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Tuesday, November 30, 2021

Audible Book Review: Shattered Worlds, Koban Volume 4 by Stephen W Bennett

This is long but full of action, likeable characters and interesting tech details.
Shattered Worlds
Koban, Volume 4
By: Stephen W Bennett
Narrated by: Eric Michael Summerer

Shattered Worlds  By  cover art

Length: 31 hrs and 26 mins
Release date: 04-16-15
Publisher: Stephen W Bennett
Genre: Aliens, Colonization, Military Space Sci-Fi
My Rating: 4.5 of 5.0 Overall; Story 4.5; Narration 4.5


Publisher's Summary
The Kobani continue their offensives against the Krall, attacking production worlds and destroying or stealing ships from the Krall fleet, which the enemy needs to resupply their invasions. The Kobani create a multispecies settlement on Haven, a gentler habitable world near deadly Koban. They gain the trust and technological assistance of freed former Krall slave species, the Torki, Prada, and resurrected Raspani. Their ranks and Mind Tap learned skills are increased by spec ops recruits from Human Space.
Mirikami engineers an assault on the Krall base world, K1, in cooperation with a skeptical human navy by sharing new technology, revealing Kobani physical capabilities, and providing intelligence on new Krall invasion plans. Despite knowing the Kobani use illegal gene mods, the navy high command decides to hit the Krall first, with the help of their secretive, tough Kobani ally. After the attack a mauled Krall fleet still heavily outnumbers the navy, and the damaged human fleet withdraws.
A vengeful Krall warlord, the Kobani old nemesis Telour, summons an ancient Olt'kitapi ship that can shatter an entire planet. He has a devious plan for remote strikes that will initiate delayed deaths on multiple human worlds, all before a ship imbued with morality can learn it has been been duped. Telour wants the home world of humanity to see death approaching one world at a time.
Mirikami expected a strong Krall reaction but not this extreme. He scrambles to head off the inexorable destruction of multiple planets. Failing to save some worlds, he is the final hope for billions of people on others. The Kobani will need the strength and speed their genes provide plus luck to save humanity.
Book one: Koban; book two: Koban: The Mark of Koban; book three: Koban: Rise of the Kobani.
©2014 Stephen W Bennett (P)2015 Stephen W Bennett


Review:
This continues the story of the genetically enhanced humans who call themselves Kobani. The Kobani have made friends and allies with other species who have previously been terrorized or enslaved by the brutal alien race known as Kralls. The Torki, Prada, and Raspani are willing to share their superior technology and skills to help the Kobani fight the Krall.

Rather than wait for the Kralls to slowly annihilate the human race, the Kobani have taken the offensive trying to destroy Krall ships, weapons and supplies in an effort to slow them down. They have already teamed up with some Special Ops troops of the human race, but now the Kobani find that they must convince the human authorities and PU (Planetary Union) military to fight with them. That means revealing their new mind tap skills and other genetic enhancements to the humans, who had previously banned genetic modifications.

After attacking several of the Krall production planets, Mirakami, the leader of the Kobani, plans a raid on the Krall base world, K-1. He knows that a new Krall leader is being installed but Mirakami doesn’t realize it is his old nemesis, Telour. In response to the attack on K-1, Telour convinces the counsel to allow him to use one of the few remaining ancient Olt'kitapi ships to destroy several human planets, including Earth. The plan is tricky because the Olt'kitapi ships were designed to build new worlds, not destroy them.

Mirakami and his fleet must race to try to stop the ancient ship from shattering four human worlds. When he is unable to save the first world will the human president be prepared to focus blame on the genetically ‘criminal’ Kobanis?

I was concerned about the length of this book but it turned out it kept me engaged. There is plenty of action and strategic war maneuvering that made it interesting. There is also some snarky humor thrown in to break up the tense trauma and losses. There are some sections of physic discussions and weapon or ship discussions which could have moved faster but overall, I feel invested in the fate of the Kobani and want to continue the series. I recommend this to fans of alien encounter, space military but do suggest starting with book one in the series.

Audio Notes: Eric Michael Summerer does a great job with the narration. He provides distinct voices for the males, females and a variety of alien species. He also provides good energy and even makes the scientifically technical sections move along well. I enjoy listening to this series.

Source: October 2020 Audible Credit. This qualifies for 2021TBR and 2021Audiobook goals.
Koban, Volume 1 - My Rating 4.5
Koban: The Mark of Koban, Koban Volume 2 - My Rating 5.0
Koban: Rise of the Kobani, Koban Volume 3 - My Rating 4.5

Sunday, November 28, 2021

Sunday Post November 28, 2021/It's Monday! What are You Reading? Plus Mailbox Monday November 29, 2021

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.


We are enjoying our visit and had a lovely Thanksgiving with our son and his family. Our daughter-in-law made a beautiful turkey and the spread included green bean casserole, sweet potatoes, homemade cranberry sauce (yum), gravy, and rolls (not in picture).



The weather is cooler than we are used to (20s to 45) so hubby and I have only been out of the house for church since arriving last Sunday.

I enjoyed my listening last week and finished two (almost three) audiobooks. I posted two reviews and my usual memes.

I visited 18 blogs last week.
Shout Out this week to Budget Tales Book Blog. Emily Jane is a full time mum who loves to read and review on Goodreads and Instagram She shares “mainly library books and cheap/free kindle books so that no matter what your budget you can enjoy reading!”

Audible offerings for free children's titles ended June 30.
Audiobooks.com is still sharing some free listens for children.

These were last week's posts:
  • ATBR- Audio Book Review: Mysterious Abduction by Rita Herron; Genre: Crime, Mystery, Romantic Suspense; My Rating: 4.0 of 5.0 Overall; Story 4.0; Narration 4.25.
Finished Reading:
1. Audible/Smartphone (ATBR)
Shattered Worlds  By  cover art


Shattered Worlds
Koban, Volume 4
By: Stephen W Bennett
Narrated by: Eric Michael Summerer
Length: 31 hrs and 26 mins
This is long but full of action and interesting tech details.
Source: October 2020 Audible Credit

Click on book title for full description.



2. Audible/Smartphone (A2021)
Tracking Magic  By  cover art


Tracking Magic: Rylee Adamson, Book 0.25
By: Shannon Mayer
Narrated by: Lauren Fortgang
Length: 1 hr and 4 mins
This is a quick prequel to help me decide on the series. I liked everything except the "F" words.
7/19/2021 I picked this from the Audible Plus Catalog.

Publisher's Summary
My name is Rylee, and I am a Tracker.
When children go missing, and the Humans have no leads, I'm the one they call. I am their last hope in bringing home the lost ones. I salvage what they cannot. A missing girl and a deadly item belonging to a power-mad demon need to be found before the killing begins.
The problem? This is my first salvage. And I have no idea what I'm doing. These were the moments that began to define me, my skills, and my drive to face down the darkest side of the supernatural in order to bring children home. This is where my journey began....
Tracking Magic is a prequel to the Rylee Adamson series.
©2015 Shannon Mayer (P)2021 Podium Audio



Currently Reading:
1. Audio/Smartphone (ATBR)
A Nancy Drew Christmas


A Nancy Drew Christmas
Written by Carolyn Keene
Narrated by Jorjeana Marie
Run time: 6 hours and 24 minutes
I am more than halfway
and enjoying this light mystery.
Source: 1/20/2020 Chirp Purchase $.99.

Publisher Description
Nancy finds herself a Christmas mystery in this super special eighteenth book of the Nancy Drew Diaries series, a fresh approach to the classic mystery series.
Nancy Drew’s dad surprises her with a trip to a beautiful New England ski resort for Christmas break. Nancy is so excited. What could be better than a whole week of skiing and five-star dining?
But no vacation can go smoothly when Nancy is involved. On her very first run down the slopes, Nancy hits a bad patch of ice and takes a serious tumble. A doctor sends her back to the hotel in a cast and mandates twelve days of bed rest. That means no long car trips back to River Heights and twelve days of sitting around. Luckily, there’s still the five-star dining and beautiful views.
Just hours into her convalescence, Nancy witnesses something very suspicious through another hotel room window. And when she presses the concierge she learns there have been mysterious break-ins throughout the hotel. It’s clear someone has been going into guest’s rooms but, as far as anyone can tell, nothing has been taken. Nancy can’t resist-she has to investigate. Only trouble is, she’s still bed bound.
Taking some cues from Home Alone’s Kevin McCallister, Nancy devises some clever schemes to get her investigating done from her bed. But for all her plans, Nancy still can’t find the source of the break-ins. Or the purpose. What’s worse the mood of the hotel has turned decidedly un-merry. People are leaving in droves and the jolly hotel owner is worried about the hotel’s success.
With all the odds stacked against her, can Nancy solve this crime in time to save Christmas? Or is this one Yuletide she’ll wish to forget?



2. Audible/Smartphone (ATBR)
The Ranch: Jack Sterlings Legacy  By  cover art


The Ranch: Jack Sterlings Legacy
The Legacy Series, Book 1
By: Sean Liscom
Narrated by: Christopher Lane
Length: 13 hrs and 16 mins
Release date: 01-09-20
I decided to try the first in this series to see if I want to pick up more.
12/17/2020 Audible $5.00 Sale.

Publisher's Summary
Post-apocalyptic fiction by Sean Liscom.
Jason Sterling had a simple life by all accounts. He had worked the same job his entire adult life, he had never married, and he had no children. He was used to doing things on his own. His comfortable life was shaken to the core the day he learned of his fathers death. It was a mysterious meeting that set life-altering events in motion, and the allure of a new life was too great to walk away from. When an electromagnetic pulse brings the modern world to its knees, Jason's choice proves to be the right one.
©2019 Sean Liscomb (P)2019 Creative Texts Publishers, LLC



3. ebook/Kindle App on Phone (ebTBR)
23676904


A Place Called Armageddon: Constantinople 1453
by C.C. Humphreys
I still like the writing style. I am 20% in so far.
Source: 2012 NetGalley.

Click on book title for full description.



I have another book, LikeWar, from my son but I am not sure I can transfer it to my MP3 as it looks like I forgot that media connector.

November 28, 2021 - I am back on track. I love seeing new things each time I read the Bible. I am glad to still be current with morning reading. I am reading/listening to the NLT Tyndale version of the Bible on You Version App so Hubby and I are reading the same passages each day.
No Study yet this week.


I completed two books for reviews to post this week.
My NetGalley shelf now has 2 old ebooks titles and one new audio.
I still have two author titles remaining in queue. I'm still working on reading these.
(Plus a few that I received from facebook links and newsletter sign-ups, not specific review requests.)
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: Serena of Savvy Verse & Wit, me and new to the team, Velvet at vvb32reads. Warning: Mailbox Monday can lead to envy, toppling TBR piles and humongous wish lists.

I requested/received no review titles this week.
I picked up my Audiobooks.com VIP for November.
I found two audio titles for small price at Chirp this week.
I picked up six free Kindle titles.

(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
11/27/21 Two titles at Chirp:
Daughter of Time
Written by Sarah Woodbury
Narrated by Laurel Schroeder

Run Time 9h 10min
$9.99 $0.99
Fear Has a Name
Written by Creston Mapes
Narrated by Paul Michael

Run Time 9h 35min
$20.99 $1.99


Free
11/28/2021 Audiobooks.com November VIP selection:
The Traveller and Other Stories
The Traveller and Other Stories
Author Stuart Neville
Narrator: Gerard Doyle

Duration: 7 h 20 min


I have six new kindle titles this week - one from an author and others found at another blog.
The Naturalist, Episode 1: The Shopkeeper's Boy
Brooke Hatchett

No More Tears (A Town Without Pity Book 1)
Sandy Appleyard

A Whyte Christmas (The Happy Holidays Series Book 1)
Michele Brouder, Jessica Peirce

I'm glad I found you this Christmas: A warmhearted and feel-good Christmas holiday romance set in Scotland (Delightful Christmas Book 1)
CP Ward

An Heirloom Christmas
Misty M. Beller, Linda Ford, Robin Lee Hatcher, Kari Trumbo, Susan May Warren, Lacy Williams

A Curse for Christmas: A witchy Christmas cozy mystery (Trouble Down Under)
P.A. Mason

Other Free titles often found at Bookbub, Bookfun, Ereader News Today, Inspired Reads, Pixel of Ink or Kindle ebooks.

Sunday Words of Encouragement November 28, 2021

We attended church in Illinois this morning with our son’s family. The Pastor’s message was continuing a series called Legacy. He explained that Legacy is: What we leave behind. What we do. What we sound like. What will be said about me when I’m gone?

Sometimes people feel they will be known by their errors or messes. But he explained that “Mess ups are the time to get up and get it right.”

What Motivates Me?
“Surely the righteous will never be shaken; they will be remembered forever.” Psalm 112:6.
Walk worthy of the calling with which you were called. Ephesians 4:1.
When you pass from this life to next, what do you want to be said about you?
How will you live to live up to your obituary?
Pastor suggests three important things.
1. Love God passionately. Acts 17:26-28 encourages us to reach out for Him and find Him for “’In Him we live and move and have our being.’”
You and I are one prayer away from God's purpose in our lives. “All things were created by Him and for Him.” Colossians 1:16.

2. Serve Others Selflessly. Be rich in good deeds.

3. Live Life Internationally. Our lives should be lived so we are “exceeding and living beyond the limits of ordinary experience.”

Sometimes we need to listen better rather than expressing our own ‘important’ opinion. We need to WAIT: think “Why am I talking?”
We need to extend ourselves to finish the purpose God has set for us.

I think this song fits today! In the Blink of an Eye by MercyMe.
Verse for Today:
Colossians 1:16 NIV
16 For in him all things were created: things in heaven and on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or powers or rulers or authorities; all things have been created through him and for him.


Colossians 1:16-17 (NLT) -
for through Him God created everything
in the heavenly realms and on earth.
He made the things we can see
and the things we can’t see—
such as thrones, kingdoms, rulers, and authorities in
the unseen world.
Everything was...

Saturday, November 27, 2021

Sharing Beyond Books #435 Comment Giveaway November 27, 2021

Hello again, Welcome to Sharing Beyond Books.

Thanks to everyone who commented on the last question.
Last post SBB#434 Natalija asks: Do you read while you are on vacation? If yes, do you choose specific books??
Ten commenters said "yes" they read on vacation but two don't get to read much and MaryP knits if she is with family (because she can talk while she knits). Three said they do not read on vacation, but no but Marjorie said she does go to bookstores. Fredamans said if she went on vacay she would probably read something based on the vacay spot.

For US participants: I need to update and refill the books available to US winners. I have used "Love" and "Christmas" titles as well as ARC titles. Since the supply is lower, I have author collections I could choose from, mostly romance - historical, suspense and some contemporary. What genres/books/authors would you like me to include?

The Winner from SBB#434 comments is #6 SCATTERED LEAVES 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. -- [9-18-2021 I have added a new box and crossed off books no longer available through August 2021.]

Please let me know your choice by completing the WINNER FORM.
WEEK #435
(One Question.)
Faith Hope and Cherry Tea asks: How many readers have books on their Christmas wish list? Specific titles or general categories??
Yes, I always have books on my gift wish lists. Since no one really knows what I will read I am very happy (and never offended) to receive gift cards. I like to give gift cards too, although some people seem to prefer specific gifts. But I rarely know what that is and even when I have picked from a wish list I have later been told that it was an old list. :-/

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 them. .
NOVEMBER COMMENTS PROVIDED BY NATALIJA AND FHCT who each get a $2.50 credit.

Your turn to share. Faith Hope and Cherry Tea asks: How many readers have books on their Christmas wish list? Specific titles or general categories??

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, December 11, 2021, at 5 PM central.
NOTE THAT  due to December and New Year holidays I will probably do one SBB on 12/11 with the answer due by January 8, 2022!

Audio Book Review: Mysterious Abduction by Rita Herron

This is a quick, easy listening Romantic Suspense.
Mysterious Abduction
Written by Rita Herron
Narrated by Steve Campbell

Run Time 6h 20min
Release Date: March 1, 2020
Publisher: HarperCollins
Genre: Crime, Mystery, Romantic Suspense
My Rating: 4.0 of 5.0 Overall; Story 4.0; Narration 4.25.


Publisher Description
She’ll never give up on finding her baby.
And neither will the sheriff of Whistler.
For five years, Cora Reeves has searched for her baby, who went missing in a fire—a baby she swears is still out there. When the private investigator sniffing out clues ends up dead, Sheriff Jacob Maverick’s on the cold case. As old evidence takes on new meaning, Jacob is desperate to ensure Cora’s safety. Especially once he realizes how far someone is willing to go to keep her from learning the truth behind what really happened that fateful day…


Review:
Cora’s new born daughter was taken when a fire broke out in the hospital the night of the infant’s birth. Eventually her obsession with trying to find the child, resulted in a divorce by her husband. It has been five years and Cora still studies the faces of young girls so much so that she has just been fired from her position as a teacher after another mother complains. But suddenly the private detective who has been working with her sends a text saying he is stopping the search. She drives to his office only to find it in flames.

The local Sheriff, Jacob, lost his father to the hospital fire five years before so he has always been concerned for Cora. There were no new leads to find her baby or the hospital arsonist until now that the investigator has been murdered.

Events begin to heat up as Cora pushes for clues. When it appears that her life is now in danger, Jacob steps in to keep her safe. Jacob tries to maintain his professional position but soon he is unable to resist holding Cora – to give comfort and maybe share more.

I liked the mystery and clean nature of this quick story. Cora is an interesting combination of fragile and determination. I liked Jacob’s strong, supportive character. There were several suspects that began to be revealed and I did figure out the culprit fairly quickly, although not quite the extreme nature of the motives. I recommend this to readers looking for a quick romantic suspense.

Audio Notes
: Steve Campbell does a fine job with the narration. He carried the voices and emotions well. His narration enhanced my enjoyment of the story.

Source: 12/31/2020 Chirp $3.99. This qualifies for 2021TBR and 2021Audiobook goals.

Friday, November 26, 2021

Martha's Bookshelf***Friday Pick Giveaway November 26, 2021

Happy Friday! One More week of Thankful November!
TO ENTER FRIDAY PICK.

November is the 12th anniversary month of Friday Pick so to celebrate, I will pick four winners instead of two provided there are at least 10 entries.

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 November 19, 2021 Pick. There was no automatic win last 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.

CONGRATULATIONS
to Random.org picked Winners from November 19, 2021 Pick:
ALINA gets a GC
AND
SUEF gets Plum Lucky
MARJORIE gets a GC
AND
FREDAMANS
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.}
Turkey Reading
I hope you had a good Thanksgiving if you celebrated and/or a good day reading!
Image found at Literacy Worldwide.

New Book Box #95 November 7, 2021

I'll add the titles through the week (16 including 2 doubles, 1 pair).
(on top) (Two) Rancher's Wild Secret and Hold Me Cowboy by Maisey Yates
(on top) Shadowlight by Lynn Viehl
(Two) The Taming & The Conquest by Jude Deveraux
(Pair) Dreaming of You and Promises of Dreams by Lisa Kleypas
My Darling Caroline by Adele Ashworth
Love's Surprise by Karen Ball
Manhunt by Wayne Barton and Stan Williams - Audio CDs
What We Find by Robyn Carr
Plum Lucky by Janet Evanovich
The Hollows by Ben Larken
Robbie Taggart: Highland Sailor by Michael Phillips and Judith Pella
Storm Sisters: Friends Through All Seasons by Afton Rovrik (Hardback)
After the Light by Kimberly Clark Sharp (Hardback)


New Book Box #94 May 28, 2021 (10 books)
Three Audio CD Books:

Web of Evil by J.A. Jance
One Good Deed by David Baldacci
Dance Upon the Air by Nora Roberts
SINGLE TITLES
Flowers From the Storm by Laura Kinsale
The Hidden Heart by Laura Kinsale
A Summer of Firsts by Susan Wiggs and Sarah Morgan
Moonlight Mile by Dennis Lehane
Christmas on 4th Street: An Anthology by Susan Mallery
The Stranger by Harlan Coben
Vortex by Robert Charles Wilson


New Book Groups #92 and #93 November 13, 2020.
#92 (15 books):
A Most Unsuitable Man by Jo Beverley
The Tender Stranger by Carolyn Davidson
Her Wedding Wish by Jillian Hart
Heart's Desire by Ruth Ryan Hagan
The Deputy's Duty by Terri Reed
Summer by the Sea by Susan Wiggs

Box #93 (14 books)

Seducing Mr. Darcy by Gwyn Cready
There's Only Been You by Donna Marie Rogers (personally signed)

For the Love of Pete by Julia Harper
The Irish Bride by Alexa Harrington

When We Met by Susan Mallery

Anne of Green Gables by Montgomery
All of Me by Lori Wilde


New Book Group #91 October 2, 2020 - Suspense themed
SINGLES: Ten books in this box:
Fight or Flight by Natalie J. Damschroder
The Sinister Pig by Tony Hillerman Audiobook

PICK TWO  your choice (listed below the picture) Nora Roberts:

Born in Fire Audiobook Cassettes
Montana Sky

Valley of Silence
Inner Harbor and
Chesapeake Blue



New Book Group #90 June 19, 2020
Quite a few mysteries in this box.
SINGLES:
Alias by Smy J. Fetzer
Hot Sex by Janet Evanovich (Audio cassettes)

New Book Group #89 March 6, 2020
Singles:
My Surrender by Connie Brockway
How to Tame a Modern Rogue by Diana Holoquist
Phoenix by A.J. Scudiere

New Book Group #88 November 8, 2019

Singles:
A Lady Never Tells by Candace Camp
Dawn of Redemption by Starla Childs

New Book Group #87 August 23, 2019

SINGLES:
Captain's Paradise by Kay Hooper
Open Season by Linda Howard AUDIO CASSETTES

New Book Group #86 June 7, 2019
Another group of variety from my shelves.
SINGLES:
Show No Fear by Marliss Melton
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.

SINGLES:
Summer Skies by Judith Christenberry
Windfall (two stories) by JoAnn Ross
Daddy's Little Cowgirl (two stories) by Judith Bowen and Kimberly Raye
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.
SINGLES:
A Family for Thanksgiving
On this Holy Night
Christmas Haven
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

SINGLES:
Magic Strikes by Ilona Andrews
Killing Time by Linda Howard
The Wedding Night by Barbara Dawson Smith

New Book Group #81 August 17, 2018

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
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)
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
Too 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
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.)
Rehabilitation
Secret Blessing
Named of the Dragon
Aunt Erma's Cope Book
The Eye of the World by Robert Jordan
Bound by Destiny by Rayka Mennen


(Title list reads left at bottom to right at top - 21 titles.)
Plan of Attack by Dan Brown
(*Three One more very old books from my Gothics box.)
*The Man in the Garden by Paule Mason (1969 - yellowed)
Fire Dancer by Ann Maxwell
*Four One 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 TWELVE years I have posted 91 groups of mostly 16 books plus an additional 21 totaling approximately 1,535 books available to find new homes! (As of November 26, 2021).

I am happy to say that so far at least 1,381 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, TWRP, 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 faraway 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!

Thursday, November 25, 2021

Happy Thanksgiving November 25, 2021

We are happy to be sharing Thanksgiving this year with our son and his family in Illinois.
MAY YOU EACH HAVE A BLESSED DAY!
I chose this song to express my thanks today to my awesome creator!


"I will sing of the Lord’s great love forever; with my mouth I will make your faithfulness known through all generations. I will declare that your love stands firm forever, that you have established your faithfulness in heaven itself." Psalm 89:1-2


Wednesday, November 24, 2021

Audible Book Review: Harper's Ten: Fractured Space, Book 0.5 by J.G. Cressey

Alien beasties are always of interest to me and I enjoyed this adventure.
Harper's Ten: Fractured Space, Book 0.5
By: J.G. Cressey
Narrated by: Alex Wyndham


Series: Fractured Space, Book 0.5
Length: 6h 29m
Release date: 01-19-21
Publisher: Podium Audio
Genre: Alien Encounter, Military Space
My Rating: 4.25 of 5.0 Overall; Content 4.25; Narration 4.5.


Publisher's Summary
What happens when technology fails and nature bares its teeth?
Lieutenant Callum Harper knows that his team are as tough as they come: nine highly trained men and women and one battle robot who’s 11 feet of pure, cybernetic muscle. But as they drop through the atmosphere of the uncharted planet Capsun 23, Cal can’t shake the feeling that something is off about this mission. Three data drones have previously touched down, but soon after went dark. And now, all communication with a group of civilian researchers has been lost. Intel suspects scavengers are to blame - or at worst, pirates.
But Cal’s instincts are telling him otherwise. All that’s known about Capsun 23 is that the gravity is within acceptable limits, the air is breathable, and water is abundant. Three things to encourage life...but what kind of life? Cal has never been one to back away from a potential fight, but if his instincts are right, a lone team simply won’t cut it. Not by a long shot. ©2015 J.G. Cressey (P)2021 Podium Audio


Review:
Lieutenant Callum Harper is newly promoted and not sure he wants the responsibility of his position. He isn’t particularly happy with his orders either which direct his highly skilled team to retrieve mechanical drones that went dark before checking for survivors of a civilian research team which went silent. Clearly there are problems on this newly discovered planet.

As the team drops through the cloudy atmosphere Cal worries what they will face. They soon discover their technician has troubles dismantling the drone and their shuttle craft begins to experience mechanical failures. After crash landing short of the research center they set out in unknown territory to reach the center and try to get answers. Along the way their camp is attacked by worm creatures of various sizes. Slowly, Cal’s old friend, the battle robot, Max, begins to lose coordination.

The team finds another crashed ship which appears to belong to hostile scavengers. Once they get to the research facility, the team must fight to rescue the survivors and stay alive to return to their ship to disclose the dangers of the planet. Nor everyone will make it back alive.

I enjoyed the characters, and it was difficult to have so many fall in the battles. I appreciated the sense of loyalty to each other among the team members and to helping the researchers. That had hard decisions to make regarding the scavengers. There is plenty of action and the audio moves along at a quick pace. I am interested in seeing where the surviving characters go from here. I recommend this to readers who enjoy Military space action and alien encounters.

Audio Notes: Alex Wyndham does a good job with the narration. He portrays the energy and different voices of the characters and keeps the book moving well. I enjoyed the audio and will want to continue the series on audio.

Source: 10/9/2021 Audible Plus Catalog titles. This qualifies for 2021Audiobook goal.

Sunday, November 21, 2021

Sunday Post November 21, 2021/It's Monday! What are You Reading? Plus Mailbox Monday November 22, 2021

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.



I stayed home Monday and then ended up working late every night the rest of the week as I tried to finish things to go on vacation. We are up in Illinois again visiting our son and his family. We are looking forward to enjoying a lovely Thanksgiving together.


When I take off my glasses I can't see things beyond six inches.
Image my concern when I saw this dark blob
above my shower one morning this week.
I thought it was a spider at first.
Fortunately it was a cluster of ladybugs who come inside for the warmth.

Weather for our trip was very nice - not too crowded and only a little rain. It did get a little colder as we drove north and Temps will be a bit cooler here: 21 to 59. We'll be bundled. :-) 

I enjoyed my listening last week and finished two audiobooks and am 12 hours into a long third. I posted three reviews and my usual memes.

I only visited 14 blogs again last week.
No Shout Out this week. Be Blessed!

Audible offerings for free children's titles ended June 30.
Audiobooks.com is still sharing some free listens for children.

These were last week's posts:
  • ATBR- Audio Book Review: Dachshund Through the Snow by David Rosenfelt; Genre: Crime, Detective, Mystery, Fav Series; My Rating: 4.25 of 5.0 Overall; Content 4.25; Narration 4.5.
Finished Reading:
1. Audible/Smartphone (ATBR)


Harper's Ten: Fractured Space, Book 0.5
By: J.G. Cressey
Narrated by: Alex Wyndham
Series: Fractured Space, Book 0.5
Length: 6h 29m
This isn't the happiest of adventures, but interesting.
Source: 10/9/2021 Audible Plus Catalog titles.

Click on book title for full description.



2. Audio/Smartphone (ATBR)


Mysterious Abduction
Written by Rita Herron
Narrated by Steve Campbell
This was a quick, easy listening Romantic Suspense.
Source: 12/31/2020 Chirp $3.99.

Click on book title for full description.



Currently Reading:
1. Audible/Smartphone (ATBR)
Shattered Worlds  By  cover art


Shattered Worlds
Koban, Volume 4
By: Stephen W Bennett
Narrated by: Eric Michael Summerer
Length: 31 hrs and 26 mins
I have been waiting to listen to this long audiobook in a sci fi series I like.
I am at 18 hours left as the battle continues between the Krall and humans with the help of the Kobani.
Source: October 2020 Audible Credit

Publisher's Summary
The Kobani continue their offensives against the Krall, attacking production worlds and destroying or stealing ships from the Krall fleet, which the enemy needs to resupply their invasions. The Kobani create a multispecies settlement on Haven, a gentler habitable world near deadly Koban. They gain the trust and technological assistance of freed former Krall slave species, the Torki, Prada, and resurrected Raspani. Their ranks and Mind Tap learned skills are increased by spec ops recruits from Human Space.
Mirikami engineers an assault on the Krall base world, K1, in cooperation with a skeptical human navy by sharing new technology, revealing Kobani physical capabilities, and providing intelligence on new Krall invasion plans. Despite knowing the Kobani use illegal gene mods, the navy high command decides to hit the Krall first, with the help of their secretive, tough Kobani ally. After the attack a mauled Krall fleet still heavily outnumbers the navy, and the damaged human fleet withdraws.
A vengeful Krall warlord, the Kobani old nemesis Telour, summons an ancient Olt'kitapi ship that can shatter an entire planet. He has a devious plan for remote strikes that will initiate delayed deaths on multiple human worlds, all before a ship imbued with morality can learn it has been been duped. Telour wants the home world of humanity to see death approaching one world at a time.
Mirikami expected a strong Krall reaction but not this extreme. He scrambles to head off the inexorable destruction of multiple planets. Failing to save some worlds, he is the final hope for billions of people on others. The Kobani will need the strength and speed their genes provide plus luck to save humanity.
Book one: Koban; book two: Koban: The Mark of Koban; book three: Koban: Rise of the Kobani.
©2014 Stephen W Bennett (P)2015 Stephen W Bennett



2. ebook/Kindle App on Phone (ebTBR)
23676904


A Place Called Armageddon: Constantinople 1453
by C.C. Humphreys
I still like the writing style. I am only 12% in so far.
Source: 2012 NetGalley.

Click on book title for full description.





I expect I may read a few books with the children this week so we'll have to see what comes next.

November 21, 2021 - I got behind one morning and plan to listen to two days selections to get back on track. I love seeing new things each time I read the Bible. I am glad to still be current with morning reading. I am reading/listening to the NLT Tyndale version of the Bible on You Version App so Hubby and I are reading the same passages each day.
No Study yet this week.


I completed two books for reviews to post this week.
My NetGalley shelf now has 2 old ebooks titles and one new audio.
I still have two author titles remaining in queue. I'm still working on reading these.
(Plus a few that I received from facebook links and newsletter sign-ups, not specific review requests.)
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: Serena of Savvy Verse & Wit, me and new to the team, Velvet at vvb32reads. Warning: Mailbox Monday can lead to envy, toppling TBR piles and humongous wish lists.

I requested/received one new NetGalley Audio review title this week.
I picked up my two October Audible credit books.
I do have Audiobooks.com VIP to pick up still this month.
No other purchases or freebies this week.
I picked up No free Kindle titles.

(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
Received Audiobook through NetGalley
59232081. sx318
The Chase
by Candice Fox
Macmillan Audio





Won
NONE

Purchased
11/18/2021 Audible Two October Credits used for continuing series:
Mavericks Audiobook By Craig Alanson cover art
Mavericks Expeditionary Force, Book 6
By: Craig Alanson
Narrated by: R.C. Bray

Length: 17 hrs and 21 mins
Release date: 09-25-18

Commune: Book Four Audiobook By Joshua Gayou cover art
Commune: Book Four Commune Series, Book 4
By: Joshua Gayou
Narrated by: R.C. Bray

Length: 22 hrs and 7 mins
Release date: 05-03-19



Free
Nothing new this week!
No free books - not much time on facebook this week due to work and getting ready to travel.

Other Free titles often found at Bookbub, Bookfun, Ereader News Today, Inspired Reads, Pixel of Ink or Kindle ebooks.

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