Tour Book Review and Giveaway Link: Midnight Kiss: Touched by Midnight, Book 1 by Nancy Gideon

I enjoyed this engaging, sensual vampiric experience.

Midnight Kiss: Touched by Midnight, Book 1

by Nancy Gideon

Amazon | Barnes & Noble | All Romance | Kobo Books

Genre: Paranormal Romance

Published by: Imajinn Books

Release Date: July 12, 2015

Length: 262 Pages

My Rating: 4.25 of 5.0

“Dark and compelling, Gideon's novel will appeal to those who enjoy the vampire novels of Anne Rice.” —Library Journal

“A colorful and hauntingly beautiful tale of otherworldly love . . . destined to become a classic!”—Affaire de Coeur

“Incredible, spellbinding reading!” —Rendezvous

Hunt or be hunted . . . A centuries old obsession stalks a noble family fighting to hide their dark secret from an ever-changing world. Sink your teeth into Nancy Gideon's Touched by Midnight series.

A DARK CURSE

Miss Arabella Howland is content to forgo the London marriage mill to assist her father in his research, especially when it comes to his intriguing patient, Louis Radman. But it’s not long before Bella’s curiosity alerts her to the danger of her father’s work . . . and to the fact that Louis is not who or what he seems.

A BRIGHT PROMISE

After centuries struggling with his vile existence, Louis Radman will soon be free of his affliction, thanks to his very capable physician. Unfortunately, his heart is less secure around the man’s tempting daughter. His yearning to walk in the light once more is complicated by his desire for the delightful Bella, who is as intelligent as she is fearless. But if history has taught him anything, it’s not to tempt fate.

AN UNFORGIVING PAST

Still, happiness has a price and Louis is soon reminded that mortality comes with unfortunate limitations. To protect his new bride, he must face the demons from his past who wish to pull him back into their vampiric fold.

Yet, if he’s forced to return to his midnight world, will he lose his beloved Bella forever?

Review:
Arabella isn’t interested in the marriage mart but loves aiding her physician father with his medical research. She is particularly interested in his mysterious patient, Louis Radman. Radman is a handsome, reclusive, dark nobleman. Dr. Howland refuses to tell Arabella any details about his treatment for Radman. Arabella is startled one night when she greets Radman in her father’s absence. He is gaunt and pale and she doesn’t know how to help him. But even with her innocence, she is strangely drawn to Radman in a sensual fog.

Louis Radman is sick of his dark life with its evil compulsions. He has sought the help of Dr Howland seeking medical treatment to return him to a human state, including mortality. Louis is surprised by his attraction to Arabella. He knows he should stay away until the treatment is successful but he finds it hard to resist her. He also isn’t willing to let the Dr.’s ambitious assistant put Arabella into a compromising position.

Just as Louis appears to be on the verge of success some old ‘friends’ appear seeking revenge for past hurts. Louis knows he will have to face his fiercest enemies in order to protect Arabella.

I enjoyed the different perspective of this story with its initial hopeful tone. I appreciated the action and danger and when things turned dark I was fully engaged wanting to know what would happen. Having just read a more erotic vampire story, I was glad to choose this title as it appeared to be less raw. There is wonderful chemistry between Arabella and Radman and their relationship heats up in sensuality but never becomes truly graphic. This story wraps with a few surprises and the other two books look like they would be engaging as well.

I received this title for Series Tour through Novel Book Tours.

ABOUT NANCY GIDEON

Website | Blog | Twitter | Facebook | Google+ | Goodreads | Amazon Author Page

Nancy Gideon is the author of over 55 novels ranging from Regencies, historicals and contemporary suspense to dark paranormal romance, with a couple of horror screenplays thrown into the mix.

​When not at the keyboard or working full time as a legal assistant in Southwest Michigan, she can be found feeding her addictions for Netflix and all things fur, feather and fin, enjoying Grammy time (usually watching The Avengers), and meeting new friends and readers through her GoodReads “Nancy Gideon by Moonlight” group. Her books can also be found under the pen names Dana Ransom, Rosalyn West and Lauren Giddings.

Midnight Kiss - Excerpt

Midnight Temptation (Touched by Midnight - Book 2)

Midnight Temptation (Touched by Midnight - Book 2)

by Nancy Gideon
Amazon | Barnes & Noble | All Romance | Kobo Books
Genre: Paranormal Romance
Published by: Imajinn Books
Release Date: August 14, 2015
Length: 256 Pages

Hunt or be hunted . . . A centuries old obsession stalks a noble family fighting to hide their dark secret from an ever-changing world. Sink your teeth into Nancy Gideon's Touched by Midnight series.

A WICKED LEGACY

Terrified by her unusual strength and frightening urges, Nicole Radouix’s sheltered country life is shattered when she discovers her family’s secret— she’s the daughter of a mortal mother and vampire father. Stricken, she flees to the seductive lure of the city to discover the truth about who and what she is. But the turmoil of post-revolution Paris is no place for an innocent.

A WILD DESIRE 

Finding herself under the protection of noble ex-patriot Marchand La Valois, Nicole is pulled into deadly underworld struggles, both political and vampiric. As their passions ignite, Marchand soon realizes the lovely Nicole is more predator than prey and may be more of a threat than the unruly streets outside.

AN UNTHINKABLE DILEMMA 

Desperate to control her dark desires, Nicole accepts an offer of guidance from a hypnotic enemy, ensnaring both her and Marchand in a dangerous web of centuries’ old revenge. To escape their deadly nighttime games, Nicole must embrace her immortality. But will it cost her Marchand’s eternal love?

“A treasure trove of unearthly delights! Readers will want to induct Ms. Gideon into the vampire storyteller’s Hall of Fame!”— Romantic Times

“An extraordinary, moving and sensual tale of supernatural love powerful enough to defy death. Nancy Gideon is a bright artistic star of epic proportion in the supernatural galaxy. Five Star!”— Affaire de Coeur

A fast-paced, surprisingly believable look into a dark and mysterious world where only the greatest of loves can flourish!”— The Literary Times

Midnight Temptation - Excerpt

Midnight Surrender (Touched by Midnight - Book 3)

Midnight Surrender (Touched by Midnight - Book 3)

Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Kobo Books
Genre: Paranormal Romance
Published by: Imajinn Books
Release Date: October 1, 2015
Length: 266 Pages

Hunt or be hunted . . . A centuries-old obsession stalks a noble family fighting to hide their dark secret from an ever-changing world. Sink your teeth into Nancy Gideon's Touched by Midnight series.

A RECKLESS QUEST 

A savage killer stalks the dark streets of turn-of-the-century New York. To keep her father’s newspaper afloat, publisher Cassie Alexander chases the story. But what she catches is a madman’s attention.

A DARK DECEPTION

When her reclusive neighbor Louis Radcliffe rescues her from an attack, Cassie finds her vow of independence shaken by the strong attraction between them. It’s an attraction Louis denies, even as the invalid grandmother he cares for pushes to bring them together—for reasons that will break both their hearts.

AN INEVITABLE SACRIFICE

Determined to hide his secrets from her, Louis soon becomes the cornerstone of Cassie’s investigation. He can’t allow her stubbornness to place her life—and his immortal soul—in danger. But as much as he tries to keep her safe in his arms, it soon becomes evident that Cassie’s become a target. And Louis has no choice but to find out if their love is strong enough to withstand the truth . . .

“Gripping! Readers are pulled into a whirlwind while surrendering their souls!”— Gothic Journal

“Darkly sensual and suspenseful Midnight Surrender is nothing short of special! Lovers of vampire romances take notice!”— The Literary Times

“Gideon mesmerizes with this chilling tale. You’ll read it and read it again. Superb!”— Rendezvous

Midnight Surrender - Excerpt

THE GIVEAWAY

The Giveaway - Ends October 25th at 12:00 am

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Book Review: Kiss of Midnight: A Midnight Breed Novel (The Midnight BreedSeries Book 1) by Lara Adrian

This has crisp writing, compelling characters and a good plot with intrigue and danger. There is just a bit too much sex for my tastes.
Kiss of Midnight: A Midnight Breed Novel (The Midnight Breed Series Book 1)
by Lara Adrian

File Size: 969 KB
Print Length: 434 pages
Publisher: Dell (May 1, 2007)
Sold by: Random House LLC
ASIN: B000QCQ8XK
Genre:Paranormal Romance, Vampires
My Rating: 4.25 of 5.0

He watches her from across the crowded dance club, a sensual black-haired stranger who stirs Gabrielle Maxwell's deepest fantasies. But nothing about this night--or this man--is what it seems. For when Gabrielle witnesses a murder outside the club, reality shifts into something dark and deadly. In that shattering instant she is thrust into a realm she never knew existed--a realm where vampires stalk the shadows and a blood war is set to ignite.
Lucan Thorne despises the violence carried out by his lawless brethren. A vampire himself, Lucan is a Breed warrior, sworn to protect his kind--and the unwitting humans existing alongside them--from the mounting threat of the Rogues. Lucan cannot risk binding himself to a mortal woman, but when Gabrielle is targeted by his enemies, he has no choice but to bring her into the dark underworld he commands.
Here, in the arms of the Breed's formidable leader, Gabrielle will confront an extraordinary destiny of danger, seduction, and the darkest pleasures of all. . . .

Review:
Gabrielle is a photographer who is drawn to the lonely, abandoned and shadowy images of buildings and other aspects of life. One night she reluctantly goes to a club with friends where she shares glances across the room with a dark, brooding man. As she leaves the club she witnesses a savage murder. She manages to get a few pictures on her cell phone as she flees the alley. The police only mock her when they find no evidence of the gruesome scene. But someone heard her and believed her and now she is a target of those dark forces.

Lucas Thorne is a man of darkness and violence himself. But unlike the Rogue killers of his kind he is a Breed Warrior – one of a few specially chosen vampires who are committed to protecting their race by keeping the evil element under control and hidden from public exposure. A few of his closest brethren have Breed mates, the specially marked human females who become bonded with their vampire mate and produce children. Lucas has never been interested in finding a mate as his duties as a warrior protector has been his driving force for hundreds of years.

Lucas saw Gabrielle escape from the Rogues he was hunting. He needs the images on her phone and he suspects the Rogues will come after her too. He is drawn to her sensual beauty and then is alarmed to discover secrets even she is unaware of. Now there are multiple reasons to protect her and bring her to his compound even though he is facing a Rogue uprising and her nearness causes him confusion that brings him near the edge of his own control.

Gabrielle and Lucas are both conflicted characters and I found their struggle and story compelling. They sense they shouldn’t be drawn to each other but the pull is irresistible. I loved the background story with danger, action, tension and the intrigue of betrayal. There are some different vampire aspects that added interest. However, I was a little wary of this title as I suspected it might be pretty graphic sexually. My suspicions were right as it is full of sexual scenes that were just a bit too many and too erotic for my tastes. The writing is crisp and fast moving and if it wasn't so edgy I might have continued with the series. Those paranormal romance readers who enjoy fast-paced tension and a steamy, sexual ride should enjoy this book and the series.

This is from my free Kindle Library as a free book downloaded in 2009. It is part of my 2015 TBR Pile Challenge list and "K" for the Alphabet Soup Challenge.

I owe a copy of this ebook or a $5.00 GC to LILLY based on my Giveaway back in December 2014. Sorry it took so long for me to get around to reading this one! I had to laugh at myself when I went back and found the giveaway post. I don't think I even got beyond posting that first group of 23 books although I plenty more to go! I may host a few more "help me pick" giveaways over the next three months as I prepare title for next year's TBR pile list.

Sunday Post October 18, 2015/It's Monday! What are You Reading? Plus Mailbox Monday October 19, 2015

I am linking with Sunday Post at Caffeinated Book Reviewer.
It's Monday! What Are You Reading now at The Book Date.
Thank you to Sheila for the years that she handled this meme.
Thank you to Kathryn for taking up the baton.

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.

This was another busy work week. Our daughter-in-law and granddaughter visited Thursday and Friday nights on their way and return to see Thomas Train in Georgia. Sadly I picked up a cold bug that manifested Saturday afternoon and has had me sleeping a lot. I plan to go to bed as soon as this is posted. I'll have to visit tomorrow night. 

My reading and listening were good this week with five titles finished: four ebooks and one audible. I posted three reviews, one with giveaway, and the usual memes except Sharing Beyond Books which I hope to post Monday night..

I enjoyed visiting other blogs early in the week.
Thanks as always to all the nice people who visit me.

These were last week's posts:

• Sunday Post October 11, 2015/It's Monday! What are You Reading? Plus Mailbox Monday October 12, 2015.

• Book Review: Children of the Comet by Donald Moffitt; Sci Fi, Fantasy; my rating 4.25.

• World's Best Story 2015 Contest for Writers [Entry due by November 8!]

• Audible Review: Annihilation: Love Conquers All by Saxon Andrew; Sci Fi, my rating 4.25.

• Friday Pick Giveaway October 16, 2015. Open Worldwide. Ends 10/22/2015.

• Sunday Words of Encouragement October 18, 2015.

• Book Review and Print Giveaway: Jennifer: An O"Malley Love Story by Dee Henderson; Inspirational Romance; my rating 4.25. Ends 10/24/2015.

Finished Reading:
Click on book title for full description.

1. eBook/Kindle

Kiss of Midnight: A Midnight Breed Novel (The Midnight BreedSeries Book 1)
by Lara Adrian
This was a good story though very sexual.
Click on book title for full description.

2. eBook/Kindle

On the Run (The Elijah Project)
by Bill Myers (Author), James Riordan (Contributor)
This would be good for its younger audience.
Click on book title for full description.

3. eBook/Kindle

Love in the Details: A November Wedding Story
(A Year of Weddings Novella)
by Becky Wade
This was lovely.
Click on book title for full description.

4. Audible/MP3

Citizens of London: The Americans Who Stood with Britain in Its Darkest, Finest Hour
Written by: Lynne Olson
Narrated by: Arthur Morey
This was very enlightening - good history!
Click on book title for full description.

5. eBook/Kindle

Midnight Kiss: Touched by Midnight, Book
by Nancy Gideon
I enjoyed this vampiric experience.
I received this for Tour Blitz through Novel Book Tours.
My review will post on October 22, 2015.
“Dark and compelling, Gideon's novel will appeal to those who enjoy the vampire novels of Anne Rice.” —Library Journal
“A colorful and hauntingly beautiful tale of otherworldly love . . . destined to become a classic!”—Affaire de Coeur
“Incredible, spellbinding reading!” —Rendezvous
Hunt or be hunted . . . A centuries old obsession stalks a noble family fighting to hide their dark secret from an ever-changing world. Sink your teeth into Nancy Gideon's Touched by Midnight series.
A DARK CURSE
Miss Arabella Howland is content to forgo the London marriage mill to assist her father in his research, especially when it comes to his intriguing patient, Louis Radman. But it’s not long before Bella’s curiosity alerts her to the danger of her father’s work . . . and to the fact that Louis is not who or what he seems.
A BRIGHT PROMISE
After centuries struggling with his vile existence, Louis Radman will soon be free of his affliction, thanks to his very capable physician. Unfortunately, his heart is less secure around the man’s tempting daughter. His yearning to walk in the light once more is complicated by his desire for the delightful Bella, who is as intelligent as she is fearless. But if history has taught him anything, it’s not to tempt fate.
AN UNFORGIVING PAST
Still, happiness has a price and Louis is soon reminded that mortality comes with unfortunate limitations. To protect his new bride, he must face the demons from his past who wish to pull him back into their vampiric fold.
Yet, if he’s forced to return to his midnight world, will he lose his beloved Bella forever?
Nancy Gideon is the award-winning author of over 55 novels ranging from historical and contemporary suspense to paranormal, including her “Touched by Midnight” vampire romance series, with a couple of horror screenplays thrown into the mix. When not at the keyboard or working full time as a legal assistant, she can be found feeding her addictions for Netflix and all things fur, feather and fin in Southwestern Michigan. For more on Nancy visit http://nancygideon.com and http://nancygideon.blogspot.com

Currently reading:
1. Audible/MP3

The Clay Lion
Written by: Amalie Jahn
Narrated by: Lorelei King
I have started this and it is very engaging.
I received this audio from the publisher through Audiobook Jukebox.
Publisher's Summary
Winner of the YA category in the 2015 Kindle Book Awards
What if you could go back in time to save the person you love the most? The rules are simple. If you want to travel back in time, you need to be at least 18 years old. You can travel only within your own lifespan for a maximum of six months. And, above all else, you must never, ever change the past. But that's exactly what Brooke Wallace plans to do.
As Brooke faces existence without her beloved brother, his life cut short by a rare disease, she can think of only one solution - travel back in time to prevent his death. Along the way she discovers the truth about loss, second chances, and the power to shape our own destinies.
©2013 Amalie Jahn (P)2015 Creative Content Ltd

2. eBook/Kindle

Awaken His Eyes: The Awakened Book One
by Jason Tesar
This is part of my TBR Challenge - 
a free Kindle pick from 2011.
Mankind's greatest hero will be awakened!
Book 1 of 9 in the bestselling Awakened series
The History: Thousands of years ago, a renegade faction of angels abandoned the spiritual realm and began their inhabitation of earth. Worshiped as gods for their wisdom and power, they corrupted our realm and altered the course of human civilization. Amidst the chaos of a dying world, a prophet foretold the awakening of a human who would bring an end to this evil. But the cataclysmic destruction of our planet forced a rebirth of humanity. The prophecy faded from the memory of our kind and went unfulfilled—until now!

The Awakened: The physical dimension is fractured. What remain are numerous worlds moving simultaneously through time, sharing a common history, connected by a guarded portal.

On a parallel Earth, in the city of Bastul, Colonel Adair Lorus disappears while investigating the death of an informant, triggering a series of events which will tear his family apart and set in motion the resolution of an ancient conflict. His son, Kael, sentenced to death after rising up against the cruel leadership of his new stepfather, is rescued from prison and trained in the arts of war by a mystical order of clerics. Excelling in every aspect of his training, Kael inwardly struggles to give himself fully to the methods of his new family, or the god they worship. Maeryn, bitter over the disappearance of her husband and supposed execution of her son, fears for her life at the hands of her newly-appointed spouse. Finding comfort and purpose in her unborn child, she determines to undermine his authority by reaching out to an underground social movement known as the Resistance. After being forced from his home, Kael’s former mentor, Saba, uncovers a clue to Adair’s disappearance. Sensing a connection to his own forgotten past, Saba begins an investigation thatleads to the discovery of a secret military organization operating within the Orudan Empire.

In Book One of his Amazon bestselling debut series, Jason Tesar launches an epic saga that journeys from earth’s mythological past to its post-apocalyptic future, blending the genres of fantasy, science fiction, action adventure, and military thriller.

3. Audio/MP3

Clear by Fire: A Search and Destroy Thriller
Written by: Joshua Hood
Narrated by: John Pruden
I will start this as my next audio.
I received this audio from the publisher through Audiobook Jukebox.
Publisher's Summary
Inspired by the experiences of a decorated combat veteran and former member of the 82nd Airborne Division, Clear by Fire is a blistering new military thriller about an American hero who, in order to clear his name, must take down a highly classified band of soldiers that has gone murderously rogue.
Mason Kane was a loyal American soldier and a proud member of the elite, off-the-books Anvil Program - a group of black ops soldiers who wage war from the shadows. But all that changed when his commander, as a part of a twisted scheme to force America's continued involvement in the Middle East, ordered an innocent Afghan family murdered.
Refusing the order, Mason finds himself on the run, hunted by his former comrades and labeled a terrorist by the country he served faithfully. Relying only on his survival skills and the help of female Special Operations operative Renee Hart, Kane must embark on his gravest mission yet: unraveling the conspiracy that reaches all way to the president's inner circle and stopping the world's most dangerous soldiers from completing their treacherous plan.
Set in the shadows of the war on terror, this realistic, action-packed adventure puts a twist on the traditional military thriller and starts a brand-new series that fans of Brad Thor and Brad Taylor will love.
©2015 Joshua Hood (P)2015 Blackstone Audio, Inc.

October 1, 2015- I am still up to date on Bible reading and greatly enjoying the readings-- It seems my eyes are open to more details and meaning. I am reading The One Year Bible again along with my husband and others from our church. I am also listening to the companion commentary online.

I posted three reviews last week. Now I have five new from this week.
I finished one book from NetGalley. I didn't add any new books (although I was looking) so my waiting NetGalley shelf is now five.
I am pulling in more books off my Kindle and Audible shelves for my TBR Challenge - I just have to read them and not postpone them. :-) 

Welcome to Mailbox Monday.

Mailbox Monday is a gathering place for readers to share the books that came into their house last week and explore great book blogs.  This Meme started with Marcia at A Girl and Her Books (fka The Printed Page) and after a tour of hosts has returned to its permanent home at Mailbox Monday. Thanks to the ladies sharing hosting duties: Leslie of Under My Apple Tree, Serena of Savvy Verse & Wit and Vicki of I'd Rather Be at the Beach. Warning: Mailbox Monday can lead to envy, toppling TBR piles and humongous wish lists.

I received one ebook for tour review and two audio books. And of course I added more free kindle titles to my library.

(I scanned NetGalley and some of my review requests and nothing is really jumping out at me although I am going to request some new Audio books through Audiobook Jukebox. Other than that I think it is time to work on the TBR piles!)

Are your mailbox and TBR piles blooming?

Review Titles

Tour Blitz for Novel Book Tours
eBook review 10/22

Midnight Kiss: Touched by Midnight, Book
by Nancy Gideon
See finished reading above for full description.



I received this audio from the publisher through Audiobook Jukebox.

The Clay Lion
Written by: Amalie Jahn
Narrated by: Lorelei King
See current reading above for full description.

Clear by Fire: A Search and Destroy Thriller
Written by: Joshua Hood
Narrated by: John Pruden

See current reading above for full description.

Won

NONE

Purchased

NONE

Free

Over the past week I only added 46 free Kindle titles to my library. Titles found linked through Bookbub, Bookfun, Ereader News Today, Free Par-tay, Ignite Your Book, Inspired Reads, Pixel of Ink or Kindle ebooks.

Book Review and Print Giveaway: Jennifer by Dee Henderson

This is a lovely, Christian romance.

Jennifer: An O'Malley Love Story, O'Malley Series #1
By Dee Henderson

Hardcover: 160 pages
Publisher: Bethany House Publishers; 4.1.2013 edition
(May 1, 2013)
ISBN-10: 0764211129
ISBN-13: 978-0764211126
Genre: Christian Romance
My Rating: 4.25 of 5.0

Product Description
It's a summer of change for Jennifer O'Malley.
The busy physician has a pediatrics practice in Dallas, Texas, and meeting and falling in love with surgeon Tom Peterson is adding a rich layer to her life. She's sorting out how to introduce Tom to her family she's the youngest of seven and thinking about marriage.
She's falling in love with Jesus too, and knows God is good. But that faith is about to be tested, and in a way she didn't expect. The results will soon transform her entire family.

Review:
Jennifer was an orphan who was ‘adopted’ into the O’Malley group of young boys and girls during foster care years. Although each child has found their own career path, they are still close and protective of each other. Jennifer is a pediatrician who has a special heart for all patients, but especially her young cancer patients. She must cope with the highs and lows, remissions and losses that go along with that deadly disease.

Tom is a busy surgeon who hasn’t found the right woman to interest him in settling down and starting his own family. He is intrigued by Jennifer’s energy and giving spirit when he meets her. They begin to share time around their hospital duties and slowly spending time together after work. Then he invites her to church and quietly shares his faith with her without being pushy but showing the importance it has in his own life.

When Jennifer unexpectedly faces a crisis, the fear and anger she experiences are understandable. She has to decide if she will face the issue alone or allow Tom, and maybe even God, to help her.

I read the O’Malley series a number of years ago and really enjoyed them. Ms. Henderson does a good job of providing smooth, easy writing, personable characters and a story that is realistic. Some of the stories have suspense features but they all have some romantic tension and conflict. I say “romantic” tension because these are clean stories with at least one character grounded with Biblical foundations and the other drawn in.

I was glad to see this novella available at a low price to get for my church Ladies’ Book Club. It is consistent with the easy, personable style although this one is sweet romance with emotional conflict and no suspense or danger other than medical issues dealing with cancer. All of our ladies enjoyed the book and are interested in ready more of the series. Although this novella was actually written last, it fits at the beginning of the series and Jennifer and Tom’s story continues in The Negotiator (O'Malley Book 1).

I picked this up on sale for my ladies' book club and we discussed it October 3, 2015.

ONE (gently read) hard cover PRINT COPY GIVEAWAY

US Only

ENTRY FORM HERE

(Don't forget to fill in the form for entry!

I have noticed a few commenters who forgot to enter through the Form.)

For 3 Extra Bonus entries
(a) comment on the review, OR

(b) Visit the AUTHOR'S WEBSITE and tell me something you learned or like there.

* This contest is open to US only for Print Copy.
* This contest will close 5 PM (Central) October 31, 2015.
WINNER WILL BE ANNOUNCED after October 31, 2015.
Winners will have 72 hours to respond on the winners form linked in the announcement or by email.

Sunday Words of Encouragement October 18, 2015

I did housework and RV preparation Saturday morning, then I went to the office. I came home at 5pm with chills and fever. After eating dinner I crawled into bed so I got nothing posted yesterday and missed church this morning. :-(  My husband meant well and tried to keep some notes from Sunday School and service. Mostly they are scripture references without much more so I may have to seek notes from the sources.

I have selected this song for today as I wish to acknowledge my worship.

Verses for Today:
John 4: 23-24 NIV
23 “…Yet a time is coming and has now come when the true worshipers will worship the Father in the Spirit and in truth, for they are the kind of worshipers the Father seeks.
24 God is spirit, and his worshipers must worship in the Spirit and in truth."


Dear Father - I was not able to go to the church this morning to worship. But still, I worship you in my heart and spirit - with all I am. Thank you that I have freedom, and will, to do so.

Martha's Bookshelf***Friday Pick Giveaway October 16, 2015

Happy Friday.
My week has been busy - but productive. We had great visit Thursday night with a little family visit. Loud with four children but they have fun together. Now it is peaceful.

TO ENTER FRIDAY PICK:

US Entrants: Leave a comment and tell me WHICH BOOK you would like to get from the Friday Pick lists.
INTERNATIONAL: Leave a comment indicating "Gift Card" (see further comments near the end of the post.)

CUT OFF TIME IS THURSDAY NIGHTS AT 9:00 PM CENTRAL so I do not have to stay up to 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 9 Pick. There were THREE automatic wins this week. Automatic wins are those who requested the book four times without other people asking for that book during those weeks. There was one title blocked again this week but it was won through the block.
AUTO: Natasha gets Silent Night, Haunted Night
Becky gets Grave Sins and
Di gets Shannon Drake - When Darkness Falls
  (Di- you said you had the other Drake title; please let me know on the spreadsheet if you want me to send just one or both books. 

CONGRATULATIONS
to Random.org picked Winners from October 9 Pick:
Sue gets Charlaine Harris Pair - won through the block.

Marjorie 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.}

Isn't this a lovely fall book image!

Image found at Storeetllr's Library Thing.

New Book Group #60 September 18, 2015
A set of "haunting" tales and a few mysteries for October!

PAIRS:
Shannon Drake – When Darkness Falls (Alliance Vampires #2)  and Realm of Shadows (Alliance Vampires#4) 
Charlaine Harris – Club Dead and Grave Sight
SINGLES:
A Darker Dream (Love Spell romance) by Amanda Ashley
Bloody Good by Georgia Evans
Cat of Nine Tales by Deborah Macgillivray
Fated (Dark Protectors Book 1) by Rebecca Zanetti
Grave Sins by Jenna Maclaine
Primitive by Mark Nykanen (ARC copy)
The Accidental Human (Accidentally Paranormal Novel Book 3) by Dakota Cassidy
The Demon in Me by Michelle Rowen
The Shadowing by Joan Overfield
The Renegade Hunter by Lynsay Sands
Silent Night, Haunted Night (A Nicki Styx Mystery) by Terri Garey
Tombs of Endearment (Pepper Martin Mysteries, No. 3) by Casey Daniels
Trilogy Of Mysteries Audio Book Shadow Prey, There Was A Little Girl, Smokescreen Audio Cassettes (NOT CDs)


New Book Group #59 July 31, 2015
A few more summer titles, historicals and mysteries!

ANTHOLOGIES:
Broken Vows, Mended Hearts by Lynn Stone, Gail Ranstrom and Anne O'Brien
3,2,1 Married! by Sharon Sala, Marie Ferrarella and Beverly Barton
SINGLES:
Only by Your Touch by Catherine Anderson
Cruise to a Wedding by Betty Neels
Little Girl Lost by Shirlee McCoy
Beloved Enemy by Terri Reed
You Don't Know Jack by Erin McCarthy

New Book Group #58 June 26, 2015
-- A few summer titles, a few mysteries, a few historicals...

SINGLES:
Hot Pursuit - Karen Rose, Annie Solomon and Carla Cassidy
Love Me Tomorrow by Rosanne Bittner (spine creasing)
Sevant, The Awakening by L.L. Foster

New Book Group #57 May 1, 2015
(I'll finish the list with authors on Saturday 5/2/15)

SINGLES:
A Little Bit Wild by Victoria Dahl
The Ruthless Greek's Virgin Princess by Trish Morey
Rally Fever by Crea Jones

New Book Group #56 March 20, 2015
(I'll try to get the rest linked another day.)

SINGLES:
The Sweetheart Dance by Patti Ann Colt
Raintree Haunted by Linda Winstead Jones (spine creases)

New Book Group #55 February 5, 2015
(I'll try to get the rest linked another day.)

SINGLES:
If I Had You by Deborah Bedford
The Man Who Ate the 747 by Ben Sherwood

New Book Group #54 December 26, 2014

SINGLES:
Ender’s Shadow by Orson Scott Card - Tape Cassettes


BOX 4 2015 (reboxed from Boxes 47-53)

The Secret Life of Bees by Sue Monk Kidd
The Hidden Truth of Cytech's Randall Forty byVickie Kennedy
First to Fight Anthology
Jezebel by Katherine Sutcliff
The Commander by Kate Bridges
The Cinderella Plan by Margaret Daley
The Mr. & Mrs. Happy Handbook by Steve Doocy
A Garden of Friends by Penny Pierce Rose
Richard Paul Evans PAIR: The Looking Glass and The Carousel
Undateable by Ellen Rakieten & Anne Coyle
Sleeping with Ward Cleaver by Jenny Gardiner


BOX 3 2015 (reboxed from Boxes 39- 47)

Shetland Summer by Janet Lynnford
Breakfast in Bed by Sandra Brown - Audio Cassette Tapes (link is for mass media version)
Cattle Rancher, Secret Son by Margaret Way
Whisper on the Wind by Joan Smith
Remember Me by Mary Higgins Clark
A Lady of Consequence by Mary Nichols
Sweet Talking Man by Betina Krain


BOX 2 2015 (reboxed from Boxes 24- 38)

Thinner by Stephen King
Foundation (Foundation Novels) by Isaac Asimov
Magic: The Gathering Distant Planes, An Anthology
The Willful Widow by Valerie King (spine wear)
Dancing on Snowflakes by Jane Bonander
An Honorable Man by Rosemary Rogers (spine creases)
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
Tara Taylor Quinn: Father: Unknown and McGillus v.Wright
The Trailsman: Texas Lead Slingers by Jon Sharpe
Anthology: Something Borrowed, Something Blue - this book has spine creases and minor water damage...I thought I had read it and liked it but now I realize it was another anthology I read with Elaine Barbier.


BOX #1 2015 (reboxed from Boxes 1- 23)

Circle of Stars by Anna Lee Waldo
Alien Chronicles - The Crimson Claw by Deborah Chester
Ghost Writer (Shivers #3) by M.D. Spenser
Death Angel by Linda Howard

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 five+ years I have posted 54 groups of 16 (864) books to find new homes! (as of February 6, 2015).

I am happy to say that so far about 878+ books have found new homes! YAY. I have to update my print out to check the exact number sent out - a few were never claimed. I periodically update the lists - deleting those won. You can still go to the Friday Pick list link to see older posts and the older lists book pictures if you want!

Note rules here regarding international entries.

Because postage to overseas can be prohibitive I am willing to give a $5.00 book certificate to international winners - Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Borders, ARe, TWRP, ClassAct Books, eTreasures, Desert Breeze, etc....you tell me where and I'll set it up. So for my overseas visitors your comment may indicate a smaller book and I'll check postage or note your choice of gift card.

I learned that The Book Depository does not ship to everywhere. The postage for some of the books to far away places runs between $7.00 and $10.00 and up. Since I would award $5.00 for The Book Depository to an international winner, as an alternative you may choose a smaller book and we will hope the postage will not exceed $6.00. If the postage is more, or if you want to pick a larger book and you are willing to pay any extra postage beyond the $6.00 I will work with you on that. This may not make a difference to many but if it helps one or two of you to give one of my books a home that will make me happy too. :o)

Repeating this helpful blog tip: You can right click on a link and you will be given the choice to open the link in a new window or tab so you do not navigate away from the screen you are on!! I use this all the time!

Audible Review: Annihilation: Love Conquers All by Saxon Andrew

This is entertaining and reminiscent of comic book superheros v alien villains.
Annihilation: Love Conquers All
Written by: Saxon Andrew
Narrated by: Liam Owen

Length: 9 hrs and 10 mins
Series: Annihilation (Andrew), Book 1
Unabridged Audiobook
Release Date:03-26-14
Publisher: Saxon Andrew Publishing LLC
Genre: Sci Fi
My Rating: 4.25 of 5.0

Publisher's Summary
Annihilation: Love Conquers All offers humor and a tale of enduring love against the backdrop of galactic war on a grand scale.
Tag, an exceptional young human living in Central City on the planet Earth, tries to keep his powerful, one-of-a-kind skills undetected by leading an ordinary life and staying under the radar. But one day, on the way home from school, Tag's compassion leads him to make a decision that alters the course of his life - and history.
The Alliance of Worlds, which includes Earth as a ruled non-member, has decided that humans are to be annihilated as an example to anyone who discovers an ancient alien technology, even though there is no proof against them. The Alliance thinks fifty thousand warships can do the job. Unfortunately, the humans are not cooperating with their plan and one young human who has fallen in love will change everything...
In this epic story, author Saxon Andrew takes us into the future and the lives of human and nonhuman characters alike. Along with a hearty dose of battles and spaceships, this is a story that offers humor and a tale of enduring love against the backdrop of galactic war on a grand scale.
©March 2011 Saxon Andrew (P)2014 Saxon Andrew Publishing LLC.

Review:
Tag lives in Central City on planet Earth which is a planet that does not have member status but is under the control of The Alliance of Worlds. Tag’s parents realized that he had special skills and warned him not to use them in school or public where others might see him. The human society determines each persons job and right to marry so it is important to work within the system. Tag’s skills are exposed when he first tries to help a friend at school and then must escape a gang attack on the way home. Tag fears he will be punished so he goes into hiding. Three years later Tag’s hideaway is discovered and he must run again. This time he steals a private space ship in hopes of finding refuge far away.

Unfortunately a massive hunt brings Tag down on the moon where he stumbles into forbidden ancient alien technology. The Alliance of Worlds has ruled that any people who discover the forbidden technology must be annihilated to prevent them from possible use or testing or advancement from the technology. Although they can’t be certain that the warning signal came from Earth they have decided they will still destroy the planet as an example.

A near-by Alliance member, the Cainth Empire, are thrilled to be called on to take on the task of supposedly preparing Earth for detainment while they really stall for enough warships to attack the planet. A Cainth general has a personal vendetta against Earth and is looking for any opportunity to attack.

The Cainth swoop in on an Earth Colony and the results of occupation are not pretty. The Cainth believe they can easily overcome the Earth’s puny ships. But Earth has more resources, including Tag’s special powers and a surprisingly powerful ‘friend’, than anyone knows. And the humans are not going to stand by quietly while their world is attacked.

I have to admit I changed my opinion on this story several times. The beginning held some interest as I was curious to see what would happen to Tag. Then I decided the story had shifted into ‘superhero/villain’ comic book mode and I wasn’t sure if I liked that. Yet as I continued to listen I was drawn in by the action and the likeable characters. The romance is sweet but not really a big element. Yes – there is some elementary comic book level writing and plot line but, Hey, it makes for fun entertainment.

I am on the fence as to whether I will pick up the second book in the series. There are just so many books to try. I do recommend this for readers who enjoy superhero, good v evil stories.

Audio Notes: Liam Owen conveys a light voice tone which fits with the younger characters. His voice of the opposing alien characters is rough and a 'comical' villain style, all of which fits the story. The narration makes this more entertaining.

I pulled this from my Audible Library from August 2014. It qualifies for my Audio Challenge.

World's Best Story 2015 Contest for Writers [Entry due by November 8!]

2015
CONTEST!
Writers submit your Story
Enter for a chance to join
the House of transmedia stories company

What is World's Best Story?

"This is not just a literary contest, we're looking for stories that will be consumed in multiple media formats – from books to the big screen and beyond," says Vincent Salera, founder of World's Best Story. "Our goal is to revolutionize the traditional literary contest and identify a story with blockbuster appeal. We're looking for a story that audiences will love and help authors turn that story into trans-media franchises, which is why we're empowering readers to judge the contest."


How does it work?

Readers will vote for stories and awarded judges will declare the final Top 10 winners.

2015 Judges: Warren Adler, Victor Malarek, Tamarra Kennelly, Brooke Burgess, Samreen Ashan, Alistair Cross, Rhonda Hayter


Timeline:

Entry Period Closes/Public Voting ends. (November 8)

Top 10 Winners Announced! (November 8)

Professional Review/Voting (November 8 - December 8)

Winner and Top 10 Ranking Announced (December 8)


What are the prizes?

The top 3 winners will receive a full publishing package by FriesenPress, trademark protection in the U.S. and Canada by IP agency Benoit & Cote, a virtual book tour by Laura Fabiani of iRead Book Tours as well as consulting/marketing services with book expert Anne Chaconas of BadAss Marketing. Busbud and YoDough will be providing lots of goodies for both writers and readers.

How do I submit my story?

To learn more about World's Best Story, including how to enter, please visit World's Best Story.

World’s Best Story : info@worldsbeststory.com

See what's buzzing at World's Best Story:

How to Get Readers Buzzing About Your Book: Secrets from the World of Book Blogging

Viral campaign with famous characters:

What if Oscar Wilde wrote Sex and the City? (series of posts)

What if Lady Gaga wrote Gone With the Wind? (series of posts)

The Current Top 10 Most Voted Stories

Connect with World's Best Story:

Facebook  ~  Twitter  ~  Pinterest

Enter your story today!

Book Review: Children of the Comet by Donald Moffitt

This is an engaging fantasy dealing with future humans and primitive societies. 

Children of the Comet

by Donald Moffitt

• File Size: 930 KB
• Print Length: 332 pages
• Publisher: Open Road Media Sci-Fi & Fantasy (October 13, 2015)
• Publication Date: October 13, 2015
• ASIN: B00VL0WCQ8
• Genre: Fantasy, Sci Fi
• My Rating: 4.25 of 5.0

In the far future, on top of a gigantic tree rooted in the ice ball of a comet, a young man’s journey leads to unexpected encounters

In this brand-new cosmic adventure by the author of The Genesis Quest and The Jupiter Theft, Torris, son of the Facemaker, knows only his small community at the base of the great Tree on a comet with almost no gravity or atmosphere. Torris’s daily struggle for survival includes harvesting frozen air to keep breathing, dodging flutterbeasts, and hunting meatbeasts for food. When it comes time to make his vision quest to the top of the Tree, Torris is completely unprepared for what he finds: first, a thieving and hostile fellow quester; then, Ning, a female hunter from a neighboring tree-bearing comet, who has catapulted across empty space in search of food to save her family; and ultimately, alien visitors in a massive starship that has spent billions of years crossing the galaxy.

Shocked at the cultural differences between his home and Ning’s and stunned by the changes precipitated by the arrival of the spaceship, Torris must learn quickly, adapt even faster, and face an uncertain and rapidly changing future unlike anything he has ever imagined.

Review:
Torris is a tall, thin and intelligent young man who lives on a tree comet. He has grown up with the duties and traditions of his tribe. He is now of age, with other young men in his tribe, to go on his vision quest to the top of the Tree. They must each climb alone and not help or receive help. Torris starts out well with his air suit, his warming bug, and bows and arrows to help catch food and fight of predators of the Tree which he expected. He didn’t expect to have another young climber scavenge and scatter his pack. Nor did he expect to run into a female from the nearest tree that would soon be close enough for barbaric bride raids from one tree to the other.

The female hunter, Ning, and Torris should kill each other but that is not what happens. They form a shaky alliance during which they learn about each other’s tribes. Torris is impressed with Ning’s intelligence and skills. Ning is impressed by Torris’ kindness and determination.

Meanwhile, far away, there are people from earth who have developed colonies on distant planets. Two groups do not want to stay with the colony. One of the older generations, led by Captain Joorn, wants to return to Earth to see if the Sun has burned up the home planet. Another group, led by Professor Karn and a group of scientists wants to travel beyond. The two make an agreement that they will take the ship and a habitat and return. Once the Earth bound group are dropped off back in Earth’s galaxy, the professor’s group will move on. During the years of travel not everyone agrees to honor the agreement and struggles arise.

The ship finally arrives at the Milky Way Galaxy to discover primitive communities have found a foot hold in comet trees within the Oort Clouds. The ship inhabitants are able to see the tree people and determine that they must step in.

The characters are unique, including a dolphin with its own contraption that allows movement and communication. Torris and Ning are good characters and they make friends with Joorn's grandson and granddaughter.The theories of science, travel, colonization and society growth are interesting and fit the fantasy. The tree world is well developed and the ship antagonisms are consistent with human behavior.

Although I was a bit confused at the beginning of the story I soon became wrapped in the twin story threads as they shifted in chapters toward a cosmic meeting. There were some alarmingly dumb actions - not too surprising from teens trying to find themselves. The writing is easy and smooth, except perhaps for some quantum discussions that were beyond me. I focused more on the people and less on the scientific theories and found this to be an engaging fantasy. I would likely read more by Mr. Moffitt.

This releases October 13, 2015. I received this through NetGalley for an honest review. It qualifies for my NetGalley Challenge.