It's Monday What are You Reading? October 21, 2013

This meme starts at Book Journey!

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.

It seemed like a strange week but I accomplished different tasks each day.  Reading is still good. :-)  I finished three books and posted five reviews again.   I posted one book Giveaway and two Tour Feature Giveaways.
I also posted the weekly Mailbox Monday, Friday Pick Giveaway, Saturday Snapshot, Sharing Beyond Books Comment Giveaway and Sunday Words.

I did some visiting last week which I enjoyed.  None this weekend because we are watching grand kids. I'll have to try visiting through the week.
Thanks as always to all the nice people who visit me.

These were last week's posts plus win post:

• It's Monday What are You Reading? October 14, 2013.

• Mailbox Monday 10/14/13.

• Book Review, Feature and Giveaway Link: Lord Trowbridge's Angel by G.G. Vandagriff, Historical Romance; my rating 4.25. Ends 10/24.

• Book Review: When Night Falls by Margaret Daley, Mystery; my rating 4.25. 

• Audible Book Review: The Time Fetch by Amy Herrick, Middle Grade, Fantasy; my rating 4.25. 

• Martha's Bookshelf***Friday Pick Giveaway October 18, 2013. Open Worldwide. Ends 10/25.

• Book Review and Giveaway Link: Just Ella  by Annette K. Larsen, Historical Romance; my rating 4.5. Ends 11/5.

• Saturday Snapshot October 19, 2013 Grandkids Visit.

• Book Review with Giveaway: The Christmas He Loved Her by Juliana Stone, Contemporary Romance, my rating 4.0. Open US and Canada; Ends 10/25/13.

• Sharing Beyond Books #122 Comment Giveaway 10/19/13. Open Worldwide. Ends 10/25.

• Sunday Words of Encouragement October 20, 2013.
  

Finished Reading:
1. eBook/Kindle

Bargained-For Bride
by Marcia Lynn McClure
This is a cute, sweet romance.
Review as part of BookBlast Tour to post 10/24.
Click on book title for full description.

2. Print

The Christmas He Loved Her (Bad Boys of Crystal Lake)
by Juliana Stone
This is an emotional romance;
I posted the review with ARC giveaway - linked above.
Click on book title for full description.

3. Audible

A Reason to Live: A Marty Singer Mystery, Book 1
    UNABRIDGED
    by Matthew Iden
    Narrated by Lloyd Sherr
I really enjoyed this mystery which has good action and twists.
This week I'll be posting a review; 
received from the author.
Click on book title for full description.

Line Edits/Releases:
We had two print books released this past week at Amazon - The Late Great Benjamin Bale and There's a Monster in Mommy's Tummy.  They will be linked up at eTreasures (where the net payout is better without the Amazon fees) as soon as I have my copies in hand to make the final overlook. :-)
We also have an ebook that may be finalized for release this week.

Back to working on formatting some new releases.

Enter the bi-monthly drawings at eTreasures Publishing Facebook page.
This week's giveaway link: Coming Home by Joy Brooks; part of Anthology set: Spring Historicals - Sweethearts in Bloom.

Currently reading:

1. eBook/Kindle

No Escape (Texas Rangers)
Mary Burton
This is very suspenseful with good romance conflict!
Review, author Interview and Giveaway to post 10/29.
Click on book title for full description.

2. Print

Lady Jenny's Christmas Portrait 
by Grace Burrows
This is starting out to be usual Burrows' charming.
I am reviewing for Sourcebooks to post with ARC Giveaway.
Book Description
Publication Date: September 24, 2013
A freshly wrapped Regency Christmas romance from New York Times and USA Today bestselling author Grace Burrowes.

What Lady Jenny wants for Christmas...
For Christmas, soft-spoken Lady Jenny Windham craves the freedom to pursue her artistic ambitions, though it will mean scandalizing her ducal parents and abandoning all hope of a family of her own. She confides her plans to successful artist Elijah Harrison when he's commissioned to paint a portrait of her small nephews, because assisting Elijah will bring Jenny that much closer to her heart's desire--won't it?

...Will break both their hearts
Elijah Harrison finds in his unlikely assistant not only an inspiring muse and unappreciated talent, but also a lovely and passionate woman. If Elijah supports Jenny's career, his own professional interests will suffer, but more significantly, he will lose Jenny forever. Both Jenny and Elijah must choose between true love and a lifelong dream.

3. Audible/MP3
 

Third Grave Dead Ahead
by Darynda Jones
    Narrated by Lorelei King
        Series: Charley Davidson, Book 3
I'm not enjoying the beginning
of this quite as much as the first two.
Maybe it will get better. This is from my own Audible Library.
Publisher's Summary

Third in the award-winning paranormal series that’s “hilarious and heartfelt, sexy and surprising.” (J.R. Ward)

Paranormal private eye. Grim reaper extraordinaire. Whatever. Charley Davidson is back in Darynda Jones' Third Grave Dead Ahead! And she’s drinking copious amounts of caffeine to stay awake because, every time she closes her eyes, she sees him: Reyes Farrow, the parthuman, part-supermodel son of Satan. Yes, she did imprison him for all eternity, but come on. How is she supposed to solve a missing persons case, deal with an ego-driven doctor, calm her curmudgeonly dad, and take on a motorcycle gang hellbent on murder when the devil’s son just won’t give up?

4. Audio/MP3

Battle for LA
Author: CJ Henderson, Mark Sparacio
Narrator: Full Cast
Publisher: AudioComics
This is a comic audio that I received from the Publisher through AudioBook Jukebox.

In the early morning hours of February 25, 1945, US anti-aircraft shore artillery opened fire on an unidentified object in the skies above Los Angeles, California. Over the course of the next three hours, “swarms of planes” were reported as roaming the skies above the city of angels, though in the end the only actual damage was the result of traffic accidents, friendly fire from the attack, and in some cases, heart attacks caused by stress.

The public was later told that there the attack was a false alarm. Moonstone Books, however, has unearthed the government documents that show the real truth…and how some of the greatest heroes in pulp history fought back against the “event”…
Battle for LA is AudioComics’ second collaboration with Moonstone Entertainment, Inc., adapted from the illustrated novella by CJ Henderson and Mark Sparacio, and starring pulp heroes The Black Bat, Domino Lady, Secret Agent X, and The Phantom Detective, and classic comic character Airboy. America’s pulp and comic avengers pit their wits (and guns) against a menace from another world in a story actually inspired by true events!

I am really lagging but still listening to The Listener's Bible NIV read by Max McLean. [Reading and listening on MP3.] I have been remiss and not keeping up with daily reading with my DH.

Line Edits: I am working on poetry formatting this week.

I am enjoying adding stories from my own TBR. :-)
I now have seven titles ready for reviews so I hope to continue with at least five a week which I have tentatively calendared for each day.

October Scheduled
10/24  BookBlast Tour Review: Bargained-For Bride by Marcia Lynn McClure
10/29  Review with Author Interview and Giveaway: No Escape by Mary Burton (Joan Schulhafer Publishing & Media Consulting) (reading)
10/31 Review with Giveaway: I Accidentally Married a God

Sourcebooks
     Lady Jenny's Christmas Portrait by Grace Burrows (reading)

NetGalley:
   I may browse for new choices.

AudioBook Jukebox 
   More to come

Authors - I have several requests to consider.

From TBR Collection - TBD
Won Book - TBD
Free Kindle/Nook or Smashwords: When Night Falls - read. 

Sunday Words of Encouragement October 20, 2013

We are still  busy with grandkids.  We all enjoyed church this morning. I'll be saving the sermon notes for another day. Instead I want to share a quick message that was shared by our events announcer today.

He noted that if you light a match or candle or flashlight at lunch time it barely shows. But as twilight comes on the light is more noticeable. Then when it is really dark the little bit of light may be considered radical.  As society around us becomes darker -- in the sense of personal morals, Biblical commitment and doing what is right in God's eyes instead of our own eyes -- may we prove to be radical lights in a darkening world.

I've chosen this song to fit this message:

We Shine!

Verses for today:
Matthew 5:14-16 (NIV)
14 “You are the light of the world. A town built on a hill cannot be hidden.
15 Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead they put it on its stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house.
16 In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.

Lord, I pray that I may be considered radical in my service and sharing for You!

Sharing Beyond Books #122 October 19, 2013 Comment Giveaway

Hello again on Saturday night and Welcome to SBB, Sharing Beyond Books.

Hey everyone!  I am pulling this together while watching movies with the Grand kids. :-) Almost cookie time!

Six - seven of us picked Thanksgiving as our favorite part of autumn. Three people like the leaves, and a couple like decorating and Halloween too. Some like fall festivals and pumpkins and scottsgal likes the fall football! 

Most of use acknowledge that we are multi-taskers but two are single taskers.  fredamans and CarolL noted that as moms we almost have to be multitaskers! And Liss and a couple others mentioned they are single minded when reading!

Thank you to all who shared last week.

~~~~

The Winner from SBB #121 comments is: #10 fredamans (I think you've had a winning week!) who can make a GC choice if international or book choice from the ARC/Review titles, Christmas titles or Love titles - all linked near the end of the post.  Please let me know your choice by completing the (new) WINNER FORM.

WEEK #122

Q1. Marjorie asks: How do you feel about talking and texting on cell phones while at table at a wedding??

A: I have to agree that such behavior would be rude. I see people texting during dinners out and I think that is rude too. And then there are those who think it's okay to text during movies - it suits me if they are banned from the theater. :-)

Image found at OnTheJob.

Q2. My bookish Question this week: Do you read the back material such as Author's Bio, Reading Guide, preview, excerpt or first chapter for next book??

A: Most of the time I do read the end portions. Lately I have found some interesting material. I don't always read previews or excerpts, first chapters of the next or prior book though.

Image found at Fine Books & Collections.

Thanks to those who are sending in Questions. DON'T BE SHY! Surely everyone has a Q or two you'd like to ask. Input suggestions in this Suggested Question Form. At the end of each month I draw from the suggestions I used during the month and that person will get a book choice or GC. I thank everyone for submitting questions. Thanks for sending in questions! We are getting low on questions so hopefully you will send more in -- even if they are duplicates I'll weed through or try to modify to use.

Your turn to share:

Q1. Marjorie asks: How do you feel about talking and texting on cell phones while at table at a wedding??

Q2. My bookish Question this week: Do you read the back material such as Author's Bio, Reading Guide, preview, excerpt or first chapter for next book??

SBB Comment Winners can choose a selection from the Valentine and "Love" books , the Christmas Giveaway Books, or the June 2012 Newly Updated ARC/Review List.

SBB Rules:
a) Must be a follower.
b) Share a comment on either of the two questions 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 by Friday, October 25, 2013 at 10 PM central.

Book Review and ARC Giveaway: The Christmas He Loved Her by Juliana Stone

This is an emotionally charged read where the characters have to overcome pain and guilt to find romance.

The Christmas He Loved Her (Bad Boys of Crystal Lake)
by Juliana Stone

• Series: Bad Boys of Crystal Lake
• Mass Market Paperback: 352 pages
• Publisher: Sourcebooks Casablanca (September 24, 2013)
• ISBN-10: 1402274831
• ISBN-13: 978-1402274831

Genre: Contemporary Romance
My Rating 4.0 of 5.0

Book Description
Publication Date: September 24, 2013
"Will appeal to readers of Cathie Linz and Susan Elizabeth Phillips."—Booklist
All he wants this Christmas is her...

In the small town of Crystal Lake, Christmas is a time for sledding, hot chocolate, and cozying up to the fire with those you love. For Jake Edwards, it's also time to come home and face the music. He thought there would never be anything harder than losing his brother. Turns out there is: falling in love with his brother's widow, Raine.

Ever since they were little, Jesse was the Edwards brother who was always there for her, and Jake was the one who knew just how to push her buttons. Raine can't imagine a life without them, which is why it was doubly decimating when Jake left town after his brother's sudden death. Now he's back and she doesn't know whether to be mad or thrilled. Maybe both. Or maybe it will be the perfect chance for both of them to finally find happiness again.

Review:
Raine is a young woman who has curled into grief after the death of her husband, Jesse. But there is more pain that she is carrying that isn’t revealed fully until late in the book. Raine grew up as a tag- along following neighbor twins, Jesse and Jake Edwards. Jesse was the serious twin although he also was a risk taker and mischievous. Jake has always been the more vibrant twin but he and Raine seemed to be combative, always going head to head in argument and discussions.

Jake came back alive from the middle east combat and is shrugging with his own guilt. He wasn’t able to save his brother who seemed to have thrust himself into danger. When Jake returned he realized that he still, as always, wanted what he couldn’t have – his brother’s woman, Raine. Jake panicked a year before when he took off after being with Raine briefly.

It is clear that Raine and Jake have deep feelings for each other. It is also apparent that they need to work through a lot of pain, grief, misunderstandings and even secrets before they might have a chance to come together for a future. 

There are additional supporting characters that add to the emotional trauma. Jake’s parents are also coping with the grief and loss and on top of that his father has been ill for the past year. Raine’s mother, who spent most of Raine's youth ministering to starving children overseas, is back and asking for a chance to be a mother. Jake has come home with a friend, Lily, who is fashion-model beautiful but also emotionally damaged. These people add different conflicts and stresses to Raine and Jake’s already strained relationship.

Although I was leery of the emotions as I started the book, I did become engaged and enjoyed the story. I wanted Jake and Raine to move along quicker to a point where they could accept their love and help heal each other. Of course, a big part of the story is their struggle to get to that point. There were a couple of gaps that bothered me, some more minor than others. Lily’s trauma was never explained although I suspect that is for another book. But the big gap was with Jesse’s mind set. There were hints that things weren’t right between him and Raine and there was a disclosure that he might have had a death wish but the reason was never discussed or revealed.

The romance is strong when they come together and there are a couple of intense scenes. These were nicely handled so they were not offensive and could be skimmed if the reader chooses. I felt that there could have been more depth in the characters. It was as if I was exposed to the top surface of pain and confusion and that dominated throughout. Still, the writing was strong and the momentum helped me ultimately enjoyed the book.

I received this book from Sourcebooks for an honest review.

ENTER THIS GIVEAWAY for the ARC Copy:

ENTRY FORM HERE

Don't forget to fill in the form for entry! 

I have noticed a few commenters who forgot to enter through the Form.  

 For 3 Extra Bonus entries Visit the author's website and tell me something you find of interest.

* This contest is open to US or Canadian addresses.
* This contest will close 10 PM (Central) on October 25, 2013.
The winner will be randomly selected from all entries.
WINNER WILL BE ANNOUNCED after October 25, 2013.
Winners will have 72 hours to respond by email or the winners form linked in the announcement.

Saturday Snapshot October 19, 2013 - Grandkids Visit

My DH and I are watching two of our grandchildren this weekend. I went to bed early and have been up with the kids this morning.  I was going to skip posting this morning but decided I would show you what we were up to.

Yesterday I walked around the garden to find some items to harvest.

This morning my granddaughter helped me gather 

before it rained harder.

There are decorative gourds, some sweet potatoes,
one watermelon and two green peppers.

Our grandson was watching National Geographic while we picked out goodies.

Then P-Pop made pancakes!

I had a great time visiting last week and hope to get to today -- in between watching the kiddos.

A big Thank You to Alyce of At Home With Books who has hosted this meme for a number of years. She is taking a summer hiatus at her blog and the new host will be Melissa at West Metro Mommy. Thank you to Melissa for picking up the responsibility.


To participate in the Saturday Snapshot meme post a photo that you (or a friend or family member) have taken then leave a direct link to your post in the Mister Linky being hosted this summer by West Metro Mommy. Photos can be old or new, and be of any subject as long as they are clean and appropriate for all eyes to see. How much detail you give in the caption is entirely up to you. Please don’t post random photos that you find online.

Book Review and Giveaway Link: Just Ella by Annette K. Larsen

This is a lovely, sweet romance with hints of the Prince and the Pauper.
Just Ella
by Annette K. Larsen

• File Size: 3414 KB
• Print Length: 294 pages
• Publisher: Hidden Falls Publishing (August 14, 2013)
• Sold by: Amazon Digital Services, Inc.
• ASIN: B00EK7R5ZW

Genre: Historical Romance
My Rating: 4.5 of 5.0

Book Description
Publication Date: August 14, 2013
A Proper, Clean Romance.
Ariella was only looking for a distraction, something to break up the monotony of palace life. What she found was a young man willing to overlook her title and show her a new and vibrant way of life. But when her growing feelings for Gavin spiral out of control and clash with the expectations of her station, she will discover that the consequences of her curiosity are far more severe than she’d imagined.

"I watched in helpless horror as two guards hauled Gavin to his feet and dragged him from the room. My voice was frozen, unable to protest as another guard took hold of my arm, leading me upstairs. From the confines of my room, I stared into the darkness beyond my window, hoping to catch one more glimpse of Gavin. He was gone, and I wondered if he would have been better off if he had never met me."

Review:
Ariella is a princess who longs to be loved for herself...just Ella. No one knows that side of her. She doesn’t even have friends since she can’t mingle with others in her kingdom. She has a special camaraderie with her father, the king, as he shares history and explains political aspects of ruling when she visits in the library in the afternoons.

As she is nearing her sixteenth birthday Ella knows that there will be a big celebration with neighboring nobility coming to the festivities and some thinking about making alliances. One young prince, Jeshua, has shown particular favor towards Ella but she doesn’t like his arrogant, sly attitude that shows more interest in himself than in others.

Ella seeks refuge in a hidden room in the garden maze where she meets a young gardener, Gavin. He recognizes her as nobility by the way she speaks and carries herself. But she introduces herself only as Ella, and a gentle friendship begins before he realizes fully who she is. Ella begins to spend time in the garden, reading to Gavin as he works. Sometimes they chat about life as he tells her about village traditions. Then he even takes her on a surprise exploration, sneaking outside of the palace grounds.

When an excursion outside of the palace results in an attack Ella must explain that Gavin didn’t attack her but rescued her. Now that that her secret friendship is exposed, Gavin is banished, her father is angry and so Ella loses the two she cherished most.

Ella is sad and distraught but finds a way to share her desire to help others. She continues to avoid Jeshua even as he increases his pursuit. Then she is devastated to learn that Gavin has become engaged. But what can she expect? They are of two different worlds and Ella must learn to let him go.

There is danger and intrigue as Ella is kidnapped. She learns the identity of her kidnappers but is afraid that her parents won’t believe her and Gavin will get blamed instead. If there is any chance for Ella to be with Gavin they are going to have to take risks and sort out the misunderstandings that abound.

I liked Ella’s down to earth, caring personality and enjoyed the gentleness of her friendship with protective Gavin. I really appreciated the maturity that Ella learned as she dealt with the pain of lost love and loneliness. I also liked how she sought more than an idle life of royalty and wanted to make life better for the people.

The writing has an easy flow and the story is full of emotional depth. There is a very nice ‘afterward’ where the author explains the inspiration for the story and gives snippets and tidbits about certain characters or scenes. Although I was not enthralled, I would say the story is enchanting and a good read for those who enjoy stories of star crossed love with a happy ending.

Ella realizes a hard lesson:

...Love did not always conquer all.
   And so I was left to find a way to conquer love. Heaven help me. Location 2783.

I received this title as part of BookBlast Blog Tour.
Look at the BookBlast feature post for more information and another Giveaway Link!

Book Tour Giveaway 

(in addition to Bookblast Giveaway linked above.)

$25 Amazon Gift Card or Paypal Cash

Ends 11/5/13

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Martha's Bookshelf***Friday Pick Giveaway October 18, 2013

[** If you are new to Friday Pick Giveaway - Welcome!  Scroll down a bit (below book group #19) for instructions on how to enter.]

Happy Friday Friends!!  I think I am very glad it is Friday. I am quite tired as I prepare this post and looking forward to weekend time. Although - I think our two older grandchildren, 9 and 5, will be visiting so I'm not sure how relaxing the weekend will be. :-)

[UPDATED NOTE - US entrants I prefer, please, that you pick a book as that is the first purpose of this giveaway - to find new homes for books. The GCs are for the international entrants because postage has jumped up.]

Thank you to all who entered the October 11 Pick. There were no Automatic wins this week (but several at 3 so might win next week!). (Automatic winners are those who requested the book four times and I did not note other people asking for that book during those weeks). There were FOUR blocked titles this week!

CONGRATULATIONS
to Random.org picked Winners from October 11 Pick:

Llehn gets a GC

Ashley gets the Linda Lael Miller pair

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 or sexy and I have a new supply of sweet bookmarks. {The form is new because Google changed their forms and the old one wasn't letting me print out the responses.}

Wouldn't it be nice if books fell instead of leaves?! :-)

Image found at 8Tracks Radio.

New Book Group #42 September 27, 2013

Pairs:
Linda Lael Miller:
     The Legacy and Here &Then
Susan Spencer Paul
     Beguiled and The Bride's Portion
Singles:
Whisper on the Wind by Joan Smith
Portrait of Dreams by Victoria Malvey
No Other Lover by Julie Anne Long
Deceptions & Dreams by Debra Deir (spine creases)
Wet & Wild by Sandra Hill
Fulfillment by Barbara Delinsky
Something Extra by Janet Dailey
Trouble Becomes Her by Laura Van Wormer
Dead Silence by Brenda Novak
Remember Me by Mary Higgins Clark
The Hangman's Beautiful Daughter by Sharyn McCrumb

New Book Group #41 August 2, 2013

Pairs:
Jude Deveraux
    Return to Summerhouse and Twin of Fire
Mariah Stewart
    Priceless and Brown-Eyed Girl
Singles:
The Shadowed Heart by Nina Beaumont
Hannah by Lori Copeland
My Lady Midnight by Laurie Grant
Wicked and Wonderful by Valerie King
The Door to December by Dean Koontz
Heart of the Storm by Lindsay McKenna
Crucfixtion River by Marcia Muller & Bill Pronzini
Tabitha in Moonlight by Betty Neels
The Nightingale's Song by Jo-Ann Power
Caught in a Bind by Gayle Roper
Cattle Rancher, Secret Son by Margaret Way
White Heather by Jaclyn Reding

New Book Group #40 June 28, 2013

Pairs:
     (Highlands) Highland Treasure by Amanda Scott and Highlander Unbound by Julia London
     (Angels) Not Quite An Angel by Bobby Hutchinson and An Angel for Dry Creek by Janet Tronstad
Singles:
What Sarah Saw by Margaret Daley (Cover has black line across where bookstore crossed it for clearance)
Her Last Chance by Terri Reed  (Cover has black line across where bookstore crossed it for clearance)
The Clairvoyant Countess by Dorothy Gilman
Breakfast in Bed by Sandra Brown - Audio Cassette Tapes
Mission: Irresistible by Lori Wilde
Sin and Scandal in England by Melody Thomas
Dance With Me by Luanne Rice
A Mother's Day Anthology - three stories
Rising Moon by Lori Handeland
Star Light, Star Bright by Katherine Stone
Another View by Rosamunde Pilcher
Promise Forever by Marta Perry


New Book Group #39 May 31, 2013 - Plenty of "summer" titles!
Oops - I never added all the links last month so no promises on these either.

Pairs:
Hannah Howell
     Highland Hearts and Highland Destiny
Catherine Anderson
     My Sunshine and Blue Skies
Elizabeth Lowell
     Remember Summer and Too Hot to Handle
Singles:
Touched by Fire by Kathleen O'Reilly
Playing with Fire by Gena Showalter
Shetland Summer by Janet Lynnford
That Summer by Joan Wolf
Shadow of the Sun by Tammy Hilz
Dark Summer by Iris Johansen
Summer at Willow Lake by Susan Wiggs
Summer by the Sea by Susan Wiggs
Shadow Beach by Barbara Freethy
It All Began at Monte Carlo by Elizabeth Adler


New Book Group #38 April 20, 2013
Here is a group with many mysteries.  Links to be added as I get time.

Pairs:
Amanda Scott
      Abducted Heiress and Highland Bride
Sandra Brown
     Texas! Chase and Exclusive (spine wear) (not the covers as on the links)
A Murderous Yarn by Monica Ferris
Deadly Advise by Roberta Isleib
Dial Emmy for Murder by Eileen Davidson 
On Deadly Ground (Love Inspired Suspense) by Lauren Nichols
Happy Never After by Kathy Hogan Trocheck
Female Intellignece by Jane Heller
Improper English by Katie MacAllister
Sheer Dynamite by Jennifer Skully
Golden Chances by Rebbecca Hagen Lee
Caitlin's Guardian Angel by Marie Ferrarella
Burning Alive by Shannon K. Butcher
Awaken the Senses by Nalini Singh


New Book Group #37 March 22, 2013

As I am linking these titles it is clear to me why they were in my TBR boxes and it is really hard to let them go but I have soooo many. Better that they find good reader homes than sit on my shelves, or in a box, and collect dust. 
Pairs:
Singles:
Anthology: Something Borrowed, Something Blue - this book has spine creases and minor water damage...I thought I had read it and liked it but now I realize it was another anthology I read with Elaine Barbier.
To Tame a Rebel by Georgina Gentry
While Passion Sleeps by Shirlee Busbee
The Admiral's Bride by Suzanne Brockmann
Lady Ice by Joan Hohl



New Book Group #36 February 15, 2013

Pairs:
Tara Taylor Quinn
     Father: Unknown and McGillus v.Wright
Singles:
Timeline by Michael Crichton
The Trailsman: Texas Lead Slingers by Jon Sharpe


New Book Group #35 January 11, 2013
*asterisks indicate lighter, smaller books possibly suitable for international mailing 
Pairs
Singles-- I found a couple of boxes of romances (a lot of Harlequins) that I haven't gotten to read over the past 8 years so... I will send them off to others to read!

*Merger of Fortunes by Peggy Moreland

New Book Group #34 December 7, 2012--- (All gone)

New Book Group #33 October 27, 2012
*asterisks indicate lighter, smaller books possibly suitable for international mailing

SINGLES - CHRISTMAS TITLES (Better sizes for international) 
*Deck the Halls by Arlene James (slight spine creasing)
*A Holiday Prayer by Deb Kastner  (slight spine creasing)


New Book Group #32 October 5, 2012

- Oops upside down book! 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 - A Courtesans Guide to Getting Your Man by Susan Donovan and Celeste Bradley


New Book Group #31 August 31, 2012
I pulled some more books from several of my boxes.

An Honorable Man by Rosemary Rogers (spine creases)


New Book Group #30 July 27, 2012
This time I pulled some books from one of my older boxes.
*asterisks indicate lighter, smaller books possibly suitable for international mailing

The Willful Widow by Valerie King (spine wear)
Wild Escapade by Lisa Bingham
Dancing on Snowflakes by Jane Bonander (postage too much - replaced with GC)

New Book Group #29 June 29, 2012
*asterisks indicate lighter, smaller books possibly suitable for international mailing

Magic: The Gathering Distant Planes, An Anthology
*One is the Lonliest Number - Tom Clancey's Net Force

New Book Group #28 May 18, 2012 (All gone)

New book Group #27 April 13, 2012 (All gone)

New book Group #26 March 2, 2012--- (All gone)

New Group #25 January 12, 2012---(All gone)

New Group #24 Pick Books November 25, 2011---(All gone)

New Group #23 Pick Books October 14, 2011
I tried to pick some books that would be good for October -
Halloween or dark minded.
Ghost Writer (Shivers #3) by M.D. Spenser


New Group #22 Pick Books September 2, 2011---(All gone)

New Group #21 of Pick Books July 29, 2011
Mallory's Oracle (Kathleen Mallory Novels) by Carol O'Connell

May, 2011 New Group of Pick books Group #20
Luciano's Luck by Jack Higgins - Audio Cassettes

3/25/11 I did get to set up a new group of books: Group #19
Primary Colors - audio tapes
*Note of Peril (black strip on cover)

2/19/11 Book Group #18- Pairs!---(All gone).

I have finally updated the intro and Entry paragraphs here:

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 in November 27, 2009 and in three years I have posted 33 groups of 16 (528) books to find new homes! (as of November 2012)

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! I am happy to say that so far about 575+ books (I forgot to update this number for a month) have found new homes! YAY. I have to update my print out to check the exact number sent out - a few were never claimed.

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 $5.00 $7.00 and $6.00 $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)

TO ENTER:

Leave a comment and tell me WHICH BOOK you would like to get from the Friday Pick lists.
CUT OFF TIME IS THURSDAY NIGHTS AT 10:00 PM CENTRAL so I do not have to stay up past midnight to do the winner post!
I will randomly pick two winners to announce Friday mornings with the next Pick post.
Automatic wins are those who requested the book four times and I did not note other people asking for that book during those weeks.
WINNERS PLEASE CHECK THE WIN POST ON FRIDAYS AND fill in the Winner's Acceptance Form or email me at mesreads@gmail.com. [I will confirm receipt of the addresses- well I realize I haven't always done this. But if you filled out the form and don't get the book within two weeks nudge me with an email please!] If I have the winners e-mail I will send a reminder in a week or so....

Thanks for helping these books find new homes!!

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!

1/14/11 New List #17--- (All gone)

12/3/10 Book Set: #16
Sleight of Hand by Robin Hathaway
The Da Vinci Code by Dan Brown  (postage too much - replaced with GC)

List #15---(All gone)

List #14---(All gone)

Here is set #13 of Used books! ---(All gone)

Group #12---(All gone)

Group #11
Cat's Eyewitness by Rita Mae Brown
Alien Chronicles - The Crimson Claw by Deborah Chester

List #1
Circle of Stars by Anna Lee Waldo

Pick #2---(All gone)

Pick #3---(All gone)

Pick #4
Talking God by Tony Kellerman

Pick #5
See Jane Lead by Lois P. Frankel
Cold Hit by Linda Fairstein - Audio Tapes

Pick #6---(All gone)

Pick #7
Prey by Michael Crichton - Audio Tape
Princess Charming by Jane Heller (slightly creased)

Pick #8
(sc) = slightly creased on binding otherwise all in good shape
The Jury by Steve Martini - Audio Tapes
No Safe Place by Richard North Patterson - Audio Tapes

Pick #9
On Treacherous Ground by Earl Murray
Guardian by Dee Henderson - Audio Tapes
Time to Hunt by Stephen Hunter - Audio Tapes

Pick #10---(All Gone)

Audio Book Review: The Time Fetch by Amy Herrick

This is a different fairytale adventure for middle grade and up.

The Time Fetch 

by Amy Herrick

read by Luci Christian
Audiobook
Unabridged   7.75 hour(s)
Publication date: 08/27/2013

Gernre: Middle Grade, Fantasy

My Rating: 4.0 of 5.0

Product Description
Under normal circumstances, a Time Fetch sends out its foragers to collect only those moments that will never be missed or regretted. It then rests, waiting to be called back by the Keeper, who distributes the gathered time where it is needed in our world and others. When eighth grader Edward innocently mistakes a sleeping Fetch for an ordinary rock, he wakes its foragers too early, and they begin to multiply and gobble up too much time. Soon the bell rings to end class just as it’s begun. Buses race down streets, too far behind schedule to stop for passengers. Buildings and sidewalks begin to disappear as the whole fabric of the universe starts to unravel.

To try to stop the time foragers he has unleashed, Edward must depend on the help of his classmates Feenix, Danton, and Brigit—whether he likes it or not. They all have touched the Fetch, and it has drawn them together in a strange and thrilling adventure where the boundaries between worlds and dimensions are blurred, and places and creatures on the other side are much like the ones they’ve always known—but slightly twisted, a little darker, and much more dangerous.

A fast-paced tale of mythology, danger, friendship, and a shocking centuries-old secret, The Time Fetch is a magical adventure that reveals the extraordinary hiding just inside the ordinary.

Review:
This is a fun but ‘grim’ tale as in scary fairytale. Edward is a skinny, nerdy type kid who buries himself in his books and finds a world away from the mean kids at school. He lives with his strange Aunt who is always talking about mystical things like the summer and winter solstice. His Aunt encourages Edward to bring other children home, especially the cute girl next door. Edward isn’t about to invite anyone to meet his strange Aunt. Especially not Feenix, the snobby girl next door who succeeds in subjecting even teachers to her embarrassing, mean taunts.

One day Edward slips into his Aunt’s garden and finds a strange looking rock to take into science class. As he heads to school weird things begin to happen and an odd man tries to take the rock from him. An athletic, cheerful boy, Danton, begins to take an interest in Edward, most likely because of the good food Edward always brings from home. There is also a cute but strange girl, Birgit, who seems nice enough to even Edward and Danton. But she doesn’t talk ... to anyone. She hasn’t talked since a traumatic event in her childhood.

When Feenix sneaks the rock away, Edward and Danton follow her to the park. Birgit follows them sensing something bad is going on. Feenix goes missing, while back at school time seems to be speeding by and no one remembers Feenix. Finally the other three young people remember and return to find her. Feenix only escapes the woodland when Danton and the others rescue her.

Although this is an unlikely team, they end up working together when they realize that the rock that Edward brought to school has had a strange, dangerous, effect on their community. Feenix has learned that it is a “time fetch” and a few of the tiny creatures inside have escaped. Now the little ‘buzzers’ are multiply and eating memories, mass and time itself. The world is in danger of being consumed unless the four youths can puzzle the way to stop the time bees without getting caught by the unraveler.

This was a very different and strange tale. I felt the beginning dragged a little getting to the more exciting and dangerous parts of the story. There were some behaviors, like the bullying and parental disrespect, that I didn’t like. I enjoyed the science lessons and ponderings that added philosophical questions. I very much liked how each of the children found strengths in themselves that were needed to succeed together. The story is pretty fast paced (after the slowness) and has some surprises that I think would keep the attention of older middle grade students. I would classify this as a fairytale adventure, including a positive moral.

Audio Notes: The narration was effective to portray the quirky characters. There was excitement and wonder in the reading that added to my enjoyment of the story. I’m not sure I would have picked this as a print book but I did like it as an audio.

I recieved this CD audiobook for reviewing from Highbridge Audio through AudioBook Jukebox.

Book Review: When Night Falls by Margaret Daley

I liked this quick and engaging mystery.
When Night Falls
by Margaret Daley

• File Size: 179 KB
• Print Length: 38 pages
• Publisher: Steeple Hill Love Inspired Suspense (October 9, 2009)
• Sold by: Amazon Digital Services, Inc.
• ASIN: B002TKFF18

Genre: Mystery
My Rating: 4.25 of 5.0
Free book at Kindle!

Book Description
Publication Date: October 9, 2009
A violent encounter in a deserted parking lot is FBI agent Sam Pierce’s only clue to the menace who is stalking child psychologist Jocelyn Gold. A random event? Or a client’s revenge? When darkness falls, the danger deepens....

Review:
This is a really quick mystery that hops right into the action and suspense. Very quickly it appears there is an interest between Jocelyn and Sam that has not been acted on or expressed yet. First Sam comes just in time to rescue Jocelyn and then she seeks to help him from the same attacker. From there they have to figure out who is so angry at Jocelyn that they would seek to kill her.

The writing was sharp and fit with the fast paced story. I liked the characters even though there is a lot left to learn about them. The short plot worked for me for a quick read to fill in between review books. This was a good taste of the author’s writing and made me want to read more of these characters. This was written as a prequel and it's too bad I recently gave away the book: What Sarah Saw. I might have to get it on Kindle instead.

I have read and reviewed Ms. Daley before (Scorned Justice) and look forward to reading more suspense by this talented author.  I am fairly certain I have another Daley book in my TBR boxes that I can pull out to enjoy!

I read this from my Kindle free books TBR library as my October Just For Fun read.

Book Review, Feature and Giveaway Link: Lord Trowbridge’s Angel by G.G. Vandagriff

I found this Regency romance quite charming.

Lord Trowbridge’s Angel

by G.G. Vandagriff

• File Size: 382 KB
• Print Length: 236 pages
• Publisher: Orson Whitney Press 
• (July 18, 2013)
• Sold by: Amazon Digital Services, Inc.
• ASIN: B00E1ND0H2

Genre: Historical Romance, Regency

My Rating: 4.25 of 5.0

Book Description

Publication Date: July 18, 2013

The very handsome and very bored Lord Trowbridge knows something is missing in his existence. When he is asked by a friend to escort the seemingly quiet Miss Sophie Edwards to her first ball, he has no idea she possesses the key that will unlock him. It is her secret weapon.

Once he sees his own inner workings, his life unfolds in a different manner. He will do anything to capture the love of his "angel." Unfortunately, his old life and the shibboleths of the ton stand in his way. As he wades through these afflictions, Sophie is courted by another man. Who will she choose? How can he possibly show his love for her in a way as original and unique as she is? What are Sophie's feelings for him?

Review:
Sophia is a beautiful young woman who suffers a limp from a childhood riding accident. She remained in the country enjoying her violin skills rather than seeking the pressures of a London season. She finally comes to London for a come-out ball of a close friend and to visit family. There she meets the very handsome Lord Trowbridge.

Trowbridge is a known rake who is immediately charmed and smitten by Sophia who gives him tit for tat in their initial conversation. After meeting her he breaks off with his shrewish mistress, a married woman with whom he has become bored. He is surprised by the interest he feels for Sophia, his angel, based on their short association. Then he hears her music and it touches his heart and soul. He knows that she can give meaning to his life.

Trowbridge makes some wrong choices that place him at odds with Sophia and land him in a forced engagement to a young woman who is a friend of Sophia’s but has her own interest in Trowbridge. He has to extricate himself from the engagement and from the appearance of reckless, heartless behavior. With misunderstandings surrounding his actions, how can he manage not to hurt the friends reputation and how can he convince Sophia that he is sincere in his intentions and feelings?

Sophia is a charming young lady with strength of character to not be taken in by charm alone but also to allow grace and forgiveness. It was a little surprising that Lord Trowbridge made such a quick and complete turn from a rakish fellow to a fellow of purpose but it is not unthinkable. The descriptions were full so you could picture the setting, the attire and the behaviors. The writing style is gentle and sweet and reminded me very much of Georgette Heyer. This read quickly and I enjoyed the contretemps that occurred and the very sweet romance that succeeded through the obstacles. I would be glad to read more by G.G. Vandagriff.

Sophia’s attitude toward the ton and friends:

“I am content within a small circle of acquaintance. Instead of a breadth of friends, I infinitely prefer a depth of friendship.” Location 225.

I received this title to provide an honest review as part of BookBlast Blog Tour.

Tour Schedule

Praise for Lord Trowbridge's Angel

"Vandagriff's recipe for spinning a delightful story with so many unexpected twists and involvements is truly masterful." ~willsand

"Ms. Vandagriff is a master of description. She understands men and women and the nuances between them." ~ L. Glenn

"Vandagriff is quickly becoming an esteemed name on the shelves of regency romance. Lord Trowbridge's Angel is sweet, humorous, and of course romantic, and you'll become an instant fan." ~Heather Moore

Amazon

Excerpt:

    “Are you really so anxious for me to stay in London, then? We have scarcely conversed, my lord!”
    Smiling, he brought his head down nearer to her face and whispered, “Has no one ever told you that you have the face of an angel?”
    Sophie looked directly into his eyes. “You are very extravagant with your compliments, my lord. I do not know what to say, except that I am no angel.”
    Trowbridge raised her chin with his fingers. “I dare you to tell me your vices.”
    Looking into the cobalt eyes above her, she consulted her conscience. “I do not suffer fools. I lack patience in general, as a matter of fact. I’m afraid my manner is too abrupt for society. For instance, my lord, I must say I really do not think you should judge by appearances. People with angelic faces can be quite horrid on the inside.” She reminded herself of this fact as she studied his perfectly drawn eyebrows.
    At that moment, they were rejoined by Lady Melissa. “Oh, my dearest Sophie! I do so long to have a comfortable coze. You must come for tea tomorrow afternoon. Have you been long in Town?”
    “I arrived two days ago. I should be happy to come for tea tomorrow.”
    Sophie’s friend turned her attention to Lord Trowbridge. “My lord, how is it you know my friend?”
    “I am her brother-in-law’s heir. At least, until he has male offspring,” the viscount said.  “He thought we would suit. We met only this evening, and already Miss Edwards tries to deceive me. She insists she is no angel. What say you?”
    Lady Melissa giggled. “An angel? Sophie? She is a very good girl to be sure, my lord. But not an angel by any account!”
    “Oh, I am undone,” exclaimed Sophie, holding the back of her hand to her forehead. “All is lost.”
    “I will consider her angelic until I have evidence to the contrary,” Lord Trowbridge insisted.

Author G.G. Vandagriff

I realize that I am one of those rare people in the world who gets to live a life full of passion, romance, suspense, angst, fulfillment, humor, and mystery. I am a writer. Every day when I sit down at my computer, I enter into a world of my own making. I am in the head of a panoply of characters ranging from a nineteen-year-old Austrian debutante (The Last Waltz) to a raging psychopath (The Arthurian Omen) and four women at once in The Only Way to Paradise. Then there are the feisty heroines of my Regency romances . . .

I am a traditionally published,award-winning, best-selling writer who has recently gone Indie. I enjoy genre-hopping, having published a genealogical mystery series, two women's fiction novels, an historical epic, two suspense novels, five Regency romances, and a couple of non-fiction offerings.
With a BA from Stanford and an MA from George Washington University in International Relations, I somehow stumbled into finance. But, once my husband was through law school, I never wanted to do anything but write and raise kids. Now the kids are gone, but (even better) there are four grandchildren who provide my rewards for finishing a manuscript.

Aside from the grandchildren, my favorite things include: Florence, Italy; snow storms; Oreos; real hot chocolate; sweaters; Sundance Resort; lilacs; and dachshunds.

Website * Blog * Facebook * Twitter

Blog Tour Giveaway

$25 Amazon Gift Card or Paypal Cash

Ends 10/24/13

Open only to those who can legally enter, receive and use an Amazon.com Gift Code or Paypal Cash. Winning Entry will be verified prior to prize being awarded. No purchase necessary. You must be 18 or older to enter or have your parent enter for you. The winner will be chosen by rafflecopter and announced here as well as emailed and will have 48 hours to respond or a new winner will be chosen. This giveaway is in no way associated with Facebook, Twitter, Rafflecopter or any other entity unless otherwise specified. The number of eligible entries received determines the odds of winning. Giveaway was organized by Kathy from I Am A Reader, Not A Writer and sponsored by the author. VOID WHERE PROHIBITED BY LAW.

 a Rafflecopter giveaway

Mailbox Monday 10/14/13

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) but is now hosted at Mailbox Monday and through various blog hosts.
For OCTOBER: the Mailbox Monday Tour host is Gina @ Book Dragon’s Lair.
[Starting September, Bob of Beauty in Ruins will be the new back-up host for Mailbox Monday.]

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

I only received one review title from a publicist and picked up two through NetGalley this week.

Are your mailbox and TBR piles blooming?

Review Title

I received one eBook for review:

No Escape (Texas Rangers)

 by Mary Burton

Review and author interview to post 

with Giveaway on October 29

These two I picked up at NetGalley 

Lace & Lead, a novella
M.A. Grant
Romance, Sci Fi & Fantasy

and

Realm Walker
by Kathleen Collins
Romance, Sci Fi & Fantasy

Won

NONE

Purchased

I saw this while downloading some free Kindle reads. It looked interesting so good I purchased it for $.99.

Death By Bridle 3 (Mystery & Women Sleuths) (Josiah Reynolds Mystery 3)
by Abigail Keam

Free

I also downloaded about 15 of free Kindle Titles linked through Bookbub, Bookfun, Free Par-tay, Inspired Reads, Pixel of Ink or Kindle ebooks.