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Monday, November 27, 2023

Sunday Post November 26, 2023/It's Monday! What are You Reading? Plus Mailbox Monday November 27, 2023

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 wrapped up my several closings last Monday and finished up on Tuesday. I enjoyed time with the children on Wednesday and finally cooked the spaghetti pie I'd been meaning to share. Sadly, we forgot to take a picture. The family liked it and were even happy with leftovers for lunch on Friday.
We had a lovely Thanksgiving hosted by church friends of my son and d-i-l. There was delicious food and my grandchildren had fun playing with the hosts' grandchildren.
My son suspected my computer hard drive was failing so he installed a new one. The hard drive cloned fine but, unfortunately we then had trouble booting up. I was without computer Friday and Saturday.  Then I was driving home Saturday and Sunday, expecting to be back midday Monday.
Last Sunday night I watched the kids rehearse their SheepStuff Christmas Play.

My continuing prayers include prayers for more unity in all nations, a calmer social atmosphere, and for revival. We are also continuing prayers for family and church. And continuing prayers for Israel and Gaza and all the innocents who are being impacted by the war.

I am thankful that we didn't have very many really cold days while I was in Illinois. I am back in Florida and warming up my home here.

I've finished four audios but posted no reviews.
Maybe I'll get to September and October Wrap Ups this coming week with November!

I visited about 10 blogs last week and still no new Shout Outs lined up.

Audiobooks.com is still sharing some free listens for children.
Finished Reading:
1. Audio on Smartphone (ATBR).


Christmas in Three Rivers
Written by Liz Isaacson
Narrated by Becky Doughty
I enjoyed these easy Christmas romances.
Source: January 2021 Chirp $.99

Click on book title for full description.



2. Audible on Smartphone (ATBR).


The Singularity Trap By: Dennis E. Taylor
Narrated by: Ray Porter
Length: 11 hrs and 23 mins
This was an okay sci fi.

Source: 7/24/2019 Audible Daily Deal $4.95.
Click on book title for full description.



3. Audible on Smartphone (ATBR).
Wizard's Alley Audiobook By James Haddock cover art


Wizard's Alley
By: James Haddock
Narrated by: Daniel Wisniewski
Length: 10 hrs and 17 mins
I mostly enjoyed the wizard adventures in this story but it needs a sequel.
Source: 1/26/2022 Audible $5.00 Sale.

Publisher's summary
Scraps, a gutter child, is sitting in his hiding place in a back alley, waiting for the cold thunderstorm to pass. Suddenly, lightning strikes in front of him, and then a second time. The two lightning bolts become men — two wizards — one from the Red Order, the other from the Blue.
The Red Wizard, chanting his curses, throws lightning bolts and fireballs. The Blue Wizard, singing his spells, throws lightning bolts and ice shards. So intense is their fighting, they become lightning rods. It seemed as if God himself cast his lightning bolt, striking the ground between them and consuming both wizards in its white blaze. Scraps watched as the lightning bolt gouged its way across the alley, striking him.
Rain on his face awakens Scraps. The only thing left of the fighting wizards is a smoking crater and their scattered artifacts. He feels compelled to gather their possessions and hide them and himself. The dispersed items glowed red or blue, and he notices that he now has a magenta aura. Magenta, a combination of both red and blue, but more powerful than either.
Scraps then does what he has done all his life to survive. He hides. And unknowingly, he has become the catalyst for change in the Kingdom.
©2019 James A.Haddock III (P)2020 James A. Haddock III.



4. Audio on Smartphone (ATBR).


The Forever, Books 1-2
By: Craig Robertson
Narrated by: Scott Aiello
Series: The Forever Series, Book 1-2
Length: 17 hrs and 22 mins
I chose a longer book for the drive time.
I finished book 1 and 7 chapters of book 2.
Although reasonably entertaining,
I am switching to another book for now.
Source: April 2022 Audible Plus Catalog

Publisher's summary
Contains books one and two of The Forever Series.
Jon Ryan is irreverent, cocky, funny, and walks with a swagger. He says what he means, he says what he wants to, and, in fact, he says what needs to be said.
The cocky fighter pilot turned astronaut is also Earth's only chance for survival. The planet Jupiter, thrown off orbit, will destroy Earth in less than a century. Jon volunteers for the most ambitious, desperate mission ever conceived: His consciousness must be transferred into an experimental android host, where he'll live an immortal - and lonely - life. Jon's only companion on his 50-year voyage is his ship's irritable AI.
After successfully journeying for decades and locating a suitable human resettlement, Jon begins to discover the wonders life can hold, including the power of family and, for once, true peace. But no good deed, or good man, goes unpunished.
The US president wants him dead and is willing to sacrifice his own people to eliminate Jon. An alien species has vowed a holy war to eliminate all humans, either on Earth or wherever they might run. Only Jon can protect humans from their enemies.
With the best planet for colonization ruled by an ancient, malevolent species, there may be no hope for humans in a crowded galaxy. The limits of human technology may not be sufficient. The limits of Jon's endurance may not be enough. His endless enemies may prove to be unstoppable.
Jon may have forever, but does humanity have any future at all?
©2016 Craig Robertson (P)2018 Podium Publishing



Currently Reading:
1. Kindle App on Smartphone (eBTBR)


Harvest Wishes (Starlight Inn)
by Jessica Anne Renwick
I am still moving on and am now at 85% so I do expect to finish this week.
Source: 6/12/22 Free on Kindle.

Click on book title for full description.




2. Audible on Smartphone (A2023).


Existential
Crucible, Book 1
By: Ryan W. Aslesen
Narrated by: Jeffrey Kafer
Length: 10 hrs and 2 mins
I can listen to some of my 2023 acquisitions now
and I have wanted to listen to this series.
Source: 3/15/2023 Audible February Credit.

Publisher's summary
The Alaskan wilderness holds a nightmarish secret that threatens all of humanity in this epic sci-fi horror thriller. An audiobook so scary that it requires a warning label and a global phenomenon that is on track to sell more than one million ebook copies.
It was supposed to be just another mission.
Buried deep in the rugged Alaskan wilderness lies a secret that could alter the future of mankind - a secret that billionaire Elizabeth Grey has invested millions in solving. But when the dig goes silent and all attempts at making contact fail, an elite team of battle-hardened military contractors is brought in led by former Marine Max Ahlgren, a warrior haunted by his past.
While the mission to make contact and rescue a team of scientists and engineers working on an “archeological” project seems like an easy payday, once on ground, the team discovers the grizzly truth that this is no ordinary rescue. Max and his men find themselves in the fight of their lives against a nightmarish enemy like nothing they have ever seen. In what quickly becomes a struggle for survival, the world’s greatest soldiers will encounter the universe’s ultimate terror in a battle that puts all of humanity at stake.
No backup. No escape. No hope.
Terrifying, visceral, and deeply moving, Existential is a novel that will haunt you forever.
Pick up your copy now and embark on an epic journey that will leave your heart pounding with every chapter. The perfect combination of science fiction, explosive action, and intense horror, Existential is a roller-coaster ride of terror!
Warning: This audiobook contains intense scenes of violence and horror. It isn't for the faint of heart. Listener discretion is advised.
©2018 Ryan W. Aslesen (P)2018 Podium Publishing


I am sure I will get to another audio but I have not decided which one yet. 

November 26, 2023 - I am doing the daily readings of BibleProject plan: The Full Story - "From the beginning to the Amen". I enjoyed the readings in James and 1st and 2nd Thessalonians.


I finished two books and posted no reviews, putting me further behind.  I am still behind with 12 reviews to post.

NETGALLEY STATUS--
I have an older audio on my shelf I should listen to (soon).
I still have the two old NetGalley ebook titles.

Other Sources: I have a dozen or so books that I received from Facebook links and newsletter sign-ups, not specific review requests. plus many titles through InstaFreebie over the past few years.


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 newest to the team, Emma at Words and Peace.
Warning: Mailbox Monday can lead to envy, toppling TBR piles and humongous wish lists.
No new review titles this week.
I have 26 Audible Plus titles over the past two weeks. I am listing ten this week.
No new Kindle title this week.
Are your mailbox and TBR piles blooming?

Review Titles
NONE

Won
NONE

Purchased
NONE

Free
I am listing 10 Audible Plus titles from 11/13 to 11/18/23.
The Vanishing Hour
By: Seraphina Nova Glass
Narrated by: Brittany Pressley

Length: 8 hrs and 28 mins



You Have Been Judged
Judge, Jury, Executioner, Book 1
By: Craig Martelle, Michael Anderle
Narrated by: Chloe Cannon

Length: 6 hrs and 34 mins


Junkyard War
By: Faith Hunter
Narrated by: Khristine Hvam
Series: Shining Smith, Book 3

Length: 6 hrs and 35 mins


Bond of a Dragon: Publisher's Pack
Bond of a Dragon, Books 1-2
By: AJ Walker
Narrated by: Ben Farrow

Length: 22 hrs and 58 mins


Zombified: Real-World Lessons from Fictional Apocalypses
By: Athena Aktipis, The Great Courses
Narrated by: Athena Aktipis
Length: 2 hrs and 33 mins

Is Atheism Dead?
By: Eric Metaxas
Narrated by: Eric Metaxas

Length: 16 hrs and 48 mins



The Neighborhood
By: Matthew Betley
Narrated by: George Newbern

Length: 8 hrs and 45 mins


The Path of the Crooked
Hope Street Church Mysteries Series #1
By: Ellery Adams
Narrated by: Cris Dukehart

Length: 7 hrs and 54 mins


Dungeon Worlds
Reborn Online Series, Book 1
By: Aurora Weiss
Narrated by: Travis Baldree

Length: 7 hrs and 5 mins

Starship's Mage Omnibus
Starship's Mage Series #1
By: Glynn Stewart
Narrated by: Jeffrey Kafer

Length: 10 hrs and 58 mins


No new title added to Kindle library.  Free titles might be found at Bookbub, Book Adrenaline, Ereader News Today, Inspired Reads, or Kindle ebooks.

Thursday, November 23, 2023

Happy Thanksgiving 2023!

No matter that we have problems and struggles, we are BLESSED!

Psalm 95:2-3: "Let's come before him with thanks! Let's shout songs of joy to him! The Lord is a great God, the great king over all other gods."



Today's Bible Verse ~ Psalm 95:1-2 | News and Views

Sunday, November 19, 2023

Sunday Post November 19, 2023/It's Monday! What are You Reading? Plus Mailbox Monday November 20, 2023

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

It's Monday! What Are You Reading? now at The Book Date (at Wordpress)
What Are You Reading? is where we gather to share what we have read this past week and what we plan to read this week. It is a great way to network with other bloggers, see some wonderful blogs, and put new titles on your reading list.



The children are all back to healthy and looking forward to a short school week.
My office work continues steady.
My son has been working on the computer and internet intermittently trying to get them to work better together. I had two nights last week where my computer crashed and I had to recreate documents. Usually they can be recovered but for some reason this week they weren't backing up properly.
My son had to install a new pool cover and has had to work around two periods of rain.
The children have been raking up piles of leaves.

My continuing prayers include prayers for more unity in all nations, a calmer social atmosphere, and for revival. We are also continuing prayers for family and church.
I am still praying that people would study the history of the Israel and Palestine nations more before they do all this protesting and particularly I pray that no one would seek the annihilation of another people. And continuing prayers for Israel and Gaza and all the innocents who are being impacted by the war.

The weather here is now consistently in the 40s and 50s, occasionally getting into the 60s. Night time temps are in the 30s.

I've finished two audios and posted two reviews with my Sunday memes.
Maybe I'll get to September  and October Wrap Ups this coming week with November!

I only visited about 5 blogs last week and still no new Shout Outs lined up.

Audiobooks.com is still sharing some free listens for children.
  • ATBR: Audio Book Review: A Death at Eastwick by L.C. Warman; Genre:Mystery, Whodunit, Young Adult, My Rating: 3.5 of 5.0 Overall; Story 3.5; Narration 3.5.
Finished Reading:
1. Audio on Smartphone (ATBR).
The Cold Dish


The Cold Dish
By Craig Johnson
Duration: 13 h 20 min
I found this a little depressing.
Source 7/28/19 Audiobooks.com Free VIP pick.
Click on book title for full description.



2. Audio on Smartphone (ATBR).
Book cover for Bunker (Book 4) by Jay J. Falconer


Bunker (Book 4) Lock and Load
Written by Jay J. Falconer
Read by Gary Tiedemann
Run Time 6h 45min
I wanted to listen to something fast paced and I knew I would like this series. My disappointment is it ending and I'll have to go to book 5 for more.
10/2/2021 Chirp Purchase $2.99.

Machine Guns. Murder. Mayhem.
The insurgents rule of terror is complete. They control everything. Everything except a band of patriots who want their town back.
Reclaiming their home won’t be easy. Not against overwhelming firepower. But Jack Bunker is ready. He has the skills and training to lead them in an explosive battle of survival.
Victory will come at a steep price; however, when dark secrets are revealed, exposing some while protecting others. Treachery abounds as tempers boil, romance blossoms, and codes are deciphered, leading some to make deals with the enemy to settle old scores.
For Jack Bunker, trust becomes a luxury. So does time, when the grand conspiracy finally reveals itself.



Currently Reading:
1. Kindle App on Smartphone (eBTBR)


Harvest Wishes (Starlight Inn)
by Jessica Anne Renwick
My kindle reading is still pretty slow so I am only at 35%.
Source: 6/12/22 Free on Kindle.

Click on book title for full description.



2. Audio on Smartphone (ATBR).


Christmas in Three Rivers
Written by Liz Isaacson
Narrated by Becky Doughty
I was ready for more Christmas and this adds to my Number Challenge also.
I'm enjoying the easy romances.
Source: January 2021 Chirp $.99

Publisher Description
Isn’t Christmas the best time to fall in love? The cowboys of Three Rivers Ranch think so. Join FOUR of them in this Christmas cowboy romance collection as they journey toward their path to happily ever after!
THE NINTH INNING: The Christmas season has never felt like such a burden to boutique owner Andrea Larsen. But with Mama gone and the holidays upon her, Andy finds herself wishing she hadn’t been so quick to judge her former boyfriend, cowboy Lawrence Collins. Well, Lawrence devises a plan to get her out to the ranch so they can reconnect. Do they have the faith and humility to patch things up and start a new relationship?
TEN DAYS IN TOWN: Sandy Keller is tired of the dating scene in Three Rivers. When her older brother’s best friend, Tad Jorgensen, comes to town for the holidays, it is a balm to his weary soul. A helicopter tour guide who experienced a near-death experience, he’s looking to start over too–but in Three Rivers. Can Sandy and Tad navigate their troubles to find the path God wants them to take–and discover true love–in only ten days?
ELEVEN YEAR REUNION: Pastry chef extraordinaire, Grace Lewis has moved to Three Rivers to help Heidi Ackerman open a bakery. She doesn’t expect to run into her old high school boyfriend, Jonathan Carver. But with her focus on baking and his disdain for small towns, can they make their eleven year reunion stick?
THE TWELFTH TOWN: Newscaster Taryn Tucker has had enough of life on-screen. She takes a job cleaning at Three Rivers Ranch, hoping for a chance to figure out who she is and where God wants her. When she meets happy-go-lucky cowhand Kenny Stockton, she doesn’t expect sparks to fly. Will they have the courage and faith necessary to make their opposite worlds mesh?



3. Audible on Smartphone (ATBR).


The Singularity Trap By: Dennis E. Taylor
Narrated by: Ray Porter
Length: 11 hrs and 23 mins
I continue to work on older TBR titles. And I am alternating between my Audio libraries.

Source: 7/24/2019 Audible Daily Deal $4.95.
About This Audible Original
Dennis E. Taylor, author of the best-selling Bobiverse trilogy, explores a whole different, darker world in this sci-fi stand-alone. Determined to give his wife and children a better life back home, Ivan Pritchard ventures to the edge of known space to join the crew of the Mad Astra as an asteroid miner. He's prepared for hard work and loneliness—but not the unthinkable. After coming into contact with a mysterious alien substance, Pritchard finds an unwelcome entity sharing his mind, and a disturbing physical transformation taking place. With his very humanity at stake, Pritchard must save mankind from a full-scale interstellar war.
Brought to life by prolific, award-winning narrator Ray Porter, The Singularity Trap is a thrilling adventure rife with drama and action on a truly cosmic scale.
©2018 Dennis E. Taylor (P)2018 Audible Originals, LLC. Cover illustration by Stephan Martiniere.



November 20, 2023 - I am doing the daily readings of BibleProject plan: The Full Story - "From the beginning to the Amen". I enjoyed the readings in Hebrews and am now in the instructions of James.
I enjoyed the 7 day study: The Blessing Devotional Plan.


I finished two books and posted two reviews.  I am still behind with 12 reviews to post.

NETGALLEY STATUS--
I have an older audio on my shelf I should listen to soon.
I still have the two old NetGalley ebook titles.

Other Sources: I have a dozen or so books that I received from Facebook links and newsletter sign-ups, not specific review requests. plus many titles through InstaFreebie over the past few years.


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 newest to the team, Emma at Words and Peace.
Warning: Mailbox Monday can lead to envy, toppling TBR piles and humongous wish lists.
No new review titles this week.
I selected my two Audible credits this week.
I have six titles from the Audible Plus catalog from last week and this weekend, while choosing my 2 credits I found another 20 from my wish list! No time to list them now. 
No new Kindle title this week.

Are your mailbox and TBR piles blooming?

Review Titles
NONE

Won
NONE

Purchased
11/18/2023 Two Audible Credits: I picked two boxed sets with new to me authors.
The Keeper Chronicles: The Complete Trilogy Audiobook By JA Andrews cover art
The Keeper Chronicles: The Complete Trilogy
By: JA Andrews
Narrated by: Tim Gerard Reynolds
Series: The Keeper Chronicles, Book 1-3

Length: 46 hrs and 32 mins

The 13th Paladin Boxed Set Audiobook By Torsten Weitze, Tim Casey - translator cover art
The 13th Paladin Boxed Set
By: Torsten Weitze, Tim Casey - translator
Narrated by: Gildart Jackson
Series: The 13th Paladin, Book 1-3

Length: 43 hrs and 57 mins


Free
I have six titles from the Audible Plus catalog from last week and this weekend, while choosing my 2 credits I found another 20 from my wish list! No time to list them now.

No new title added to Kindle library.  Free titles might be found at Bookbub, Book Adrenaline, Ereader News Today, Inspired Reads, or Kindle ebooks.

Sunday Words of Encouragement November 19, 2023 - What is Your Impact?

This Sunday my son’s pastor shared about their mission trip to Kenya last month. They were equipping pastors and Sunday School teachers. The focus being on: What kind of impact will I make? And What kind of impact will the local church make?

The purpose of the missions is not about the leaders individually, but about God being glorified.
They shared the message of the Good Samaritan. Luke 10:30-37.
1. What did you like about the lesson? (That the Samaritan helped the injured man.)
2. What didn’t you like? (How the priest and Levite walked by and didn't help.)
3. Where do you see Jesu (Jesus) in the lesson? (In the actions of the Samaritan.)
4. How can you apply the lesson in your own life? (Help others, even strangers.)

The Sunday School students were taught the “Why” of the lesson and the “How”. They use everyday items (recycling) that they have on hand.
They shared simple crafts, memory game, and things like the armor of God.
Each of the eight members of the team went off to different churches to share. This made the senior pastors a little nervous to watch their spouses go off in strange cars to places unknown. Pastor said they could either “Feed the fear or feed the faith.” So they chose to trust in God and the Bishop of the area.

We all have an impact on others. Will it be a good or bad impact? More importantly will it be the only impact that counts? An impact that is eternal for the Glory of God. Showing Christ to others. 2 Corinthians 2:15-17.

Be sincere and loving. Put the good word of God to work within yourself and share it wherever you go. We are each stinky in our sinful nature. But God in us is a good aroma. Let us have eternal impact at all levels: family, friends, school, work, and community. Personal relationship.

I like this song for today’s message: Until the Whole World Hears.
Verses for Today:
2 Corinthians 2:15-17 NIV
15 For we are to God the pleasing aroma of Christ among those who are being saved and those who are perishing. 16 To the one we are an aroma that brings death; to the other, an aroma that brings life. And who is equal to such a task? 17 Unlike so many, we do not peddle the word of God for profit. On the contrary, in Christ we speak before God with sincerity, as those sent from God.


Lord, let my life point to you so others see more of You and less of me.



Corinthians 2:15 For We Are To God The Sweet Aroma Of, 59% OFF

What Does 2 Corinthians 2:15 Mean?

Saturday, November 18, 2023

Audio Book Review: Gossip and Gorgons, Book 3 of Manners and Monsters Collection by Tilly Wallace

I totally enjoy these characters and the mysteries they unravel. #Fraterfest #7
Gossip and Gorgons, Book 3 of Manners and Monsters Collection: A Regency paranormal mystery series
by Tilly Wallace
Narrated By: Marian Hussey

Manners and Monsters Collection: A Regency paranormal mystery series

Book 3 Listening length: 7 hours, 38 minutes
Total Collection Duration: 23 hours 46 minutes
Series: Manners and Monsters, Book 1-3
Release date: 03-03-21
Publisher: Tilly Wallace
Genres: Fantasy, Historical Fiction, Mystery, Paranormal
My Rating: 4.75 of 5.0 Overall; Story 4.75; Narration 4.75.


One look could turn you to stone...
The newly married Lord and Lady Wycliff are cordially invited to a house party--to be mocked and ridiculed as entertainment. Wycliff insists on attending to discuss business with the host, while Hannah longs to hide in the library with its rare volumes on the Fae.
Bound to Wycliff even beyond death, Hannah wonders how she will survive the week--when a guest unexpectedly expires. A notorious cad is discovered turned into a statue in the garden. The dead lord had many enemies, including Lord Wycliff.
Hannah's accord with her husband is tested when a trail of footprints leads to their window. What secret is Wycliff hiding and does he know more about the magical death than he admits? Someone among the house guests has murder on their mind and the newlyweds need to determine who, before anyone else is immortalised as stone...


Review:

Hannah is now married to the dark and dangerous Lord Wycliff. Both of them are on the fringe of society but Hannah agrees to accompany her husband to a week-long country party because Wycliff is trying to get the host (or father of the hostess to be precise) to invest in his land improvements.

Along the way to the event, Hannah is mocked by three unpleasant young men who are driven off by Lord Wycliff. She isn’t too pleased to see the three cads arrive as guests at the event. The leader of the trio is found turned to a statute in the garden. As Wycliff begins to investigate the clearly magical death, Hannah does her own investigations with the help of her mother by magical distance contact. Hannah discovers some strange foot prints outside the bedroom where she and her new husband were placed. Now she has new secrets to ferret out about her own husband as well as the murder.

I really enjoy Hannah and Wycliff with their unique paranormal elements and their slowly growing awareness and affection for each other. There is good humor mixed with the mystery and I enjoy the magical elements. I am pulled into the story and remain engaged. I plan to get the next collection soon. I recommend this to fans of Regency romance filled with magic and mystery.

Audio Notes: Marian Hussey does a lovely job with the narration. The voices are distinct and the energy and pacing add to my enjoyment of the story.

Source: 11/1/2020 Audiobooks.com Credit Purchase. This qualifies for 2023TBR, 2023Audiobook and #Fraterfest goals.

Audio Book Review: A Death at Eastwick by L.C. Warman

I enjoyed the twists in this whodunit mystery.
A Death at Eastwick
Written by L.C. Warman
Narrated by Brooke Myers
A Death at Eastwick

Run time: 5 hours and 4 minutes
Release Date: October 23, 2019
Publisher: Greenleaf & Plympton
Genre: Mystery, Whodunit, Young Adult
My Rating: 3.5 of 5.0 Overall; Story 3.5; Narration 3.5.


When John Eastwick, Jr.’s father dies, he finds out about one family secret that will change his life forever. But a murder the night of the memorial service raises the question—what else was his beloved father hiding?
***
21-year-old John Eastwick, Jr., has lived a charmed and cozy life. The sole heir of the Eastwick family fortune, John is on the cusp of graduating from the renowned Montvale University out east before returning home to run his family business. But in late fall of his final year, John’s father dies of heart failure. Days later, his father is named as one of the disgraced moguls who bribed John’s way into his prestigious college.
Kicked out of school, John returns home to his distraught mother at their lakeside mansion to bury his father. There, John’s world continues to crumble beneath his feet: the will that the family lawyer reads bears no resemblance to the last version that the late John Eastwick, Sr. created. In fact, John Eastwick, Sr. has divided his estate not only between his son and wife, but the family chef, their loyal lawyer, his young secretary, and his estranged brother.
John wonders, is his father trying to atone for past mistakes--and what other secrets might he be keeping?
But that night, after the reading of the will, one among the group is murdered. And John Eastwick, Jr., must not only piece together who the threat is, but also face what else his beloved father might have been hiding.


Review:
John is distressed when his father dies of heart failure, but John becomes more alarmed a few days later as a scandal unfolds claiming his father bribed John’s way into his prestigious college. John leaves his senior year to return home and deal with the gathering of his uncle, aunt and their son, and close employees who have come for the reading of the Will. The bequests are a total surprise with substantial gifts to others in addition to the widow and John Jr.

The morning after the Will is read, one of the guests is found dead. Then it is discovered that a million-dollar painting is missing. John sets out to uncover the murderer and the thieve in the group while also trying to determine other hidden secrets his father was hiding.

There are several well developed, unpleasant suspects, particularly the deceased’s estranged brother with his pretentious wife and spoiled, lazy son. Several of the employees are also surprise beneficiaries and their actions are suspect too.

Although I did enjoy the twists and turns in the plot, the story is a bit bland and at times repetitive. I wanted the scenes to move on to uncover the villain. This is a mystery for fans of the “Whodunit” genre.

Audio Notes: Brooke Myers does a fair job with the narration. The voices are distinct although the story seems “read” more than presented with energy. The audio helped move the book along for me.

Source: 3/21/2020 Chirp deal $.99. This qualifies for 2023TBR and 2023Audiobook goals.

Sunday, November 12, 2023

Sunday Post November 12, 2023/It's Monday! What are You Reading? Plus Mailbox Monday November 13, 2023

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.



It is hard to believe I went 13 days without posting! I now remember why I went to work and had other people care for my children. And I was grateful my husband cooked!

Our office work suddenly got busy so we did five closings last week with me covering most of them by phone. I have been on the computer 9 to 5, then fixing dinner for the children, my son and me. My d-i-l eats mostly Chinese dishes and makes her own soups, Chinese vegetables, and other dishes so I can't help much with that. I'm helping with dish washing and laundry though, as well as entertaining the kids with card games. And the youngest twin has been sick with a high fever and sinus infection for a week.

I've been up by 6:30am to make sure the kids have breakfast before getting off to school then I shower and dress to work on the computer. At night I have been doing some legal work before going to bed around 10pm to a quiet house. Too tired to get on the computer to post.

Here is a fun photo of us dressed up for Halloween at the Church Fall Festival.

My continuing prayers include prayers for more unity in all nations, a calmer social atmosphere, and for revival. We are also continuing prayers for family and church.
I am still praying that people would study the history of the Israel and Palestine nations more before they do all this protesting and particularly I pray that no one would seek the annihilation of another people. And continuing prayers for Israel and Gaza and all the innocents who are being impacted by the war.

The weather got cold for a week and then Tuesday, a teacher's day off for the kids, we had a beautiful day of 80 degrees. The next day it started cooling again and today was in the high 40s where I expect it to remain with dips to 31 during the nights.

I've finished four audios and the ebook in the past two weeks. This week I posted two review posts covering 5 books.
Maybe I'll get to September  and October Wrap Ups this coming week.

I visited 13 blogs two weeks ago and 10 last week. No Shout out lined up.

Audiobooks.com is still sharing some free listens for children.
Finished Reading:
1. Audio on Smartphone (ATBR).
Trick or Treat Murder, Leslie Meier #1


Trick or Treat Murder
Author Leslie Meier
Narrator: Karen White
Duration: 7 h 17 min
I enjoyed this light mystery.

Source: 10/1/2022 VIP Audiobooks.com.
Click on book title for full description.



2. Kindle App on Smartphone (eBTBR)


Outage Boxed Set: Books 1-3
(Outage Horror Suspense Series)
by T.W. Piperbrook
This is definitely horror.
Source: 2/28/2016 free Kindle.

Click on book title for full description.



3. Audible on Smartphone (ATBR).


Upland Autumn: Birds, Dogs, and Shotgun Shells
By: William G. Tapply
Narrated by: Clay Teunis
I enjoyed this warm, true stories collection.
Source: November 2020 Audible Plus.

Click on book title for full description.



4. Audio on Smartphone (A2023).
Quant


Quant
Series: #1 of Colony
Written by: Richard F. Weyand
Narrated by: Derek Shoales
Duration: 7 hours 28 minutes
I found this AI assisted adventure interesting.
Source: 5/5/2023 Two for One Credit at Audiobooks.com.
Summary
SOME UNEXPECTED HELP WITH THE SINGLE-PLANET PROBLEM
Billionaire industrialist Ted Burke understands that humanity has always balanced on the edge of a knife. A single planetary cataclysm could wipe out the human race. As long as humanity only occupies one planet, the danger exists.
Computer genius Bernd Decker understands it, too. Together, Burke and Decker come up with a daring plan to send human colonies out to multiple other planets. Not least among their problems is that no one yet has solved the problem of interstellar travel.
Bernd Decker's computer project offers to help. But Decker doesn't realize that the Joint Artificial Neural Intelligence Computation Engine-JANICE-has crossed the Singularity.



5. Audible on Smartphone (ATBR).


A Study in Scarlet Women
By: Sherry Thomas
Narrated by: Kate Reading
Series: Lady Sherlock, Book 1
Length: 11 hrs
I am still working on some older TBRs and decided to listen to this one which is a first in a series.
I enjoyed the mystery and the twist on the characters.
Source: 4/29/17 Audible Daily Deal $3.95.

Publisher's summary
USA Today best-selling author Sherry Thomas turns the story of the renowned Sherlock Holmes upside down.
With her inquisitive mind, Charlotte Holmes has never felt comfortable with the demureness expected of the fairer sex in upper-class society. But even she never thought that she would become a social pariah, an outcast fending for herself on the mean streets of London.
When the city is struck by a trio of unexpected deaths and suspicion falls on her sister and her father, Charlotte is desperate to find the true culprits and clear the family name. She'll have help from friends new and old, but in the end, it will be up to Charlotte, under the assumed name Sherlock Holmes, to challenge society's expectations and match wits against an unseen mastermind.
©2016 Sherry Thomas (P)2016 Blackstone Audio, Inc.



Currently Reading:
1. Kindle App on Smartphone (eBTBR)


Harvest Wishes (Starlight Inn)
by Jessica Anne Renwick
I was ready for a holiday story and found this “Harvest” title for a Kindle read.
It is still warming up at 25% in.

Source: 6/12/22 Free on Kindle.

With her life in tatters after ending an abusive marriage, Madison literally falls into the arms of her ex-high school sweetheart—the only man she’s ever truly loved. Will she allow him to help mend the broken pieces of her heart, finally finding the love she deserves?
A failed marriage. No job. A looming court date to face her abusive ex-husband. Worst of all, she’s had to move back in with her parents. But just when Madison Talbot thinks things can’t get any worse, she bumps into her high school sweetheart—literally. Romance is the last thing Madison needs, especially with the man who once left her high and dry—so she keeps telling herself.
Dylan Stewart returned to Cedar Lake to be with his family after an unimaginable tragedy and is set on staying for good. When Madison moves back to town, he’s got one more reason to make his work-from-home arrangement stick. As the guy who broke her heart first, can he help her see him in a new light?
After reconnecting over festival planning at the Starlight Inn, old feelings between them spark to a flame. But between family meddling and the wounds from Madison’s traumatic past, the ties between them soon begin to unravel.
Can these two learn to face the world together, or are they doomed to repeat their past mistakes?



2. Audio on Smartphone (A2023).
The Cold Dish


The Cold Dish
By Craig Johnson
Duration: 13 h 20 min
This is the first in the Longmire series.
I decided to work on my VIP picks
starting with older ones.
Source 7/28/19 Audiobooks.com Free VIP pick.
Summary
Award-winning author Craig Johnson's critically acclaimed debut Western mystery takes listeners to the breathtaking mountains of Wyoming for a tale of cold-blooded vengeance. Two years earlier, four high school boys were given suspended sentences for raping a Cheyenne girl. Now, two of the boys have been killed, and only Sheriff Walt Longmire can keep the other two safe. 'Johnson, who lives in Ucross, Wyoming, knows the Western landscape well, and creates stunning and violent scenes of the Rocky Mountains.'-Bookmarks


Not sure if I will get to another audio. I have a few in mind.

November 12, 2023 - I am doing the daily readings of BibleProject plan: The Full Story - "From the beginning to the Amen". My readings have gone through Paul's letters in Ephesians, Philippians, Colossians, 1st and 2nd Timothy, Titus, and Philmon. Tomorrow I will start in Hebrews - a book of Faith.
I am on day 4 of a 7 day study: The Blessing Devotional Plan.


I finished five books and posted five reviews.  I am still behind with 12 reviews to post.

NETGALLEY STATUS--
I have an older audio on my shelf I should listen to soon.
I still have the two old NetGalley ebook titles.

Other Sources: I have a dozen or so books that I received from Facebook links and newsletter sign-ups, not specific review requests. plus many titles through InstaFreebie over the past few years.


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 newest to the team, Emma at Words and Peace.
Warning: Mailbox Monday can lead to envy, toppling TBR piles and humongous wish lists.
No new review titles this week.
I selected my Audiobooks.com VIP choice and used a 2 for 1 credit this week.
I also picked up more Audible Plus titles -7 posted here and 4 more which I will link in next week.
One new Kindle title this week.

Are your mailbox and TBR piles blooming?

Review Titles
NONE

Won
NONE

Purchased
NONE

Free
10/31-11/3 Audible Plus Catalog Picks:
A Murder for the Books
By: Victoria Gilbert
Narrated by: Amy Melissa Bentley
A Blue Ridge Library Mystery, Book 1

Length: 11 hrs and 12 mins

Shelved Under Murder
By: Victoria Gilbert
Narrated by: Coleen Marlo
Blue Ridge Library Mystery Series, Book 2

Length: 8 hrs and 15 mins
Of course I am drawn to books about books... and murder.

Arctic Fury
By: Greer Macallister
Narrated by: Eva Kaminsky
Length: 12 hrs and 4 mins
Historical, Women’s Crime Fiction

Rise of the Grandmaster
By: Bradford Bates, Michael Anderle
Narrated by: Sean William Doyle
Rise of the Grandmaster Series, Book 1

Length: 20 hrs and 36 mins
This looks alike an Epic, Fantasy I would enjoy.

Death Becomes Her [Dramatized Adaptation]
By: Michael Anderle
Narrated by: full cast, Colleen Delany, Emily Beresford, Bradley Smith, Michael John Casey, Terence Aselford, Stephon Walker, David Coyne, Christopher Graybill, Nora Achrati, Richard Rohan, Alejandro Ruiz
Series: The Kurtherian Gambit, Book 1, Dramatized Adaptation, The Kurtherian Gambit Universe, Book 1, Dramatized Adaptation
Length: 5 hrs and 16 mins
I’ve been wanting to start this series.

Queen Bitch (Dramatized Adaptation)
By: Michael Anderle
Narrated by: full cast, Colleen Delany, Emily Beresford, Bradley Smith, Danny Gavigan, Zeke Alton, James Lewis, James Konicek, Joel David Santner, Terence Aselford, Christopher Graybill, Jonathan Lee Taylor
Series: The Kurtherian Gambit Universe, Book 2, Dramatized Adaptation, The Kurtherian Gambit, Book 2, Dramatized Adaptation

Length: 4 hrs and 53 mins

Steel Dragon
By: Kevin McLaughlin, Michael Anderle
Narrated by: Emily Beresford
Series: Steel Dragons, Book 1
Length: 17 hrs and 45 mins


11/11/2023 Audiobooks.com VIP free selection.
Sleepless City: A Nick Ryan Novel
Sleepless City: A Nick Ryan Novel
Series: #1 of The Nick Ryan Series
Written by: Reed Farrel Coleman
Narrated by: Peter Giles

Duration: 11 hours 38 minutes


11/11/2023 Audiobooks.com Two for One Credit.

My Queendom for a Horse
My Queendom for a Horse
Series: #1 of The Russian Witch's Curse
Written by: Bridget E. Baker
Narrated by: Cindy Gunderson

Duration: 9 hours 31 minutes
Dark Angel: A Military Action and Supernatural Warfare Thriller
Dark Angel: A Military Action and Supernatural Warfare Thriller
Series: #2 of The Shepherds Series
Written by: Jeffrey Wilson, Brian Andrews
Narrated by: Macleod Andrews

Duration: 11 hours 10 minutes


11/5/2023 One Free Kindle
Servant of the Crown: An Epic Fantasy Novel (Heir to the Crown Book 1)
Paul J Bennett




One new title added to Kindle library.  Free titles might be found at Bookbub, Book Adrenaline, Ereader News Today, Inspired Reads, or Kindle ebooks.

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