Book Review: Girl of Fire: The Expulsion Project Book One by Norma Hinkens

This is an engaging space adventure with a teen and friends seeking their true identities.

Girl of Fire: The Expulsion Project Book One
(A Science Fiction Dystopian Thriller)
by Norma Hinkens

File Size: 2861 KB
Print Length: 343 pages
Publisher: Dunecadia Publishing; 1 edition (January 10, 2017)
ASIN: B01MRUL6U5
Genre: Dystopian, Sci Fi, Thriller
My Rating 4.0 of 5.0

ORIGIN. DESTINY. FATE. 
How far would you go to unravel the truth?
Trattora is the adopted daughter of the Chieftain on a primitive frontier planet. Velkan is an indentured serf who has never known a day of freedom. Forced to flee a terrifying invasion by Galactic Pirates, they find themselves thrown together on a ramshackle mining vessel that harbors more than one dark secret. Fate and chemistry combine when the pair’s matching birth bracelets lead them to a shocking discovery about their true lineage. Stakes rise when they uncover the classified Expulsion Project, and the devastating sacrifice their birth families made to spare their lives. Determined to save them from liquidation, Trattora and Velkan plunge headlong into a frantic race against time and space to take down the genocidal self-actualizing software that now controls large swathes of their home planet.
But will they navigate the treacherous dealings of the seedy Galactic underworld in time to rescue the families who loved them enough to let them go?
Girl of Fire is the first novel in The Expulsion Project, a sci-fi, dystopian thriller trilogy with a whisper of romance, a heavy dose of adventure, and action galore. If you are a Firefly or Dark Matter fan, or still in Hunger Games or Cinder withdrawal, this is the book mashup for you!

Review:
Trattora is a teen with red hair which sets her apart from the white-haired people of her clan. She was fortunate to be adopted by the Chieftain but she has always yearned to know her true history. Few vessels visit their ‘rural’ planet so Trattora is thrilled when a damaged mining vessel lands. The community can’t offer much help, but Trattora tries to find something to trade. She shows the miners unique rocks that are part of the clan’s sacred grounds. The captain believes the rocks are valuable and they are discussing a deal until a clan elder uncovers a terrible secret aboard the miner’s ship.

Trattora has become interested in Velkan, a crew member who is an indentured serf who had no choice in the captain’s illegal cargo. Trattora is set on helping the crew to escape when news of a marauder’s attack reaches the village. Trattora, her best friend and a young guard are unable to make it to the cavern shelters so they escape on the mining ship. Trattora thinks she has made a deal with the captain but she will learn that you can’t trust a corrupt trader.

Trattora discovers Velkan has a birth bracelet like her own. This, and their chemistry, draws them closer as Trattora insists they discover the secret of their birth families. They face betrayal and danger, steal a ship – or two -- and find another bracelet owner as they pursue their past. Their new friend helps them to decipher the code of the bracelets which tells them that a powerful AI project was taking over their home planet fifteen years ago. Now they are all determined to try to rescue their families.

The world building in this story is creative and engaging. The characters are developed – some likable and some not. Although I enjoyed the story for the most part, the situations and solutions stretch the realm of believability. Trattora is a naïve girl who has little experience with evil or mechanics. Still, she has read all the books she could find about space flight so when it comes time to snag a ride on her first space ship she not only feels at home, she can take the controls. She manages to negotiate with illegal traders and escapes their betrayals only with the help of her friends. This sort of ‘good fortune’ happens repeatedly as Trattora rushes headlong into dangerous societies. It is fortunate that she gathers other skilled companions around her in addition to Velkan.

The crew does have a diversity that reminded me a little of Firefly (not Hunger Games or Divergent). Although I struggled with the apparent foolish actions, those actions kept the group moving forward and provided surprising twists along the journey. I suppose it is a gift of fantasy and sci fi to be unrealistic and still be fun. There is a conclusion even as the ending leaves an appropriate opening for the next book. Readers who enjoy fast paced, teen adventuring sci fi should give this series a try.

I received this from the author for an honest review.

Martha's Bookshelf***Friday Pick Giveaway March 17, 2017

Happy Friday!
This week sort of disappeared quickly at home.
My office work was more according to schedule this week and it seemed productive. I still have oodles to do and keep plugging away.
I sure hope all our northern friends made it safely through this last snow blast.

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 March 10 Pick. There were no automatic wins again this week. Automatic wins are those who requested the book four times without other people asking for that book during those weeks. There were TWO titles blocked this week.

CONGRATULATIONS
to Random.org picked Winners from March 10 Pick:
NIKKI gets a GC
and
JANHVI gets GC.

All winners please fill in the Winner's Acceptance Form or email me to confirm your win, send your snail mail address information and let me know if you would like bookmarks - sensual, sexy or sweet bookmarks. {The form is new because Google changed their forms and the old one wasn't letting me print out the responses.}

I'll bet we would rather be 'blown away' by a book than by snow and wind!
Image was found at BBC Culture.

New Book Group #71 March 10, 2017
Mysteries and Thrillers
PAIR:
Matthew Reilly: Temple and Area 7
SINGLES:
Deception on His Mind by Elizabeth George
‘E’ is for Evidence by Sue Grafton
In Plain Sight by C.J. Box
Keepers by Gary A. Braunbeck
Lullaby and Goodnight by Wendy Corsi Staub
One Dark Night by Kevin F. McMurray
Rattlesnake Crossing by J.A. Jance
The Cat Who Sang for the Birds by Lillian Jackson Braun
The Panic Zone by Rick Mofina
The Silenced by Heather Graham
The Tale of Cuckoo Brow Wood by Susan Wittig Albert
Total Exposure by Tori Carrington
There Was A Little Girl by Ed McBain (Audio Cassettes)
The Old Silent by Martha Grimes (Audio Cassettes)


New Book Group #70 January 27, 2017
Thought I’d share some romances for February:
PAIRS:
Betty Neels: The Girl With Green Eyes and the Damsel in Green
Linda Howard: The Touch of Fire and Loving Forever
SINGLES:
The Devilish Pleasures of a Duke by Jillian Hunter
Kissed by Shadows (Get Connected Romances) by Jane Feather
Love's Brazen Fire by Betina Krahn
Love Letters From a Duke (The Bachelor Chronicles Book 3) by Elizabeth Boyle
Love Wild and Fair by Bertrice Small
Only With Your Love (Vallerands Book 2) by Lisa Kleypas
Scandalous Love by Brenda Joyce
Someone to Love by Jude Deveraux
Valentine by Jane Feather
A Visit From Sir Nicholas (Effington Family Book 9) by Victoria Alexander
Winter Fire by Jo Beverly


New Book Group #69 November 18, 2016
(I'll post a picture and links later)
Some books for Christmas
Mistletoe Marriage by Jessica Hart
Jingle Bell Blessings by Bonnie K. Winn
Snowbound with Mr. Right by Judy Christenberry
The Christmas Cowboy by Michele Dunaway
All I Want for Christmas by Gina Wilkins
All She Wants for Christmas by Stacy Connelly


New Book Group #68 October 28, 2016

SINGLE:
The Seventh Tower, Book One by Garth Nix
Plan of Attack by Dan Brown
Critical by Robin Cook


New Book Group #67 September 9, 2016

(*Three more very old books from my Gothics box.)
SINGLES:
*The Man in the Garden by Paule Mason (1969 - yellowed)


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.)
SINGLES:
*Maggie – Her Marriage by Taylor Caldwell (1953 very old, yellowed pages, some stain damage doesn't effect reading)
Fire Dancer by Ann Maxwell


New Book Group #65 April 29, 2016

SINGLES:
The Champion by Heather Grothaus


New Book Group #64 March 4, 2016
SINGLES:
First Things First by Stephen R. Covey- Audio Cassette

New Book Group #63 January 22, 2016 -- All Gone

New Book Group #62 November 6, 2015 -- All Gone

New Book Group #61 October 30, 2015

SINGLES:
Border Bride by Deborah Hale

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

SINGLES:
The Shadowing by Joan Overfield
Trilogy Of Mysteries Audio Book Shadow Prey, There Was A Little Girl, Smokescreen Audio Cassettes (NOT CDs)

New Book Group #59 July 31, 2015 -- All Gone

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 -- All Gone

BOX 4 2015 (reboxed from Boxes 47-53)

The Hidden Truth of Cytech's Randall Forty by Vickie Kennedy
Jezebel by Katherine Sutcliff
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)
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
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)

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 seven years I have posted 68 groups of 16 (1,088) books to find new homes! (as of November 4, 2016).

I am happy to say that so far about 1,046+ 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!

Audio Book Review and Tour Giveaway: A Fine Year by for Murder: A Thorny Rose Mystery, Book 2 by Lauren Carr

This is another engaging and fast moving mystery with strong characters and good twists.
A Fine Year for Murder: A Thorny Rose Mystery, Book 2
Written by: Lauren Carr
Narrated by: C.J. McAllister

Length: 10 hrs and 17 mins
Series: Thorny Rose Mysteries, Book 2
Unabridged Audiobook
Release Date:02-06-17
Publisher: Acorn Book Services
Genre: Cozy Mystery
My Rating: 4.25 of 5.0

Buy the Book:  Amazon  ~ Add on Goodreads

Publisher's Summary
After 10 months of marital bliss, Jessica Faraday and Murphy Thornton are still discovering and adjusting to their life together. Settled in their new home, everything appears to be perfect...except in the middle of the night when, in the darkest shadows of her subconscious, a deep secret from Jessica's past creeps to the surface to make her strike out at Murphy.
When investigative journalist Dallas Walker tells the couple about her latest case, known as the Pine Bridge Massacre, they realize Jessica may have witnessed the murder of a family while visiting family at the winery near-by, and suppressed the memory.
Determined to uncover the truth and find justice for the murder victims, Jessica and Murphy return to the scene of the crime with Dallas Walker, a spunky bull-headed Texan. Can this family reunion bring closure for a community touched by tragedy or will this prickly get-together bring an end to the Thorny Rose couple?
©2017 Terri Lynn Zaleski (P)2017 Terri Lynn Zaleski

Review:
Jessica Faraday, daughter of a retired homicide detective, is recently married to Murphy Thornton, son of a former JAG lawyer, and a naval officer himself with some series skills and hidden assignments. Jessica is having nightmares that have been persistent since a childhood trauma and are causing her to strike Murphy while they are sleeping.

Jessica and Murphy attend a family bar-b-que where investigative journalist Dallas Walker is describing a cold case she is investigating that is known as the Pine Bridge Massacre – a brutal killing of a family. Suddenly Jessica realizes that she witnessed the death of the young girl but has been suppressing the details.

Murphy and Jessica decide to take a second honeymoon at Pine Bridge to investigate the old murder. Dallas, a lanky, gorgeous red-headed Texan, will come in as a rich journalist to the fancy plantation resort on the other end to town.

Murphy gets to meet Jessica’s cousins, the nice ones and the decidedly not nice ones. The newlywed’s appearance in town immediately stirs up trouble especially when their dog digs out a half-buried skull near the old crime scene. Secrets begin to unravel and there are some very unhappy, and dangerous murderers who want the Thornton’s out of town – one way or another.

This story moves along well as Ms. Carr weaves through the details of another mystery full of corruption and murder. It is fun to follow Jessica and Murphy as they uncover clues and speculate on the facts and motives. Murphy’s training gets him into a bit of trouble. I enjoyed the inclusion of the pets and a new ‘family’ character, a computer assistant named Nigel. The author includes some surprises and neatly wraps up the loose ends.

This is the second mystery in the series and I enjoyed both. (See review of Kill and Run.) They are easy to follow with likeable characters whose interaction adds to the engaging storylines. I recommend this to readers who like a fast paced, light in tone (but not light in danger) mystery.

Audio Notes: C.J. McAllister does a nice job with the narration. The voices are given appropriate accents and tones and the pacing is handled to keep the characters distinct and the story moving. I enjoyed the listening experience which made this move more quickly for me.

I received this title through iReads Book Tours. It qualifies for my 2017 Audio Challenge.

BOOK REVIEW TOUR SCHEDULE AVAILABLE AT THIS LINK.

Book Trailer for A FINE YEAR FOR MURDER:

Author's Bio:

Lauren Carr is the international best-selling author of the Mac Faraday, Lovers in Crime, and Thorny Rose Mysteries—over twenty titles across three fast-paced mystery series filled with twists and turns!

Book reviewers and readers alike rave about how Lauren Carr’s seamlessly crosses genres to include mystery, suspense, romance, and humor.

Lauren is a popular speaker who has made appearances at schools, youth groups, and on author panels at conventions. She lives with her husband, son, and four dogs (including the real Gnarly) on a mountain in Harpers Ferry, WV.

Connect with Lauren: Website  ~  Twitter  ~  Facebook

Giveaway:

One winner will receive a $100 Amazon gift card (Open internationally)
Ends April 22

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Book Review: Eric Olafson: Space Pirate by Vanessa Ravencroft

This is great sci fi with wonderful world building, fascinating characters and plenty of action!

Eric Olafson: Space Pirate
(Eric Olafson Series)
by Vanessa Ravencroft

File Size: 1055 KB
Print Length: 589 pages
Publisher: Inkitt (March 11, 2017)
ASIN: B06XJZLYBG
Genre: Military Sci Fi, Space Exploration
My Rating: 4.75 of 5.0

It's the year 5019, and the Milky Way Galaxy is teeming with exotic species. The majority of the known civilizations have formed a multi-cultural mega organization called the United Stars of Galaxies.
This Union is protected by the brave men and women of the United Stars Space fleet against external threats.
Eric Olafson, born and raised under harsh conditions of the traditional and inward looking society of Nilfeheim, left his planet to fulfill his dreams of becoming a Starship captain.
When Eric gets kidnaped by an unknown organization and brought to Sin 4, a lawless Planet deep in free space, he slowly starts to discover his central role in an ancient conflict of cosmic proportions.

Review:
Eric Olafson is a creative midshipman who has always longed to become a Starship captain in the Union fleet that protects the numerous allies against unfriendly threats. Right now Eric is hoping to pass graduation in a few weeks – if he can stay out of trouble and live that long! It seems that trouble follows Eric… or he finds it. Fortunately, he has an unusual group of classmates who are usually nearby to help him face trouble with their remarkable skills. As one of the Admirals explains to Eric midway through the book: “You and your friends are not the average cadets and midshipman.”

Har-Hi is an extreme fighter – that’s what he loves. Wetmouth is a science whiz. Krabbel is an arachnoid (spider) who loves hugging and is ‘handy’ to have around. Narth is a from a planet of psi-mind readers who used to keep to themselves. But he has developed a bond with Eric and is determined to stay by his side and learn and share all the feelings humans have. Cirruit is a cyberunit who adds his own techno skills and subtle humor to the group. He is longing for the upgrade that will allow him to experience things like taste and other senses. The friends repeat, on more than one occasion, how important their friendship is and how their lives are enriched by knowing each other. They fear being separated when given their new assignments.

The first third of the book focuses on Eric as he is kidnapped and forced to escape and survive on a hostile planet. Eric has to dodge hostiles until he is aided by Mother Superior, a leader of a society of women who are shape shifters, extreme courtesans and sometimes spies. Eric is the first male allowed to enter their community, learn many of their secrets and train under the master teaching of the leader.

Eventually Eric is reconnected with his ship and warmly welcomed by his companions. After a short R&R they are sent on special assignment on a distant station base. It appears that nothing is going on and that prior accidents have been due to extreme boredom. But we know how appearances can be wrong! Once again, the action picks up as Eric and friends attempt to stop pirates from accessing supplies on the base.

The pattern of the story runs with fast paced action and a short R&R before the “Olafson team” faces another unexpected assignment. I love the "team" and how they contribute their talents to face the enemies. Now you might question why the titles says “Space Pirate” – what does that mean? It’s creative and lots of fun. The world building is wonderful with a great variety of characters and surprises all along the way. There are some social points made by the author through the story and I also appreciated that the story has minimal rough language.

This is apparently part of a series and alludes to prior adventures. This one works as a stand-alone but makes me interested in reading the back stories to discover more about Eric’s meeting and becoming friends with these many alien creatures. I strongly recommend this to readers who enjoy science fiction with detailed world building, creative characters and lots of action.

I received an ARC from Inkitt for an honest review.

About the Author

It all started in 1989 when my friends and I played Role Playing Games such as AD, Midgard, Traveler etc. Not really satisfied with the selection of commercially available RPGames, I created a new one called Action World. Our RPG evolved into the Galactic Chronicles and I am now almost 22 years in that Universe. There are 34 handwritten 500-600 page books in the Galactic Chronicles series. I love to write and spend time in this universe.

Now I have dedicated readership from all over the world and this makes me prouder than I could ever express in words. (Sad testament for someone who claims to be a writer, I know)

Want to know more about my world? Ever wondered what a viking handshake looks like? Or what kind of licensing you need to carry certain cybernetic weapons? I have written over 13,000 pages about the Universe on my GalNet Wiki which you can check out here: http://galnet.wikia.com

You can also follow me on Twitter & Facebook for more information and sneak peeks into the Galactic Chronicles: https://www.facebook.com/ravencroftvanessa/
Tweets at ‎@VanessaRaven

Book Review and Tour Giveaway: Elementary, She Read: A Sherlock Holmes Bookshop Mystery

I enjoyed this fun, detail-filled mystery.
Elementary, She Read: A Sherlock Holmes Bookshop Mystery
by Vicki Delany

Print Length: 320 pages
Publisher: Crooked Lane Books (March 14, 2017)
ASIN: B01MT6H7O1
Genre: Cozy Mystery
My Rating: 4.5 of 5.0

Gemma Doyle, a transplanted Englishwoman, has returned to the quaint town of West London on Cape Cod to manage her Great Uncle Arthur's Sherlock Holmes Bookshop and Emporium. The shop--located at 222 Baker Street--specializes in the Holmes canon and pastiche, and is also the home of Moriarty the cat. When Gemma finds a rare and potentially valuable magazine containing the first Sherlock Homes story hidden in the bookshop, she and her friend Jayne (who runs the adjoining Mrs. Hudson's Tea Room) set off to find the owner, only to stumble upon a dead body.

The highly perceptive Gemma is the police’s first suspect, so she puts her consummate powers of deduction to work to clear her name, investigating a handsome rare books expert, the dead woman's suspiciously unmoved son, and a whole family of greedy characters desperate to cash in on their inheritance. But when Gemma and Jayne accidentally place themselves at a second murder scene, it's a race to uncover the truth before the detectives lock them up for good.

Fans of Sherlock Holmes will delight in the sleuthing duo of Gemma and Jayne in Elementary, She Read, the clever and captivating series debut by nationally bestselling author Vicki Delany.

Review:
Gemma is an Englishwoman living in West London, Cape Cod. She helps her Great Uncle by managing his Bookshop and Emporium and assisting with the next door tea room of her friend, Jayne. The bookshop does not often have rare, first edition Sherlock books but it has a good collection of knick-knacks featuring the famous detective and his stories.

The shop is filled with a tour group when a strange woman slips in and out. Gemma is the type who is extremely observant of people and situations. She noticed the woman and after the store cleared she discovers what might be a valuable early Sherlock magazine that was tucked in one of the bookshelves. Gemma doesn’t understand why the woman left the item and, finding a clue to the woman’s lodging, Gemma drags Jayne along to the hotel to return the magazine. When they knock on the door, Gemma steps in to find the woman dead!

Gemma manages to assess the crime scene before being removed with a bit of suspicion focused on her for being there. The officers sent to the crime scene turn out to be a detective, Ryan, she has a past with, and his new partner who immediately suspects Gemma. Gemma isn’t convinced that the police will do a proper investigation, especially since they are focusing on her. In spite of objections to her involvement, Gemma sets out on her own investigation of the family drama behind the rare magazine. Needless to say, Gemma has an eye for detail and a nosey bent that gets her into trouble.

I greatly enjoyed Gemma’s obsession with detail, even as it might drive some people nuts. The author carries the detail well in settings and crime clues. There are a couple of suspects and even Gemma misses a clue or two until it is almost too late. I enjoyed the tone of the story and the deductive reasoning with Jayne adding a bit now and then, - very reminiscent of Sherlock and Watson. (There is even a character named Moriarty who doesn't like Gemma.)  I enjoyed the hint of chemistry between Gemma and Ryan and have hopes for more of that to develop in future books.

The writing moves along well, even with the compulsive details. I found the read to be quick, fun and engaging. I highly recommend this to readers who enjoy Sherlock Holmes mysteries, enjoy attention to detail and like cozy mysteries.

I received this title from NetGalley for Great Escapes Book Blog Tours. It qualifies for 2017 NetGalley Challenge and "E" on Alphabet Soup Challenge.

Read the first chapter here.

Elementary, She Read: A Sherlock Holmes Bookshop Mystery

 

Vicki Delany is one of Canada’s most prolific and varied crime writers. She is the author of twenty-three published crime novels, including standalone Gothic thrillers, the Constable Molly Smith series, and the Year Round Christmas Mysteries. Under the pen name of Eva Gates she is the national bestselling author of the Lighthouse Library cozy series.

Vicki lives and writes in Prince Edward County, Ontario. She is the past president of the Crime Writers of Canada.

www.vickidelany.com Facebook: Vicki Delany & Eva Gates and twitter: @vickidelany and @evagatesauthor

Purchase Links

Amazon B&N

GIVEAWAY: 

One Print Copy, US. Only

Ends 3/26/17.
a Rafflecopter giveaway


TOUR PARTICIPANTS found HERE

Sunday Post March 12, 2017/It's Monday! What are You Reading? Plus Mailbox Monday March 13, 2017.

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 week got crazy busy at work. I just keep plugging away...
The weather was warming but, like the rest of the country, we are getting a cold snap this week.
This week I add prayers for those suffering fires in many states.

Reading was good although I didn't get through too many books. I finished two books: one eBook for review and one print - for my edification. I posted only one review plus February wrap up, plus I posted all of my usual memes.

I continue to enjoy my brief blog visiting. I visited 25+ blogs again last week.
My shout out this week goes to Gathering Books, who highlights children's books in an interesting fashion.
Thank you to all the nice people who visit me - Sorry I failed to click the allow comment button last week.

These were last week's posts:

• Sunday Post March 5, 2017/It's Monday! What are You Reading? Plus Mailbox Monday March 6, 2017.

• ABJ- Audio Book Review: Alliance by S. K. Dunstall; Sci Fi, Space Military; my rating 4.5.

• Martha's Bookshelf***Friday Pick Giveaway March 10, 2017. Open Worldwide. Ending 3/16/2017.

• MBS February 2017 Reading Wrap-Up.

• Sharing Beyond Books #294 Comment Giveaway March 11, 2017. Open Worldwide. Ending 3/18/2017.

• Sunday Words of Encouragement March 12, 2017.

Finished Reading:
1. eBook (Great Escapes)

Elementary, She Read: A Sherlock Holmes Bookshop Mystery
by Vicki Delany
I enjoyed this nice cozy mystery.
Tour review to post 3/14.
Click on book title for full description.

2. Print

How Good Is Good Enough?
by Andy Stanley
Our church has these available to share.
I wanted to read it and put one at my office.
Surely there's more than one way to get to heaven? Bestselling author Andy Stanley addresses this popular belief held even among Christians. But believing that all good people go to heaven raises major problems, Stanley reveals. Is goodness not rewarded, then? Is Christianity not fair? Maybe not, he says. Readers will find out why Jesus taught that goodness is not even a requirement to enter heaven - and why Christianity is beyond fair. Andy Stanley leads believers and skeptics alike to a grateful awareness of God's enormous grace and mercy.
Good People Go to Heaven...Don’t They?
Sure they do. It only makes sense.
Actually, it doesn’t really make any sense at all. Smart, educated, accomplished men and women everywhere are banking their eternities on a theory that doesn’t hold water. Chances are, you’ve never really thought it through. But you owe it to yourself to do so.
Find out now what’s wrong with the most popular theory about heaven—and what it really takes to get there.

Currently reading:
1. eBook/Kindle (Publisher)

Eric Olafson: Space Pirate
(Eric Olafson Series)
by Vanessa Ravencroft
I am halfway through this very entertaining adventure!
Received from Inkitt; review to post on 3/15/17.
It's the year 5019, and the Milky Way Galaxy is teeming with exotic species. The majority of the known civilizations have formed a multi-cultural mega organization called the United Stars of Galaxies.
This Union is protected by the brave men and women of the United Stars Space fleet against external threats.
Eric Olafson, born and raised under harsh conditions of the traditional and inward looking society of Nilfeheim, left his planet to fulfill his dreams of becoming a Starship captain.
When Eric gets kidnaped by an unknown organization and brought to Sin 4, a lawless Planet deep in free space, he slowly starts to discover his central role in an ancient conflict of cosmic proportions.

2. Audio (iRead Book Tours)

A Fine Year for Murder: A Thorny Rose Mystery, Book 2
Written by: Lauren Carr
Narrated by: C.J. McAllister
I am half way through this and enjoying it. My review will post on 3/16.
Click on book title for full description.

3. eBook/Kindle (Partners in Crime)

Cat in the Flock (Dreamslippers Book 1)
by Lisa Brunette
This sounds like a fun mystery read. 
I received this from Partners in Crime for tour review 3/21/17.
A sexy murder-mystery with a spiritual edge.
For most people, dreams are a way to escape reality. But for Cat McCormick, they're a way to get closer to the truth. Cat can 'slip' into other people's dreams.
After graduating college with a degree in criminal justice but little in the way of real-life experience, Cat moves from the Midwest to Seattle to apprentice with her Granny Grace, who shares the ability. Granny uses dreamslipping as a private investigator, and Cat plans to follow in her footsteps.
But forced to take work as a security guard, Cat discovers a mother and daughter on the run. Following the clues, she goes undercover in a Midwestern megachurch, where she finds redemption and goodwill amidst repression, hypocrisy, and murder.

4. Audio (ABJ)

The Fifth Sacred Thing
Written by: Starhawk
Narrated by: Maya Lilly
This is interesting although I did interrupt to listen to A Fine Year for Murder.
I received this audio book from the publisher through Audiobook Jukebox
Click on book title for full description.

March 12, 2017 - I am up to date with the One Year Bible; reading along with my husband and others from our church. I hope to take more time this year, staying on the day and listening to the companion commentary online.

I completed two new books and posted one review. I have three reviews scheduled for the coming week, plus maybe one not scheduled.
I have 16 NetGalley Titles again. I still have 10+ author titles in my queue.

We added a YA Fantasy Adventure this week at eTreasure's NetGalley page.
Drinna.

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 (yours truly). Warning: Mailbox Monday can lead to envy, toppling TBR piles and humongous wish lists.

I received two books through NetGalley for review.
I picked up one free Audible but resisted the daily deals.
I didn't purchase anything this week!
I picked up a good number of free kindle titles again. (Note these are in my Amazon library, NOT on my Kindle until I download and transfer them.)

Are your mailbox and TBR piles blooming?

Review Titles

I received one eBook for review:
I received these two books from the publisher through NetGalley:

How to Charm a Beekeeper's
by Candice Patterson
"Weddings are the last thing beekeeper Huck Anderson wants to be associated with, considering his past. So when he inherits a building occupied by a bridal boutique, he aims to evict the failing business and open a sporting goods store."
This sounds like a sweet, fun romance.

All Our Wrong Todays: A Novel
by Elan Mastai

"All Our Wrong Todays is about the versions of ourselves that we shed and grow into over time. It is a story of friendship and family, of unexpected journeys and alternate paths, and of love in its multitude of forms."

I saw this during Mailbox Monday visits and decided to add it to my NetGalley shelf.

Won

NONE

Purchased

I resisted all buying this week!

Free

I got this for Free at Audible:
Outlander
Written by: Diana Gabaldon
Narrated by: Davina Porter
Length: 32 hrs and 36 mins

I added 56 free Kindle titles to my library this week. Titles found linked through Bookbub, Bookfun, Ereader News Today, Free Par-tay, Ignite Your Book, Inspired Reads, Pixel of Ink or Kindle ebooks.

Sunday's Words of Encouragement March 12, 2017

We had an elder brother (age 92), the father-in-law of our Sunday School teacher, share a good message with us today. I’ll save that for another morning.

We had a wonderful time of praise and worship. Then our Pastor began the Easter Sermon Series titled: DNA - Who We Are?

Scientists have been able to study the DNA coding that makes up each species and unique individuals within each species. DNA is defined as: a molecule that carries the genetic instructions used in growth, development, functioning and reproduction. Just imagine: the God who created the universe inscribed each individual’s characteristics on a tiny molecule.

We are all flawed human beings – flawed as far as following God’s instructions. Some people may blame their traits and limitations on their DNA. Although the World teaches independence God requires surrender or dependence on Him to truly survive (into eternity) and serve Him while in the earthly realm. When we make the choice to surrender, generational curses can be severed.

What makes up the church? Each person brings our unique experiences and DNA, complete with flaws, to the church setting. Just think of children who rebel and lie at early age – this is part of the broken nature – the sinful nature – of man. If we look at the very beginning of the Bible, we see that man is incapable of being “good enough”. We need to be saved; we need a savior. When we surrender and accept Christ as our Savior, to forgive our sins, He pushes the reset button that allows us to break free of our past. It doesn’t mean there aren’t consequences to our past behaviors but it means He provides a way, a new path.

Our Heavenly Father is the one who has authority (see Acts 1:6-8). Jesus told His disciples, and therefore current disciples (members of the church body), what our mission is. Matthew 28:18-20. The Church, being each member or person, is instructed to go (to the whole world that is lost and dying) and share the Gospel. Sometimes we do other ‘good’ things but not what we were instructed to do.

THE POINT: The church exists to win the world to Christ through the Gospel of Jesus Christ.

Your testimony, combined with the power of the Holy Spirit, is all you need; it is enough even without special training. We each can – and are instructed to – share with everyone we have contact with. In a world full of bad news, let us share the Good News.

The Gospel, when carried by disciples of Jesus, is POWERFUL. It breaks through all barriers – social, racial, economic, religious, and political. It breaks through chains of deception.
Healthy DNA will build and reproduce healthy DNA.
We must be careful not to be Christian isolationists by associating only with other Christians. Fellowship is a wonderful thing, but we are only reaching the lost if we are walking and talking to unbelievers.

The Gospel must be central to our purpose and the church purpose. What can we do? Share with each person, wherever we encounter them. “Let me tell you a story....” Advance the gospel in our community and world.

We, as the church, are to be ready to take the message with our own experiences. Pray for opportunities to share and build relationships. Without the Gospel, we have nothing – no salvation and no hope.

I haven't shared this song for a number of years but it is worth sharing again!

The Mission

Verses for Today:
Acts 1:6-8 (NLT)
6So when the apostles were with Jesus, they kept asking him, “Lord, has the time come for you to free Israel and restore our kingdom?”
7He replied, “The Father alone has the authority to set those dates and times, and they are not for you to know. 8But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes upon you. And you will be my witnesses, telling people about me everywhere—in Jerusalem, throughout Judea, in Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.”

Thank you Lord for this additional perspective: "The one thing you can do to kill the Great Commission is make it all about you. The Great Commission is God’s work for his glory; we’re just the instruments in the hands of the Savior."

Lord - Help me pray for and reach out to the lost each and EVERY day.

Sharing Beyond Books #294 Comment Giveaway March 11, 2017

Hello again and Welcome to Sharing Beyond Books, SBB!

Thanks to everyone who commented last week.

Eleven of us don't have too much trouble moving on and finding another good read. Four have had some difficulty after a really good book not to compare it to the one before or miss a good series. A couple suggested taking a bit of a break in that event. Miki had a hard time picking up another book after having to read a book at school that she didn't like, but she doesn't have a problem after finishing books she does like.

~~~~~

The Winner from SBB #293 comments is: #1 Fredamans who can make a GC choice if international or book choice from the Updated **Old (and soon to be updated) ARC/Review titles or (recently updated) Love titles - all linked near the end of the post.

**NOTE: I hadn't realized I had not updated the book choices in quite a while. Also - I found a box of books under our clerk's desk that haven't been mailed out so I apologize that there are many late. I will get those out this week. I think there may have been one or two overlaps because I hadn't crossed off the list. I may just purchase the books to mail or I'll email the winners to see if they want a new choice. AND since I see that the list choices are dwindling I will add some new choices this coming week. I FORGOT THAT TASK TODAY SO I WILL WORK ON IT THIS COMING WEEK. Thanks for being patient with me!
Please let me know your choice by completing the WINNER FORM.

WEEK #294

(One Question.)

Elizabeth asks: After you read a book, do you typically keep it on your bookshelves or pass it along to friends??

(I thought this followed well on last week's questions - sort of.) As any of you who have followed my blog for a bit know, I tend to gift my print books once I read them. I also print review books and audios after a time - minimum six months. I do have a few favorite authors that I had collected over the past. I am not doing that so much now since so many titles are available on Kindle. But I still have a good dozen collections that I haven't started giving away yet. :-)

Image found at Pinterest.

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.

Your turn to share: Marjorie asks: After I read Pretty Girls by Karen Slaughter and Those Girls by Chevy Stevens, I found it hard to get into reading another book that held my interest. Have you ever had this happen to you??

SBB Comment Winners can choose a selection from the Valentine and "Love" books or the February 2015 Newly Updated ARC/Review List. 2-4-17: I FINALLY have some new "Love" and Christmas titles! I hope to get the picture posted later this week.

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 March 18, 2017 at 5 PM central.

MBS February 2017 Reading Wrap-Up

MBS 2017 Reading List February 2017

Code for the list is:
A = Audible; ABJ = Audiobook Jukebox; ABB = Audiobook Boom
e = eBook; eA = eBook from Author; eT = eBook from Tour
NG = NetGalley
P = Print; PT = Print from Tour
LBC = Ladies Book Club
TBR = From the TBR shelves prior to 2017

5 Stars = Linesman

1. AA- Audible Book Review: Audible Review: It Takes a Thief to Catch a Sunrise by Rob J. Hayes; Fantasy, Steampunk, Romance; my rating 4.5.
2. NGTBR- Book Review: Dawn Study (Study Series) by Maria V. Snyder; Fantasty, Military Thriller; my rating 4.25.
3. NGTBR- Book Review: From London with Love: Rebellious Brides by Diana Quincy; Historical Romance; my rating 4.25.
4. ATBR- Audible Book Review: Linesman by S. K. Dunstall; Sci Fi, Space Military; my rating 5.0.
5. NGTBR- Book Review: Someone to Hold (A Westcott Novel) by Mary Balogh; Historical Romance; my rating 4.5.
6. AV- Audio Book Review: The Soldier's Secret by Heather Osborne; Historical Romance, Civil War; my rating 4.25.
7. NGTBR- Book Review: The Blue Hour by Isabelle Simler; Children, Nature; my rating 4.75.
8. AeStories- Audio Review: The Detainee by Peter Liney; Sci Fi, Dystopian; my rating 4.25.
9. eTBR- Book Review: Glenfiddich Inn by Alan Geik; Historical Fiction; my rating 4.0.
10. ABJ- Audio Book Review: Alliance by S. K. Dunstall; Sci Fi, Space Military; my rating 4.5. 
Read with Granddaughters:
11. Disney The Jungle Book
12. Disney The Lion King
13. Tiggerific Tigger Board Book 
14. Finding Nemo 
15. The Bear's Picnic 

Total read = 15; TBR = 6; New Authors = 6
Audio/Audible = 5
eBook = 1 (1 author request)
NetGalley = 4
Print = 5
Genres:
    3 Sci Fi; 3 Historical Romance; 2 Fantasy; 1 Historical Fiction; 6 Children