Martha's Bookshelf***Friday Pick Giveaway July 19, 2019

Happy Friday! Another busy week and I've been tired at night. *sigh*

TO ENTER FRIDAY PICK

US Entrants: Leave a comment and tell me WHICH BOOK you would like to get from the Friday Pick lists.

INTERNATIONAL: Leave a comment indicating "Gift Card" (see further comments near the end of the post.)

CUT OFF TIME IS THURSDAY NIGHTS AT 9:00 PM CENTRAL so I do not have to stay up too late to do the winner post! I will randomly pick two winners to announce Friday mornings with the next Pick post.

Thank you to all who entered the July 12, 2019 Pick. There were no was one 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 was one title blocked again.
Rubynreba gets Murder at Granite Falls.

CONGRATULATIONS
to Random.org picked Winners from July 12, 2019 Pick:
MYSTICA gets a GC
and
BN100 gets Eco-Sisters: The Car.

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.}

This image combines two things I like: books and ice cream!
Image found at Read It Forward..

New Book Group #86 June 7, 2019
Another group of variety from my shelves.

SINGLES:
Forged in Steel by Maya Banks
The Scam by Janet Evanovich and Lee Goldberg
A Place Called Freedom by Ken Follett
Eco-Sisters: The Car by P. Ryan Hembree and Mary Ann Gustin
Forget Me Not by Vicki Hinze
Preaching to the Corpse by Roberta Isleib
Show No Fear by Marliss Melton
Pursuit by Karen Robards
Murder at Granite Falls by Roxanne Rustand
A Question of God's Balance (Vol 1) by Joseph Thek
King by Right of Blood and Might by Anna L. Walls


New Book Group #85 March 22, 2019
A variety from my shelves.

Roxanne Becknel: When Lightning Strikes
SINGLES:
Summer Skies by Judith Christenberry
Windfall (two stories) by JoAnn Ross
Daddy's Little Cowgirl (two stories) by Judith Bowen and Kimberly Raye
Almost Forever by Linda Howard
The Forever Year, Cold Pursuit, Lover's Lane and Temporary Sanity (Reader's Condensed)
ToxiCity by Libby Fischer Hillmann

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
On this Holy Night
A Rancher for Christmas
Christmas Haven
Christmas Homecoming
King Harold's Snow Job


New Book Group #83 November 30, 2018

(Starting bottom left and continuing up then down)
SINGLE
Seductive Secrets by Lynne Connolly
Seven Up by Janet Evanovich - Audio Cassettes
A Good Walk Spoiled by John Feinstein Audio Cassettes
Three 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

Stella Cameron: Key West
SINGLES:
Magic Strikes by Ilona Andrews
Killing Time by Linda Howard
Countess of Scandal by Laurel McKee
The Wedding Night by Barbara Dawson Smith

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
James Patterson
SINGLES:
Summer’s Moon
The Final Judgment Audio Cassettes
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)
Dakota Child by Linda Ford
Calling the Shots by Ellen Hartman
Promises, Promises by Amber Miller
This Time for Keeps by Jenna Mills
A Daughter’s Legacy by Virginia Smith
Another Man’s Baby by Kay Stockham


New Book Group #78 April 27, 2018

SINGLES
Blackberry Bush
Breaking Point
A Tangled Affair
To Wicked to Love
Roses are Red Audio Cassettes


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
The Scorpion Seducer by Bonnie Vanak
Hell On Earth by David L. Porter
White Night by Jim Butcher
Riders of the Purple Sage by Zane Grey
The Glimpses of the Moon by Edith Wharton
Crisscross by Harmon Henkin
Maelstrom by Anne McCaffrey
Inhuman Condition by Clive Barker
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
Bound by Destiny by Rayka Mennen
Rainbow Mars by Larry Niven

(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 1,259+ 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!

Audio Book Review and Giveaway: The Hashtag Hunt by Kristina Seek

I enjoyed this quick, fun romantic comedy.
The Hashtag Hunt
By: Kristina Seek
Narrated by: Andrea Emmes, Tim Paige

Length: 5 hrs and 18 mins
Unabridged Audiobook
Release date: 06-12-19
Language: English
Publisher: The Audio Flow, LLC
Genre: Clean Romance, Inspirational Romance, Romantic Comedy
My Rating: 4.5 of 5.0 Overall; Story 4.5; Narration 4.5.

Publisher's Summary
The only reason Lauren entered the Hashtag Hunt was for the $10,000 grand prize. She needed seed money for her startup, and it sounded easy enough: 12 hours to text 12 photos to someone called the Wizard. For hashtag number five, Lauren needs a #HottieInTheWild, and with the help of her best friend, Ivy, she finds the perfect subject.
The only reason Brenner entered Barkley’s Pub was to have beers with Scott, an Army brother back in town. The reunion is interrupted when a woman is caught crouched in a dark corner, taking pictures of Brenner. Lauren explains, and though embarrassed, she accepts Scott and Brenner’s offer to help with hashtag number six.
While hunting for hashtags, Lauren finds adventure and romance with her #Hottie, but she must stay focused to beat the clock and win the cash.
©2018 Kristina Seek (P)2019 The Audio Flow, LLC

Review:
Lauren has a great group of friends who support her. Her friend Ivy has inherited funds and she would be more than happy to gift or lend the money Lauren needs to open her dream store, Paperback Vinyl, for used books, records and related items. But Lauren is set on earning her own way before opening the store. She has entered Hashtag Hunt, an online contest hoping to win the $10,000.00 prize. The hunt requires texting 12 specific images in 12 hours to the host, “Wizard”.

Ivy has helped Lauren get into the top five of the leader board as they begin Challenge 5 of 12: #HitW, Hottie In The Wild. The girls are ready to leave the current pub when a new man walks in. Lauren has found her HitW and sets out to surreptitiously get pictures of him. Then he and his service buddy, Scott, capture Lauren in the act.

When Brenner and Scott, “Skully”, learn the reason for the pictures, they insist on joining the party. Scott is immediately intent on getting to know Ivy better and Brenner is pleased to find out if Lauren has any flaws. The guys add great banter and romance on the hunt while Lauren calls other friends to help locate items needed which include: dumpster find, ‘old school’, pay phone and more. Lauren starts to fall for Brenner, but she has to keep her head about her to stick within the rules if she is going to win the contest.

I quickly was pulled in by the light tone of the story and the fun friend interaction. I’ve always loved scavenger hunts and road rallies and I loved the idea of this contest. The rules made it tricky and challenging which I liked. The addition of the romance interest is sweet and at times sappy. Not everyone believes in love at first sight (it’s how I met my hubby) but even if it is strong interest at first sight it makes the story upbeat and warm. I also liked how the story rotates POV between Lauren and Brenner. This kept the momentum and interest engaging for me. I would enjoy reading/listening to more fun stories from Ms. Seek and I recommend this to romance readers looking for a cute, lighthearted story.

Audio Notes:Andrea Emmes and Tim Paige do a great job with the narration. They share the light tone and fun energy. The narration enhanced an enjoyable experience.

Source: Blitz Tour through Caffeinated PR Tours to post 7/18/19. This qualifies for 2019Audiobook goal.

The Hashtag Hunt by Kristina Seek

The Hashtag Hunt by Kristina Seek narrated by Andrea Emmes -Award Winning, Best Selling Audiobook Narrator and Tim Paige. Check out the deets, listen to a sound bite and enter to win a fabulous prize. We think you're going to love this fun, original romance.

Grab your Copy Today: Audible | iTunes

Listen to A Sample

Enter the Giveaway

One lucky US winner will receive a paperback copy of The Hashtag Hunt signed by Kristina Seek and the narrators! They will also receive an Amazon Echo making listening to audios in your home a breeze. Enter today!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

About the Author

Kristina Seek's debut novel, The Hashtag Hunt, was published in 2018. She is a graduate of Queens College in Charlotte and a member of Romance Writers of America. In March of 2019, she quit her day job to focus on a career in writing. Kristina lives in North Carolina with her husband and son. She cherishes time with her friends and family, loves traveling to new destinations, and wants to cross off the other items on her bucket list.

Website | Facebook | Instagram

#NetGalley Book Review: The Fairy in the Kettle Gets Magical by Pauline Tait

This lively tale of magical fairy dust makes a good story for children.

The Fairy in the Kettle Gets Magical
by Pauline Tait

Series: The Fairy in the Kettle (Book 3)
Paperback: 30 pages
Publisher: Silverwood Books (May 7, 2019)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 1781328110
Genre: Children, Illustrated
My Rating: 4.0 of 5.0

"They could remember its warm amber glow shimmering and sparkling as it danced through the air, twisting and turning as it went."
When Leona was woken early one morning, she knew something had to be wrong. But as she rushed to meet the elders, nothing could prepare her for what she was about to hear. Life in Fairy Glen was about to change...the words fairy dust were echoing in the air!

Review:
Leona and her friends are called early one morning to meet the fairy elders. The elders tell a story of the history of their Glen and then announce that they need the help of all the fairies on an important search. The elders had hidden something important but have forgotten the hiding place. The young people are happy to be helpful and have a good time working together on the mission.

Although this isn’t particularly exciting for adults, I think children will enjoy the imaginative but light story. I liked the Lenora's kettle and the easy flowing story. The illustrations are bright and lively and fit with the description of the glowing fairy dust. The joint mission gives a good message of working together to solve a problem. I recommend this as a nice story for daytime or sweet dream bedtime.

Source: NetGalley 2019. This qualifies for 2019NetGalley goal.

Sunday Post July 14, 2019/It's Monday! What are You Reading? Plus Mailbox Monday July 15, 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.

We were back at work full days this week. Heather worked on getting caught up on bookkeeping; Staff did their jobs; and I had numerous appointments plus court work.

Last week I got a picture of Heather and the kids in the golf cart ready for their community parade.

I'll be taking Hubby to hospital tomorrow morning for heart catheterization. This should allow us to know if anything new is going on.
Our weather here continues to be hot. This week my prayers are for those in the line of Hurricane/tropical storm Barry.

I had a good week of reading but it seemed a bit slow: 1 audiobook and 1 ebook. I posted four reviews on the blog and posted my usual memes.

I visited 18 blogs again last week.
Shout Out this week to Ramblngs of a Coffee Addicted Writer. Billy is an author and a reader who is a huge horror fan, but loves other genres as well.
Thank you to all the nice people who visit me.

These were last week's posts:

• Sunday Post July 7, 2019/It's Monday! What are You Reading? Plus Mailbox Monday July 8, 2019.

• MBS June 2019 Reading List Wrap Up.

• ATBR- Audible Book Review: The Highwayman A Longmire Story by Craig Johnson; Genre: Ghost, Mystery, Western; My Rating: 4.5 of 5.0 Overall; Story 4.5; Narration 5.0.

• NG2019- #NetGalley Book Review: Every Last Breath by Juno Rushdan; Genre: Action Adventure, Romantic Suspense, Terrorism Thriller; My Rating: 4.5 of 5.0.

• Martha's Bookshelf***Friday Pick Giveaway July 12, 2019. Open Worldwide. Ending 7/11/2019.

• ATBR- Audible Book Review: Monster Hunter Memoirs: Sinners by Larry Correia, John Ringo; Genre: Fantasy, Paranormal, Urban Fantasy; My Rating: 4.5 of 5.0 Overall; Story 4.25; Narration 4.75.

• Sharing Beyond Books #373 Comment Giveaway July 13, 2019. Open Worldwide. Ending 6/15/2019.

• ATBR- Audible Book Review: A Quiet Life in the Country by T E Kinsey; Genre: Amateur Sleuth, Cozy Mystery, Historical; My Rating: 4.25 of 5.0 Overall; Story 4.25; Narration 4.25.

• Sunday Words of Encouragement July 14, 2019.

Finished Reading:

1. Audible/Smartphone (ATBR)

A Quiet Life in the Country
A Lady Hardcastle Mystery, Book 1
By: T E Kinsey
Narrated by: Elizabeth Knowelden
Series: Lady Hardcastle Mysteries, Book 1
Length: 7 hrs and 43 mins
This is a nice, cozy historical mystery.
My review is linked above.
Source: July 2017 Audible Sale $4.95.
Click on book title for full description.

2. eBook/Kindle (eB2019/TBR)

Blackout (A Riley Covington Thriller Book 3)
by Jason Elam and Steve Yohn
We enjoyed this intense Christian thriller.Source: Print 2017 or 2019 Kindle $9.99.
Click on book title for full description.

Currently Reading:

1. eBook/Kindle (NG2019)

Tangled Web
by Gail Z. Martin
I am enjoying the paranormal aspects of this. (70%)
Source: NetGalley 2019.
Click on book title for full description.

2. Audio/Smartphone (A2019)

The Hashtag Hunt
By: Kristina Seek
Narrated by: Andrea Emmes, Tim Paige
I started this to make sure I would be ready for the tour post on Thursday. It is very cute and I am enjoying it so far. (30%)
Source: Blitz Tour through Caffeinated PR Tours to post 7/18/19.
Publisher's Summary
The only reason Lauren entered the Hashtag Hunt was for the $10,000 grand prize. She needed seed money for her startup, and it sounded easy enough: 12 hours to text 12 photos to someone called the Wizard. For hashtag number five, Lauren needs a #HottieInTheWild, and with the help of her best friend, Ivy, she finds the perfect subject.
The only reason Brenner entered Barkley’s Pub was to have beers with Scott, an Army brother back in town. The reunion is interrupted when a woman is caught crouched in a dark corner, taking pictures of Brenner. Lauren explains, and though embarrassed, she accepts Scott and Brenner’s offer to help with hashtag number six.
While hunting for hashtags, Lauren finds adventure and romance with her #Hottie, but she must stay focused to beat the clock and win the cash.
©2018 Kristina Seek (P)2019 The Audio Flow, LLC

3. Audio/Smartphone (ATBR)

Eye of the Needle
By: Ken Follett
Narrated by: Eric Lincoln
Length: 9 hrs and 16 mins
This is engaging but tense. (55%)Source: 2011 Audible purchase.
Click on book title for full description.

4. eBook/Computer (NG2019)

The Fairy in the Kettle Gets Magical
by Pauline Tait
I started this and it is sweet. (30%)
Source: NetGalley 2019.
"They could remember its warm amber glow shimmering and sparkling as it danced through the air, twisting and turning as it went."
When Leona was woken early one morning, she knew something had to be wrong. But as she rushed to meet the elders, nothing could prepare her for what she was about to hear. Life in Fairy Glen was about to change...the words fairy dust were echoing in the air!

5. eBook/Kindle (NG2019)

The Library of Ever
by Zeno Alexander
This looks like a fun read.
Source: NetGalley 2019.
The Library of Ever is an instant classic for middle grade readers and booklovers everywhere—an adventure across time and space, as a young girl becomes a warrior for the forces of knowledge.
With her parents off traveling the globe, Lenora is bored, bored, bored—until she discovers a secret doorway into the ultimate library. Mazelike and reality-bending, the library contains all the universe’s wisdom. Every book ever written, and every fact ever known, can be found within its walls. And Lenora becomes its newly appointed Fourth Assistant Apprentice Librarian.
She rockets to the stars, travels to a future filled with robots, and faces down a dark nothingness that wants to destroy all knowledge. To save the library, Lenora will have to test her limits and uncover secrets hidden among its shelves.

July 14, 2019 - I am still enjoying the devotions and readings with the One Year Bible plan through You Version App. I will be finishing the 7 day study, Today's Words, Tomorrow's Harvests, tonight. [You can check out audio of the One Year Bible Plan on the companion commentary online.]

I completed two books and posted four reviews. That outs me up to date on reviews.
I have been adding newer reviews to NetGalley, Goodreads, Amazon and Audible. (Eventually I will add older reviews.)
My NetGalley shelf is at 14 unread. The April titles are down to 1 so I keep making progress. [Plus I have 4 old titles (2012-13.)]
I still have four author ebook titles in queue and plan to read at least one this month.
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 received three new review titles this week through NetGalley.
I bought four audiobooks - two from Chirp and two from one credit at Audiobooks.com.
I downloaded week 12 titles from SYNC.
Seven free kindle title this week. (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 three titles from NetGalley:
Storm Rising
by Ronie Kendig

Fledgling

by Molly Harper

Yours Truly, Thomas

by Rachel Fordham

Won

NONE

Purchased

7/10/19 I discovered a new site for inexpensive audiobooks: Chirp
Both of these titles were on my Wish List. 
$3.99
It Can't Happen Here
by Sinclair Lewis
Runtime: 14:27:03

$1.99 Hunted

by AD Starrling

Runtime: 10:07:09

7/14/19 2 for 1 Credit at Audiobooks.com
It wasn't easy to pick two out of 19 or so titles but I decided on these.

The Good Pilot Peter Woodhouse
By Alexander McCall Smith
Narrated By: David Rintoul
Duration: 6 h 29 min

Someone to Care

By Mary Balogh
Narrated By: Rosalyn Landor

Duration: 11 h 25 min

Free

HAS ANYONE READ EITHER OF THESE? I get to pick one of 30 titles as July VIP at Audiobook.com. I'm trying to decide between these two:
The Lies of Locke Lamora by Scott Lynch (just not sure if the language is too rough for me.
OR
Library at Mount Char by Scott Hawkins


SYNC Audio 2019
Week 12: July 11 – July 18
BECOMING KAREEM by Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, narrated by Kareem Abdul-Jabbar (Hachette Audio)
VINCENT AND THEO by Deborah Heiligman, narrated by Philip Fox (Dreamscape Media)

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

Sunday Words of Encouragement July 14, 2019

This morning we enjoyed a video on growth of Christian communities in Colombia and Nairobi. These revivals started with prayer against evil spiritual strongholds (spiritualists, mediums and witches) and God honored the prayers of the people. The evil elements moved out and spiritual (and economic) growth occurred in the communities.

Our pastor and his wife were away for a funeral of a good friend. Our youth pastor led youth song praise and worship and then gave the message continuing in the Resolution series. This morning’s sermon was based on Hebrews 11:1-7 which is more of the letter addressed to the Jewish Christians who may have been facing persecution.

The purpose of Hebrews is two fold:
1. Elevate Jesus above anything else, this is who God wants us to follow.
2. Challenge believers to stay faithful even during struggles and facing persecution.
Chapter 11 addresses “Faith”. Not the faith that is religion but faith that is trusting God that He will do what He has promised even when we don't see the path. We often seek the signs of God over the word of God.

We may be praying for God to show up but faith is the evidence of things we cannot see. Faith is trusting in the Word. It is faith in His word not in works.

Don't be a spoiled child seeking what is in His hands. Instead be thankful and trust Him to give what is needed.
Hebrew 7:6 says “And without faith it is impossible to please God, because anyone who comes to him must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who earnestly seek him.”
We need to trust His word over our circumstances. God's word still stands!

Isaiah 55:11; Luke 1:37 The word of God will never fail.
Hebrews 6:13 Abraham waited patiently….
Hebrews 11:7 Noah acted by faith….

There is a gap between where you are and where God is. This gap is where we fall if we give up trusting. We need preparation, strength and equipment to travel the gap. That is what the Word provides. The foundation of faith is in the word. That foundation will get us to the promise.

I think this song fits this message:

Verses for Today:
Hebrews 11:1-3 NIV Faith in Action
1 Now faith is confidence in what we hope for and assurance about what we do not see. 2 This is what the ancients were commended for.
3 By faith we understand that the universe was formed at God’s command, so that what is seen was not made out of what was visible.

Lord I praise You and give you thanks that You have allowed me faith to trust Your path and Your promises.

 

Audible Book Review: A Quiet Life in the Country by T E Kinsey

This is a nice, cozy historical mystery.
A Quiet Life in the Country
A Lady Hardcastle Mystery, Book 1
By: T E Kinsey
Narrated by: Elizabeth Knowelden

Series: Lady Hardcastle Mysteries, Book 1
Length: 7 hrs and 43 mins
Unabridged Audiobook
Release date: 10-04-16
Language: English
Publisher: Brilliance Audio
Genre: Amateur Sleuth, Cozy Mystery, Historical
My Rating: 4.25 of 5.0 Overall; Story 4.25; Narration 4.25.

Publisher's Summary
Lady Emily Hardcastle is an eccentric widow with a secret past. Florence Armstrong, her maid and confidante, is an expert in martial arts. The year is 1908 and they’ve just moved from London to the country, hoping for a quiet life.
But it is not long before Lady Hardcastle is forced out of her self-imposed retirement. There’s a dead body in the woods, and the police are on the wrong scent. Lady Hardcastle makes some enquiries of her own, and it seems she knows a surprising amount about crime investigation…
As Lady Hardcastle and Flo delve deeper into rural rivalries and resentment, they uncover a web of intrigue that extends far beyond the village. With almost no one free from suspicion, they can be certain of only one fact: there is no such thing as a quiet life in the country.
Revised edition: This edition of A Quiet Life In The Country includes editorial revisions.
©2016 T E Kinsey. (P)2016 Brilliance Audio, all rights reserved.

Review:
Flo has been lady’s maid and companion to Lady Emily Hardcastle for many years. They fled China after Lady Emily’s husband was murdered and lived in India before returning to London. Now they have moved to the country expecting to live quietly. Only a few days into settling in Lady Emily and Flo go for a walk in the near by woods and stumble upon a death scene. A local young man is hanging from a tree. At first look the police may think this is a tragic suicide until Emily starts to point out the details that show this is really a crime scene.

Lady Emily decides to help the local authorities. Mistress and maid decide to become detectives like Holmes with sidekick Watson. They continue to visit socially while doing questioning. They are invited to attend a local birthday celebration which ends up with trouble. A man is found dead the morning after the party. Inspector Sunderland is addressing the death while the party hostess pulls Lady Emily aside and asks for her help. Knowing that Lady Emily and Flo are doing amateur sleuthing the hostess asks if they can investigate a special jewel that has gone missing.

Lady Emily and Flo are busy if not quiet. They have a lovely relationship that is unusual for the aristocracy in 1908. There is a little mystery to their history which adds to the intrigue of the story. Flo is skilled in martial arts so she is confident she can protect them for the most part. Both Lady Emily and Flo are quick to discern crime clues and are adept at subtly questioning witnesses. Although the initial reaction with the Inspector is hesitant, he soon recognizes their helpful input and they develop a nice friendship. The country setting presents an opportunity to portray village life.

I enjoyed the combination of historical setting, unusual character friendships and busy mystery. The tongue in cheek relationship between mistress and maid/companion adds nice humor. I would pick up more titles in the series when I am looking for a nice historical mystery. I recommend this to readers who enjoy historical, cozy mystery.

Audio Notes: Elizabeth Knowelden does a lovely job with the narration. She provides distinct voices for the characters and captures the unique British humor. The narration enhanced my enjoyment in this story.

Source: July 2017 Audible Sale $4.95. This qualifies for 2019TBR and 2019Audiobook goals.

Sharing Beyond Books #373 Comment Giveaway July 13, 2019

Hello again and Welcome back to Sharing Beyond Books, SBB.

Thanks to everyone who commented last week.
It is nice to know that most of you have support for your reading. Nine and 1/2 have support; and five and 1/2 do not have support; two have family who are "okay". The 1/2 has a mother that supports reading and a father who doesn't. Another commenter doesn't have partner support but her dogs love to cuddle while she reads. :-)

The Winner from SBB #372 comments is: #4 FREDAMANS who can make a GC choice if international or book choice from the Updated (**Finally!) ARC/Review titles or (recently updated) Love and Christmas titles - all linked near the end of the post. -- [12/15/18 I am pulling out some new Christmas and Love titles to add to the Win box choices. I had to move the books due to the water threat in office. I will dig them out again soon.]

**NOTE: I did post an Updated ARC and Other books for Giveaways. I have to go back and list the titles -- someday.
Please let me know your choice by completing the WINNER FORM.

WEEK #373

(One Question.)

Marjorie asks: I have become quite inspired by the HGTV shows, do you enjoy this type of show??

I occasionally will watch some of the HGTV shows as I like real estate hunting and remodeling.

Image found at HGTV.com.

Thanks to those who are sending in Questions. DON'T BE SHY! Surely everyone has a Q or two you'd like to ask. Input suggestions in this Suggested Question Form. At the end of each month I draw from the suggestions I used during the month and that person will get a 1/2 book choice or $2.50 towards 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: I have become quite inspired by the HGTV shows, do you enjoy this type of show??

SBB Comment Winners can choose a selection from the Updated ARC and Other books, including the "Love" and Christmas titles all in one post.

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 July 27, 2019 at 5 PM central.

Audible Book Review: Monster Hunter Memoirs:Sinners by Larry Correia, John Ringo

This is an easy, fun listen.
Monster Hunter Memoirs: Sinners
By: Larry Correia, John Ringo
Narrated by: Oliver Wyman

Series: Monster Hunter Memoirs, Book 2, Monster Hunter , Book 2
Length: 10 hrs and 30 mins
Unabridged Audiobook
Release date: 12-06-16
Language: English
Publisher: Audible Studios
Genre: Fantasy, Paranormal, Urban Fantasy
My Rating: 4.5 of 5.0 Overall; Story 4.25; Narration 4.75

Publisher's Summary
A new novel in the Monster Hunter Memoirs series. Two authors, who combined have over four million books in print and 10 New York Times best sellers, team up to expand Larry Correia's Monster Hunter universe!
Nightmare in the Big Easy
With New Orleans out of control, Chad Oliver Gardenier, one of Monster Hunter International's premier hunters, has been dispatched from Seattle to reinforce the beleaguered members of MHI'S Hoodoo Squad in their fight against the darkness.
Chad had once taken a werewolf while wearing only jogging gear. With half a dozen or more loup garou appearing every full moon, mysterious shadow demons, houdoun necromancers, 50-foot bipedal crocodiles showing up every couple of months, and more vampires than a Goth concert, New Orleans in the '80s gives a whole new perspective to the term hell on earth. In fact more monsters are popping up than crawfish at a fais do do! Chad may be able to collect enormous bounties for the monsters he kills. But there's one catch: He has to stay alive to do it!
©2016 Larry Correia and John Ringo (P)2016 Audible, Inc.

Review:
Chad Oliver Gardenier took the chance to get out of Seattle where he had a target on his back for messing with a young (40 year old) elf. Chad doesn’t like the heat of Louisiana but soon realizes that he likes the food, the women and the busy hunting action, not necessarily in that order.

New Orleans is experiencing an increase of supernatural creatures and it is important for the forces who fight the monsters to get control of the infestations before the issues leak to the pubic at large. The local communities aren’t such a problem since they are inclined to believe in the paranormal and magic and most of the people love the HooDoo squad.

I liked the more relaxed relationship between the Monster Hunter International (MHI) team and the local authorities including the local officers in the Federal Monster Control Bureau (MCB). The MCB is tasked with keeping supernatural from the public eye. When an incident occurs the MCB have a clean up crew and a mostly reasonable accidental explanation for the damage and deaths.

I was glad to listen to this cheeky monster hunting journal in the MHI universe. This series is full of action and humor. Chad is fun although on the wild side as a Casanova aka Player. He feels his exuberance in life is justified since he expects to die soon considering the nature of his business fighting werewolves (loup garou), vampires, zombies, strange squid, giant (elephant size) mole rats and eventually giant land scrambling, people eating lobsters (or similar crustacean). Chad actually does have a soft side for his friends and teammates and he tries to save the innocent bystanders whenever he can. This comes out even with some bad language and lots of ‘battle’ action.

It was nice to have some regular MHI characters join the New Orleans battle including, Earl, Ray, Milo and even MCB Agent Franks. This story is presented as a journal of Chad’s early days in New Orleans. The journal includes fun and serious tips for younger hunters and fun details regarding the Puff bounties which were numerous. I recommend this to those who already love the MHI series and as a fun listen to someone who might want to try the series.

Audio Notes: Oliver Wyman does a wonderful job narrating this series. I love his emotional energy as well as his multiple voices. Listening is a wonderfully entertaining experience.

Source: July 2017 Audible Sale $4.95. This qualifies for 2019TBR and 2019Audiobook goal.

Martha's Bookshelf***Friday Pick Giveaway July 12, 2019

Happy Friday! Busy work week this week. Working to get caught up --- still.

TO ENTER FRIDAY PICK

US Entrants: Leave a comment and tell me WHICH BOOK you would like to get from the Friday Pick lists.

INTERNATIONAL: Leave a comment indicating "Gift Card" (see further comments near the end of the post.)

CUT OFF TIME IS THURSDAY NIGHTS AT 9:00 PM CENTRAL so I do not have to stay up too late to do the winner post! I will randomly pick two winners to announce Friday mornings with the next Pick post.

Thank you to all who entered the July 5, 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. There was one title blocked this week.

CONGRATULATIONS
to Random.org picked Winners from July 5 2019 Pick:
ALINA gets a GC
and
Life's Simple Pleasures 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.}

This is another nice beach scene!
Image found at World Magazine.

New Book Group #86 June 7, 2019
Another group of variety from my shelves.

SINGLES:
Forged in Steel by Maya Banks
The Scam by Janet Evanovich and Lee Goldberg
A Place Called Freedom by Ken Follett
Eco-Sisters: The Car by P. Ryan Hembree and Mary Ann Gustin
Forget Me Not by Vicki Hinze
Preaching to the Corpse by Roberta Isleib
Show No Fear by Marliss Melton
Pursuit by Karen Robards
Murder at Granite Falls by Roxanne Rustand
A Question of God's Balance (Vol 1) by Joseph Thek
King by Right of Blood and Might by Anna L. Walls


New Book Group #85 March 22, 2019
A variety from my shelves.

Roxanne Becknel: When Lightning Strikes
SINGLES:
Summer Skies by Judith Christenberry
Windfall (two stories) by JoAnn Ross
Daddy's Little Cowgirl (two stories) by Judith Bowen and Kimberly Raye
Almost Forever by Linda Howard
The Forever Year, Cold Pursuit, Lover's Lane and Temporary Sanity (Reader's Condensed)
ToxiCity by Libby Fischer Hillmann

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
On this Holy Night
A Rancher for Christmas
Christmas Haven
Christmas Homecoming
King Harold's Snow Job


New Book Group #83 November 30, 2018

(Starting bottom left and continuing up then down)
SINGLE
Seductive Secrets by Lynne Connolly
Seven Up by Janet Evanovich - Audio Cassettes
A Good Walk Spoiled by John Feinstein Audio Cassettes
Three 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

Stella Cameron: Key West
SINGLES:
Magic Strikes by Ilona Andrews
Killing Time by Linda Howard
Countess of Scandal by Laurel McKee
The Wedding Night by Barbara Dawson Smith

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
James Patterson
SINGLES:
Summer’s Moon
The Final Judgment Audio Cassettes
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)
Dakota Child by Linda Ford
Calling the Shots by Ellen Hartman
Promises, Promises by Amber Miller
This Time for Keeps by Jenna Mills
A Daughter’s Legacy by Virginia Smith
Another Man’s Baby by Kay Stockham


New Book Group #78 April 27, 2018

SINGLES
Blackberry Bush
Breaking Point
A Tangled Affair
To Wicked to Love
Roses are Red Audio Cassettes


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
The Scorpion Seducer by Bonnie Vanak
Hell On Earth by David L. Porter
White Night by Jim Butcher
Riders of the Purple Sage by Zane Grey
The Glimpses of the Moon by Edith Wharton
Crisscross by Harmon Henkin
Maelstrom by Anne McCaffrey
Inhuman Condition by Clive Barker
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
Bound by Destiny by Rayka Mennen
Rainbow Mars by Larry Niven

(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 1,257+ 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!

#NetGalley Book Review: Every Last Breath by Juno Rushdan

This is fast-paced romantic suspense with intense situations and characters.

Every Last Breath
by Juno Rushdan

File Size: 1898 KB
Print Length: 448 pages
Publisher: Sourcebooks Casablanca (April 30, 2019)
ASIN: B07L434K5L
Genre: Action Adventure, Romantic Suspense, Terrorism Thriller
My Rating: 4.5 of 5.0

48 hours, 2 covert operatives, 1 chance to get it right
Maddox Kinkade is an expert at managing the impossible. Tasked with neutralizing a lethal bioweapon, she turns to the one person capable of helping her stop the threat of pandemic in time: the love of her life, back from the dead and mad as hell at her supposed betrayal. Recruiting Cole to save millions of lives may be harder than resisting the attraction still burning between them, but Maddox will do whatever it takes...even if it destroys her.
When Maddox crashes back into Cole Matthews' life, he wants to fight back. He wants to hate her. But the crisis is too strong to ignore, and soon the two former lovers find themselves working side-by-side in a breakneck race to stop a world-class killer with a secret that could end everything.
The clock is ticking.
A race-against-time romantic thriller, perfect for fans of JD Robb and Mary Burton!

Review:
Maddox is a specialized CIA agent whose Gray Box team has been tasked with tracking, capturing the terrorists and recovering a stolen bioweapon. Maddox and her team have just returned from a mission and aren’t at 100% but they are ready to roll. Her superiors know that she could use extra help so they send the team to retrieve a non-CIA ‘asset’, Cole Matthews. The team shows up just in time to rescue Cole from a kidnapping by Russians. That is a bit of surprise but even more shocking to Maddox is the moment she sees Cole’s face.

Maddox knows this man as her almost fiancé who supposedly died nine years ago. She knows she made a mistake in betraying his family, but she went through extreme pain when she thought he was dead and has never moved on to another love. To cope with her losses, Maddox immersed herself in CIA training ending up in a covert organization. Maddox can’t understand how her first love could have allowed her to go through that pain of loss and she is livid. The only reason she would be willing to work with ‘Cole’ is the threat to innocent lives.

Cole created a new persona after Maddox’s betrayal devastated his family. He became a security specialist with the added background of assassin training. He never expected to see Maddox again and isn’t thrilled with the idea the agency he has always hated wants to use him. But once they pull him into the mission, there is no way he is going to let Maddox fight the danger without his protection.

The team knows the extreme risk of the bioweapon but they don’t realize the depth of the focused revenge intended by the enemy. Added to the dangerous mission is the discovery by the team that there is a mole in the base and they don’t know who they can trust.

This book in one word is “Intense”. The characters, Maddox and Cole, are intense ‘warriors’ aka operatives, who have personal history. The plot is suspenseful, tension-filled and intense. The same is true of the relationship between Maddox and Cole, plus there is a good dose of passion – both in anger and in chemistry. Their time together sizzles and sometimes they have to step back and remember the mission they have to complete before they can address all of their own issues. The story resolves the mission but leaves open the identity of the mole. I will be glad to read the next book in the series.

This has an excellent blend of tension, action and romance; Romantic Suspense just the way I like it. I highly recommend this to readers who like intense romantic suspense.

Source: NetGalley 2019. This qualifies for 2019NetGalley goal.