It's Monday What are You Reading? October 28, 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's been another strange week but not stressful. We got cold weather at the end of the week and had our first fire yesterday. Reading was fine; I finished three books and posted four reviews.  I posted one Tour Feature Giveaway.
I also posted the weekly Mailbox Monday, Friday Pick Giveaway, Saturday Snapshot, Sharing Beyond Books Comment Giveaway and Sunday Words.

I only did a little visiting last week and want to do more.
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 21, 2013.

• Mailbox Monday 10/21/13.

• Audible Book Review: The Chronology Protection Case by Paul Levinson, Mystery; my rating 4.25.

• Book Review and Tour Giveaway: Bargained for Bride by Marcia Lynn McClure, Historical Romance; my rating 4.25. Ends 11/12.
  

• Martha's Bookshelf***Friday Pick Giveaway October 25, 2013. Open Worldwide. Ends 10/31.

• Audible Book Review: Firestorm: Destroyermen Book 6 by Taylor Anderson, Alternate History, Sci Fi; my rating 4.25. 

• Saturday Snapshot October 26, 2013 Sweet Rose.

• Audio Book Review: A Reason to Live, A Marty Singer Mystery, Book 1, by Matthew Iden, Mystery; my rating 4.5. 

• Sharing Beyond Books #123 Comment Giveaway 10/26/13. Open Worldwide. Ends 11/1.

• Sunday Words of Encouragement October 27, 2013.
  

Finished Reading:

1. eBook/Kindle

No Escape (Texas Rangers)
Mary Burton
Really good Romantic Suspense.
Review, author Interview and Giveaway to post 10/29.
Click on book title for full description.

2. Audible/MP3

Third Grave Dead Ahead
by Darynda Jones
    Narrated by Lorelei King
        Series: Charley Davidson, Book 3
The second half did get better. :-) I'll post a review later this week. This is from my own Audible Library.
Click on book title for full description.

3. Audio/MP3

Battle for LA
Author: CJ Henderson, Mark Sparacio
Narrator: Full Cast
Publisher: AudioComics
This is audio comic - interesting.
I will post a review this week;
received from the Publisher 
through AudioBook Jukebox.
Click on book title for full description.

4. Print

Lady Jenny's Christmas Portrait 
by Grace Burrows
This is a colorful, lush story.
I am reviewing for Sourcebooks to post with ARC Giveaway the end of this week.
Click on book title for full description.

Line Edits/Releases:
Links to our two print books released this past week:
The Late Great Benjamin Bale and There's a Monster in Mommy's Tummy.
New poetry collection being released in ebook: Shades of Darkness and Light.

Working on formatting two more poetry collections.

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

Accidentally In Love With...A God? 
(Accidentally Yours)
by Mimi Jean Pamfiloff 
I am about 60% through this fast paced romance.
Review, Blitz and Giveaway to post on October 31.
Book Description
Publication Date: March 5, 2013
Trapped for decades, a powerful god seeks freedom . . . and revenge. But the only thing that can save him is the passion of a woman's touch . . . 

Emma Keane is your average city girl trying to get a date. There's just one thing holding her back: the disembodied male voice speaking to her through her mind. Sound kind of crazy? Maybe. But crazy turns downright deadly when the voice persuades her to travel to the wilds of the Mayan jungle. There she will free his body-his incredibly hot, muscled, naked body.

Humans are so frail, so undisciplined, so susceptible to love. And when this ancient being connects with Emma, the feelings she sparks drive him utterly mad. Protective, keep-her-close, never-let-her-go kind of mad. Which might not be such a bad thing because from the moment the beautiful, passionate Emma unshackles his body, they are hunted at every turn. Now he'll have to do everything in his power to keep her safe. But will it be enough?

2. Audio/MP3

Prime Suspects: A Clone Detective Mystery
by Jim Bernheimer
Narrated by Jeffrey Kafer
This is an really interesting futuristic detective story.
Publisher's Summary
Homicide Detective David Bagini awakens in a strange world only to discover that he is, in fact, the 42nd clone of the Bagini line. With no memories of why his Prime entered into a clone contract, he wants answers. The first problem is his Prime is dead and Bagini 42 is in charge of the investigation. The second problem is all the clues point at a clone from his line and they already know all his tricks. How can he solve his own murder when every suspect has his name and face?
©2012 Jim Bernheimer (P)2012 Jim Bernheimer

3. Print

The Last Christian: A Novel
by David Gregory
I will start this tonight or tomorrow morning.
This is our Ladies' Book Club selection for November 9.
Book Description
Publication Date: April 26, 2010
In the future, it’s possible to live forever—but at what cost?

A.D. 2088.
Missionary daughter Abigail Caldwell emerges from the jungle for the first time in her thirty-four years, the sole survivor of a mysterious disease that killed her village. Abby goes to America, only to discover a nation where Christianity has completely died out. A curious message from her grandfather assigns her a surprising mission: re-introduce the Christian faith in America, no matter how insurmountable the odds.

But a larger threat looms. The world's leading artificial intelligence industrialist has perfected a technique for downloading the human brain into a silicon form. Brain transplants have begun, and with them comes the potential of eliminating physical death altogether—but at what expense?

As Abby navigates a society grown more addicted to stimulating the body than nurturing the soul, she and Creighton Daniels, a historian troubled by his father's unexpected death, become unwitting targets of powerful men who will stop at nothing to further their nefarious goals. Hanging in the balance—the spiritual future of all humanity.

In this fast-paced thriller, startling near-future science collides with thought-provoking religious themes to create a spell-binding "what-if?" novel.

4. eBook/Kindle

Lace & Lead, a novella
by M.A. Grant
I will be reading this one from NetGalley.
Book Description
Publication Date: November 1, 2013
Breathtaking action, startling originality and polished story-telling combine in this futuristic Sci-Fi novella about a rough mercenary, a pampered daughter, and the lies they both believe.

Blue-blood Emmaline Gregson survived one of the most brutal mining accidents ever recorded in the Republic, but she's never been in a firefight. So when unknown assailants circle the family estate, the only man she can rely on is Peirce Taggart. A former Lawman turned mercenary, Peirce has a simple job: protect Emmaline until her father can collect her and sell her to sex trafficker Richard Stone to pay off his debts. But when Arthur Gregson tries to cheat his way out of the contract, Emmaline seizes the opportunity to hire Peirce for herself, regardless of how crude, dangerous, or appealing he may be. Given the chance for redemption, he promises to help her escape both her father and Stone. But Peirce soon realises that hiding her in his apartment until the storm has passed may be more dangerous than looking down the barrel of a gun...

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'm caught up to four titles due for reviews plus what I read this week. 
Looks like I'm reading for reviews to post the following week. 

October Scheduled
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

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 27, 2013

We had a beautiful worship service with a strong message. It is always a wonderful confirmation when our Sunday School lesson fits hand in hand with the Pastor’s sermon – all unplanned by man but no doubt guided by a the higher power. 

Our Sunday School teacher is continuing the lessons on end times in Revelation and other scriptures. Today he called his lesson “Conditions Are Ripe”.  He referred us to 2 Thessalonians 2 where Paul reminds the Christians of the community that the Day of the Lord will not come until there is rebellion (a turning from God) and the man of lawlessness (the antichrist) appears. He then directed us to 2 Timothy 3 where Paul describes the nature of people in the terrible times of the last days. ‘Men will be lovers of self, lovers of money,...disobedient to parents, ungrateful, unholy, ... without self control, ... lovers of pleasure rather than lovers of God — having a form of godliness but denying its power.’ (Verses 1-5.)

The end times will include: economic collapse – failing and weak churches – loss of morals – loss of peace – and chaos. Then the man of lawlessness will appear to offer false hope, false solutions and false religion to people who have lost their way. We are living in a time of self-absorbed people are we not? Even the churches seek to tickle the ears to gain numbers and make the congregant feel good rather than seeking commitment to discipleship.

Our Pastor then followed with a Sermon on Revelation 5:1-14, proclaiming the glory that is the believer’s hope to anticipate in spite of the doom of the world condition.  The intricacies of glory are beyond what we know or can even imagine but heaven, and creation, will sing a New Song (Revelation 5:9)!  And we can have that assurance in a time of great distress.

There were several wonderful songs I considered.

I chose this to emphasize the new song  and Glory of His Holiness.

Verses for Today:
2 Thessalonians 2:14-15 (NIV)
14 He called you to this through our gospel, that you might share in the glory of our Lord Jesus Christ.
15 So then, brothers and sisters, stand firm and hold fast to the teachings we passed on to you, whether by word of mouth or by letter.

As always - I give thanks and praise that I have a Hope and can face difficult times with assurance that my God is always in control.

Sharing Beyond Books #123 Comment Giveaway 10/26/13

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

Hey everyone!  Today was a relaxing sort of Saturday even though I did work in office this afternoon. I slept late, woke up and read a bit. My kind of morning!

We all agreed that talking on the cell phone at dinner or special events is rude. Emergencies are excepted but even then it is polite to get up and leave the table for just a quick call. Most of us also agreed texting at such times is also rude but Ricki and Nikki noted some exceptions there: sending out a quick phone image of the event/table and when the Bride and Groom specifically request instantgrams!

Six commenters always read all the back material and eleven of us read parts of the back material, sometimes but not all, always. :-)

Thank you to all who shared last week.

~~~~

The Winner from SBB #122 comments is: #1 Becky (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 #123

Q1. Miki asks: What was the best book contest you have ever won??

A: That would be back in December 2008/January 2009 when I won my first Kindle from Author Island Christmas Scavenger Hunt! When I received it in Spring 2009 is when I really started doing book reviews. :-)

(That is an old contest so don't waste time checking it out.
Image found at Support Perkins. )

Q2. My non-bookish Question this week: Ok - last year we shared our favorite part of Halloween season. Many of us said the candy. I couldn't let this Halloween pass without asking something so the Q is: What is the one (or if you must two) most favorite candy(ies) to get at Halloween??

A: There can be different candies at different times of year so this IS intended for Halloween. Although I do like the little packages of Smarties I will pick chocolate - and my favorite Halloween Chocolate would be Reese's Peanut Butter cups. Yum. (Then again, I wouldn't turn down the pictured bowl of goodies!)

Image found at MintLife Blog.

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.
Oh - Just realized this is the last week for October! So October Comments were submitted by: Becky, Elizabeth L, Marjorie and Miki. The Random pick winner for book/credit is: #3Marjorie!

Your turn to share:

Q1. Miki asks: What was the best book contest you have ever won??

Q2. My non-bookish Question this week: What is the one (or if you must two) most favorite candy(ies) to get at Halloween??

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, November 1, 2013 at 10 PM central.

Audio Book Review: A Reason to Live: A Marty Singer Mystery, Book 1

This is an engaging mystery and a good audio listen.

A Reason to Live: A Marty Singer Mystery, Book 1

    UNABRIDGED

    by Matthew Iden

    Narrated by Lloyd Sherr

    LENGTH    8 hrs and 10 mins
    RELEASE DATE    08-14-13
    PUBLISHER    Matthew Iden
Genre: Mystery
My Rating: 4.5 of 5.0

Publisher's Summary
In the late 90s, a bad cop killed a good woman and DC Homicide Detective Marty Singer got to watch as the murderer walked out of the courtroom a free man. Twelve years later, the victim's daughter comes to Marty begging for help: the killer is stalking her now. There's just one problem: Marty's retired...and he's retired because he's battling cancer. But with a second shot at the killer - and a first chance at redemption - Marty's just found…a reason to live.

©2012 Matthew Iden (P)2013 Matthew Iden

Review:
Marty Singer recently retired as a DC Homicide cop when he learned that he has cancer. Shortly before he is to begin his chemo treatments an unexpected visitor knocks on his door. Amanda is now a graduate student who remembers Marty as the lead Detective in the case against Michael Wheeler, her mother’s murderer from twelve years before. Although Wheeler walked free due to trial errors and lost evidence, Amanda is sure that Marty can help her. She needs protection because the killer is back, leaving white carnations at her door.

Marty vows to protect Amanda and sets off to try to locate Wheeler, a cop who was stalking Amanda's mother before the murder.  Wheeler apparently disappeared shortly after the trial and there is little trace to follow.  Marty seeks help from his old partner who is still angry about the botched trial but agrees to help.  Trying every lead he can, Marty practically accosts Julie, the defense attorney who represented Wheeler. The trial win should have jump-started her career but, because it was clear that the prosecution mishandled the case, she didn’t get the positive response she hoped for. She is pretty bitter about the whole matter and doesn’t really want to talk about it or Wheeler.

Amanda goes into hiding with Marty as she is still being followed.  Soon Marty discovers intruders in his home but he can’t figure out who these goons are who are ransacking his house for his files. Threats and circumstances change Julie’s mind so that now she returns to Marty and now all three are hiding from an unknown threat as well as the killer.  Marty continues to investigate even as his usual strength and reactions fail him due to weakening from the chemo treatments.

There is good suspense, action and twists in this mystery thriller. It is very sharp and realistic with ‘real-to-live’, characters complete with physical (age and illness), mental (madness and weakness) and moral (greed, pride and more) flaws. Some of the investigation paths lead to dead ends which adds to the realism.  Also, the primary hero being older and coping with cancer issues makes him an interesting character with more depth than some young, hot shot detective.

Mr. Iden does a good job of weaving in unexpected twists, a little bit of romance and a bit more of moral dilemmas that have the reader/listener pondering levels of madness, ethics, loyalty and honesty.  How far do professionals go to protect themselves, their families and their clients? I like Marty as a character and love the crisp suspense. I recommend this to mystery readers and would enjoy more suspense stories featuring Marty's tenacious pursuit.

Audio Notes: I was impressed with the narration by Lloyd Sherr. He was able to capture the emotional stresses of the characters and maintain the movement and suspense of the story. I was engaged for the full story and my assessment of the presentation is “well done.”

I received this audiobook for review from the author.

Saturday Snapshot October 26, 2013 Sweet Rose

Today's images are simple but with meaning. :-)

A week or so ago my DH brought a rose to me as I woke up.

Here is the bush:

Here is the rose in the vase.

And of the dozen of so pictures I took

I finally captured the dew droplets on the petals!

I had a great time visiting last weeks snapshots last night and I look forwarding to checking out your photo sharings this week.

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.

Audible Book Review: Firestorm: Destroyermen, Book 6, by Taylor Anderson

Book six continues the action and challenges facing the WWII Americans stranded in an alternate Earth where they battle new enemies.
Firestorm: Destroyermen, Book 6
    UNABRIDGED
    by Taylor Anderson

    Narrated by William Dufris
        Series: Destroyermen, Book 6
    LENGTH    18 hrs and 2 mins
    RELEASE DATE    10-10-11
    PUBLISHER    Tantor Audio
Genre: Alternate History
My Rating: 4.25 of 5.0

Publisher's Summary
Lieutenant Commander Matthew Reddy and the crew of the USS Walker find themselves caught between the nation they swore to defend and the allies they promised to protect. For even as the Allies and the Empire of New Britain Isles stand united against the attacks of both the savage Grik and the tenacious Japanese, the "Holy Dominion" - a warped mixture of human cultures whose lust for power overshadows even the Grik - is threatening to destroy them both with a devastating weapon neither can withstand.
©2010 Taylor Anderson. (P)2011 Tantor

Review:
I continue to enjoy this series, now in book six, which is full of action and human stories. I appreciate how the author tucks in social and political discussions or comments through the actions of the characters. As one example, the proper British Commander, Jenks, now Captain Reddy’s friend and traveling with him, questions attacking the Dominion ships without a warning shot. Captain Reddy points out that he doesn’t think such a step is needed when the enemy has already shown themselves without honor in their surprise attack against civilians at the New British Isles.

As they prepare for battle, one of the commanders comments:
“Plan for the best but prepare for the worst. Every battle is won or lost in the planning; in the mind before the first sword is ever fought.” They had to learn that they could not leave quarter to an enemy that would accept no surrender. “Any we don’t kill today, we will have to kill tomorrow.” There are other interesting comments on war including the theme of ‘killing murderers is not murder, but war with a certain justice in it.’

It is engaging to watch (read/listen) as Mr. Anderson shows the Grik, or at least some of them, becoming more than the savages they were in the first book. Some are now learning and changing their attitudes and there are even ‘civilian’ Grik who have become aides to the leaders of the Grand Alliance!

Although this might not be quite as exciting as the last book this is still engaging and left me anxious to follow the challenges of the characters into book seven!

Audio Notes: I can't think of much new to add to my previous comments on Dufris' excellent narration of this series.  I am continually amazed at the numerous voices and characters he successfully portrays.  His narration makes the listening a great enjoyment for me.

Here is a summary of some of the activities in this installment:

• Captain Reddy and the crew on USS Walker are traveling on to the ‘Colonies’ (headed towards what in our world would be southern California) to give warning against suspected attack by the Dominion. Unfortunately the enemy arrives before warning can help. The American and Imperial British ships begin to hammered the surprised Dominion ships but then receive their own surprise when attacked by flock of dragons dropping stones!
•  The marine troops under General Pete Alden, including Lemurians and some airplane support, are facing Grik at ‘Indiaa’ Salan in the ongoing Navy war. Frigate Skippers, Greg Garrett (Ship Donaghey), Russ Chapelle, Lemurian Captain Bakia and others, are serving as a blockade against the Griks to prevent communication with their homeland. The Griks are stretching and growing in their war tactics with the help of Hige Halik and Japanese General Niwa. The Grik manage a surprise trick to lure the Alliance close enough to damage the ships so they end up on the beach in a terrible, nearly overwhelming battle.
•  Several ships, with head of nurses, Lieutenant Sandra Tucker, New Britain Princess Rebecca, and salty sailor Silva, are traveling to New Ireland to assist in the battle there. Sandra had hoped to get to see Captain Reddy but he has already headed out to the colonies. 
•  Major Chack Sab-at (a highly respected Lemurian leader and warrior) and Major Blair (Imperial British) are busy at New Ireland and New Wales fighting the murdering Dominion. They receive some help from the local civilians who recognize that their interests were abandoned by their authorities but meanwhile there is concern about a spy in their midst.
•  There is a rescue of emaciated men who were being mistreated as prisoners of war on the Japanese prison ship Mizuki Maru which has now been transported to the alternate Earth. One of the men of the group is Orrin Reddy, a pilot and a cousin of Matt Reddy. Orrin joins with Silva to help in the battle at New Wales.
•  The Grik show up with another surprising weapon, Zeppelins. Only the salvaged PBY aircraft are able to defend against them and prevent disaster to the Alliance leaders and the ship yards at Baalkpan. 
•  High Priest Adar, Admiral Keje and Rohlac meet to discuss overall plans for ongoing engagement of the enemy and protection of the people. Some of the men returning from other battles and the rescued prisoners look for new assignments deciding where they should serve next.

This is from my Audible Library. I have book seven, Iron Gray Sea, downloaded and waiting for after a few review audio books. :-)

Martha's Bookshelf***Friday Pick Giveaway October 25, 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!!  Another week gone in October - whew! Glad I was overly busy at work as my assistant was sick these two days.

[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 18 Pick. There were two 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 THREE blocked titles this week!
Rita gets Fullfillment
bn100 gets the Susan Spenser Paul Pair

CONGRATULATIONS
to Random.org picked Winners from October 18 Pick:

Crystal gets Trouble Becomes Her (through a block)

Anita gets Dance With Me

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.}

Since next Friday will be past Halloween I decided to use this image this week. :-)

Image found at paperblog.

New Book Group #42 September 27, 2013

Pairs:
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

Singles:
Wicked and Wonderful by Valerie King
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:
      (Angels) Not Quite An Angel by Bobby Hutchinson and An Angel for Dry Creek by Janet Tronstad
Singles:
Breakfast in Bed by Sandra Brown - Audio Cassette Tapes
Dance With Me by Luanne Rice
A Mother's Day Anthology - three stories
Star Light, Star Bright by Katherine Stone
Another View by Rosamunde Pilcher

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.

Singles:
Touched by Fire by Kathleen O'Reilly
Shetland Summer by Janet Lynnford
That Summer by Joan Wolf
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.

Sheer Dynamite by Jennifer Skully
Golden Chances by Rebbecca Hagen Lee
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.
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) 
*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---(All gone)

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


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 580+ 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
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

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---(All gone)

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

Pick #10---(All Gone)

Book Review and Tour Giveaway: A Bargained for Bride by Marcia Lynn McClure

This is a delightfully sweet romance novella that was a treat to read.

Bargained-For Bride
by Marcia Lynn McClure

Amazon * Distractions Ink

• File Size: 1025 KB
• Print Length: 127 pages
• Publisher: Distractions Ink; 1st edition (September 24, 2013)
• Sold by: Amazon Digital Services, Inc.
• ASIN: B00FEZRGN0

Genre: Historical Romance
My Rating: 4.25 of 5.0

Book Description
Publication Date: September 24, 2013
Excerpt:
“You’re the sweetest girl in Mourning Dove Creek, you know?” Jack mumbled as he paused in kissing Jilly a moment.

Jilly smiled. “And you’re the handsomest man in Mourning Dove Creek, you know,” she flirted in return.

Jack smiled. “I do know,” he said.

Jilly giggled. Jack Taylor was so predictable—and a little conceited. He really did think he was the handsomest man in Mourning Dove—and he was, for the most part.

Secretly, however, if Jilly ever allowed herself to be completely honest about it (which she tried to avoid), there was one other man in Mourning Dove who always crossed her mind when the subject of the handsomest man in town arose. Yet there was no lingering on thinking of that man—no sirree! Not for a moment! Not for any reason—ever. And so Jilly just kept telling Jack that he was the handsomest man in Mourning Dove Creek. Besides, it was almost true—being that the other man lived outside of town and not right in town the way Jack did.

Review:
Jilly is a young lady of 18 or so who has allowed herself to be charmed by the best looking man in town, Jack. Jack already has a reputation for playing loose with the hearts of the young ladies, but Jilly just doesn’t want to believe it.  Jilly lives with her aging grandparents, who have raised her carefully and are determined to find a way to protect her, even when they pass on.

One afternoon Boone Ramsey approaches Jilly’s grandfather seeking her hand. Boone is a loner who managed to make a success of his family ranch outside of town even after his parents died when he was just barely a teen. Boone has a reputation for being the one to call on for help and rescue. He always comes to the aid of his neighbors and helps out in dangerous situations.

Jilly is upset that her grandfather would promise her hand to Boone when he knows she has her mind set on Jack. Secretly she thinks Boone is really the handsomest man about the area but why would he want her? And if she did accept him would she have to worry as he goes about helpeing and saving everyone else?

Boone has never forgotten the special Christmas gift that Jilly gave him after the death of his parents. He has a tender spot for her and believes that something special can grow between them. Now he just has to convince her to accept what he has to offer out of true affection and not to spite Jack or her grandparents.

I really enjoyed the tender give and take of this old fashioned couple. Boone is a lovely character and willing to help Jilly grow beyond her immature feelings and anger. The writing is interesting as it has a very country aspect, almost hickish. It is suitable for the historical characters that are being portrayed, especially the sheltered, naive Jilly. There is a foundation of good quality in both Jilly and Boone.  I really liked how Ms. McClure displayed how Jilly learned from the strong, quite faith of her grandmother and the loving, tender joy of the relationship between her grandparents. There was a paragraph at the end that was so wonderful I came home and shared it with my own DH.

This is a quick, easy read and a very enjoyable sweet romance. Ms. McClure added some 'snippits' as an afterword that explained the inspiration for the story and some word history that I enjoyed too. This is the first book I have read by this author and I would be glad to read more. If you have not yet tried Ms. McClure's books I recommend this as a fine quick read to try out.

I received this title for an honest review as part of BookBlast Tour. Don't miss the other giveaway opportunity at the BookBlast post.

Tour Schedule

A Bargained-For Bride by Marcia Lynn McClure (Novella)
Amazon * Distractions Ink

Author Marcia Lynn McClure

Marcia Lynn McClure’s intoxicating succession of novels, novellas, and e-books, has established her as one of the most favored and engaging authors of true romance. Her unprecedented forte in weaving captivating stories of western, medieval, regency, and contemporary amour void of brusque intimacy has earned her the title “The Queen of Kissing.”

Marcia, who was born in Albuquerque, New Mexico, has spent her life intrigued with people, history, love, and romance. A wife, mother, grandmother, family historian, poet, and author, Marcia Lynn McClure spins her tales of splendor for the sake of offering respite through the beauty, mirth, and delight of a worthwhile and wonderful story.

Blog Tour Giveaway

$25 Amazon Gift Card or Paypal Cash

Ends 11/12/13

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 http://iamareader.com and sponsored by the author. VOID WHERE PROHIBITED BY LAW.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Audible Book Review: The Chronology Protection Case by Paul Levinson

This short mystery dramatization packs an active dilemma of time paradox to the extreme!
The Chronology Protection Case
by Paul Levinson


LENGTH    38 mins
RELEASE DATE    01-01-05
PUBLISHER    Listen & Live Audio
Genre: Mystery, Dramatization
My Rating: 4.25 of 5.0

Publisher's Summary
The radio play of "The Chronology Protection Case" was adapted by Mark Shanahan with Paul Levinson, based on the novelette by Paul Levinson which first appeared in the pages of Analog magazine in September 1995. The script of the radio adaptation was nominated for a prestigious Edgar Allan Poe Award as "Best Play of 2003" by the Mystery Writers of America.

The radio play was initially performed live before a studio audience at the Museum of TV & Radio in September of 2002. It was subsequently recorded at CDM Studios in New York City in 2003, featuring a cast of nine actors, with an original sound design and score. The CDM recording was produced by Charles de Montebello and Mark Shanahan.

"The Chronology Protection Case" radio play, a science fiction murder mystery, features Shanahan in the role of Dr. Phil D'Amato, the forensic detective who appears in Levinson's acclaimed novels, The Silk Code, The Consciousness Plague, and The Pixel Eye. When D'Amato is approached by the distraught wife of a missing scientist whose work is embroiled in secrecy, he is plunged into an adventure with a terrifying and powerful force of nature at the heart of a series of mysterious deaths.
©1995 Paul Levinson; (P)2005 Listen & Live Audio, Inc.

Review:
This is a dramatized story featuring forensic Detective, Dr. Phil D’Amato. Phil is called by Dr. Lauren Goldring, a physicist married to another physicist, Ian Goldring, who specializes in quantum physics. Ian was working on a device to send signals that would travel faster than light particles. But Ian has disappeared. As Phil begins searching for Dr. Goldring he discovers Ian with three gun shot wounds. Then Lauren turns up dead from an allergic reaction to sedative that Phil requested.

Phil works with Detective Lieutenant Jannie to pursue the case and he calls a Science and Research Journalist friend, Jack who dies next day. There were six people working on the special project and now four are already dead. The two survivors are not talking and all evidence of discussions and correspondence, even emails have been erased.

Now there is only one. Phil meets with Dr. Julie Fenwick, the only remaining survivor from the research project. Their discussion is remarkably intense as they try to figure out how to avoid becoming the next to die as time... or something or someone... protects itself.

There was no in depth character development but the plot line carried the story. Although the science of quantum physics would be difficult for most of us non-scientific types to follow, the impact of the time paradox was still understandable and created the basis of a unique mystery.

Audio Notes: This is a great audio dramatization that reminded me of radio dramas from the years before television – although the quality is much better. If you enjoy listening to fun stories, this is a quick mystery with an ironically twisted plot.

I received this download for review from the Author through AudioBook Jukebox.

Five Winners! Convict Dad, Sisterhood, My Lady Quicksilver and These Boots...

I apologize that I haven't kept up with picking and announcing winners these past two months. It seems like it has been easier for me to find a time when I can pick several at a time instead of once each weekend. Either I have to get back on track each weekend or announce that I will be announcing winners at four week intervals.
Also, I have been behind in delivering wins and my assistant has a box of books to mail out.
Anyone waiting to receive a giftcard/paypal those will all be up-to-date tomorrow.
Anyone waiting to get a book - they should be mailed out by the end of this week. 
Thank you all for being patient!

Giveaway Ended September 30, 2013

Giveaway Review Copy:

Convict Dad 

 by P. Ryan Hempree

Winner: bn100

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Giveaway Ended October 11, 2013

Giveaway: Sisterhood 

by Deleyna Marr

Winner: Meghan

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Giveaways Ended October 18, 2013

Giveaway: My Lady Quicksilver 

by Bec McMaster 

Winner: Jess1

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Giveaway: These Boots Weren't Made for Walking 

by Melody Carlton

Winners: Vicki (email: irb...)

and rubynreba

bn100, Meghan, Jess1, Vicki and Rubynreba Please fill in the Winner's Acceptance Form or email me at mesreads AT gmail.com to confirm the win and I will arrange the mailing, as I have all of these books available.  Please reply within 72 hours!

Mailbox Monday October 21, 2013

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 received three review titles: two ebook and one audio.

Are your mailbox and TBR piles blooming?

Review Title

I received two eBooks from Hachette for review:

Accidentally In Love With...A God? (Accidentally Yours)
Mimi Jean Pamfiloff
Review and Blitz to post on October 31

and

Accidentally Married to...A Vampire?

(Accidentally Yours)
Mimi Jean Pamfiloff

Review and Blitz to post

 on November 20

This Audio received through AudioBook Jukebox.

Battle for LA
Author: CJ Henderson, Mark Sparacio
Narrator: Full Cast
Publisher: AudioComics

Won

NONE

Purchased

Once again I made a $.99 purchase while downloading some free Kindle reads.

A Time Travel Fantasy Bundle: 

Footsteps in Time/Prince of Time (The After Cilmeri Series Books One and Two)

by Sarah Woodbury

Free

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