It's Monday What are You Reading? November 18, 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.

I am continuing to heal with a little bit of swelling and discomfort, especially if I do too much.  Like Tuesday morning when I had to wash, blow dry and style my hair (all with my right arm) for the first time since surgery. I had a function at 10am and I was exhausted when I got there. My body is clearly more fragile than I think. :-)  I had a busy work week so came home tired each evening.

I finished four books but got behind in reviews since I was tired at night.  I did post one ARC giveaway. 
I also posted the regular weekly memes and posts: Mailbox Monday, Friday Pick Giveaway, Saturday Snapshot, Sharing Beyond Books Comment Giveaway and Sunday Words.

Again, I didn't get to visit much during the week. I have to make a new plan to get to visit. 
Thanks as always to all the nice people who visit me.

These were last week's posts:

• It's Monday What are You Reading? November 11, 2013.

• Mailbox Monday 11/11/13.

• Book Review and Giveaway: Lady Jenny's Christmas Portrait by Grace Borrowes, Historical Romance; my rating 4.25.  Ends 11/22.

• Book Review: Lace & Lead by M.A. Grant, Sci Fi Romance; my rating 4.5. 

• Martha's Bookshelf***Friday Pick Giveaway November 15, 2013. Open Worldwide. Ends 11/21.

• Saturday Snapshot November 16, 2013 - Potting Plants

• Sharing Beyond Books #126 Comment Giveaway 11/17/13. Open Worldwide. Ends 11/22.

• Sunday Words of Encouragement November 17, 2013.
  

Finished Reading:
1. eBook/Kindle

Waning Moon (The Chronicles of Lily Carmichael trilogy)
PJ Sharon
This is engaging and interesting. 
I will post a review soon.
Click on book title for full description.

2. Audio

Five Million Dollar Cat: A Novella
    UNABRIDGED
    by Laura Lond
    Narrated by Tavia Gilbert
This is a quick, delightful listen.
I will post a review later this week.
Click on book title for full description.

3. eBook/Kindle

Sanctuary 
by Pauline Creeden
This is an interesting apocalyptic view in an engaging story.
BookBlast Tour Review and Giveaway to post on November 19.
Click on book title for full description.

4. Print
 

To Have and to Hold
by Leigh Greewood
This is a solid romance read.
I will be posting the review with ARC giveaway 
by end of week.
Click on book title for full description.

Line Edits/Releases:
I am formatting for two print releases this week.

Enter the bi-monthly drawings at eTreasures Publishing Facebook page.
This week's giveaway link: Rolltop Relic by Barbara Miller; a mystery.

Currently reading:
1. eBook/Kindle

Accidentally Married to...A Vampire? (Accidentally Yours)
by Mimi Jean Pamfiloff
This is another fun, sassy read.
Book Feature and Giveaway to post 11/20.
Book Description
Publication Date: March 5, 2013
This is book 2 in the New York Times and USA Today bestselling paranormal romance Accidentally Yours series.

"If you love her, set her free. If she comes back, she's yours. If she doesn't...Christ! Stubborn woman! Hunt her down, and bring her the hell back; she's still yours according to vampire law."

- Niccolo DiConti, General of the Vampire Queen's Army.

After a three-century "time out," legendary vampire Niccolo DiConti vows to fulfill an ancient prophecy and, along the way, defeat the demented queen of the damned. All he has to do is find his human mate, seduce her into agreeing to become a vampire, and bond her to him forever. Luckily, he's handsome, charming, and mind-blowing in bed. How hard could this be?

On vacation in sultry Mexico, biologist Helena Strauss makes the discovery of a lifetime when she meets Niccolo-and finds herself caught in a world of supernatural secrets and dangerous delights. Even more shocking is that he seems to know everything about her and claims her as his true immortal companion. Sure, she can't take her eyes-or mouth-off this gorgeous, perfect being. But can a hot-blooded gal like her really settle down with a cold-hearted vampire?

2. Audio

The Last Battle:
When US and German Soldiers Joined Forces in the Waning Hours of World War II in Europe
       by Stephen Harding
    Narrated by Joe Barrett
I am finding this very interesting.
I received this for review
through Audiobook Jukebox.
Publisher's Summary

May 1945. Hitler is dead, and the Third Reich is little more than smoking rubble. No GI wants to be the last man killed in action against the Nazis. But for cigar-chewing, rough-talking, hard-drinking, hard-charging Captain Jack Lee and his men, there is one more mission: rescue 14 prominent French prisoners held in an SS-guarded castle high in the Austrian Alps. It's a dangerous mission, but Lee has help from a decorated German Wehrmacht officer and his men, who voluntarily join the fight.

Based on personal memoirs, author interviews, and official American, German, and French histories, The Last Battle is the nearly unbelievable story of the most improbable battle of World War II - a tale of unlikely allies, bravery, cowardice, and desperate combat between implacable enemies.

3. Print

Don't Want to Miss a Thing
by Jill Mansell
I am looking forward to starting this tomorrow.
Book Description
Publication Date: November 5, 2013

He knows all about women, or so he thought...

Dexter Yates leads a charmed existence in London, with money, looks, and girlfriends galore. Life's fantastic until Dex's sister dies and his world changes overnight. Astonishing everyone, including himself, Dex leaves the city behind, takes charge of his eight-month-old niece Delphi, moves to a beautiful Cotswolds village, and sets about working on his parenting skills. His neighbors, including cartoonist Molly Hayes, seem friendly enough—but Dex can't shake the notion that he's missing something important.

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 will still be working on poetry formatting this week.

I want to keep enjoying adding stories from my own TBR. :-)
I'm up-to-date on reading but have a back load for reviews now. About 7 so I'll have to do more the next few weeks to catch up. 

November Scheduled

11/19 BookBlast Tour Review: Sanctuary by Pauline Creeden
11/20 Review and Giveaway: I Accidentally Marred a Vampire (Reading)
11/25 Entangled Book Blast and Review: Christmas Past by Susanna Fraser

Sourcebooks:
   Don’t Want to Miss a Thing by Jill Mansell (Print) (reading)

NetGalley:
   ---

Authors:
   Unfinished Business by Carolyn R. Aspenson

AudioBook Jukebox 
    The New Space Opera 2

From TBR Collection - TBD
Won Book -Waning Moon (read, review to post)
Free Kindle/Nook or Smashwords: TBD

Sunday Words of Encouragement November 17, 2013

[As always, my comments are based on Pastor’s sermon with a bit of interpretation and/or summarizing from me.] 

This morning’s sermon was entitled A Night in the Hardrock Motel and was centered on Jacob’s story in Genesis 28.  Jacob was in trouble for stealing his brother’s blessing. Jacob’s mother, Rebekah,  convinced his father, Isaac, to send Jacob away, back to her family, to seek a wife. Jacob was in distress, estranged from his brother and father, in turmoil, away from home, fearful and worrying about selecting a wife.  As Jacob approached a certain place outside of his destination the sun was setting.  “Taking one of the stones there, he put it under his head and lay down to sleep.” Genesis 28:11. The Lord appeared in Jacob’s dream; stood above him and made promises. Verse 12-14.

‘That place’ was a lonely, hard, rocky place... not a gentle, fertile valley.  When in a desert, dry place you can find vultures looming for death or hummingbirds looking for new life in the fresh flowers. One focused on what was the other looking to the present. Do you dwell on what was or take joy in what is?  Instead of accepting the hard place, let your rock be Jesus’ strength and peace. (1 Cor 10:4.)  Jesus brings calm, ‘Peace’, in trouble. Mark 4:37-38. 

When Jacob awoke he recognized the place as a place of God and he made a promise back that  ‘the Lord will be my God.’  We shouldn’t give up when we know God is on our side. Gen 28:13-17. Fear is a faith killer but Faith is a fear killer. Our purpose in life is not to “be comfortable” but to radiate God’s Love to glorify Him.

I set this song aside a few weeks ago but it fits today.
I trust and He is Faithful to give me peace and to never let go of me!

A Verse for Today:
Genesis 28:15 NIV)
15 “...I am with you and will watch over you wherever you go, and I will bring you back to this land. I will not leave you until I have done what I have promised you.”

Thank you Lord for being there to calm us through the hard places until we are walking smoothly with You by trusting You!

Sharing Beyond Books #126 Comment Giveaway 11/16/13

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

I hope everyone is enjoying November. I had a busy week and am tired tonight.

The group is pretty well split with 10 who are in home towns and 10 who have moved around from state to state or even country to country. Sarah moved at least 11 times and Rita has lived in three different countries.

I was also surprised that few of you keep lists of your wins. Many of you used to keep lists and many keep track to make sure you get the book wins. You sort of have to have some list or folder if you are going to track. :-)

Thank you to all who shared last week.

~~~~

The Winner from SBB #125 comments is: #7 Ricki 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 #126

Q1. Brooke asks: Do you read just one book at a time or more than one??

A: I am a multi-book reader. I almost always have three going at a time: Print, Audio and Kindle. I try to mix genres but that doesn't always happen. It can be especially confusing to be reading two mysteries or romantic suspense at the same time. :-).   

I don't read and listen at the same time.

Image found at The Culture Concept

Q2. My non-bookish Question this week: Would you consider yourself a good patient or not -- not being demanding, cranky or some other not so nice reaction??

A: I don't get sick very often. However, now that I am recovering from surgery I find that I can be cranky if really tired. And clearly I don't rest enough. That is really hard for me to do even if it could give more reading time. So I would say I am not such a bad patient for others in my family but maybe not such a good patient for allowing healing. 

I'm not THAT bad!

Image found at The Guardian.

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. Brooke asks: Do you read just one book at a time or more than one??

Q2. My non-bookish Question this week: Would you consider yourself a good patient or not -- not being demanding, cranky or some other not so nice reaction??

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 22, 2013 at 10 PM central.

Saturday Snapshot November 16, 2013 - Potting Plants

I wasn't sure what my plans were this morning other than taking the day easy. Then my DH advised me that he found strawberries in the garden that he was tilling. So that became my project and the cause of a very late Saturday posting.

Here are the strawberries I pulled from the garden.

Here is my work table/area - rather messy.

Here are the completed pots.
(Note doggies were keeping us company outside.)

Meanwhile my DH was out in the field digging up another stump.

I overdid a little I guess as I was very tired when I came in so I took a nap. When I got up my incision area was a bit swollen. It is most annoying that I am learning that I have limitations I have to pay better attention to.

I don't think I got to visit last week as it was a super busy week at the office. I can't even remember the beginning of the week and I am behind in posting reviews. *Sigh.*
I hope everyone else is doing well and I will maybe try visiting a couple a day this week. Thanks again for visits and well wishes!

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.

Martha's Bookshelf***Friday Pick Giveaway November 15, 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!!  Oh Yikes! It's Thursday night already?? Time to prepare Friday Post when I really want to crawl in bed. :-) This has been a busy week and I've had some discomfort and fatigue.  I was going to take half a day off today but then my assistant went home sick and I had plenty to keep me at my desk until 6pm. Maybe I can leave early tomorrow.

Meanwhile I still hope everyone else is doing well!

[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 November 8 Pick. I thought I might have only blocked titles or GC entries to pick from after finding there were FOUR Automatic wins this 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 only two titles blocked this week again but one with 4 picks.
Carol M gets The Hangman's Beautiful Daughter
Elizabeth L gets Merger of Fortune
Linda K gets A Mother's Day Anthology
nightowl gets the Tara Taylor Quinn pair

CONGRATULATIONS
to Random.org picked Winners from November 8 Pick:
I picked three this week because November is the anniversary month for Friday Picks so I will be choosing extra winners all month! :-)
All GCs this pick.

Mary Pgets a GC

mariska gets a GC
Llehn gets a GC/PayPal Credit 

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.}

Image found at Crafting with Katie. 

A couple of THANKS with books are appropriate for the next couple of weeks!

New Book Group! #43 November 1, 2013

Pairs
Mary Higgins Clark
     Before I Say Good-bye and Where Are the Children>
Suzanne Enoch
     Lessons in Love The Rake and Sin and Sensibility
Diana Palmer (Choose any two)
    Lawless, Diamond Spur, Long Tall Texan and Brides to Be (spine creased)
Kate Wilhelm
     Desperate Measures and No Defense
SINGLES:
Never Tell by Karen Young (spine torn)
Father for Keeps by Ana Seymour
Crimson Rain by Meg O’Brien
Dove in the Window by Earlene Fowler
Cutwork by Monica Ferris
A Woman Named Damaris by Janette Oke

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 on 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 590+ books 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: Lace & Lead by M.A. Grant

I highly recommend this action packed, strong romance novella.

Lace & Lead, a novella

by M.A. Grant

• File Size: 692 KB
• Print Length: 102 pages
• Publisher: Escape Publishing - Harlequin Enterprises, Australia Pty Ltd (November 1, 2013)
• ASIN: B00FB3MWN4

Genre: Sci Fi Romance
My Rating: 4.5 of 5.0

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...

Review:
Emmaline is a pampered daughter of a wealthy man. She has always had maids and has never had to take care of herself or perform simple household chores. She did however survive a terrifying, brutal mining disaster that left her with nightmares. Her wealthy father has hired a ruthless team of mercenaries to protect Emmaline as she is now his most valuable asset. Emmaline doesn’t know it yet but her father has agreed to sell her to a known sex trafficker in satisfaction of all of his debts.

Emmaline became smitten with the head ‘bad boy’ mercenary, Pierce Taggert, as soon as she saw him. He is a ruggedly handsome ex-Lawman with a confident swagger, a foul mouth and oozing sexuality.

Pierce and his men face an unexpected attack and the clues lead back to a double cross by Emmaline’s Father. Pierce takes Emmaline into hiding as he tries to figure out what to do - first to protect her and then what to do with her! He’d like to treat Emmaline as just another paycheck but there is something about her fresh, naive trust and her willing determination to survive that makes him pause. He remembers another young lady who followed his example working in mechanics and war service. He wasn’t there to save her and the loss has left an emptiness filled only with his guilt. Perhaps he can redeem himself by saving Emmaline from those who would use her, including her father.

This is a quick, fast-paced story with action from beginning to end. The setting isn’t completely fleshed out although there is enough to keep it interesting. The strength of the story is in the characters who are likeable and grab your attention, the action packed plot and the vulnerable romance. The strong combination outweighed the bad language and I enjoyed the story reading through it in practically one sitting. I would be interested in trying other works by Ms. Grant. I highly recommend this to readers who enjoy romance and action.

I received this title from the publisher through NetGalley.

Book Review and ARC Giveaway: Lady Jenny's Christmas Portrait by Grace Burrows

This is a charming, colorful Regency that is rich in theme and presentation.
Lady Jenny's Christmas Portrait 
by Grace Burrowes

• Series: Windham Series
• Mass Market Paperback: 384 pages
• Publisher: Sourcebooks Casablanca (September 24, 2013)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 140226383X

Genre: Historical Romance
My Rating: 4.25 of 5.0

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.

Review:
Lady Jenny isn’t prepared to resign herself to becoming the eccentric maiden aunt of her family. They already are passing her from household to household to keep her busy. Meanwhile she sketches and paints while they scoff at her art because noble ladies, much like noble men, are not to engage in or be serious about pursuits like art. Jenny has decided that, even though it will be hard to leave her family behind, she will go to Paris after Christmas so that she can study art and seek respect for her talent.

Elijah Harrison is a well respected artist who has accepted a commission to do a portrait of Lady Jenny’s nephews. He hopes the juvenile portrait will be a success that will finally earn him a spot in the prestigious Royal Academy for the Arts. Then he can return home and show his titled father that his art isn’t a frivolous waste of time. Elijah is surprised to discover that Jenny loves art as much as he does but she is stifled by a family that has not shown appreciation for her talent. He thinks her work is amazing for an untrained artist and he finds her a delightful help working with the young boys and then again with her own parents. It is only Elijah’s long years of discipline that help him control his attractions to her as they work side by side sharing critiques and advise.

Jenny is thrilled to be working with Elijah who can understand her passion for art and her frustrations with her family. They soon begin to share a passionate attraction beyond their painting talent and Jenny is willing to push Elijah to explore that. Elijah has a high sense of honor but he is hard pressed to deny Jenny her dreams, even if it means letting her go to Paris when he really wants to keep her by his side.

I enjoyed the strong passionate spirits yet gentle love between these characters. I liked how their struggle and conflicts with familial issues and approval have impacted the decisions that have placed them where they are and direct the plans they are each making. The conflict kept me interested to see how it would get resolved.

I think this could be read as a stand alone but the reader might miss the richness of the preceeding stories for the family memebers.  I enjoyed the input of characters from earlier books. Burrowes consistently provides strong characters, good conflict and suitable charm. Although the beginning of this book seemed to be moving slowly, I discovered that the pacing suited the story. The writing is not rushed but paints a beautiful story, rich with the colors, textures and smells of the artists which made it vivid and a delight to read.

Enjoy this descriptive warmth as Jenny realizes that Ethan truly cares about her feelings:

   He was worried about her.
   Outside, the day was dreary, a winter morning making little effort to shrug off a blanket of clouds. Inside Jenny's heart, a rainbow sprang up, bright and warm.   Page 114.

I received this title 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; Comment on the review OR Tell me if you have a favorite story by Grace Burrowes OR share why you would like to read this title.

* This contest is open to those with U.S. addresses only..
* This contest will close 10 PM (Central) on November 22, 2013.
The winner will be randomly selected from all entries.
WINNERS WILL BE ANNOUNCED after November 22, 2013.
Winners will have 72 hours to respond by email or the winners form linked in the announcement.

Mailbox Monday November 11, 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 NOVEMBER: the Mailbox Monday Tour host is Crystal @ I totally paused! 
[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 two audios for review this week and one lovely gift.

Are your mailbox and TBR piles blooming?

Review Titles

These two Audios received through AudioBook Jukebox.

Title: The Last Battle
Author: Stephen Harding
Narrator: Joe Barrett
Publisher/Date: Blackstone Audio, 08/30/13

WWII, History, Nonfiction

and

Title: The New Space Opera 2
Editor: Gardner Dozois, Jonathan Stahan
Author: Various
Narrator: Various
Publisher/Date: Blackstone Audio, 09/01/13

You know - I like sci fi adventure. :-)

Won

THIS title was a lovely GIFT. The author saw my daughter's somewhat panicked post about my surgery on facebook and shared this book with us.  I am looking forward to reading it in a few weeks. :-)



Let Me Get This Off My Chest: A Breast Cancer Survivor Over-Shares
by Margaret Lesh

Purchased

None that I can think of right now.

Free

I only downloaded 30 free Kindle Titles this week, linked through Bookbub, Bookfun, Free Par-tay, Inspired Reads, Pixel of Ink or Kindle ebooks.
You would think I would stop wouldn't you? *Sigh*

It's Monday What are You Reading? November 11, 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.

I am doing pretty good this week. A little discomfort and soreness but not really pain.  

Reading is still good.  I finished four books and managed to squeeze in four reviews as I had hoped.  There were two launch Blitzes with Giveaways, a Kindle Giveaway and one review print giveaway.
I also posted the regular weekly memes and posts: Mailbox Monday, Friday Pick Giveaway, Saturday Snapshot, Sharing Beyond Books Comment Giveaway and Sunday Words.

Where did the week go? I don't think I got to visit much during the week. I will have to try harder.
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? November 4, 2013.

• Mailbox Monday 11/4/13.

• November Kindle Fire HDX Giveaway. Ends 11/30.

• JAGGED Launch Day Blitz Giveaway. Ends 11/11.

• I'LL BE HOME FOR CHRISTMAS Launch Day Blitz Giveaway. Ends 11/11
  

• Book Review: I'll be Home For Christmas by Jessica Scott, Contemporary Romance; my rating 4.25.

• Book Review: Jagged by Kristen Ashley, Contemporary Romance; my rating 4.25. 

• Martha's Bookshelf***Friday Pick Giveaway November 8, 2013. Open Worldwide. Ends 11/15.

• Saturday Snapshot November 9, 2013 Remembering Madeira - 2008.

• Audible Book Review: Prime Suspects by Jim Bernheimer, Futuristic Mystery; my rating 4.25. 

• Sharing Beyond Books #125 Comment Giveaway 11/9/13. Open Worldwide. Ends 11/15.

• Sunday Words of Encouragement November 10, 2013.
  

• Book Review and Giveaway: The Last Christian by David Gregory, Christian Suspense; my rating 4.5. Two Copies; Open U.S. - Print; International - Digital. Ends 11/15.

Finished Reading:

1. eBook/Kindle

Jagged
by Kristen Ashley
This is an emotional romance.

 Giveaway and Review posts are linked above.
Click on book title for full description.

2. eBook/Kindle

Realm Walker
by Kathleen Collins
I really liked this Fantasy romance.

I'll post a review this week.
Click on book title for full description.

3. Print

The Last Christian: A Novel
by David Gregory
This is a good Christian suspense.
Review and Giveaway Post are linked above.
Click on book title for full description.

4. Audible/MP3

Iron Gray Sea: Destroyermen, Book 7
    by Taylor Anderson
    Narrated by William Dufris
        Series: Destroyermen, Book 7
I am still enjoying this series. 
I will post a review at the end of the week.
Click on book title for full description.

Line Edits/Releases:
No new releases expected for a couple of weeks.

Enter the bi-monthly drawings at eTreasures Publishing Facebook page.
This week's giveaway link: Rolltop Relic by Barbara Miller; a mystery.

Currently reading:

1. Print
 

To Have and to Hold
by Leigh Greewood
Surprisingly this is the first book by this popular author that I am reading.
I am not quite a third in and really enjoying it so far.
Book Description
Publication Date: November 5, 2013
"Greenwood's books are bound to become classics."—Rendezvous
A Stranger to the Rescue
Colby Blaine has been a longer his whole life. And he isn't about to change now. But that doesn't mean he can ignore people in trouble. When he rides up to an inexperienced wagon train under attack, he doesn't hesitate to jump into the fray. It's only after the raid that he really lands himself in hot water...

Naomi Kessling is certainly grateful to Colby for saving her family and agreeing to lead their train to safer territory. But the man has an infuriating way of knowing just how to get under her skin—he asks too may questions about a past she doesn't want to remember, and his touch makes her long for far more. Yet the more time they spend together, the more Naomi sees that perhaps it's Colby who needs rescuing the most...

"Greenwood never disappoints. Continuous action, sharp intrigue, and well-rounded characters captivate."—RT Book Reviews.

2. eBook/Kindle

Waning Moon (The Chronicles of Lily Carmichael trilogy)
PJ Sharon
I received a download for this book from the author at EPICon 2013.
I have just started and am looking forward to getting engaged in the story.
Book Description
Publication Date: September 25, 2012
In the year 2057, in a post-apocalyptic world where a polar shift threatens the survivors of a widespread pandemic with extinction, sixteen-year-old genetically enhanced Lily Carmichael has more immediate problems. Her uncle is dying of cancer and her healing abilities are ineffective against the blood ties that bind them. In order to find a cure, Lily must leave the protection of her quiet town and journey to the trading city of Albany, all while avoiding the Industry, an agency that would like nothing better than to study and exploit her abilities.

Seventeen-year-old Will Callahan has been searching for his father since severe storms blasted through the Midwest, killing his mother and sister. When he learns that his father may be in the city, he catches a ride with Lily, a girl who has come to his rescue more than once. As the two embark on a dangerous journey, the tension between them grows. But the secrets Will’s keeping could put Lily in far more danger than traveling to the city with him, and if he was any kind of man, he would have told her to run the minute she found him.

3. Audio

Five Million Dollar Cat: A Novella
    UNABRIDGED
    by Laura Lond
    Narrated by Tavia Gilbert
I will start this audio tonight.
I received this for review
through Audiobook Jukebox.
Publisher's Summary
When Amy's sleazy ex reemerges, she is wary, for two good reasons. One, she is still paying off the debts Jack had gotten her in. Two, his scheme, as usual, smacks of fraud. Jack, however, insists that everything is perfectly legal, safe, and easy, especially Amy's part. All she needs to do to earn her share, which would be a quarter million dollars, is - adopt a cat.
©2012 Laura Lond (P)2012 Laura Lond

4. eBook/Kindle

Sanctuary 
by Pauline Creeden
This looks good. I have this for 
BookBlast Tour Review on November 19.
Book Description
Publication Date: September 27, 2013
In a heart-racing thriller described as Falling Skies meets The Walking Dead,
Jennie struggles to find a safe place for what’s left of her family. But it seems as though there is no place sacred, no place secure. First the aliens attacked the sun, making it dimmer, weaker, and half what it used to be. Then they attacked the water supply, killing one-third of Earth’s population with a bitter contaminate. And when they unleash a new terror on humankind, the victims will wish for death, but will not find it…

When the world shatters to pieces around her, will Jennie find the strength she needs to keep going?

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 will still be working on poetry formatting this week.

I want to keep enjoying adding stories from my own TBR. :-)
I'm still reading for reviews to post the following week which is working ok. I have four done for November with four to review. That leaves 6 titles set for November to read and review.

November Scheduled

11/19 BookBlast Tour Review: Sanctuary by Pauline Creeden
11/20 Review and Giveaway: I Accidentally Marred a Vampire

Sourcebooks:
   Don’t Want to Miss a Thing by Jill Mansell (Print)
   To Have and to Hold by Leigh Greenwood (Print) (reading)

NetGalley:
   ---

Authors:
   Unfinished Business by Carolyn R. Aspenson

AudioBook Jukebox 
   Five Million Dollar Cat: A Novella by Laura Lond (listening this week)

From TBR Collection - TBD
Won Book - TBD
Free Kindle/Nook or Smashwords: TBD

Book Review and Giveaway: The Last Christian by David Gregory

This is a good thriller with a strong faith message.

The Last Christian: A Novel
by David Gregory

• Paperback: 416 pages
• Publisher: WaterBrook Press; 1 edition (May 4, 2010)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 1400074975
• ASIN: B006J3W9UG

Genre: Christian Suspense
My Rating: 4.5 of 5.0

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.

Review:
Abby has lived her thirty-four years with the Papua New Guinea village tribe her parents came to as missionaries. When her village suffers a strange decease she struggles through jungle and rivers to seek aid but returns with a doctor to discover everyone is dead. Abby receives a 16 year old message from her Christian grandparents telling her that she is to bring the Christian message to America, a country where Christianity died many years before.

Abby has never been on an airplane, ridden in a car or experienced normal house facilities. It is a major cultural shock to deal with the surroundings but it is even more difficult to face a society (in 2088) where the majority of people live their lives -school, work, recreation and even experience sex- in VR, virtual reality.

Abby is not particularly welcomed by her Aunt Lauren who is a politician in the active weeks of campaigning. Lauren sees Abby as an embarrassment but at least her partner, Sabin, is nice and tries to help Abby. Abby is interviewed on a global media program but feels that her message -- that Jesus is the only way to eternal life -- falls flat. This message is particularly difficult considering that Bryson Nichols, a technological genius who is funding Lauren’s campaign, has just announced that he has reached eternal life by transferring his brain system into a technology based brain.

Abby’s isolated upbringing captures the attention of Creighton who is the one to share this story. Creighton is a history professor who is fascinated by Abby’s strength, determination and commitment to her faith. Creighton and Abby discover a warning message from her grandfather, Ray. Abby doesn’t understand how her Christian grandfather, a brilliant neuroscientist, could have partnered with Nichols. Bit by bit Creighton and Abby uncover clues that someone killed the villagers and that someone is trying to kill Abby. Could Abby’s message threaten someone so much that they would kill to keep her quiet?

The characters are well developed and represent different perspectives from evil to good. The author presents an interesting history and message of Christianity through a story of ruthless manipulations and mystery. Creighton’s college lecture discusses causes for the demise of Christianity while there is argumentative discourse as Abby presents and defends her faith. Abby also discovers a greater message with the help of Creighton and her grandfather.

The ladies’ book club members agreed that this was a good story. One member, who spent years overseas, questioned the extent of Abby’s education learned while in the jungle. However she agreed that the cultural shock returning to a country like America would be extremely difficult. We all liked the message the story conveys. The story raised a good discussion too of faith as more than head knowledge but also more than feelings. If you enjoy mystery and a good faith message I recommend you try this thriller.

We enjoyed this as our Ladies' Book Club selection for November.
This fit in with my church messages this morning which I have sumarized in my Sunday Words post today.

ENTER THIS GIVEAWAY for TWO book copies - Print for U.S. or digital for International.

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 U.S. for print or International for digital ebook.
* This contest will close 10 PM (Central) on November 15, 2013.
The winner will be randomly selected from all entries.
WINNERS WILL BE ANNOUNCED after November 15, 2013.
Winners will have 72 hours to respond by email or the winners form linked in the announcement.