Mailbox Monday July 7, 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 have received four review books, one email and three audios. I purchased 3 Kindle books and I picked up a free ebook, two free SYNC audios and many free kindle downloads.

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

Are your mailbox and TBR piles blooming?

Review Titles

I received this title from the author for review as part of July-August Bookblast and Tour. 
My Review date: August 6th.

Son of War, Daughter of Chaos

by Janette Rallison

Three titles from Aubiobook Jukebox


Title: The Divine Inspiration of the Bible
Author: Arthur W. Pink
Narrator: Ralph Cosham
Publisher/Date: Blackstone Audio, 05/06/14
Inspirational foundations.

Title: Lightning Fall
Author: Bill Quick
Narrator: Johnny Heller
Publisher/Date: Blackstone Audio, 04/29/14
Sci Fi - post apocalyptic.

Title: Of Neptune: Syrena Legacy, Book 3
Author: Anna Banks
Narrator: Rebecca Gibel
Publisher/Date: Blackstone Audio, 05/13/14
Third in this fantasy series.

Won

None

Purchased

Three .99 cent titles:
The Listener

Christina Dodd

Kindle Edition

Sold by Macmillan
Mystery and intrigue.

Train Station Bride

Holly Bush

Kindle Edition

Sold by Amazon Digital Services, Inc.
Historical Mail Order Bride.

A Light In the Window

Julie Lessman

Kindle Edition

Sold by Amazon Digital Services, Inc

Christian Romance.

Free

Spell Check 
by Julie Wright
Fantasy






I got this week's duo from SYNC YA for "New Stories from Favorite Characters":
These both look like they will be fun listens!

Torn From Troy
by Patrick Bowman
A re-creation of Homer's classic Odyssey as a young adult novel, we see the aftermath of the Trojan War through the eyes of Alexi, a fifteen-year-old Trojan boy.

Peter and the Starcatchers
by Dave Barry & Ridley Pearson

A story that precedes J.M. Barrie's beloved Peter Pan. In a evocative and fast-paced adventure on the high seas and on a faraway island, an orphan boy named Peter and his mysterious new friend, Molly, overcome bands of pirates and thieves in their quest to keep a fantastical secret safe and save the world from evil.


Plus I downloaded another 60 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? July 7, 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.

Work week was busy - I was glad for the Friday holiday. 
Saturday the kids and friends were over for fun in the pool and dinner. We had a good time but I was beat by the time they left.
My regular laptop is still in the shop and I have had difficulties with the word programs, even openoffice, on this travel computer.

Reading was good though slow.  I finished two books but am well into two others. I finally posted three reviews at the end of the week. I posted an Audio and  a print giveaway.  I also posted the usual memes. :-)

I didn't get to visit much this past week again.
Thanks as always to all the nice people who visit me.

These were last week's posts:

• It's Monday! What are You Reading? June 30, 2014.

• Mailbox Monday June 30, 2014.

• Martha's Bookshelf***Friday Pick Giveaway July 4, 2014.  Open Worldwide. Ends 7/10/14.

• A Featured Freebie (July 4 and 5, 2014) Spell Check by Julie Wright.

• July Kindle Fire Giveaway. Ends 7/31/14.

• Audio Book Review: Edge of Tomorrow by Hiroshi Sakurazaka; Sci Fi; my rating 4.25.

• Audible Book Review plus (Audio)  Giveaway: Judgment in Death by J.D. Robb; Crime Thriller, Mystery; my rating 5.  Open US; ends July 12, 2014.

• Book Review and (Print) Giveaway: Heading Home by John Robinson; Christian Fiction; my rating 4.0.  Open US; ends July 12, 2014.

• Sharing Beyond Books #158 Comment Giveaway 7/5/14; Open Worldwide. Ends 7/12/14.

• Sunday Words of Encouragement July 6, 2014.

Finished Reading:
1. Print/eBook

Falling to Pieces, Shipshewana Amish Mystery Series #1
by: Vannetta Chapman
This was a very nice gentle mystery.
Our ladies' book club meeting was postponed a week so I won't be posting the review until next weekend. .
Click on book title for full description.

2. Print

Sunshine
by Janet Spaeth
I 've had this on my TBR for a couple of years.
This was a quick, sweet read.
I will be posting a review and a giveaway for another book later this week.
Olivia has a crazy dream, and Hayden isn’t quite sure what to think of the adorable city slicker who shows up in answer to his ad to sell the now-defunct resort his family has owned for decades. Does she really think she can remodel—rebuild, really—the place by herself? And to what end? To reopen a tourist attraction in the middle of nowhere? Shouldn’t a realtor know the old adage “Location, location, location”?

But there’s more to life than surface events. And while Livvy sees the possibilities in her new property, Hayden sees them in her….

eTreasures Publishing New Release:
One print release is out but we have to link it up at the website.
Two ebooks out for galley proofs.

Currently reading:
1. Audible

Deadly Shores: Destroyermen, Book 9
Written by: Taylor Anderson
Narrated by: William Dufris
I am 3/4ths done on this. More great action and imagination. 
Click on book title for full description.

2. eBook/Kindle

Take Back the Morning
by Evan Howard
I am 65% through this.  It is not quite what I expected.
It is an interesting story presenting 
a strong Christian message.
Click on book title for full description.

3. Print

Every Time I Love You
by Heather Graham
I wanted to read an American Revolution and found this in one of my collections. Not really American Revolution but interesting so far.
Every Time I Love You is the captivating tale of a modern couple and their struggle with ill-fated past lives.

I am pretty sure that the next eBook will be Half a King by Joe Abercrombie.
There will be a new audio also but I'm not sure which yet.

I am a day ahead 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: Slight delay as we have staff changes. We are still finalizing formatting for four ebook re-releases, two fiction and two non-fiction. We are also working on another print children's release.

I still have some books carried forward. I hope to get to a few of my own TBRs this month. :-) 
I completed three reviews and have two new ones - so four due now.

June Scheduled -
Planning on an unscheduled giveaway soon.

NetGalley - May Picks to be read in June:
Half a King by Joe Abercrombie (Random House Publishing Group - Del Rey Spectra)
SEAL Team Six: Hunt the Wolf by Don Mann A SEAL Team Six Novel (Mulholland Books)

Authors
From Story Bundle -  I am enjoying the romance bundle and so glad I got these.  There is now a new Sci Fi Bundle available.
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 received three new titles. I will put them up next week.

Post Hypnotic Press
I have several more audiobooks from this publisher that I will be reviewing.

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

Sunday Words of Encouragement July 6, 2014

Our Sunday School lesson continues in Revelation but our teacher often goes on very worthwhile rabbit trails. We have been studying Revelation 18 and 19 where there are "Hallelujahs", rejoicing in Heaven, over the destruction of Babylon. Our teacher has interpreted Babylon to be not necessarily a city but a system of evil, of idolatry.  God objects to idols that provoke jealousy (an idea from All In). Idols are anything that takes our focus and devotion away from God.

We want the blessings of God but the blessings should not be just to bring us material possessions. Blessings are to flow through to share with others. Are we reservoirs or conduits? Jesus says that if someone asks for your shirt, you should give them your coat too. Matthew 5:40. We need to share what we have. Most importantly we need to ask God each day: What do You want me to do today?

Pastor's sermon on Freedom went along with the Sunday School message.  'If Jesus sets you free, you are free indeed.' John 8:36. But freedom is a choice. We have to choose everyday to be free from sin. We also should realize that freedom is never free. Someone paid for it. Our country's freedom was paid for by the sacrifice of many warriors. Our freedom from sin was paid for by the sacrifice of Jesus on the cross.

I was looking for another song but, once again, was led to this awesome song that fits.

I Give Myself Away

Galatians 5:1 (NIV)
5 It is for freedom that Christ has set us free. Stand firm, then, and do not let yourselves be burdened again by a yoke of slavery.

More and more, Lord, I feel you calling me to focus more fully on what is important in this life: obedience to Your Will.  I seek your strength to help me to have no other idols, to love my neighbor as myself; to serve by allowing you to use me. Let my freedom be found in following your example and serving while showing your love and light to others.

Sharing Beyond Books #158 Comment Giveaway July 5, 2014

Hello again on Saturday night and Welcome to Sharing Beyond Books, SBB!
We had family and friends over for swimming and dinner. I'm tired now and ready to wrap this up and get to bed. :-)

Thanks to everyone who commented last week.
Ten commenters read more female authors; four read equally male and female; and three read male more than female with one more currently reading male.  I think I will check my list more accurately someday when I get a chance.

~~~~

The Winner from SBB #157 comments is: #2 Becky 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 #158 (One Question.)

Q1. Nikki asks: Do you get Groupons (or similar coupon sites) in your country? Have you bought one before??

A: We do have Groupon here but usually the discounts are at bigger towns an hour or so away. I can't recall using any coupons although I have been tempted.

Image found at Groupon.

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. Nikki asks: Do you get Groupons (or similar coupon sites) in your country? Have you bought one before??

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 July 12, 2014 at 5 PM  central.

Book Review and Giveaway: Heading Home by John Robinson

This is a fast paced, exciting read with a timely Christian message.

Heading Home
by John Robinson

• Paperback: 304 pages
• Publisher: Sheaf House (August 2, 2010)
• ISBN-13: 978-0979748585

Genre: Christian Fiction
My Rating: 4.0 of 5.0

The Bible makes it clear no one knows the day or the hour of Christ's return. But it doesn't say we won't know the month. Or the week. When every Christian simultaneously receives a message that Christ will return sometime in the coming week, the world is thrown into stark panic. Two old friends, hardened combat veterans from the closing days of the Vietnam War, set out on a suspenseful quest to redeem that time. What they don't know is that they and their entire church have been targeted for satanic annihilation.

Review:
The beginning of this book jumps the reader into an American military camp in Vietnam in 1972. The primary protagonist, Corporal Nick Castle, a rich boy soldier, is introduced with his three team mate doorgunners: ‘farm boy’ Dooley, imposing Mr. C. T. Barnes and bitterly angry Frankie. Their commander, Colonel ‘Mad Jack’ Rugg, advises Nick that a London news reporter, Trevor Ames, has been flown in to interview the team in a last ditch effort to raise awareness and funding. Ames ends up convincing the Colonel to let him fly on one of the helicopters to make a supply drop to a MASH unit and then a quick patrol. The lives of all of these men are greatly impacted when the routine run ends up in an emergency rescue of a unit under enemy attack.

C.T. Barnes got religion during his tour of duty and shares the message with Nick while he is recovering from injuries. When they returned to the States C. T. became the security chief in Nick’s family business, Castle Industries. Thirty-eight years later Castle Industries is on the edge of a corporate take over. Nick won’t give in to the ruthless demands but he doesn’t see a way to save the company either. Yet, he prays and trusts God to handle the situation.

A few days later Nick and C. T. are in church with their families when a disembodied voice speaks out the words “This Week”. This occurs not only in their church but all over the world. Many believe this to be a message from God announcing His return. Nick and C. T. determine that they must find the three team mates from their unit, as well as their commander and even Trevor Ames, to bring them the message of salvation before it is too late. Thus begins a fast track race to locate the men and reach them with the hopes of seeing acceptance and grace worked in each life.

While Nick and C. T. are intent on their mission their families and church at home are receiving unwanted attention. There is a very evil servant of Satan who seeks to wreck havoc at Nick’s church.

This wasn’t quite what I expected but I enjoyed the quick pace of the novel and the encouraging message with miracle responses. The plot line encourages me, and hopefully other believers, to be ready to share the gospel and not wait until the final hour. The story has good intensity and emotion. The results seemed almost too easy, so not quite real. But God is certainly able to work in such a fashion and that is part of what make this an uplifting book and enjoyable reading.

This was a book I won a while back.

Giveaway:

ENTER THIS GIVEAWAY for my gently read Print 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 comment on the review, OR

visit THE AUTHOR'S WEBSITE and tell me something you like/learned there.

* This contest is open to U.S. address only for cassette audio book.
* This contest will close 5 PM (Central) July 12, 2014.
WINNER WILL BE ANNOUNCED after July 12, 2014.
Winners will have 72 hours to respond by email or the winners form linked in the announcement.

Audible Book Review plus Giveaway: Judgment in Death by J.D.Robb

This is a gripping installment in this series.
Judgment in Death
by J.D.Robb
Narrated by: Susan Ericksen

• Length: 12 hrs and 21 mins 
• • Series: In Death, Book 11
• Format: Unabridged




Release Date:05-20-08
Publisher: Brilliance Audio
Program Type: Audiobook

Publisher's Summary
In an uptown strip joint, a cop is found bludgeoned to death. The weapon's a baseball bat. The motive's a mystery. It's a case of serious overkill that pushes Eve Dallas straight into overdrive. Her investigation uncovers a private club that's more than a hot spot. Purgatory's a last chance for atonement where everyone is judged. Where your most intimate fate depends on your most intimate sins. And where one cop's hidden secrets are about to plunge innocent souls into vice-ridden damnation.
Crack another case with Eve Dallas.
©2007 J. D. Robb; (P)2007 Brilliance Audio

Review:
Eve Dallas is called in to investigate another murder in her jurisdiction. She discovers that the murder victim is a cop who was apparently working a second job as club security. Under his body Eve finds thirty silver credit chips. The club, Purgatory, is owned by Eve’s business magnate husband, Roarke.

Eve presses into the details uncovering facts that make it look like the cop was on the take, receiving monies from a criminal boss, Max Ricker. Ricker had escaped arrest recently in circumstances that looked like police information had been leaked. As Eve pushes her investigation into which cops were involved with the failed arrest she bumps into IAB (Internal Affairs Bureau) Lieutenant Webster who unofficially warns her off the case.

Ricker was once a partner with Roarke before Roarke decided Ricker was bad business as Roarke was in the process of cleaning up all his business affairs to legitimate interests. Ricker hates Roarke and isn’t beyond using Eve to get to Roarke. As the book moves along Eve has a childhood memory that reveals a surprising connection to her own past as well. Ricker’s threats against Eve set Roarke on edge and create a tension at home between Eve and Roarke.

The plot clearly involves a killer who is angry by “betrayal”in the system and seeks his own justice. Eve is her usual determined and gutsy self in doggedly pursuing the leads. The tension between Eve and Roarke creates a good emotional interest to add to the mystery. As usual the regular characters, Peabody, Dr. Mira, Mavis and more, add great personality to the story.

I listened to this audio book every chance I got as it was so engrossing. It is one of my favorite in the series so far.

Audio Notes: I love Susan Ericksen as the narrator of this series. She never fails to surprise me at the versatile voices and emotional intensity she nails with her narration. This is a great series to listen to in audio!

I purchased this through my Audible subscription and will continue the series.

Giveaway:

I happened to pick up this Audio Cassette recently with several other In Death titles at a thrift shop.
ENTER THIS GIVEAWAY for a used Audio Cassette - appears to be in good working condition.

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 comment on the review, OR

visit THE AUTHOR'S WEBSITE and tell me something you like/learned there.

* This contest is open to U.S. address only for cassette audio book.
* This contest will close 5 PM (Central) July 12, 2014.
WINNER WILL BE ANNOUNCED after July 12, 2014.
Winners will have 72 hours to respond by email or the winners form linked in the announcement.

Audio Book Review: Edge of Tomorrow by Hiroshi Sakurazaka

I liked this quick listen, Sci Fi Action.

Edge of Tomorrow
by Hiroshi Sakurazaka

• Read by Mike Martindale
• Series: All You Need Is Kill
• Audio CD
• Publisher: Simon & Schuster Audio; Unabridged edition (April 29, 2014)
• ISBN-13: 978-1442367876

Genre: Sci Fi Fantasy
My Rating: 4.25 of 5.0

When the alien Mimics invade, Keiji Kiriya is just one of many recruits shoved into a suit of battle armor called a Jacket and sent out to kill. Keiji dies on the battlefield, only to be reborn each morning to fight and die again and again. On his 158th iteration, he gets a message from a mysterious ally--the female soldier known as the Full Metal Bitch. Is she the key to Keiji's escape or his final death?
First time on CD! The original novel that inspired the sci-fi blockbuster film starring Tom Cruise!

Review:
The world is under attack by an alien army known as Mimics. Their numbers are overwhelming and, in addition to destruction in battle, they poison the waters and earth causing complete devastation to wipe out earth’s inhabitants and prepare the land for Mimic settlement.

Keiji is just a teenager with no real future when he decides to join the battle. He is one of many raw recruits who are used more as fodder while the leaders try to figure out how to slow, much less stop the invasion. Keiji thinks he is prepared for battle but something goes wrong on the unit’s very first engagement. Although they are told the battle will be peripheral it turns out they meet the enemy head on. As Keiji realizes others around him are dying he forges into the fray to strike out at the foe. Keiji kills an enemy warrior but is mortally wounded. As he is struggling with his own death, he sees the beautiful female soldier, Rita, known as the Full Metal Bitch. She has had unprecedented success in battle and is revered as a killing machine. She tries to sooth Keiji as he is dying.

The next morning Keiji awakens in his bunk and thinks that he has dreamed the previous battle and encounters. He soon learns that he has been caught in a time loop living the day before and the day of battle over and over. At first he despairs but then he decides to use the days to train himself more fully in hopes that he can ultimately save his team, if not the base and maybe the world.

I enjoyed the fast paced action and of course the “Goundhog Day” irony of learning to live through repeating days. Through the repeated days the reader/listener learns of Keiji's friendships within his unit as well as his respect for his trainers and command leaders. The views of his squadron add  interest. I especially liked the repeated two day meeting and development of friendship with Rita. There is a twist that is hinted at and revealed at the end.

There is graphic killing that is not suitable for everyone. As the back cover of the CD says: Live, Die, Repeat. The only drawback for me was the harsh, repeated foul words. When used it is repeated in succession. Fortunately it is not throughout the book so you can get to the story beyond the bad language.

Audio Notes: It was a little strange that the narrator was not a younger voice and did not attempt to use a Japanese accent to match the hero. None the less, Mike Martindale does a good job conveying the action and intensity of the story. Listening probably made it easier to get beyond the foul words and definitely made it read faster than a print copy.

I think my husband will like the movie. He doesn't read but says he will "wait for the movie."

I received this Audio Book from Simon & Schuster Audio through AudioBook Jukebox.

July Kindle Fire Giveaway 7/2 - 7/31/14

The July Kindle Fire Giveaway, hosted by I Am A Reader, is live.

Enter to win 1 of 2 great prizes both values at $229. Winner’s choice of a Kindle Fire HDX or $229 Amazon Gift Card or $229 Paypal Cash!

The first prize is available via the rafflecopter below. The 2nd is available only to bloggers who post about this giveaway. You can find info on how to enter the 2nd giveaway in the rafflecopter.

Win a Kindle Fire HDX, Amazon Gift Card or Paypal Cash ($229 value)

All New Kindle Fire HDX 7" Giveaway

The winner will have the option of receiving a 7" Kindle Fire HDX (US Only - $229 Value)

Or $229 Amazon.com Gift Card (International)

Or $229 in Paypal Cash (International)

 July Giveaway Sponsors:

I Am A Reader
Feed Your Reader
Author Claudia Burgoa
Candace's Book Blog
Melissa McClone, Author
Author Alecia Stone
Jennifer Laurens Author
Jessabella Reads
Townsend House
Kelly Walker
I Love to Read and Review Books :)
A & E Kirk, Author
Rachelle J. Christensen
Hope To Read
Kimber Leigh Writes
Author Ednah Walters
Author Inger Iversen
Goddess Girls: Athena the Proud by Joan Holub & Suzanne Williams
Grimmtastic Girls: Cinderella Stays Late by Joan Holub & Suzanne Williams (tween)
YA Author Fabio Bueno
Author Danielle Annett
Buried Under Romance
Barbara Silkstone, Second Act Cafe
A Leisure Moment : A Casual Conversation about our love for Literature
Donna Feyen - More Than A Review
C.M. Brown
Lori's Reading Corner
Book Reviews And Giveaways
Karen Ann Hopkins Amish Fiction
Kimber's Life
Author Ruchi B.
Zharmae Publishing Press
Luthando Coeur
Biscuit & Books
LOVE. WITHOUT YOU
Just Jeanae
Author - P.M. Richter
Charlotte Gerber
LeahSay's Views
Too-Clever
Author Melissa Lemon
Laurie Here - Contemporary Fiction and MORE
Author A. Wrighton
Little Green Eyed Press
Mom Loves 2 Read
Lynda Raymond
Author Elizabeth Parkinson Bellows
Author Ann Swann
Author Georgina Young-Ellis

Sign up to sponsor the next Kindle Giveaway here:

http://www.iamareader.com/category/kindle-giveaway-sign-ups

Giveaway Details

1 winner will receive their choice of an all new Kindle Fire 7" HDX (US Only - $229 value), $229 Amazon Gift Card or $229 in Paypal Cash (International).

There is a second separate giveaway for bloggers who post this giveaway on their blog. See details in the rafflecopter on how to enter to win the 2nd Kindle Fire HDX 7", $229 Amazon Gift Card or $229 in Paypal Cash.

Ends 7/31/14

Open only to those who can legally enter, receive and use an Amazon.com Gift Code or Paypal Cash. Winning Entry will be verified prior to prize being awarded. No purchase necessary. You must be 18 or older to enter or have your parent enter for you. The winner will be chosen by rafflecopter and announced here as well as emailed and will have 48 hours to respond or a new winner will be chosen. This giveaway is in no way associated with Facebook, Twitter, Rafflecopter or any other entity unless otherwise specified. The number of eligible entries received determines the odds of winning. Giveaway was organized by Kathy from I Am A Reader and sponsored by the participating authors & bloggers. VOID WHERE PROHIBITED BY LAW.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

A Featured Freebie - Two Days Only 7-4 and 7-5/14: Spell Check by Julie Wright

Featured Freebie shared by Inspired Kathy at I Am a Reader.

Spell Check by Julie Wright

A skeleton is rattling its way out of the closet marked “FAMILY SECRET! KEEP OUT!”

Allyson Peterson believes that being hanged by the Salem High Witches is the absolute worst thing that can happen. But when her powers, wrested from the trolls of ancient Sweden, manifest themselves, she realizes that a prank hanging by vindictive cheerleaders is the least of her worries.

Ally accidentally sends her parents to the jungle to fight anacondas, turns her brother into a mute, and curses the entire cheerleading team with an illness that has no cure, proving that her spells need a little checking. Her Swedish grandmother shows up to help her through the worst part of all—surviving the Troll Trials and saving the guy of her dreams from a vengeance that has festered through-out generations.

The power is in her, if she can just get the magic right.

Grab your copy on Amazon

Author Julie Wright

Julie Wright (1972-still breathing) was born in Salt Lake City, Utah. She's lived in LA, Boston, and the literal middle of nowhere (don't ask). She wrote her first book when she was fifteen. She's written sixteen novels--nine of which are traditionally published. Julie won the Whitney award for best romance in 2010 with her novel Cross My Heart. She is agented by Sara Crowe at Harvey Klinger Inc.

She has one husband, three kids, two salamanders, one dog, and a varying amount of fish (depending on attrition).

She loves writing, reading, traveling, hiking, playing with her kids, and watching her husband make dinner.

She used to speak fluent Swedish, but now speaks only well enough to cuss out her children in public.

She hates mayonnaise.

Website

Martha's Bookshelf***Friday Pick Giveaway July 4, 2014

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

HAPPY FOURTH OF JULY!! I hope it is safe and fun for everyone who celebrates today.
I feel sad that I haven't gotten any reviews posted this week. My normal lap top is in the shop and this travel one doesn't have my usual word/word perfect programs. I wasn't able to get a word file open at the beginning of the week and the last two nights I have gone to bed at 8:30pm and 8:00pm.  I think it's because I have been up early (5am and 6am) every morning for court hearings.  I will finish set up for this post at about 9:15pm and plan to head to bed then.  I'll have to get up early to pick winners.

[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 June 27 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.

CONGRATULATIONS
to Random.org picked Winners from June 27 Pick:
Texas Book Lover gets Trial by Fire

Mystica gets a GC

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.}

I plan to rest a bit on 7/4, then celebrate my DH birthday.  

I always say he is a firecracker!

Image found at Soda Springs Public Library.

New Book Group #49 June 27, 2014
Pic is up - list to be input later

New Book Group #48 May 30, 2014

PAIRS:
Karen Haper:  Black Orchid (spine creases) and Shaker Run
Elizabeth Lowell: Fever and The Color of Death
SINGLES:
After Dark by Phillip Margolin Audio Tapes
Dangerous by Debra Dier
First to Fight Anthology
Full Bloom by Jayne Ann Krentz
Mesmerized by Gayle Lynds
On the Edge by Susan Kearney
Safe by His Side by Linda Conrad
Son of the Sword by J. Ardian Lee
Spring Fancy by LaVyrle Spenser
Tangled Lives by Margot Dalton
Trial by Fire by Jo Davis
Underfoot by Leanne Banks


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:
Trey's Secret by Lois Faye Dayer
Midnight Reign by Chris Marie Green
Once Upon a Moon by Julie Kistler
The Secret Life of Bees by Sue Monk Kidd
The Hidden Truth of Cytech's Randall Forty byVickie Kennedy



New Book Group #46 March 15, 2014

PAIRS:
   Virginia Henley - Notorious and Insatiable
   Debbie Macomber - Navy Woman and This Matter of Marriage
SINGLES:
Sweet Talking Man by Betina Krain
Penhollow by Georgette Heyer
The Last Heiress by Bertrice Small (spine creases)
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:
Out of Darkness by Lynn Erickson
Lord Braybrook's Penniless Bride by Elizabeth Rolls
Contract Dad by Helen Shelton
Hearts Are Wild by Laura Wright

New Book Group #44 December 14, 2013---(All gone)

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

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

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

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

New Book Group #29 June 29, 2012
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---(All gone)

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 679+ 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)

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)

Mailbox Monday June 30, 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 have received one review book, two free SYNC audios and many free kindle downloads.

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

Are your mailbox and TBR piles blooming?

Review Titles

I received this August release title from the author for review and to host a giveaway. 

The Freezer (The Tanner Sequence)

Timothy S. Johnston

Won

None

Purchased

None

Free

I got this week's duo from SYNC YA for "Strength in Adversity":


Forgive Me, Leonard Peacock 
by Matthew Quick

October Mourning: A Song for Matthew Shepard

by Lesléa Newman

Plus I downloaded another 52 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.