Martha's 2018 Reading Summary and Favorites

I completed and exceeded my 2018 Goodreads Challenge of 160 by finishing 186 books.

This is a screen shot of my 2018 Year in Books and here is the link to the full report.

See below for my list of favorites.

I (just barely) met my NetGalley goal to read 50 NetGalley titles and finished the year with my NetGalley rating still at 91%.


Here is my 2018 Bible App Snapshot.
I started January 4 or 5.I finished four reading plans including the One Year Bible.



2018 Reading Breakdown:
Total TBR: 104
Total Audio: 106
Total NetGalley: 50
Total Author or Publicist Reviews: 19
eBooks (including TBR and Review, but not NetGalley): 24
Print books: 11
New Authors: 114
Books in Series: 115;
   Series Completed 2:

American Rising (3 books)
Sookie Stakehouse (book 13)

   Series Up To Date waiting for next book::

Destroymen Series Read 13
Charley Davidson Read 12

[The totals on these fall short of the 186 but they are close enough to give an idea of the genres I read.]
Fantasy, including horror, paranormal and urban: 52
Sci Fi, including dystopian and post apocalyptic: 44
Romantic, including Christian, Historical and Suspense: 30
Mystery, Thriller and Cozy: 20
Christian, Inspirational: 10
NonFiction: 9
Children/Middle Grade: 9
Historical Fiction: 6

AND HERE ARE THE MBS FAVORITES of 2018 Reading - listed in order read.
I apparently do a good job of picking titles I like since 41% rate 4.5 stars and higher. :-)
Code for the list is:
A = Audible; ABJ = Audiobook Jukebox; ABB = Audiobook Boom
e = eBook; eA = eBook from Author; eT = eBook from Tour
NG = NetGalley
P = Print; PT = Print from Tour
LBC = Ladies Book Club
TBR = From the TBR shelves prior to 2017

5 Star Reads - 13 out of 186 = 7%:

1. ATBR- Audible Book Review: Golden Son, Red Rising Trilogy, Book II, by Pierce Brown; Dystopian, Fantasy, Sci Fi; my rating 5.0.
2. ATBR- Audible Book Review: Warship by Joshua Dalzelle; Sci Fi, Space Opera; my rating 5.0.
3. ATBR- Goodreads Audio Book Review: She Stoops to Conquer by Oliver Goldsmith; Classic, Poetry & Drama; my rating 5.0.
4. ATBR- Audible Book Review: Warship by Joshua Dalzelle; Sci Fi, Space Opera; my rating 5.0.
5. PLBC- Book Review: Know Your Bible by Paul Kent; Christian, Inspirational, Religious; my rating 5.0.
6. ATBR- Audible Book Review: Koban: The Mark of Koban, Volume 2 by Stephen W. Bennett; Alien Invasion, Colonization, Sci Fi, Space Opera; my rating 5.0.
7. Goodreads Review ATBR- Audible Book Review: Beneath the Skin The Sam Hunter Case Files By Jonathan Maberry; Fantasy, Paranormal, Short story Collection; my rating 4.5 for story (language); Narration and Overall 5.0.
8. AB2018- Audiobook Review: The Quest for Cosmic Justice by Thomas Sowell; Jurisprudence, Non-Fiction, Social Studies; my rating: 5.0 of 5.0.
9. NG2018- #NetGalley Book Review: The Rancher's Gift by Dennis Worden and Jeff Dunn; Christian, Inspirational, Religion; my rating: 5.0 of 5.0.
10. ATBR- Audible Book Review: The Emperor's Soul by Brandon Sanderson; Fantasy, Supernatural, Thriller; my rating: 5.0 of 5.0 Overall, Story and Audio.
11. A2018- Audible Book Review: How to Marry a Werewolf, A Claw & Courtship Novella, Book 1, by Gail Carriger; Paranormal Romance, Werewolves; my rating: 5.0 of 5.0 Overall, Story and Audio.
12. NG2018- When Spring Comes to the DMZ by Uk-Bae Lee (Author, Illustrator); 5.0
13. eBTBR- One Year Bible 5.0

4.75 Stars - 9 of 186 = 4.83%

1. NGTBR-#NetGalley Book Review: Rise of the Fallen: Wars of the Realm, Book 2 by Chuck Black; Action/Adventure, Christian, Fantasy; my rating 4.75.
2. ATBR- Audible Book Review: For We Are Many by Dennis E. Taylor; Sci Fi; my rating 4.75.
3. NGTBR- #NetGalley Review: The Forgotten Beasts of Eld by Patricia A. McKillip; Fantasy, Magical, Romance; my rating 4.75.
4. ATBR- Audible Book Review: Portrait in Death by J.D. Robb; Female Detective, Mystery; my rating 4.75.
5. Goodreads Review ATBR- Audible Book Review: Columbus Day (Expeditionary Force #1) by Craig Alanson; Alien, First Contact, Sci Fi, Space Marine; my rating 4.75.
6. PLBCTBR- Book Review: The Letters by Suzanne Woods Fisher; Amish, Christian, Romance; my rating 4.75.
7. 2018LBC Print- Book Review: One Perfect Spring by Irene Hannon; Contemporary Romance, Inspirational; my rating: 4.75 of 5.0.
8. NG2018- #NetGalley Book Review: Silent Threat (Mission Recovery Book 1) by Dana Marton; Military, Romantic Suspense; my rating: 4.75 of 5.0.
9. A2018- Audible Book Review: The Watchmaker's Daughter by C. J. Archer; Fantasy, Historical, Mystery; my rating: Overall 4.75 of 5.0; Narration: 5.0 of 5.0.

4.5 Stars - 54 out of 186 = 29.18%

MBS 2018 Reading List - JANUARY

1. NGTBR- #NetGalley Book Review: What If God Wrote Your To-Do List? by Jay Payleitner; Christian Living, Inspirational, Religion & Spirituality; my rating 4.5.
2. PTBR- Book Review: Seek and Destroy (America Rising) by William C. Dietz; Alternate History, Military Sci Fi, Post-Apocalyptic; my rating 4.5.
3. NGTBR- #NetGalley Book Review: A Gem of a Problem by Irene Sauman; Cozy Mystery, Historical; my rating 4.5.

MBS 2018 Reading List - FEBRUARY

1. ATBR- Audible Book Review: Brothers in Valor, Man of War, Book 3 by H. Paul Honsinger; Sci Fi, Military, Space Opera; my rating 4.5.
2. eBookAuthor- Book Review: The Billionaire's Sweet Valentine (Holiday Contest) by Laura L. Walker; Clean Romance, Holiday; my rating 4.5.
3. P-LBC- Book Review: When the Heart Cries by Cindy Woodsmall; Amish, Romance; my rating 4.5.

MBS 2018 Reading List - MARCH

1. PLBCTBR- Book Review: When the Morning Comes by Cindy Woodsmall; Amish, Romance; my rating 4.5.
2. ATBR- Audible Book Review: Quarter Share by Nathan Lowell; Mercantile, Sci Fi, Space Opera; my rating 4.5.
3. NGTBR- #NetGalley Book Review: In Wolves' Clothing by Greg Levin; Crime Fiction, Thriller; my rating 4.5.

MBS 2018 Reading List - APRIL

1. ATBR- The Selfish Giant by Oscar Wild; my rating 4.5.
2. ATBR- Audible Book Review: Devil's Due: Destroyermen, Book 12, by Taylor Anderson; Alternate History, Sci Fi; my rating 4.5.
3. 2018NG- #NetGalley Book Review: Out of the Box by Jemma Westing; Children, Crafts; my rating 4.5.
4. ATBR- Audible Book Review: The Never Hero by T. Ellery Hodges; Action & Adventure, Fantasy, Time Travel; my rating 4.5.

MBS 2018 Reading List - MAY

1. ATBR- Audible Book Review: NPCs by Drew Hayes; Fantasy, Humor; my rating 4.5.
2. ATBR- Audible Book Review: Aspire by Kevin Hall; Communication, Inspirational, Self-Development; my rating 4.5.
3. NG2018- #NetGalley Book Review: Nick Newton is Not a Genius by S.E.M Ishida; Adventure, Clockwork, Middle Grade, Sci Fi; my rating 4.5.
4. ATBR- Audible Book Review: The Vanished Man: A Lincoln Rhyme Novel by Jeffery Deaver; Detective, Police Procedures; my rating 4.5.

MBS 2018 Reading List - JUNE

1. LBC-Book Review: Stranger Things by Erin Healy; Christian Suspense, Crime; my rating 4.5.
2. #NetGalley Book Review: The Voice Inside by Brian Freeman; Crime, Psychological Thrillers; my rating 4.5.
3. Goodreads Review 2018Author: Lance: A Spirit Unbroken by Walter Stoffel; Animal, Dog, Memoir; my rating 4.5.

MBS 2018 Reading List - JULY

1. ATBR- Audible Book Review: Heartless by Mary Balogh; Historical Romance; my rating 4.5; Narration 5.0.
2. NGTBR- #NetGalley Book Review: The After War by Brandon Zenner; Dystopian, Post-Apocalyptic; my rating 4.5.
3. A2018- #Audible Book Review: Frankenstein: Prodigal Son by Dean Koontz; Horror; my Rating: Overall 4.5; Story 4.0 of 5.0; Narration 5.0.
4. A2018- Audible Book Review: Audible Book Review: The Dispatcher by John Scalzi; Fantasy, Mystery, Sci Fi; my rating: Overall 4.5; Story 4.5 of 5.0; Narrator 4.5 of 5.0.
5. Goodreads Review ATBR- Blue Like Jazz: Nonreligious Thoughts on Christian Spirituality by Donald Miller; Discipleship, Memoir; my rating Narration and Overall 4.5.
6. NG2018- #NetGalley Book Review: Talon - epic fantasy novel (The Astor Chronicles Book 1) by Amanda Greenslade; Action & Adventure, Fantasy, Sword & Sorcery; my rating: 4.5 of 5.0.

MBS 2018 Reading List - AUGUST

1. Goodreads- A2018- Into the Storm (Iron Kingdoms) by Larry Correia, Ray Porter (Narrator); Fantasy, Military; my rating 4.5 of 5.0.
2. NG2018- #NetGalley Book Review: Jack Gilmour: Wish Lawyer by Ed Ryder; Noir, Paranormal, Urban Fantasy; my rating: 4.5 of 5.0.
3. Goodreads- A2018- River of Bones (Destroyermen, #13) by Taylor Anderson (Goodreads Author), William Dufris (Narrator); Alternate History, Sci Fi; my rating 4.5 of 5.0.
4. ATBR-Audible Book Review: Under a Tell-Tale Sky by R.E. McDermott; Post-Apocalyptic, Sci Fi; my rating: 4.5 of 5.0.
5. 2018eBook- Book Review: Must Love Babies by Lynnette Austin; Contemporary Romance, Small Town; my rating: 4.5 of 5.0.
6. ATBR- Audible Book Review: Because of Miss Bridgerton by Julia Quinn; Historical Romance; my rating 4.5 of 5.0.
7. 2018Review- Book Review: The Former Assassin by Nikki Stern; Suspense Thriller; my rating: 4.5 of 5.0.
8. NG2018- #NetGalley Book Review: Theodore and the Enchanted Bookstore: Tale of the Spectacular Spectacles; Children, Dogs, Pets; my rating: 4.5 of 5.0.

MBS 2018 Reading List - SEPTEMBER

1. A2018- Audible Book Review: All These Worlds, Bobiverse Book 3, by Dennis E. Taylor; Military Space, Sci Fi; my rating 4.5 of 5.0.
2. PTBRLBC - Book Review: Mother of Pearl by Kellie Coates Gilbert; Christian, Contemporary Fiction, Women's Fiction; my rating: 4.5 of 5.0.
3. A2018- Audible Book Review: The Lilac Bouquet by Carolyn Brown; Contemporary Romance, Small Town; my rating: 4.5 of 5.0 Overall, Story and Audio.

MBS 2018 Reading List - OCTOBER

1. ATBR- Audible Book Review: The Last Colony, Old Man's War, Book 3 by John Scalzi; Colonization, Genetic Engineering, Sci Fi; my rating: 4.5 of 5.0.
2. ATBR- Audio Book Review: Back in the Saddle: A Novel (Double S Ranch Series, Book #1) by Ruth Logan Herne; Christian, Contemporary, Romance, Western; my rating: 4.5 of 5.0 Story and Narration.

MBS 2018 Reading List - NOVEMBER

1. NG2018- #NetGalley Book Review: For Us Humans by Steve Rzasa; Aliens, Christian, Futuristic, Sci Fi; my rating: 4.5 of 5.0.
2. ATBR- Audible Book Review: Hunter by Mercedes Lackey; Fantasy; my rating: 4.5 of 5.0 Overall, Story and Narration.
3. NG2018- #NetGalley Book Review: Kill Shot by Susan Sleeman; Christian, Mystery, Romantic Suspense; my rating: 4.5 of 5.0.
4. eTBR- Book Review: Christmas at Draycott Abbey (Draycott Abbey Romance) by Christina Skye; Ghost, Paranormal, Romantic Suspense; my rating: 4.5 of 5.0.

MBS 2018 Reading List - DECEMBER

1. ATBR- Audible Book Review: Jacob T. Marley by R. William Bennet; Ghosts, Inspirational; My rating: 4.5 of 5.0 Overall, 4.5 Story and 5.0 Narration.
2. NG2018- #NetGalley Book Review: Decluttering at the Speed of Life: Winning Your Never-Ending Battle with Stuff by Dana K. White; Cleaning, Hoarding, How To; my rating: 4.5 of 5.0.
3. ATBR- Audible Book Review: Villains Rule (The Shadow Master Book 1) by M. K. Gibson; Fantasy, Humor, Sci Fi; my rating: 4.5 of 5.0 Overall, 4.25 Story and 5.0 Narration.
4. ATBR- Audible Book Review: All Systems Red by Martha Wells; AI, Sci Fi, Short Story; my rating: 4.5 of 5.0 Overall, 4.5 Story and 5.0 Narration.
5. ATBR- Goodreads Audio Book Review: Gather ‘Round the Sound: Holiday Stories from Beloved Authors and Great Performers Across the Globe; Christmas; my rating: 4.5 of 5.0 Overall, 4.25 Story and 5.0 Narration.
6. NG2018- #NetGalley Book Review: Patience for Christmas: A Holiday Novella; Historical Romance, Holiday, Regency; my rating: 4.5 of 5.0.
7. NG2018 and A2018- #NetGalley and Audible Book Review: The Trouble with Twelfth Grave by Darynda Jones; Fantasy, Ghosts, Private Investigator; my rating: 4.5 Overall; 4.25 Story; 5.0 Narration.
8. NG2018- #NetGalley Book Review: 101 Chicken Keeping Hacks from Fresh Eggs Daily: Tips, Tricks, and Ideas for You and your Hen by Lisa Steele; Animal Husbandry, DIY, Nonfiction, Reference; my rating: 4.5 of 5.0.
9. NG2018- A Book Without Dragons by Berrier, Olivia; 4.5
10. NG2018- Blind Betrayal (Defenders of Justice Book #3) by Nancy Mehl; 4.5
11. NG2018- Owl Love You by Matthew Heroux, Wednesday Kirwan (Illustrations); 4.5

Martha's Bookshelf***Friday Pick Giveaway January 4, 2019

Happy First Friday of 2019!

Are you looking forward to any special books as the New Year starts?

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 December 28 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. No title was blocked.
SUE F gets Plum Lovin'

CONGRATULATIONS
to Random.org picked Winners from December 28 Pick:
FREDAMANS gets a GC
and
DI gets Hot Pursuit

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 have found some great author quotes to share for January 2019.
Image Found at Pinterest.

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:

No One Left to Tell is MP3
Kisscut is Cassettes
Dark Summer is CDs
Pairs:
Kay Hooper and
Carla Neggers Red Clover Inn
SINGLES
Cold Pursuit by Carla Neggers
Best Laid Plans
Bound For Murder
Asking for Murder
Pretty Poison
Darkness Tell Us
Last Writes (A Jaine Austen Mystery Series Book 2) by Laura Levine
Don’t Tell a Soul by S. K. McClafferty - MSE has on Kindle 2013
Zombies of the Gene Pool
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 1,211+ 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 (First Book 2019): The Prayer of Jesus by Kevin Jackson

This is a fine book to learn, or remember, the power of The Lord's Prayer.

The Prayer of Jesus
by Kevin Jackson

File Size: 2047 KB
Print Length: 146 pages
Publisher: The Association of Christian Businesses (May 13, 2014)
ASIN: B00KC8FVWC
Genre: Christian, Spiritual Growth
My Rating: 4.5 of 5.0

The Bible contains over three hundred references to prayer, and yet, eighty-five percent of believers are dissatisfied with their prayer lives. In The Prayer of Jesus, pastor, teacher, and author Kevin Jackson bridges the gap between the responsibility of prayer and the dissatisfaction we experience in prayer. He explains and applies the simple model for prayer which Jesus taught His original disciples. If you want to have a better, more consistent prayer life, then The Prayer of Jesus is the book for you.

Review:
I chose this book as my First Book of 2019 because I felt the need to strengthen my prayer life. As often is the case it is a good thing to go back to basics when you need a refresher.

Kevin Jackson doesn’t use a new prayer, but he uses the best prayer example: what most of us know as The Lord’s Prayer from Matthew 6:9-13. He separates the prayer into eight distinct petitions and then expands on the depth and import of each line. He shares other supporting scripture and attributes of God.

I liked how the study was set forth and I appreciated the questions at the end of each section. These give the reader the opportunity for self-examination and response to make sure the importance of the lesson has been absorbed. The end of each chapter also shares scripture references for added depth and then some example prayers using the petition.

After completing the study of the eight petitions, Mr. Jackson shares other prayer guidelines that can be used to add focus to daily prayers. Although I might not use the technique shared in this book for long stretches, I will implement it for a time to remind me of these petitions and the correct focus: getting to know God more deeply, not seeking things from Him. I think I might also find it helpful to include this prayer in my daily prayer time.

I was raised in a liturgical church where we said The Lord’s Prayer every Sunday. Perhaps that became a bit routine but for me it always had power to it. I have been in more evangelical, fundamental churches for the past 33 years or so and realize that I miss the power of saying The Lord’s Prayer and a few other choice prayers that I have in my childhood confirmation gift book, In God's Presence. I have started keeping that book with me. Now I just need to open it more often – maybe daily!

I appreciate this study by Kevin Jackson and recommend it to those who may not be regularly familiar with The Lord’s Prayer and also to those who need to be reminded of the purpose and power in prayer by looking at the Lord’s own example.

This is my First Book of 2019 title.
Source: 2014 Kindle TBR. This qualifies for TBR and Alphabet Challenge.

MBS December 2018 Reading List Wrap Up

MBS 2018 Reading List - DECEMBER

Code for the list is:
A = Audible; ABJ = Audiobook Jukebox; ABB = Audiobook Boom
eB = eBook; eA = eBook from Author; eT = eBook from Tour
NG = NetGalley
P = Print; PT = Print from Tour
LBC = Ladies Book Club
TBR = From the TBR shelves prior to 2017
Favorites for December:
5.0 rating: When Spring Comes to the DMZ and One Year Bible.
There were 11 4.5 titles:
Favs are: Patience for Christmas, A Book Without Dragons and Blind Betrayal.

1. ATBR- Audible Book Review: We'll Always Have Christmas by Jenny Hale; Holiday Romance, Inspirational; My Rating: 4.0 of 5.0, Overall, Story, and Narration.
2. ATBR- Audible Book Review: Jacob T. Marley by R. William Bennet; Ghosts, Inspirational; My Rating: 4.5 of 5.0 Overall, 4.5 Story and 5.0 Narration.
3. NG2018- #NetGalley Book Review: Decluttering at the Speed of Life: Winning Your Never-Ending Battle with Stuff by Dana K. White; Cleaning, Hoarding, How To; My Rating: 4.5 of 5.0.
4. ATBR- Audible Book Review: Villains Rule (The Shadow Master Book 1) by M. K. Gibson; Fantasy, Humor, Sci Fi; My Rating: 4.5 of 5.0 Overall, 4.25 Story and 5.0 Narration.
5. ATBR- Audible Book Review: All Systems Red by Martha Wells; AI, Sci Fi, Short Story; My Rating: 4.5 of 5.0 Overall, 4.5 Story and 5.0 Narration.
6. ATBR- Goodreads Audio Book Review: Gather ‘Round the Sound: Holiday Stories from Beloved Authors and Great Performers Across the Globe; Christmas; My Rating: 4.5 of 5.0 Overall, 4.25 Story and 5.0 Narration.
7. NG2018- #NetGalley Book Review: A Chance at Christmas by Beppie Harrison; Christmas, Historical Romance, Holiday Romance, Regency; My Rating: 4.25 of 5.0.
8. NG2018- #NetGalley Book Review: Someone to Trust by Mary Balogh; Historical Romance, Holiday, Regency; My Rating: 4.0 of 5.0.
9. ATBR- Audio Book Review: 'Tis the Season (Main Street #3) by Ann M. Martin; Family Life, Holiday, Middle Grade, Tween; My Rating: 4.0 of 5.0, Overall, Story and Narration.
10. ATBR- Audible Book Review: The Autobiography of Santa Claus by Jeff Guinn; Biographical, Folklore, Memoir; My Rating: 4.0 of 5.0 Overall, Story and Narration.
11. NG2018- #NetGalley Book Review: Patience for Christmas: A Holiday Novella; Historical Romance, Holiday, Regency; My Rating: 4.5 of 5.0.
12. NG2018 and A2018- #NetGalley and Audible Book Review: The Trouble with Twelfth Grave by Darynda Jones; Fantasy, Ghosts, Private Investigator; My Rating: 4.5 Overall; 4.25 Story; 5.0 Narration.
13. NG2018- #NetGalley Book Review: 101 Chicken Keeping Hacks from Fresh Eggs Daily: Tips, Tricks, and Ideas for You and your Hen by Lisa Steele; Animal Husbandry, DIY, Nonfiction, Reference; My Rating: 4.5 of 5.0.
14. NG2018- #NetGalley Book Review: Slay Bells: A Christmas Village Mystery by T.C. Wescott; Christmas, Cozy Mystery; My Rating: 4.0 of 5.0.
15. ATBR- Tis the Season by Beth Harbison – 16 minute Audio short story – no review.
16. ATBR- Audible Book Review: Escape from the Overworld: A Minecraft Gamer's Quest by Danica Davidson; Adventure, Bullies, Sci Fi; My Rating: 4.0 of 5.0 Overall, Story and Narration. 
17.  NG2018- A Book Without Dragons by Berrier, Olivia 4.5
18. eBTBR- Xoe: Vampires, and Werewolves, and Demons, oh my! (Xoe Meyers Young Adult Fantasy/Horror Series Book 1) by Sara C. Roethle  
19. NG2018- Blind Betrayal (Defenders of Justice Book #3) by Nancy Mehl  4.5
20. NG2018- The Cat in the Christmas Tree: A Magical Tail by Peter Scottsdale  
21. A2018- Storm Glass (Harbinger, Book 1) by: Jeff Wheeler  
22. eBTBR- One Year Bible 5.0
23. NG2018- When Spring Comes to the DMZ by Uk-Bae Lee (Author, Illustrator)  5.0
24. NG2018- Owl Love You by Matthew Heroux, Wednesday Kirwan (Illustrations) 4.5 
    
25. NG2018- Fury: An Urban Fantasy & Mystery (The Fae Awakening Book 1) by Will O'Shire

I read/listened to 25 this month (Bible was all year) as I had to squeeze in an additional 9 NetGalley titles to complete that Challenge. I was hoping to read more eBook TBRs but that didn't happen.

December Total read = 25; TBR = 8; New Authors = 18
Audio/Audible = 11 (6 TBRs)
eBook = 2 (2 TBRs)
NetGalley = 13 (0 TBRs)
Print = 0 (0 TBR)

Happy New Year 2019!

As I wish Happy New Year to all, I acknowledge my Creator!
May God Bless us all in the New Year!

I pray that I might seek God's Will more fully this year.

1 Peter 1:3 (NIV)
Praise to God for a Living Hope
3 Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ! In his great mercy he has given us new birth into a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead