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Monday, December 30, 2019

Sunday Post December 29, 2019/It's Monday! What are You Reading? Plus Mailbox Monday December 30, 2019

Sunday Post #318 Chairs, Compliance, and Storms
I am linking with Sunday Post at Caffeinated Book Reviewer.

It's Monday! What Are You Reading now at The Book Date (at Wordpress)?
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.



Hubby and I are enjoying our visit with son and his family. Sadly I caught a cold so have been huddling in bed alot the last two days.
My son was generous with flowers and chocolates for my birthday.
Body lotion too which didn't arrive until today.

I am very thankful the temperatures have only been in the 30s at night and mild 50s during the days. Good except for rain.
I enjoyed my reading and listening this past week. I finished two NetGalley titles, one ebook and one longer audiobook.   I posted two reviews and my usual memes.

I visited 17 blogs last week.
Shout Out this week to ALL MY BLOG FRIENDS: MAY YOU HAVE A SAFE AND HAPPY NEW YEAR!
Thank you to all the nice people who visit me.

These were last week's posts:
  • NG2019- #NetGalley Book Review: Strands of Truth by Colleen Coble; Genre: Christian, Romantic Suspense; My Rating: 4.25 of 5.0.
  • A2019- Audio Book Review: Someone to Care by Mary Balogh; Genre: Historical Romance, Romance; My Rating: 4.0 of 5.0 Overall; Story 4.0; Narration 4.25.

Finished Reading:
1. eBook/Kindle (NG2019)
49896643. sx318 sy475  



The Ultimate Guide to the 2020 Election: 101 Nonpartisan Solutions to All the Issues that Matter
by Ryan Clancy, Margaret White
I enjoyed reading the suggested practical solutions.
Source: 2019 NetGalley.
Click on book title for full description.



2. Pdf/Computer (eBook)
The Lady Lassoes an Outlaw: Western Historical Romance by [Raddon, Charlene]


The Lady Lassoes an Outlaw: Western Historical
by Charlene Raddon
I liked the story premise but felt the writing needs polishing.
Source: Review request received from Babs Book Bistro.
Click on book title for full description.



3. Audio/Smartphone (ATBR)



Morning Star
By: Pierce Brown
Narrator: Tim Gerard Reynolds
Series: Red Rising, Book 3
Length: 21 hrs and 50 mins
I have now passed my son except that he is rereading while I am on the first read for the full series. 
Lots of trauma and excitement!
Source: March 2018 Audible Credit.
Click on book title for full description.



4. eBook/Kindle (NG2019)
42589324


Nothing to Fear
by Juno Rushdan
I liked the suspense and the unique characters in this romance.
Source: 2019 NetGalley.
The clock is ticking.
Fearsome Gray Box operative Gideon Stone is devoted to his work and his team. He's never given reason to doubt his loyalty...until he's tasked with investigating Willow Harper, a beguiling cryptologist suspected of selling deadly bio-agents on the black market.
He knows she's innocent. He knows she's being framed. And he knows that without him, Willow will be dead before sunrise.
Thrust into the crossfire of an insidious international conspiracy, Gideon will do anything to keep Willow safe...even if that means waging war against his own. With time running out, an unlikely bond pushes limits—and forges loyalties. Every move they make counts. And the real traitor is always watching...



Currently Reading:
1. Audio/Smartphone (ATBR)



Disney Junior Storybook Collection
Sofia the First, Doc McStuffins, Jake and the Neverland Pirates, Mickey/Minnie, Henry Hugglemonster
By: Disney Book Group
Narrated by: Emily Woo Zeller
Length: 1 hr and 54 mins
I am listening to this with my granddaughter for quiet time before napping.
Source: 8/2//2017 Audible Book Sale $1.95.
Publisher's Summary
Explore Enchancia with Sofia the First, and sail the Never Sea with Jake and his crew. Help Doc diagnose her toy patients; hang out at the Clubhouse with Mickey, Minnie, and the rest of the gang; and have a roarsome time with Henry Hugglemonster! This fun-filled book features 18 stories starring your favorite Disney Junior pals!
©2016 Disney Book Group (P)2016 Blackstone Audio, Inc.



2. eBook/Kindle (eB2019)
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An Endless Christmas: A Novella
by Cynthia Ruchti
I am reading this for Ladies Book Club meeting 1/11/2020.
Source: Print books from Christianbooks.com; ebook from Amazon $3.95.
Award-winning novelist's heartwarming story about family and love lost, found, and finally truly revealed at Christmas.



3. eBook/Kindle (NG2019)
The Possibility of America: How the Gospel Can Mend Our God-Blessed, God-Forsaken Land by [Dark, David]
1

The Possibility of America
How the Gospel Can Mend Our God-Blessed,
God-Forsaken Land
by David Dark
As I watch the societal strife in America I pray for a calmer, kinder future.
I have chosen this as my First Book for 2020.
SOURCE: 2019 NetGalley.
Published in the years following 9/11, David Dark’s book The Gospel according to America warned American Christianity about the false worship that conflates love of country with love of God. It delved deeply into the political divide that had gripped the country and the cultural captivity into which so many American churches had fallen.

In our current political season, the problems Dark identified have blossomed. The assessment he brought to these problems and the creative resources for resisting them are now more important than ever. Into this new political landscape and expanding on the analysis of The Gospel according to America, Dark offers The Possibility of America: How the Gospel Can Mend Our God-Blessed, God-Forsaken Land. Dark expands his vision of a fractured yet redeemable American Christianity, bringing his signature mix of theological, cultural, and political analysis to white supremacy, evangelical surrender, and other problems of the Trump era.



4. Audio/Smartphone (ATBR)



The Green Ember
By: S. D. Smith
Narrated by: Joel Clarkson
Series: The Green Ember, Book 1
Length: 7 hrs and 55 mins
Unabridged Audiobook
Release date: 02-04-15 
My son encouraged me to read this series.
Source: Sharing with Son's Audible.
Publisher's Summary
Heather and Picket are extraordinary rabbits with ordinary lives until calamitous events overtake them, spilling them into a cauldron of misadventures. They discover that their own story is bound up in the tumult threatening to overwhelm the wider world.
Kings fall, and kingdoms totter. Tyrants ascend, and terrors threaten. Betrayal beckons, and loyalty is a broken road with peril around every bend.
Where will Heather and Picket land? How will they make their stand?
©2015 S. D. Smith (P)2015 Story Warren



5. Audio/Smartphone in Car (A2019)
The Oracle audiobook cover art


The Oracle
The Jubilean Mysteries Unveiled
By: Jonathan Cahn
Narrated by: Michael Beck
Length: 11 hrs and 54 mins
Release date: 11-07-19
This is on hold till our return drive later this week since I am listening with hubby.
Source: 2019 November Audible Credit.
Click on book title for full description.



December 29, 2019 - I am nearing the end of another year of devotions and readings with the One Year Bible plan through You Version App.
I hope to pick out a good plan to start the New Year as I start reading the Bible again!

I completed four books and posted two reviews. I have 5 reviews to post for the year end.
My NetGalley shelf is now at 14, plus the four titles from 2012-13 which are now planned for 2020. That is a total of 19 (including the one I am reading for First Read) which will go toward NetGalley and TBR and 11 Alphabet letters.
I still have two author titles carried into January 2020.
Still many titles through InstaFreebie and many new author requests 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 selected five "read now" NetGalley review titles.

I picked four free audios and three purchased.
I added 0 free kindle titles this week. (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
NetGalley "to read" selections:
I am planning on picking out just a couple more before year-end.
50038711. sx318 sy475 Archangel Rising (releasing January 14, 2020)
by Evan Currie
"Archangel Squadron faces off against the forces of the brutal Protectorate to claim a prize, and save humanity, in a gripping novel of deep space jeopardy by the author of the Odyssey One series."


18685735The Wolf at the End of the World
by Douglas Smith
"A shapeshifter hero battles ancient spirits, a covert government agency, and his own dark past in a race to solve a murder that could mean the end of the world."


45171925
I've Never Been This Old Before (Releasing February 4, 2020
by Stan Toler
"Older, Wiser, Funnier!"




48425700. sx318

Leo's Monster (Releasing May 5, 2020)
by Marcus Pfister


45726325

The Jumpgate
by Robert Stadnik




Won
NONE

Purchased
12/27/2019 Two for One Credit at Audiobooks.com.
Train to Impossible Places: A Cursed Delivery, P. G. BellThe Train to Impossible Places: A Cursed Delivery
Written By: P. G. Bell
Narrated By: Fiona Hardingham
Publisher: Blackstone Audiobooks
Date: October 2018
Duration: 7 hours 40 minutes

Mrs. Smith's Spy School for Girls, Beth McmullenMrs. Smith's Spy School for Girls
Written By: Beth Mcmullen
Narrated By: Kelsey Navarro
Publisher: Tantor Media
Date: October 2019
Duration: 5 hours 58 minutes

12/27/2019 Audible Daily Deal $3.95
Edge of Valor audiobook cover artEdge of Valor
By: Josh Hayes
Narrated by: Marc Vietor
Length: 9 hrs and 54 mins
Release date: 07-02-19


Free
12/24/2019 Two Free December Audible Originals
House of Teeth audiobook cover artHouse of Teeth
By: Dan Jolley
Narrated by: Josh Hurley
Length: 7 hrs and 15 mins
Release date: 12-05-19


Peter Pan audiobook cover artPeter Pan
An Audible Original Drama
By: J. M. Barrie
Narrated by: Adeel Akhtar, Rupert Everett, Gerran Howell, Eleanor Worthington-Cox
Length: 3 hrs and 17 mins
Release date: 12-05-19

12/24/19 Free Member download at ChristianAudio.com
Free Audiobook of the MonthOrthodoxy
Author G.K. Chesterton
Narrator Simon Vance
Runtime 6.5 Hrs. - Unabridged
Publisher christianaudio


12/27/2019 Audibooks.com VIP December Selection
Running with the Demon, Terry Brooks
Running with the Demon
Written By: Terry Brooks
Narrated By: George Wilson
Publisher: Recorded Books
Date: November 2013
Duration: 16 hours 37 minutes


I added 0 free Kindle titles to my Kindle library. Titles found linked through Bookbub, Bookfun, Ereader News Today, Free Par-tay, Ignite Your Book, Inspired Reads, Pixel of Ink or Kindle ebooks.

Sunday, December 29, 2019

Sunday Words of Encouragement December 29, 2019

We have bee enjoying a visit with our son, daughter-in-law, and grandchildren. Thankfully it has not been overly cold but still, I managed to get a cold for the first time this year. I slept late (and missed church) and I had a long nap this afternoon (longer than the kids) as I try to knock out the bug.
It is surprising that this is the last Sunday of 2019 as we prepare to enter 2020 on Wednesday!

I had picked this song to share today.
Verses for Today
Psalm 46:10-11 NIV
10 He says, “Be still, and know that I am God;
I will be exalted among the nations,
I will be exalted in the earth.”
11 The Lord Almighty is with us;
the God of Jacob is our fortress.


Saturday, December 28, 2019

Sharing Beyond Books #385 Comment Giveaway December 28, 2019

Hello again and Welcome back to Sharing Beyond Books, SBB.
This event won't be back until after the new year so I wish everyone a safe and Happy New Year going into 2020!
Thanks to everyone who commented last week.
Three commenters have no local library, three haven't been to the library in a long time so don't know what is offered; two don't know anything special at their library and four have active libraries with events for children and sometimes adults.

The Winner from SBB #384 comments is: #1 MIKI who can make a GC choice if international or book choice from the Updated (**Finally!) ARC/Review titles or (recently updated) Love and Christmas titles - all linked near the end of the post. -- [11/16/19 I plan to add some review books this week and maybe some new Christmas and Love titles as soon as I locate the box I put them in.  10/5/19 I have pulled some new books and will be adding them to the list in the next week or so.

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

WEEK #385
(One Question.)

Becky asks: Is there anything right now that you would change to make your day or week easier??
I thought this was a good question to ponder for the New Year. I have thought about ending this giveaway but I enjoy the sharing time with those who participate. I plan to continue to ponder the question.

Thanks to those who are sending in Questions. DON'T BE SHY! Surely everyone has a Q or two you'd like to ask. Input suggestions in this Suggested Question Form. At the end of each month, I draw from the suggestions I used during the month and that person will get a 1/2 book choice or $2.50 towards GC. I thank everyone for submitting questions. Thanks for sending in questions! The supply of questions is dwindling so share some if you think of any -- even if they are duplicates I'll weed through or try to modify.
December Questions were provided by Elizabeth and Becky who have each earned a full book choice.

Your turn to share. Becky asks: Is there anything right now that you would change to make your day or week easier??

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

SBB Rules:
a) Must be a follower.
b) Share a comment on the question above.
Open internationally and an international winner may get a smaller book or a $5.00 GC if I decide the mailing is too much.
I will pick a Comment winner from all comments made through Saturday, January 11, 2020, at 5 PM central.

Audio Book Review: Someone to Care by Mary Balogh

As usual, I enjoyed this Historical Romance by Mary Balogh.
Someone to Care
Written By: Mary Balogh
Narrated By: Rosalyn Landor
40045132. sx318
Publisher: Recorded Books
Date: May 2018
Duration: 11 hours 25 minutes
Genre: Historical Romance,Romance
My Rating: 4.0 of 5.0 Overall; Story 4.0; Narration 4.25.


Summary:
Once the Countess of Riverdale, Viola Kingsley throws all caution to the wind when adventure calls in the form of a handsome aristocrat. Two years after the death of the Earl of Riverdale, his family has overcome the shame of being stripped of their titles and fortune-except for his onetime countess, Viola. With her children grown and herself no longer part of the social whirl of the ton, she is uncertain where to look for happiness-until quite by accident her path crosses once again with that of the Marquess of Dorchester, Marcel Lamarr. Marcel Lamarr has been a notorious womanizer since the death of his wife nearly twenty years earlier. Viola caught his eye when she herself was a young mother, but she evaded his seduction at the time. A prize that eluded him before, she is all the more irresistible to him now although he is surprised to discover that she is as eager now for the excitement he offers as he is himself. When the two defy convention and run away together, they discover that the ties of respectability are not so easily severed, and pleasure can ensnare you when you least expect it.


Review:
Viola Kingsley has been dealing with the revelation on the death of her husband the Earl of Riverdale, that her marriage was invalid and her children were born out of wedlock. Although the Earl’s true heir is willing to share the estate fortune, Viola has stayed apart and quiet. Her eldest daughter has made a new life and marriage that she is happy with. Her son has taken a commission in the army and her youngest daughter, soon of age to enter society, is still at home with Viola. After a family gathering Viola has a private meltdown. She takes off on her own, not even taking one of the family carriages.

When the rented conveyance results in her being stranded at a nondescript country inn, Viola is surprised to see someone she knows across the room. Marcel Lamarr had flirted with Viola 15 years before but she had told him to go away. Her first marriage was arranged by her father and there was no love between Viola and the Earl but Viola has always been proper and stayed in her duties and circumstances. Viola has accepted that she may not be destined to have a “happy ever after.”

Marcel is a rake who doesn’t believe he is entitled to a normal married life. Marcel sends his brother on home without him so that he can approach Viola. He proposes that they ‘run away’ for a few weeks and to his surprise she agrees.

Marcel isn’t the easiest character to like but Viola is able to pull him out of his shell. I enjoyed their growing relationship and the dilemma they find themselves in when their families discover their tryst. Although these characters flout convention, as usual, Balogh creates a situation of conflict that resolves into a HEA. I recommend this author and this story to those who enjoy historical romance.

Audio Notes: Rosalyn Landor is a wonderful narrator for this genre. Her accents fit the characters and she is able to give each one a voice and fitting personality. I enjoyed listening to this novel.

Source: July 2019 Audiobooks.com two for one credit. This qualifies for 2019Audiobook goal.

Friday, December 27, 2019

#NetGalley Book Review: Strands of Truth by Colleen Coble

This is a good Christian Romantic Suspense.
Strands of Truth
by Colleen Coble
42757881. sy475
File Size: 5603 KB
Print Length: 337 pages
Page Numbers Source ISBN: 0718085884

Publisher: Thomas Nelson (September 10, 2019)
Genre: Christian, Romantic Suspense
My Rating: 4.25 of 5.0.


Suspense, romance, and generational secrets meld in this engrossing new novel from USA TODAY bestselling author Colleen Coble.
Strands of Harper Taylor’s childhood are resurfacing—but will the truth save her . . . or pull her under?
Harper Taylor is used to being alone— after all, she grew up in one foster home after another. Oliver Jackson finally took her under his wing when she was a runaway teenager, and now Harper pours her marine biology knowledge into Oliver’s pen shell research. But she’s never stopped wishing for a family of her own.
So when a DNA test reveals a half-sister living just two hours away, Harper is both hopeful and nervous. Over warm cinnamon rolls, Harper and Annabelle find striking similarities in their stories. Is it just a coincidence that both their mothers died tragically, without revealing Harper and Annabelle’s father’s name?
Oliver’s son Ridge still sees Harper as a troubled teen even all these years later. But when Oliver is attacked, Ridge and Harper find themselves working together to uncover dangerous secrets that threaten to destroy them all. They must unravel her past before they can have any hope for the future.


Review:
Harper’s mother died when she was born, and Harper struggled in foster care. As a thieving fifteen-year-old, she was surprised when Oliver Jackson took her under his wing. His own children, Ridge and Willow were not happy about the attention their father gave to this wild child, not really recognizing all the gifts they took for granted. Oliver has remained Harper’s mentor and support as she pursues her marine research involving pen shells.

Now, aged 30. Harper is determined to have her own family so, with no boyfriend in sight, she is hoping to get pregnant by fertility implantation. Oliver isn’t thrilled by this decision but once again he is there to support her. He has tried to help her discover her biological father but with little success.

Harper has finally found a DNA match in Annabelle who appears to be an older sister. They had different mother’s and neither knows their father. As they begin to share their histories and the accidents that led to the deaths of their mothers, they become more determined to uncover the identity of their father.

However, they didn’t realize that their probing would bring trouble. Suddenly Oliver is attacked, then Harper. It isn’t clear what the motive is for the attacks, but Ridge is prepared to stand by and protect his father and Harper. The more time he spends with Harper, the more he realizes that she honestly cares for his father and wasn’t just out to get a free ride.

When Annabelle is kidnapped Harper and Ridge become even more concerned. They are joined by Annabelle’s sons, one of whom is a police officer, in searching the old files for any clues.

The story has plenty of personal conflict and tension, as well as a mystery with leads to keep them moving and asking questions. I liked both Harper and Ridge as characters and was glad when they began to work together. I enjoyed the mystery plot set in Florida and the interesting tidbits about the pen shells. I also liked the faith that gives a firm foundation to the main characters.

I have read several books by Colleen Coble and I enjoy her clean style, well-written suspense and romance and the faith elements in her writing. I recommend this to readers who enjoy romantic suspense.

Source: 2019 NetGalley. This qualifies for 2019NetGalley goal.

Martha's Bookshelf***Friday Pick Giveaway December 27, 2019

Happy last 2019 Friday!  

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 December 20, 2019 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 December 20, 2019 Pick:
DI gets Fascination by Stella Cameron (Body of Evidence remains available.)
and
ASHFA 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.}
Seasonal Slogans for Bulletin Boards and Displays | Beyond Survival in a School Library
I hope you had lovely celebrations and maybe some good reading!
Image found at Pinterest shared by Beyond Survival in a School Library.


New Book Group #88 November 8, 2019
PAIRS:
Connie Brockway: My Pleasure and My Seduction
Stella Cameron: Body of Evidence and Fascination
Singles:
A Notorious Proposition by Adele Ashworth
My Lord and Spymaster by Joanna Bourne
A Lady Never Tells by Candace Camp
Dawn of Redemption by Starla Childs
Long, Lean and Lethal by Heather Graham
False Colours by Georgette Heyer
Chill of Fear by Kay Hooper
Treasures by Lisa Jackson (hardback)
No Limits by Alison Kent
The Education of Mrs. Brimley by Donna MacMeans
The Wedding Affair by Leigh Michaels
A Highlander's Temptation by Sue-Ellen Welfonder


New Book Group #87 August 23, 2019
PAIRS:
Joan Johnston The Bodyguard and The Bridegroom
Nora Roberts: The MacGregor Grooms (1998) and The MacGregor Brides (1997)
SINGLES:
Siren's Song by Trish Albright (personally autographed)
Dawn Encounter by Jennifer Blake
Flame Lily by Candace Camp (spine creasing)
The Wedding Promise by Carolyn Davidson
The Devil's Daughter by Lara Drewry
Touch of Texas by Tracy Garrett (now Texas Gold)
Captain's Paradise by Kay Hooper
Open Season by Linda Howard AUDIO CASSETTES
Innocent as Sin by Elizabeth Lowell (hardback)
Tempt Me by Lucy Monroe
Abandon by Carla Neggers
The Perfect Gift by Christina Skye


New Book Group #86 June 7, 2019
Another group of variety from my shelves.
SINGLES:
Forged in Steel by Maya Banks
The Scam by Janet Evanovich and Lee Goldberg
A Place Called Freedom by Ken Follett
Eco-Sisters: The Car by P. Ryan Hembree and Mary Ann Gustin
Forget Me Not by Vicki Hinze
Preaching to the Corpse by Roberta Isleib
Show No Fear by Marliss Melton
Pursuit by Karen Robards
Murder at Granite Falls by Roxanne Rustand
A Question of God's Balance (Vol 1) by Joseph Thek
King by Right of Blood and Might by Anna L. Walls


New Book Group #85 March 22, 2019
A variety from my shelves.

Roxanne Becknel: When Lightning Strikes
SINGLES:
Summer Skies by Judith Christenberry
Windfall (two stories) by JoAnn Ross
Daddy's Little Cowgirl (two stories) by Judith Bowen and Kimberly Raye
Almost Forever by Linda Howard
The Forever Year, Cold Pursuit, Lover's Lane and Temporary Sanity (Reader's Condensed)
ToxiCity by Libby Fischer Hillmann

New Book Group #84 December 15, 2018
Here are some Christmas titles to pick from.
One PAIR:
Susan Wiggs: Snowfall and Fireside
SINGLES:
A Family for Thanksgiving
On this Holy Night
A Rancher for Christmas
Christmas Haven
Christmas Homecoming
King Harold's Snow Job


New Book Group #83 November 30, 2018
(Starting bottom left and continuing up then down)
SINGLE
Seductive Secrets by Lynne Connolly
Seven Up by Janet Evanovich - Audio Cassettes
A Good Walk Spoiled by John Feinstein Audio Cassettes
Three Reader's Digest Condensed Books - each hardback:
Cold Harbour and The Courtship of Peggy McCoy
The Things We Do for Love, Three Weeks With My Brother, The Murder Artist and Night Train to Lisbon
Follow the Stars Home, Hunting Badger, The Quiet Game and Second Wind

New Book Group #82 November 9, 2018

Stella Cameron: Key West
SINGLES:
Magic Strikes by Ilona Andrews
Killing Time by Linda Howard
Countess of Scandal by Laurel McKee
The Wedding Night by Barbara Dawson Smith

New Book Group #81 August 17, 2018
There are three audios at the top:
Kisscut is Cassettes
SINGLES
Best Laid Plans by Allison Brennan
Darkness Tell Us by Richard Laymon
Cooking Most Deadly by Joanne Pence


New Book Group #80 August 17, 2018
Note: The Final Judgment and
The Book of Fate are Audio Cassettes
PAIRS
James Patterson NYPD Red 2 and NYPD Red 3
SINGLES:
Summer’s Moon by Lacey Baker
The Final Judgment by Richard North PattersonAudio Cassettes
Firebird by Janice Graham
No Getting Over a Cowboy by Delores Fossen
The Book of Fate by Brad Meltzer Audio Cassettes


New Book Group #79 July 13, 2018
I found this box of books buried under some other boxes.
The Vanishing Act of Esme Lenox by Maggie O’Farrell
P.S. by Helen Schulman
Her Sexiest Surprise by Dawn Atkins (personally autographed)
The Maverick Preacher by Victoria Bylin (personally autographed)
Dakota Child by Linda Ford
Calling the Shots by Ellen Hartman
Promises, Promises by Amber Miller
This Time for Keeps by Jenna Mills
A Daughter’s Legacy by Virginia Smith
Another Man’s Baby by Kay Stockham


New Book Group #78 April 27, 2018
SINGLES
Blackberry Bush
Breaking Point
A Tangled Affair
To Wicked to Love
Roses are Red Audio Cassettes


New Book Group #77 February 16, 2018- All gone

New Book Group #76 November 3, 2017
13 books remain of the original 37:
I finally Have them Listed!
Boots & Booties by Kristine Rolofson
Saucer the Conquest by Stephen Coonts
The Scorpion Seducer by Bonnie Vanak
Hell On Earth by David L. Porter
White Night by Jim Butcher
Riders of the Purple Sage by Zane Grey
The Glimpses of the Moon by Edith Wharton
Crisscross by Harmon Henkin
Maelstrom by Anne McCaffrey
Inhuman Condition by Clive Barker
101 Commonsense Rules for the Office by John R. Brinkerhoff


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 by Jillian Hart

Aunt Erma's Cope Book
JoAnn Ross: Confessions
The Eye of the World by Robert Jordan
Bound by Destiny by Rayka Mennen
Rainbow Mars by Larry Niven


(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 NINE years I have posted 88 groups of 16 plus an additional 21 totaling 1,429 books to find new homes! (as of November 8, 2019).

I am happy to say that so far about 1,292+ books have found new homes through this feature! YAY. [A year 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!

Tuesday, December 24, 2019

Christmas Music to Enjoy

Image result for Christmas Eve
I found this Christmas Collection that is quite nice so I am sharing today as we prepare to celebrate the most important gift in our lives - the birth of Christ.

Monday, December 23, 2019

Sunday Post December 22, 2019/It's Monday! What are You Reading? Plus Mailbox Monday December 23, 2019

Sunday Post #318 Chairs, Compliance, and Storms
I am linking with Sunday Post at Caffeinated Book Reviewer.

It's Monday! What Are You Reading now at The Book Date (at Wordpress)?
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.




The staff and I had a very busy week! I was successful in my trial on Friday and finished earlier than expected. That gave me time to wrap up most of the rest of the items I wanted to finish before vacationing.

I am glad I saw the eye doctor. My eye was not quite ulcerated but decidedly scratched up. He provided antibiotic drops and daily lenses for 10 days. These and eye drops have certainly helped the irratation.
This is an image from our car as we were driving north on I55 to Illinois.
Having lived in Florida since 1963 I still find snow interesting when I see it stretching out in the distance like this.

The temperatures as we drove were in low to mid-50s so it wasn't too bad. The problem was it rained most of Saturday so hubby did that 7 hour drive. I drove about an hour and a half of today's 6 and a half hours.
I enjoyed my reading and extra listening this past week. I finished one NetGalley and three audiobooks.   I posted three reviews and my usual memes.

I visited 16 blogs last week.
Shout Out this week to ALL MY BLOG FRIENDS: MAY YOU HAVE A BLESSED HOLIDAY WEEK!
Thank you to all the nice people who visit me.

These were last week's posts:
  • A2019- Audio Book Review: The Dogs of Christmas by W. Bruce Cameron; Genre: Animals, Dogs, Holiday, Romance; My Rating: 4.0 of 5.0 Overall; Story 4.0; Narration 4.25.
  • ATBR- Audible Book Review: Orphan X by Gregg Hurwitz; Genre: Crime Thriller, Suspense; My Rating: 4.5 of 5.0 Overall; Story 4.5; Narration 4.5.

Finished Reading:
1. eBook/Kindle (NG2019)
42757881. sy475


Strands of Truth
by Colleen Coble
This is good Christian Romantic Suspense.
Source: 2019 NetGalley.
Click on book title for full description.



2. Audio/Smartphone (ATBR)



Orphan X
By: Gregg Hurwitz
Narrated by: Scott Brick
Series: Evan Smoak, Book 1
Length: 11 hrs and 15 mins
This is a remarkably entertaining suspense with good twists.
Source: February 2017 $4.95 Sale purchase at Audible.
Click on book title for full description.



3. Audio/Smartphone (A2019)
40045132. sx318


Someone to Care
Written By: Mary Balogh
Narrated By: Rosalyn Landor
Publisher: Recorded Books
Date: May 2018
Duration: 11 hours 25 minutes
As usual, I enjoyed this Historical Romance by Mary Balogh.
I picked this because I have another one in the series to read on NetGalley.
Source: July 2019 Audiobooks.com two for one credit.
Summary:
Once the Countess of Riverdale, Viola Kingsley throws all caution to the wind when adventure calls in the form of a handsome aristocrat.. Two years after the death of the Earl of Riverdale, his family has overcome the shame of being stripped of their titles and fortune-except for his onetime countess, Viola. With her children grown and herself no longer part of the social whirl of the ton, she is uncertain where to look for happiness-until quite by accident her path crosses once again with that of the Marquess of Dorchester, Marcel Lamarr. Marcel Lamarr has been a notorious womanizer since the death of his wife nearly twenty years earlier. Viola caught his eye when she herself was a young mother, but she evaded his seduction at the time. A prize that eluded him before, she is all the more irresistible to him now although he is surprised to discover that she is as eager now for the excitement he offers as he is himself. When the two defy convention and run away together, they discover that the ties of respectability are not so easily severed, and pleasure can ensnare you when you least expect it.



4. Audio/Smartphone (A2019)
49754007. sx318


12 Days at Bleakly Manor
Once Upon a Dickens Christmas, Book 1
By: Michelle Griep
Narrated by: Nan McNamara
Length: 5 hrs and 35 mins
This is a haunted house Christmas Romance which I read and enjoyed for Ladies Book Club.
Source: December 2019 Audible Sale purchase $5.24.
Publisher's Summary
A mysterious invitation to spend Christmas at an English manor home may bring danger...and love?
England, 1851: When Clara Chapman receives an intriguing invitation to spend Christmas at an English manor home, she is hesitant yet feels compelled to attend - for if she remains the duration of the 12 day celebration, she is promised a sum of 1,000 pounds.
But is she walking into danger? It appears so, especially when she comes face to face with one of the other guests - her former fiancé, Benjamin Lane.
Imprisoned unjustly, Ben wants revenge on whoever stole his honor. When he's given the chance to gain his freedom, he jumps at it - and is faced with the anger of the woman he stood up at the altar. Brought together under mysterious circumstances, Clara and Ben discover that what they've been striving for isn't what ultimately matters.
What matters most is what Christmas is all about...love.
Pour a cup of tea and settle in for book 1 of the Once upon a Dickens Christmas series - -a pause-resisting Victorian-era holiday tale by Michelle Griep, a listener and critic favorite.
©2017 Shiloh Run Press (P)2017 Oasis Audio



Currently Reading:
1. Pdf/Computer (eBook)
The Lady Lassoes an Outlaw: Western Historical Romance by [Raddon, Charlene]


The Lady Lassoes an Outlaw: Western Historical
by Charlene Raddon
It is a little lot slow for me to read on the computer. I am 89% - nearly finished.
Source: Review request received from Babs Book Bistro.
Click on book title for full description.



2. eBook/Kindle (NG2019)
47482578. sy475


The Ultimate Guide to the 2020 Election: 101 Nonpartisan Solutions to All the Issues that Matter
by Ryan Clancy, Margaret White
I am finding this very interesting -- filled with good suggestions if only our leaders would set aside power struggles and listen to practical solutions.
Source: 2019 NetGalley.
Will Donald Trump’s Southern Border Wall actually make our country safer? How much will Bernie Sanders’s and Elizabeth Warren’s Medicare for All plan really cost American taxpayers? Can Cory Booker’s and Kamala Harris’s ideas for debt-free college revive the American dream?
You’ll find the answers in this book. With the 2020 US presidential election looming, the emerging contest doesn’t seem so much a battle of ideas as it does a war of two tribes bent on the other’s destruction. The Far Left and Far Right increasingly dominate and drive America’s political debate, leaving a majority of Americans feeling left out and left behind. The Ultimate Guide to the 2020 Election gives a voice to this majority and provides an unbiased education on the true nature of the problems America faces on several key issues, including:
• Health Care
• Energy & Climate Change
• Infrastructure
• Big Tech & Privacy
• The American Dream
• Immigration
• The National Debt
• Gun Safety
Beyond these policy issues, No Labels senior advisors Ryan Clancy and Margaret White present ideas for rescuing American democracy itself. Complete with sample questions for the 2020 presidential candidates and an inclusive Unity Agenda that addresses concerns on both sides of the aisle, this nonpartisan political handbook should be required reading for all US voters.



3. Audio/Smartphone (ATBR)



Morning Star
By: Pierce Brown
Narrator: Tim Gerard Reynolds
Series: Red Rising, Book 3
Length: 21 hrs and 50 mins
I got my son into this series and I knew he had passed me so I thought I would catch up.
I found out tonight that he is reading the series a second time and is still ahead of me in Book 3.
Source: March 2018 Audible Credit.
Publisher's Summary
Darrow would have lived in peace, but his enemies brought him war. The Gold overlords demanded his obedience, hanged his wife, and enslaved his people. But Darrow is determined to fight back. Risking everything to transform himself and breach Gold society, Darrow has battled to survive the cutthroat rivalries that breed Society's mightiest warriors, climbed the ranks, and waited patiently to unleash the revolution that will tear the hierarchy apart from within.
Finally, the time has come.
But devotion to honor and hunger for vengeance run deep on both sides. Darrow and his comrades-in-arms face powerful enemies without scruple or mercy. Among them are some Darrow once considered friends. To win, Darrow will need to inspire those shackled in darkness to break their chains, unmake the world their cruel masters have built, and claim a destiny too long denied - and too glorious to surrender.
©2016 Pierce Brown (P)2016 Recorded Books



4. Audio/Smartphone in Car (A2019)
The Oracle audiobook cover art


The Oracle
The Jubilean Mysteries Unveiled
By: Jonathan Cahn
Narrated by: Michael Beck
Length: 11 hrs and 54 mins
Release date: 11-07-19
My husband picked this up in print but wanted to listen during our long drive too.
Source: 2019 November Audible Credit.
Publisher's Summary
New York Times and USA Today Best Seller!
Discover the amazing secret of the ages...and the mystery of your life!
The Oracle will reveal the mystery behind everything...the past, the present, current events, even what is yet to come! Open the seven doors of revelation - and prepare to be blown away!
Jonathan Cahn, author of the New York Times best sellers The Harbinger, The Mystery of the Shemitah, The Book of Mysteries, and The Paradigm, now unveils The Oracle, in which he opens up the Jubilean mysteries and a revelation so big that it lies behind everything from the rise and fall of nations and empires (even America), to the current events of our day, to the future, to end-time prophecy, and much more.
Could an ancient prophecy and a mysterious ordinance given in a Middle Eastern desert over three thousand years ago be determining the events of our day?
Could some of the most famous people of modern history and current events be secretly linked to this mystery-even a modern president of the United States?
Could this ancient revelation pinpoint the events of our times down to the year, month, and day of their occurring?
Could a mysterious phenomenon be manifesting on the world stage on an exact timetable determined from ancient times?
Could these manifestations have altered-and now be altering-the course of world events?
Jonathan Cahn takes the listener on a journey to find the man called the Oracle. One by one each of the Jubilean mysteries will be revealed through the giving of a vision. The Oracle will uncover the mysteries of The Stranger, The Lost City, The Man with the Measuring Line, The Land of Seven Wells, The Birds, The Number of the End, The Man in the Black Robe, The Prophet's Song, The Matrix of Years, The Day of the Lions, The Awakening of the Dragon, and much more.
The listener will discover the ancient scrolls that contain the appointed words that have determined the course of world history from the onset of modern times up to our day. The revelation is so big that it will involve and open up the mysteries of everything and everyone from Mark Twain to Moses, from King Nebuchadnezzar to Donald Trump, from the fall of empires to the rise of America, from a mystery hidden in a desert cave to another in an ancient scroll, from the palace of the Persian Empire to the US Senate, from the Summer of Love to the Code of Babylon, and much, much more.
Ultimately the Oracle will reveal the secret that lies behind end-time prophecy and the mystery of the end of the age.
As with The Harbinger and The Book of Mysteries, Cahn reveals the mysteries through a narrative. A traveler is given seven keys; each will open up one of seven doors. Behind each door lies a stream of mysteries. The reader will be taken on a journey of angels and prophetic revelations waiting to be discovered behind each of the seven doors - the ancient secrets that lie behind the world-changing events of modern times - and revelations of what is yet to come.
Hailed as a mind-blowing masterpiece, The Oracle will reveal mysteries that are absolutely real, amazing, stunning, mind-blowing, and life-changing.
Prepare to be blown away.
©2019 Jonathan Cahn (P)2019 Frontline



December 22, 2019 - I am nearing the end of another year of devotions and readings with the One Year Bible plan through You Version App.
I finished a seven-day plan this week: Joy Upon Joy, with Charles Spurgeon.

I completed four books and posted three reviews. I am up-to-date on reviews.
My NetGalley shelf is still at 10. I am reading one and added one. [Plus I have 4 old titles (2012-13) which I guess are moving into 2020.]
I still have two author titles that I expect to carry into January 2020.
Still many titles through InstaFreebie and many new author requests 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 NetGalley review title.
I picked up two Audible titles on credit and one Chirp title.
I added 0 free kindle titles this week. (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
NetGalley title received:
47590121The Finders
A Mystery (Mace Reid K-9 Mystery Book 1)
by Jeffrey B. Burton

I am pretty sure I saw this on the blog visits this week but I am not sure where.



Won
NONE

Purchased
12/17/19 Two November Audible Credits
The Oracle audiobook cover artThe Oracle
The Jubilean Mysteries Unveiled
By: Jonathan Cahn
Narrated by: Michael Beck
Length: 11 hrs and 54 mins
Release date: 11-07-19
See above under current reading for full description.

Promises to Keep: After the EMP audiobook cover artPromises to Keep: After the EMP
Disruption Trilogy Book 3
By: R.E. McDermott
Narrated by: Kevin Pierce
Length: 14 hrs and 13 mins
Release date: 10-05-17
Book 3 to continue this series.

12/19/2019 Chirp purchase $1.99

Pathfinder's Way
A Novel of The Broken Lands
Written by T. A. White
Narrated by Christa Lewis
This sounds good.


Free
I added 0 free Kindle titles to my Kindle library. Titles found linked through Bookbub, Bookfun, Ereader News Today, Free Par-tay, Ignite Your Book, Inspired Reads, Pixel of Ink or Kindle ebooks.

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