#NetGalley Book Review: Lock 'N' Load (Federal K-9) by Tee O'Fallon

I enjoyed this romantic suspense but there is too much cursing for my tastes.
Lock 'N' Load (Federal K-9)
by Tee O'Fallon

File Size: 1165 KB
Print Length: 300 pages
Publisher: Entangled: Amara (May 28, 2018)
ASIN: B07CWRYKPV
Genre: Romantic Suspense
My Rating: 4.0 of 5.0

Crack CIA analyst Trista Gold is a whiz with the computer, but not so much with people. She hides behind her job, analyzing Top Secret code and making recommendations on national security. She doesn’t need a man in her life. But she will, very soon...
CIA K-9 officer Sgt. Matt Connors suspects that beneath Trista’s uptight appearance, there’s a sexy woman itching to cut loose. But he doesn’t dare act on his attraction. He’s a loner and always will be. Keeping away from Trista is a must-do directive. Until he doesn’t have a choice...
During a routine assignment, Trista stumbles across a cryptic exchange. She doesn’t think much of it...until someone tries to murder her—twice. Both times, Matt had been there to save her. But now she has to hide. And her new bodyguard, Matt, and his K-9 are the only hope she has against the powerful forces that want her dead.

Review:
Trista is a crack CIA analyst who is sorely lacking in self-confidence and social skills. Presumably she was a computer nerd through her growing years and never met a boy or man to show her the world beyond computer code. Then she meets CIA K-9 officer Matt Connors. He is a hunk, of course, and Trista is flabbergasted to be saved by him --- twice in one day! He is so kind to her, but she knows a man like him couldn’t be interested in a geek like her. And it doesn’t help that she has been frightened of dogs since a bad encounter as a child.

Matt has always been able to get any woman he wants but he makes it clear there will be nothing beyond a good time. He has a guilt-ridden soul that tells him he doesn’t deserve love or happiness. He sees beyond the geeky Trista to the beautiful woman behind the mousy clothes. He is glad to help her and hopes to show her she is more than a computer nerd, but he can’t allow himself to respond to the pull of attraction and longing for something more that he feels when he looks at or thinks of her.

Trista has uncovered a suspicious, mysterious and threatening chat but her identity was exposed by a few minutes of computer breakdown. She doesn’t want to think the night time attack on her has anything to do with what she saw but a second attack on her life convinces everyone else around her that her life is in danger. Security assigns Matt to be her body guard so the pair are reluctantly thrown together.

Matt takes her to the safest place he knows – his own home where a handful of his old training buddies are visiting. Each one is a man-worthy canine officer within different branches of enforcement. Their attentions help Trista to come out of her shell while raising the jealous nerves for Matt. But he has to concentrate on keeping her safe before he can face his own demons to try to be the man she challenges him to be.

I did like the chemistry between Trista and Matt even though I couldn't relate too well to Trista's rather wimpy character. Fortunately she grows through the danger. And of course, I love the canine element although it is secondary to the romantic suspense. I also enjoyed the banter of the hunky friends. I imagine there could be great romantic suspense stories for each friend. The suspense, danger and action are all laid out well to keep the book moving along at a good pace. The sexual encounters are an addition, not the focus, and they are sizzling without being crass. The romance has conflicts that provide for realistic growth for both characters.

My only objection with the book is the free and liberal use of foul words. Sadly, that distracts and detracts from my enjoyment of the story. I acknowledge I am sensitive to foul language – I don’t use it and don’t like it. I’ll accept a little but not continuous through the book. If the series came with an edited version I would read every one. Otherwise I will most likely pass for other less vulgar works. I recommend this to readers who enjoy strong romantic suspense with all the good elements: romance, suspense and action. Just be cautioned about the language.

Source: NetGalley Selection 2018. This qualifies for NetGalley Challenge.

Audible Book Review: Koban: The Mark of Koban, Volume 2 by Stephen W. Bennett

This is good adventure with interesting futuristic weapon detail.

Koban: The Mark of Koban, Volume 2

By: Stephen W. Bennett

Narrated by: Eric Michael Summerer

Series: Koban, Book 2

Length: 22 hrs and 11 mins

Unabridged Audiobook

Release date: 05-16-14

Language: English

Publisher: Stephen W Bennett

Genre: Alien Invasion, Colonization, Sci Fi, Space Opera

My Rating: 5.0 of 5.0

Publisher's Summary

Book 2 of the Koban Series

Already faster and more powerful than the last 17 species that they have destroyed or subjugated, the Krall have set their sights on humankind. After testing humans on their future home world of Koban and finding them worthy opponents, the Krall start a war of slow extermination with the rest of humanity. The war is intended to last generations as they apply their own version of "natural selection" to cull their weaker warriors in combat, purifying the Krall gene pool with their finest warriors for breeding. Why? The Krall desire to rule the galaxy someday, from their future home world of Koban, where the impossibly fast and powerful animals have proven to be too fast and strong for them to match. Only through the attrition of war will the Krall perfect their bloodline to become the masters of Koban. When the Krall departed Koban to start their war with humanity, they destroyed the protections that kept their prisoners safe. They left the human test subjects to fall victim to high gravity, and the deadly predators. Big mistake. The bio scientist left behind enhanced the human genome with Koban genes, forming the next generations of humans. They are becoming what the Krall sought to be. The fastest, most powerful species in the galaxy. The men and women trapped on Koban, locked in a struggle for their own survival for twenty years, return to the stars to help defend Human Space. The Krall have had their way with human worlds, killing when and where they wish. Outnumbered, the new Kobani will now take the war to the Krall.

©2013 Stephen W Bennett (P)2014 Stephen W Bennett

Review:
This picks up from Book One when the Krall, a vicious killing species, abandon captured humans on Koban expecting that the hostile environment to kill the humans. Instead the humans have learned to survive. A progressive group has thrived by accepting gene therapy to improve their abilities. Several married couples have produced the first generation with enhanced genes. This group plan to be ready for battle if the Krall ever return. And if they can find a way off planet they will face the Krall where they threaten other humans.

I was pulled in following the characters from book one as they developed friendships with other native species. In addition to becoming allies, they are adding more special skills to the human gene pool. Meanwhile the Krall begin a slow war and eradication of the human colonies.

I like the multiple perspectives, from the Kobani humans, the humans being attached on colonies and the enemy Krall. There are a few slow areas with detail of weapons and technology, but even that was fascinating due to the author's imaginative creation. I recommend this to readers who enjoy space sci fi, alien battles. I enjoyed the audio experience and will be getting the next in the series.

Audio Notes: Eric Michael Summerer does an excellent job of narration. He provides distinct voices, emotions and energy. The audio enhanced my enjoyment of the excellent, engaging story.

Source: 2017 Audible Credit Purchase. This qualifies for 2018TBR, Audio Book and Alphabet ("K" title) Challenges.

Happy Memorial Day - Thank you!

Sunday Post May 27, 2018/It's Monday! What are You Reading? Plus Mailbox Monday May 28, 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.

I am making better progress at the office with the help of a new assistant for my law practice. We had to get a new computer set up and do training but it is going to help a lot.
Our weather remains nice in the high 70s to mid 80s. Of course we have had rain and may be getting outer bands of the first tropical storm of the season.

My reading was steady but I had to push to finish three of the books on Sunday. Finiahsed: 1 Audible, 1 Audio, 1 ebook and 1 print. I posted four reviews and my usual memes.

I visited only 22 blogs last week.
Shout Out this week for Books of My Heart which is a new to me blog site. Looks like she enjoys Audios and some genres similar to me.:-)
Thank you to all the nice people who visit me.

These were last week's posts:

• Sunday Post May 20, 2018/It's Monday! What are You Reading? Plus Mailbox Monday May 21, 2018.

• eBook Tour 2018- Book Review and Tour Giveaway: The Deadliest Sport by June Trop; Historical Fiction, Mystery; my rating 4.0.

• eBook Author TBR- Book Review: Hearts Under Fire by Antonio Scotto di Carlo; Mystery, Romance, Suspense; my rating 4.25.

• Martha's Bookshelf***Friday Pick Giveaway May 25, 2018. Open Worldwide. Ending 5/31/2018.

• ATBR- Audible Book Review: Geekerella by Ashley Poston; Adaptation, Fairy Tale, Romance; my rating 4.0.

• NG2018- #NetGalley Book Review: Nick Newton is Not a Genius by S.E.M Ishida; Adventure, Clockwork, Middle Grade, Sci Fi; my rating 4.5.

• Sunday Words of Encouragement May 27, 2018.

Finished Reading:
1. Audible/Smartphone (TBR)

Koban: The Mark of Koban, Volume 2
By: Stephen W. Bennett
Narrated by: Eric Michael Summerer
Series: Koban, Book 2
Length: 22 hrs and 11 mins
This is a good adventure plus interesting futuristic weapon detail.
Source: 2017 Audible Credit Purchase("K" title).
Click on book title for full description.

2. eBook/Kindle (NetGalley 2018)

Lock 'N' Load (Federal K-9)
by Tee O'Fallon
I enjoyed the romantic suspense; 
too much cursing for my tastes.
Source: NetGalley Selection 2018.
Click on book title for full description.

3. Audio/MP3 (TBR SYNC) 

The Raven Boys
by Maggie Stiefvater
Read by Will Patton
This is a YA story with strong, sometimes dark, magic elements.
I pulled this out for Alphabet Challenge.
Source: 2013 SYNC("R" title).
"Do you believe in magic?" Answer that after you've listened to the first title in Stiefvater's new Raven Boys series. Narrator Will Patton takes you into a world of psychic powers, legends of the Welsh King Glendower, and the ley lines (mystical energy fields) that transect a sleepy Virginia town. Patton inhabits young Blue Sargent, who is raised in a family of psychics but whose own power amplifies what others see or sense. Blue is justly wary of the boys from the elite private academy, known as the Raven Boys. Listeners, like Blue, are fascinated and snared by the quest for Glendower led by Raven Boy Gansey. Patton is masterful with the suspense and the mysticism and seductively plays the emotional line of real and imagined events. Don't miss this compelling listen, and pray that Will Patton has already signed on for the other titles of the series. R.F.W. Winner of AudioFile Earphones Award © AudioFile 2012, Portland, Maine [Published: SEPTEMBER 2012]

4. LBCPrint (TBR)

A Simple Change, Home to Amana Series #2
By: Judith Miller
This moved along once I settled into it.
Source: Christianbook.com on sale.
Click on book title for full description.

Currently Reading:
1. eBook/Kindle (Author TBR)

Meet Your Match (No Match for Love Book 4)
by Lindzee Armstrong
I wanted to fit in at least one more book for May and this was short. It's fun so far.
Source: 2017 Author Newsletter Sign up.
Nothing slows love down like the friend zone.
a No Match for Love prequel novella
Sixteen-year-old Brooke Pierce doesn’t need her mom to tell her all boys are trouble. After watching her dad break up the family for a woman half his age, dating is the last thing on her mind.
On the first day at a new high school Brooke meets Luke, the school flirt with a reputation for heartbreak. He’s interested. She’s not. That only makes him chase her more.
After a shocking revelation from her dad, Brooke and Luke form an unexpected bond, complete with crazy rules to keep them safely in the friend zone. Problem is, that’s the worst place to be when you’re falling in love.
Part of the No Match for Love series, Meet Your Match is a delightfully sweet prequel novella that can be read as a stand-alone. It's sure to delight readers who love Hallmark movies and sweet romance. This series combines complex characters with smart dialogue and a fast-paced plot.

2. Audible/MP3 (TBR)

The Vanished Man
A Lincoln Rhyme Novel
By: Jeffery Deaver
Narrated by: Adam Grupper
This is my "V" title for Alphabet Challenge.
Source: 2004 Audible Credit Purchase.
Publisher's Summary
It begins at the prestigious music school in New York City. A killer flees the scene of a homicide and locks himself in a classroom. Within minutes, the police have him surrounded. When the scream rings out, followed by a gunshot, they break down the door. The room is empty.
Lincoln Rhyme and Amelia Sachs are brought in to help with the high-profile investigation. For the ambitious Sachs, solving the case could earn her a promotion. For the quadriplegic Rhyme, it means relying on his protégé to ferret out the master illusionist they've dubbed "the conjurer", who baits them with gruesome murders that become more diabolical with each fresh crime. As the fatalities rise and the minutes tick down, Rhyme and Sachs must move beyond the smoke and mirrors to prevent a terrifying act of vengeance that could become the greatest vanishing act of all.
©2003 Jeffrey Deaver (P)2003 Simon & Schuster, Inc. All Rights Reserved

3. eBook/Kindle (NGTBR)

Queendom of the Seven Lakes (Legends of the Godskissed Continent)
by A B Endacott
I like how this is starting.
Source: 2017 NetGalley. "Q" for Alphabet Challenge.
“Your Majesty, I take life. I am not certain that my skills actually extend to preserving it.”
There are always those who are willing to pay for someone else’s death. Having grown up amongst the Family of Assassins, ELEN-AI knows well the prices people are willing to pay to see their enemies fall quickly, quietly, and discreetly. When she is asked to preserve life rather than take it, she is surprised. Upon hearing that her charge is the Queen’s only child GIDYON, who is secretly being groomed to succeed his mother, she is horrified. To ensure political stability, no man has ever sat on the throne of the Queendom of the Seven Lakes. Yet one does not easily refuse a Queen, and so reluctantly, Elen-ai accepts the contract.
Her fears only deepen upon meeting the sixteen-year-old Prince Gidyon, who treats her as no better than a petty murderer. However, following an attack on his life, Elen-ai is forced to admit that the danger of leaving this boy-prince alone may be even worse than leaving him to his own devices. Elen-ai reluctantly accompanies Gidyon across the country to identify those within the seven most powerful families who are responsible for the attempt on the Prince’s life.
Somewhere in their travels from the calm waters of Lake Tak to the looming cliffs above Lake Bertak, the two form an unlikely yet profound friendship, and Elen-ai begins to see that Gidyon has the makings of a great ruler within him. As they meet with the families of power, it becomes increasingly clear that secrets and power games run far deeper throughout the Queendom of the Seven Lakes than either of them ever suspected.

May 27, 2018 - I am still enjoying the prayer app which gives me five prayer groups each morning! I continue on track with my morning reading the One Year Bible plan on my smartphone. You can check out audio of the One Year Bible Plan on the companion commentary online.

I completed 3 books and posted 4 reviews. This puts me up to date with 4 reviews due.
I need to find time to add more reviews to Goodreads, Amazon and Audible.
My NetGalley shelf is at 13. I have two newer author titles in queue. Still many through InstaFreebie and many new author requests but I haven't replied to.

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 author title for review, one new NetGalley title and a new book of Ladies Book Club.
I picked up two Audible daily deal titles this week.
I also purchased one Kindle deal this week.
I got two free SYNC audios.
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

5/24/18 DD $2.95
The Mistake
By: K. L. Slater
Narrated by: Lucy Price-Lewis
Length: 8 hrs and 26 mins
Release date: 11-28-17
I like Slater for suspense.

5/27/18 DD $3.95
Sweet Tea and Sympathy
By: Molly Harper
Narrated by: Amanda Ronconi
Length: 9 hrs and 27 mins
Release date: 11-21-17
This is different for Harper but I like her humor.

I picked this up for $.99 with a $3.00 credit from Amazon.

Extracted (Extracted Trilogy Book 1)
by RR Haywood
Can these three heroes, extracted from their timelines at the point of death, save the world?

Free

I missed the first three weeks of SYNC but downloaded week 5 titles:

When Dimple Met Rishi by Sandhya Menon Read by Sneha Mathan, Vikas Adam
Baker's Magic by Diane Zahler Read by Tavia Gilbert, Michael Crouch, Stephen DeRosa, Kenneth Cavett, L.J. Ganser, Robin Miles, Stina Nielsen, Elisabeth Rodgers

I added only 18 free titles to my Kindle library this week. (Again I was too tired most nights 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 May 27, 2018

This morning we had numerous families out visiting others for the long weekend. The youth Sunday School teacher brought the youth and led our class. He spoke about Memorial Day from the informed perspective of a Veteran who has lost brothers during a search and rescue mission. Ultimately the message narrowed down serving something bigger than ourselves and learning to love one another – even, or especially, the unlovable and those who don’t love us.

Pastor reminded us of the sacrifice of so many for the freedoms we enjoy. Then he completed his Relationslips Sermon series.

Pastor summarized the earlier lessons noting that all earthly relationships are impacted by the status of our relationship with God. Having dealt with obstacles and elements necessary for healthy relationships he asked, “Are we ready and able to receive love from others?”

When we open ourselves to love, we also open ourselves to pain. The young may have more recent experiences but those who have lived many years have a long history of relationships from our experiences. When some experience pain, Including injuries in church groups. they close themselves off or place limits on their relationships hoping to avoid new pain. Pain can cause us to be cynical.

Our ability to receive love is influenced by our past and present relationships. Do we allow our past to control us? Healthy relationships allow us to recognize an unlimited, or at least growing and expanding, capacity to love and be loved.

John 13:3-9 tells about Jesus, the anticipated King, stooping as a servant to wash the feet of the disciples. This was unexpected, and the Apostle Peter initially said “no.” But Jesus noted that accepting His love and service is a sign of belonging. This is often how we love – through service.

Pain is obstacle that keeps us from receiving love. These obstacles include guilt, anger, pain, fear and pride. We may have cause to feel unworthy. But Jesus took the pain, guilt and shame of all men. We must remove the obstacles as explained in the earlier sermon messages (confession, forgiveness, generosity and thankfulness). Sometimes we must learn to accept professional help.

We must remember the elements of love as set forth in “the love chapter”, 1 Corinthians 13:1-7. Ultimately, we must take the burden of guilt and pain to the place where they were piled on one person. We must take them to Jesus and leave them at the cross.

I found this song for today's message

Verses for Today
1 Corinthians 13:1-7 (NIV)
13 If I speak in the tongues of men or of angels, but do not have love, I am only a resounding gong or a clanging cymbal. 2 If I have the gift of prophecy and can fathom all mysteries and all knowledge, and if I have a faith that can move mountains, but do not have love, I am nothing. 3 If I give all I possess to the poor and give over my body to hardship that I may boast, but do not have love, I gain nothing.
4 Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. 5 It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. 6 Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. 7 It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres.

Lord - Only with Your help can I truly love others and accept love. Please guide me and help me.

#NetGalley Book Review: Nick Newton is Not a Genius by S.E.M Ishida

I enjoyed this Middle Grade story and its charming illustrations.
Nick Newton is Not a Genius
by S.E.M Ishida

File Size: 6244 KB
Print Length: 117 pages
Publisher: BJU Press/JourneyForth (October 16, 2016)
ASIN: B01M4KELXW
Genre: Adventure, Children's, Clockwork, Sci Fi
My Rating: 4.5 of 5.0

Nick Newton is not a Genius. He’s just a merely average boy from the country of Thauma. He may not be brilliant like his mom and dad or a child prodigy like his sister, but he won’t let that stop him from uncovering the mysteries of a clockwork factory or revealing a war hero’s greatest secret. With help from two new friends and his butler named Jude, Nick embarks on an adventure that will change his life forever.

Review:
Nick Newton is a fourth grader who is not a genius like his parents and his older sister. His mother is a genius scientist and his father is a genius artist. His annoying sister, Erma, is a child prodigy with several talents. Nick’s testing reveals he is a normal kid and won’t be able to attend the school for the genius children. This sets his parents on a search for an appropriate alternative school.

Meanwhile, Nick is happy to be working on a project he found in the attic, among his grandfather’s things. His grandfather, for whom Nick is named, was a war hero and famous inventor of weapons. Nick is sure that greandfather developed other things besides war weapons. Nick has found the parts of a clockwork bird and instructions and he is intent on piecing the bird together.

When Nick begins his new school the founder of the school, Mr. Volk, wants Nick’s mechanical bird as a collector’s piece. Nick is cautious of the man especially in light of negative rumors regarding him and his robotic inclinations. Will Nick be safe in the school and can he protect his treasured clockwork bird? Can they unlock the secrets hiding in grandfather’s locked trunk?

This is a fun story with engaging, uncomplicated illustrations. The secondary characters, including his family, the butler and Mr. Volk, have their individual charming, quirks which add interest. The story reads easily and I think middle school students would certainly enjoy this as I did. Nick learns from mistakes and adventures as all normal children should/can. I enjoyed Nick’s discoveries and realizations at the end of the story even though the ending seemed a bit abrupt.

The tag words at Amazon include "Christian" however I did not see any overt religious message. I think perhaps the implications of a mechanical heart may be involved in that tag. I do recommend this especially for students (and adults) who enjoy clockwork or model elements and a little mystery too. I am encouraging my eight-year-old granddaughter to try the story.

Source: NetGalley Selection 2018. The qualifies for my NetGalley Challenge and as a 2018 title for Alphabet Challenge.

Audible Book Review: Geekerella by Ashley Poston

This is a fun listen – a nice mix of fairy tale and YA.

Geekerella
By: Ashley Poston
Narrated by: Eileen Stevens, Tristan Morris

Length: 10 hrs and 32 mins
Unabridged Audiobook
Release date: 04-04-17
Language: English
Publisher: Blackstone Audio, Inc.
Genre: Adaptation, Fairy Tale, Romance
My Rating: 4.0 of 5.0

Publisher's Summary
Geek girl Elle Wittimer lives and breathes Starfield, the classic science-fiction series she grew up watching with her late father. So when she sees a cosplay contest for a new Starfield movie, she has to enter. The prize? An invitation to the ExcelsiCon Cosplay Ball and a meet-and-greet with the actor slated to play Federation Prince Carmindor in the reboot. With savings from her gig at the Magic Pumpkin food truck and her dad's old costume, Elle's determined to win - unless her stepsisters get there first.
Teen actor Darien Freeman used to live for cons - before he was famous. Now they're nothing but autographs and awkward meet-and-greets. Playing Carmindor is all he has ever wanted, but Starfield fandom has written him off as just another dumb heartthrob. As ExcelsiCon draws near, Darien feels more and more like a fake - until he meets a girl who shows him otherwise. But when she disappears at midnight, will he ever be able to find her again?
Part-romance, part-love letter to nerd culture, and all totally adorbs, Geekerella is a fairy tale for anyone who believes in the magic of fandom.
©2017 Ashley Poston (P)2017 Blackstone Audio, Inc.

Review:
Elle’s father was a founder of ExcelsiCon when Cons were fairly new. Elle shared her father’s love of the sci fi program Starfield and enjoyed the excitement of the sci fi conference until her father’s death. Now Elle lives with her stepmother and two step-sisters, one of whom is particularly mean. Her stepmother hasn’t lost her resentment for Elle’s close relationship with her father and she doesn’t give Ellie any slack at home.

Across the states, teen actor, Darien Freeman, has just been announced as the new face of Starfield’s main character, Carmindor. Coming in from a beach show, many Starfield fans, with Ellie at the lead, consider him a weak player who won’t be able to live up to the job. Darien is scheduled to attend the Sci Fi Con for pormotion. He used to love the Con until he was betrayed and exposed by his best friend. As Darien tries to manage a way out of attending the Con he accidentally connects with Ellie. They begin a texting exchange not knowing the true identity of each other.

I really enjoyed this modern-day Cinderella story. I like the primary characters and some of the secondary characters play good supporting roles. As in most Cinderella stories, I was rooting for the geek and the star to find a way to meet and develop a true relationship. I was also hoping for the downfall of the unloving stepmother and bratty, bullying step-sister.

The story is told from alternating first person views by Ellie and Darian. The romance is appropriately sweet for a younger audience. The fandom is a great element to draw cosplayers and sci fi fans. The story is fun and I recommend it to readers who enjoy cosplayers, Cons and fairytale romance.

Audio Notes: Eileen Stevens and Tristan Morris do a great job on the shared narration. The capture the youth and self-deprecating attitude of the primary characters. They also do a fine job with the other characters. The full package is very entertaining.

Source: 2017 Audible Daily Deal Purchase. This qualifies for 2018TBR, Audio Book and Alphabet Challenges.

Martha's Bookshelf***Friday Pick Giveaway May 25, 2018

Happy Friday! 

A busy week; new staff is helping me get work done. Yay! We've had sun and rain all week.

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 May 18 Pick. There was one automatic win this week. Automatic wins are those who requested the book four times without other people asking for that book during those weeks. There were two titles blocked; one was won through the block again.
AUTO: Elizabeth gets a Depraved Heart.

CONGRATULATIONS
to Random.org picked Winners from May 18 Pick:
FREDAMANS gets a GC and
DI gets By a Spider's Thread (through the block).

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.}

Only 7 days left in May!
Image found at Goodreads.

New Book Group #78 April 27, 2018

Midnight Rainbow
Betrayal
Indigo Blue
By a Spider's Thread

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 1,164+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!

Book Review: Hearts Under Fire by Antonio Scotto di Carlo

This mystery and romance had some good twists.
Hearts Under Fire
by Antonio Scotto di Carlo

File Size: 1232 KB
Print Length: 235 pages
Page Numbers Source ISBN: 1976742951
Publication Date: March 3, 2015
ASIN: B00U88RP52
Genre: Mystery, Romance, Suspense
My Rating: 4.25 of 5.0

Jenny is a beautiful young businesswoman. She lives in an Italian tourist town where she owns a shop. Her need for independence is her strength, but her innate distrust sometimes creates problems with others.
One day she encounters love. More than an encounter, it’s a collision, a head-on collision. Her heart isn’t Eros’s only target, and everything changes …
Police begin investigating suspicious events around her, slowing down the construction of a new great hotel in town and rocking her life even more.

Review:
Jenny is a young woman making a success of her sales shop in an Italian tourist town. She has been betrayed in the past, so she guards her independence fiercely to the point of spoiling her personal relationships. She is trying to find a way to rent the space above her shop so she can store her inventory on site. She meets with her landlord who flirts with her but she thinks she can convince him to give her a discounted rental rate with the goal of buying it.

Her normally proper boyfriend, a successful architect, unexpectedly invites her to go out of town for a resort weekend. He is a good man but is pressuring her a bit to get married. At the end of the weekend he convinces her to accept her proposal. Shortly after they have returned home the police show up at her door to announce that he has been murdered. Because a similar murder occurred a few months before the police are not sure whether this is a random murder or something related to his work.

The strange coincidence is that one of the detectives, Chris, is a man who Jenny recently exchanged heated glances with in the market. Chris is enchanted with Jenny even though he should have nothing to do with her because of the investigation.

Chris and Jenny soon fall in love with intense chemistry but intense conflict too. Chris has his own past demons that create warnings and obstacles which run up against Jenny’s obsession with independence. His reactions begin to create a growing negative suspicion in Jenny that causes a traumatic twist in their relationship.

I enjoyed the warm, descriptive writing style very much. I was surprised that this was written in Italian and translated into English as it flowed quite well. The sexual encounters were a bit cliched but not grossly graphic. I really liked the twists and turns which culminate in a final twist in the last chapter. There is a fun (and strange) rap song included. It was an engaging romance/mystery mix that I recommend to readers who enjoy those genres.

Source: 2017 Author through Goodreads. This qualifies for 2018TBR and Alphabet Challenges.

Book Review and Tour Giveaway: The Deadliest Sport by June Trop

The mystery and historical detail are interesting in this historical fiction.

The Deadliest Sport: A Miriam bat Isaac Mystery in Ancient Alexandria
by June Trop

File Size: 1363 KB
Print Length: 174 pages
Publisher: Black Opal Books (October 7, 2017)
ASIN: B075VXKST5
Genre: Historical Fiction, Mystery
My Rating: 4.0 of 5.0

Miriam bat Isaac, a budding alchemist in first-century CE Alexandria, welcomes her twin brother Binyamin home to fight his last gladiatorial bout in Alexandria. But when he demands his share of the family money so he can build a school for gladiators in Alexandria, Miriam explains that he forsook his share when he took the gladiatorial oath. When she refuses to loan him the money for what she feels is a shady, and dangerous, enterprise, Binyamin becomes furious. Soon after, the will of Amram, Miriam’s elderly charge, turns up missing, Amram becomes seriously ill, and the clerk of the public records house is murdered. Could Binyamin really be behind this monstrous scheme? If not he, who could be responsible? And is Miriam slated to be the next victim?

Review:
Miriam bat Isaac is an industrious young woman in 1st Century Alexandria. She has helped her father's former business partner maintain the family business and make safe investments. She is hoping that her twin brother Binyamin will soon retire as a Gladiator and join the family business. Ben has just arrived home with his best friend, another gladiator who is brutish and suspected murderer. They are to participate in gladiator games in their home town.

Miriam doesn't approve of Ben's behavior and disrespect for their Jewish traditions. She soon learns that Ben has no inclination to join the family business. Instead he demands his inheritance so that he and his best friend can build a Ludus, a training facility for gladiators, in Alexandria.

When Miraima explains that he has no inheritance, Ben pressures her to convince her partner to invest in the project. A day or two after Ben's return, Miriam discovers her partner's will is missing and he has suddenly become quite ill. Then a former family employer is killed and certain facts lead Mirium to suspect her brother and his friend are involved.

I appreciated Miriam's independent nature but thought she was very foolish for going to the rougher side of the docks to investigate the missing will and the murder on her own. Even a past traumatice experinece in the streets doesn't make her use better sence. She also puts herself at great risk by confronting the men she believes are responsible for murder.

For the most part I liked the clear and detailed writing. However, there are some long, windy sentences and a portion of the story is delivered through a letter rather than action. I can't say that I was drawn in by the characters as there was a certain flatness in the story for me. Still, I liked the mystery and the historical detail which was remarkable. I recommend this to reader's who enjoy historical detail and a mystery plot.

I received this title through iRead Book Tours It also qualifies for a 2018 title in my Alphabet Challenge.

Content Rating: PG (mild religious oriented expletives, such as "Lord," some violent descriptions, such as the corpse, the gladiatorial arena)

To read reviews, please visit June Trop's page on iRead Book Tours.

Buy the Book:

Amazon ~ Barnes & Noble

Add to Goodreads

Watch the Book Trailer:

Meet the Author:

June Trop and her twin sister Gail wrote their first story, "The Steam Shavel [sic]," when they were six years old growing up in rural New Jersey. They sold it to their brother Everett for two cents.

"I don't remember how I spent my share," June says. "You could buy a fistful of candy for a penny in those days, but ever since then, I wanted to be a writer."

As an award-winning middle school science teacher, June used storytelling to capture her students' imagination and interest in scientific concepts. Years later as a professor of teacher education, she focused her research on the practical knowledge teachers construct and communicate through storytelling. Her first book, From Lesson Plans to Power Struggles (Corwin Press, 2009), is based on the stories new teachers told about their first classroom experiences.

Now associate professor emerita at the State University of New York at New Paltz, she devotes her time to writing The Miriam bat Isaac Mystery Series. Her heroine is based on the personage of Maria Hebrea, the legendary founder of Western alchemy, who developed the concepts and apparatus alchemists and chemists would use for 1500 years.

June lives with her husband Paul Zuckerman in New Paltz, where she is breathlessly recording her plucky heroine's next life-or-death exploit.

Connect with the Author: Website ~ Facebook ~ Pinterest

Enter the Giveaway!

Ends June 2, 2018

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Sunday Post May 20, 2018/It's Monday! What are You Reading? Plus Mailbox Monday May 21, 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.

At least I feel I made progress at the office this week. Hopefully that will continue as we near half year already.
Our weather remains nice with some rain on and off. The storms that went up the coast pretty much passed us.

My reading was steady. I finished three books: 1 Audible title and 2 ebooks. I posted three reviews and my usual memes.

I visited 26 blogs again last week.
Shout Out this week for Sam Still Reading who shares lots of books that are new to me.
Thank you to all the nice people who visit me.

These were last week's posts:

• Sunday Post May 13, 2018/It's Monday! What are You Reading? Plus Mailbox Monday May 14, 2018.

• NGTBR- #NetGalley Book Review: The Hills of Mare Imbrium by Carleton Chinner; Colonization, Sci Fi, Space; my rating 4.0.

• ATBR- Audible Book Review: Aspire by Kevin Hall; Communication, Inspirational, Self-Development; my rating 4.5.

• Martha's Bookshelf***Friday Pick Giveaway May 18, 2018. Open Worldwide. Ending 5/24/2018.

• ATBR- Audible Book Review: Joshua by John S. Wilson; Post-Apocalyptic, Sci Fi; my rating 4.0.

• Sharing Beyond Books #344 Comment Giveaway May 19, 2018. Open Worldwide. Ending 6/2/2018.

• Sunday Words of Encouragement May 20, 2018.

Finished Reading:

1. Audio/MP3 (TBR)

Geekerella
By: Ashley Poston
Narrated by: Eileen Stevens, Tristan Morris
Length: 10 hrs and 32 mins
This is a fun listen - mostly YA.
Source: 2017 Audible Daily Deal Purchase.
Click on book title for full description.

2. eBook/Kindle (Author 2017)

Hearts Under Fire
by Antonio Scotto di Carlo
This mystery and romance had some good twists.
Source: 2017 Author through Goodreads.
Click on book title for full description.

3. eBook/Kindle (NetGalley 2018)

Nick Newton is Not a Genius
by S.E.M Ishida
I enjoyed this MG story and its illustrations.
Source: NetGalley Selection 2018.
Nick Newton is not a Genius. He’s just a merely average boy from the country of Thauma. He may not be brilliant like his mom and dad or a child prodigy like his sister, but he won’t let that stop him from uncovering the mysteries of a clockwork factory or revealing a war hero’s greatest secret. With help from two new friends and his butler named Jude, Nick embarks on an adventure that will change his life forever.

Currently Reading:
1. Audible/Smartphone (TBR)

Koban: The Mark of Koban, Volume 2
By: Stephen W. Bennett
Narrated by: Eric Michael Summerer
Series: Koban, Book 2
Length: 22 hrs and 11 mins
This is a good adventure plus interesting futuristic weapon detail.
Source: 2017 Audible Credit Purchase("K" title).
Click on book title for full description.

2. LBCPrint (TBR)
 

A Simple Change, Home to Amana Series #2

By: Judith Miller

I plan to finish this week so I can start on our next Ladies Book Club title (see Mailbox below).

Source: Christianbook.com on sale.

Click on book title for full description.

3. eBook/Kindle (NetGalley 2018)

Lock 'N' Load (Federal K-9)
by Tee O'Fallon
I thought I'd read this close to its release date 5/28.
Source: NetGalley Selection 2018.
Crack CIA analyst Trista Gold is a whiz with the computer, but not so much with people. She hides behind her job, analyzing Top Secret code and making recommendations on national security. She doesn’t need a man in her life. But she will, very soon...
CIA K-9 officer Sgt. Matt Connors suspects that beneath Trista’s uptight appearance, there’s a sexy woman itching to cut loose. But he doesn’t dare act on his attraction. He’s a loner and always will be. Keeping away from Trista is a must-do directive. Until he doesn’t have a choice...
During a routine assignment, Trista stumbles across a cryptic exchange. She doesn’t think much of it...until someone tries to murder her—twice. Both times, Matt had been there to save her. But now she has to hide. And her new bodyguard, Matt, and his K-9 are the only hope she has against the powerful forces that want her dead.

I do plan another Audio book on my MP3 but I'm not sure which one yet.

May 20, 2018 - I am really enjoying the prayer app which gives me five prayer groups each morning! I continue on track with my morning reading the One Year Bible plan on my smartphone. You can check out audio of the One Year Bible Plan on the companion commentary online.

I completed 3 books and posted 3 reviews. That keeps me at 4 reviews due.
I need to find time to add more reviews to Goodreads, Amazon and Audible.
My NetGalley shelf is still at 15 since I read one and added one. I read one author title but have two newer ones in queue. Still many through InstaFreebie and many new author requests but I haven't replied to.

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 author title for review, one new NetGalley title and a new book of Ladies Book Club.
I resisted all Audible daily deal titles again this week.
I picked up two Audible titles with my April credits (last week's were March credits) as I learned that my old plan (since 2001) doesn't have roll over credits.
I didn't purchase any Kindle deals this week.
I got two free SYNC audios.
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

Author Title for Review (I listened to the 1st in the series earlier this year):

The Memory Tree (Carson Chronicles Book 2)
by John A. Heldt (Author)
"...several time travelers find answers and meaning as they continue the adventure of a lifetime in the age of doughboys, silent movies, and Model T's."

Another new title from NetGalley:

Talon of Scorpio

by G. T. Almasi

"Superagent Alix Nico returns in a new Shadowstorm thriller."

A new title for Ladies Book Club: I purchased paperbacks for most of the group but didn't have enough for me. I downloaded the Kindle version to read before June 9.

Stranger Things
by Erin Healy
Christian Mystery/Suspence: "In the burnt-out hollow, a house of dark secrets and an eerie beauty beckon."

Won

NONE

Purchased

5/18/18 April Audible Credit Purchases
All These Worlds
Bobiverse, Book 3
By: Dennis E. Taylor
Narrated by: Ray Porter
Length: 7 hrs and 55 mins
Release date: 08-08-17

Cress
The Lunar Chronicles
By: Marissa Meyer
Narrated by: Rebecca Soler
Length: 15 hrs and 40 mins
Release date: 02-04-14

Free

I missed the first three weeks of SYNC but downloaded week 4s titles:
 
Saving Montgomery Sole by Mariko Tamaki Read by Rebecca Lowman
Being Jazz by Jazz Jennings Read by Jazz Jennings

I added only 13 free titles to my Kindle library this week. (Again I was too tired 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.