Sunday Post January 1, 2023/It's Monday! What are You Reading? Plus Mailbox Monday January 2, 2023

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.

Happy New Year!
I hope everyone had a lovely two weeks while I was away from computer visiting family. I only opened the computer to assist Heather with a couple of work related files.

I drove to Illinois to visit my son and his family since my d-i-l is having surgery for the returned cancer on January 3. It was too much for the five of them to drive down.
My eldest granddaughter here in Florida went up with me. She just had her 15th birthday so doesn't have her learners driving permit yet but maybe next visit she can help drive the 787 miles.
I took three days up and back instead of the usual two. Going up I was worried about driving in snow and ice. Fortunately, the highways were cleared and I had only a short time driving through light snow flurries. Coming home was not so nice as we drove several hours through rain. 

The only bad snow was at our hotel the second night. This made it hard to walk the dogs!
Long haired and fluffy Bear almost played in the snow, but short haired Princess could barely keep her feet down.

My Illinois grandchildren each gave me a special gift - a "beautiful Grandma" cup for my daily coffee or tea, a make-up sponge to help me look better, and a fluffy pen because "Grandma writes a lot".

Have you made any New Year Resolutions? Mine is: more decluttering, which may include less computering. I'll be setting up some goals for reading but may do less blogging.

My prayers include prayers for more unity in all nations and a calmer atmosphere in 2023.

I am so glad to be home. I drove a short two hours the storm day (Thursday 12/22) but that meant I set out to face 5 and 1 degree weather (-9 wind chill) and snow - brrrr.
It warmed up after Christmas and I returned home to temps in the 60s with a range this week from low of 37 to  high of 76.

I wish everyone a Year full of health, peace, and love - which are the best features of prosperity!

I finished five audios plus my 2022 Bible plan. I barely turned on the computer this trip so I could spend more time with the family and less online.

I did no visiting over the past two weeks.
No Shout outs until I get settled in to computing again. I hope you continue to enjoy visiting blog friends.

Audiobooks.com is still sharing some free listens for children.

• Sunday Post December 18, 2022/It's Monday! What are You Reading? Plus Mailbox Monday December 19, 2022.

• No Friday Post - Traveling.
  

• First Book of the Year 2023: The Return of the Gods by Jonathan Cahn.
  

• Sunday Words of Encouragement January 1, 2023 - God's Expectations.
  

Finished Reading:

1. Audible Smartphone (A2022)

Joy to the Wolves
By Terry Spear
Narrated By: Mackenzie Cartwright
Duration: 10 h 28 min
I enjoyed the mystery and the distrust turning to romance elements.

Source: 9/26/2021 Audiobooks.com Two for One Credit.
Click on book title for full description.

2. Audible Smartphone (ATBR)

Crisis Shot: The Line of Duty, Book 1
By: Janice Cantore
Narrated by: Alice Anne English
Series: The Line of Duty, Book 1
Length: 9 hrs and 34 mins
I enjoyed this Christian police procedure thriller and will want to get more in the series.
Source: 1/2021 Audible Plus Catalog.
Publisher's Summary
Tess O'Rourke dreams of becoming the first female chief of police in Long Beach, California. As commander of the East Division, she is well on her way...until the night she responds to an officer-needs-assistance call and fatally shoots an unarmed teenager. Despite being cleared of wrongdoing by a grand jury, Tess is so hounded by the public that she takes a job in Oregon to escape the bad press.
Winning over the residents of Rogue's Hollow might be more difficult than adjusting to her new role as police chief in the small backwater town - especially when her closest friend, the pastor's wife, goes missing and the woman's cousin is found shot. Tess finds an ally in sheriff's deputy Steve Logan, but as they track down Rogue's Hollow's first murderer, she worries that she's breaking one of her rules and getting too close to him.
©2017 Janice Cantore (P)2017 Two Words Publishing LLC

3. Audible Smartphone (ATBR)

North! Or Be Eaten
The Wingfeather Saga, Book 2
By: Andrew Peterson
Narrated by: Andrew Peterson
Length: 12 hrs and 1 min
Release date: 01-05-21
This was good adventure and I was able to watch the earlier book (now a series on Angel Studios) with my grandchildren.
Source: 4/8/2021 March Audible Credit.
Click on book title for full description.

4. YouVersion Bible App on Smartphone (2022)

BibleProject | One Story that Leads to Jesus
358 Days
I started this in January 2022 and continued to complete it.
Source: YouVersion Bible Plan.
One Story that Leads to Jesus is a plan designed by BibleProject to inspire and equip you to read through the entire Bible in one year. This plan incorporates over 150 animated videos to engage you in the Bible’s brilliant literary design and flow of thought. Choose this one-year reading plan for an epic learning journey that helps you experience the Bible as a unified story that leads to Jesus.
Publisher
We would like to thank BibleProject for providing this plan. For more information, please visit: https://bibleproject.com

5. Audible Smartphone (ATBR)

The Secret, Book & Scone Society
By: Ellery Adams
Narrated by: Cris Dukehart
Series: The Secret, Book & Scone Society, Book 1
Length: 8 hrs and 31 mins
I had seen mixed reviews but I enjoyed this easy listen mystery.
Source: 5/6/18 Audible Daily Deal $2.95.
Publisher's Summary
Miracle Springs is a place of healing. Strangers flock there hoping that the natural hot springs, five-star cuisine, and renowned spa can cure their ills. And, if none of that works, they often find their way to Miracle Books, where, over a fresh-baked scone from the Gingerbread House bakery, they exchange their stories with owner Nora Pennington in return for a carefully chosen book. That's Nora's special talent: prescribing the perfect novel to ease a person's deepest pain and lighten their heaviest burden.
But when a visiting businessman reaches out to Nora for guidance, he's found dead on the train tracks before he can keep their appointment. Determined to uncover the truth behind the businessman's demise, Nora forms the Secret, Book, and Scone Society, and, as the society works to untangle the web of corruption surrounding the murder, they also discover their own courage, purpose, and a sisterhood that will carry them through every challenge.
©2017 Ellery Adams (P)2017 Dreamscape Media, LLC

6. Audible Smartphone (ATBR)

Navigating the Stars
Sentinels of the Galaxy, Book 1
By: Maria V. Snyder
Narrated by: Gabra Zackman
Length: 10 hrs and 52 mins
Release date: 01-17-19
I loved other series by this author. I don’t know why it took me so long to enjoy this well written start to another series.
Source: 1/15/2020 December Audible Credit.
Publisher's Summary
“The answer is no, Lyra”, my mother utters her favorite - I swear - phrase.
No means I have to travel with them to another planet - again.
No means leaving all my friends 50 years in the past. Thanks, Einstein.
Seventeen-year-old Lyra Daniels can’t truly blame Einstein or her parents for their impending move across the Milky Way Galaxy. It’s all due to the invention of the Q-net, which made traveling the vast distances in space possible - with one big caveat: the time dilation. But that never stopped Lyra's ancestors from exploring the Milky Way, searching for resources and exoplanets to colonize. What they didn’t expect to find is life-sized terracotta warriors buried on 21 different exoplanets...Make that 22.
As the Galaxy’s leading experts on the warriors, Lyra's parents are thrilled by the new discovery, sending them - and her - 50 years into the future. Her social life in ruins, she fills her lonely days by illegally worming into the Q-net. The only person close to her age is the annoyingly irresistible security officer who threatens to throw her into the brig.
After the planet they just left goes silent - meaning no communications from them at all - security has bigger problems to deal with than Lyra, especially when vital data files go missing. But that's just the beginning, because they’re not as alone as they thought on their new planet...and suddenly time isn't the only thing working against them.
©2018 Maria V. Snyder (P)2019 Maria V. Snyder

Currently Reading:

1. Audible Smartphone (ATBR)

The Return of the Gods
By: Jonathan Cahn
Narrated by: Lawrence Richardson
Length: 8 hrs and 34 mins
I chose this for my First Book of 2023.
Source: 12/3122 Audible Credit.
Publisher's Summary
In The Return of the Gods, Cahn takes the listener on a journey from an ancient parable, the ancient inscriptions in Sumer, Assyria, and Babylonia that become the puzzle pieces behind what is taking place in our world to this day, specifically in America.
The mystery involves the gods. Who are they? What are they? And is it possible that these beings, whose origins are from ancient times, are the unseen catalysts of modern culture?
Is it possible that these gods lie behind the most pivotal events, forces, and movements taking place in our nation and around the world at this very moment? Are the gods at this very moment transforming our culture, our children, our lives, and America itself?
Could this mystery have even determined the exact days on which Supreme Court decisions had to be handed down?
What is the Dark Trinity?
Is it possible that what we in the modern world take as nothing more than ancient mythology could actually possess a reality beyond our fathoming?
Who is the Possessor? The Enchanter? The Destroyer? And the Sorceress?
Could a sign that has appeared all over America and the world be linked to the gods of Mesopotamia? And if so, what does it actually mean?
Could the gods have returned to New York City and an ancient mythology played out on the streets in real time?
Is it possible that the gods lie behind everything from what appears on our computer monitors, our televisions and movie screens; to the lessons given in our classrooms; to the breakdown of the family; to wokism; to the occult; to our addictions; to the Supreme Court; to cancel culture; to children's cartoons; to every force and factor that has transformed the parameters of gender; to that which appears in our stores, on our T-shirts, and on our coffee mugs—to that which is, at this very moment, transforming America and much of the world? Is it possible that behind all these things are ancient mysteries that go back to the Middle East and ancient Mesopotamia? This and so much more, most of which we can't even reveal in this description, will be uncovered.
Is it possible that the gods are even affecting your life right now? How can you recognize it? And what can you do about it?
The Return of the Gods is not only one of the most explosive books you'll ever listen to but also one of the most profound. It will reveal the most stunning secrets and truths behind what is happening before your eyes in America and the nations. You will see things, even in your world, in a whole new light. With such chapters as “The House of Spirits,” “The Avatar,” “The Masters,” “The Deep Magic,” and “The Day of the Goddess,” The Return of the Gods will take listeners on a fascinating, unforgettable, and mind-blowing journey that will leave them stunned and with the ability to see the world as they never have before.
Be prepared to be blown away as you open up Jonathan Cahn's most explosive book ever, The Return of the Gods!
©2022 Jonathan Cahn (P)2022 Frontline

2. Audible Smartphone (ATBR)

At Love's Command
By: Karen Witemeyer
Narrated by: Amy Rubinate
Length: 10 hrs and 5 mins
Release date: 06-09-20
I am enjoying this Historical Romance.
I started this on the drive home but set it aside to listen to First Book.
12/18/2021 November Audible Credit.
Publisher's Summary
Haunted by the horrors of war, ex-cavalry officer Matthew Hanger leads a band of mercenaries known as Hanger's Horsemen who have become legends in 1890s Texas. 
They defend the innocent and obtain justice for the oppressed. But when a rustler's bullet leaves one of them at death's door, they're the ones in need of saving. Dr. Josephine Burkett is used to men taking one look at her skirts and discounting her medical skills. What she's not used to is having a man change his mind in a heartbeat and offer to assist her in surgery. Matthew Hanger's dedication to his friend during recovery earns Josephine's respect, and when she hears of her brother's abduction, he becomes her only hope for rescue. 
Matt has stared down ruthless outlaws, betrayal, and injury, but when a bossy lady doctor crawls under his skin, his heart is tempted to surrender. And when she is caught in the crossfire, he may have to sacrifice everything - even his team - to save her.
©2020 Karen Witemeyer (P)2020 Recorded Books

I am still trying to decide if I want to read older TBR, pick from alphabet or go with all the favorites in series I have waiting! I have to start organizing my 2023 reading lists. 


January 1, 2023 -  I have started a new plan in YouVersion.  I totally enjoyed watching the devotion videos so I am doing another BibleProject plan: The Full Story - "From the beginning to the Amen" .  I have never done a Chronological reading before. I think I will enjoy it.

I finished five audio titles and reviewed none. I am now behind 10 reviews (not likely to get to the 7 children's books any time soon). I plan to work on year end posts and maybe a review in between.

NETGALLEY STATUS--
I have five titles from NetGalley.
I still have the three old ebook titles. I will probably end up letting A Place Called Armageddon go as DNF.
I have one author review in my queue that I need to start reading on my computer.
(Plus a few that I received from Facebook links and newsletter sign-ups, not specific review requests.)
Still many titles 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: Serena of Savvy Verse & Wit, me and new to the team, Velvet at vvb32reads. Warning: Mailbox Monday can lead to envy, toppling TBR piles and humongous wish lists.

I tend to fill up on titles in December so they will qualify for TBRs in 2023.
I picked three new (listen now) review titles this week through NetGalley.
I selected my two December credit books at Audible.
I found two titles at Chirp that I purchased at $.99 each.
I got two free Kindle title this week.
Are your mailbox and TBR piles blooming?

Review Titles

Three books from NetGalley:

Iconoclasm
A Survival Guide in the Post-Pandemic Economy
by Tony Zorc
Narrated by Tony Zorc
Listening Length: 3 hours and 41 minutes
This business/leadership book sounded interesting to me.

The Prayer Warrior
by Traci Wooden-Carlisle, D. Tina Batten
Narrated by Anita Faye Thomas
Listening Length: 5 hours and 33 minutes
I enjoy Christian spiritual intrigue.

Coup de Grâce
by Paul L. Centeno
Narrated by Rob Jones UK
Listening Length: 10 hours and 40 minutes
This is steampunk adventure and I’ve enjoyed this author before.

Won

NONE

Purchased

12/31/2022 Two Year end purchases at Chirp for $.99 each.

Christmas at Cozy Holly Inn
Written by Meredith Summers
Narrated by Hollis McCarthy
Run Time: 7h 9min
This is my last Christmas title pick for 2022.

Saltwater Cove
Written by Amelia Addler
Narrated by Amy Dannenmueller
Run Time: 4h 36min
I liked the sound of this contemporary, second chance romance.


12/31/2022 Two December Audible Credit picks:

The Return of the Gods
By: Jonathan Cahn
Narrated by: Lawrence Richardson
Length: 8 hrs and 34 mins
See above - I chose this for my First Book of 2023.

The Great Reset
Joe Biden and the Rise of Twenty-First-Century Fascism
By: Glenn Beck, Justin Trask Haskins
Narrated by: Glenn Beck
Length: 9 hrs and 57 mins
I’ve been meaning to read this so I picked it up to be a TBR going into 2023.


KINDLE TITLES: I honestly can't recall where I saw these.
12/19/22

Cold Star: The Carina Series (The Carina Reality Book 1)
by R C Ducantlin




12/27/22

The Meaning in Mistletoe: A Heartwarming, Holiday Romance (Book #4) (A Poppy Creek Novel)
by Rachael Bloome



Two new titles added to Kindle library. Free titles often found at Bookbub, Bookfun, Book Adrenaline, Ereader News Today, Inspired Reads, Pixel of Ink or Kindle ebooks.

Sunday Words of Encouragment January 1, 2023 - God's Expectations

My granddaughter and I arrived home safely on Saturday. All appeared fine with the house until I turned the well pump/water fuse back on. Then my granddaughter said, “Grandmom, there is water spraying from the pump house!” So, I had to call the well/pump repair man. He is supposed to come this morning.

I missed attending our first church service that opened with church breakfast. :-(  But I am thankful I could attend the service online.

Pastor reminded us that the church will go into a 21-day time of fasting starting next Sunday. His message was on God’s Expectations for Us.

We don’t always know what others expect, even our spouses and family members. And often we don’t communicate our expectations well, if at all. Do we even think about God’s expectations?

God says, ”When you pray…When you give…When you Fast.” These are not “if you” situations. God expects these as part of our worship.

Most Christians pray – to greater or lesser extent.
Only 5% of professed Christians tithe to their church. And the average giving is $17.00 per month. (That is barely the cost of a fast-food meal or fancy coffees for two.)
Malachi 3:10 says, “10 Bring the whole tithe into the storehouse, that there may be food in my house. Test me in this,” says the Lord Almighty, “and see if I will not throw open the floodgates of heaven and pour out so much blessing that there will not be room enough to store it.”

How many of us fast?
Why do we fast? We are fasting to grow closer to God, to get to know Him better, and to see His presence manifest in our lives. We want to see His peace, His joy, His love radiating from each of us. We fast to seek God, not to impress others. Matthew 6:5-6, 16-18.

The fast does not expect us to eat no food for 40 days or 21 days. There are a variety of fasting plans we can participate in.
Many of us will do a “Daniel fast” where we forego certain foods. We are to plan to give up some food, a meal or something else that God calls us to give up. Then we are to be mindful and spend that time with God.

Pastor believes God is calling our church to be more than a “status quo” church. We are seeking the supernatural kingdom of God.

Supernatural power and anointing to flow in our lives. Goal to have more powerful prayer life, more anointing of God. More evidence from your life of God in your life.
God rewards with favor and forgiveness, release from addictions, peace.

We fast not as a hunger strike to get God to move but replacing our hunger for things of this life with the things of God.

James 4:2b-3 tells us “You do not have because you do not ask God. 3 When you ask, you do not receive, because you ask with wrong motives, that you may spend what you get on your pleasures.”

If we seek to focus on God, we seek to have the Kingdom of God manifest more in our lives.

I didn’t pick a “New Year” song because this song spoke to me instead.
I had a little struggle with my first Christmas, birthday and New Years in 37 years without my Bob.
This song reminds me that God still Reigns and He is God.

Verses for Today:
Matthew 6:16-18.
16 “When you fast, do not look somber as the hypocrites do, for they disfigure their faces to show others they are fasting. Truly I tell you, they have received their reward in full. 17 But when you fast, put oil on your head and wash your face, 18 so that it will not be obvious to others that you are fasting, but only to your Father, who is unseen; and your Father, who sees what is done in secret, will reward you..

Lord, I pray that you will help me seek and be true to Your expectations of me.

First Book of the Year 2023: The Return of the Gods by Jonathan Cahn

I enjoy participating in the event hosted by Sheila at Book Journey.

I have participated in First Book (links to my posts) since 2014 with these books:
2014: The Harbinger by Jonathan Cahn (audio and print)
2015: Shopping for Time: How to Do It All and NOT Be Overwhelmed by Carolyn Mahaney (ebook)
2016: X Minus One 3 short story Vintage Sci Fi (audio)
2017: All In: You Are One Decision Away From a Totally Different Life by Mark Batterson (print)
2018: What If God Wrote Your To-Do List?: 52 Ways to Make the Most of Every Day by Jay Payleitner (ebook)
2019: The Prayer of Jesus by Kevin Jackson (ebook)
2020: The Possibility of America How the Gospel Can Mend Our God-Blessed,God-Forsaken Land by David Dark (ebook)
2021: The Harbinger II The Return by Jonathan Cahn (audio and print)
2022: The Case for a Creator by Lee Strobel (audio)

This is an author I am always glad to return to for a First Book choice!

The Return of the Gods
By: Jonathan Cahn
Narrated by: Lawrence Richardson
Length: 8 hrs and 34 mins
Source: 12/3122 Audible Credit.
Publisher's Summary
In The Return of the Gods, Cahn takes the listener on a journey from an ancient parable, the ancient inscriptions in Sumer, Assyria, and Babylonia that become the puzzle pieces behind what is taking place in our world to this day, specifically in America.
The mystery involves the gods. Who are they? What are they? And is it possible that these beings, whose origins are from ancient times, are the unseen catalysts of modern culture?
Is it possible that these gods lie behind the most pivotal events, forces, and movements taking place in our nation and around the world at this very moment? Are the gods at this very moment transforming our culture, our children, our lives, and America itself?
Could this mystery have even determined the exact days on which Supreme Court decisions had to be handed down?
What is the Dark Trinity?
Is it possible that what we in the modern world take as nothing more than ancient mythology could actually possess a reality beyond our fathoming?
Who is the Possessor? The Enchanter? The Destroyer? And the Sorceress?
Could a sign that has appeared all over America and the world be linked to the gods of Mesopotamia? And if so, what does it actually mean?
Could the gods have returned to New York City and an ancient mythology played out on the streets in real time?
Is it possible that the gods lie behind everything from what appears on our computer monitors, our televisions and movie screens; to the lessons given in our classrooms; to the breakdown of the family; to wokism; to the occult; to our addictions; to the Supreme Court; to cancel culture; to children's cartoons; to every force and factor that has transformed the parameters of gender; to that which appears in our stores, on our T-shirts, and on our coffee mugs—to that which is, at this very moment, transforming America and much of the world? Is it possible that behind all these things are ancient mysteries that go back to the Middle East and ancient Mesopotamia? This and so much more, most of which we can't even reveal in this description, will be uncovered.
Is it possible that the gods are even affecting your life right now? How can you recognize it? And what can you do about it?
The Return of the Gods is not only one of the most explosive books you'll ever listen to but also one of the most profound. It will reveal the most stunning secrets and truths behind what is happening before your eyes in America and the nations. You will see things, even in your world, in a whole new light. With such chapters as “The House of Spirits,” “The Avatar,” “The Masters,” “The Deep Magic,” and “The Day of the Goddess,” The Return of the Gods will take listeners on a fascinating, unforgettable, and mind-blowing journey that will leave them stunned and with the ability to see the world as they never have before.
Be prepared to be blown away as you open up Jonathan Cahn's most explosive book ever, The Return of the Gods!
©2022 Jonathan Cahn (P)2022 Frontline

I had to manage an awkward selfie since this was a last minute choice and I didn't have someone to take a picture.

No Friday Post - Traveling

Happy Friday! 

Due to my D-I-L having to have surgery again, our family plans switched from Matt and family coming to me to me traveling to them. I am happy to have the company of another granddaughter on the trip. However, I have to travel Friday in the very cold temps after the storm. I allowed extra time to deal with possible road delays  so we did a very short leg of the trip tonight (Thursday). I have limited internet access and my computer mouse is packed.

It is likely I won't get any reviews posted for the week and maybe not even my Sunday Post.

If that is the case, I wish everyone a safe and joyous Holiday weekend!

Sunday Post December 18, 2022/It's Monday! What are You Reading? Plus Mailbox Monday December 19, 2022

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.

Heather was able to stick it out in the office this week. It was a push as we had several closings at the end of the week and to close early next week..

We had our office party on Friday which was a chance to share in joy.

We are blocking the tree but it is in the second picture.

This little gem is the daughter of the young lady in green in the first picture.

Our Marianna Woman's Club (MWC)  had a cookie exchange today.
There were lots of yummies and fun fellowship.

I made my first home made cookies: Lemon Pound Cake Cookies and Pecan Bites, which are on the table behind my right shoulder.

My prayers include prayers for more unity in all nations. In spite of all the busyness, I remind myself to enjoy the hope, peace, joy and love of the season, keeping in mind the "reason for the season".

We had pretty nice weather all week, even today in the 40s. But tonight is going down to 31 for a couple of hours so I covered the plants on the back porch. The men from church will be coming by mid week to help cover our citrus trees. 

I hope everyone will have a meaningful Christmas and beautiful Holiday, cold or not.

This week I finished five sci fi audios which I thought would be unavailable after 12/20/22.  I posted three reviews and my regular Memes.

I visited 15 blogs last week.
No Shout outs this week or next. But I hope you enjoy visiting blog friends.

Audiobooks.com is still sharing some free listens for children.

These were the posts last week:

• Sunday Post December 11, 2022/It's Monday! What are You Reading? Plus Mailbox Monday December 12, 2022.

• MBS November 2022 Reading List Wrap Up.
  

• ATBR: Audible Book Review: Last Stand: The Complete Box Set by William Weber; Genre: Dystopia, Military, Post-Apocalyptic, War; My Rating: 4.0 of 5.0 Overall; Story 4.0; Narration 4.0.

• Martha's BookShelf Friday Pick December 16, 2022 Giveaway. Open Worldwide. Ending 12/22/2022.
  

• A2022: Audible Book Review: 'Twas the Knife Before Christmas by Jacqueline Fost; Genre: Amateur Sleuths, Cozy Mystery, Women Sleuths; My Rating: 4.0 of 5.0 Overall; Story 3.75; Narration 4.0.

• Sharing Beyond Books #453 Comment Giveaway December 17, 2022. Open Worldwide.
  Ending January 14, 2023.

• A2022: Audible Book Review: Icequake by Crawford Kilian; Genre: Climate, Environment, Techno thriller; My Rating: 4.25 of 5.0 Overall; Story 4.25; Narration 4.5.

• Sunday Words of Encouragement December 18, 2022 - God So Loved!
  

Finished Reading: Last week my Audible Library was saying several of the plus catalog titles were only available through 12/20/22 so I went on a binge to listen to several of those. As of Saturday this week, they no longer have that message.
1. Audible Smartphone (A2022)

This Fallen World
By: Christopher Woods
Narrated by: Mark Boyett
Series: The Fallen World, Book 1
Length: 8 hrs and 10 mins
I liked the action in this story.
Source: 11/5 Audible Plus Catalog.
Click on book title for full description.

2. Audible Smartphone (ATBR)

Don't Call Me Ishmael
By: Chris Kennedy
Narrated by: Mark Boyett
Series: The Fallen World, Book 2
Length: 7 hrs and 19 mins
This is another story in The Fallen World series.
I'll be picking up more in the series.
Source: 11/5 Audible Plus Catalog.
Click on book title for full description.

3. Audible Smartphone (A2022)

Welcome to Hell: The Tasmanian Special Forces Group, Book 1
By: C. R. Daems
Narrated by: Emily Woo Zeller
Series: Tasmanian SFG Series, Book 1
I enjoyed the strength of this female protagonist in the vein of GI Jane.
I’ve already picked up book 2.
Source: 12/14/22 Audible Plus Catalog. (This was another title that showed a deadline of 12/20.)
Publisher's Summary
Jolie was 3 when she found she was ugly and deformed.
She was 5 when she found she was a subhuman and an outcast. She was 7 when five boys and two girls dragged her out of the orphanage and beat her unconscious, leaving her lying bleeding and broken in the street.
She was content to lie there and die, tired of being hated and abused. But a frail old man with wispy white hair and a long beard wasn't content to let her die. He not only saved her, but he adopted her and passed on his unique martial art to her.
She was 20 when she headed to Delphi, the center of the United Systems of Perileos (USP) and the planet of her birth father, to find her place in his society.
Based on her unique upbringing, she decides to join the USP military, requesting to be assigned to the Tasmanians SFG, an elite all-male unit. The military brass is reluctant to deny her request and admit their enlistment contract permits bait-and-switch assignments. Instead, they agree to let her enter the school, thinking she couldn't possibly succeed - a Chihuahua competing against Rottweilers — and plan to make an example of her when she fails.
Although Jolie is small, she is not what she appears. But can her adopted father's art enable her to survive the treachery of the military brass, the grueling of the school, the prejudices of the instructors, and the testosterone of an all-male class.
And if she succeeds, can she thrive in the high-octane and all male environment of the Tasmanians?
©2019 C. R. Daems (P)2020 Podium Publishing.

4. Audible Smartphone (A2022)

The Legion Awakes
The Sleeping Legion, Book 1
By: J. R. Handley
Narrated by: Jeffrey Kafer
Series: The Sleeping Legion, Book 1
Length: 7 hrs and 11 mins
This has some interesting military involvement but there was some confusion.
Source: 12/15/22 Audible Plus Catalog. (This was another title that showed a deadline of 12/20.)
Publisher's Summary
A century ago, all but two members of Lance Scipio's unit were executed for bringing dishonor to his regiment.
Now, he is woken into a strange new time, and tasked with whipping into shape the worst squad of misfits in the entire Human Marine Corps.
The price of failure: Death!
AD 2565. Tranquility-4 near the frontier of the White Knight Empire. Guided by mysterious orders, the authorities at the Human Marine Corps base of Beta City thaw Lance Scipio. In 2441, an entire Marine company was executed with the exception of Captain Grimgerde and Sergeant Lance Scipio, the usual punishment for running in the face of the enemy. But these two were preserved...as if they would be required in the future.
Scipio is not expected to escape execution for long, but he has been given a slim chance. For a Marine, a chance can be all that's needed to change the fate of worlds.
The Sleeping Legion is an action-filled sequence of military science fiction novels set in the worlds of the hit series The Human Legion by Tim C. Taylor.
©2016 J. R. Handley (P)2017 Podium Publishing.

5. Audible Smartphone (A2022)

TFS Ingenuity
The Terran Fleet Command Saga, Book 1
By: Tori L. Harris
Narrated by: Jeffrey Kafer
Series: The Terran Fleet Command Saga, Book 1
Length: 6 hrs and 8 mins
This has an interesting dilemma – trying to determine who is friend or foe in first contact aliens.
Source: 12/17/22 Audible Plus Catalog. (This was one more title that showed a deadline of 12/20.)
Publisher's Summary
It's the year 2277. For 50 years, Earth has received mysterious data transmissions from random locations in deep space. The streams include advanced technology, allowing humans to achieve faster-than-light travel virtually overnight. As we prepare to take our first tentative steps into interstellar space, we know almost nothing about our alien benefactors, and their motivations remain unexplained.
While completing their shakedown cruise, Captain Tom Prescott and the crew of the first Terran Fleet Command starship, TFS Ingenuity, stumble into a first contact situation. They learn that Earth is not the first civilization granted access to the stars before their time - and how this Faustian gift has inevitably led to centuries of interstellar war. Humanity's existence hangs in the balance as a powerful alliance assembles a preemptive military strike, believing it to be their only option to protect themselves...from us. Prescott and his small, initially unarmed starship must serve as our only line of defense. Ingenuity is our only hope.
©2015 Tori L. Harris (P)2016 Podium Publishing.

Currently Reading:

1. Audible Smartphone (A2022)

Joy to the Wolves
By Terry Spear
Narrated By: Mackenzie Cartwright
Duration: 10 h 28 min
I am ready for another Christmas title.
Shifter wolves is a plus.
Source: 9/26/2021 Audiobooks.com Two for One Credit.
Summary
As Christmas approaches, red-wolf shifter Brooke Cerise unexpectedly inherits an antique shop in Portland, Oregon. But when a missing reindeer calf turns up on her property, she becomes embroiled in a kidnapping case and the primary suspect of far-too-intriguing shifter Detective Josh Wilding. Josh doesn't intend to fall for the mysterious new woman in town, but Brooke gets under his skin from the moment they meet, and he can't help his instinct to protect her. These red wolves are both on the hunt for love, but there's a mystery to solve before they can enjoy their holiday happy-ever-after.

2. Audible Smartphone (A2022)

North! Or Be Eaten
The Wingfeather Saga, Book 2
By: Andrew Peterson
Narrated by: Andrew Peterson
Length: 12 hrs and 1 min
Release date: 01-05-21
I'll be seeing my grandchildren soon so I am reading book 2 in this series so I will be able to talk about this with them.
Source: 4/8/2021 March Audible Credit.
Publisher's Summary
First they found themselves On the Edge of the Dark Sea of Darkness. Now they must make their way North! Or Be Eaten....
Janner, Tink, and Leeli Igiby thought they were normal children with normal lives and a normal past. But now they know they're really the Lost Jewels of Anniera, heirs to a legendary kingdom across the sea, and suddenly everyone wants to kill them.
In order to survive, the Igibys must flee to the safety of the Ice Prairies, where the lizardlike Fangs of Dang cannot follow. First, however, they have to escape the monsters of Glipwood Forest, the thieving Stranders of the East Ben, and the dreaded Fork Factory.
But even more dangerous are the jealousies and bitterness that threaten to tear them apart. Janner and his siblings must learn the hard way that the love of a family is more important than anything else.
Full of characters rich in heart, smarts, and courage, North! Or Be Eaten is a tale children of all ages will cherish, families can listen to together, and readers' groups are sure to enjoy discussing for its many layers of meaning.
This audiobook includes a PDF of maps, illustrations, and more.
PLEASE NOTE: When you purchase this title, the accompanying PDF will be available in your Audible Library along with the audio.
©2020 Andrew Peterson (P)2020 Listening Library.

December 18, 2022 -  I was startled today when I noted I was on day 352 of 358. Almost finished another year. I have to decide what version I will read/listen to in 2023.  I have totally enjoyed watching the devotion videos. The Bible Reading Plan is: BibleProject | One Story that Leads to Jesus. It really soothes me to read/listen to the pieces each day.

I read five audio titles and reviewed three. I am sort of up to date with 5 reviews due (plus 7 children's books). Considering this is Christmas week, I am not sure if I will get to all of the reviews.

NETGALLEY STATUS--
I have two new titles from NetGalley.
I still have the three old ebook titles. I will probably end up letting A Place Called Armageddon go as DNF.
I have one author review in my queue that I need to start reading on my computer.
(Plus a few that I received from Facebook links and newsletter sign-ups, not specific review requests.)
Still many titles 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: Serena of Savvy Verse & Wit, me and new to the team, Velvet at vvb32reads. Warning: Mailbox Monday can lead to envy, toppling TBR piles and humongous wish lists.

I tend to fill up on titles in December so they will qualify for TBRs in 2023.
I received two new review titles this week through NetGalley and might look for more.
I selected my two November credit books at Audible.
I used another Two for One credit for two audios from Audiobooks.com.
I only got one free Kindle title this week.
Are your mailbox and TBR piles blooming?

Review Titles

Two books from NetGalley:

A Hard Day for a Hangover: A Novel (Sunshine Vicram Series Book 3)
by Darynda Jones
I saw this at several other blogs and was able to get it before it was archived.

The Last Saxon King
A Jump in Time Novel, Book 1
By: Andrew Varga
Narrated by: Mark Sanderlin
Series: A Jump in Time Novel, Book 1
Length: 8 hrs and 49 mins
This doesn't release until March so I will probably not read it right away.

Won

NONE

Purchased

12/17/22 Two November Audible Credits: Both series titles - one the end(?) and the other, book 2 of a series I discovered this past week,.

Commune 5
Commune, Book 5
By: Joshua Gayou, Devon C. Ford
Narrated by: R.C. Bray
Length: 19 hrs and 29 mins

Devils to Me
Tasmanian Special Forces Group, Book 2
By: C. R. Daems
Narrated by: Emily Woo Zeller
Length: 8 hrs and 23 mins


12/18/2022 Two for One Credit Deal on Holiday Romance at Audiobooks.com

An Ivy Hill Christmas
Series: #3.5 of Tales from Ivy Hill
Written by: Julie Klassen
Narrated by: Elizabeth Jasicki
Duration: 7 hours 35 minutes

I Wish It Could Be Christmas Every Day
Written by: Milly Johnson
Narrated by: Colleen Prendergast
Duration: 10 hours 22 minutes

Free

KINDLE TITLES:

Christmas Cookies with a Side of Murder (Daley Buzz Treasure Cove Cozy Mystery Book 7)
by Meredith Potts


One new title added to Kindle library. Free titles often found at Bookbub, Bookfun, Book Adrenaline, Ereader News Today, Inspired Reads, Pixel of Ink or Kindle ebooks.