Audible Book Review: Daemon by Daniel Suarez

This is a very intense AI suspense/mystery - well done!
Daemon
Written by: Daniel Suarez
Narrated by: Jeff Gurner

Length: 15 hrs and 57 mins
Series: Daemon, Book 1
Unabridged Audiobook
Release Date:01-08-09
Publisher: Penguin Audio
Genre: Sci Fi, Techno-Thriller
My Rating: 4.5 of 5.0

Publisher's Summary
Technology controls almost everything in our modern-day world, from remote entry on our cars to access to our homes, from the flight controls of our airplanes to the movements of the entire world economy. Thousands of autonomous computer programs, or daemons, make our networked world possible, running constantly in the background of our lives, trafficking e-mail, transferring money, and monitoring power grids. For the most part, daemons are benign, but the same can't always be said for the people who design them.
Matthew Sobol was a legendary computer game designer - the architect behind half-a-dozen popular online games. His premature death depressed both gamers and his company's stock price. But Sobol's fans aren't the only ones to note his passing. When his obituary is posted online, a previously dormant daemon activates, initiating a chain of events intended to unravel the fabric of our hyper-efficient, interconnected world. With Sobol's secrets buried along with him, and as new layers of his daemon are unleashed at every turn, it's up to an unlikely alliance to decipher his intricate plans and wrest the world from the grasp of a nameless, faceless enemy - or learn to live in a society in which we are no longer in control. . . .
Computer technology expert Daniel Suarez blends haunting high-tech realism with gripping suspense in an authentic, complex thriller in the tradition of Michael Crichton, Neal Stephenson, and William Gibson.
©2009 Daniel Suarez; (P)2009 Penguin Audio

Review:
Matthew Sobol, a legendary computer game designer has died of cancer. Physically he is gone, but he is still around – in his computer programs – especially one special program he calls Daemon. The computer entity contacts Detective Pete Sebeck directly leading him to further victims. Although the FBI takes over the cases they don’t agree with Pete who is the only investigator inclined to believe that the killer is Sobol through his computer program, Daemon.


This is a wonderful mystery --- not fully solved and not really a happy ending. There is plenty of action from different views. The early part of the book follows the investigations with Pete until the computer program manipulates him into major trouble. The story also picks up other characters who are contacted and engaged by - to them - an unknown entity. Some accept the new employer willingly but others are strong-armed with no choice. The story is a bit confusing as not all povs are fully clarified. This might require a re-listen… if it was a movie, it would be one to watch more than once to pick up on the threads.

Although I work well with computers, I do not have any real technical training and I am not a gamer. I may not have fully grasped all the computer technicalities but I was able to follow the gist. The control that Daemon exercises through the internet on various companies and agencies is truly scary. The goal is initiate a social agenda through an intricate design created, and left behind, by Sobol. I enjoyed the writing and found the whole idea fascinating. I enjoyed the mystery elements too. I just realized there is a sequel and I will be adding that to my Audible library. I recommend this book to sci fi buffs who enjoy mystery and AI intrigue.

Audio Notes: Jeff Gurner is the primary narrator and he does an excellent job. There is also wonderful full performance with female voices and sound effects that enrich the listen. The audio is really wonderful and I recommend it for those who love a good audio.

This AI suspense/mystery was from my own Audible shelf from 2012. This qualifies for TBR, Audio Challenge and "D" in Alphabet Soup Challenge.

Book Review: The Bluebonnet Betrayal, A Potting Shed Mystery by Marty Wingate

This is an easy, delightful cozy mystery with gardening interests and lovely warmth – other than the death of course.

The Bluebonnet Betrayal, A Potting Shed Mystery
by Marty Wingate

File Size: 2129 KB
Print Length: 294 pages
Publisher: Alibi (August 2, 2016)
ASIN: B017QLSIU4
Genre: Cozy Mystery
My Rating: 4.25 of 5.0

Bestselling author Marty Wingate “plants clever clues with a dash of romantic spice,” raves Mary Daheim. Now Wingate’s inimitable gardening heroine, Pru Parke, is importing a precious bloom from Texas—and she won’t let a vicious murder stop her.
Pru’s life in England is coming full circle. A Texas transplant, she’s married to the love of her life, thriving in the plum gardening position she shares with her long-lost brother, and prepping a Chelsea Flower Show exhibit featuring the beloved bluebonnets of the Texas hill country. Technically, Twyla Woodford, the president of a gardening club in the Lone Star State, is in charge of the London event, but Pru seems to be the one getting her hands dirty. When they finally do meet, Pru senses a kindred spirit—until Twyla turns up dead.
Although Twyla’s body was half buried under a wall in their display, Pru remains determined to mount a spectacular show. Twyla would have insisted. So Pru recruits her husband, former Detective Chief Inspector Christopher Pearse, to go undercover and do a bit of unofficial digging into Twyla’s final hours. If Pru has anything

Review:
Pru Parke is a ‘transplanted’ Texan living and gardening in England where she now lives with her new husband. Pru and her newly found brother are working to restore the gardens on a country estate. Pru has been asked by a Texan gardening ‘friend’, Twyla Woodford, to help set up a Texas exhibit for the prestigious Chelsea Flower Show in London.

Pru arrives at the exhibit site and begins to meet the various crew: an aloof ‘designer’, Roddy; a competent, if angry, crew boss, Chiv, and his jealous partner, Iris; a mostly absent, wealthy sponsor, Damien; and a young, enthusiastic researcher, Forde, who is convinced the sponsor will buy his special biofuel product. Pru picks up on some tension among these crew members even before she meets the Texas garden society ladies. Pru picks up five of the Texas ladies at the airport only to learn that their fearless leader, Twyla, has been delayed.

Twyla finally arrives and she and Pru hit it off right away. Twyla has some concerns that she has to resolve although she doesn’t fully explain the problems to Pru. This gives Pru fuel for the mystery when Twyla is discovered murdered the next morning. The Chief Inspector immediately warns Pru to keep her nose out of the investigation and to keep her husband, Chris, the former chief inspector who retired and now serves as consultant, out of the way too.

This of course won’t work for Pru who is determined to find Twyla’s killer while she also continues preparing for the exhibit. Pru drags Chris onto the crew to investigate under cover. As they make their inquiries, Pru learns that all four men, and several of the ladies, had relationships with Twyla that might provide a motive for the killing. Now they just have to narrow the field of suspects without getting in the line of fire.

Although there initially seemed to be quite a lot of characters and suspects, Ms. Wingate does a wonderful job of tying all the details together while hiding the true killer until an exciting confrontation at the end. The story brims with gardening background that I found interesting and I loved the gentle humor. Each chapter begins with a tidbit from the fictional ARGS (Austin Rock Garden Society) news or minutes. There is a sweet romantic vibe between Pru and Chris that adds to the story.

There is a rich warmth and easy style (yes, cozy) to the writing which makes this enjoyable entertainment. This is the second Potting Shed Mystery that I have read by Ms. Wingate and I highly recommend this author and series to readers who like cozy mysteries.

I received this title through NetGalley for an honest review. It qualifies for my NetGalley Challenge.

MBS July 2016 Reading Wrap-Up

Martha's Bookshelf July 2016

My goals are repeated below the book list - 15 per month total. I was ahead by two in January but down by five in February; up one in March; down one in April. May I was up nine by including children's books. June I was down two. JULY I am down three so that puts me up one for the year to the end of July.  I still hope to read more TBRs but right now I am running behind on those.

Total read = 12
Audio/Audible = 4
eBook = 8 (two tour reviews; 2 author request, 1 kindle TBR)
NetGalley = 3
Print = 0

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
TBR =  4 (obtained prior to 2016); year to date = 36
New to Me Authors = 4; year to date = 61
Series Continued = 5; year to date = 21

There were no 5.0 rated books in July and two rated 4.5.

Code for the list is:
A = Audio/Audible     ABJ = Audiobook Jukebox    ABB = Audiobook Blast
E or ETour = eBook
NG = NetGalley
P = Print
LBC = Ladies Book Club
TBR = From the TBR shelves prior to 2016

JULY 2016

1. E-Tour-- Book Review and Tour Giveaway: Regina Shen, Defiance by Lance Erlick; Dystopian, YA; my rating 4.0.
2. ATBR-- Audible Book Review: Daemon by Daniel Suarez; Sci Fi, Techno Thriller; my rating 4.5.
3. NG-- Book Review: A License to Wed: Rebellious Brides by Diana Quincy; Historical Romance; my rating 4.25.
4.  A-- Audible Book Review: Burning Nation: Book 2 of Divided We Fall by Trent Reedy; Dystopian, Sci Fi, YA; my rating 4.0.
5. NG-- Book Review: Machinations by Hayley Stone; Sci Fi, Suspense Thriller; my rating 4.25.
6. E(Author)-- Book Review: Indiana Belle (American Journey Book 3) by John A. Heldt; Dystopian, Sci Fi, YA; my rating 4.25.
7. ATBR-- Audible Book Review: For Honor We Stand: Man of War, Book 2 by H. Paul Honsinger; Sci Fi, Military Space Opera; my rating 4.5
8. E-Tour-- Book Review: Regina Shen: Endurance by Lance Erlick; Dystopian, Sci Fi, YA; my rating 4.25.
9. NG-- Book Review: The Bluebonnet Betrayal, A Potting Shed Mystery by Marty Wingate; Cozy Mystery; my rating 4.25.
10. ETBR--Book Review: Quiet As They Come by Angie Chau; Asian American, Fiction; my rating 4.5.
11. ATBR-- Audible Book Review: This Present Darkness by Frank Peretti; Inspiration, Religious, Suspense; my rating 4.25.
12. E(Author)--Book Review: Engaged in Danger (Jamie Quinn Cozy Mystery Book 4) by Barbara Venkataraman; Cozy Mystery, Female Lawyer; my rating 4.25.

I have certain goals to reach my challenges and reading total for 2016.

The YEARLY reading goals+ Progress (+ after the number means I am ahead; - means I am short; no symbol means I am right on goal.)
Total = 180................... End of July = 106+
Audio = 72................... to date = 46+
NetGalley = 42.............. to date = 24
Tours  = 24..................... to date = 14 (incls 3 NG)
Ladies Book Club (LBC) = 12.. to date =6-
Print = 12...................... = (4-) These are same as the LBC books.
Mixed in Author Reviews (hopefully includes TBR books I've won) = 18 to date = 22+ (includes childrens)

My TBR goal is to read at least 100 from my shelves, whether Audible, Kindle, other ebook or print.
TBRs read as of July = 36-

The goal breaks down roughly to 15 books a MONTHLY in these formats (with TBRs, print, LBC and others overlapping at times):
Audio --  6
eBooks -- 2  (author review/tour or TBR)
NetGalley -- 3.5
TBR Print  --  1
TBR eBook -- 1
LBC -- 1
Other -- 1

MBS June 2016 Reading Wrap-Up

Martha's Bookshelf June 2016

My goals are repeated below the book list - 15 per month total. I was ahead by two in January but down by five in February; up one in March; down one in April.  May I was up nine by including children's books. JUNE I am down two so that puts me up four for the year to the end of June.  I still hope to gain a couple TBR groups maybe during the summer so I do not have to push at the end of the year.

Total read = 13
Audio/Audible = 7 (1 tour)
eBook = 6 (three tour reviews; 1 author request)
NetGalley = 3
Print = 0

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
TBR =  0 (obtained prior to 2016); year to date = 32
New to Me Authors = 8; year to date = 57
Series Continued = 4; year to date = 16

There was one 5.0 rated book in June and one 4.5.

Code for the list is:
A = Audio/Audible     ABJ = Audiobook Jukebox    ABB = Audiobook Blast
E or ETour = eBook
NG = NetGalley
P = Print
LBC = Ladies Book Club
TBR = From the TBR shelves prior to 2016

       JUNE 2016

1. A-- Audible Book Review: Burning Bright: Ivy Granger Book 3 by E.J. Stevens; Detective, Paranormal, Urban Fantasy; my rating 4.0.
2. E-Tour-- Book Review and Tour Giveaway: Regina Shen: Resilience by Lance Erlick; Dystopian, Sci Fi, YA; my rating 4.0.
3. ABB--Audible Book Review: Dangerous and Unseemly: A Concordia Wells Mystery, Book 1 by K.B. Owen; Historical, Mystery, Amateur Woman Sleuth; my rating 4.25.
4. A-Tour--Audible Book Review: Birthright: Ivy Granger, Psychic Detective, Book 4 by E.J. Stevens Detective, Paranormal, Urban Fantasy; my rating 4.25.
5. E(Author)-- Book Review: Guardian of Paradise by W.E. Lawrence; Historical, Adventure Romance; my rating 4.0.
6. ABJ-- Audible Book Review: Beware the Little White Rabbit Anthology; Sci Fi, Fantasy, Steampunk; my rating 4.5.
7. E-Tour-- Book Review and Tour Giveaway: Regina Shen: Vigilance by Lance Erlick; Dystopian, YA; my rating 4.0.
8. A(Narrator)-- Audible Book Review: The Pit Stop: This Stop Could Be Life or Death by Carmen DeSousa; Mystery, Paranormal; my rating 4.25.
9. ABJ-- Audio Book Review: Desolation by M.L. Banner; Post Apocalyptic, Sci Fi; my rating 4.25.
10. NG-- Book Review: Laos File (The Shake Davis Series) by Dale Dye; Military Thriller; my rating 5.0.
11. ABB-- Audio Book Review: The Christmas Kitten: A Polly Parrett Pet-Sitter Cozy Murder Mystery, Book 2 by Liz Dodwell; Cozy Mystery; my rating 4.25.
12. NG-- Book Review: A Better World by Marcus Sakey; Sci Fi, Suspense Thriller; my rating 4.25.
13. NG-- Book Review and Tour Giveaway: Ultimate Courage (True Heroes) by Piper J. Drake; Romantic Suspense; my rating 4.5. Ending 8/4/2016
Drake 

I have certain goals to reach my challenges and reading total for 2016.

The YEARLY reading goals+ Progress (+ after the number means I am ahead; - means I am short; no symbol means I am right on goal.)
Total = 180................... End of June = 94
Audio = 72................... to date = 42+
NetGalley = 42.............. to date = 21
Tours  = 24..................... to date = 12 (incls 3 NG)
Ladies Book Club (LBC) = 12.. to date = 5
Print = 12...................... = (4-) These are same as the LBC books.
Mixed in Author Reviews (hopefully includes TBR books I've won) = 18 to date = 20+ (includes childrens)

My TBR goal is to read at least 100 from my shelves, whether Audible, Kindle, other ebook or print.
TBRs read as of June = 32-

The goal breaks down roughly to 15 books a MONTHLY in these formats (with TBRs, print, LBC and others overlapping at times):
Audio --  6
eBooks -- 2  (author review/tour or TBR)
NetGalley -- 3.5
TBR Print  --  1
TBR eBook -- 1
LBC -- 1
Other -- 1

Sunday Post July 31, 2016/It's Monday! What are You Reading? Plus Mailbox Monday August 1, 2016

I miss-scheduled this so it is posting late... but better late then not at all.

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.

It is hard to realize that July is over -- it went so fast! I brought my DH home on Thursday. He is in pain today after more activity in the last several days than he probably had in the last three weeks at rehab. You don't realize how normal motions of bathing, dressing and walking up and down stairs tax the body. He managed to got to church this morning and wore plastic wrap under his shirt because the shirts itch and hurt the hair as it is growing back. Turns out it was lucky he did that because the lower tube wounds bled under the wrap. The main sternum cut is scabbed over and healing but these larger (straw size) holes are apparently still open and oozing. He will see the surgeon on Tuesday so we will see what he says.

I enjoyed my reading although I only finished two books; I am midway in two others. I finished one ebooks and one audio. I had hoped to do four reviews but only got three up as I had work that took presidence. I did post my usual memes. 

I got to visit more bloggers early in the week which I am glad of. I spent the later part getting reviews posted.
Thanks as always to all the nice people who visit me.

These were last week's posts:

• Sunday Post July 24, 2016/It's Monday! What are You Reading? Plus Mailbox Monday July 25, 2016.

• Book Review and Tour Giveaway: Ultimate Courage (True Heroes) by Piper J. Drake; Romantic Suspense; my rating 4.5. Ending 8/4/2016

• Book Review: Machinations by Hayley Stone; Sci Fi, Suspense Thriller; my rating 4.25.

• Book Review: Indiana Belle (American Journey Book 3) by John A. Heldt; Dystopian, Sci Fi, YA; my rating 4.25.

• Martha's Bookshelf***Friday Pick Giveaway July 29, 2016. Open Worldwide. Ending 7/28/2016.

• Sharing Beyond Books #263 Comment Giveaway July 30, 2016. Open Worldwide. Ending 8/6/2016.

• Sunday Words of Encouragement July 31, 2016.

Finished Reading:
1. Audible/MP3 (TBR)

This Present Darkness
Written by: Frank Peretti
Narrated by: Jack Sondericker
I enjoyed this re-read. We will be discussing on Saturday.
Click on book title for full description.

2. eBook/Kindle (Author)

Engaged in Danger (Jamie Quinn Cozy Mystery Book 4)
by Barbara Venkataraman
This is an easy reading lawyer mystery series!
I received this from the author for an honest review.
Click on book title for full description.

Currently reading:
1. eBook/Kindle (NG)

Inquisitor
by Mitchell Hogan
I am very engaged in this intriguing sci fi. I am 60% in.
I have had this from NetGalley since early in the year.

Click on book title for full description.

2. Audible/MP3 (TBR)

Unbroken: A World War II Story of Survival, Resilience, and Redemption
Written by: Laura Hillenbrand
Narrated by: Edward Herrmann
I am half way through this remarkable story of WWII.
This is from my Audible TBR shelf.
Click on book title for full description.

3. eBook/Kindle (Promo/review reach out from Lori at Great Escapes Book Tours)

The Cat, The Collector and the Killer
A Cats In Trouble Mystery
by Leann Sweeney 
This looks like a fun cozy that releases 8/2/16.
In the latest mystery from the New York Times bestselling author of The Cat, the Sneak and the Secret, a cat collector is suspected of murder.
Jillian Hart and police chief Tom Stewart are enjoying peaceful, newly wedded bliss in Mercy, South Carolina, until a woman is found wandering the streets one night. She's in her night clothes, disoriented, and carrying a kitten in a tote bag. A search of the woman’s house reveals many more cats, a maze of cardboard boxes—and a dead man.
Although the evidence suggests the frail woman is the killer, Jillian doesn’t believe she’s capable of such a crime. The dead man had many enemies in town, which means finding the real murderer may prove to be its own cat and mouse game...

4. Audible/MP3 (Narrator)

Deceitful Moon: Manny Williams Series, Book 2
Written by: Rick Murcer
Narrated by: DJ Holte
I received this forensic mystery title from the Narrator.
Publisher's Summary
Detective Manny Williams and his partner, Sophie Lee, are called to the scene of a disturbing and gruesome murder at Lansing's local adult playhouse, the White Kitty. The circumstances surrounding the murder rocket deeper into the bizarre as the forensic evidence reveals more questions than answers. As he begins his investigation, Manny is interrupted by a phone call that shakes his world. His nemesis, serial killer Dr. Fredrick Argyle, has killed again and sent the evidence to prove it. Argyle's heinous actions force Manny and Sophie back to the Caribbean. All the while the body count rises in his home city. Two serial killers. Each threatening to change his life forever. One succeeds.
©2011 Rick Murgittroyd (P)2015 Murcer Press, LLC

July 30, 2016 - I am still one day behind but expect to catch up this week with Reading The One Year Bible again along with my husband and others from our church. I will also be listening (sometimes) to the companion commentary online.

I posted three reviews this past week. With two new I still have seven total pending. I hope again to post four this week.  I have to work harder to get up to date.

I've reduced my author ebook reviews committed with no specific dates queue to three books so I might start accepting new ones for the end of the year.
My NetGalley shelves are down to three when I finish the one I plan to read this week.
I'm sort of hoping to set aside September for TBR books only so I am still trying to resist new arcs/author requests and NetGalley.

We have two coming up releases at eTreasure's NetGalley page this week.
Fractal
Rachel J. Mannino
Sci Fi Romance

The Handy Dandy Quick Reference Guide For Teachers

Working with Children with Academic & Behavior Problems

Dr. Jackie Paxton

Nonfiction, Reference

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 through NetGalley and two audiobooks from the narrators.
Again - I didn't purchase any kindle titles since I picked up more than enough free kindle titles.

Are your mailbox and TBR piles blooming?

Review Titles

Received from the narrator:

Deceitful Moon: Manny Williams Series, Book 2
Written by: Rick Murcer
Narrated by: DJ Holte
Forensic Evidence Mystery.
See full description above under Currently Reading.

Received through NetGalley:

The Cat, The Collector and the Killer
A Cats In Trouble Mystery
by Leann Sweeney 
A cozy mystery - see full description under Currently Reading above.

Received from the narrator:
Unseemly Pursuits: The Concordia Wells Mysteries Book 2
Audiobook
Written by: K.B. Owen
Narrated by: Becket Royce

Cozy mystery - I enjoyed book one and was glad to be offered book two.

Won

NONE

Purchased

NONE

Free

Over the past week I added 67!! 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.

Sunday Words of Encouragement July 31, 2016

I do love Sunday mornings! Our Sunday School Teacher is doing a wrap-up on the study of Romans. I am saving those notes to share another day.

This was our retiring Pastor’s last Sunday preaching. He didn’t get a lot of time because his wife spoke first and there were extra songs by men’s quintet, including Pastor. Mrs. Pastor shared her thanks for the 28 wonderful years at our church. She noted that in time of change, such as this, we can have peace, as she does. She let’s peace rule and counts her blessings. She gives thanks for: God’s divine plan, friends, weddings & funerals, shared celebrations, shared struggles, unity, love of worship, shared bounty, welcomed family, dedicated staff, continual prayers, and encouragement.

In Pastor’s last five or so minutes he shared from chapters 13 through 17 in the Gospel of John. Repeated through these chapters is that Jesus loved his own who were in the world. He reminded them to have peace by focusing on Jesus (John 14:25-27). He extorted all of his disciples to love one another; pray for perfect peace and love with an overwhelming love. (John 17:24-26).

I looked at many videos but didn’t find one that fits with today’s message much better than this one. My Peace…

Verses for Today:
John 14: 25-27 NIV
25 “All this I have spoken while still with you. 26 But the Advocate, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, will teach you all things and will remind you of everything I have said to you. 27 Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.

I give thanks for the wonderful ministry of our Pastor and his wife. I pray for peace and rest as they transition into retirement.  I am looking forward to the move of God as our new Pastor comes. I pray for God's safety and anointing for his whole family.

Sharing Beyond Books #263 Comment Giveaway July 30, 2016

Hello again and Welcome to Sharing Beyond Books, SBB!
The post is a little late tonight because hubby and I were watching the movie Jack Frost Rise of the Guardians. I enjoyed the animation and the story although I have to think the dark parts might not be so good for younger children.

Thanks to everyone who commented last week.

Most of us will read a book even if we don't like the cover. HOWEVER - many of us acknowledge that we are drawn to look at the blurb because of a good cover so it is possible we wouldn't look at a good book that has an unimpressive cover. I have to agree with Fredaman's comment: "I learned that having a great book cover doesn't always make the book great, and vice versa."

Several of us noted that a too sexy cover is a turn off and we wouldn't buy a book with such a cover. (That is how I feel about the old 'bodice ripper' covers too although some of the older books are tamer than the new ones.)

~~~~~

The Winner from SBB #262 comments is:#10 Fredamans who can make a GC choice if international or book choice from the Updated ARC/Review titles or (not yet updated) Love titles - all linked near the end of the post. [I'm hoping to update the book choices - maybe the beginning of next year, lol.] Please let me know your choice by completing the WINNER FORM.

WEEK #263

(One Question.)

My question this week: Are you a cheerful riser or do you wake up/get up grumpy more often than not??

I am a cheerful rise. Not that I always jump right out of bed. But even when I have to roll myself out I start with a "good morning". That gets even better when I get my coffee!

I found two images I really liked. Which would you pick?

Image Found at A Medium Corporation

2nd image found at AnimalMemes.com


Thanks to those who are sending in Questions. DON'T BE SHY! Surely everyone has a Q or two you'd like to ask. Input suggestions in this Suggested Question Form. At the end of each month I draw from the suggestions I used during the month and that person will get a book choice or GC. I thank everyone for submitting questions. Thanks for sending in questions! The supply of questions is dwindling so share some if you think of any -- even if they are duplicates I'll weed through or try to modify.

The questions in July were shared by Jenna, Becky, CarolL and bn100. Random.org picked #1 of 4 so Jenna gets a book choice or GC credit.

Your turn to share:
My question this week: Are you a cheerful riser or do you wake up/get up grumpy more often than not??

SBB Comment Winners can choose a selection from the Valentine and "Love" books or the February 2015 Newly Updated ARC/Review List. (My daughter pulled several of the Christmas titles to give with gift bags we made up for the nursing homes. One of these days I will get together a new box of Christmas titles.)

SBB Rules:
a) Must be a follower.
b) Share a comment on the question above.
Open internationally and an international winner may get a smaller book or a $5.00 GC if I decide the mailing is too much.
I will pick a Comment winner from all comments made through Saturday August 6, 2016 at 5 PM central.

Martha's Bookshelf***Friday Pick Giveaway July 29, 2016

Happy Friday!
Hubby is home now - Yay. Already his first day he did a bit too much moving around and was in a lot of pain as he went to bed. He will have to take things more slowly.
It is hard to believe that July just vanished - it went by so fast!
I finally got the picture of the June 25 box of books up. All the won books for the past two-three months have been pulled and my clerk will be preparing them for mailing today (Friday).

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 too late to do the winner post! I will randomly pick two winners to announce Friday mornings with the next Pick post.

Thank you to all who entered the July 22 Pick. There was one automatic win this week. Automatic wins are those who requested the book four times without other people asking for that book during those weeks. There were no titles blocked.
AUTO: Becky gets Witch's Hammer

CONGRATULATIONS
to Random.org picked Winners from July 22 Pick:
Llehn gets a GC

Elizabeth gets The Commander

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.}

x

Today it is July - but not much longer! 

Image found at ebook.ITMedia.

New Book Group #66 June 25, 2016

(I will post a picture later. *Four of these books are very old; pulled from a box of gothic novels I have had for many years. They may not be wanted by anyone and if so, I will donate elsewhere in time.)
Sandra Brown: Above and Beyond and Honor Bound (my copy is 1986 edition with a different cover
Joan Johnston: Faron & Garth: The Cowboy and the Princess / The Wrangler and the Rich Girl and Sweetwater Seduction
SINGLES:
Swan for the Money by Donna Andrews (new- hardcover)
*Maggie – Her Marriage by Taylor Caldwell (1953 very old, yellowed pages, some stain damage doesn't effect reading)
*Witch’s Hammer by Caroline Farr (a 1967 yellowed pages - different cover)
*Mistress of Mount Fair by Jane Gordon
Once an Angel by Tammy Hilz
Bound By Temptation by Lavinia Kent
Fire Dancer by Ann Maxwell
On Fire by Carla Neggers (1999 version with different cover)
Breathing Room by Susan Elizabeth Phillips
Waiting for Nick & Considering Kate by Nora Roberts
*She Came Back by Patricia Wentworth (1981 yellowed pages)
Freedom's Stand by J. M. Windle


New Book Group #65 April 29, 2016

PAIRS:
Jayne Ann Krentz: Gift of Gold and Man with a Past (spine creased) 
Linda Howard: Cover of Night and Strangers Night
SINGLES:
A Dangerous Fancy by Tracy Cozzens
The Bodyguard and the Snitch by Christy Tillery French (autographed)
When Dashing Met Danger by Shana Galen
The Champion by Heather Grothaus
Never Marry a Cowboy by Lorraine Heath
Just The Way You Are by Donna Jordan
The Second Chair by John Lescroart (hardcover)
What a Rogue Desires by Caroline Linden (spine creased)
Violets are Blue by James Patterson
The Bequest by Candice Proctor
A Perilous Attraction by Patricia Francis Rowell (spine creased)
So Wild A Kiss by Nancy Richards-Akers


New Book Group #64 March 4, 2016

SINGLES:
Short Straw (Ed Eagle Novel) by Stuart Woods Hardcover
First Things First by Stephen R. Covey- Audio Cassette
N is for noose by Sue Grafton -Cassettes
Regretsy: Where DIY Meets WTF by April Winchell


New Book Group #63 January 22, 2016

SINGLES:
Wayward Winds by Michael Phillips - Audio Tapes

New Book Group #62 November 6, 2015
All Gone

New Book Group #61 October 30, 2015
After I noticed the trend I went on a hunt for “bride” titles. I even pulled a couple from some of my long time collections(*). (But they are not getting read on my shelves.)

SINGLES:
Bride of Lochbarr by Margaret Moore (*)
The Ideal Bride by Stephanie Laurens (*)
A Necessary Bride by Debra Mullins
Border Bride by Deborah Hale

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

Shannon Drake –  Realm of Shadows (Alliance Vampires#4) 
SINGLES:
The Shadowing by Joan Overfield
The Renegade Hunter by Lynsay Sands
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!

SINGLES:
Cruise to a Wedding by Betty Neels

New Book Group #58 June 26, 2015 -- All Gone

New Book Group #57 May 1, 2015 -- All Gone


New Book Group #56 March 20, 2015
SINGLES:
The Sweetheart Dance by Patti Ann Colt
Raintree Haunted by Linda Winstead Jones (spine creases)

New Book Group #55 February 5, 2015 -- All Gone

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 Hidden Truth of Cytech's Randall Forty byVickie Kennedy
First to Fight Anthology
Jezebel by Katherine Sutcliff
The Commander by Kate Bridges
A Garden of Friends by Penny Pierce Rose
Undateable by Ellen Rakieten & Anne Coyle


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)
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)
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


If you saw the pictures posted of my bookshelves and boxes you know I do have lots of books! And that doesn't include the other eight or so boxes at my office!! And more books as I find deals too good to pass up! I am sharing my book bounty by these Friday Pick Giveaways.

I started Friday Pick on November 27, 2009 and in almost six years I have posted 62 groups of 16 (992) books to find new homes! (as of November 6, 2015).

I am happy to say that so far about 980+ 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!

Book Review: Indiana Belle (American Journey Book 3) by John A. Heldt

This is an engaging time-travel with romance and mystery.
Indiana Belle (American Journey Book 3)
by John A. Heldt

File Size: 743 KB
Print Length: 295 pages
Publisher: John A. Heldt (April 14, 2016)
ASIN: B01E9UB7Z8
Genre: Time Travel, Mystery, Romance
My Rating: 4.25 of 5.0

Providence, Rhode Island, 2017. When doctoral student Cameron Coelho, 28, opens a package from Indiana, he finds more than private papers that will help him with his dissertation. He finds a photograph of a beautiful society editor murdered in 1925 and clues to a century-old mystery. Within days, he meets Geoffrey Bell, the "time-travel professor," and begins an unlikely journey through the Roaring Twenties. Filled with history, romance, and intrigue, INDIANA BELLE follows a lonely soul on the adventure of a lifetime as he searches for love and answers in the age of Prohibition, flappers, and jazz.

Review:
Cameron Coelho is researching to prepare a doctoral dissertation on the roaring twenties. He receives a package including a diary and a photograph of a beautiful and smart society editor, Candice Louise Bell, who was murdered in 1925. The clues in the diary and papers imply that Candice’s father and uncle found a means of time travel. Cameron quickly becomes obsessed with the picture of Candice and the idea of time travel.

Cameron contacts Geoffrey Bell who is a descendant of Candice’s uncle. Geoffrey is a bit standoffish but his charming wife, Jeanette, is encouraging. After discussions Cameron barters with Geoffrey for a chance to go back in time! Cameron has no family and no real friends or connections so it isn’t so difficult for him to move into a new setting. Still he wasn’t completely prepared for all circumstances or emotions.

Cameron befriends Candice and secretly begins to try to unravel the events that will result in her death. Candice is an eager reporter who has been sniffing out crime in her community. There are several powerful men in her sphere including her dedicated and sometimes progressive news boss, a rich lawyer who was her ex-fiance, and ‘hidden’ members of the local KKK. Cameron also meets the man who was found guilty of the murder. Now Cameron just has to figure out how to keep her save and not destroy the future.

Mr. Heldt has a wonderful ability to write an engaging time travel with lovely, sweet romance and a mystery added in. I enjoy the settings and the difficulties that Candice faces in an age that is just on the verge of women moving into more visible and important positions. There is also interesting history of prohibition and KKK. The expected murder and the mystery surrounding the event add a feeling of suspense as the romance grows. There are several little ironies and historical nuggets woven into the story that made me smile. And of course is there is always the question of time-travel paradox.

I did read an earlier time travel by Mr. Heldt although not in this series. This one can be read as a stand alone but it might be even more enjoyable if the series is read in order. The writing is smooth and moves at a good, easy pace. I recommend this for the engaging read, the lovely romance and the mystery.

I received this title from the author, having enjoyed another of his "time-travel" novels.

Book Review: Machinations by Hayley Stone

This story jumps into motion and doesn’t slow down as it speeds along with intense action and emotion.

Machinations
by Hayley Stone

File Size: 1858 KB
Print Length: 343 pages
Publisher: Hydra (July 26, 2016)
ASIN: B018CHA0ZM
Genre: Sci Fi, Dystopian
My Rating: 4.5 of 5.0

Perfect for fans of Robopocalypse, this action-packed science-fiction debut introduces a chilling future and an unforgettable heroine with a powerful role to play in the battle for humanity’s survival.
The machines have risen, but not out of malice. They were simply following a command: to stop the endless wars that have plagued the world throughout history. Their solution was perfectly logical. To end the fighting, they decided to end the human race.
A potent symbol of the resistance, Rhona Long has served on the front lines of the conflict since the first Machinations began—until she is killed during a rescue mission gone wrong. Now Rhona awakens to find herself transported to a new body, complete with her DNA, her personality, even her memories. She is a clone . . . of herself.
Trapped in the shadow of the life she once knew, the reincarnated Rhona must find her place among old friends and newfound enemies—and quickly. For the machines are inching closer to exterminating humans for good. And only Rhona, whoever she is now, can save them.

Review:
The computers were given a command to stop the fighting around the world. Their solution was to eliminate the humans. Now Rhona Long has become the symbol of the resistance, even if she hadn’t planned it. As this story opens, Rhona suffers a fatal injury on the front lines and is dying in the arms of the man she loves, Camus.

Rhona awakens with her best friend, Samuel, who was the scientist she trusted with her secret orders – to clone her in the event of death! Samuel and a warrior of a man, Ulrich, have to pull Rhona out of stasis and escape the lab before the machines capture them and kill her…again. Ulrich stays behind to give Samuel and Rhona the chance to escape. They are rescued and returned to the main base where the council questions who Rhona is and whether she can be trusted.

Rhona slowly begins to remember her past but quickly remembers her feelings for Camus. Although he is willing to maintain the charade of their affection, he resents the Rhona clone and resists any true feelings towards her. After all, it has taken six months to bury his grief over Rhona’s death. This emotional upheaval has to take place in the background anyway as at least one person on base is openly hostile towards Rhona. The can protect Rhona from the known threat but the secret saboteur is a different story.

Meanwhile, a neighboring base calls on Rhona’s base for help as the Machines have discovered their location and are attacking. Camus goes on the rescue mission which quickly becomes a trap. Now only Rhona’s fast thinking and decisive action can save the man she loves, … not to mention the remaining humans.

I really enjoyed the non-stop, intense action and emotion in this story. The premise is very interesting and makes you wonder: could you, would you, love a clone of your loved one? I liked the well-developed characters, including nerdy Samuel, brusque Ulrich and sweet Hanna who lost her hearing during an attack and speaks primarily in sign language. I recommend this to readers who like end of the world as we know it scenarios with lots of action. I would like to read more by this author and in this series if it continues.

I received this from the publisher through NetGalley. The title released July 26, 2016. This qualifies for my NetGalley Challenge.