Audible Review: Deadly Shores: Destroyermen, Book 9 by Taylor Anderson

I give top credits for hours of entertainment in the latest installment to this great series.
Deadly Shores: Destroyermen, Book 9
Written by: Taylor Anderson
Narrated by: William Dufris

• Length: 16 hrs and 52 mins 
• • Series: Destroyermen, Book 9
• Format: Unabridged


Release Date:05-06-14
Publisher: Tantor Audio

Genre: Sci Fi
My Rating: 4.75 of 5.0

Publisher's Summary
The long-planned raid on the heart of the Grik Empire has grown more ambitious - and dangerously ill-defined. Only Matthew Reddy, commander of the old destroyer USS Walker, seems focused on its original intent.
Many Lemurians see an opportunity to reconquer their sacred homeland, which was stolen long ago, and have no intention of simply striking a blow and then pulling back. Others, Lemurian and human, have their own agendas - which may not be in the best interests of the Alliance. Complicating matters further is Reddy's suspicion that his task force is being stalked by an unknown power bent on aiding the Grik for reasons of its own.
As the raid begins and chaos reigns, Reddy has no choice but to go all in, risking everything in a desperate act that results in a sprawling, nightmarish battle on the beaches of "Grik City", on the very decks of Walker, and in the labyrinthine passageways of the Celestial Palace itself.
The final cost could be more than Matt Reddy - or the Alliance - can bear.
©2013 Taylor Anderson (P)2014 Tantor

Review:
The first portion of this book gives history and character re-cap to familiarize those who don’t know the series or to refresh others. There are personal snippets to bring some of the major characters to the forefront. Then the battle action begins in force, even as some of the strategy gets lost to zealous, mixed motives.

The battles of Captain Reddy and the Grand Alliance continue on three fields in thes latest installment of this wonderful alternate world series. General Pete Alden faces off with the Grik General Halick, in India. The two military leaders are beginning to respect each other as they realize they can continue to fight to decimate each others’ armies or they can step apart and regroup for another day.

British High Admiral Jenks is leading the Imperial troops, with Orrin Reddy’s “Nancys” airteam, in the eastern front battle against the Dominion. Although they are positioning themselves well in Guayak, New Granada Province, they have no real idea of the Dominion forces that are grouping in the Atlantic.

Meanwhile Captain Reddy, his naval forces and many of the Lemurian leaders and troops begin their raid against the Grik on their own home front in Madagascar. Unfortunately, not all the leaders had the same acknowledged goals and the raid turns into a full on assault. The indomitable Dennis Silva takes a small band to sneak into the Grik fortress to capture the Celestial Mother. Several characters who have become endeared are killed or injured in this reckless and costly mission.

I totally enjoyed the plot lines, the imagination and progress of the story. The Doms are still a massive threat and The Japanese enemy, Captain Hisashi Kurokawa, is rebuilding after his defeat at the battle at Madras (Storm Surge). Allies are shifting as Kurokawa is set to betray the Grik allies he made when first he came to this world. As this book closes a new enemy emerges in the form of Italian fascists. I look forward to learning what new adventures and dangers the characters will face in the next book.

Audio Notes: I truly enjoy the narration by William Dufris. He brings the characters alive and helps me get emerged into the world of the Destroyermen. I am glad I have been enjoying this series in audio and I highly recommend it.

I bought this with my Audible subscription so I could continue the adventures.

Book Review and Giveaway: Sunshine by Janet Spaeth

This is a ‘sunny’ gem.

Sunshine
by Janet Spaeth

• Series: HEARTSONG PRESENTS - CONTEMPORARY (Book 957)
• Mass Market Paperback: 176 pages
• Publisher: Heartsong Presents (May 25, 2011)
• ISBN-10: 1616263377

Genre: Contemporary Romance
My Rating: 4.25 of 5.0

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….

Review:
Olivia (Livvy) works for a successful real estate office in Boston. She finds a North Dakota newspaper on her car proclaiming the sale of Sunshine Resort. She has always wanted to travel and this paper finding its way to her must be a sign from God, right? She gives notice and heads out to North Dakota.

Hayden has been raised helping his grandfather run Sunshine Resort until two years ago when they finally hung a Closed sign. It seemed that no one wanted to relax and fish at a peaceful resort anymore but instead they headed to fast paced resort locations. Hayden knows that Gramps will be saddened to leave the place and move to town with Hayden but it isn’t safe to leave him on his own anymore.

Hayden and Gramps aren’t quite sure why Livvy has appeared and whether she is the right person to purchase Sunshine. But no one else is making offers and the more Gramps watches Hayden and Livvy together the more he is certain that this is right.

Does Livvy have what it takes to fullfill her dreams and bring new life to Sunshine? I encourage you to read this little gem yourself to find out how she fares in real estate and heart development.

These are gentle and lovely characters. It is charming out the circumstances develop and how Livvy’s faith blooms to come along side of Hayden’s steadfast faith. This only took a few hours to read and it made me smile. Someday when you need a sweet, quick and delightful read, I think you’ll find this fits the bill.

Some 'Gramps' wisdom:

     “God works in mysterious ways,” Gramps added. “... He’s given us a map, and we can stay on the road and enjoy the ultimate destination, or we can do like most of us do and meander all over the countryside, taking wrong turns and finding dead ends.” Page 23

     “Love is like the wedding silver. The good and the bad will both add to the gleam, compared to the sharp imitation-silver spoon that can’t bear scratches. It’s disposable, so we can get rid of it when we’re not pleased with it.”
     “...That’s love. From new-spoon shiny to old-spoon gleam, it’s all good.” page 115.

I 've had this on my TBR since July 2012.

I decided I would offer this book as giveaway too or as a choice.
This is a Giveaway to help me read from my vast Kindle TBR library. Here is how to enter this Giveaway:
In the comments give me a word that you would like me to find in a book title to read. For example the word could be "fun" or "midnight" or any (decent) word that strikes your fancy. It might be a word from a book title you yourself want to read and you can name the whole title (not required but you can) as well as the word.  I will pick a winner through Random.org.
I will try to find a Kindle title from my +6000 Kindle ebooks that has the winner's word in it. If I have the specific title the winner names, I will read that title and gift the book to the winner if they don't already have it. If I don't have that specific title then I will try to find another title with the winner's word in it or a word as close as I can get. I will read the book I select.  I plan to try to pick books from prior to 2014 but I leave that option available just in case.
I will try to read the book each month and hold another giveaway with the review of the book I read.
For further example: If the winning word was "fun" I have a lot of children's titles with "fun" in them or I have
Pink Slipper: a Fun, Flirty Novel which I could read.
The ebook I read I will gift the same title to the winner, OR the winner can select to receive the print copy of Sunshine.
I hope this explanation isn't too confusing and I hope it is fun as I see what comes up from words you pick. :-)
* Open Worldwide
* Closes 5pm CST July 22, 2014.

Mailbox Monday July 14, 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.

We have two new books selected for Ladies' Book Club July reading.
I purchased 3 Kindle books, downloaded the 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

These two are for Ladies' Book Club to read in July for August meeting.



Romance Rides the Range
by Colleen L. Reece
Historical Romance - 1882.
I enjoyed Sunshine so much I talked the ladies into reading this
quick Heartsong Presents title.

The Lady's Maid
by Susan Page Davis
First book in Prairie Dreams Trilogy.
We enjoyed the Ladies' Shooting Club
so agreed to read the first in this series.

Won

None

Purchased

Three .99 cent titles:
Love on the Edge: Nine Shades of Romantic Suspense

Lori Ryan, Wendy Ely, Amy Gamet, Marie-Nicole Ryan, Dale Mayer, Diana Layne, Margaret Taylor, Pauline Baird Jones, Kathryn Jane

9 Romantic Suspense titles with one of my fav authors (Pauline Baird Jones)

Scandalous Summer Nights: A Sexy Historical Romance Box Set 

(A Collection of Series Starters Book 1)

Grace Callaway, Jennifer Haymore, Sabrina Darby, Vivienne Westlake, Sandy Raven, Sue London, Kate McKinley

Hard to resist 7 historical romances for .99 cents.

Jackal (Regency Refuge Book 2)

Heather Gray

Kindle Edition

Historical Romance that sounded good.

Free

I got this week's duo from SYNC YA  where we "Learn From the Past":

While the World Watched
by Carolyn Maull McKinstry with Denise George
A unique and moving exploration of how racial relations have evolved over the past five decades.

Claudette Colvin: Twice Toward Justice
by Phillip Hoose

The first in-depth account of a major, yet little-known, civil rights figure whose story provides a fresh perspective on the Montgomery bus protest of 1955–56.

Plus I downloaded another 57 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 14, 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.

I guess every week is busy it seems. I was in the office Saturday to work on publishing tasks.
This week coming is really going to be a doozy with three days of court hearings and hopefully several commercial closings.

Reading and listening was good.  I finished three books and am mid-way+ in two others. I posted three reviews at the end of the week, one with print giveaway.  I also posted the usual memes. :-)

I was glad to visit early in the week.
Thanks as always to all the nice people who visit me.

These were last week's posts:

• It's Monday! What are You Reading? July 7, 2014.

• Mailbox Monday July 7, 2014.

• Winners Of Giveaways June 14 through July 5, 2014.

• Book Review: Inn at Last Chance by Hope Ramsey; Contemporary Romance; my rating 4.25.

• Martha's Bookshelf***Friday Pick Giveaway July 11, 2014.  Open Worldwide. Ends 7/17/14.

• Audible Book Review: Jenning's Diary by Anthony Buckeridge; Juvenile Fiction, Classic; my rating 4.0.  

• Book Review and (Print) Giveaway: Falling to Pieces Shipshewana Amish Mystery Series #1 by Vannetta Chapman; Amish Fiction, Mystery; my rating 4.5.  Open US; ends July 20, 2014.

• Sharing Beyond Books #159 Comment Giveaway 7/12/14; Open Worldwide. Ends 7/19/14.

• Sunday Words of Encouragement July 13, 2014.

Finished Reading:

1. Audible

Deadly Shores: Destroyermen, Book 9
Written by: Taylor Anderson
Narrated by: William Dufris
More great action and imagination.
Click on book title for full description.

2. eBook/Kindle

Take Back the Morning
by Evan Howard
This is an interesting story presenting 
a strong Christian message. I'll post a review this week.
Click on book title for full description.

3. Audio/MP Player

The Divine Inspiration of the Bible
Author: Arthur W. Pink
Narrator: Ralph Cosham
This is wonderfully edifying and encouraging.
I received this from Audiobook Jukebox.
Publisher/Date: Blackstone Audio, 05/06/14
Summary
“Deny that the Bible is, without any qualifications, the very word of God, and you are left without any ultimate standard of measurement and without any supreme authority.”—from the book
The Bible is the foundation of Christianity. In The Divine Inspiration of the Bible, Arthur Pink sets out to defend the belief that this holy book is, in fact, the true word of God. In doing so he examines the idea of divine inspiration and presents various arguments that aim to prove God Almighty is the author of the Bible.
This book not only examines evidence for the trustworthiness of scripture and what belief in inspiration means but also helps Christians achieve a firmer understanding of the Bible’s authority.
Originally published in 1917

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

Currently reading:
1. Print

Every Time I Love You
by Heather Graham
I am about 3/4ths complete in this enjoyable 'double' romance.
Every Time I Love You is the captivating tale of a modern couple and their struggle with ill-fated past lives.

2. eBook/Kindle

Half a King
by Joe Abercrombie
I am mid-way in this very engaging fantasy.
I received this from Del Rey through NetGalley.
Book Description
Publication Date: July 15, 2014
“A fast-paced tale of betrayal and revenge that grabbed me from page 1 and refused to let go.”—George R. R. Martin
“I swore an oath to avenge the death of my father. I may be half a man, but I swore a whole oath.”

Prince Yarvi has vowed to regain a throne he never wanted. But first he must survive cruelty, chains, and the bitter waters of the Shattered Sea. And he must do it all with only one good hand.

The deceived will become the deceiver.
Born a weakling in the eyes of his father, Yarvi is alone in a world where a strong arm and a cold heart rule. He cannot grip a shield or swing an axe, so he must sharpen his mind to a deadly edge.

The betrayed will become the betrayer.
Gathering a strange fellowship of the outcast and the lost, he finds they can do more to help him become the man he needs to be than any court of nobles could.

Will the usurped become the usurper?
But even with loyal friends at his side, Yarvi finds that his path may end as it began—in twists, and traps, and tragedy.

3. Audio

Lightning Fall, A Novel of Disaster
Author: Bill Quick
Narrator: Johnny Heller
I have just started this Sci Fi - post apocalyptic.
I received this from Audiobook Jukebox.
Publisher/Date: Blackstone Audio, 04/29/14
Summary
Three terrorist attacks are launched from freighters against the United States. Only one fully succeeds, but in the blink of an eye all of the country west of the Rocky Mountains is transformed into the technological equivalent of the eighteenth century—no electricity, no computers, no electronics of any kind, or any of the amenities of modern life that depend on them. This is the story of ordinary and extraordinary people, high and low, who struggle to survive in a mortally wounded nation, as America’s enemies within and without circle for the kill.
A Latino gangbanger becomes mayor of a devastated Los Angeles; a gay survivalist fights for his life in San Francisco; an ordinary Indiana housewife and her three children struggle to keep their lives together in a crashing economy; a shrimp fisherman in Louisiana watches a mushroom cloud rise over New Orleans; the admiral in charge of the military defense of the nation faces a storm of enemies from every corner of the compass; and the president of the United States and the Speaker of the House of Representatives battle for supremacy as the lives of sixty million Americans hang in the balance.
Lightning Fall tells a story of terror, tragedy, and triumph that you will never forget.
© 2014 by Bill Quick

The next eBook will be Sky Zone A Novel by Creston Mapes (David Cook).

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 releasing several novels in print.

I still have some books carried forward. It doesn't look to good for getting my own TBRs this month. Ah well.
I completed three reviews and have three new ones so the outstanding number is five. Guess I need to try to get at least four done this week.

June Scheduled -
Planning on an unscheduled giveaway soon.

NetGalley - May Picks to be read in June/July:
Half a King by Joe Abercrombie (Reading)
Oliver and the Seawigs by Philip Reeve, Illustrated by Sarah McIntyre
Sky Zone A Novel by Creston Mapes  (David Cook)
SEAL Team Six: Hunt the Wolf by Don Mann A SEAL Team Six Novel (Mulholland Books)
Neverhome by Laird Hunt (Little, Brown and Company) 
The Night Visitor by Dianne Emley (Random House)

Authors:
The Freezer (The Tanner Sequence) by Timothy S. Johnston

From Story Bundle -  I am enjoying the romance bundle and so glad I got these.  There are several other Bundles available now.
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
The Divine Inspiration of the Bible by Arthur W. Pink (Ready for review)
Lightning Fall by Bill Quick (Listening)
Of Neptune: Syrena Legacy, Book 3 by Anna Banks

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

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

Sunday Words of Encouragement July 13, 2014

Pastor’s message was derived from Romans 16:18-19. [For they that are such serve not our Lord Jesus Christ, but their own belly; and by good words and fair speeches deceive the hearts of the simple.  19 For your obedience is come abroad unto all men. I am glad therefore on your behalf: but yet I would have you wise unto that which is good, and simple concerning evil.]

Pastor noted that the word “simple” in both sentences has a different but intentional meaning.  The first means that wicked men will deceive the minds of the naive. In verse 19 “innocent to evil” means innocent about evil things. Although we are of the world, we are to be unmixed with things of evil. We are to keep our lives undiluted or unpolluted by evil things.

Jesus sent his disciples out into the world saying: “Go your way; behold, I am sending you out as lambs in the midst of wolves.” Luke 10:3. Do not relax your conscious, or integrity, in commitment to things of God. Be careful how you mix with the world. Don't try to use earthly wisdom to out think God. Be ‘simple’ or pure in minds and goals. Being pure and simple regarding evil is to avoid negative influences, wicked thoughts and  bad attitudes, or evil natures. Chose to do the pure action by examining your motives. Our main goal should be gaining Godliness and ministering to others. Ask not what God can do for you, but ask what you can do for Him.

Oh - I found several wonderful 'light in the darkness' songs!

I chose this one. 

Philippians 2:14-16 (ESV)
 14 Do all things without grumbling or disputing, 15 that you may be blameless and innocent, children of God without blemish in the midst of a crooked and twisted generation, among whom you shine as lights in the world, 16 holding fast to the word of life, so that in the day of Christ I may be proud that I did not run in vain or labor in vain.

Lord, help me to remember this message each day. Help me to focus on You, good things, and how I can serve you each day. 

Sharing Beyond Books #159 Comment Giveaway July 12, 2014

Hello again on Saturday night and Welcome to Sharing Beyond Books, SBB!
I worked late today and then did a review this evening. Now it is getting late but I want to get this posted.

Thanks to everyone who commented last week.
Eight commenters have used Groupon coupons/discounts. Seven have not used Groupon and three do not have it in their country. Scottsgal mentioned that she has used them for vacation and I will have to check that out.

~~~~

The Winner from SBB #158 comments is: #1 SarahM 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 #159 (One Question.)

Q1. Mary P asks: How old were you when you first flew??

A: I remember traveling for vacation by car and train when I was young. I cannot remember if I flew when I was in my teens. We did a lot of boating and I can't recall if we ever flew to or from the islands. The first major flight I remember for sure was part of my college graduation gift. My Dad flew me to Los Angeles for Super Bowl  VII - the undefeated season for the Miami Dolphins. It was January 1973 and then we went on to Hawaii to visit my sister and brother-in-law who was stationed there at the time. Oh - that would have made my age 21.

I spotted this looking for images and thought it was neat!
Image found at Time War Vintage Toys.

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. Mary P asks: How old were you when you first flew??

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 19, 2014 at 5 PM  central.

Book Review and Giveaway: Falling to Pieces, Shipshewana Amish Mystery Series #1 by: Vannetta Chapman

This is a very nice gentle mystery.
Falling to Pieces, Shipshewana Amish Mystery Series #1
by: Vannetta Chapman

• Series: A Shipshewana Amish Mystery
• Paperback: 336 pages
• Publisher: Zondervan (September 26, 2011)
• ISBN-10: 0310330432
• Genre: Amish Fiction, Mystery
• My Rating: 4.5 of 5.0

Product Description
When two women-one Amish, one English-each with different motives, join forces to organize a successful on-line quilt auction, neither expects nor wants a friendship. As different as night and day, Deborah and Callie are uneasy partners who simply want to make the best of a temporary situation. But a murder, a surprising prime suspect, a stubborn detective, and the town's reaction throw the two women together, and they form an unlikely alliance to solve a mystery and catch a killer.

Review:
Deborah is a sweet and strong Amish wife, mother and friend. She is concerned for her two best friends, Melinda who has a very sick child, and Esther, who is grieving after the death of her husband. The three have been making beautiful quilts which they sell through Daisy’s Quilt Shop, which was run by Daisy, an Englisher who had become an accepted part of the community. But Deborah found Daisy dead in her garden and now the shop is owned by Daisy’s niece, Callie.

Callie left her job in Texas and is struggling with depression. She expects to sell the quilt shop and move on but until then she is hunkering down in the apartment above the shop. Callie inherited Max, a faithful Labrador, along with the shop and although a bit of a nuisance he is also turning out to be a good companion.

Deborah and Callie form a tentative friendship when Deborah talks Callie into opening the shop and into selling their recent quilts on eBay. The news editor in town accuses Callie of taking advantage of the Amish even though that is untrue. Callie argues with the man when she demands a retraction and now Callie is under suspicion for his murder. Deborah and her friends take a strong stand to support their new friend, Callie.

Officer Black is the investigator who pushes witnesses until he uncovers the facts and gets his man, or woman. Esther and her friends have had experience with Black when he pushed in the investigation of her husband’s death. Although Officer Black seems really rough, he has a good heart.

The Amish and Englisher characters and relationships are very lovely. The added element of a good mystery makes this a really enjoyable story. I also liked the nuggets of gentle faith and wisdom shared through the real life circumstances. The writing is straight forward making it an easy read.  All of the ladies from book club enjoyed this too and we would be glad to read more by this author. I recommend this to anyone who enjoys Amish stories and also to those who like a good mystery.

I picked these books up at a bargain price at Christianbook.com for our ladies' book club selection for June.

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 print book.
* This contest will close 5 PM (Central) July 20, 2014.
WINNER WILL BE ANNOUNCED after July 20, 2014.
Winners will have 72 hours to respond by email or the winners form linked in the announcement.

Audio Book Review: Jennings' Diary by Anthony Buckeridge

This is a charming story for middle grade, young adults or adults who might enjoy a nostalgic view of boyish mishaps.

JENNINGS BOOKS: JENNINGS DIARY (1953)
Jennings' Diary by Anthony Buckeridge
read by Simon Vance

Audio Book Length:  4 Hrs 28 Min
# of Audio CD's:  4
# of MP3 CD's:  1
Audio CD ISBN:  978-1-926910-35-2

In this audiobook - it is the Easter term at Linbury Court School and Jennings has been promised five pounds by his aunt if he keeps up his diary every day. When he and Darbishire devise a code for entries, things really start to happen - the nasty incident of Wilkins's mark book is only one of them.

Review:
Jennings is a young English boy away at boarding school for the Easter term. His Aunt gave him a diary for Christmas and promised him five pounds if he writes in the diary each day. When he returned to school one of his classmates found the diary and began teasing him. Jennings entries are rather dull and common-place, tending towards his routines, “ate breakfast”, or the weather with those entries looking a lot like: “hot toddy” instead of “hot today”.

After rescuing his book he decides to write in code in case it gets taken again. Now the entries look like: "Hah-ooh cinosrepus! 'Selbanev, Nosnikta, Senoj-Nitram,'..." Jennings makes an innocent entry about his sometimes impatient forms teacher, Mr. Wilkins, known as Old Wilkie. Mr. Wilkins sees the entry that reads something like ‘Wilkie - lost link’ and takes it as an insult setting the two at odds.

Jennings records his attempts to start a museum with all the ‘treasures’ that young boys are apt to find. He and his best friend, Darbershire, sneak off one day in search of a gift for the school nurse who has been kind to Jennings. One misstep leads to another but the resulting gift giving and confusion is really quite sweet.

Jennings and Darbishire find a genuine fake Roman carriage wheel which causes no small trouble with Old Wilkie and the boys’ museum. The cumbersome wheel assemblage becomes even more of a problem as the boys try to take it to the curator of the Dunhambury Museum.

At one point Old Wilkie confiscates the diary but lends it back to Jennings a few weeks later so that he can transfer the entries from his notebook. Jennings goes through a bad day when he thinks he has lost the diary. Not only will he have to face Old Wilkie when he can’t return the book, but he is afraid the police will find it and think it is about Russian spies due to the nature of his code.

The story is a very charming view of the mischief of young boys in a gentler setting than today’s world. The convoluted, though often innocent, thinking and actions of Jennings makes for awkward and funny situations.

I hope to share it with my own 10 year old grandson. It is not fast action and adventure as we think of them today but it is action and adventure for young boys in a historic time setting.

Audio Notes: I have to state that I would probably enjoy any audio read by Simon Vance. Vance is a consummate narrator who manages to share multiple voices and personalities in his smooth British accent. He does a wonderful job with the school boys, the teachers and headmaster, moving from one to the next so that you can picture the whole scene. This is a book I would probably not pick up in print but found great enjoyment listening to. I am looking forward to listening to more of Jennings’ adventures as shared through Vance’s magical presentation.

I received this audiobook from Post Hypnotic Press Books for review.

Martha's Bookshelf***Friday Pick Giveaway July 11, 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 Friday - again. I am fading fast tonight. Boy these weeks seem to be flying by. 
I do apologize that I haven't listed the new books yet. I know some of you are picking from the picture which is good. I didn't get time on the past two Saturdays with family visits. I'll have to try to remember this Saturday. ** Books listed now.**

[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 July 4 Pick. There was one automatic win 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 and won.
Rubynreba gets On the Edge

CONGRATULATIONS
to Random.org picked Winners from July 4 Pick:
Sue F gets The Grey Beginning

Booklady gets Underfoot (through a 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.}

Well - it could be any season and I'd still say "Give me books!"

Image found at Village Books and Paper Dreams

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

PAIRS:
Sandra Brown:  The Thrill of Victory and Temperatures Rising
Beverly Barton: The Last to Die and Raintree: Sanctuary
SINGLES:
Jezebel by Katherine Sutcliff
Down by the Water by Caroline Upcher
Hawkes Harbor by S.E. Hinton
Savage Thunder by Cassie Edwards
Miracle by Deborah Smith
Desperate Alliances by Cory Daniells
Never Walk Alone by Paula Detmer Riggs
The Awakening and Selected Short Stories by Kate Chopin
Running Blind by Lee Child
Dirty Sexy Knitting by Christie Ridgway
The Grey Beginning by Barbara Michaels
The Highlander's Bride by Michele Sinclair


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 682+ 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)

Book Review: Inn at Last Chance by Hope Ramsay

This is a sweet, entertaining romance with a ghostly element.
Inn at Last Chance
by Hope Ramsay

• File Size: 1207 KB
• Print Length: 365 pages
• Page Numbers Source ISBN: 1455522317
• Publisher: Forever (April 29, 2014)
• Sold by: Hachette Book Group
• ASIN: B00ECEA30M

Genre: Contemporary Romance with Paranormal Element
My Rating: 4.25 of 5.0

Book Description
Publication Date: April 29, 2014
"Last Chance captures the essence of Southern charm and quirkiness. I'm totally captivated!" --- Sherryl Woods, New York Times bestselling author
Jenny Carpenter is the unrivaled pie-baking champion of Last Chance, South Carolina's annual Watermelon Festival and the town's unofficial spinster. With her dream of marriage and children on hold, she focuses on another dream, turning the local haunted house into a charming bed-and-breakfast. But her plans go off course when the home's former owner shows up on her doorstep on a dark and stormy night . . .

Mega-bestselling horror writer Gabriel Raintree is as mysterious and tortured as his heroes. His family's long-deserted mansion is just the inspiration he needs to finish his latest twisted tale, or so he thinks until he learns it's been sold. The new innkeeper proves to be as determined as she is kind, and soon Gabriel finds himself a paying guest in his own home. As Jenny and Gabe bring new passion to the old house, can she convince him to leave the ghosts of his past behind-and make Last Chance their first choice for a future together?

Review:
Things haven’t worked out in the romance department for Jenny so she has sworn off men.  Instead she has turned her efforts to getting her Inn ready to open. She is waiting for furniture and accessories. Instead she finds an large, stray dog in her yard. Then Gabriel Raintree shows up on a dark, stormy night seeking a room. He tries to buy the property back from her and she sends him packing.

Gabe doesn’t want to stay in the rundown motel in town. He is convinced that his writer’s block will be solved if he can only stay in his old childhood home. Gabe gets his wish to stay at the Inn when the library committee convinces Jenny to allow him a room in exchange for him speaking at a fundraiser.

Gabe lost his older brother, Luke, in a shooting accident when Gabe was just a young boy. He doesn’t remember much about the incident but holds anger towards Zeph who claimed blame for the accident. Gabe doesn’t understand why Zeph keeps warning him away from the house. The new dog adopts Gabe who dubs him “Bear” because he looks just like Luke’s dog.

A strange force at the Inn starts to cause mischief, first for Jenny then Gabe. The energy reacts badly when the new preacher in town comes for dinner. Jenny is glad for the chance to impress someone with her cooking since Gabe has refused to eat any of the pastries she makes each morning. Jenny is determined not to let a ghost defeat her dreams. Meanwhile the ghostly presence is helping Gabe with his writing. But the towns folk are questioning Jenny’s behavior and whether Gabe is violent.

Jenny and Gabe fight their attraction to each other for their own reasons. Jenny is afraid of being hurt and rejected again. Gabe has secrets that keep him from becoming involved and from being honest about his circumstances. Still the attraction grows and they are drawn even closer until danger threatens and Gabe’s secrets are revealed.

Can Gabe overcome his past to find a future? Will Jenny get to have her dreams fulfilled? This is worth the reading to find out. The writing moves smoothly and the small, Southern town setting makes it cozy and warm. I liked the tension between Jenny and Gabe which is enhanced by the mystery of the ghost. The long denied, gentle relationship between Zeph and Nita adds to the story, as does the dog character. This is a sweet, engaging series but this story could be a stand alone read with no trouble.

I received this title from the publisher, through NetGalley, for an honest review.

You can find my other reviews from the Last Chance series at THIS LINK.

Winners for Giveaways June 14 Through July 5, 2014

Giveaway Ended July 5, 2014

Audio Book Giveaway June 2014

WINNER #1:  KIKI - Audio choice up to $30.00
WINNER #2: SHANNON  - Select an audiobook from the boxes in the Giveaway



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

Giveaway Ended July 2, 2014

Print Giveaway: 
The Trouble with Harry by Katie MacAlister

WINNER: LORI H






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Giveaway Ended June 23, 2014

Print Giveaway: The Crossing, Last Cavaliers Series #1 by Gilbert Morris

WINNER: DEBBIE D.





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Giveaways Ended June 14, 2014

Print Giveaway: The Windflower by Laura London

WINNER: TEXAS BOOK LOVER








ALL WINNERS: Please fill in the Winner's Acceptance Form AND if you want you can email me at mesreads AT gmail.com to confirm the win and I will arrange the mailing or notify the publishers.
[I ask that all winner's fill in the form as it helps me keep track of when I have completed the mail outs or notice to the publishers rather than tracking individual emails. But of course -- feel free to email me too! :-)]