Sunday Post April 29, 2018/It's Monday! What are You Reading? Plus Mailbox Monday April 30, 2018

I am linking with Sunday Post at Caffeinated Book Reviewer.

It's Monday! What Are You Reading now at The Book Date.

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 a good week. Wrapped up a trial on Monday; had a lunch meeting in Bay County on Tuesday and kept working the rest of the week with a few late nights.

Our weather is warming up this week: 60 at night but in the 80s during the night.

I had a good week reading and listening was pretty good. I finished five books total: 3 Audible titles, one print and one digital. I posted four reviews and my usual memes.

I only visited 22 blogs again last week.
Shout Out this week for Rose City Reader who always has unique books.
Thank you to all the nice people who visit me.

These were last week's posts:

• Sunday Post April 22, 2018/It's Monday! What are You Reading? Plus Mailbox Monday April 23, 2018.

• A2018Author- Audible Book Review and Tour Giveaway: Hunting in Bruges by E.J. Stevens; Paranormal, Urban Fantasy; my rating 4.0. ENDS 4/30.

• NGTBR- #NetGalley Review: Mind Game: A Novel (Eve Duncan) by Iris Johansen; Crime, Thriller, Woman Sleuth; my rating 4.0.

• Martha's Bookshelf***Friday Pick Giveaway April 27, 2018. Open Worldwide. Ending 5/3/2018.

• ATBR- Audible Book Review: Devil's Due: Destroyermen, Book 12, by Taylor Anderson; Alternate History, Sci Fi; my rating 4.5.

• 2018NG- #NetGalley Book Review: Out of the Box by Jemma Westing; Children, Crafts; my rating 4.5.

• Sunday Words of Encouragement April 29, 2018.

Finished Reading:
1. Audio/MP3 (TBR)

The Never Hero
The Chronicles of Jonathan Tibbs, Book 1
By: T. Ellery Hodges
Narrated by: Steven Barnett
Series: The Chronicles of Jonathan Tibbs, Book 1
Length: 12 hrs and 22 mins
I enjoyed this and plan to get book 2.
Source: Audible Credit Purchase 2015.
Click on book title for full description.

2. eBook/Kindle (NetGalley 2017)

Let There Be Light
by Dan Gordon and Sam Sorbo
I liked this and hope to see the movie.
Source: NetGalley 2017.
Click on book title for full description.

3. LBCPrint (TBR)

Know Your Bible: All 66 Books Explained and Applied
By: Paul Kent
This is a keeper resource for my shelf.
Source: 2017 Purchase at CBD.
Click on book title for full description.

4. Audible/Smartphone (2018)

Start with Why
How Great Leaders Inspire Everyone to Take Action
By: Simon Sinek
Narrated by: Simon Sinek
Length: 7 hrs and 18 mins
There is wisdom here I hope to use.
Source: Audible sale Purchase 2018.
Publisher's Summary
Click on book title for full description.

5. Audio/MP3 (TBR)

The Cold, Cold Ground
Detective Sean Duffy, Book 1
By: Adrian McKinty
Narrated by: Gerard Doyle
Series: Detective Sean Duffy Series, Book 1
Length: 10 hrs and 3 mins
I found the Irish history (1981) interesting in this gritty crime novel
Source: Audible Credit Purchase 2015.
Publisher's Summary
Adrian McKinty was born in Carrickfergus, Northern Ireland. He studied politics and philosophy at Oxford before moving to America in the early 1990s. Living first in Harlem, he found employment as a construction worker, barman, and bookstore clerk. In 2000 he moved to Denver to become a high school English teacher and it was there that he began writing fiction.
In 2009 he moved to Melbourne, Australia, with his wife and two children. His first full-length novel, Dead I Well May Be, was short-listed for the 2004 Ian Fleming Steel Dagger Award and its sequel, The Dead Yard, was selected as one of the twelve best novels of the year by Publishers Weekly.
In 2008 his debut young adult novel, The Lighthouse Land, was short-listed for the 2008 Young Hoosier Award and the 2008 Beehive Award. The final novel in the Dead trilogy, The Bloomsday Dead, was long-listed for the 2009 World Book Day Award.
In 2011 Falling Glass was an Audible.com Best Thriller.
©2012 Adrian McKinty (P)2012 Blackstone Audio, Inc.

Currently Reading:

1. eBook/Kindle (NetGalley 2017)

The Hills of Mare Imbrium
by Carleton Chinner
I'm a quarter of the way in and
interested where it will go.
Source: NetGalley 2017.
Click on book title for full description.

2. Audible/Smartphone (2018)

Aspire
By: Kevin Hall
Narrator: Patrick Lawlor
Duration: 5 hrs and 32 mins
I am looking forward to listening to this positive work.
Source: Audible 2018 sale purchase.
Click on book title for full description.

3. Audio/MP3 (TBR)

NPCs
By: Drew Hayes
Narrated by: Roger Wayne
Series: Spells, Swords, & Stealth, Book 1
Length: 7 hrs and 50 mins
I just started this and I think it will be fun.
Source: 2017 Audible Credit Purchase.
Publisher's Summary
What happens when the haggling is done and the shops are closed? When the quest has been given, the steeds saddled, and the adventurers are off to their next encounter? They keep the world running, the food cooked, and the horses shoed, yet what adventurer has ever spared a thought or concern for the Non-Player Characters?In the town of Maplebark, four such NPCs settle in for a night of actively ignoring the adventurers drinking in the tavern when things go quickly and fatally awry. Once the dust settles, these four find themselves faced with an impossible choice: pretend to be adventurers undertaking a task of near-certain death or see their town and loved ones destroyed. Armed only with salvaged equipment, second-hand knowledge, and a secret that could get them killed, it will take all manner of miracles if they hope to pull off their charade. And even if they succeed, the deadliest part of their journey may well be what awaits them at its end.
©2014 Andrew Hayes (P)2014 Tantor

4. LBCPrint (TBR)

A Simple Change, Home to Amana Series #2
By: Judith Miller
This is our April book for Ladies Book Club to be discussed in May.
Source: Christianbook.com on sale.
Product Description
Joining the communal society of the Amana Colonies isn't what Jancey Rhoder planned for her future, but when unforeseen circumstances force her family to make some difficult decisions, she chooses to give up her teaching position in a Kansas City orphanage and move with her parents to Iowa.
Her besotted suitor, Nathan Woodward, isn't at all happy about the move and is determined to get Jancey to change her mind. And Jancey herself isn't sure what she's gotten herself into when the simple life of the Amana Colonies means she'll be assigned a job and may have to give up teaching for good. Will Nathan woo her back to the city, or will she be forever changed by the mysterious events and new relationships that await her in the quiet villages of the Amana Colonies--and decide to make this unique place her forever home?

April 29, 2018 - I continue on track with my morning reading the One Year Bible plan on my smartphone. It is a great way to start my day and I share the joy of the word with other friends on the YouVersion Bible App. Hubby and I still share in discussion although we are reading slightly different places. You can check out audio of the One Year Bible Plan on the companion commentary online.

I completed 5 books and posted 4 reviews. I am up to date with the 5 current reviews.
I added a fourteen reviews to  Goodreads, Amazon and Audible, but still have as many more to link up.
My NetGalley shelf was at 8 but I added 2 so now at 10. I still have one committed author title in queue and many through InstaFreebie. I have more new author requests but still haven't replied.

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 two NetGalley titles.
I picked up one Audible daily deal titles and no Kindle deals this week.
I picked up nine free kindle titles through Amazon Crossing for World Book Day (4/24).
I also picked up some 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

Two titles from NetGalley:

Shelved Under Murder A Blue Ridge Library Mystery
by Victoria Gilbert
"Autumn leaves aren’t the only things falling in the historic Virginia village of Taylorsford—so are some cherished memories, and a few bodies."

Once Upon a Heartbreak: A feel-good, heartwarming romance (Blame It On New York)

by Cassie Rocca

"Is true love really out there? A hilarious, heartwarming romance: perfect for the fans of Jo Watson, Debbie Johnson and Holly Martin."

Won

NONE

Purchased

Audible Purchase Daily Deal:
4/24/18 Daily Deal $4.95

The Monster Hunter Files
By: Larry Correia, Jim Butcher, Faith Hunter, Jonathan Maberry
Narrated by: Oliver Wyman, Khristine Hvam, Bailey Carr
Length: 13 hrs and 50 mins
I like this series and this looks like a good/fun anthology.

Free

I added only 23 free titles to my Kindle library this week. (I was just too tired again early in the week to download titles.) 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 April 29, 2018

We had a nice Sunday School time and then enjoyed worship and communion before Pastor gave his sermon. The music and message tied with the SS lesson which is always affirming of God’s word and anointing.

This was Pastor’s third message on Relationslips.
First there was “I owe you” – guilt. The remedy is confession.
Then “You owe me” – anger. The remedy is forgiveness.
Today is “I owe me” – greed. The remedy is generosity.

What is the currency that is important to you? Your “I owe me” justification? It might be time, possessions, even affection. It usually stems from a fear of lacking or going without.
It is our area of selfishness – which we all have is some form. It is not ambition, nor goals, nor success. It is a Heart issue, not an economic or financial issue. The “I owe me”, “I deserve it” attitude is cultivated in our world. Marketing tells us to indulge ourselves; have it our way; we deserve this or that.

Point: Greed is born out of the fear we won't have enough. Generosity overcomes greed.

Jesus says “Watch out! Be on your guard against all kinds of greed; life does not consist in an abundance of possessions.” Luke 12:13-21. The point is that we are not to hoard what we have but to be ‘rich toward God’ (v. 21).
Instead of trying to get more, our relationship with God should be first in our lives.
True Godliness with contentment is itself great wealth. 1 Timothy 6:6-9.

Greed leaves little room for contentment and joy. Satisfaction is not achievable as man always wants more. Luke 12:29-31.
Learn to trust that God will give you all you need. The remedy for greed is generosity.
Spend less, give more. After all, everything you have comes from and belongs to God, doesn’t it? 1 Chronicles 29:10-16.

God gives and gives and gives. We need to share the blessings.
Whatever we protect the most, that is where we need to be more generous.
What would a community look like if a church showed amazing generosity?

This song seems to fit today.

Verses for Today:
1 Chronicles 29:14-16 NIV
14 “But who am I, and who are my people, that we should be able to give as generously as this? Everything comes from you, and we have given you only what comes from your hand. 15 We are foreigners and strangers in your sight, as were all our ancestors. Our days on earth are like a shadow, without hope. 16 Lord our God, all this abundance that we have provided for building you a temple for your Holy Name comes from your hand, and all of it belongs to you.

Lord help me to share my blessings every day.

#NetGalley Book Review: Out of the Box by Jemma Westing

This looks like great fun with imaginative projects for kids.

Out of the Box
by Jemma Westing

Age Range: 7 - 10 years
Grade Level: 2 - 5
Lexile Measure: 0870 (What's this?)
Hardcover: 144 pages
Publisher: DK Children (April 18, 2017)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 1465458964
Genre: Children, Crafts
My Rating: 4.5 of 5.0

Twenty-five interactive cardboard model projects that engage kids' creativity and "out of the box" thinking skills through hands-on learning and the application of science-based principles.
Kids can bring old cardboard to life and build recycled creations they can play with, sit in, and wear.
Supporting STEAM education initiatives and the Maker Movement, Out of the Box includes 25 interactive cardboard model projects to inspire kids' creativity through engaged and hands-on learning, and, as the founder of Maker Faire Dale Dougherty says, "to realize with their hands what they can imagine in their minds."
From small-scale gifts to large constructions, author and award-winning paper engineer Jemma Westing uses clear, step-by-step instructions to show kids how to make dinosaurs, masks, race cars, and so much more, and inspirational images encourage them to make their own unique models when they are feeling more confident. The projects utilize only recycled materials, including cardboard rolls and boxes, so all the supplies should be easy to find right at home.
Build something brilliant with Out of the Box. The possibilities are endless!

Review:
This is a fun resource for crafts made from boxes and recycled materials. The book starts with tools that may be needed and techniques for cutting, curling, taping and gluing. It closes with templates for many of the projects.

There are smaller items like tube owls, butterflies, flowers and lizards to larger items like outdoor games such as Ring Toss Challenge and Feed the Monster games. There are Racing Rabbits and an alternate version for Penguin Skate race. There are fun items to wear like helmets, masks and body costumes. There are settings like a play theater, aquariums, castles and a city. Finally, there is a large geodesic den to serve as a clubhouse and an ambitious project to build a recycled racer.

The projects show the difficulty range as easy, medium or hard. Each project ends with an extra tip to try another version or add on. Although I suspect that working with cardboard may not be as easy as this makes it look, this clearly gives a chance to encourage the imagination of young people with crafts, variations and colors! I like that it uses recycled materials. If I was home with children I would give this a try.

Source: NetGalley 2018. This adds to my NetGalley and Alphabet Challenge.

Audible Book Review: Devil's Due: Destroyermen, Book 12, by Taylor Anderson

I really enjoy this series!
Devil’s Due
Destroyermen, Book 12
By: Taylor Anderson
Narrated by: William Dufris

Series: Destroyermen, Book 12
Length: 19 hrs and 22 mins
Unabridged Audiobook
Release date: 06-13-17
Language: English
Publisher: Tantor Audio
Genre: Alternate History, Sci Fi
My Rating: 4.5 of 5.0

Publisher's Summary
Taylor Anderson continues his powerful New York Times best-selling series of alternate history and military strategy, as the conflict is about to become terrifyingly personal....
Captain Matt Reddy and the crew of the USS Walker have been fighting for their lives ever since their ship was swept from the Pacific to another world and they became embroiled in a deadly conflict between their Lemurian allies and the ravening Grik. But things are about to get worse. With Reddy's family and allies held prisoner by the mad General Kurokawa, the mysterious League and evil Dominion plotting schemes of their own, and the Grik trying to build their swarm and concentrate power, Reddy faces danger on all sides. Although desperate to confront Kurokawa, Captain Reddy fears he's subordinating the war effort for personal reasons. But Kurokawa is too dangerous to be left alone. With the mighty League battleship Savoie at his command, he plots a terrible vengeance against Reddy and his tiny, battered destroyer. The stage is set for a devastating cataclysm, and Reddy and his allies will have to risk everything to protect what they hold dear.
©2017 Taylor Anderson (P)2017 Tantor

Review:
I was happy to be back in this alternate world with Captain Matt Reddy and his brave WWII American crew and new allies. The Alliance forces are spread out facing different enemies. In the last book, Captain Reddy’s wife, Sandra, and a handful of Alliance officials, were kidnapped by the mysterious League of Tripoli. They were turned over to become prisoners of the arch enemy, Japanese General Kurokawa, who has allied with the enemy Grik.

Reddy is sure they are facing a major battle with the Grik. But first Reddy feels he must face Kurokawa who has been given the massive League battleship, the Savoie, Reddy fears the threat posed by that ship in the hands of Kurokawa. Reddy will make a move even though it means putting his own wife in danger.

Brash and bold Silva thinks he has a way to sneak into Kurokawa’s camp to spy the land and locate the prisoners. Meanwhile, Commander Greg Garrett on USS Donaghey is far out in the Mid Atlantic but still manages adventures as the ship encounters a stronger Dom ship.

There are exciting air battles (especially an early reconnaissance flight) as well as sea battles. I enjoyed following the various crews, some facing the Grik and others facing the Dominion. I also enjoyed the scenes with the enemy Grik making their plans.

This is another engaging episode in this fast-paced war adventure series. I love the down to earth characters highlighted in their various dangerous settings. Anderson’s creativity is wonderfully woven in the good action. I also like the character’s contemplation of faith elements introduced into the alternate world.

I picked this up and finished the listen within three days. It was hard to put down. I recommend this series to readers who enjoy alternate history and new species.

Audio Notes: William Dufris continues his wonderful narration of this series and these engaging characters. I love listening to the audio version and am eagerly waiting for the next book, River of Bones.

My Reviews for the Destroyermen Series
Into the Storm -- guess I didn't write a review.

Crusade 4.5 

Maelstrom 4.5

Distant Thunders  4.75

Rising Tides 5.0

Firestorm 4.25

Iron Gray Sea  4.25

Storm Surge 4.5

Deadly Shores  4.75
Straits of Hell: Destroyermen, Book 10 5.0
Blood in the Water: Destroyermen, Book 11 4.5

Source: 2017 Audible Credit Purchase. This fits my 2018TBR and Audiobook Challenges.

Martha's Bookshelf***Friday Pick Giveaway April 27, 2018

Happy Friday! 

I have a picture of a new book group... I hope to make time this Saturday to list them.

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 April 20 Pick. There were no automatic wins again this week. Automatic wins are those who requested the book four times without other people asking for that book during those weeks. There were no titles blocked.

CONGRATULATIONS
to Random.org picked Winners from April 20 Pick:
NIKKI gets a GC and
LLEHN gets a GC.

All winners please fill in the Winner's Acceptance Form or email me to confirm your win, send your snail mail address information and let me know if you would like bookmarks - sensual, sexy or sweet bookmarks. {The form is new because Google changed their forms and the old one wasn't letting me print out the responses.}

So many lovely spring books!
Image found at Bookish.

New Book Group #78 April 27, 2018

New Book Group #77 February 16, 2018
I thought I would look for some 'Springish' titles but that didn't happen. Hope someone finds a title or two you like.

PAIRS
Betty Neals: Tabitha by Moonlight and Fate Takes a Hand
Nora Robert: Hot Ice (spine creased) and Sanctuary
SINGLES:
My Lord Conqueror by Samantha James
Surrender by Pamela Clare
Dessert Rogue by Suzanne Simmons
The Rose and the Shield by Elaine Barrieri
Hannah’s Courtship by Emma Miller
Someone to Watch Over Me by Judith McNaught
Big Stone Gap by Adriana Trigiani
Heroes Are My Weakness by Susan Elizabeth Phillips
A Husband’s Wicked Ways by Jane Feather
Hot on Her Heels by Susan Mallery
Indigo Blue by Catherine Anderson
Between the Devil and Desire (Scoundrels of St. James Book 2) by Lorraine Heath (hardback)


New Book Group #76 November 3, 2017
21 books remain of the original 37:

I finally Have them Listed!
Boots & Booties by Kristine Rolofson
Saucer the Conquest by Stephen Coonts
Echo Burning by Lee Child
The Scorpion Seducer by Bonnie Vanak
Hell On Earth by David L. Porter
Tempted All Night by Liz Carlyle
Day of the Dead by J.A. Jance
White Night by Jim Butcher
Five Gold Rings Anthology Constance O’Banyon and three others
Riders of the Purple Sage by Zane Grey
The Glimpses of the Moon by Edith Wharton
Depraved Heart by Patricia Cornwell
Crisscross by Harmon Henkin
Wizard’s Daughter by Catherine Coulter
Pearl Beyond Price by Claire Delacroix
Maelstrom by Anne McCaffrey
The Wedding by Nicholas Sparks
The Wicked Wyckerly by Patricia Rice
Inhuman Condition by Clive Barker
Night Whispers by Judith McNaught
101 Commonsense Rules for the Office by John R. Brinkerhoff

 THESE BOOKS CHOSEN/WON ARE THE ONES STRICKEN HERE:
Finger Licken' Fifteen
How to Tame a Highland Warrior
The Texan
Total Control
Atlantis Found
Stephanie Laurens Pair
Desperado 
Rebellious Desires 
Forget Me Not 
The Eighth Commandment
Ghost Riders
The Manning Brides by Debbie Macomber 
Shadow Music 
Corbin's Fancy 
Hawk's Lady

This shelf of 35 books are what is left from Groups #1 (11/27/09) through Group #75 September 29, 2017

(Title list reads left at bottom to right at top - 14 titles.)
Rehabilitation
Secret Blessing
Named of the Dragon
Daring
Aunt Erma's Cope Book
JoAnn Ross: Confessions
The Eye of the World by Robert Jordan
The New Birth Order Book by Dr. Kevin Leman
A Kiss Before Dawn by Kimberly Logan
The Fireman’s Fair by Josephine Humphreys (Hardcover)
Bound by Destiny by Rayka Mennen
Rainbow Mars by Larry Niven
There Was A Little Girl by Ed McBain (Audio Cassettes)
Love's Brazen Fire by Betina Krahn 

(Title list reads left at bottom to right at top - 21 titles.)
Plan of Attack by Dan Brown
(*Three more very old books from my Gothics box.)
*The Man in the Garden by Paule Mason (1969 - yellowed)
Fire Dancer by Ann Maxwell
*Four books are very old; pulled from a box of gothic novels I found.
*Maggie – Her Marriage by Taylor Caldwell (1953 very old, yellowed pages, some stain damage doesn't effect reading)
First Things First by Stephen R. Covey- Audio Cassette
Trilogy Of Mysteries Audio Book Shadow Prey, There Was A Little Girl, Smokescreen Audio Cassettes (NOT CDs)
Raintree Haunted by Linda Winstead Jones (spine creases)
The Shadowing by Joan Overfield
The Sweetheart Dance by Patti Ann Colt
BOX 4 2015 (reboxed from Boxes 47-53)
Undateable by Ellen Rakieten & Anne Coyle
Jezebel by Katherine Sutcliff
The Hidden Truth of Cytech's Randall Forty by Vickie Kennedy
Breakfast in Bed by Sandra Brown - Audio Cassette Tapes (link is for mass media version)
BOX 3 2015 (reboxed from Boxes 39- 47)
Shetland Summer by Janet Lynnford
BOX 2 2015 (reboxed from Boxes 24- 38)
The Trailsman: Texas Lead Slingers by Jon Sharpe
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
An Honorable Man by Rosemary Rogers (spine creases)
The Willful Widow by Valerie King (spine wear)
Foundation (Foundation Novels) by Isaac Asimov
BOX #1 2015 (reboxed from Boxes 1- 23)
Ghost Writer (Shivers #3) by M.D. Spenser
Alien Chronicles - The Crimson Claw by Deborah Chester

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 EIGHT years I have posted 75 groups of 16 (1,200) books to find new homes! (as of November 2, 2017).

I am happy to say that so far about 1,157+books have found new homes through this feature! YAY. [A month or so ago I posted I had reached 2000 books given away. As I calculated the numbers 11/2/17 I realized that had to be an error. I realized I went from 1098 to 2001 instead of 1101. Guess I was tired; sorry for the error.] 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!

#NetGalley Review: Mind Game: A Novel (Eve Duncan) by Iris Johansen

The strong suspense and sharp romantic tension reminds me why I enjoy this author.

Mind Game: A Novel (Eve Duncan)
by Iris Johansen

File Size: 4763 KB
Print Length: 373 pages
Page Numbers Source ISBN: 1250075858
Publisher: St. Martin's Press (October 24, 2017)
ASIN: B06Y16RFM6
Genre: Crime, Thriller, Woman Sleuth
My Rating: 4.25 of 5.0

Mind Game takes Jane MacGuire back to Scotland where she continues her search for the treasure she’s been chasing for years. But now she’s being plagued by dreams of a girl in danger. Who is this girl, and what is she trying to tell Jane? And will Jane figure it out before it’s too late—for her and the mysterious young woman? Things are further complicated when Seth Caleb comes back into Jane’s life. This time he’s the one in trouble, and Jane will find herself pulled unexpectedly into his world as she fights to save him.
With the adventure, intrigue, and explosive energy that Iris Johansen fans love, Mind Game is a high-octane thriller that readers won’t be able to put down.

Review:
Jane MacGuire is a strong young lady and a gifted artist. Not only can she draw what she sees, she can also draw what she dreams. For years she had dreams about an ancient Roman woman, Cira. Now they are close to finding Cira’s hidden treasure back in Scotland with her friends.

Recently Jane has had new dreams – a young woman in trouble is reaching out to her. Jane is just the type of person who must try to help no matter the danger.

Seth Caleb is a dark, mysterious man who has a strange impact on Jane. She has tried to keep him at a distance but is pretty sure that at some point they will collide, if not combust. Seth is on hand to help with the treasure hunting. He quickly realizes that Jane is disturbed by something and he wants to find out what so he can help her. The mystery deepens as it becomes clear that the girl is reaching out to Jane because of Seth.

I admit that it has been quite a few years since I have read Iris Johansen and the Eve Duncan series. I was immediately drawn by the characters even as I Seth reminded me of an earlier dark, mysterious and sexy character - Sean Galen in The Search. Johansen does a wonderful job of building sexual tension leading to a scene that is tasteful and adds to rather than distracts from the mystery plot.

The plot is twisted with dark skills and people who want to control and use the skills for their own greed and evil plans. The story moves at a good pace. I did roll my eyes a few times as Jane walks herself into danger, but it rather fits her headstrong character. I enjoyed how Eve and Joe were a supportive part of the story.

I collected and read this author’s titles from 1990 through 2008 which took me through Book 7 in the Eve Duncan series. (I didn’t stop because I didn’t like them, I just got busy with blogging and reading many new authors. I was glad to enjoy an older favorite author.) Having read the early books in the series helped me to know these characters better although the author does give some introductory background on the connections and personalities. I am inclined to think this would read fine if picked up as a stand-alone. I am pleased to find that Ms. Johansen has not lost her knack at writing strongly engaging thriller with nice romantic tension. I recommend this author, the series and this book.

Source: NetGalley 2017. This qualifies for 2018TBR, NetGalley and Alphabet Challenges.

Audible Book Review and Tour Giveaway: Hunting in Bruges by E.J. Stevens

This is a fun, action listen.
Hunting in Bruges: Hunters' Guild, Book 1
by E.J. Stevens
Narrator: Melanie A. Mason, Anthony Bowling

Length: 7 hrs and 10 mins
Unabridged Audiobook
Release date: 04-03-18
Language: English
Publisher: Sacred Oaks Press
Genre: Paranormal, Urban Fantasy
My Rating: 4.0 of 5.0

Publisher's Summary
Finalist for the 2017 Raven Award for best urban fantasy.
The only thing worse than being a hunter in the fae-ridden city of Harborsmouth, is hunting vampires in Bruges.
The medieval city of Bruges is quaint, but the local Hunters' Guild is understaffed, the canals are choked with dead bodies, and there's no shortage of supernatural predators as likely suspects.
On second thought, maybe Bruges isn't so bad after all.
With a desire to prove herself, protect the innocent, and advance within the ranks of the Hunters' Guild, Jenna Lehane hits the cobbled streets of Bruges with blades at the ready. Someone, or something, is murdering tourists and dumping their bodies in the city's scenic canals. With the help of a mysterious stranger, Jenna begins to piece together clues that are dotted throughout the city like blood spatter.
Determined to stop the killings, Jenna delves into a bloody local history that only raises more questions - but some secrets are best left buried. Jenna must put her combat training to the test as she struggles to unearth the truth about an ancient enemy.

Review:
The Harborsmouth Guild Hunter master has sent Jenna on assignment to Bruges. She suspects that the assignment to find a serial killer is a test and she plans to be up for the challenge. One of Jenna’s unique skills is seeing ghosts and she finds plenty in the medieval city. There are living – well maybe undead – killers to hunt too.

Jenna meets Ash, a dashing fellow, on the train. He is a bit strange but eagerly volunteers to show her around. Jenna discovers the local guild is short handed and has some severe member problems. The man left in charge doesn’t think women should be hunters and he is belittling and abusive. The witch member is drugged out, the archivist in the library is blind, one warrior is bomb happy and the doctor is surly, resentful and has no records of the autopsies to help Jenna’s investigation.

In spite of the difficulties Jenna heads out alone to scout out the previous murder sites. When she walks into a trap of deadly vampires, Jenna is glad that Ash shows up to protect her back. While dealing with rusalka, grindylow and swan maidens, in addition to the vampires, Jenna uncovers a plot by the vampires that could be even worse than the current killings. Jenna will have to rally the other hunters and use her smarts as well as her combat skills if she wants to stop the plot and save the innocents.

Jenna is a friend of Ivy Granger and a character in the psychic detective stories. This spinoff introduces new characters, good and bad. I especially liked Ash and the blind archivist. Although Jenna is narrowly focused on saving everyone around her, I felt that she didn’t always think things through as expected. Still, I like how she rallied the hunters for battle. I enjoyed this spinoff with the fast pacing and consistent action. It is a good start to more adventures. I recommend this to readers who enjoy urban fantasy and monster challenges.

Audio Notes: I liked the alternating voices provided by Melanie A. Mason and Anthony Bowling. They both do a fine job of presenting different characters with personalities and emotional energy. The narration enhanced my enjoyment of the story.

Source: Author for Review and Giveaway Post. This qualifies for Audiobook Challenge and 2018 entry for Alphabet Challenge.

Start Listening Now

Audible
| Audible UK | Amazon

Learn more on Goodreads, Audible, and the author's website.  Keep reading for a chance to win a Hunting in Bruges prize pack.

Want more fun? Take a trip to Bruges with monster hunter Jenna Lehane in this Hunting in Bruges animated book cover video. Watch a few times to find all of the effects!  Things to look for...

• Sword
• Jenna's hair
• Clock
• Jenna's arm and face
• Clouds
• Lights in Windows 

Did you find all of the special effects?

Audiobook Release Party Giveaway

Happy audiobook birthday to Hunting in Bruges! We're celebrating the audio release with a giveaway.

GIVEAWAY

Enter to win a Hunting in Bruges Prize Pack, including
a pen, custom earbuds, a Hunting in Bruges mini
poster signed by the author, and a Passport to the World of Ivy
Granger signed by the author and the audiobook narrators!
To enter, use the Rafflecopter form below.

This giveaway is open to the US/UK/CA.  Giveaway ends April 30, 2018 midnight EST.
a Rafflecopter giveaway

Sunday Post April 22, 2018/It's Monday! What are You Reading? Plus Mailbox Monday April 23, 2018

I am linking with Sunday Post at Caffeinated Book Reviewer.

It's Monday! What Are You Reading now at The Book Date.

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.

Heather and I headed out Sunday for a leadership conference which was fun and inspiring but took up half the week. I returned to a half day trial and then I had to man the office alone on Friday as two staff members were at our second office. I was pretty tired by Friday night.

Listening was pretty good but I didn't get to write reviews until I got home. I finished 2 Audible titles and one digital. I posted only two reviews, one with giveaway, and my usual memes.

I only visited 22 blogs last week with quick visits Tuesday and Wednesday.
Shout Out this week for The Infinite Curio featuring "books, photo, knitting, comics and other findings".
Thank you to all the nice people who visit me.

These were last week's posts:

• Sunday Post April 15, 2018/It's Monday! What are You Reading? Plus Mailbox Monday April 16, 2018.

• Martha's Bookshelf***Friday Pick Giveaway April 20, 2018. Open Worldwide. Ending 4/26/2018.

• ATBR- Audible Book Review: Portrait in Death by J.D. Robb; Female Detective, Mystery; my rating 4.75.

• Review2018- Book Review and Giveaway: Dog Training the American Male by Steve Alten; Humor, Romantic Comedy; my rating 3.75.

• Sharing Beyond Books #342 Comment Giveaway April 21, 2018. Open Worldwide. Ending 5/5/2018.

• Sunday Words of Encouragement April 22, 2018.

Finished Reading:

1. Audio/MP3 (TBR)

Devil’s Due
Destroyermen, Book 12
By: Taylor Anderson
Narrated by: William Dufris
Series: Destroyermen, Book 12
Length: 19 hrs and 22 mins
I really enjoy this series!
Source: 2017 Audible Credit Purchase.
Click on book title for full description.

2. Audible/Smartphone (TBR)

Hunting in Bruges: Hunters' Guild, Book 1
by E.J. Stevens
Narrator: Melanie A. Mason, Anthony Bowling
Duration: 7 hrs and 10 mins
This is a fun, action listen. Watch for Giveaway Post early this week as it closes 4/30.
Source: Author for Review and Giveaway Post.
Click on book title for full description.

3. Digital/Adobe (NetGalley 2017)

Out of the Box
by Jemma Westing
This is great fun with imaginative projects for kids.
Source: NetGalley 2018.
Twenty-five interactive cardboard model projects that engage kids' creativity and "out of the box" thinking skills through hands-on learning and the application of science-based principles.
Kids can bring old cardboard to life and build recycled creations they can play with, sit in, and wear.
Supporting STEAM education initiatives and the Maker Movement, Out of the Box includes 25 interactive cardboard model projects to inspire kids' creativity through engaged and hands-on learning, and, as the founder of Maker Faire Dale Dougherty says, "to realize with their hands what they can imagine in their minds."
From small-scale gifts to large constructions, author and award-winning paper engineer Jemma Westing uses clear, step-by-step instructions to show kids how to make dinosaurs, masks, race cars, and so much more, and inspirational images encourage them to make their own unique models when they are feeling more confident. The projects utilize only recycled materials, including cardboard rolls and boxes, so all the supplies should be easy to find right at home.
Build something brilliant with Out of the Box. The possibilities are endless!

Currently Reading:
1. eBook/Kindle (NetGalley 2017)

Let There Be Light
by Dan Gordon and Sam Sorbo
I didn't realize this was released as a movie in October 2017. I am midway and enjoying it.
Source: NetGalley 2017.
Click on book title for full description.

2. LBCPrint (TBR)

Know Your Bible: All 66 Books Explained and Applied
By: Paul Kent
This is our March read for Ladies Book Club. I haven't quite finished this as I am enjoying soaking in the summaries. I have two more days to finish.
Source: 2017 Purchase at CBD.
Click on book title for full description.

3. Audible/Smartphone (2018)

Start with Why
How Great Leaders Inspire Everyone to Take Action
By: Simon Sinek
Narrated by: Simon Sinek
Length: 7 hrs and 18 mins
We (daughter and I) made it about 2/3rds in this book for the conference.
Source: Audible sale Purchase 2018.
Publisher's Summary
Click on book title for full description.

4. Audio/MP3 (TBR)

The Never Hero
The Chronicles of Jonathan Tibbs, Book 1
By: T. Ellery Hodges
Narrated by: Steven Barnett
Series: The Chronicles of Jonathan Tibbs, Book 1
Length: 12 hrs and 22 mins
This pulled me in as soon as I started listening!
Source: Audible Credit Purchase 2015.
Publisher's Summary
At the gates between worlds...
In a war outside of time...
He fights for us.
Reclusive college student Jonathan Tibbs wakes in a pool of blood, not a scratch on him. His life is about to undergo a massive shift. A violent and merciless otherworldly enemy unleashes slaughter in the streets, calling out in a language only he understands.
And it is seeking its challenger.
In order to defeat the threat, Jonathan must become a temporal weapon...while remaining completely anonymous. Unfortunately, harnessing off-world powers has its own special challenges...
The Never Hero is the first installment in The Chronicles of Jonathan Tibbs - a mind-bending, genre-crossing action-adventure trilogy.
©2014 T. Ellery Hodges (P)2015 Foggy Night Publishing

5. eBook/Kindle (NetGalley 2017)

The Hills of Mare Imbrium
by Carleton Chinner
This is my next NG selection. 
I'm looking forward to a space opera.

Source: NetGalley 2017.
When Jonah arrives on the Moon, he isn't expecting much. All he wants is to stay out of trouble and start a new life working on the Helium mine at Chang’e Base. He doesn’t expect to be swept into the raging undercurrent of the Moon's racial tensions and politics.
Yesha is desperate to escape her domineering uncle. In a moment of rebellion, she agrees to have dinner with Jonah and his friend. A simple decision that will change her entire life and set her on a collision course with her uncle.
Unknown to either of them, the head of security, Wang Mei, has plans to enslave the people of the Moon and seize control of the incredible wealth that comes from supplying the world with energy.
Their lives collide in a perfect storm where no one is safe and freedom is the ultimate prize.

6. Audible/Smartphone (2018)

Aspire
By: Kevin Hall
Narrator: Patrick Lawlor
Duration: 5 hrs and 32 mins
 I won't get back to this until the end of the week.
Source: Audible 2018 sale purchase.
Click on book title for full description.

April 22, 2018 - I continue on track with my morning reading the One Year Bible plan on my smartphone. It is a great way to start my day and I share the joy of the word with other friends on the YouVersion Bible App. You can check out the audio on the companion commentary online.

I completed 3 books and posted 2 reviews on the blog. That puts me at 4 current reviews.
I am behind again linking at Goodreads, Amazon and Audible.
My NetGalley shelf is at 9 and I still have one committed author title in queue and many through InstaFreebie. I have more new author requests but still haven't replied.

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 didn't accept or receive any review titles.
I picked up two Audible daily deal titles and no Kindle deals this week.
I picked up nine free kindle titles through Amazon Crossing for World Book Day (4/24).
I also picked up some 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

NONE

Won

NONE

Purchased

Audible Purchase Daily Deals:
4/17/18 Daily Deal $3.95
The Lost Airman
A True Story of Escape from Nazi Occupied France
By: Seth Meyerowitz, Peter F. Stevens
Narrated by: Jonathan Todd Ross
Length: 9 hrs and 36 mins
Release date: 01-19-16

4/20 Daily Deal $1.95
All Systems Red
By: Martha Wells
Narrated by: Kevin R. Free
Length: 3 hrs and 17 mins
Release date: 10-30-17

Free

 
Amazon Crossing: 9 free international titles.


I added only 52 (including those 9) free titles to my Kindle library this week. (I was just too tired early in the week to download titles.) Titles found linked through Bookbub, Bookfun, Ereader News Today, Free Par-tay, Ignite Your Book, Inspired Reads, Pixel of Ink or Kindle ebooks.