Martha's Bookshelf***Friday Pick Giveaway March 8, 2019

Happy Friday! Achk! Third month of the year already!

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 1, 2019 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. One title was blocked but won through the block.
Becky gets the Susan Wiggs Pair.

CONGRATULATIONS
to Random.org picked Winners from March 1, 2019 Pick:
SueF gets Holiday in Death (through the block).
and
Alina 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.}

I think Book Madness is Beautiful!
Image found at Hackettstown High School Library.

New Book Group #84 December 15, 2018
Here are some Christmas titles to pick from.

One PAIR:
Susan Wiggs: Snowfall and Fireside
SINGLES:
A Family for Thanksgiving
Thanksgiving by Janet Evanovich
On this Holy Night
A Rancher for Christmas
Christmas Haven
Christmas Brides Anthology
Holiday in Death
Christmas Homecoming
Together by Christmas Anthology
The Christmas Date
The Christmas Promise (hardback)
A Blue and Grey Christmas (hardback)
The Snow Angel (CD Audiobook)
King Harold's Snow Job


New Book Group #83 November 30, 2018

(Starting bottom left and continuing up then down)
PAIRS:
Kat Martin: Bold Angel and Devil's Prize
Elizabeth Lowell: Death Is Forever and Running Scared
SINGLE
It Takes a Hero by Elizabeth Boyle
Two Alone by Sandra Brown
'Tween a Devil and his hard Place by Sam Cheever
Seductive Secrets by Lynne Connolly
Seven Up by Janet Evanovich - Audio Cassettes
A Good Walk Spoiled by John Feinstein Audio Cassettes
Highland Guardian by Melissa Mayhue
Hot Pursuit by Christinea Skye
Sisters & Secrets Anthology
Reader's Digest Condensed Books - each hardback
Cold Harbour and The Courtship of Peggy McCoy
The Things We Do for Love, Three Weeks With My Brother, The Murder Artist and Night Train to Lisbon
Follow the Stars Home, Hunting Badger, The Quiet Game and Second Wind

New Book Group #82 November 9, 2018

Pairs:
Stella Cameron: French Quarter and Key West
Jude Deveraux: Mulberry Tree and Wild Orchids
SINGLES:
Magic Strikes by Ilona Andrews
Unmasked Anthology - Jennifer Blake, Janet Dailey and Elizabeth Gage
Plum Lovin' by Janet Evanovich
Killing Time by Linda Howard
The Finer Things by Brenda Joyce
Wicked Promise by Kat Martin
Countess of Scandal by Laurel McKee
The Leopard's Woman by Linda Lael Miller and White Wolf by Lindsay McKenna
Eagle and the Dove by Victoria Morrow
To Love Again by Bertrice Small
The Wedding Night by Barbara Dawson Smith
Primal Obsession by Susan Vaughn

New Book Group #81 August 17, 2018

There are three audios at the top:
Kisscut is Cassettes
SINGLES

Best Laid Plans
Darkness Tell Us
Cooking More Deadly


New Book Group #80 August 17, 2018

Note: The Final Judgment and
The Book of Fate are Audio Cassettes
PAIRS
Fern Michaels and James Patterson
SINGLES:
Summer’s Moon
The Green Trap
End Game
Night School
The Red Tent
The Final Judgment Audio Cassettes
Secrets of Paris
Linda Goodnight
Irish Charmers, the Mighty Quinns
Firebird
No Getting Over a Cowboy
The Book of Fate Audio Cassettes


New Book Group #79 July 13, 2018
I found this box of books buried under some other boxes.

The Vanishing Act of Esme Lenox by Maggie O’Farrell
P.S. by Helen Schulman
Her Sexiest Surprise by Dawn Atkins (personally autographed)
The Maverick Preacher by Victoria Bylin (personally autographed)
The Broken Window by Jeffery Deaver
The Doctor’s Forever Family by Marie Ferrarella
Dakota Child by Linda Ford
Branded by the Sheriff by Delores Fossen
The Italian’s Inexperienced Mistress
Calling the Shots by Ellen Hartman
Promises, Promises by Amber Miller
This Time for Keeps by Jenna Mills
Rhapsody in Time by Judith O’Brien
A Daughter’s Legacy by Virginia Smith
Another Man’s Baby by Kay Stockham
The Cowboy’s Christmas Miracle by RaeAnne Thayne


New Book Group #78 April 27, 2018

PAIRS
Johanna Lindsey Pair
Judith Krentz Pair
SINGLES
Midnight Rainbow
Blackberry Bush
Breaking Point
A Tangled Affair
To Wicked to Love
Betrayed
My Dark Prince
Roses are Red Audio Cassettes
Brothers of Gwynedd
Fatal Defect
Bones of the Sea and Other Stories
By a Spider's Thread



New Book Group #77 February 16, 2018- All gone

New Book Group #76 November 3, 2017
13 books remain of the original 37:

I finally Have them Listed!
Boots & Booties by Kristine Rolofson
Saucer the Conquest by Stephen Coonts
Echo Burning by Lee Child
The Scorpion Seducer by Bonnie Vanak
Hell On Earth by David L. Porter
Tempted All Night by Liz Carlyle
Day of the Dead by J.A. Jance
White Night by Jim Butcher
Five Gold Rings Anthology Constance O’Banyon and three others
Riders of the Purple Sage by Zane Grey
The Glimpses of the Moon by Edith Wharton
Depraved Heart by Patricia Cornwell
Crisscross by Harmon Henkin
Wizard’s Daughter by Catherine Coulter
Pearl Beyond Price by Claire Delacroix
Maelstrom by Anne McCaffrey
The Wedding by Nicholas Sparks
The Wicked Wyckerly by Patricia Rice
Inhuman Condition by Clive Barker
Night Whispers by Judith McNaught
101 Commonsense Rules for the Office by John R. Brinkerhoff

This shelf of 35 books are what is left from Groups #1 (11/27/09) through Group #75 September 29, 2017

(Title list reads left at bottom to right at top - 14 titles.)
Rehabilitation
Secret Blessing
Named of the Dragon
Daring
Aunt Erma's Cope Book
JoAnn Ross: Confessions
The Eye of the World by Robert Jordan
The New Birth Order Book by Dr. Kevin Leman
A Kiss Before Dawn by Kimberly Logan
The Fireman’s Fair by Josephine Humphreys (Hardcover)
Bound by Destiny by Rayka Mennen
Rainbow Mars by Larry Niven
There Was A Little Girl by Ed McBain (Audio Cassettes)
Love's Brazen Fire by Betina Krahn 

(Title list reads left at bottom to right at top - 21 titles.)
Plan of Attack by Dan Brown
(*Three more very old books from my Gothics box.)
*The Man in the Garden by Paule Mason (1969 - yellowed)
Fire Dancer by Ann Maxwell
*Four books are very old; pulled from a box of gothic novels I found.
*Maggie – Her Marriage by Taylor Caldwell (1953 very old, yellowed pages, some stain damage doesn't effect reading)
First Things First by Stephen R. Covey- Audio Cassette
Trilogy Of Mysteries Audio Book Shadow Prey, There Was A Little Girl, Smokescreen Audio Cassettes (NOT CDs)
Raintree Haunted by Linda Winstead Jones (spine creases)
The Shadowing by Joan Overfield
The Sweetheart Dance by Patti Ann Colt
BOX 4 2015 (reboxed from Boxes 47-53)
Undateable by Ellen Rakieten & Anne Coyle
Jezebel by Katherine Sutcliff
The Hidden Truth of Cytech's Randall Forty by Vickie Kennedy
Breakfast in Bed by Sandra Brown - Audio Cassette Tapes (link is for mass media version)
BOX 3 2015 (reboxed from Boxes 39- 47)
Shetland Summer by Janet Lynnford
BOX 2 2015 (reboxed from Boxes 24- 38)
The Trailsman: Texas Lead Slingers by Jon Sharpe
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
An Honorable Man by Rosemary Rogers (spine creases)
The Willful Widow by Valerie King (spine wear)
Foundation (Foundation Novels) by Isaac Asimov
BOX #1 2015 (reboxed from Boxes 1- 23)
Ghost Writer (Shivers #3) by M.D. Spenser
Alien Chronicles - The Crimson Claw by Deborah Chester

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 EIGHT years I have posted 82 groups of 16 plus an additional 21 totaling 1,333 books to find new homes! (as of November 9, 2018).

I am happy to say that so far about 1,228+ books have found new homes through this feature! YAY. [A year or so ago I posted I had reached 2000 books given away. As I calculated the numbers 11/2/17 I realized that had to be an error. I realized I went from 1098 to 2001 instead of 1101. Guess I was tired; sorry for the error.] 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 Book Review:Blackmoore by Julianne Dondalson

This is a heart wrenching romance.
Blackmoore
By: Julianne Donaldson
Narrated by: Cassandra Campbell

Length: 9 hrs and 47 mins
Unabridged Audiobook
Release date: 09-18-13
Language: English
Publisher: Shadow Mountain
Genre: Historical Regency, Romance
My Rating: 4.25 of 5.0 Overall, Story 4.25; Narration 4.25.

Publisher's Summary
Kate Worthington knows her heart and she knows she will never to marry. Her plan is to travel to India instead - if only to find peace for her restless spirit and to escape the family she abhors. But Kate’s meddlesome mother has other plans. She makes a bargain with Kate: India, yes, but only after Kate has secured - and rejected - three marriage proposals.
Kate journeys to the stately manor of Blackmoore determined to fulfill her end of the bargain sooner rather than later and enlists the help of her dearest childhood friend, Henry Delafield. But when it comes to matters of love, bargains are meaningless and plans are changeable. There on the wild lands of Blackmoore, Kate must face the truth that has kept her heart captive. Will the proposal she is determined to reject actually be the one thing that will set her heart free?
Set in Northern England in 1820, Blackmoore is a regency romance that tells the story of a young woman struggling to learn how to follow her heart.
©2013 Julianne Clawson Donaldson (P)2013 Shadow Mountain.

Review:
Kate made a decision at age 14 that she would never marry. Instead, she plans to travel, with her restless spirit and her aunt, to India. She particularly wants to get away for her toxic household where her father ignores the family and her mother flirts with any man, young or old, and ties to teach her daughters to do the same, and to trap an appropriate husband.

Before Kate goes to India she wants to visit Blackmoore, the estate of her childhood neighbor and friend, Henry Delafield. She has wanted to visit the estate for years, but their mothers despise each other. Henry and Kate were only able to spend time together because Kate was best friends with Henry’s awkward sister. But Lady Delafield had made it very clear that Henry will never marry Kate. In fact, Henry has an arranged fiancé waiting for him.

Kate finally makes a desperate bargain with her mother. She must receive and reject three proposals to get the right to go to India. Plus one other stipulation that Kate doesn’t think through. Kate convinces her mother to allow her to make the visit to Blackmoore with the expectation there will be available matches to meet at the house party.

Kate arrives at Blackmoore to find that Henry’s future bride is there with his mother. The young woman is beautiful, refined, and already preparing to take her place as the mistress of the manor. And Lady Delafield is far from pleased that Henry invited Kate.

Henry continues to seek time to walk and talk with Kate in between the scheduled dinners and tête-à-têtes with his intended. When her first few attempts to engage the interest of other men are unsuccessful, Kate comes up with another plan. It becomes clear she may succeed but at the cost of her heart.

It was hard to like Kate at first as she seemed rather self-absorbed and cold. Only further into the story does it become clear the horrible household she has had to endure and the sacrifice she has determined to make for the one she loves. Henry is a wonderful, proper young gentleman. I appreciated that this contained a lovely romance with no need for sexual innuendos. The undercurrent of love builds even as the conflict for Kate and Henry builds. I have no idea why this is dubbed ‘a Proper romance.” It is heart wrenching to get to the point where they recognize their love. I recommend this to readers who enjoy the struggles of a thwarted romance.

Audio Notes: Cassandra Campbell does a beautiful job with the narration. She manages to put the right edge to the characters to help bring the story more intensity. I am glad I listened to this.

Source: December 2016 Audible sale. This qualifies for 2019TBR and 2019Audiobook Goals.

#NetGalley Book Review: Ladies of Intrigue: 3 Tales of 19th-Century Romance with a Dash of Mystery by Michelle Griep

These are lovely - I really like this author.

Ladies of Intrigue: 3 Tales of 19th-Century Romance with a Dash of Mystery
by Michelle Griep

File Size: 1038 KB
Print Length: 288 pages
Publisher: Barbour Books (February 1, 2019)
ASIN: B07HYM6HQ6
Genre: Christian Romance, Historical Romance
My Rating 4.75 of 5.0

3 Page-Turners Under One Cover from Reader Favorite Michelle Griep!
Can truth and love prevail when no one is as they appear?
The Gentleman Smuggler’s Lady
Cornish Coast, 1815
When a prim and proper governess returns to England from abroad, she expects to comfort her dying father—not fall in love with a smuggler. Will Helen Fletcher keep Isaac Seaton’s unusual secret?
The Doctor’s Woman (A Carol Award Winner!)
Dakota Territory, 1862
Emmy Nelson, daughter of a missionary doctor, and Dr. James Clark, city doctor aspiring to teach, find themselves working side by side at Fort Snelling during the Dakota Uprising. That is when the real clash of ideals begins.
A House of Secrets
St. Paul, Minnesota, 1890
Ladies Aide Chairman, Amanda Carston resolves to clean up St. Paul’s ramshackle housing, starting with the worst of the worst: a “haunted” house that’s secretly owned by her beau—a home that’s his only means of helping brothel girls escape from the hands of the city’s most infamous madam.

Review:
The Gentleman Smuggler’s Lady
Helen is a Pastor’s daughter who has traveled to help her ill father. As she arrives in his community she is kidnapped by a local smuggler. Inadvertently she sees the face of the man who saves her. She is soon surprised to find out his identity. She has a dilemma as she is reluctant to turn in the man who has saved her and cared for her father so caringly.

Isaac has bent his own rules in the name of revenge. The staunch faith of Helen makes him question his motives and look for alternatives. Will he be able to make Helen see him as a reliable person rather than a scoundrel?

I fully loved both of these characters and how the story plays out. There is risk with a lascivious authority not only stalking the smuggler but also inappropriately pursuing Helen and/or Isaac’s single sister. The plot keeps it moving quickly while I was rooting for this couple to get together. I especially loved Helen’s reliance on God and willingness to look for the best in others. She also wasn’t afraid to speak her mind to rebuke inappropriate behavior. My rating 4.75.

The Doctor’s Woman
Emmy is the daughter of a missionary doctor who has recently died. She is preparing to leave the wilderness to return to her society Aunt when she is asked to help at the Fort Snelling while they await the new doctor. Emmy is about to tend a man with a seriously crushed leg when Dr. James Clark arrives. Dr. Clark is a city doctor seeking a coveted position at Harvard. To gain his recommendation he has been directed to show he is able to survive a tour of service in the wilds of the West.

Dr. Clark and Emmy meet with sparks flying. He asks her to stay to help him and the commander makes him responsible for her welfare in the rough environment. He is still set on strict old fashion doctoring techniques while Emmy tries to encourage using some natural remedies learned from the Indians – even those Indians who killed her fiancé. The doctor gains respect for Emmy’s dedication although her independence frustrates him. But when it comes time for him to return to the East will he be willing to part from Emmy?

These are two more engaging characters and another story with plenty of conflict and moments of danger. The description of the western hardships is well done. Their struggles through the circumstances and the decisions they face provide inspiring encouragement. My rating 5.0.

A House of Secrets
Young Amanda has secured the chairmanship of the Ladies Aide Society which she hopes will impress her standoff father. Amanda wants to obtain the title to a dilapidated house to turn it into a safe place for educating street children. A haughty Society member puts Amanda on a deadline to get the title or lose on her first project.

Amanda seeks the help of her fiancé, the city Attorney to find the owner of the land. He claims he is too busy with other issues to help right now but really he is hiding his involvement with the property. He has been using the house to help brothel girls escape from the hands of the city’s most infamous madam. He doesn’t want to let Amanda know his connection to the house, nor certain family secrets.

A powerful business man is thwarting Joseph’s efforts to close down the local brothel. The corrupt man is quick to comfort Amanda when she is devastated to learn of Joseph’s betrayal. Just as matters come to a head a life-threatening accident pushes Joseph to face his fears and Amanda to address her impulsive rejection.

I liked the interesting brothel and society history in this story. The story felt a little rushed and didn’t pull me in as much as the first two. Still, it was entertaining, and I appreciated the messages regarding the harm of secrets in a personal relationship. My rating 4.5.

I enjoyed a previous historical romance by this author, The Captive Heart. I highly recommend this author and this story to readers who like Christian and historical romance with real life danger and conflict.

Source: 2019 NetGalley. This qualifies for 2019TBR, 2019NetGalley and 2019 Alphabet goals.

Sunday Post March 3, 2019/It's Monday! What are You Reading? Plus Mailbox Monday March 4, 2019

I am linking with Sunday Post at Caffeinated Book Reviewer.

It's Monday! What Are You Reading now at The Book Date (at Wordpress).

What Are You Reading, is where we gather to share what we have read this past week and what we plan to read this week. It is a great way to network with other bloggers, see some wonderful blogs, and put new titles on your reading list.

This was another mostly quiet week.
I continue to work on files and consult in office while helping with real estate closings for the title office.
The structural engineer has provided another engineer and architect who might be able to get to my project sooner than end of April. I will be in touch on Monday.
Hubby got a weaker report this week on his lungs. But they have started him on rehab to help rebuild his strength.
We've had some rain this week and tornado warnings today. The wind was a bit wild but passed us.

My reading was good as I wrapped up the February romance theme. I finished 4 books: two audiobooks and two ebooks. I posted three reviews and my usual memes.

I only got to 22 blogs early last week.
Shout Out this week to The Book Smugglers "... a blog dedicated to speculative and genre fiction for all ages."
Thank you to all the nice people who visit me.

These were last week's posts:

• Sunday Post February 24, 2019/It's Monday! What are You Reading? Plus Mailbox Monday February 25, 2019.

• NG2018- #NetGalley Book Review: An Unexpected Redemption by Emily Hamsher; Christian, Medieval, Romance; My Rating: 4.75 of 5.0.

• ebTBR- Book Review: A Romantic Ghost Story by Jason W. Chan; Ghost, Paranormal, Romance; My Rating: 3.5 of 5.0.

• Martha's Bookshelf***Friday Pick Giveaway March 1, 2019. Open Worldwide. Ending 3/7/2019.

• ATBR- Audible Book Review: Hello Love by Karen McQuestion; Sweet Romance; My Rating: 4.0 of 5.0 Overall; 3.75 Story; 4.25 Narration.

• MBS February 2019 Reading List Wrap Up.

• Sunday Words of Encouragement March 3, 2019.

Finished Reading:
1. eBook/Kindle (NG2019)

Ladies of Intrigue: 3 Tales of 19th-Century Romance with a Dash of Mystery
by Michelle Griep
These are lovely - I really like this author.
Source: 2019 NetGalley.
Click on book title for full description.

2. Audiobooks/Smartphone (ATBR)

Blackmoore
By: Julianne Donaldson
Narrated by: Cassandra Campbell
A heartwrenching romance.
Source: December 2016 Audible sale.
Click on book title for full description.

3. Audible/Smartphone (ATBR)

Escape from Bythos
By: Phil Tucker
Narrated by: Noah Michael Levine
Series: Chronicles of the Black Gate, Book 0.5
Length: 1 hr and 31 mins
I am going to start a long audio next so I thought I'd pull a quick one first.
This is engaging - I've put the first full book on my Wish List.
Source: Audible 2019 Whisper Sync purchase.
Publisher's Summary
While listed as book 6, Escape from Bythos is actually the prequel novella to the series and can be enjoyed at any point.
How did Asho end up as Lord Kyferin's squire?
Escape from Bythos leads seamlessly into the novel The Path of Flames, detailing how Asho acquired his freedom against all odds and escaped the slave city of Bythos.
All Ennoian knights must sacrifice a single year of their lives to garrison the subterranean city of Bythos. Known as their Black Year, it is a time both loathed and dreaded. Lord Kyferin, the infamous leader of the Black Wolves, is down in the depths with six of his knights. Biding his time. Whoring. Dreaming of bloody invasions he'll launch when he is free to return to Ennoia.
Then a Bythian slave brings word of dangerous prey. A legendary monster. A cavekiller. Kyferin chooses to mount a hunt, taking a fraction of the men needed so as to increase his glory. This cavekiller, however, is different. More lethal. Ferocious. And the Bythian slave that Kyferin brings as a guide is none other than Asho's father....
©2016 Phil Tucker (P)2018 Audible, Inc.

4. eBook/Kindle (NG2019)

The PVC Pipe Book
by Chris Peterson
This has many great projects. 
I wish my Hubby was able to work on these;
maybe my son or s-i-l could.
Source: 2019 NetGalley.
Put that spare PVC pipe to work with more than 50 inventive, step-by-step projects that yield tough and durable storage, furniture, gardening, toys, and much more, with The PVC Pipe Book.
With a few simple fittings, common home-improvement-store PVC pipe can be treated much like building blocks. Learn to engineer it in new ways for DIY projects that prove useful indoors and outside.
Whether you're a homeowner, gardener, homesteader, prepper, or just a parent looking for some new toy ideas, the projects in The PVC Pipe Book give you plenty of options. Step-by-step instructions, parts lists, and photographs of completed projects make sure you will have fun and love the results of your work.
Projects range from simple creations like chicken feeders and waterers, to much more complex builds like a rolling workshop table.
Other projects include:
Practical creations include a step-stool, toy bin, safety gate, and gardening caddy
Fun, fanciful ideas include a rocket launcher, water table, even soccer goals
Homestead projects include a pet washer, chicken feeder, birdhouse, and hanging herb garden
For anyone who needs some insight and a few tips on working with PVC, Peterson covers all the basics, as well as finishing techniques.

Currently Reading:
1. Print(PTBR-LBC)

A Bride Most Begrudging
by Deeanne Gist
I picked these up on sale last year for Ladies book club. We will discuss this Saturday 3/9/19.
Source: Christianbook.com.
When Lady Constance Morrow finds herself kidnapped and bound for the American colonies, she's sure she'll find a reasonable man who'll believe her story and send her back to England. Instead, she's "bought" by farmer Drew O'Connor. How long will it take before this marriage of convenience becomes very inconvenient for both of them? 320 pages, softcover from Bethany.

2. Audible/Smartphone (Author)

Age of Expansion: A Kurtherian Gambit Series
Ghost Squadron Boxed Set, Books 1-4
By: Sarah Noffke, Michael Anderle
Narrated by: Chris Abernathy
Length: 26 hrs and 6 mins
I have been wanting to try this Series (Michael Anderle) - even though it is over 21 books in.
I was very happy when the Sarah Noffke offered the box set ... 
on audio no less!
Source: 2019 Audible credit from Author.
Publisher's Summary
After 10 years of wandering the outer rim of the galaxy, Eddie Teach is a man without a purpose. He was one of the toughest pilots in the Federation, but now he's just a regular guy, getting into bar fights and making a difference wherever he can. It's not the same as flying a ship and saving colonies, but it'll have to do.
That is, until General Lance Reynolds tracks Eddie down and offers him a job. There are bad people out there, plotting terrible things, killing innocent people, and destroying entire colonies.
©2018 Sarah Noffke, Michael Anderle (P)2019 LMBPN

3. eBook/Kindle (Author)

Indian Paintbrush (Carson Chronicles Book 3)
by John A. Heldt
I just started this but had to pause for my LBC book.
Source: 12/18 Author review request.
Click on book title for full description.

March 3, 2019 - I am staying up to date with the One Year Bible plan reading through You Version App.
I completed a 3 day reading plan: Being Loved, And Loving Others
I'll be picking another study this week.
[You can check out audio of the One Year Bible Plan on the companion commentary online.]

I completed four books and posted three reviews. That puts me current with 4 reviews to post.
I continue to slowly add reviews to NetGalley, Goodreads, Amazon and Audible. I still have older ones to catch up on.
My NetGalley shelf is still at 11 unread from November to date plus 4 old titles (2012!) that I might get read this year. I still have three remaining author ebook titles in queue and one new audio author title. 
Still many through InstaFreebie and many new author requests I haven't replied to.

Welcome to Mailbox Monday.

Mailbox Monday is a gathering place for readers to share the books that came into their house last week and explore great book blogs. This Meme started with Marcia at A Girl and Her Books (fka The Printed Page) and after a tour of hosts has returned to its permanent home at Mailbox Monday. Thanks to the ladies sharing hosting duties: 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 added two audio review titles from authors.
I picked up two audio titles with my Audiobooks.com credit.
I only picked up 26 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

2/25/2019 I received this audiobook from the author:
Age of Expansion: A Kurtherian Gambit Series
Ghost Squadron Boxed Set, Books 1-4
By: Sarah Noffke, Michael Anderle
Narrated by: Chris Abernathy
Length: 26 hrs and 6 mins
I am excited to have a chance to listen to this! See more of the description under Currently Reading above.


3/3/2019 I received this from the author for review:
The Double-A Western Detective Agency
A Holmes on the Range Mystery
By: Steve Hockensmith
Narrated by: John McLain
Length: 8 hrs and 46 mins
Release date: 02-18-19

Won

NONE

Purchased

I picked up TWO FOR ONE Fairy Tale Fantasies with my February Audiobooks.com credit:
3/1/19
Hunted
By Meagan Spooner
Narrated by Saskia Maarleveld, Will Damron
Duration: 9 h 20 min



Spindle Fire
By Lexa Hillyer
Narrated by Fiona Hardingham
Duration: 8 h 26 min

Free

I only added 26 free titles to my Kindle library. I didn't spend much time adding free books again 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 Words of Encouragement March 3, 3019

Our Sunday School teacher was out with his wife, celebrating their anniversary. Our substitute teacher shared a video by Anne Graham Lotz on The Daniel Prayer. Based on Daniel 9 she teaches that Daniel prayed with confidence, contrition and clarity.

Our Church message was shared by one of our AG Missionaries, “J”. He and his family are missionaries to Penasia. He prayed that we would open our hearts to “shock me now, not later”.
He prays that God will help him live every day for God’s Glory.

Our guest was born in American with many blessings. J had a friend from a country in Asia and one day as they traveled a mountain road his friend noted that a few miles away is a village who has never seen a foreigner; has never heard of Jesus. And another village a few miles further, and then another. When faced with people in a country not free to learn of God, much less worship, he asked: What can we do to reach those who haven't heard the gospel?

The first time J went home with his friend, he was the first foreigner to ever visit that village. It is estimated there are 240 million “unreached” people in Penasia. Of seventeen thousand people groups on earth, seven groups are deemed unreached as less than 2 percent have access to the Gospel of Christ. That results in 40 percent of people on Earth being unreached.

Unreached are different than “the lost”. A man floundering in a current 50 feet off shore is lost unless those who can see him reach out to rescue him. He has ready access to help. A man who fell off a cruise ship in middle of ocean has no one to help him. He has no hope and can only be rescued if someone is specifically sent to rescue him.

God and Jesus send their messengers to reach every tribe, every nation.
The majority of the people in Penasia will never hear of Jesus. They are isolated by lack of access, government restrictions and the religion of Buddhism. Because of the upbringing in the religion of Buddhism it takes 6 to 7 years of sharing before a person may accept Christ. The AG goal is to change the map by reaching these unreached. There is Spiritual warfare.
J showed us video of a visit he made to the 2000 year old Shwesandaw Pagoda in Myanmar, formerly Burma. There is a large ornate shrine surrounded by smaller shrines. J was there on during a holy celebration. There were probably 15,000 to 20,000 people, infant to aged. They were there to celebrate their spirits.
The thought of those people never learning about Jesus and the gospel of salvation is enough to bring tears.
Does our passion measure up to their passion for a lie?
God's heart is broken. Is ours?
God sent Abraham, Joseph and Moses to other lands to fulfill His plan. Acts 7.
God has called us to go – some go physically, and some go by sending (supporting) others.
God has called us to share where we are: family, work, community.
God gives us compassionate hearts, balanced with grace to seek and save the unreached as well as the lost.

Here is a song for missions: A New Hallelujah

Verses for Today
Psalm 67:1-2 (NIV)
1 May God be gracious to us and bless us
and make his face shine on us—
2 so that your ways may be known on earth,
your salvation among all nations.

God, I pray that you give me a compassionate heart and help me to live each day for Your Glory!

MBS February 2019 Reading List Wrap Up

MBS 2019 Reading List - FEBRUARY

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 2019
Favorites for February:
5.0: A Bachelor Establishment; The Bird and the Sword
4.75: An Unexpected Redemption; Ladies of Intrigue
4.5: Forgotten God

1. ATBR- Audible Book Review: A Bachelor Establishment by Jodi Taylor; Humor, Historical Romance, Regency Romance; My Rating: 5.0 of 5.0 Overall.
2. NG2018- #NetGalley Book Review: The Last Woman in the Forest by Diane Les Becquets; Mystery, Psychological Thriller; My Rating: 3.75 of 5.0.
3. ATBR- Audiobook Review: Buried Secrets (Men of Valor Series, Book #1) by Irene Hannon; Christian, Mystery, Romantic Suspense; My Rating: 4.0 Overall; Story 4.0; Narration 4.0.
4. ebTBR LBC- Book Review: Forgotten God: Reversing Our Tragic Neglect of the Holy Spirit by Francis Chan; Church Growth, Pneumatology, Theology; My Rating: 4.5 of 5.0.
5. ATBR- Audible Book Review: The Bird and the Sword by Amy Harmon; Fairy Tales, Fantasy, Romance; My Rating: 5.0 of 5.0 Overall.
6. ATBR- Audible Book Review: The Girl with the Make-Believe Husband by Julia Quinn; Historical Romance, Romantic Comedy; My Rating: 4.0 Overall; Story 3.75; Narration 5.0.
7. NG2018- #NetGalley Book Review: Never Let Go (Uncommon Justice Book #1) by Elizabeth Goddard; Christian, Romantic Suspense; My Rating: 4.25 of 5.0.
8. ATBR- Audible Book Review: Gracie’s Touch by S.E. Smith; Romance, Sci Fi, Space Military; My Rating: 3.75 of 5.0 Overall; Story 3.5; Narration 4.5. 
9. NG2018- #NetGalley Book Review: An Unexpected Redemption by Emily Hamsher; Christian, Medieval, Romance; My Rating: 4.75 of 5.0.
10. ebTBR- Book Review: A Romantic Ghost Story by Jason W. Chan; Ghost, Paranormal, Romance; My Rating: 3.5 of 5.0.
11. ATBR- Audible Book Review: Hello Love by Karen McQuestion; Sweet Romance; My Rating: 4.0 of 5.0 Overall; 3.75 Story; 4.25 Narration.
12. NG2018- #NetGalley Book Review: Ladies of Intrigue: 3 Tales of 19th-Century Romance with a Dash of Mystery by Michelle Griep; Christian Romance, Historical Romance; My Rating: 4.75 of 5.0.

Total read = 12; TBR = 11; New Authors = 8
Audio/Audible = 6 (6 TBRs)
eBook = 2 (2 TBRs)
NetGalley = 4 (3 TBRs)
Print = 0

Goal Progress:
• ebTBRs – 2 + 2
• Author title - 1 + 0
• New to me Series - 5 +5
• Continuing for me Series - 3 + 1
• Title with Month in it – 1 + 1
• Winter title – 1;
• Alphabet letters covered – 12 Jan + 3 Feb

Audible Book Review: Hello Love by Karen McQuestion

This is a nice, sweet story with a sweet dog.
Hello Love
By: Karen McQuestion
Narrated by: Dan John Miller

Length: 7 hrs and 22 mins
Unabridged Audiobook
Release date: 09-16-14
Language: English
Publisher: Brilliance Audio
Genre: Sweet Romance
My Rating: 4.0 of 5.0 Overall; 3.75 Story; 4.25 Narration.

Publisher's Summary
From the bestselling author of The Long Way Home comes a charming novel about loss and the faith that restores broken lives.
A year after the death of his wife, Christine, Dan is barely holding on. But one thing gets him through the long, lonely nights and that is his cherished dog, Anni. When she is stolen from his front yard, Dan and his daughter, Lindsay, are devastated. Meanwhile in another part of town, Andrea Keller is recovering from the heartbreak of a messy divorce. After she rescues a defenseless dog from an abusive tenant, her life changes in ways she never could have anticipated.
Dan and Andrea cross paths again and again, only to keep missing each other and the opportunity of a lifetime. As Anni works to find her way home, can she bring together these two lost souls desperately in need of a second chance at happiness?
©2014 Karen McQuestion (P)2014 Brilliance Audio, all rights reserved.

Review:
Dan lost his wife a year earlier and, as many grieving spouses do, he buried himself in work. His wife’s beloved dog, Anni, has helped give strength to Dan and their teenaged daughter, Lindsay. Lindsay is devastated when Anni is stolen at the end of their road by young men who appear to be drinking. Dan tries to find the dog and Lindsay begins to be obsessed with finding Anni, especially as she dreams her mother is giving her clues and encouragement.

Andrea is trying to regain her footing after her husband left her for a ‘sexier’ woman. Andrea works at a real estate management company and gets a call from a tenant that another tenant in the building has a dog which is illegal. Andrea goes to give notice to the violating tenants and impulsively decides to rescue Anni who is chained out in the cold snow. Andrea quickly grows to love Anni.

Surprisingly Dan and Andrea cross paths, first exchanging names and another time sharing coffee. One night Andrea even sees Dan across the room with none other than the blonde who moved in with her ex. Apparently the new relationship between Andrea’s ex, Marco, and the blonde has failed. Marco soon shows up trying to win Andrea back.

Andrea takes Anni with her to visit her grandmother in a nursing home. She just misses being seen by Dan and Lindsay who decided to visit a family friend at the urging of Lindsay’s dreams.
The writing is on the wall – eventually Andrea and Dan have to meet and discover that they both love Anni. How will Lindsay respond and who will get to keep the dog?

Dan and Andrea are fairly well developed characters, but Anni could steal the show at least with the extent that she inspires love. The story weaves back and forth between Dan’s life and Andrea’s. There was more life activity than excitement, resulting in pacing that seemed subdued and on the edge of slow. Although this had some very lovely, sweet moments, the story is a little light, a little fluff and just a little longer than necessary. I would recommend this to readers who enjoy a light, sweet romance.

Audio Notes: Dan John Miller doe a nice job with the narration. He manages both male and female voices and provides appropriate emotional input. The audio enhanced the story for me.

Source: November 2018 Audible Sale $4.95. This qualifies for 2019TBR, 2019Audiobook and 2019Alphabet Goals.

Martha's Bookshelf***Friday Pick Giveaway March 1, 2019

Happy Friday! Achk! Third month of the year already!

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 February 22, 2019 Pick. There were no automatic wins this week. Automatic wins are those who requested the book four times without other people asking for that book during those weeks. No titles were blocked.

CONGRATULATIONS
to Random.org picked Winners from February 22, 2019 Pick:
Carol L gets The Christmas Promise
and
Fredamans 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.}

Don't get mad, march off to read instead!
Image found at PODCASTPD.

New Book Group #84 December 15, 2018
Here are some Christmas titles to pick from.

One PAIR:
Susan Wiggs: Snowfall and Fireside
SINGLES:
A Family for Thanksgiving
Thanksgiving by Janet Evanovich
On this Holy Night
A Rancher for Christmas
Christmas Haven
Christmas Brides Anthology
Holiday in Death
Christmas Homecoming
Together by Christmas Anthology
The Christmas Date
The Christmas Promise (hardback)
A Blue and Grey Christmas (hardback)
The Snow Angel (CD Audiobook)
King Harold's Snow Job


New Book Group #83 November 30, 2018

(Starting bottom left and continuing up then down)
PAIRS:
Kat Martin: Bold Angel and Devil's Prize
Elizabeth Lowell: Death Is Forever and Running Scared
SINGLE
It Takes a Hero by Elizabeth Boyle
Two Alone by Sandra Brown
'Tween a Devil and his hard Place by Sam Cheever
Seductive Secrets by Lynne Connolly
Seven Up by Janet Evanovich - Audio Cassettes
A Good Walk Spoiled by John Feinstein Audio Cassettes
Highland Guardian by Melissa Mayhue
Hot Pursuit by Christinea Skye
Sisters & Secrets Anthology
Reader's Digest Condensed Books - each hardback
Cold Harbour and The Courtship of Peggy McCoy
The Things We Do for Love, Three Weeks With My Brother, The Murder Artist and Night Train to Lisbon
Follow the Stars Home, Hunting Badger, The Quiet Game and Second Wind

New Book Group #82 November 9, 2018

Pairs:
Stella Cameron: French Quarter and Key West
Jude Deveraux: Mulberry Tree and Wild Orchids
SINGLES:
Magic Strikes by Ilona Andrews
Unmasked Anthology - Jennifer Blake, Janet Dailey and Elizabeth Gage
Plum Lovin' by Janet Evanovich
Killing Time by Linda Howard
The Finer Things by Brenda Joyce
Wicked Promise by Kat Martin
Countess of Scandal by Laurel McKee
The Leopard's Woman by Linda Lael Miller and White Wolf by Lindsay McKenna
Eagle and the Dove by Victoria Morrow
To Love Again by Bertrice Small
The Wedding Night by Barbara Dawson Smith
Primal Obsession by Susan Vaughn

New Book Group #81 August 17, 2018

There are three audios at the top:
Kisscut is Cassettes
SINGLES

Best Laid Plans
Darkness Tell Us
Cooking More Deadly


New Book Group #80 August 17, 2018

Note: The Final Judgment and
The Book of Fate are Audio Cassettes
PAIRS
Fern Michaels and James Patterson
SINGLES:
Summer’s Moon
The Green Trap
End Game
Night School
The Red Tent
The Final Judgment Audio Cassettes
Secrets of Paris
Linda Goodnight
Irish Charmers, the Mighty Quinns
Firebird
No Getting Over a Cowboy
The Book of Fate Audio Cassettes


New Book Group #79 July 13, 2018
I found this box of books buried under some other boxes.

The Vanishing Act of Esme Lenox by Maggie O’Farrell
P.S. by Helen Schulman
Her Sexiest Surprise by Dawn Atkins (personally autographed)
The Maverick Preacher by Victoria Bylin (personally autographed)
The Broken Window by Jeffery Deaver
The Doctor’s Forever Family by Marie Ferrarella
Dakota Child by Linda Ford
Branded by the Sheriff by Delores Fossen
The Italian’s Inexperienced Mistress
Calling the Shots by Ellen Hartman
Promises, Promises by Amber Miller
This Time for Keeps by Jenna Mills
Rhapsody in Time by Judith O’Brien
A Daughter’s Legacy by Virginia Smith
Another Man’s Baby by Kay Stockham
The Cowboy’s Christmas Miracle by RaeAnne Thayne


New Book Group #78 April 27, 2018

PAIRS
Johanna Lindsey Pair
Judith Krentz Pair
SINGLES
Midnight Rainbow
Blackberry Bush
Breaking Point
A Tangled Affair
To Wicked to Love
Betrayed
My Dark Prince
Roses are Red Audio Cassettes
Brothers of Gwynedd
Fatal Defect
Bones of the Sea and Other Stories
By a Spider's Thread



New Book Group #77 February 16, 2018- All gone

New Book Group #76 November 3, 2017
13 books remain of the original 37:

I finally Have them Listed!
Boots & Booties by Kristine Rolofson
Saucer the Conquest by Stephen Coonts
Echo Burning by Lee Child
The Scorpion Seducer by Bonnie Vanak
Hell On Earth by David L. Porter
Tempted All Night by Liz Carlyle
Day of the Dead by J.A. Jance
White Night by Jim Butcher
Five Gold Rings Anthology Constance O’Banyon and three others
Riders of the Purple Sage by Zane Grey
The Glimpses of the Moon by Edith Wharton
Depraved Heart by Patricia Cornwell
Crisscross by Harmon Henkin
Wizard’s Daughter by Catherine Coulter
Pearl Beyond Price by Claire Delacroix
Maelstrom by Anne McCaffrey
The Wedding by Nicholas Sparks
The Wicked Wyckerly by Patricia Rice
Inhuman Condition by Clive Barker
Night Whispers by Judith McNaught
101 Commonsense Rules for the Office by John R. Brinkerhoff

This shelf of 35 books are what is left from Groups #1 (11/27/09) through Group #75 September 29, 2017

(Title list reads left at bottom to right at top - 14 titles.)
Rehabilitation
Secret Blessing
Named of the Dragon
Daring
Aunt Erma's Cope Book
JoAnn Ross: Confessions
The Eye of the World by Robert Jordan
The New Birth Order Book by Dr. Kevin Leman
A Kiss Before Dawn by Kimberly Logan
The Fireman’s Fair by Josephine Humphreys (Hardcover)
Bound by Destiny by Rayka Mennen
Rainbow Mars by Larry Niven
There Was A Little Girl by Ed McBain (Audio Cassettes)
Love's Brazen Fire by Betina Krahn 

(Title list reads left at bottom to right at top - 21 titles.)
Plan of Attack by Dan Brown
(*Three more very old books from my Gothics box.)
*The Man in the Garden by Paule Mason (1969 - yellowed)
Fire Dancer by Ann Maxwell
*Four books are very old; pulled from a box of gothic novels I found.
*Maggie – Her Marriage by Taylor Caldwell (1953 very old, yellowed pages, some stain damage doesn't effect reading)
First Things First by Stephen R. Covey- Audio Cassette
Trilogy Of Mysteries Audio Book Shadow Prey, There Was A Little Girl, Smokescreen Audio Cassettes (NOT CDs)
Raintree Haunted by Linda Winstead Jones (spine creases)
The Shadowing by Joan Overfield
The Sweetheart Dance by Patti Ann Colt
BOX 4 2015 (reboxed from Boxes 47-53)
Undateable by Ellen Rakieten & Anne Coyle
Jezebel by Katherine Sutcliff
The Hidden Truth of Cytech's Randall Forty by Vickie Kennedy
Breakfast in Bed by Sandra Brown - Audio Cassette Tapes (link is for mass media version)
BOX 3 2015 (reboxed from Boxes 39- 47)
Shetland Summer by Janet Lynnford
BOX 2 2015 (reboxed from Boxes 24- 38)
The Trailsman: Texas Lead Slingers by Jon Sharpe
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
An Honorable Man by Rosemary Rogers (spine creases)
The Willful Widow by Valerie King (spine wear)
Foundation (Foundation Novels) by Isaac Asimov
BOX #1 2015 (reboxed from Boxes 1- 23)
Ghost Writer (Shivers #3) by M.D. Spenser
Alien Chronicles - The Crimson Claw by Deborah Chester

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 EIGHT years I have posted 82 groups of 16 plus an additional 21 totaling 1,333 books to find new homes! (as of November 9, 2018).

I am happy to say that so far about 1,225+ books have found new homes through this feature! YAY. [A year or so ago I posted I had reached 2000 books given away. As I calculated the numbers 11/2/17 I realized that had to be an error. I realized I went from 1098 to 2001 instead of 1101. Guess I was tired; sorry for the error.] 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: A Romantic Ghost Story by Jason W. Chan

This ghostly romance reads quickly.

A Romantic Ghost Story
by Jason W. Chan

File Size: 663 KB
Print Length: 92 pages
Publication Date: December 23, 2011
ASIN: B006POX2NC
Genre: Ghost, Paranormal, Romance
My Rating: 3.5 of 5.0

Trapped on Earth and forced to marry a demon, Nancy is a spirit about to give up her dreams of success in Hollywood when a brave young man returns her faith to her, and makes her believe in love again. A Romantic Ghost Story is about the all-powerful, redemptive nature of love and how it could change someone’s world.

Review:
Nancy is lying on her death bed having lived a long, energetic life. The doctor and nurses are reluctant to tell her she is close to death but they don’t realize she is ready to die. She claims she has been dead before and she is looking forward to seeing Ryan again. The caregivers think perhaps she is hallucinating.

When Nancy’s young granddaughter arrives, she confirms that she doesn’t know about her grandmother having a death experience and she has never heard of Ryan. Nancy smiles and then drifts into memories 75 years earlier.

Nancy was a young woman born in Macedonia to a poor family. She struggles even before her parents die but then she is left in the care of a greedy, abusive “uncle”. Nancy dreams of getting to Hollywood to pursue her dreams to become a successful singer/songwriter/star. She clings to her guitar, Lucy, and sings whenever she can hoping to be discovered. She sings a sad song she wrote herself. One day a tourist eating in the café claims he is a music producer who wants to sponsor in Hollywood.

Nancy sets out with tremulous dreams but soon finds herself as a victim of sex trafficking. Events spiral down as Nancy’s situation plunges her to death and delivers her into the hands of a demonic Sea God. Although the Sea God chooses Nancy as his fiancé, this ‘privilege’ brings the threat of permanent separation from the world and any goodness. Nancy’s only joy and hope comes when she meets a young singer, Ryan. He believes in her and is willing to help her try to escape to follow her dreams.

I liked the premise of the story and feel it had strong potential. The storytelling is interesting and there is lovely tenderness in the love story between ghost Nancy and Ryan. Sadly, the story is in desperate need of editing. My reading attention was particularly disrupted by inconsistent sentence tenses. There were also some plot threads that were too unrealistic with dangers and resolutions not fully explained. This is a quick romance that could be enjoyed by readers who enjoy ghostly stories.

Source: I pulled this from my Kindle TBR shelf – 2013. This qualifies for 2019TBR and 2019Alphabetic Goals.

#NetGalley Book Review: An Unexpected Redemption by Emily Hamsher

I liked this strong Christian romance.
An Unexpected Redemption
by Emily Hamsher

File Size: 581 KB
Print Length: 268 pages
Publisher: WestBow Press (May 8, 2018)
ASIN: B07D94GFDJ
Genre: Christian, Medieval, Romance
My Rating: 4.75 of 5.0

Prince Lucian of Brasov has been running from his family, from God, and even from himself. When he decides to take revenge upon his elder brother by stealing away his betrothed, Lucian is taken aback by the woman in his custody. Her pure heart and unabashed kindness thwarts his every cruel intention. Lucian finds himself hoping that she might hold the answers to heal his past, even though he knows she can never be his.
Every girl dreams of marrying her prince, so when Lady Adelina receives the unexpected announcement of her betrothal to the Prince of the realm, she takes it as a clear sign of the Lords will. When she is kidnapped by a band of ruffians and taken far from her home she quickly learns that the road to love is never as it seems. Though her captor portrays himself as a ruthless man, Adelina cant help but feel compassion for him and the pain she finds lurking beneath the dark shadows of his character.

Review:
Lucian was adopted into a royal family. Although that is a special gift, he is still a young, rebellious boy who pushes the boundaries. When he is sent home form school, he knows he has disappointed his adoptive parents. When his elder brother scorns him he knows he has been rejected and he runs away so that he can live life with adventure and danger as he wants.

Years later he is a brigand leading a crew of misfits. When he receives an invitation to his brother’s wedding Lucian decides to kidnap the chosen bride.

Lady Adelina has always had a dream about the young prince who rescued her from bullies when she was a young girl. She is thrilled to be betrothed to the prince and sets out to meet her intended and the royal family. Shortly into the journey she is kidnapped by Lucian and his band of thieves. Her faith that her heavenly Father will protect her surrounds her spirit with dignity and strength. The brigands sense the deep goodness in Adelina and treat her gently and carefully. Especially Radu, Lucian’s best friend and second in command, seeks to protect Adelina. He himself has accepted faith in Jesus but has continued to live with Lucian. He hopes that someday he will be able to make Lucian grow beyond his bitterness and plans of revenge.

Lucian watches Lady Adelina and slowly his heart opens to the peace her faith exudes. But what chance does he have of gaining the love of the woman who is already promised to his brother? And when he returns her to his family’s home, what will be his reception from the parents he has been estranged from for ten years?

I wanted to like Lucian but he doesn’t make it easy. Lady Adelina’s steadfast faith and willingness to share love to a rogue is beautiful. The characters are well developed. There is action to move the story along but the strong, unrelenting faith of Adelina made to story extra special for me. The writing is straight forward and descriptive. My only disappointment was the abrupt ending that leaves the story suspended for a next book.

This is a wonderful mix of medieval dangers and a love that is all that is proper and blessed. I would like to read more by Ms. Hamsher. I recommend this to readers who enjoy medieval romance and are open to strong faith themes.

Source: 2018 NetGalley. This qualifies for 2019TBR, 2019NetGalley and 2019Alphabet Goals.