Book Review: Blind Man's Bluff (Stone Gap Mountain) by Kay Stockham

This engaging story of blindness is more than just a romance.
Blind Man's Bluff (Stone Gap Mountain)
by Kay Stockham

• File Size: 705 KB
• Print Length: 357 pages
• Publisher: Kindred Spirits Publishing (September 21, 2012)
• ASIN: B009F73G2S

Genre: Contemporary Romance
My Rating: 4.5 of 5.0

Book Description
Publication Date: September 21, 2012
Can you love someone and still be free?
Emma Wyatt agrees to tutor a recently blinded, embittered soldier because of the $50,000 paycheck his brother offers. Blind herself, Emma dreams of independence and freedom. She wants to own a large kennel and live away from her overprotective family. But when she's attracted to her student, she fears falling for him means giving up her dreams.

Can you protect someone when you cannot see?
Good soldiers show no weakness. Ian MacGregor holds his battle with claustrophobia close to his chest, unsuccessfully trying to cope on his own. He’s lost in the dark and struggling to accept his fate. Ian knows duty, honor, serving his country. But his desire for Emma is overshadowed by the danger lurking around them. Emma would be better off with someone else. Someone sighted.
Someone able to protect her from the person determined to keep them apart.

BLIND MAN'S BLUFF is the first full-length novel in the Stone Gap Mountain Series. Be sure to check out SECRETS OF A SUMMER NIGHT, a Stone Gap Mountain Novella, for the first look at this exciting new contemporary series.

Review:
Ian MacGregor was a soldier dedicated to protection. When he loses his sight during a rescue he becomes bitter and tries to drown himself in booze. His brother, Duncan, who owns a successful security firm, and several of Ian’s friends are trying to help Ian come to terms with his disability.

Emma was blinded at age fourteen. After a few months struggling in rehabilitation Emma took charge of her life and learned to be the best blind person she could be. Fourteen years later she is living successfully, working as a bartender in her father’s bar, while kenneling and caring for a handful of dogs. She is trying to save money to set up a dog kennel and become independent, which is her dream.

Duncan asks Emma’s uncle, a psychiatrist, and close family friend, to talk to Ian. The doctor recommends that Duncan hire Emma to help Ian. Initially reluctant, Duncan changes his mind after watching Emma in action and realizing that she has experienced all that Ian has to face and learn.

Emma takes the job even though Ian tries to scare her off with sexual advances. Emma and her dogs move onto Ian’s property after a fire destroys her home. This puts them in continual proximity that feeds the attraction between them. Ian isn’t ready for help and Emma has to take a strong stand, telling the other men in the house to stop waiting on and enabling Ian. Emma challenges Ian and finds creative ways to show him he can relearn activities as a blind person. She also finds a way to help him face his private nightmare of claustrophobia.

As Ian begins to gain confidence there are unexplained disruptions in Emma’s routines. Duncan and Ian begin to suspect a young man whom Emma has agreed to help. The men seek to protect Emma as they try to locate the teen when he goes missing.

I enjoyed the strong pacing of the story, the well developed characters, the underlying suspense and the plot surprises. Focusing on the difficulties of coping with blindness is an interesting plot bonus and dogs always add a bit of interest.  There is good conflict and tension between these strong characters as they face fears and insecurities. I liked that the there is plenty of action and story to enjoy in addition to the solid romance. I recommend this to readers who enjoy a romance presented in a strong, engaging story. I would enjoy reading more books in this series and by this author.

I received this book for review through StoryBundle.

Mailbox Monday May 19, 2014

Welcome to Mailbox Monday.
Mailbox Monday is a gathering place for readers to share the books that came into their house last week and explore great book blogs.  This Meme started with Marcia at A Girl and Her Books (fka The Printed Page) and after a tour of hosts has returned to its permanent home at Mailbox Monday.
Thanks to the ladies sharing hosting duties: Leslie of Under My Apple Tree, Serena of Savvy Verse & Wit and Vicki of I'd Rather Be at the Beach.
Warning: Mailbox Monday can lead to envy, toppling TBR piles and humongous wish lists.

I resisted selecting any new review books this week.
I picked up two free audios and many free ebooks.

(I still have many author requests to consider and reply to.)

Are your mailbox and TBR piles blooming?

Review Titles

None

Won

None

Purchased

None

Free

I downloaded the first set of SYNC YA Audios-


WARP: The Reluctant Assassin by Eoin Colfer


The Time Machine by H.G. Wells


Plus I downloaded another 66 or so free Kindle titles. Titles found linked through Bookbub, Bookfun, Ereader News Today,  Free Par-tay, Inspired Reads, Pixel of Ink or Kindle ebooks.

It's Monday What are You Reading? May 19, 2014

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.

We had another nice week with our son, daughter-in-law and little "Sweet-Pea". 
Work was a little better but I still need to switch out computers soon.
I enjoyed my reading, finishing two ebooks and close to finishing an audio. I posted two reviews and the usual memes. :-)

I visited a little early in the week but didn't get back later.
Thanks as always to all the nice people who visit me.

These were last week's posts:

• It's Monday What are You Reading? May 12, 2014.

• Mailbox Monday May 12, 2014.

• Book Review: Raptor 6 (The Quiet Professionals) by Ronie Kendig; Military Romance, Christian Fiction; my rating 4.75.

• Martha's Bookshelf***Friday Pick Giveaway May 16, 2014.  Open Worldwide. Ends 5/22/14.

• Audio Book Review: Shadow Killer, a Charlie D. Mystery, by Gail Bowen; Mystery; my rating 4.25.

• Sharing Beyond Books #151 Comment Giveaway 5/17/14; Open Worldwide. Ends 5/24/14.

• Sunday Words of Encouragement May 18, 2014.

Finished Reading:

1. eBook/Kindle

Blind Man's Bluff (Stone Gap Mountain)
by Kay Stockham
I really enjoyed these characters and the story.
I received this through StoryBundle.
Click on book title for full description.

2. eBook/Kindle

Thunder Mountain
by Dean Wesley Smith
This was a surprising, easy time travel.
Offered a free trip into a remote Idaho wilderness that she loves and studies, Professor Dawn Edwards can’t refuse. On the trip she meets Professor Madison Rogers, and they fall for each other before they even reach their destination.

But living in the Old West proves to be a brutal task. Somehow, Dawn must survive to rescue herself, her friends, and the man she loves.

A science fiction novel of the old west and true love.

eTreasures Publishing New Release:
No new releases this week.
Enter the bi-monthly drawings at eTreasures Publishing Facebook page.
Current giveaway link:  Prairie Lily by Georgina Sellwood
Check for the new giveaway every two weeks.

Currently reading:

1. Audible/MP3

Tricked: The Iron Druid Chronicles, Book 4
Written by: Kevin Hearne
Narrated by: Luke Daniels
I am 80% in so I expect to finish this fun listen this week.
Click on book title for full description.

2. Print

The Windflower
by Laura London
I have moved along to 260 pages in this and now I am interested in where it goes from here.
Click on book title for full description.

3. eBook/Kindle

The Escape (Survivor's Club)
by Mary Balogh
I have started this and like the characters.
Book Description
Publication Date: July 1, 2014
In this poignant novel of longing and salvation, a hopeful widow and a resilient war hero discover the promise of love’s magic and new beginnings.
After surviving the Napoleonic Wars, Sir Benedict Harper is struggling to move on, his body and spirit in need of a healing touch. Never does Ben imagine that hope will come in the form of a beautiful woman who has seen her own share of suffering. After the lingering death of her husband, Samantha McKay is at the mercy of her oppressive in-laws—until she plots an escape to distant Wales to claim a house she has inherited. Being a gentleman, Ben insists that he escort her on the fateful journey.
Ben wants Samantha as much as she wants him, but he is cautious. What can a wounded soul offer any woman? Samantha is ready to go where fate takes her, to leave behind polite society and even propriety in her desire for this handsome, honorable soldier. But dare she offer her bruised heart as well as her body? The answers to both their questions may be found in an unlikely place: in each other’s arms.

4. Audio

Erian's Lair #2
by Troy Lee Henderson
I enjoyed the first book and look forward to listening to this.
Simon Hill has been away studying for the past two years. When his parents die suddenly, he returns home to find that he and his two young brothers, Darien and Edwin, have been evicted from their farm. Simon convinces his brothers to join him in an effort to find Erian, the daughter of Eathed, an old dragon who once befriended Simon. The three brothers enlist the aid of Deandra leBec, a dragon hunter whose father was killed by a dragon and setoff to find Erian. [A Novella] -–Book 2 of The Hill Brothers Trilogy.

I expect I will get to another book but I haven't decided if it will be another eBook from StoryBundle or NetGalley or one of my Audio review books.

I am still up to date on my daily Bible reading. I have disciplined myself each morning to read my Bible passage before I pick up print, Kindle or mp3. I am really enjoying the reading.

Line Edits: We are now finalizing formatting for two ebook re-releases, as well as working on two non-fiction releases and a print release.

This month I have more review books than from my own TBR. :-) 
I completed two reviews and have two - so far- pending for this coming week.  

May Scheduled -
Nothing specificallly scheduled

NetGalley: I did pick up some more titles for April. 
The Escape (Survivor's Club) by Mary Balogh (reading)

Authors
From Story Bundle - check out the deal available 4/30 to 5/21
Where Dreams Are Born by M. L. Buchman
Simply Irresistible by Kristine Grayson
Huntress For Hire by Terry Spear
Peter's Christmas by M. L. Buchman
The Death of Davy Moss by Kristine Kathryn Rusch
Shades of Moonlight by Karen L. McKee

Still many requests to field and reply to.

AudioBook Jukebox (I will be making more requests.)
   Erian's Lair by Troy Lee Henderson

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

Sunday Words of Encouragement May 18, 2014

This morning we celebrated graduation of our high schoolers. It is remarkable that many of them already have a year of college from dual enrollment and one had received her associates degree (two years) before completing high school. I would have loved that in high school and it is a shame that they are making the dual enrollment program more difficult by putting the cost burden on the school districts.

I enjoyed our pastor’s brief comments based on Paul’s encouragement to Timothy, a young follower.

2 Timothy 3:14-15 (NIV)
14 But as for you, continue in what you have learned and have become convinced of, because you know those from whom you learned it, 15 and how from infancy you have known the Holy Scriptures, which are able to make you wise for salvation through faith in Christ Jesus.

He further encouraged the graduates to use all they have learned through life after first seeking the Lord. Matthew 6:33. Continue to stay connected to God because when we know more of God, then we know better how to live our lives. Psalm 1:2-3. Then he urged them to continue to surround themselves with Godly people who encourage growth and living for God’s glory; and to work and serve with grace. He noted Mr. Walgreen’s commitment to a Godly life and exhorted them to live as above average Christians.

This is a nice version of Seek Ye First

Verse for Today
Matthew 6:33 (KJV)
33 But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you.

Lord help me to take this message to heart each day: first seeking You, then serving You by sharing your love with others and living as an above average Christian.

Sharing Beyond Books #151 Comment Giveaway May 17, 2014

Hello again on Saturday night and Welcome to Sharing Beyond Books, SBB!
Yikes - it's Saturday and I've had a long day. Almost didn't get to this.
Thanks to everyone who commented last week.

Eight out of 12 people acknowledge that they sometimes change their mind about a book based on reviews. Most could not remember a specific book. Alyn chose Cruel Beauty based on reviews but hasn't read it yet. nrlymrtl has selected retellings of classics based on reviews. Four commenters have never changed their mind due to a review.  

~~~~

The Winner from SBB #150 comments is: #3 nrlymrtl 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 #151 (One Question.)

Q1. Miki asks: Could you choose your house depending or the existence or room for bookshelves, a library??

A:  This is a 'sweet' question. My answer is "yes'. At least two of the homes we have bought had built in book shelves.

These are nice built in shelves and I love the idea of a secret room too! 

Image found at Decoist.

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 still have a supply of questions but from the same people so hopefully others will send more in -- even if they are duplicates I'll weed through or try to modify to use. 

Your turn to share:

Q1. Miki asks: Could you choose your house depending or the existence or room for bookshelves, a library??

SBB Comment Winners can choose a selection from the Valentine and "Love" books, the Christmas Giveaway Books (this is the new link), or the June 2013 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 through Saturday May 24, 2014 at 5 PM  central.

Audio Review: Shadow Killer, A Charlie D. Mystery, by Gail Bowen

Relationship issues wrapped up in a bit of a mystery.

"Shadow Killer," A Charlie D. Mystery
by Gail Bowen
(Rapid Reads) Post Hypnotic Press

Narrator:  Daniel Maté
Audio Book Length:  1 Hr 21 Min
# of Audio CD's:  2
# of MP3 CD's:  1
Download ISBN:  978-1-927401-89-7
Genre: Mystery
My Rating: 4.25 of 5.0

"Packs a lot of action into a mere 87 pages. The Rapid Reads line of books is perfect for the adult on the go who desires an intriguing read that can be devoured in one setting - amazon.com"

It's Father's Day weekend--a tough time for Charlie D, host of a late-night radio call-in show that offers supportive advice to troubled listeners. For years Charlie has been alienated from his father--a retired politician who was always too busy for his son when Charlie was growing up. The trouble is, his dad has chosen this weekend to attempt to reconcile with his son. Charlie is not keen to forgive. But Charlie's personal issues suddenly seem mundane when an email arrives from a young listener that outlines his very specific plans to kill not just his father but his entire family. The deeply troubled boy could be anywhere, and Charlie has just two hours to discover his identity and stop him from murder.

Review:
Once again the story introduces Charlie and his call in radio show to newcomers. It’s Father’s Day and Charlie is ready to listen to his fans who call in to share their woes. Not everyone has fond memories of their childhood relationship with their fathers, including Charlie. Charlie’s dad was a busy politician who was disappointed by a son whose face was marred by a large birthmark. Charlie understands being estranged from one’s father and isn’t really interested in responding when his father calls and asks to get together.

Charlie arrives at work to have his producer advise him that a young listener has sent in an email indicating his plans to kill his father, the rest of his family and the rest of his family. Charlie now has to focus his talents on drawing the boy out to call in so they can hopefully talk him out of his plans or at least try to identify him. Charlie is initially at a loss but Nova has helped with father-relationship quotes to open up the show.

Charlie’s boss calls in raging over his elderly, wealthy father who is about to marry a sexy woman young enough to be his granddaughter. Charlie tries to encourage the man to be happy for his father but gets fired instead.

Charlie is still trying to get the ‘shadow killer’ to call in when Charlie’s own father calls. He thinks he can share insight to the frustrations of the young boy.

This episode is rather poignant as it deals with father-son relationships. There is still a little bit of mystery and Charlie is his ever engaging character. I enjoy these quick listens.

Audio Notes: Daniel Maté continues to narrate this series with easy distinction. I enjoy the fun, quick story.

I received this audio from Post Hypnotic Press for an honest review.

Martha's Bookshelf***Friday Pick Giveaway May 16, 2014

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

I am sorry if the email subscription for my blog still isn't working properly. I subscribed myself and it is working okay but I don't know if my adjustments fixed the problem for others. I am still coping with computer glitches at work and may pick up a new desktop tomorrow to transfer files. It was a busy week at work with lots of court hearings to cover.


More details at My Cancer Journey.

[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 May 9 Pick. There were no 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 was one title blocked with multiple picks, and finally won.

CONGRATULATIONS
to Random.org picked Winners from May 2 Pick:
Janhvi gets a GC

Di gets When the Duke Returns (won through the block)

All winners please fill in the Winner's Acceptance Form or email me to confirm your win, send your snail mail address information and let me know if you would like bookmarks - sensual, sexy or sweet bookmarks. {The form is new because Google changed their forms and the old one wasn't letting me print out the responses.}

This bouquet of flowers and books caught my eye.

Isn't it lovely?!

Image found at First Come Flowers.

New Book Group #47 April 25, 2014

PAIRS:
Catherine Palmer: Prairie Rose and A Whisper of Danger
Stephanie Laurens: A Lady of His Own (spine creases) and Impetuous Innocent
SINGLES:
Hawken's Heart by Suzanne Brockman
The Mystery Man of Whitehorse by B.J. Daniels
Trey's Secret by Lois Faye Dayer
Midnight Reign by Chris Marie Green
Illegal Possession by Kay Hooper
When the Duke Returns by Eloisa James
Once Upon a Moon by Julie Kistler
The MacGregor Grooms by Nora Roberts
Sirius About Murder by Sue Owens Wright
The Secret Life of Bees by Sue Monk Kidd
The Hidden Truth of Cytech's Randall Forty byVickie Kennedy
The Stepmother by Carrie Adams (hardback) 


New Book Group #46 March 15, 2014

PAIRS:
   Virginia Henley - Notorious and Insatiable
   Debbie Macomber - Navy Woman and This Matter of Marriage
SINGLES:
The Diamonds of Wellbourne Manor Anthology by Diane Gaston plus
Heart of Darkness Anthology by Gena Showalter plus
Unbound Anthology by Kim Harrison plus
Sweet Talking Man by Betina Krain
Penhollow by Georgette Heyer
Dangerous Passions by Kat Martin
The Last Heiress by Bertrice Small (spine creases)
If She Only Knew by Lisa Jackson (spine creases)
Liar's Market by Taylor Smith
The Horseman's Secret by Jeannie Watt
Lakeside Cottage by Susan Wiggs
Strong Arms of the Law by Vicki Kennedy


New Book Group #45 January 31, 2014

PAIRS:
   Deborah Cooke: Winter Kiss and Kiss of Fate
   Fern Michaels:  Hey Good Looking and Charming Lily
SINGLES:
Swimming Without a Net by Mary Jane Davidson
Exit Strategies by Catherine Todd
Provocative in Pearls by Madeline Hunter
The Reckoning by Beverly Lewis
Out of Darkness by Lynn Erickson
Lord Braybrook's Penniless Bride by Elizabeth Rolls
Contract Dad by Helen Shelton
Sandhill Dreams by Cara Putman
Hearts Are Wild by Laura Wright
Dare Me Anthology, Cherry Adair, Jill Shalvis and Julie Elizabeth Leto
All I Ever Wanted by Kristan Higgins
A Writer's Dream & A Cowboy's Heart by Vickie Kennedy


New Book Group #44 December 14, 2013

PAIRS: gone
SINGLES:
Renegade Heart by Madeline Baker
Every Whispered Word by Karyn Monk
Tides of Passion by Tracy Sumner

New Book Group! #43 November 1, 2013 ---(All gone)

Pairs gone
SINGLES:
Father for Keeps by Ana Seymour 
Crimson Rain by Meg O’Brien

New Book Group #42 September 27, 2013 ---(All gone)

Singles:
Silver Feather by Cassie Edwards (pictured and in box but missed the listing.)
Something Extra by Janet Dailey

New Book Group #41 August 2, 2013

Singles:
The Nightingale's Song by Jo-Ann Power
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 (link is for mass media version)

New Book Group #39 May 31, 2013 - Plenty of "summer" titles!
Singles:
Shetland Summer by Janet Lynnford

New Book Group #38 April 20, 2013
Awaken the Senses by Nalini Singh

New Book Group #37 March 22, 2013
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.

New Book Group #36 February 15, 2013

The Trailsman: Texas Lead Slingers by Jon Sharpe

New Book Group #35 January 11, 2013 (All gone)

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

New Book Group #33 October 27, 2012---(All gone)

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
An Honorable Man by Rosemary Rogers (spine creases)

New Book Group #30 July 27, 2012
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

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
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 four years I have posted 43 groups of 16 (688) books to find new homes! (as of November 2013).

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 657+ 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 

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---(All gone)
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

Pick #8
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: Raptor 6 (The Quiet Professionals) by Ronie Kendig

Great read - this is a wonderful story with good action and intrigue, strong characters and a clean romance.
Raptor 6 (The Quiet Professionals)
by Ronie Kendig

• File Size: 986 KB
• Print Length: 354 pages
• Page Numbers Source ISBN: 1616260408
• Publisher: Shiloh Run Press (May 1, 2014)
• ASIN: B00HX7CTDO

Genre: Military Romance, Christian Fiction
My Rating: 4.75 of 5.0

Book Description
Publication Date: May 1, 2014
Captain Dean Watters keeps his mission and his team in the forefront of his laser-like focus. So when Dean’s mission and team are threatened, his Special Forces training kicks into high gear. Failing to stop hackers from stealing national security secrets from the military’s secure computers and networks isn’t an option. Zahrah Zarrick is a missionary teacher to Afghan children in Mazar-e Sharif. And a target. When Zahrah is captured because of her expertise in quantum cryptology, compromising the US military, Dean is forced to crack the lockbox around his heart—a move that might come at the highest cost.

Review:
Dean Watters is a special forces Captain who is focused, dedicated and ‘married’ to his Raptor team. They are stationed in Afghan where they try to help the local people when able and address military issues when needed. His team is quick to move in when they see smoke down the road. They arrive to discover that a missionary school has been attacked by terrorists. Dean meets Zahrah Zarrick, a beautiful American who is a missionary teacher to the children.

Zahrah’s father is a well known General who would prefer she be safe in America. But Zahrah feels compelled to teach the children, particularly the girls, of her mother’s home country so they will not be restricted as her mother was. Although teaching is Zahrah’s vocation, her studied expertise from college is in quantum cryptology or data encoding in computers. This makes Zahrah a target for cyber terrorists who want her skills to hack into a stolen military computer to gain national security secrets.

Dean becomes Zahrah’s protector, unofficially appointed by her father, and by his own nature. Dean tries to convince Zahrah to return to America but Zahrah knows her true protector is God.  She believes He has a plan that involves her staying where she is. Will Zahrah’s faith sustain her when she is kidnapped, tortured and threatened to use her skills? Can Dean go in to rescue Zahrah knowing he will face his worst fears of being tortured and watching an innocent woman be tortured, as he did ten years before?

Somewhere in the mountains there is a man who has hacked into the military base and is watching every move Raptor team makes. Dean is frustrated as it becomes clear that someone knows their plans and is always one step ahead of the team. This created tension and interest but I was frustrated that it took quite some time to even realize there was a ‘mole’. This enemy remains an unknown even at the end of the book.

I really enjoyed the fast paced action of the story and the camaraderie of the team members. I appreciated that there was no foul language and I loved the strong faith portrayed in Zahrah. The torture scenes are realistically harsh. I recommend this to readers who love action, danger and a clean romance of integrity and spirit with no need for overt sex. I look forward to reading more from this author.

I received this title through NetGalley.

Mailbox Monday May 12, 2014

Welcome to Mailbox Monday.
Mailbox Monday is a gathering place for readers to share the books that came into their house last week and explore great book blogs.  This Meme started with Marcia at A Girl and Her Books (fka The Printed Page) and after a tour of hosts has returned to its permanent home at Mailbox Monday.
Thanks to the ladies sharing hosting duties: Leslie of Under My Apple Tree, Serena of Savvy Verse & Wit and Vicki of I'd Rather Be at the Beach.
Warning: Mailbox Monday can lead to envy, toppling TBR piles and humongous wish lists.

I resisted selecting any new review books this week.
However I did purchase three audiobooks 

(I still have many author requests to consider and reply to.)

Are your mailbox and TBR piles blooming?

Review Titles

None

Won

None

Purchased

I received a credit of $10.00 from April audio purchases so I purchased two books and I selected my second April subscription choice - total cost $3.90.

Earth Abides: The 60th Anniversary Edition

by George R. Stewart

$6.95 -- Noted as a Sci Fi Classic. One survivor of a worldwide epidemic.

The Remaining: Refugees

by D. J. Molles

$6.95 -- Book 3 in a series so I'll have to hold this 'till I pick up books 1 and 2.
A decease has caused 90% of humans to become mindless, killing predators.

Deadly Shores: Destroyermen, Book 9

by Taylor Anderson

Subscription pick - I've been waiting for the latest in this alternate world series.

 Free

Plus I downloaded another 58 or so free Kindle titles. Titles found linked through Bookbub, Bookfun, Ereader News Today,  Free Par-tay, Inspired Reads, Pixel of Ink or Kindle ebooks.

It's Monday! What Are You Reading? May 12, 2014

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.

We are having a good visit with our son, daughter-in-law and little "Sweet-Pea". 
Work has been frustrating as my computers are experiencing problems that I hope to get sorted out this week.
I enjoyed my reading, finishing three books. I posted three reviews and posted the usual memes. :-)

I'm sorry I didn't get any visiting done this week. I will try this week to find/make some time to visit even with relatives in town.
Thanks as always to all the nice people who visit me.

These were last week's posts:

• It's Monday What are You Reading? May 5, 2014.

• Mailbox Monday May 5, 2014.

• Audible Book Review: Monster Hunter Vendetta by Larry Correia; Paranormal, Action; my rating 4.5.

• Book Review: Sonata for a Scoundrel by Anthea Lawson; Historical Romance; my rating 4.5. 

• Martha's Bookshelf***Friday Pick Giveaway May 9, 2014.  Open Worldwide. Ends 5/15/14.

• Audio Book Review: Harmless by Ernie Lindsey; Mystery; my rating 4.0. 

• Sharing Beyond Books #150 Comment Giveaway 5/10/14; Open Worldwide. Ends 5/17/14.

• Sunday Words of Encouragement May 11, 2014.

Finished Reading:
1. Audible/Audio/MP3

Harmless
Written by: Ernie Lindsey
Narrated by: DJ Holte
I enjoyed this mystery in spite of the difficult character.
Review linked above.
Click on book title for full description.

2. eBook/Kindle

Raptor 6 (The Quiet Professionals)
by Ronie Kendig
I really liked this clean action story!
I will post a review this week.
Click on book title for full description.

3. Audio/MP3

Audio Book: Gail Bowen, "Shadow Killer," A Charlie D. Mystery (Rapid Reads) Post Hypnotic Press Books
This are such easy, quick mystery listens. I will post the review this week.
Click on book title for full description.

eTreasures Publishing New Release:
No new releases this week.
Enter the bi-monthly drawings at eTreasures Publishing Facebook page.
Current giveaway link:  Flick, Flick and Dreamer by Margaret Karmazin
Check for the new giveaway every two weeks.

Currently reading:

1. eBook/Kindle

Blind Man's Bluff (Stone Gap Mountain)
by Kay Stockham
I am really enjoying these characters and the story.
I received this through StoryBundle.
Book Description
Publication Date: September 21, 2012
Can you love someone and still be free?
Emma Wyatt agrees to tutor a recently blinded, embittered soldier because of the $50,000 paycheck his brother offers. Blind herself, Emma dreams of independence and freedom. She wants to own a large kennel and live away from her overprotective family. But when she's attracted to her student, she fears falling for him means giving up her dreams.

Can you protect someone when you cannot see?
Good soldiers show no weakness. Ian MacGregor holds his battle with claustrophobia close to his chest, unsuccessfully trying to cope on his own. He’s lost in the dark and struggling to accept his fate. Ian knows duty, honor, serving his country. But his desire for Emma is overshadowed by the danger lurking around them. Emma would be better off with someone else. Someone sighted.
Someone able to protect her from the person determined to keep them apart.

BLIND MAN'S BLUFF is the first full-length novel in the Stone Gap Mountain Series. Be sure to check out SECRETS OF A SUMMER NIGHT, a Stone Gap Mountain Novella, for the first look at this exciting new contemporary series.

2. Print

The Windflower
by Laura London
This is moving slowly as I am only 160 pages in and enjoying some of the writing although I still don't really like the characters.
Click on book title for full description.

3. Audible/MP3

Tricked: The Iron Druid Chronicles, Book 4
Written by: Kevin Hearne
Narrated by: Luke Daniels
I picked this from my TBR to read before my next review audio.
Publisher's Summary
Druid Atticus O’Sullivan hasn’t stayed alive for more than two millennia without a fair bit of Celtic cunning. So when vengeful thunder gods come Norse by Southwest looking for payback, Atticus, with a little help from the Navajo trickster god Coyote, lets them think that they’ve chopped up his body in the Arizona desert.
But the mischievous Coyote is not above a little sleight of paw, and Atticus soon finds that he’s been duped into battling bloodthirsty desert shape-shifters called skinwalkers. Just when the Druid thinks he’s got a handle on all the duplicity, betrayal comes from an unlikely source. If Atticus survives this time, he vows he won’t be fooled again. Famous last words.
©2012 Kevin Hearne (P)2012 Random House Audio

4. I expect I will get to another book but I haven't decided if it will be another eBook from StoryBundle or NetGalley or one of my Audio review books.

I am up to date on my daily Bible reading. I have disciplined myself each morning to read my Bible passage before I pick up print, Kindle or mp3. I am really enjoying the reading.

Line Edits: We are now finalizing formatting for two ebook re-releases, as well as working on two non-fiction releases.

This month I have more review books than from my own TBR. :-) 
I completed three reviews and have two pending for this coming week.  

May Scheduled -
Nothing specificallly scheduled

NetGalley: I did pick up some more titles for April. 
The Escape (Survivor's Club) by Mary Balogh

Authors
From Story Bundle - check out the deal available 4/30 to 5/21
Thunder Mountain by Dean Wesley Smith
Where Dreams Are Born by M. L. Buchman
Blind Man's Bluff by Kay Stockham (reading)
Simply Irresistible by Kristine Grayson
Huntress For Hire by Terry Spear
Peter's Christmas by M. L. Buchman
The Death of Davy Moss by Kristine Kathryn Rusch
Shades of Moonlight by Karen L. McKee

Still many requests to field and reply to.

AudioBook Jukebox (I will be making more requests.)
   Erian's Lair by Troy Lee Henderson

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

Sunday Words of Encouragement May 11, 2014

Happy Mother's Day to all mothers everywhere.
I've had a lovely Mother's Day with family.
Our pastor's wife shared the message this morning. She asked how many of us had ended up with Prince Charming and happily-ever-after life like Cinderella. Not too many hands went up. Then she noted that Cinderella was happy before she met the Prince. Even while living with, and serving under, her wicked Step-mother she was singing happy songs while doing chores. Cinderella had an attitude of thanks in all things.

What song are you singing in your home? What mood do you set?  Do we look at life with a ‘right perspective’? Are our families our most treasured possessions, more important than material things that can come and go? We are blessed and we should recognize this even during daily troubles and trials of life. Being content boils down to being thankful. We should be glad for the blessings of each day and not waiting or looking to better things around the corner. Don't dwell in a "what if" life. We may never get to that perfect life. We may have troubles but He is with us during all.

A mother’s primary goal is to care for the growth of our children. We need to be careful of our focus: not worrying about gaining things but recognizing and being thankful for our blessings.
Sister P encouraged mothers (and fathers too) to ‘sing a new song’; to model thankfulness.

Here is song to recognize the wonderful love of mothers: A Mother's Love

Verses for today:
 Philippians 4:11-13
11 I am not saying this because I am in need, for I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances. 
12 I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want. 
13 I can do all this through him who gives me strength.


Thank you, God, for my wonderful mother who shared the love of God and Christ with her children and lived a life of grace. Please help me to share the same attributes with my children and grandchildren.

Sharing Beyond Books #150 Comment Giveaway May 10, 2014

Hello again on Saturday night and Welcome to Sharing Beyond Books, SBB!
Thanks to everyone who commented last week.

Five out of 18 people prefer shorter series, 3-5 books; one prefers a medium series of about 10. The others are all glad to have longer series as long as the author keeps up the focus and engaging storyline.  And I think Nikki is right that the In Death series is close to 40 especially if you include novellas. The Goodreads list shows #39 due out September 2014.

~~~~

The Winner from SBB #149 comments is: #11 Faith Hope & Cherrytea 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 #150 (One Question.)

Q1. Abby asks: Have you ever changed your mind about reading a book (summary/plot/cover didn’t capture your interest at first) after reading good blog reviews on that book? Which book was it??

A:  I find this an interesting question. Not only have I changed my mind based on good blog reviews but also I have agreed to review books upon a request when I might not have selected the book otherwise. One book I selected after seeing favorable blog reviews was The Fault in Our Stars by John Green.

Image found at Families Online.

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 still have a supply of questions but from the same people so hopefully others will send more in -- even if they are duplicates I'll weed through or try to modify to use. 

Your turn to share:

Q1. Abby asks: Have you ever changed your mind about reading a book (summary/plot/cover didn’t capture your interest at first) after reading good blog reviews on that book? Which book was it??

SBB Comment Winners can choose a selection from the Valentine and "Love" books, the Christmas Giveaway Books (this is the new link), or the June 2013 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 through Saturday May 17, 2014 at 5 PM  central.

Audible Book Review: Harmless by Ernie Lindsey

This is a fun mystery in spite of -and because of- the irritating protagonist.

Harmless
Written by: Ernie Lindsey
Narrated by: DJ Holte

Length: 10 hrs and 34 mins
Format: Unabridged
Release Date:11-13-13
Publisher: Ernie Lindsey
Genre: Mystery
My Rating: 4.0 of 5.0

Publisher's Summary
From the USA TODAY and Amazon best-selling author of Sara's Game,..this is Harmless, an unconventional love story, a murder mystery, and a laugh out loud, hilarious work of fiction.
There's someone for everyone...even Steve.
Steve Pendragon is an eccentric (and sometimes delusional) used car salesman in love with Kerry, the quiet, secretive girl next door - only she doesn't know it. When the would-be love of his life turns up dead, all signs point to Steve.
Once the detectives hit a dead end in their investigation and he becomes the prime suspect, Steve is left with only a reluctant police officer and a crooked private investigator to help him prove his innocence. Could a kindhearted homeless woman and a cryptic note in Kerry's diary provide the key to the mystery?
©2013 Ernie Lindsey (P)2013 Ernie Lindsey

Review:
Let me be clear - the protagonist, Steve, may not be an easy character to like but he is humorous and he grows on you. Steve, a used-car salesman, is often arrogant and majorly delusional. He tends to be whiny and a blamer, blaming his failings and problems on everyone else instead of accepting responsibility for his own bad behavior and habits. Steve rages about his estranged wife and missing his two children. He is also obsessed with the postal service, occasionally going off on a tangent about its wonders.

One night Steve is awakened and looks out just in time to hear a gun shot and see his attractive new neighbor (and secret love interest) Kerry thrown from her bedroom window. Steve runs next door hoping to trap the killer but is knocked out instead. When he awakens he decides to investigate for clues and is surprised by some of the things he finds. However the most important discovery is Kerry’s diary which seems to contain a message for him.

Steve is intent on seeking revenge for Kerry and enlists the help of the local patrolman, Officer Planck, rather than turning all of the information over to the detectives. Planck also suspects something wrong with one of the investigating detectives especially after Steve’s home is broken into and newly found clues point to him as the killer.

Planck helps Steve go into hiding while a plan to prove his innocence is implemented. Steve decides the perfect place to hide out will be an abandoned post office, which he discovers is not completely abandoned.

The story, told by Steve, moves along well with plenty of humor to make-up for his sometimes pathetic character. Along the way I began to feel empathy for Steve and I liked the surprises that came up at the end. I am glad this was offered for review as I might not have picked this out on my own yet I found it to be an unusual and engaging mystery.

I received this title from the narrator for an honest review.
Audio Notes: DJ Holte does a great job conveying Steve’s irritating traits of whininess, arrogance, and ridiculousness. The delivery and pace work well with the strange presentation of the mystery by Steve.

I received this title from the narrator for an honest review.