AFTERLIFE by Marcus Sakey; Ghost, Thriller; My rating 3.75.

Total read = 15; TBR = 7; New Authors = 7
Audio/Audible = 6 (all TBRs)
eBook =  2 PUYB; 1TBR
NetGalley = 3
Print = 3

Sunday Post July 30, 2017/It's Monday! What are You Reading? Plus Mailbox Monday July 31, 2017

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.

All my weeks seem busy anymore. July is ending and we move into a new month. I have several weekend conferences this month so I'll be scrambling in between. I hope some of you are enjoying some vacation time before school starts for the young ones.

Reading was nice. I finished three books: two audios books and one ebook. I posted four reviews along with all of my usual memes and an extra giveaway post.

I visited 30 blogs last week.
Shout out this week is to The Literary Phoenix, new to me, with a very pretty blog.
Thank you to all the nice people who visit me.

These were last week's posts:

• Sunday Post July 23, 2017/It's Monday! What are You Reading? Plus Mailbox Monday July 24, 2017.

• ATBR- Audible Review: The Curse of Tenth Grave: A Novel by Darynda Jones; Paranormal, Mystery; my rating 4.0.

• Some Awesome Giveaways! Ending 7/30 or 7/31.

• eNG- Book Review: Blink by K.L. Slater; Psychological Thriller; my rating 4.25.

• Martha's Bookshelf***Friday Pick Giveaway July 28, 2017. Open Worldwide. Ending 8/3/2017.

• ATBR- Audible Book Review: Into the Black: Odyssey One by Evan Currie; Sci Fi, Space Opera, Military, First Contact; my rating 4.25.

• ePUYB Campaign- Book Review: Book Review: The Duke needs a Wife: The Belles of Bath by Katy Walters; Historical Romance, Regency; My rating 3.75.

• Sharing Beyond Books #313 Comment Giveaway July 29, 2017. Open Worldwide. Ending 8/5/2017.

• Sunday Words of Encouragement July 30, 2017.

Finished Reading:
1. Audible/MP3 (TBR)

The Pursuit of God
Written by: A. W. Tozer
Narrated by: Mark Moseley
Length: 3 hrs and 17 mins
This classic fit well with our pastor teachings and the Freedom Course I have been participating in.
Click on book title for full description.

2. Audio/MP3 (TBR)

Jackaby
Written by: William Ritter
Narrated by: Nicola Barber
Length: 7 hrs and 21 mins
This was a fun listen. It is another TBR audible to serve as "J" for Alphabet Challenge.
Click on book title for full description.

3. eBook/Kindle (NG)

AFTERLIFE
by Marcus Sakey
This is a distinctly different story.
Received through NetGalley from Little Bird Publicity.
Click on book title for full description.

Currently Reading:

1. eBook/Kindle

Jeopardy in July: A Jamie Quinn Mystery (Jamie Quinn Cozy Mystery Book 5)
by Barbara Venkataraman
I am enjoying this fun mystery 
with female attorney protagonist.
Click on book title for full description.

2. Audible/MP3 (ABJ)

Sherlock Holmes and the Red Demon:
A Minnesota Mystery: Sherlock Holmes & Shadwell, Book 1
Written by: Larry Millett
Narrated by: Steve Hendrickson
Length: 9 hrs and 35 mins
I am engaged in the beginning of this, loving Holmes' observations. I received the audio book from the publisher through Audiobook Jukebox.
Publisher's Summary
In the summer of 1994, a workman at the historic mansion of railroad baron James J. Hill in St. Paul, Minnesota, stumbles on a long-hidden wall safe. When experts arrive to open the safe and examine its contents, they make an astonishing discovery. There, inside, is a handwritten manuscript bearing the signature of John H. Watson, MD. The manuscript contains the story of how Sherlock Holmes and Watson traveled to Minnesota to track a murderous arsonist - known only as the Red Demon - who is threatening both Hill and his Great Northern Railway.
Set against the backdrop of the real, devastating Hinckley forest fire of 1894, Sherlock Holmes and the Red Demon is the tense and atmospheric first novel in Larry Millett's classic series of adventures that brought Sherlock Holmes and Dr. Watson to Minnesota.
©1996 Lawrence Millett (P)2016 Audio-Visceral Productions

3. eBook/Kindle

Love Takes Two
by Patrice Moore
This is my next NetGalley title.
 I do like the cover. :-)
Single mom Molly Jenkins relocates to a small mountain town in hopes of removing her young son from bad influences. But Ken is caught in an act of vandalism on their neighbor’s ranch, and the no-nonsense owner informs Molly her son needs a man’s strong hand to keep him in line. Having been raised by a tough-to-the-point-of-cruel father, she doesn’t want her son to be guided by men like that. She believes he needs nothing more than security and lots of mother-love.

Nathan Jones knows what it’s like to be raised without a father, and he disagrees with the coddling Molly gives her son. His own upbringing led him to make some poor choices, and he wants to keep Ken from making similar mistakes. It is a complicated tangle of emotions and past hurts that prevent Molly and Nathan from agreeing, but can they come together to keep Ken from going down the wrong path…and maybe find their own path to love on the way?

4. Audible/MP3 (TBR)

The Borrowed World: A Novel of Post-Apocalyptic Collapse, Volume 1
Written by: Franklin Horton
Narrated by: Kevin Pierce
Length: 7 hrs and 54 mins
This is from my Audible TBR for Alphabet "B".
Publisher's Summary
In a night of devastating terror, ISIS operatives have unleashed a coordinated attack on America's infrastructure. Life as we know it in America grinds to a halt as the electrical grid collapses, communication networks are damaged, critical bridges and dams are destroyed, and major fuel refineries go up in massive fiery clouds. When the government responds by immediately halting fuel sales to the public, Jim Powell finds himself in a terrifying predicament - trapped five hundred miles from home with a group of coworkers.
With thousands of trapped travelers and scarce law enforcement, the miles between Jim and his family become a brutal gauntlet where the rules of civilized society no longer apply. As Jim puts his years of preparation and planning to the test, he is forced to ask himself if he has what it takes to make it home. Does he have the strength - the brutality - required to meet this new world toe-to-toe?
©2015 Franklin Horton (P)2015 Franklin Horton

July 30, 2017 - I am still half a day ahead in the One Year Bible; reading along with my husband and others from our church. I hope to take more time this year, staying on the day and listening to the companion commentary online.

Some of my reading time is going to a Wednesday night study we are doing called Freedom Course.

I completed three books and posted four reviews. That brings me to three current reviews and one for September release. I am behind adding my latest reviews to Goodreads, Amazon and Audible. I just keep trying to add several each week to get caught up.
I am down to 5 NetGalley titles (but eyeing new ones) and still 8 author titles in my queue.

We're working on two fiction books soon to add to 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 (yours truly).  
Warning: Mailbox Monday can lead to envy, toppling TBR piles and humongous wish lists.
I received one Audio review book.
I made it to 93% at NetGalley so I am looking at titles to request soon.
I purchased one $.99 Kindle title.
As usual, I picked up lots more free kindle titles as usual. (Note these are in my Amazon library, NOT on my Kindle until I download and transfer them.)

Are your mailbox and TBR piles blooming?

Review Titles

I received the audio book from the publisher through Audiobook Jukebox

Sherlock Holmes and the Red Demon: A Minnesota Mystery
By: Larry Millett
Narrator: Steve Hendrickson
Duration: 9 hrs and 35 mins
See full description above under Current Reading.

Won

NONE

Purchased

No new Audible books this week.
I spotted this 5 starred box set on Kindle for $.99:
 
The Traveler Series: A Post-Apocalyptic/Dystopian Adventure: Books 1-3
by Tom Abrahams

Free

I picked up Week Fourteen SYNC Audio titles:
AIRBORN by Kenneth Oppel, Narrated by David Kelly (Full Cast Audio)
SHADOWS ON THE MOON by Zoe Marriott, Narrated by Amy Rubinate (Brilliance Audio)

I wanted to share lots more but I settled on these five of my Free Kindle Picks: (the last three, with lovely covers, may still be free)

New World Rising: Book One in a Young Adult Dystopian Series
by Jennifer Wilson (discovered last week through Savvy Verse and Wit.)

Tahoe Deathfall (An Owen McKenna Mystery Thriller Book 1)
by Todd Borg (discovered last week through Silver's Reviews)

Hollyhock Ridge (Rose Hill Mystery Series Book 7)
Pamela Grandstaff

Honor & Roses: A Medieval Romance
(Swordcross Knights Book 1)
by Elizabeth Cole

The Chocolate Garden (Dare River Book 2)
by Ava Miles


I added 80 (ouch again!) free Kindle titles to my library this week. Titles found linked through Bookbub, Bookfun, Ereader News Today, Free Par-tay, Ignite Your Book, Inspired Reads, Pixel of Ink or Kindle ebooks.

Sunday Words of Encouragement July 30, 2017

We prayed for friends who had surgery and losses. We also gave thanks for doctors and freedoms. Our substitute Sunday School teacher continued the last two weeks of messages on self-control and love.

Pastor continued the series on Dangerous. Last week’s dangerous prayer was “search me”, this week’s dangerous prayer is “use me”. This is another prayer that can be risky. When we pray this prayer we shouldn’t be surprised if God will stretch us, as He often does. He often moves us outside of our comfort zone. Start each day with "use me". The book of Acts shares how the disciples allowed God to use them with action: first “Stay and wait for power”. Second, “Go with the message of good news”.

Acts 17:28 says “For in him we live and move and exist…”. That is the correct statement. It is not “for me, He lives and moves and exists”. Our lives are to be lived for God. Whatever skills He has given us, we are to use well for His glory. Romans 12:13-16; Philippians 2:12-17.

The Point: The reason for our daily existence is to be used by God. So pray...
Use Me.

God has trouble using us when our lives are crowded by appointments, activities or sins. We are told to keep ourselves pure as a special utensil, so we will be ready for God to use for His good work. 2 Timothy 2:19-26. We can be an instrument of honor or dishonor.

What is standing in the way of allowing God to use you? This is not a church thing but an individual thing. We should pray for God to “Use me” in my family, my work, with my friends. Is it true in your life? Can you say of yourself: “In Him I live and move and exist”?

Write USE ME on a blank piece of paper; then journal each day how He uses you. And if you are not used, ask “Why didn't use me?”

This is a good song. If you go to the link you can see the words.

Verses for Today:
2 Timothy 2:21 NIV
21 If you keep yourself pure, you will be a special utensil for honorable use. Your life will be clean, and you will be ready for the Master to use you for every good work.


Lord thank you for the skills that you have blessed me with. Help me pray each morning: “use me” then use the skills You gave to further Your kingdom.

Sharing Beyond Books #313 Comment Giveaway July 29, 2017

Hello again and Welcome to Sharing Beyond Books, SBB!

Thanks to everyone who commented last week.
Seven commenters believe in love at first sight and three are open to the idea. Five believe in instant attraction but that it takes time for true love to grow. One person does not believe in love at first sight.

~~~~~

The Winner from SBB #312 comments is: #7 RITA who can make a GC choice if international or book choice from the Updated (**Finally!) ARC/Review titles or (recently updated) Love and Christmas titles - all linked near the end of the post.

**NOTE: I did post an Updated ARC and Other books for Giveaways. I have to go back and list the titles -- someday.
Please let me know your choice by completing the WINNER FORM.

WEEK #313

(One Question.)

My question asks: What cover images get you to look twice??

My eyes get caught by animals of many kinds: dogs, cats, horses, birds, and dragons for starters. Also, I take a second look at clockwork/cyber creations, space, planets and spaceships. I don't like 'bodice ripper' covers.

Image found at Pinterest saved from mycoverpoint.com.

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.

The commenters for July were: Miki, MaryP, Poetryinleaves and Natalija. Random.org chose 1 so MIKI gets a GC.

Your turn to share. My question asks: What cover images get you to look twice??

SBB Comment Winners can choose a selection from the Updated ARC and Other books, including the "Love" and Christmas titles all in one post.

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 5, 2017 at 5 PM central.

Book Review: The Duke needs a Wife: The Belles of Bath by Katy Walters

This steamy regency romance has a decent plot and reads easily.

The Duke needs a Wife: The Belles of Bath
by Katy Walters

File Size: 4292 KB
Print Length: 188 pages
Publisher: Rucrofts Publishing.; 2 edition (April 22, 2017)
ASIN: B0713NVHR2
Genre: Historical Romance, Regency
My Rating: 3.75 of 5.0

On the untimely demise of her parents, Miss Cassandra Whitney endures abject poverty raising her siblings. She faces further torment as her landlord, the odious Baron Scudder, threatens her with eviction, if she refuses to assent to his offer of marriage to her younger sister Belle. As Cassandra fights to save her family, she inherits a titled estate and a ruin of a castle.
News of Casandra’s inheritance travels fast, reaching the highest circles in the ton. The Dowager Duchess of Taunton immediately sees her as a worthy match for her son Maximillian the 6th Duke of Taunton a renowned rakehell. The dowager also plans to take control over the castle which would be a prestigious venue for her many balls and hunting weekends. However, neither Cassandra nor Maximillian has any desire to wed. The Duke is more than inclined to enjoy his various mistresses without the entanglement of matrimony; besides his time is mainly caught up with horses, gaming and his club. What with her siblings, the estate and a ruin of a castle to renovate Cassandra could not possibly entertain the idea of courtship.
Both did not anticipate the manipulative powers of the dowager who slyly arranges a meeting between them.
On seeing Cassandra, Max is suitably impressed with her wit and ironic humour. Already tiring of one of his mistresses, she would be a welcome replacement. Although charmed with his handsome looks and seductive overtures, Cassandra puts him firmly in his place.
Can Cassandra resist the devilish overtures of the Duke and the devious ploys of the dowager?

Review:
This regency is a bit racier than I like. Cassandra is a lovely character but Max is a gritty rake.
Cassandra and her siblings are barely making ends meet after their parents have both died. The greedy, loathsome nobleman who owns their humble home is insistent on marrying Cassandra’s beautiful sister, Belle. Belle has no interest in Baron Scudder as she is affianced to her childhood sweetheart, Jack, one of the farmers. Cassie inherits a castle and determines that many of the ill-treated famer tenants and villages should move to the castle to help her set up house and estate, leaving a furious Baron behind.

Maximillian, the 6th Duke of Taunton, is a renowned rakehell with multiple mistresses and no interest in finding a wife. His mother, The Dowager Duchess of Taunton, thinks it’s time for Max to take a wife and she thinks a humble young lady who has inherited a historic castle would make a perfect bride. Particularly since the Dowager wants to get control of the castle so she can invite and impress her ton friends. The Dowager connives to have Max travel with her to the castle where she invites herself, and entourage, to stay.

Max and Cassie can see the machinations of the Dowager but they are hard pressed to stay out of her way. Although Cassie hadn’t planned to marry as she describes herself as a “butterball”. Max finds her voluptuous curves enticing. Although he is crude and aggressive, he has promised not to take Cassie’s virginity until she asks him.

Max and Cassie grow in friendship as they work together to renovate the castle. But Baron Scudder is still chasing Belle and objecting to the removal of the farmers and villagers. This creates danger and tension that puts Max in the position to protect Cassie and her sister.

Although Cassie is immediately likeable, I can’t say the same for Max. Max is introduced as a crass, almost vulgar, womanizer. I’ve read many historical romances with rakehells and I prefer those who still show a sense of gentlemanliness, especially around innocents. Other than the crass attitude and steamy interludes, the plot, with interfering mother and revengeful suitor, is reasonable and engaging. Although this is more gritty than I like for this genre, those who like steamy regencies might want to try this.

I received this from Pump Up Your Book Campaign for review.

Audible Book Review: Into the Black: Odyssey One by Evan Currie

This is an engaging first contact, space military adventure.
Into the Black: Odyssey One
Written by: Evan Currie
Narrated by: Benjamin L. Darcie

Length: 14 hrs and 55 mins
Series: Odyssey One, Book 1
Unabridged Audiobook
Release Date:03-27-12
Publisher: Brilliance Audio
Genre: Space Opera, Military Action
My Rating: 4.25 of 5.0

Publisher's Summary
Beyond the confines of our small world, far from the glow of our star, lie a galaxy and universe much larger and more varied than anyone on Earth can possibly imagine. For the new NAC spacecraft Odyssey and her crew, the unimaginable facets of this untouched world are about to become reality. The Odyssey's maiden voyage is an epic adventure destined to make history.
Captain Eric Weston and his crew encounter horrors, wonders, monsters, and people; all of which will test their resolve, challenge their abilities, and put in sharp relief what is necessary to be a hero.
A first-rate military-science-fiction epic that combines old-school space opera and modern storytelling, Into the Black: Odyssey One is a riveting, exhilarating adventure with vivid details, rich mythology, and relentless pacing.
©2012 Evan Currie (P)2012 Brilliance Audio, Inc.

Review:
The Odyssey is the first spacecraft sent out from earth with a crew culled from the best of the best. They were really on a test mission, intended to see what the Odyssey can manage and do a little exploring beyond the Solar System. They didn’t plan upon warping into the debris of a devastating battle…and rescuing a survivor. Now they know there are other human races in the universe… and other unknown, and apparently brutal, alien beings.

Captain Weston is new to the position of North American Confederation (NAC) spaceship captain but he is a battle experienced pilot having led the legendary Archangel Flight Group, the specialized fighter units. Weston tries to return their rescued passenger to her nearest planet world only to find an unimaginable situation. Now he must decide if he jumps out of this galaxy to return home or flies into a battle that isn’t their business… or is it?

The characters are likeable and I wasn’t bothered by some familiarity among the ranks that wouldn’t be expected in a real military protocols. The other galaxy human characters have different backgrounds, views and technology that make the interaction interesting. The space travel tachyon (dissolving and restoring particles) is creepy and pretty disturbing, even to the characters. It wasn’t quite clear to me if the alien species is tech or ‘insect’ but their behaviors were engaging, if devastating.

The story moves at a good pace with action and mystery pulling my interest. I admit I spent a couple of nights listening later than I should. I recommend this as a fun, action packed ride to readers who like space opera and first contact genre.

Audio Notes: Benjamin L. Darcie does a nice job with the narration. He presents varied voices and captures the feel of the different characters. The narration moves at a good pace and enhanced my enjoyment of the story.

I picked this from my Audible TBR shelf for Mount TBR, Audiobook Challenge, and "I" in my Alphabet Challenge.

Martha's Bookshelf***Friday Pick Giveaway July 28, 2017

Happy Friday!
Another super busy week for me. I wish things would slow down a bit.

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 July 21 Pick. There were two automatic wins this week. Automatic wins are those who requested the book four times without other people asking for that book during those weeks. There were no titles blocked.
AUTO: BN100 gets Valley of Bones
and Rubynreba gets Hurricane

CONGRATULATIONS
to Random.org picked Winners from July 21 Pick:
FREDAMANS gets a GC.
CAROL L gets Home Sweet Home.

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.}

Now here are some sandals to like (except I don't like the kind between the toes).
Image found at Chicago Magazine.

New Book Group #73 June 16, 2017
I was looking for Summer titles but that didn’t really work.
PAIRS [or Singles] – Since I have four sets of pairs I will work this by first two pairs that go the others go as singles OR you may choose a title as a single and if won that pair falls into single.
Joan Johnston: The Loner and the Cowboy -- Moved to singles
Nora Roberts: Sea Swept (some spine creases) and Genuine Lies
Kat Martin: Midnight Sun and Perfect Sin
Linda Howard (aka Krista Janssen): Cry No More and Indigo Fire (spine wear) -- Moved to singles
SINGLES:
The Loner by Joan Johnston
The Cowboy by Joan Johnston
Cry No More by Linda Howard
Indigo Fire by Linda Howard (spine wear)
Garden of Scandal by Jennifer Blake
A Rogue’s Heart by Debra Lee Brown
The Night Remembers by Kathleen Eagle (spine wear)
A Dragon Prince by Mary Gillgannon
Hurricane by Karen Harper
A Kiss Before Dawn by Kimberly Logan
Sail by James Patterson
Home Sweet Home by Bella Riley


New Book Group #72 May 12, 2017
PAIRS:
Brenda Joyce: The Third Heiress and The Rival
Jayne Ann Krentz: Dangerous Affair and True Colors
SINGLES:
Identity: Unknown by Suzanne Brockmann
The Third Victim by Lisa Gardner
Anna’s Book by Barbara Vine (Audio Cassette)
Passions Treasure by Betina Krahn
My Reckless Surrender by Anna Campbell
Led Astray By A Rake by Sara Bennett
Deep Freeze by Lisa Jackson
Rainbow Mars by Larry Niven
Bound by Destiny by Rayka Mennen
Valley of Bones by Eric Wilson
Memorial Day by Vince Flynn (Hardcover)
The Fireman’s Fair by Josephine Humphreys (Hardcover)


New Book Group #71 March 10, 2017
Mysteries and Thrillers
SINGLES:
There Was A Little Girl by Ed McBain (Audio Cassettes)

New Book Group #70 January 27, 2017
Thought I’d share some romances for February:
SINGLES:
Kissed by Shadows (Get Connected Romances) by Jane Feather
Love's Brazen Fire by Betina Krahn



New Book Group #69 November 18, 2016

Some books for Christmas: 
SINGLES:
Jingle Bell Blessings by Bonnie K. Winn
Snowbound with Mr. Right by Judy Christenberry


New Book Group #68 October 28, 2016
SINGLES:
Plan of Attack by Dan Brown


New Book Group #67 September 9, 2016

(*Three more very old books from my Gothics box.)
SINGLES:
*The Man in the Garden by Paule Mason (1969 - yellowed)


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.)
SINGLES:
*Maggie – Her Marriage by Taylor Caldwell (1953 very old, yellowed pages, some stain damage doesn't effect reading)
Fire Dancer by Ann Maxwell


New Book Group #65 April 29, 2016

SINGLES:
The Champion by Heather Grothaus


New Book Group #64 March 4, 2016
SINGLES:
First Things First by Stephen R. Covey- Audio Cassette

New Book Group #63 January 22, 2016 -- All Gone

New Book Group #62 November 6, 2015 -- All Gone

New Book Group #61 October 30, 2015 -- All Gone

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

SINGLES:
The Shadowing by Joan Overfield
Trilogy Of Mysteries Audio Book Shadow Prey, There Was A Little Girl, Smokescreen Audio Cassettes (NOT CDs)

New Book Group #59 July 31, 2015 -- All Gone

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 -- All Gone

BOX 4 2015 (reboxed from Boxes 47-53)

The Hidden Truth of Cytech's Randall Forty by Vickie Kennedy
Jezebel by Katherine Sutcliff
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)
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
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)

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 seven years I have posted 68 groups of 16 (1,088) books to find new homes! (as of November 4, 2016).

I am happy to say that so far about 1,086+ 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: Blink by K.L. Slater

This is a thriller with a well laid plot and good twists.

Blink
A psychological thriller with a killer twist you'll never forget
by K.L. Slater

File Size: 1463 KB
Print Length: 328 pages
Publisher: Bookouture (February 16, 2017)
ASIN: B01NBF30MU
Genre: Psychological Thriller
My Rating: 4.0 of 5.0

What if the person you love most in the world was in terrible danger … because of you?
Three years ago, Toni’s five-year-old daughter Evie disappeared after leaving school. The police have never been able to find her. There were no witnesses, no CCTV, no trace.
But Toni believes her daughter is alive. And as she begins to silently piece together her memories, the full story of the past begins to reveal itself, and a devastating truth.
Toni’s mind is trapped in a world of silence, her only chance to save herself is to manage the impossible. She must find a way to make herself heard. She must find her daughter.
A compelling, gripping thriller with a breathtaking twist that will keep you awake until the early hours. Perfect for fans of The Girl on the Train, Behind Closed Doors and The Sister.

Review:
This story has an unusual pattern as a primary character is in a coma. She is alive inside but unable to let the doctors know that she is alive and trying to communicate. No one knows who she is but she can think; so she thinks about the history of what happened and why beautiful Evie disappeared.

Toni lost her husband to a war accident when their daughter, Evie, was only three and half years old. Toni slowly lost all their and her friends over the next eighteen months. She finally has moved to a small house in her mother’s neighborhood. Mum has been a big help even if that help sometimes seems intrusive. But Toni knows she is struggling and needs the help of her mum and maybe more. She is glad that Evie will be starting school soon and Toni decides she needs to find a job to help pay for the bills that have been piling up.

Harriet, who will be working with Evie in school, has stopped by to meet Toni. Harriet and mum don’t quite see eye to eye, and they both are clearly seeking to exercise control.

Toni is lucky to find a job but now she must deal with a resentful, insecure and jealous boss as well as coping with the opposition of her mother. Adding to her stress is the fact that Evie, picked up from her first day at school by Mum, has come home unhappy and unwilling to talk about it. After just a short time Evie disappears and three years later the story picks up with the coma patient.

The backstory is told through what appear to be memories of the coma patient as well as Toni’s point of view. And occasionally a journal entry by a ‘watcher’. There is a long section that covers day to day activity, introducing the characters who have contact with Toni and Evie. This got to be a bit drawn out for me as I was ready for the story to move on. When it finally gets to the crisis there are some twists that had me looking back at the beginning to see what clues I missed and noting the intentional misdirections.

The author lays out a good plot that includes at least three potential threats. The story has trauma, madness, greed and other motives revealed near the end. It had me shaking my head, wincing at behaviors, and shuddering at deliberate bullying and cruelties. I can recommend this to readers who like family drama with strong suspense.

I received this through NetGalley. It qualifies for my NetGalley Challenge.

Some Awesome Giveaways!

HURRY - these end 7/30 and 7/31

GET 30 FREE DYSTOPIAN NOVELS!

[Please Note - this link will take you to the giveaway using a url that will give me more entries so if you are interested and willing, I appreciate using these urls. Thanks!]
Fantastic Voyage eReader Giveaway!
Giveaway Ends July 30, 2017 11:00 pm UTC

[Please Note - this link will take you to the giveaway using a url that will give me more entries so if you are interested and willing, I appreciate your using these urls. Thanks!]
Limitless Worlds Sci-fi Giveaway
Giveaway Ends July 31, 2017 11:45 pm PDT

[Please Note - this link will take you to the giveaway using a url that will give me more entries so if you are interested and willing, I appreciate your using these urls. Thanks!]
Ultimate Paperback Giveaway!
Giveaway Ends July 31, 2017 11:45 pm UTC

Audible Review: The Curse of Tenth Grave: A Novel by Darynda Jones

This series is fun listening, although this one got a bit edgy for my tastes.
The Curse of Tenth Grave: A Novel
Written by: Darynda Jones
Narrated by: Lorelei King

Length: 10 hrs and 40 mins
Series: Charley Davidson, Book 10
Unabridged Audiobook
Release Date:06-28-16
Publisher: Macmillan Audio
Genre: Mystery, Paranormal
My Rating: 4.0 of 5.0

Publisher's Summary
"If one door closes and another one opens, your house is probably haunted." (Bumper sticker)
As a part-time PI and full-time grim reaper, Charley Davidson has asked a lot of questions throughout her life: Why can I see dead people? Who is the hot supernatural entity following me? How do I get gum out of my sister's hair before she wakes up? But "how do I trap not one malevolent god but three?" was never among them. Until now. And since those gods are on earth to kill her daughter, she has little choice but to track them down, trap them, and cast them from this dimension.
There's just one problem. One of the three stole her heart a very long time ago. Can the Razer, a god of absolute death and destruction, change his omniscient spots, or will his allegiances lie with his brothers?
Those are just a few of the questions Charley must answer, and quick. Add to that a homeless girl running for her life, an innocent man who's been charged with murdering the daughter of a degenerate gambler, and a pendant made from god glass that has the entire supernatural world in an uproar, and Charley has her hands full. If she can manage to take care of the whole world-destroying gods thing, we're saved. If not, well...
©2016 Darynda Jones (P)2016 Macmillan Audio

Review:
I enjoy Charley’s intense, sassy character and the smokin’ (in more ways than one) chemistry between Reyes and her. This episode starts with tension between them as Charley has found out secrets about Reyes and he seems to be keeping secrets from her too. Word that their daughter “Beep” (Elwyn) is in danger doesn’t help when it sends Charley into a murderous panic.

Meanwhile Charley has been called in to consult on a murder case by none other than the prosecuting attorney (PA). Although all the very bloody evidence points to the accused, the PA is sure he isn’t guilty and he will do his best to get the man off the charges. That means he needs Charley’s to 'do her thing' and find the real murderer.

As Charley spots a young girl who is hiding on the streets. This one isn’t a ghost but she might become one if Charley can’t protect her from what appears to be a curse -- or ill deeds -- at a local children’s home where children are dying in unreasonable numbers.

As usual Ms. Jones skillfully weaves three lines of ‘mystery’ at a time. Clues and dangers keep Charley moving at a fast pace. The overall story moves forward with some sorrow and rage that could tear things apart. I like how Ms. Jones pulls in the secondary characters (Osh, Garret, Rocket, Agent Carson, Artemis and others) so they each get some reader time. And I love the fun memes/bumper stickers and quotes that start each chapter.

What I didn’t care for in this episode was some foul language, some crudeness and almost eroticism (one review even describes it as "erotic romance"). Although those elements make me wince, what I really found most difficult was an expressed irreverence for Jehovah. I know it is fantasy and probably not meant to be demeaning, but anything that belittles my God hurts my spirit. It makes me wonder if the series is worth continuing. I understand the series is to end at book 13 so I might push through but sadly not with the same enthusiasm as the early books.

Audio Notes: I can’t praise Lorelei King’s narration enough. She has helped to make these characters come alive and I love listening to her performance. It is an awesome experience (when not jarred by the issues that bothered me).

I pulled this in from my Audible TBR Shelf for Mount TBR, Audible Challenge and "C" in Alphabet Challenge.

My Reviews for Books 1 through 9 can be found through THIS LINK.

Sunday Post July 23, 2017/It's Monday! What are You Reading? Plus Mailbox Monday July 24, 2017

I am linking with Sunday Post at Caffeinated Book Reviewer.

It's Monday! What Are You Reading now at The Book Date.
Thank you to Sheila for the years that she handled this meme.
Thank you to Kathryn for taking up the baton.

What Are You Reading, is where we gather to share what we have read this past week and what we plan to read this week. It is a great way to network with other bloggers, see some wonderful blogs, and put new titles on your reading list.

This was another busy and mostly productive week. So much to do - sometimes I feel like a hamster in one of those circle wheels.

Reading was nice. I finished three books: two ebooks and one audio book. I posted three reviews along with all of my usual memes.

I visited about 28 blogs last week.
Shout out this week is to Readerbuzz a long time blogger; eclectic reader and traveler.
Thank you to all the nice people who visit me.

These were last week's posts:

• Sunday Post July 16, 2017/It's Monday! What are You Reading? Plus Mailbox Monday July 17, 2017.

• PrintT- Tour Book Review: Poetry and Ponderings by Diamante Lavendar; Poetry, Inspirational; my rating 5.0.

• Martha's Bookshelf***Friday Pick Giveaway July 21, 2017. Open Worldwide. Ending 7/27/2017.

• ATBR- Audible Book Review: The Days of Noah: Book One: Conspiracy by Mark Goodwin; Sci Fi, Conspiracy, Chrisitian; my rating 4.25.

• Sharing Beyond Books #312 Comment Giveaway July 22, 2017. Open Worldwide. Ending 7/29/2017.

• eNG- Book Review: Wild Horse Springs (Ransom Canyon) by Jodi Thomas; Contemporary, Small Town Romance, Mystery; my rating 4.25.

• Sunday Words of Encouragement July 23, 2017.

Finished Reading:

1. eBook/Kindle (NG-Tour)

Blink
A psychological thriller with a killer twist you'll never forget
by K.L. Slater
This is interesting suspense;
received from NetGalley.
Click on book title for full description.

2. Audible/MP3 (TBR)

Into the Black: Odyssey One
Written by: Evan Currie
Narrated by: Benjamin L. Darcie
Length: 14 hrs and 55 mins
This is a solid military space, first contact listen. 
From my Audible TBR shelves.
Click on book title for full description.

3. eBook/Kindle (PUYB)

The Duke needs a Wife: The Belles of Bath
by Katy Walters
This is okay but 
a little gritty for my taste in historic romance. 
I received this from Pump Up Your Book 
Campaign for review before 8/3.
Click on book title for full description.

Currently Reading:
1. Audible/MP3 (TBR)

The Pursuit of God
Written by: A. W. Tozer
Narrated by: Mark Moseley
Length: 3 hrs and 17 mins
I am enjoying this classic that exhorts a deeper walk. This is from my Audible TBR shelves.
Publisher's Summary
During a train trip from Chicago to Texas in the late 1940s, A.W. Tozer began to write The Pursuit of God. He wrote all night, and when the train arrived at his destination, the rough draft was done. The depth of this book has made it an enduring favorite.
(P)2012 Audible, Inc.

2. eBook/Kindle

Jeopardy in July: A Jamie Quinn Mystery (Jamie Quinn Cozy Mystery Book 5)
by Barbara Venkataraman
I will start this 7/23;
received from the author.
Click on book title for full description.

3. Audio/MP3 (TBR)

Jackaby
Written by: William Ritter
Narrated by: Nicola Barber
Length: 7 hrs and 21 mins
This is another TBR audible to serve as "J" for Alphabet Challenge.
Publisher's Summary
Newly arrived in New Fiddleham, New England, 1890, and in need of a job, Abigail Rook meets R. F. Jackaby, an investigator of the unexplained with a keen eye for the extraordinary - including the ability to see supernatural beings. Abigail has a gift for noticing ordinary but important details, which makes her perfect for the position of Jackaby’s assistant.
On her first day, Abigail finds herself in the midst of a thrilling case: A serial killer is on the loose. The police are convinced it’s an ordinary villain, but Jackaby is certain the foul deeds are the work of the kind of creature whose very existence the local police seem adamant to deny.
While Abigail finds herself drawn to Jackaby’s keen intelligence and his sensitivity to phenomena others barely perceive, her feelings are confused by the presence of Charlie, a handsome young policeman willing to help Jackaby and Abigail on the case. But is Charlie’s offer a sincere desire to be of service, or is some darker motive at work.
©2014 Original material © 2014 R. William Ritter. Published by arrangement with Algonquin Young Readers, an imprint of Algonquin Books of Chapel Hill, a division of Workman Publishing, Inc. (P)2014 (p) 2014 HighBridge Company

4. eBook/Kindle (NG)

AFTERLIFE
by Marcus Sakey
I really enjoyed the Brillance Trilogy 
so I am interested in reading this one.
Received through NetGalley from Little Bird Publicity.
Soon to be a major motion picture from Imagine Entertainment and producers Ron Howard and Brian Grazer.
Between life and death lies an epic war, a relentless manhunt through two worlds…and an unforgettable love story.
The last thing FBI agent Will Brody remembers is the explosion—a thousand shards of glass surfing a lethal shock wave.
He wakes without a scratch.
The building is in ruins. His team is gone. Outside, Chicago is dark. Cars lie abandoned. No planes cross the sky. He’s relieved to spot other people—until he sees they’re carrying machetes.
Welcome to the afterlife.
Claire McCoy stands over the body of Will Brody. As head of an FBI task force, she hasn’t had a decent night’s sleep in weeks. A terrorist has claimed eighteen lives and thrown the nation into panic.
Against this horror, something reckless and beautiful happened. She fell in love…with Will Brody.
But the line between life and death is narrower than any of us suspect—and all that matters to Will and Claire is getting back to each other.
From the author of the million-copy bestselling Brilliance Trilogy comes a mind-bending thriller that explores our most haunting and fundamental question: What if death is just the beginning?

July 23, 2017 - I am half a day ahead in the One Year Bible; reading along with my husband and others from our church. I hope to take more time this year, staying on the day and listening to the companion commentary online.

Some of my reading time is going to a Wednesday night study we are doing called Freedom Course.

I completed three books and posted three reviews. I still have four reviews current and one for later release. I still need to add books at Goodreads and my latest reviews to Goodreads and Amazon or Audible.
I am still at 6 NetGalley Titles and 8 author titles in my queue.

We're working on two fiction books soon to add to 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 (yours truly).  
Warning: Mailbox Monday can lead to envy, toppling TBR piles and humongous wish lists.
I picked up one NetGalley book when I saw I was invited and had almost missed it.
I picked up one Audible daily deal and two Audibles with June Credits.
I purchased one $.99 Kindle title.
As usual, I picked up lots more free kindle titles as usual. (Note these are in my Amazon library, NOT on my Kindle until I download and transfer them.)

Are your mailbox and TBR piles blooming?

Review Titles

I was invited to read this (through NetGalley) by Little Bird Publishing.
 Thanks to FictionBooks for reminding me to get this.

AFTERLIFE
by Marcus Sakey
Between life and death lies an epic war, a relentless manhunt through two worlds…and an unforgettable love story.
See full description above under Current Reading.

Won

I won an Audio CD from Tantor Audio through Caffeinated Book Reviewer. Thank you.

A Murder in Time by Julie McElwain
When brilliant FBI agent Kendra Donovan stumbles back in time and finds herself in a 19th century English castle under threat from a vicious serial killer, she scrambles to solve the case before it takes her life―200 years before she was even born.
A Murder in Time is the first book in the Kendra Donovan Mysteries.

Purchased

I picked up one Audible Daily Deals and used my June credit selections:

The Chilbury Ladies' Choir
By: Jennifer Ryan
Narrator: Gabrielle Glaister, Laura Kirman, Imogen Wilde, Adjoa Andoh, Tom Clegg, Mike Grady
Duration: 11 hrs and 34 mins
(I have been wanting this since I saw it at Bookfan in March.)


In the After
By: Demitria Lunetta
Narrator: Julia Whelan
Duration: 9 hrs and 37 mins
This is a new post apocalyptic.

 
Daily Deal $3.95
Hunter
By: Mercedes Lackey
Narrator: Amy Landon
Duration: 11 hrs and 24 mins
I've enjoyed this author and this sounded good.

I have this print book for Ladies Book Club so I picked up the Kindle for $.99:
Critical Reaction: a novel
Todd M. Johnson 

Free

I picked up Week Thirteen SYNC Audio titles:
GONE: GONE SERIES, BOOK 1 by Michael Grant, Narrated by Kyle McCarley (Tantor Media)
THE ONE SAFE PLACE by Tania Unsworth, Narrated by Mark Turetsky (HighBridge Audio)

Here are five of my Free Kindle Picks: (the last three of these may still be free)

Morna's Legacy (Box Set #1): 
Scottish Time Travel Romances (Morna's Legacy Series)
Bethany Claire

The Zeta Grey War: New Recruits
D F Capps

Praying for Your Children: (The How to Pray Series)
Elmer Towns, David Earley

Fallen Pride: A Jesse McDermitt Novel (Caribbean Adventure Series Book 4)
Wayne Stinnett

Smolder
Desiree Douglas


I added 70 (ouch) free Kindle titles to my library this week. Titles found linked through Bookbub, Bookfun, Ereader News Today, Free Par-tay, Ignite Your Book, Inspired Reads, Pixel of Ink or Kindle ebooks.