Sunday Words of Encouragement July 16, 2023 - The Right Priorities

Our Sunday School teacher continued the study in James with James 1:19-21. James was telling the people to seek wisdom from God and to control temptations. In this morning’s verses the message is to be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to anger. Anger operates similar to an uncontrolled fire which is destructive, or a controlled fire which can provide maintenance.

Anger is natural, but people need to find a positive way to express their anger. There is too much anger present in our society today. Human anger doesn't produce justice. Righteous anger produces just action. Stay in your lane. Exercise Control.

Today’s sermon was based on Matthew 6:33 and could be titled “The Right Priorities”. Matthew 6:25-33.

Even if we don't plan it, we all have priorities. Pastor reminded us of the movie Up where the dog, Dug, would be totally distracted by the squirrel. Believers shouldn't be distracted by the things of the world.
Believers need to be eternally minded. Matthew 6:19-21.

God knows what we have need of. He takes care of the plants and birds who do what they are designed to do. He will take care of His people, but we too need to do our work. Matthew 6:25-32.

Sometimes we say I need something when it's really a want. Believers should not be preoccupied with earthly matters. “Your Will be done” is the first thing we are told to pray after recognizing God as our father who is entitled to worship. Matthew 6:5-15.

We need to seek His Kingdom, Peace, and Joy. We get entangled with things of the world that take our attention. But if we seek first God’s kingdom and righteousness, then everything else will follow. Seeking God is putting emphasis on the right relationship. Asking “God lead me”.
Seek peace by being in right relationship.
Seek joy though the Holy Spirit.

Make God’s Kingdom a priority and blessings follow. God provides for and rewards his followers. Submit to God and let the “Main thing be the main thing.”

This song came to mind right away: First Thing First:

A Verse for Today:
Matthew 6:33
33 But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.


Lord, Help me submit to You, to Seek You and Your Kingdom!

Sharing Beyond Books FINAL POST

Saying Goodbye to Sharing Beyond Books.

Thanks to everyone who commented on the last question.
Last post SBB #459: Marjorie asked: Do you have a favourite television show that you enjoy watching??

Here were the responses: Marjorie likes Seinfield reruns, American Pickers, Pawn Stars, and Alone.
Fredamansis a Real Housewifes Junkie!
Elaine G doesn't use a book light.
Ashfa hardly watches TV anymore.
And I am watching news, Blacklist, and NCIS.

The Winner from SBB #459 comments is #2 FREDAMANS.
Please let me know your choice by completing the WINNER FORM.

I have chosen to conclude this meme.
I've had five (5) or fewer responses since January.
Thank you all for participating!
I will be emailing everyone over the next week or so with the win numbers to send out PayPal or Gift Cards. Please watch for the emails and respond.
Or feel free to email me directly.

Stay Well!

Audible Book Review: If Angesl Fall by Rick Mofina

This crime thriller has good twists.
If Angels Fall
By: Rick Mofina
Narrated by: Christian Rummel

Series: Tom Reed and Walt Sydowski, Book 1
Length: 13 hrs and 24 mins
Release date: 12-22-15
Publisher: Audible Studios
Genre: Crime Fiction, Suspense
My Rating: 4.5 of 5.0 Overall; Story 4.5; Narration 4.5.

Publisher's Summary
Tom Reed is a crime reporter with The San Francisco Star whose superb journalistic skills earned him a Pulitzer nomination. But years later Reed's life is coming apart. His editor wants him fired. His wife has left him to wrestle with his demons. Alone, Reed is tormented by the fear he may have caused the suicide of an innocent man suspected of murdering a two-year-old girl.
Reed's friend on the case is legendary San Francisco homicide inspector Walt Sydowski, who has one of California's highest clearance rates. He is also a lonely widower haunted by the fact he cannot solve the girl's heartbreaking death. Both men grapple with the past while they race the clock to learn the truth behind several new abductions that have anguished the Bay Area in this acclaimed thriller set in the late 1990s.
©2000, 2013 Rick Mofina (P)2015 Audible, Inc.

Review:
Tom Reed’s was once a star crime reporter. But a year or so ago his aggressive approach resulted in a potential child killer committing suicide. This event tumbled his career and sent him to the bottle causing the further deterioration of his marriage and his work. Now Tom is trying to report on a new round of child kidnappings.

Meanwhile the head detective on the case is homicide inspector Walt Sydowski who struggles with the fact that he wasn’t able to save the child a year before. The current case isn’t a homicide yet but the authorities recognize he may have some additional insight from his previous investigations. Sydowski and Reed were friends before Reed crossed the line. Now they are a bit standoffish. When Reed has additional information and suspicions, he is reluctant to take them to Sydowski.

The reader/listener is also offered a few of the gritty villain. There is a good progression from his traumatic event, through his continued pain, to his twisted plan. It is creepy and had me routing for Sydowski and Reed.

After a slower start, the story proceeds with good pacing and building tension. I enjoyed the police procedures and the twist in events that brings the story rushing to a suspenseful conclusion. I will be glad to read more by Mr. Mofina and I recommend this to fans of intense crime thrillers.

Audio Notes: Christian Rummel is the voice of another series that I love (D.J. Molles sci fi). I had a few moments of surprise hearing his voice in a different genre. Then I was pleased to hear his distinct voices for the characters and the spot-on emotional input for the story.

Source: July 2023 started as Audible Plus (finished at $1.99). This qualifies for 2023Audiobook goal.

Audible Book Review: Evolution Impossible by Dr. John F. Ashton

I liked the arguments but this might be a book that is better in print, although even then I think it will be dry.

Evolution Impossible
12 Reasons Why Evolution Cannot Explain the Origin of Life on Earth
By: Dr. John F. Ashton
Narrated by: John McLain

Length: 6 hrs and 55 mins
Release date: 03-14-17
Publisher: Blackstone Audio, Inc.
Genre: Apologetics, Nonfiction, Spirituality
My Rating: 3.75 of 5.0 Overall; Story 3.75; Narration 4.0

Publisher's Summary
One of the most compelling and authoritative rebuttals of evolution today, Evolution Impossible shows listeners how fossils are evidence of extinction, not evolution; why mutations never produce new genetic information; how the lack of transitional fossils undermines secular timelines; and why living cells and new classes of organisms don't form by chance.
Using recent discoveries in genetics, biochemistry, geology, radiometric dating, and other scientific disciplines, Dr. Ashton explains chapter by chapter in straightforward language 12 compelling reasons why Darwin's theory of evolution is just a myth.
Taking the evidence refuting evolution to a new level with a wide-ranging analysis, this is a must-listen book for all students, Christian educators, scientists, and anyone eager to defend a biblical worldview.
©2017 Dr. John F. Ashton (P)2017 Blackstone Audio, Inc.

Review:
The author presents one theory after another that purports to support evolution. He then proceeds to debunk the evolutionary arguments, explaining why it has no factual proof or how the supposed scientific support falls short. There is no transition evidence, no mutation evidence, and no fossil evidence that supports the theory of evolution. There also are proven errors in age dating.

I have read numerous works favoring creation or debunking evolution and even taught on creation at church many years ago (in the 1980s). Clearly, I already believe these arguments against evolution, but I do like to read current works since there is always new material, including archeological findings that support the Bible, and studies that support the theory of a young earth.

I enjoyed the author’s topics but found the work to be dry, like a school treatise. This lessened my enjoyment, and I was disappointed since the cover made it look like it would be more engaging. One of the later chapters shares scholarly scientists who support the theory of creation rather than the theory of evolution. This is a lot of listing references. I noted there are many reviews that reject the arguments, but they are not open-minded. I do recommend this be read with an open mind.

Audio Notes: John McLain does a good job on the narration. He provides a clear performance with energy which tries to add to the dry nature of the material. After thinking more about this, I think I am glad I listened to this.

Source: September 2022 Audible Plus. This qualifies for 2023TBR, 2023Audiobook and Nonfiction goals.

Sunday Post July 9, 2023/It's Monday! What are You Reading? Plus Mailbox Monday July 10, 2023

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 a quiet Fourth at home, watching fireworks on the TV.
I am working at the office and coming home to work some more. I will talk to two new potential workers this week. That is to fill staff and doesn't relieve me from the legal tasks.

Saturday I was planning to do computer work but I ended up cooking in the morning.
First croissants, four regular and four with Brie Cheese; then I added sour cherry jam. After brunch I made oatmeal cookies.

At dinner I heated some hot dogs in the air fryer and used croissants as buns.

My continuing prayers include prayers for more unity in all nations, a calmer social atmosphere, and for revival. We are also continuing prays for family and church.

I didn't notice the heat while I was in the AC last week. This coming week will be hot again in at least mid 90s each day.

I finished three audios this past week but only posted two reviews and my memes.

I visited 14 blogs last week.
Shout out this week: LIBRARY MATTERS. Cherie has a lovely Free Verse Friday Post I recommend checking out!

Audiobooks.com is still sharing some free listens for children.

• Sunday Post July 2, 2023/It's Monday! What are You Reading? Plus Mailbox Monday July 3, 2023.

• Happy Independence Day - July 4, 2023.
  

• ANG2023: #NetGalley Audio Book Review: Leila Nugget Mystery: The Case with No Clues by Deserae Brady, Dustin Brady; Genre: Children’s, Chapter Book, Mystery; My Rating: 4.5 of 5.0 Overall; Story 4.5; Narration 4.5.

• MBS June 2023 Reading List Wrap Up.

• MBS - 2023 Audiobook Challenge Mid-Year Status.

• ATBR: Audio Book Review: The Farseer: Assassin's Apprentice by Robin Hobb; Genre: Action & Adventure, Coming of Age, Epic Fantasy; My Rating: 4.5 of 5.0 Overall; Story 4.5; Narration 4.5.

• Sunday Words of Encouragement July 9, 2023 - Our Great God!

Finished Reading:

1. Audible Smartphone (ATBR)

Evolution Impossible
12 Reasons Why Evolution Cannot Explain the Origin of Life on Earth
By: Dr. John F. Ashton
Narrated by: John McLain
Length: 6 hrs and 55 mins
I liked the arguments but this might be a book that is better in print, although even then it will be dry.
Source: September 2022 Audible Plus.
Click on book title for full description.

2. Audible Smartphone (ATBR)

If Angels Fall
By: Rick Mofina
Narrated by: Christian Rummel
Series: Tom Reed and Walt Sydowski, Book 1
Length: 13 hrs and 24 mins
This is a crime fiction author I have eyed for a while.
It has good twists.
Click on book title for full description.

3. NetGalley App Smartphone (A2023)

Flop Dead Gorgeous: An Andy Carpenter Mystery
By David Rosenfelt
Narrator: Grover Gardner
Length: 6hr 43min
This is another good Andy Carpenter legal thriller that was a quick listen.
Source: June 2023 NetGalley.
Click on book title for full description..

Currently Reading:
1. Audible Smartphone (ATBR)

The Age of Embers (A Post-Apocalyptic Survival Thriller)
The Age of Embers, Book 1
By: Ryan Schow
Narrated by: Kevin Pierce
Length: 12 hrs and 18 mins
I picked this for an action, post apocalyptic title.
Source: 12/17/2020 Audible Sale – $5.00.
Publisher's Summary
An Amazon all-star recipient! Fresh off the highly acclaimed The Last War Series, comes a gripping new tale of the apocalypse from bestselling author, Ryan Schow. The Age of Embers Series is perfect for fans of Matthew Mather, Bobby Akart, Jack Hunt, Nicholas Sansbury Smith, Mike Kraus, and Harley Tate.
The end is almost here, are you ready?
A high-tech nightmare. A crippling attack on America and her infrastructure. Are humans in their final days? When a sudden, unexplained spasm of violence rocks the country from coast to coast, when our military is hijacked and the president can’t be found, the survivors will be left to wonder if this is the start of a new world war, or if this is the last chapter of humanity itself.
Undercover DEA agent, Fire Dimas, is drowning in problems: an unrelenting job, a difficult marriage and a teenage daughter with suitors of the worst kind. Then there’s the cartel he double-crossed and the “incident” at the high school. To say he’s in way over his head is the understatement of the century. Rest assured though, for Fire and his family, it’s about to get much, much worse. The assault has already begun....
Eliana Gutierrez and her niece, Carolina, are stolen by the Guatemalan cartel and swallowed into the dark world of human trafficking until a brutal crime separates them. Eliana must now use the deadly trafficking lines to trek up through Mexico and into America in search of the only person she ever loved. Along the way, she’ll come face-to-face with a handsome, rancorous hitman who will either be her salvation or her bitter end. Under the cover of a post-apocalyptic nightmare, Eliana will risk life and limb for the child, but will it be enough?
The Age of Embers is a post-apocalyptic survival series written inside the universe of the best-selling The Last War series. This edge-of-your-seat thriller chronicles the harrowing journey of ordinary people trapped in an encroaching dark age. Get ready for characters you'll want to know in real life, big post-apocalyptic action and a no-holds-barred action/adventure series that just might hit a little too close to home.
Note: The Age of Embers and subsequent books can be listened to as a stand alone series or in addition to The Last War series. Both stories are written in the same universe on the same timeline and some characters will overlap.
©2019 Ryan Schow (P)2019 Ryan Schow

2.Spotify App Smartphone (A2023)

The Poisoned Princess: Warders Book 1
by Armen Pogharian
Narrated by: Michele Babb
Length: 6hr 16 min
The narrator offered this and I enjoy the author and narrator.
Source: July 8 Audio Code for Spotify from Narrator.
Forced to leave the elven forest because of his barbarian heritage, half-elven Toran finds work in a rundown tavern in Eridan’s thieves’ quarter. Combining his keen elven senses and barbarian battle skills, he thwarts an assassination attempt on a visiting princess and earns an invitation to join the secret protectors of Eridan, known as the Warders.

I think I know what I will choose next but I'll wait till I get there.  :-)

July 9, 2023 - I am doing the daily readings of BibleProject plan: The Full Story - "From the beginning to the Amen". Now the readings have moved into Lamentations.
I have enjoyed the seven day study titled I Witnessed It.

I finished three audio titles and posted two reviews. I have the three current reviews due and one I am holding. I have written the review for Never Ending End of the World but thought I would save it for a few weeks to be closer to the release date.

NETGALLEY STATUS--
I have one newer audio and an older one on my shelf.
I still have the two old NetGalley ebook titles.

I have one author review in my queue that I need to start reading on my computer. (I need to look back and see which one this is.)
(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 newest to the team, Emma at Words and Peace.
Warning: Mailbox Monday can lead to envy, toppling TBR piles and humongous wish lists.

One review audio title from the narrator.
I bought one Audible and three audios from Chirp.
I got another six new audios from Audible Plus this past week.
No free Kindle title last week.
Are your mailbox and TBR piles blooming?

Review Titles

July 8 Audio Code for Spotify from Narrator:

The Poisoned Princess: Warders Book 1
by Armen Pogharian
See more info above under Current Reading.

Won

NONE

Purchased

July 6, 2023 I still had 6 hours on this when the free version expired but I was able to get it for $1.99 as I have it on Kindle:

If Angels Fall
Rick Mofina





July 7, 2023 Three audio books at Chirp:

Royal Assassin, Farseer Book 2
Written by Robin Hobb
Narrated by Paul Boehmer
Run Time: 29h 18min
($2.99) Continuing the series after I enjoyed book 1.

Onslaught: An Exile War Novel (Exile War Book 1)
Written by Bowen Greenwood
Narrated by Ian Kirkpatrick
Run Time: 4h 48min
($.99) This came through an author newsletter invite.

A Cornish Summer's Kiss
Written by Jo Bartlett
Narrated by Emma Powell
Run Time: 5h 20min
($1.99) This looked like a fun romance.

Free

July 5 through July 8 Free on Audible Plus:

A Different Mirror
A History of Multicultural America
By: Ronald Takaki
Narrated by: Peter Berkrot
Length: 18 hrs and 35 mins

The Wonderful Wizard of Oz
By: L. Frank Baum, Paul Magrs - adaption
Narrated by: Jim Broadbent, Lydia West
Series: Oz , Book 1, Dramatized Adaptation
Length: 4 hrs and 30 mins

Sherlock Holmes: The Voice of Treason: An Audible Original Drama
By: George Mann, Cavan Scott
Narrated by: Nicholas Boulton, Frances Jeater, Don Gilet, Kobna Holdbrook-Smith, Ivanno Jeremiah, Amy McAllister, full cast
Length: 8 hrs

Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone, Book 1
By: J.K. Rowling
Narrated by: Jim Dale
Series: Wizarding World Collection, Book 1, Harry Potter, Book 1
Length: 8 hrs and 18 mins

Assassin's Creed: Gold: An Audible Original Drama
By: Anthony Del Col
Narrated by: Riz Ahmed, John Chancer, Ray Fearon, Anthony Head, Tamara Lawrance, Gemma Lawrence, Danny Wallace
Series: Assassin's Creed
Length: 4 hrs and 40 mins

Locke & Key
By: Joe Hill, Gabriel Rodriguez
Narrated by: Haley Joel Osment, Tatiana Maslany, Kate Mulgrew, full cast
Length: 13 hrs and 23 mins



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