Sunday Post October 30, 2022/It's Monday! What are You Reading? Plus Mailbox Monday October 31, 2022

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 feel like I am in the "wash, rinse and repeat" cycle of busy weeks. Fortunately I started the week with a nice family visit for Sunday dinner and Monday lunch.

We remembered to get a pic after enjoying dinner.
My brother and his significant other are at the far end.
My stepmom's service dog, Sofie, fit right in for the picture.

My Stepmom, my local girls (daughter and granddaughters), and me.

Friday night I had a woman's event dinner to visit with a club state leader before Saturday's luncheon event held in the next town over.

I continue with my previous prayer lists.

We had some rain today but not stormy as expected. The church postponed a Family Festival event a week because we expected the weather to be much worse.
We'll be in low 80s during the days this week and lows in high 50s during the nights..

This week I enjoyed one last #Fraterfest audio and then a longer audio epic tale. I slipped in three review posts at the end of the week, and my regular Memes.

I visited 16 blogs last week.
Shout out this week to MY OWN BOOKSHELVES. It looks like the blog is primary on romance. Karen says: "I am passionate about reading. What you will find here are my thoughts on all things in literary world."

Audible offerings for free children's titles ended June 30, 2021.
Audiobooks.com is still sharing some free listens for children.

These were the posts last week:

• Sunday Post October 23, 2022/It's Monday! What are You Reading? Plus Mailbox Monday October 24, 2022.

• MBS September 2022 Reading List Wrap Up.

• Martha's BookShelf Friday Pick October 28, 2022 Giveaway.  Open Worldwide. Ending 11/3/2022.
  

• ATBR: Audible Book Review: Death Overdue: A Haunted Library Mystery by Allison Brook; Genre: Amateur Sleuth, Cozy Mystery, Woman Sleuth; My Rating: 4.0 of 5.0 Overall; Story 4.0; Narration 4.0.

• ATBR: Audio Book Review: Galvanism and Ghouls, Book 2 of Manners and Monsters Collection by Tilly Wallace; Genre: Cozy Mystery, Gaslamp, Paranormal; My Rating: 4.25 of 5.0 Overall; Story 4.25; Narration 4.25.

• ATBR: Audible Book Review: A Dirty Job by Christopher Moore; Genre: Occult, Satire, Supernatural; My Rating: 3.5 of 5.0 Overall; Story 3.5; Narration 4.0.

• Sunday Words of Encouragement October 30, 2022 - Don't Grow Weary of Doing Good.
  

Finished Reading:

Final #Fraterfest title: 1. Audio Smartphone (ATBR)

What Lurks Beneath [Dramatized Adaptation]
Written by Ryan Lockwood
Narrated by Collected Narrators
This is an entertaining horror in the depths story.
Source: October 27th, 2021 Chirp Purchase $3.99.
Click on book title for full description.

2. Audio Smartphone (ATBR)

The Warded Man
Written By: Peter V. Brett
Narrated By: Peter Bradbury
Publisher: Recorded Books
Date: December 2009
Duration: 18 hours 16 minutes
This is a very engaging Epic
Source: 10/16/19 Audiobook.com VIP.
Click on book title for full description.

Currently Reading:

1. Audible Smartphone (ATBR)

White Wasteland
A Black Autumn Saga (White Wasteland Series, Book 1)
By: Jeff Kirkham, Jason Ross
Narrated by: Kevin Pierce
Length: 12 hrs and 50 mins
I chose this for "Autumn" title and because I'm ready for a Post Apocalyptic. Source: 3/3/22 New-to-Me series purchased at Audible Sale for $3.74.
Publisher's Summary
As winter descends on a broken nation, the Homestead survival compound squares off against Mother Nature and an unstoppable wave of human suffering against a violent flu, coupled with desperate mobs and a fanatical warlord.
The Special Forces warriors and their civilian fight force face a moral collapse at home as the founder of the Homestead struggles with the demons of his own, while a secretive group of Homestead women follow their hearts into uncharted waters, tossing the fragile community into further turmoil.
Strange visions, precarious faith, and troubled dreams gnaw at the Homestead, but are keys to their survival buried in their inmost truths?
The saga of Black Autumn continues in book one of the White Wasteland Series.
©2021 Jeff Kirkham, Jason Ross (P)2021 Jeff Kirkham, Jason Ross

2. Audio Smartphone (ATBR)

The Clause in Christmas
by Rachael Bloome
Read by E.L. Beckett
Run Time 8h 15min
I'm ready to enjoy some Christmas reading.
Source: 12/16/2021 purchase at Chirp for $1.99.
Publisher Description
An unexpected inheritance. A pesky clause in the will. And 25 days to avoid falling in love…
Cassie Hayward hates Christmas. Especially this year.
No job. Flat broke. And an ex most definitely on the naughty list.
The unexpected inheritance of a charming Victorian cottage in the small town of Poppy Creek may be the Christmas miracle Cassie needs.
Except for one itty-bitty problem: a clause in the will.
To inherit the house, Cassie must complete a series of festive tasks every day in December leading up to Christmas. All overseen by the handsome, Christmas-loving lawyer Luke Davis.
Luke is as strong and steady as the bespoke furniture he crafts as a hobby. He has to be. Stepping into his late father’s shoes as the town lawyer comes with a sleigh full of responsibilities. Which means the captivating stranger collecting her inheritance is a distraction he can’t afford.
As the unlikely pair complete the daily tasks, their hearts begin to soften. But will the wounds from their pasts—and an unexpected visitor—steal what little hope they have left?
Find out in this heartwarming holiday romance.

October 30, 2022 - I am continuing up to date and love that I learn new things each time I read/listen to the scriptures. I get excited watching the devotion videos. The Bible Reading Plan is: BibleProject | One Story that Leads to Jesus. It really soothes me to read/listen to the pieces each day.
No new study this past week.

I read two audio titles and reviewed three so I am making slow progress but still need to review: 10 books (plus 7 children's books). I keep working on these. :-)

NETGALLEY STATUS--
Back to the three old ebook titles. I will probably end up letting A Place Called Armageddon go as DNF.
I have one author reviews in my queue that I need to start reading on my computer.
(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.

No new review titles this week.
I picked two for one Credit deal on mystery thriller at Audiobooks.com.
I found two post -apocalyptic on Audible Plus.
One free Kindle title this week.
Are your mailbox and TBR piles blooming?

Review Titles

NONE

Won

NONE

Purchased

10/29/2022 Two for one Credit deal on mystery thriller at Audiobooks.com.

The Good Daughter, A Novel
By: Karin Slaughter
Narrated by: Kathleen Early
Series: The Good Daughter, Book 1
Duration: 17 hrs and 52 mins

Savage Run
A Joe Pickett Novel, Book 2
By: C. J. Box
Narrated by: David Chandler
Duration: 8 hours 51 minutes

Free

I found these two on Audible Plus. I have book one of the Extinction Cycle series.

Extinction Inferno: Extinction Cycle: Dark Age, Book 2
By: Nicholas Sansbury Smith , Anthony J. Melchiorri
Narrated by: R.C. Bray
Series: Extinction Cycle: Dark Age, Book 2
Length: 10 hrs and 29 mins

Whispers of Ash
The Whispers of Ash Series, Book 1
By: Adrian J. Smith
Narrated by: Raphael Corkhill
Series: The Nameless, Book 1
Length: 11 hrs and 15 mins

One Free Kindle Title:
(Seen at The Book Connection through Mailbox Monday link.)

The Little Bookstore Murder (A Julia Greene Travel Mystery Book 3)
Linda Clayton

One new title added to Kindle library. Free titles often found at Bookbub, Bookfun, Book Adrenaline, Ereader News Today, Inspired Reads, Pixel of Ink or Kindle ebooks.

Sunday Words of Encouragement October 30, 2022 -- Don't Grow Weary of Doing Good!

Our Sunday School teacher advised us we only have another 3-4 weeks to finish our two year study of Revelation. 😊 This week’s lesson regarded the Millennium and what would be happening during that period.

The service started with some nice, older praise songs. Then, after encouraging our being obedient to share tithes, and offerings (don't rob God Malachi 3:8). Pastor preached on Doing Good. The message was based on Galatians 6:1-10.

“Weary” in the context of this scripture is beyond being tired. It means being disheartened or discouraged. Believers are told ‘Do not grow weary’. Recognize that the attack of discouragement is an attack of the devil.

‘In due season we will reap a harvest.’ Although many allergy-sensitive people are not happy at this season, Pastor loves the season of peanut harvest. This scripture tells us that ‘if you do good, you will reap a harvest in time.’ The harvests will be different and will come at different times (seasons) for different people.

You can't reap if you give up. Hang in like “Hair in the biscuit” (a rather yucky image).

How do we continue to do good?
1. Restore and minister to others. v1. Show grace. Not condemnation. (See v3.)
2. Bear one another burdens. v2. This doesn’t mean you have to help a lazy person (see v4-5) but we can help those who need extra or who are going through times of struggle. Believers are exhorted to show the love of God, especially to others in the ‘family’.
3. Self-evaluate and work out your own situation. v4. Don't be critical of others. We are reminded to stay in our own lane. Only the Holy Spirit can truly ‘fix’ others.
4. Bear your own load. v5.

When we sow goodness, we will receive a response of blessing that is recognizable. v6-8. The farmer plants a single seed, kernel of corn, or one peanut. He harvests a multitude: a spike, an ear of corn, and a peanut bush. Believers reap blessings and eternal life.

Stop and ask: What am I investing my time in? An old adage says: “You have time for what you make time for.”
Our God is a God of the harvest, especially an eternal harvest. Keep serving and doing good.

This is a song that speaks of God’s great goodness and faithfulness which I have seen in my own life.

Verses for Today:
Galatians 6:9-10 NIV
9 Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up. 10 Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do good to all people, especially to those who belong to the family of believers.


Lord and Spirit – Please help me to keep on doing good … for Your Glory!

 

Audible Book Review: A Dirty Job by Christopher Moore

This is a bit rough with language and reasoning, but it has some funny moments.
A Dirty Job
By: Christopher Moore
Narrated by: Fisher Stevens

Series: Grim Reaper, Book 1 (2 books)
Length: 11 hrs and 50 mins
Release date: 01-01-06
Publisher: HarperAudio
Genre: Occult, Satire, Supernatural
My Rating: 3.5 of 5.0 Overall; Story 3.5; Narration 4.0.

Publisher's Summary
Charlie Asher is a pretty normal guy. A little hapless, somewhat neurotic, sort of a hypochondriac. He's what's known as a Beta Male: the kind of fellow who makes his way through life by being careful and constant, you know, the one who's always there to pick up the pieces when the girl gets dumped by the bigger/taller/stronger Alpha Male.
But Charlie's been lucky. He owns a building in the heart of San Francisco, and runs a secondhand store with the help of a couple of loyal, if marginally insane, employees. He's married to a bright and pretty woman who actually loves him for his normalcy. And she, Rachel, is about to have their first child.
Yes, Charlie's doing okay for a Beta. That is, until the day his daughter, Sophie, is born. Just as Charlie, exhausted from the birth, turns to go home, he sees a strange man in mint-green golf wear at Rachel's hospital bedside, a man who claims that no one should be able to see him. But see him Charlie does, and from here on out, things get really weird.
People start dropping dead around him, giant ravens perch on his building, and it seems that everywhere he goes, a dark presence whispers to him from under the streets. Strange names start appearing on his nightstand notepad, and before he knows it, those people end up dead, too. Yup, it seems that Charlie Asher has been recruited for a new job, an unpleasant but utterly necessary one: Death. It's a dirty job. But hey, somebody's gotta do it.
©2006 Christopher Moore (P)2006 HarperCollinsPublishers

Review:
Charlie Asher is a normal, not particularly impressive guy; a rather hapless, beta male. He was fortunate to be running his family’s business, a secondhand store with some helpful, if weird, employees. And somehow Charlie landed a lovely wife, Rachel.

When Rachel goes into labor, Charlie’s narcotic behavior causes the nurses to run him out of the room. After Rachel delivers a precious baby girl, Charlie returns to the room to be surprised to see a stranger there. The stranger is surprised too as no one is supposed to be able to see him. The man is a deliverer of death or soul collector who claims the souls of those dying.

Charlie returns home with his daughter Sophie and struggles to get over the loss of his beloved wife. But soon he begins to see strange things, like red glowing items in his store and beyond. Next, people start to die near him. One of his employees, a goth girl fascinated by ghoulish things, takes a book sent to Charlie that tells him he is now a soul collector and what he is supposed to do. She doesn’t consider him worthy, so she wants to claim the book.

Meanwhile, Charlie continues with strange things, finding names and numbers on his bedside table, seeing giant ravens on the roof, spotting shadows on the street, and hearing challenging whispers from the street gutters. Eventually, Charlie learns what is going on and he begins to stumble through his new “job” as a deliverer of death and collector of souls. Still, powers of darkness are creepy forward and becoming more threatening.

The story goes off on a strange path with the soul collectors finally facing off against the demons which want to take over the souls of San Francisco. I am glad there was strong humor to offset some terribly strong language. There was also some clear stereotyping that could be offensive to some if they don’t appreciate the satire. I did like several of the secondary characters, including Sophie. I also liked the quotes at the beginning of the chapters. I am not sure if I will continue with the series, but I can recommend this to fans of occult who aren’t offended by the foul language.

Audio Notes: Fisher Stevens does a good job with the narration. His voice appropriately fits the crazy characters. I’m glad I had the audio.

Source: 7/18/21 Audible $5.00 sale on Sci Fi and Fantasy titles. This qualifies for 2022TBR and 2022Audiobook goals.

Audio Book Review: Galvanism and Ghouls, Book 2 of Manners and Monsters Collection by Tilly Wallace

I like these characters and the mystery of this series.

Manners and Monsters Collection: A Regency paranormal mystery series
by Tilly Wallace
Narrated By: Marian Hussey

Duration: 23 hours 46 minutes;
book 2, Galvanism and Ghouls.
Book 2 Length: 8 hrs and 36 mins
Release date: 03-03-21
Publisher: Tilly Wallace
Genre: Cozy Mystery, Gaslamp, Paranormal
My Rating: 4.25 of 5.0 Overall; Story 4.25; Narration 4.25.

Galvanism and Ghouls
Publisher's Summary
Time reveals all secrets....
A new unnatural horror is about to rattle Hannah Miles' quiet existence, and it's not the short-tempered viscount prowling the hallways. Someone is creating a monster by stitching together pieces of different people. When a limb makes an escape attempt, Viscount Wycliff is called to investigate. All of London knows there is one mad scientist among them capable of creating such an ungodly monster...Sir Warren Miles.
Hannah's father is suspected of a most heinous crime, and she is determined to clear his name, even as Wycliff works to see the murderer hang. Buried secrets that touch all their lives will be brought to the surface. One such secret belongs to Hannah and could tear her world apart.
With Hannah and Wycliff on opposing sides, can they find the real monster, and will it be the hand that wields the scalpel or the creature hiding in the dark?
©2019 Tilly Wallace (P)2019 Tilly Wallace

Review:
Growly Viscount Wycliff is called out to investigate a “monster” terrorizing the public. He doesn’t immediately find the monster but he finds a dismembered arm and hand…that is still moving. Wycliff brings it back to the Miles’ household where Hannah and her father get to examine the specimen. Hannah realizes that the hand is sentient, and she makes a ‘pet’ out of it. Next thing, they are using the hand as a blood hound to search out the rest of its body!

As other citizens go missing and stitched up bodies are discovered, the public begins to call for the arrest of the scientist they believe capable of these atrocities – Hannah’s father, Sir Warren Miles. Wycliff has no choice but to allow the arrest of Sir Wiles. Hannah is horrified and now opposes the mysterious viscount more than ever.

But both Hannah and Wycliff are hiding secrets. When the secrets are revealed, will their animosity create a complete divide, or will they learn to empathize for each other? Meanwhile, what happens to the hand and the monster?

I enjoy the mystery and the humor of these characters and their situations. I like how the author is developing the relationship between Hannah and Wycliff. I suspect I will listen to book three, Gossip and Gorgons, sooner than later. I recommend this series to fans of paranormal and historical mysteries.

Audio Notes: Marian Hussey does a wonderful job with the narration. She provided distinct voices and I get caught up in listening. The narration added to my enjoyment of the story.

Source: 11/1/2020 Audiobooks.com Credit Purchase. This qualifies for 2022TBR and 2022Audiobook goals.

Audible Book Review: Death Overdue: A Haunted Library Mystery by Allison Brook

This is a nice, easy listen, cozy mystery with just a hint of future romance.
Death Overdue: A Haunted Library Mystery
By: Allison Brook
Narrated by: Mia Gaskin

Length: 9 hrs and 27 mins
Release date: 10-10-17
Publisher: Blackstone Audio, Inc.
Genre: Amateur Sleuth, Cozy Mystery, Woman Sleuth
My Rating: 4.0 of 5.0 Overall; Story 4.0; Narration 4.0.

Publisher's Summary
For fans of Miranda James and Jenn McKinlay comes an enthralling series debut featuring a librarian who solves mysteries with the help of a ghost in the stacks.
Carrie Singleton is just about done with Clover Ridge, Connecticut until she is offered a job as the head of programs and events at the spooky local library, complete with its own librarian ghost. Her first major event is a program presented by a retired homicide detective, Al Buckley, who claims he knows who murdered Laura Foster, a much-loved part-time library aide who was bludgeoned to death 15 years earlier. As he invites members of the audience to share stories about Laura, he suddenly keels over and dies.
The medical examiner reveals that poison is what did him in, and Carrie feels responsible for having gone forward with the program despite pushback from her director. Driven by guilt, Carrie is determined to discover who murdered the detective, convinced it's the same man who killed Laura all those years ago. Luckily for Carrie, she has a friendly, knowledgeable ghost by her side. But as she questions the shadows surrounding Laura's case, disturbing secrets come to light, and with each step Carrie takes, she gets closer to ending up like Al.
©2017 Allison Brook (P)2017 Blackstone Audio, Inc.

Review:
Librarian Carrie was ready to move out of town when she is offered the job to head the programs and events department. She is surprised to be encouraged to accept the position by the whispers of the (previously) rumored library ghost. Apparently, Carrie, and one child, are the only ones able to see and hear the ghost, Evelyn.

Carrie soon realizes she has to deal with the sabotage of a disgruntled co-librarian who wanted the job. But Carrie is ready to change her work situation, moving from ‘goth’ librarian to a conservatively dressed supervisor. She is also able to find a very attractive cottage at a ridiculously affordable price offered to her by a mysterious man who owns the property and asks her to handle his mail while he is away. Carrie is intrigued by her new landlord but also finds herself being pursued by the son of the 15-year-old murder victim.

One of the first major events is a presentation by the retired detective who has been determined to solve the murder of a beloved library aide 15 years ago. Unfortunately, before he can share his latest information, the detective collapses due to poison. Carrie is sure that the murders are related, and she is determined to investigate even though she is discouraged by the authorities.

The story isn’t particularly exciting, but it is a nice, light cozy mystery. I enjoyed the element of a ghost in the library and the fun ideas that Carrie brings to her event planning. Although the dialogue of the romance interests is a bit awkward, the touch of romance adds a bit of interest to encourage continuing with the series. Which I will do since I have the next two on audible. I think readers who like easy, cozy mysteries would find this story acceptable.

Audio Notes: Mia Gaskin’s voice seems to fit this light female character. She presents the narration in a fashion that makes it an easy listen. I am glad I was able to enjoy this free audio.

Source: 1/23/2021 Audible Plus Catalog. This qualifies for 2022TBR and 2022Audiobook goals.

Martha's BookShelf Friday Pick October 28, 2022

Happy Friday!
TO ENTER FRIDAY PICK.
Another long week for me... and no reviews posted yet. :-(
I still have some GC emails and payments to complete and books to pull for mailing soon.

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 October 22, 2022 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 was no title blocked.

CONGRATULATIONS to one winner (under 10 entries):
Random.org picked Winner from October 22, 2022 Pick:
LINDA 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.}

I don't like mice or cobwebs on my books. How about you?
Image found at Pinterest sharing from abbyandjuddlangham.blogspot.com.

New Book Box #96 June 10, 2022

PAIR:
Liz Carlyle: Three Little Secrets and My False Heart
Johanna Lindsey: Brave the Wild Wind and Fires of Winter
SINGLE TITLES
Against the Sky by Kat Martin
Devil in Winter by Lisa Kleypas

The Eagle and the Dove by Jane Feather
Heir to a Dark Inheritance by Maisey Yates
The Ideal Man by Julie Garwood
Last of the Breed by Louis L'Amour
A Legacy of Secrets by Carol Marinelli
Marry in Secret by Anne Gracie
No Greater Treasure by Ellen Kelley
One Minute Out by Mark Greaney
Texas Born by Diana Palmer
The Time Machine by H.G. Wells (Illustrated Classic Edition)
While Others Sleep by Helen R. Myers


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
My Darling Caroline by Adele Ashworth
Love's Surprise by Karen Ball
Manhunt by Wayne Barton and Stan Williams - Audio CDs
After the Light by Kimberly Clark Sharp (Hardback)


New Book Box #94 May 28, 2021 (10 books)

Three One Audio CD Books:
Dance Upon the Air by Nora Roberts
SINGLE TITLES
Flowers From the Storm by Laura Kinsale
The Hidden Heart by Laura Kinsale

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

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
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


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

Born in Fire Audiobook Cassettes
Montana Sky
Valley of Silence


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:
A Question of God's Balance (Vol 1) by Joseph Thek


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

SINGLES:
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
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
Follow the Stars Home, Hunting Badger, The Quiet Game and Second Wind

New Book Group #82 November 9, 2018

SINGLES:
Killing Time by Linda Howard
The Wedding Night by Barbara Dawson Smith

New Book Group #81 August 17, 2018
All Gone

New Book Group #80 August 17, 2018

Note: The Final Judgment and
The Book of Fate are Audio Cassettes
SINGLES:
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.

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
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
Crisscross by Harmon Henkin
Maelstrom by Anne McCaffrey
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
The Eye of the World by Robert Jordan

(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 1,406 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, 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!

MBS September 2022 Reading List Wrap Up

MBS 2022 Reading List - SEPTEMBER

Code for the list is:
A = Audible; ABB = Audiobook Boom
e = eBook; eA = eBook from Author; eT = eBook from Tour
NG = NetGalley
P = Print; PT = Print from Tour
LBC = Ladies Book Club
TBR = From the TBR shelves prior to 2022
Favorites for the month:

5 Stars =
4.75 Stars =
4.5 Stars =  Until Someone Listens, Fear the Sky

1. ATBR: Audio Book Review: A Matter of Trust by Lis Wiehl & April Henry; Genre: Crime Fiction, Legal Procedure, Mysteries; My Rating: 3.75 of 5.0 Overall; Story 3.75; Narration 4.0.
2. ATBR: Audible Book Review: After the Ending by Lindsey Fairleigh, Lindsey Pogue; Genre: Post-Apocalyptic, Sci Fi; My Rating: 3.5 of 5.0 Overall; Story 3.5; Narration 3.75.
3. ATBR: Audible Book Review: Aesop's Fables by Aesop; Genre: Children’s Classics, Classics, Teaching; My Rating: 4.25 of 5.0 Overall; Story 4.25; Narration 4.25.
4. NG2022: #NetGalley Audio Book Review: Until Someone Listens by Estela Juarez; Genre: Children’s Audiobook, Latin American; My Rating: 4.5 of 5.0 Overall; Story 4.5; Narration 4.5.
5. ATBR: Audible Book Review: Fear the Sky by Stephen Moss; Genre: Fantasy, Hard Science Fiction, Military; My Rating: 4.5 of 5.0 Overall; Story 4.25; Narration 4.5.
6. ATBR: Audio Book Review: Act of Mercy by Mandy M. Roth; Genre: Fantasy, Paranormal Shifter, Romance, Science Fiction; My Rating: 4.0 of 5.0 Overall; Story 4.25; Narration 4.0.
7. ATBR: Audible Book Review: Voyage of the Defiance: Breaking Free, Book 1, by S.E. Smith; Genre: Children’s Classics, Classics, Teaching; My Rating: 4.25 of 5.0 Overall; Story 4.25; Narration 4.25.
8. A2022: Audible Book Review: A Borrowing of Bones, a Mercy Carr Mystery by Paula Munier; Genre: Action and Adventure, Family, Teen and Young Adult; My Rating: 4.0 of 5.0 Overall; Story 4.0; Narration 4.0.
9. ATBR: Audible Book Review: Ruins of the Galaxy by J.N. Chaney and Christopher Hopper; Genre: Adventure, Military, Space Opera; My Rating: My Rating: 4.25 of 5.0 Overall; Story 4.25; Narration 4.5.
10. ATBR: Audible Book Review: The Science of Sci-Fi by Erin Macdonald; Genre: Nonfiction, Science & Engineering, Science; My Rating: 4.25 of 5.0 Overall; Story 4.25; Narration 4.25.
11. NG2022: #NetGalley Audio Book Review: Lovelight Farms by B.K. Borison; Genre: Contemporary, Romantic Comedy; My Rating: 4.25 of 5.0 Overall; Story 4.25; Narration 4.25.
12. ATBR: Audible Book Review: One-Eyed Jax by R.A. Savatore; Genre: Science Fiction & Fantasy, Fantasy; My Rating: 4.25 of 5.0 Overall; Story 4.25; Narration 4.25.

Total read = 12
TBR = 10
New Authors = 9
Audio/Audible = 12 (10 TBRs)
NetGalley = 2 (2 audio) (0 TBRs)
Author Review books (other than NG) = 0 (0 TBR)
Nonfiction = 1
eBook = 0 (0 TBR)
Print = 0 (0 TBR)

Goal Progress (to Date meaning through the end of the given month):
Goodreads Goal Read to Date: 105 of 125
TBR to Date: 80 of 90 total
Audio to Date: 93 of 100
NetGalley to Date: 13 of 10
Author Reviews: 3 of 12
Nonfiction: 9 of 12
TBR ebooks or Print: 5 of 12

• Series: 70 of 75 (26 continuing, 44 new)
• New to me Series: 44 (13 Yes to continue; 15 likely to continue, 14 maybe, 3 unlikely)
• Finished for me Series: 3

Special Goals
• Seasonal title: 3 of 4: Winter, Spring, Summer

• Alphabet letters covered: AUDIO SERIES: 4 Jan, 2 Feb, 7 March, 3 April, 4 May, 2 June, 0 July, 1 August, 1 September, (A, B, C, D, E, F, G, H, I, J, K, L, M, N, O, P, Q, R, S, T, U, V, W, Z) (24 of 26)   
Remaining: X, Y

• Alphabet letters covered: MIXED MEDIA (focus on stand alones but can be series): 2 Jan, 6 Feb, 3 March, 7 April, 3 May, 2 June; 1 July, 0 August, 0 September (A, B, C, D, E, F, G, H, I, J, K, L, M, N, O, P, Q, R, S, T, U, W, Y, Z) (24 of 26)
Remaining: V, X

Sunday Post October 23, 2022/It's Monday! What are You Reading? Plus Mailbox Monday October 24 2022

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 had another busy week. A little calmer but I got my flu shot Wednesday and either due to that or the cold weather that blew through, I spent the next two days working through a cold fog.

My post is ready early today as I am looking forward to a dinner visit tonight with my step mother (from South Florida) with her friend, and my (2nd) brother (from California) with his friend. Plus my daughter and granddaughters.

Here is a picture of our ribbon cutting at the Re-opening.

I continue with my previous prayer lists.

I was surprised to hear some of the blog folks had snow during the week. {brrrr}
I was cold enough at our temps which dropped to 38 one night. We'll be back to 70-80s during the day and a low of 49 during the nights..

This week I enjoyed six audios for #Fraterfest. I posted four reviews at the end of the week and my regular Memes.

I visited 15 blogs last week.
Shout out this week to BOOKSHELF JOURNEYS. I relate to Terrie with varied reading and her claim, "I'm one of those people who always has a book nearby...I read at mealtimes, while waiting in line or at the doctor's, before bed, and sometimes even while stuck in traffic!"  Check out her blog and her helpful reading lists.

Audible offerings for free children's titles ended June 30, 2021.
Audiobooks.com is still sharing some free listens for children.

These were the posts last week:

• Sunday Post October 16, 2022/It's Monday! What are You Reading? Plus Mailbox Monday October 17, 2022.

• Martha's BookShelf Friday Pick October 21, 2022 Giveaway.  Open Worldwide. Ending 10/27/2022.
  

• ATBR: Audible Book Review: Ruins of the Galaxy by J.N. Chaney and Christopher Hopper; Genre: Adventure, Military, Space Opera; My Rating: My Rating: 4.25 of 5.0 Overall; Story 4.25; Narration 4.5.

• ATBR: Audible Book Review: The Science of Sci-Fi by Erin Macdonald; Genre: Nonfiction, Science & Engineering, Science; My Rating: 4.25 of 5.0 Overall; Story 4.25; Narration 4.25.

• NG2022: #NetGalley Audio Book Review: Lovelight Farms by B.K. Borison; Genre: Contemporary, Romantic Comedy; My Rating: 4.25 of 5.0 Overall; Story 4.25; Narration 4.25.

• ATBR: Audible Book Review: One-Eyed Jax by R.A. Savatore; Genre: Science Fiction & Fantasy, Fantasy; My Rating: 4.25 of 5.0 Overall; Story 4.25; Narration 4.25.

• Sunday Words of Encouragement October 23, 2022 - Imitate God.
  

Finished Reading:
I read all week for #FRATERFEST and finished six audiobooks:

1. Audio Smartphone (ATBR)

A Ghostly Undertaking
Author Tonya Kappes
Narrator: Tiffany Morgan
Duration: 5 h 39 min
This is a light, fun cozy mystery.
Source: 12/12/2021 Audiobooks.com Two for One Credit.
Click on book title for full description.

2. Audible Smartphone (ATBR)

The Werewolf's 15 Minutes
By: Jonathan Maberry
Narrated by: Ray Porter, Dina Pearlman
Series: Audible Original Stories
Length: 1 hr and 42 mins
This is a perfect fit for #Fraterfest.
10/27-30/2021 Audible Plus Catalog.
Click on book title for full description.

3. Audio Smartphone (ATBR)

Night Shift Witch
Written by Cate Lawley
Narrated by April Doty
Length 3h 32m
This is another light cozy mystery that starts in a funeral home.
Source: October 27th, 2021 Chirp $0.99
Click on book title for full description.

4. Audible Smartphone (A2022)

Dark of Night
A Joe Ledger Novella
By: Jonathan Maberry, Rachael Lavin
Narrated by: Ray Porter
Series: Dead of Night, Book 2.5, Joe Ledger, Book 8.5
Length: 4 hrs and 59 mins
This is a good zombie survivors story that can be read outside of the series.
Source: 3-3-2022 Audible Plus Catalog.
Publisher's Summary
The dead rose. We fell.
The survivors are trapped in a world of monsters who prey on the helpless. Some of them are zombies...but they are not the only predators who feed on pain and suffering.
Dark of Night is a story of worlds in collision. Three heroes who have survived the apocalypse are in a deadly race to save a busload of children from ravenous zombies and ruthless human scavengers.
This brand new novella brings together three of New York Times best-selling author Jonathan Maberry's award-winning series. Captain Joe Ledger (Patient Zero and Code Zero), Officer Desdemona Fox (Dead of Night and Fall of Night), and Rachael Elle (Bits & Pieces) are caught between an endless wave of the living dead and an army of corrupt men who want to enslave the last human survivors.
©2016 Jonathan Maberry and Rachael Lavin (P)2016 Blackstone Audio, Inc.

5. Audible Smartphone (ATBR)

Eli Carter and the Ghost Hackers Books 1-3 Series Boxed Set
Written by Angela Pepper
Narrated by John Pirhalla
Run Time 10h 35min
I read Book 1 of this threesome.
Source: 9/11/2021 Chirp Purchase $.99
BOOK 1: Eli Carter is a smart (yet strange) guy trapped in a dead-end career. When he meets smooth-talking Khan Hart, a self-proclaimed necromancer, he's given the opportunity to become a hero. As soon as he takes the job working for Ghost Hackers, Eli's life takes a turn for the paranormal. For starters, something under his bed is trying to kill him. Now Eli must team up with Khan, face down his fears, and kick the butt of one very strange ghost.

6. Audio Smartphone (ATBR)

A Skeleton in the Family
By Author Leigh Perry
Narrator: Katina Kalin
Duration: 7 h 57 min
This is fun cozy with a skeleton as the protagonists side-kick.
12/31/2021 Audiobooks.com Two for One Credit.
Summary:
Most families have skeletons in their closets … Moving back into her parents’ house with her teenage daughter had not been Georgia Thackery’s “Plan A.” But when she got a job at the local college, it seemed the sensible thing to do. So she settled in and began reconnecting with old friends. Including Sid. Sid is the Thackery family’s skeleton. He’s lived in the house as long as Georgia can remember, although no one, including Sid, knows exactly where he came from and how he came to be a skeleton. Sid walks, he talks, he makes bad jokes, he tries to keep Georgia’s dog from considering him a snack. And he manages to persuade Georgia to let him leave the house. But when she takes him to an anime convention—disguised as a skeleton, of course—he sees a woman who triggers memories of his past. Now he is determined to find out how he died—with Georgia’s help. But their investigation may uncover a killer who’s still alive and well and bad to the bone …

Currently Reading:
I was confused and thinking #Fraterfest stopped Saturday night - but I have two more days!

1. Audio Smartphone (ATBR)

What Lurks Beneath [Dramatized Adaptation]
Written by Ryan Lockwood
Narrated by Collected Narrators
This is a fully dramatized horror story.
I am looking forward to the adventure.
Source: October 27th, 2021 Chirp Purchase $3.99.
Publisher Description
A new breed of terror that rises from the depths of the ocean. To hunt. To devour. To kill.
The first attack occurs in the underwater caverns of the Bahamas. Two professional divers exploring the unknown. A monstrous flesh-ripping predator they never see coming.
Now the attacks are coming closer and closer to shore. A sun-soaked playground for sea-loving tourists. A human feasting ground for whatever lurks beneath.
Now, in a desperate race against time, Eric Watson, an expert on remote control underwater vehicles, and marine biologist Valerie Martell, must identify a savage new species of killer—and piece together one of nature’s most horrific mysteries. But the most terrifying discovery of all waits for Val and her team at the bottom of the sea. A discovery too shocking, to comprehend.
Because up till now, this creature existed only in mankind’s darkest nightmares. Not anymore.

If I have time I will do one more shorter title for #Fraterfest.
Once #Fraterfest is over, I will continue with October reads: mystery, dark or horror.

2. Audio Smartphone (ATBR)

The Warded Man
Written By: Peter V. Brett
Narrated By: Peter Bradbury
Publisher: Recorded Books
Date: December 2009
Duration: 18 hours 16 minutes
I've chosen a longer audio since I am ahead on my GR challenge (and behind on posting reviews).
Source: 10/16/19 Audiobook.com VIP.
Summary:
Peter V. Brett has won accolades from critics, fans and fellow authors alike for this riveting debut novel. The Warded Man features a world where demons stalk the night, hunting humans who have long forgotten the magic of their ancestors. But all is not lost, as some hold out hope that a savior will release humanity from the demons' terrifying reign. 'Brilliant, with action and suspense all the way.' -Terry Brooks

This is a long choice so I may only get one this week.

October 23, 2022 - I am up to date again. I get excited watching the devotion videos. The Bible Reading Plan is: BibleProject | One Story that Leads to Jesus. It really soothes me to read/listen to the pieces each day.
No new study this past week.

I read six audio titles and reviewed four so I made progress but still need to review: 11 books (plus 7 children's books). I keep working on these. :-)

NETGALLEY STATUS--
Back to the three old ebook titles. I will probably end up letting A Place Called Armageddon go as DNF.
I have one author reviews in my queue that I need to start reading on my computer.
(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.

No new review titles this week.
I picked my two September Audible Credits.
Then I found three Audible Plus titles.
One free Kindle title this week.
Are your mailbox and TBR piles blooming?

Review Titles

NONE

Won

I'm expecting a gift card for a win at #Fraterfest Twitter pop-up post. Thanks Kimberly at Caffeinated Reviewer.

Purchased

10/17/22 Audible September Credits - two in series to continue:

Etched in Bone
A Novel of the Others
By: Anne Bishop
Narrated by: Alexandra Harris
Length: 16 hrs and 21 mins

Captain's Share
A Trader's Tale from the Golden Age of the Solar Clipper, Book 5
By: Nathan Lowell
Narrated by: Jeffrey Kafer
Length: 12 hrs and 56 mins

Free

10/19/2022 Audible Plus Catalog (future Fraterfest material).

The Nothing Man
By: Catherine Ryan Howard

The Lesser Dead
By: Christopher Buehlman

Tales of Terror
By: Edgar Allan Poe


One Free Kindle Title:

Displaced
Stephen Drake



One new title added to Kindle library. Free titles often found at Bookbub, Bookfun, Book Adrenaline, Ereader News Today, Inspired Reads, Pixel of Ink or Kindle ebooks.