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Thursday, January 1, 2015

MBS 2014 Reading List

MBS (Martha's Bookshelf) 2014 Reading List
Summary: 157 Total. 63 Audio Books (29 of them being from my own TBR audio libraries); 37 books through NetGalley; 12 from authors (not through NetGalley); 10 from tours (not through NetGalley); 9 from Publishers (not through NetGalley); 10 for Book Club; 16 from TBR shelf (not including Audios). 24 of the total were print books. Total TBR with audio = 45. My Goal is to increase this TBR number in 2015.
DNF - One audio that I have not listed. I will try it again in 2015 to see if I can get into it.

I posted 59 special giveaways and about 52 Friday Picks and 52 Sharing Beyond Books giveaways for a total of 163.
My author features were fewer this year with less than 20 tour features or guest posts. This was intentional due to my own health issues. I did not have the energy to do interviewing or commit to deadlines until later in the year.

I just looked at my lists from prior years to compare:
2013: Completed 212
2012: Completed 218
2011: Completed 251
2010: Completed 173
2009: Completed 188
My 2014 completed number is down a bit from the past years but I am comfortable with that. It may have been due to less energy during the Cancer treatments or it might have been due to spending a bit more time on the publishing company - which was/is needed. The 2014 numbers work out to three books a week and I had all reviewed by year-end except one novel (and the Bible which I don't review). As noted, this is comfortable so I plan to stay with this range and not push for higher numbers which creates more work and stress.

JANUARY
    2.
  • Book Review: The Wanderer by Cheryl Mahoney; Fantasy; my rating 4.5.
    4.
  • Book Review and Giveaway: White Rogue by David R. Fett M.D., Stephen Langford & Connie Malcolm; Spy Thriller; my rating 4.0. Open US; Ends 1/24.
    6.
  • Book Review: Cloaked in Danger by Jeannie Ruesch; Historical Romance, Regency; my rating 4.5.
    7.
  • Audio Book Review: Flight of the Bowyer by Kenneth R. Lewis; Political Thriller, Futuristic; my rating 4.5.
    9.
  • Book Review with Giveaway Link: Warrior's Moon by Jaclyn M. Hawkes; Medieval Historical Romance; my rating 4.25.  Ends 2/23/14.
    13.
  • Book Review with Giveaway Question: The Sheriff's Surrender by Susan Page Davis, Historical, Inspirational; my rating 4.25.  Giveaway to come soon.
FEBRUARY
    17.
  • Audible Book Review: Ghost Hunter by Jayne Castle, Paranormal Romance; my rating 3.75. 
    19.
  • Book Review and Tour Giveaway: New Frontier by Jeremy Lee; Sci Fi; my rating 4.5. GC giveaway Ends 3/2/14.
    20.
  • Book Review with Print Giveaway: Sleeping Dogs by Tony Vanderwarker; Thriller; my rating 5.0. Open US Only. Ends 2/28/14.
    23.
  • Audio Book Review: The Tempest by William Shakespeare; Classic, Dramatization; my rating 4.0.
    25.
  • Audio Book Review: Of Poseidon by Anna Banks; fantasy; my rating 4.75.
MARCH
    32.
  • Audio Book Review: A Blind Goddess by James R. Benn; World War II Mystery; my rating 4.25.
    33.
  • Book Review: Heart of a Hero by Marie Higgins; Historical Romance, Western, Inspirationa; my rating 4.25.
    36.
  • Book Review: Jaspar's War by Cym Lowell; Thriller; my rating 4.25.
APRIL
    39.
  • Audio Book Review: The Protector by Marliss Melton; Romantic Suspense; my rating 4.25.
    40.
  • Book Review: Issachar's Heirs by Brian Chilton; Political Thriller, Christian Fiction; my rating 4.75. 
    41.
  • Book Review and Giveaway: Unwilling Warrior by Andrea Boeshaar; Inspirational, Historical Romance; my rating 4.5.  Ends 4/14/14, 5pm CST.
    49.
  • Book Review and Giveaway: The Seducer by Madeline Hunter; Historical Romance; my rating 3.75. 
    52.
  • Book Review: Fair Play: a Novel by Deeanna Gist; Historical Romance, Inspirational; my rating 5.0. 
MAY
    56.
  • Audio Book Review: Harmless by Ernie Lindsey; Mystery; my rating 4.0. 
    60.
  • Book Review: Thunder Mountain by Dean Wesley; Time Travel, Romance; my rating 4.0.
    63.
  • Audio Book Review: Erian's Lair #2 by Tony Lee Henderson; Fantasy, Juvenile Fiction; my rating 4.0.
    65.
  • Book Review: Simply Irresistible by Kristine Grayson; Paranormal  Romance; my rating 4.0.
    66.
  • Book Review and Giveaway: The Windflower by Laura London; Historical Romance; my rating 3.5.
JUNE
    70.
  • Book Review and Giveaway: The Trouble With Harry by Katie MacAllister; Historical Romance; my rating 4.25.  Open US; ends July 2, 2014.
    73.
  • Audible Book Review: Greenwillow by B.J. Chute; Classic Fiction; my rating 5.0.
    74.
  • Audio Book Review: Edge of Tomorrow by Hiroshi Sakurazaka; Sci Fi; my rating 4.25.
    75.
  • 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.
    76.
  • Book Review and (Print) Giveaway: Heading Home by John Robinson; Christian Fiction; my rating 4.0.  Open US; ends July 12, 2014.
    77.
  • Book Review: Inn at Last Chance by Hope Ramsey; Contemporary Romance; my rating 4.25.
    78.
  • Audible Book Review: Jenning's Diary by Anthony Buckeridge; Juvenile Fiction, Classic; my rating 4.0.  
JULY
    80.
  • Book Review and Comment Giveaway: Sunshine by Janet Spaeth; Contemporary Romance; my rating 4.25. Comment Giveaway Open Worldwide. Ends 7/22/14.
    82.
  • Book Review: Take Back the Morning by Evan Howard; Inspirational Fiction, Thriller; my rating 4.0.  
    84.
  • Book Review and Giveaway: Every Time I Love You by Heather Graham; Contemporary Romance with historical elements; my rating 4.0.  Open US. Ends 8/2/14.
    85.
  • Book Review: Half a King by Joe Abercrombie; Fantasy Adventure; my rating 4.25.  
    86.
  • Book Review and Giveaway: Priceless by Christina Dodd; Historical Romance; my rating 4.75. Open US. Ends 8/9/14.
AUGUST
    90.
  • Book Review and Tour $25.00 Giveaway: Son of War, Daughter of Chaos by Janette Rallison; YA Fantasy, Thriller; my rating 4.5.  Open Worldwide. Ends 8/24/14.
    93.
  • Book Review and Giveaway: The Freezer (The Tanner Sequence) by Timothy S. Johnston; Sci Fi Thriller, Mystery; my rating 4.5. Open Mixed - Worldwide and US. Ends 8/23/14.
    98.
  • Book Review: Chieftain by Command by Frances Housden; Historical Romance, Scottish; my rating 4.0.  
    99.
  • Audio Book Review: Curve of Time by M. Wylie Blanchet; Memoir; my rating 5.0. 
SEPTEMBER
    102.
  • Book Review: The Traitor by Grace Burrowes; Historic Romance, Regency; my rating 4.25.
    105.
  • Book Review: Neverhome by Laird Hunt; Historic Fiction, Civil War; my rating 4.5.
    106.
  • Audio Book Review: Dead Case at Deadwood, Deadwood Mystery Book 3 by Ann Charles; Mystery, Humor; my rating 4.0.
    107.
  • Book Review: The Night Vistor by Dianne Emley; Mystery, Paranormal Thriller, my rating 4.25.
    108.
  • Book Review: Shades of Moonlight by Karen L. McKee; Mystery, Paranormal Thriller, my rating 4.25.
    111.
  • Book Review: Global Predator by Jack Maclean; Military Thriller; my rating 4.0.
OCTOBER
NOVEMBER
    126.
  • Book Review and eBook Giveaway: Pushing the Limit (Alpha Ops) by Emmy Curtis; Military Romance; my rating 4.25. Open Worldwide. Ends 11/14/14.
    136.
  • Audio Book Review: Divided We Fall by Trent Reedy; Sci Fi, YA ; my rating 4.0.
DECEMBER
    140.
  • Book Review and Giveaway: Home for the Holidays by Rochelle Alers;  Contemporary Romance; my rating 4.0. eBook Giveaway, US and Canada; ends 12/13/14.
    146.
  • Book Review: The Heir by Lynne Stringer; YA, Sci Fi; my rating 4.25.
    148.
  • Book Review and Giveaway: Jesus Daily: 365 Interactive Devotions by Aaron Tabor #JesusDailyBook; Christian, Spiritual; my rating 4.5. Tour Giveaway book + Tshirt, US Only; ends 12/20/14.
    150.
  • Book Review and Tour Giveaway: Hope Rising (Of Love and War) by Stacy Henrie, Christian, Historical Romance; my rating 4.5. Tour Giveaway 10 copies ends 12/18/14.
    154.
  • Book Review: The Advent Bride by Mary Connealy; Historical Romance, my rating: 4.5.
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First Book of the Year 2015


This Event is hosted by our lovely friend Sheila at Book Journey.  She will be posting a montage of all those participating showing our picture with our First Book of 2015.  Check it out and see what books everyone is starting the new year with!

This is the book I chose for my First read in 2015.
It is from my 2009 TBR Kindle list and
I think I will like it plus I am reading it as part of the 2014-15 Winter COYER challenge.


Shopping for Time: How to Do It All and NOT Be Overwhelmed
Carolyn Mahaney (Author), Nicole Mahaney Whitacre (Author), Kristin Chesemore (Author), Janelle Bradshaw
Book Description
Publication Date: June 26, 2007
Overwhelmed. Miserable. Exhausted. These are often the words that women use to describe their high-demand lifestyles. How are women who are always on the go expected to cope with the demands of work, family, and ministry?
Carolyn Mahaney and her three daughters, Nicole Whitacre, Kristin Chesemore, and Janelle Bradshaw, recognize the needs of Christian women today. Shopping for Time offers the solution to women who truly desire to glorify God with every use of their time.
These authors offer five tips to help ladies do it all without becoming overwhelmed: rise early, sit down, sit longer (occasionally), choose friends wisely, and take fifteen minutes. By weaving biblical principles of God's Word into these keys, these authors give women practical advice on how to fulfill-and excel in-their daily responsibilities.


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Wednesday, December 31, 2014

The TBR Double Dog Dare

The TBR Double Dog Dare


Full rules can be found HERE.

James says that The TBR Double Dog Dare is not really a reading challenge but a dare.
All you have to do to win the TBR Double Dog Dare is to read only from your TBR pile between January 1 and April 1.
I think this may be the hardest for me to achieve if it wasn't for the "exceptions.". Fortunately the rules, or non-rules, are flexible and you can exempt review books, arcs and book club books. With those exceptions I certainly have enough books to meet this dare. I even realized I have many Audible titles on my TBR that I can read during this three months too. I do expect overlap with other TBR and Audio challenges. :-)

I have been mindful of reading for COYER (and TBR DOUBLE DARE) so that other than selecting two audible books per month from my automatic subscription I have purchased NO books since December. I have only added six NetGalley books and six review books since the beginning of January. So, except for free Kindle books I have done well reading from my own TBR piles!


    JANUARY
  1. Book Review: Shopping for Time: How to Do It All and NOT Be Overwhelmed by Carolyn Mahaney, Nicole Mahaney Whitacre, Kristin Chesemore, Janelle Bradshaw; Nonfiction, Motivational; my rating 4.5.
  2. Book Review: Only Enchanting, A Survivors' Club Novel by Mary Balogh; Historical Romance; my rating 4.75.
  3. Audible Book Review: 25 Perfect Days by Mark Tullius; Sci Fi, Dystopian; my rating 3.75. (This one might be better in text.)
  4. Audible Book Review: FREE: The Jester (A Riyria Chronicles Tale) Written by Michael J. Sullivan; Fantasy;  my rating 4.5.
  5. Book Review and Giveaway: Amish White Christmas Pie by Wanda E. Brunstetter; Amish, Christian Fiction; my rating 3.75.
  6. Audio Book Review: The Eighth Day by Michael O'Neal; Thriller, Action Adventure, YA; my rating 4.0.
  7. Book Review: Exodus 2022 by Kenneth G. Bennett; Sci Fi Thriller;  my rating 4.25.
  8. AudioBook Review: Time and Again: Book 1 in the History Mystery Series by Deborah Heal; Historical Fiction, Christian Fiction, Time Travel; my rating 4.0.
  9. Book Review: 'Tis The Season: Under the Christmas Tree\Midnight Confessions\Backward Glance by Robyn Carr; Contemporary Romance, Small Town; my rating 4.5. 
  10. Book Review: Starship Blackbeard by Michael Wallace; Sci Fi, Action Adventure; my rating 4.75.
  11. Book Review: Just in Time for a Highlander (Sirens of the Scottish Borderlands) by Gwyn Cready; Time Travel, Highlander; my rating 4.0. 
  12. Book Review: The Founders' Plot by Frank Victoria; Political Thriller; my rating 4.25.
  13. Book Review: Hawk (The Quiet Professionals, Book 2) by Ronie Kendig; Military Romance, Christian; my rating 4.25.
    14. FEBRUARY
  14. Book Review: Enchanted by Alethea Kontis; Fantasy, Highlander; my rating 4.25.
  15. Book Review and Giveaway: Saving Hope: The Men of the Texas Rangers - Book 1 by Margaret Daley; Romantic Suspense; my rating 4.5. 
  16. Audio Book Review: Betrayal in Death: In Death, Book 12 by J. D. Robb Crime Thriller; my rating 4.75.
  17. Audio Book Review: Heart of Stone: Irish Angel Series by Jill Marie Landis; Historical Romance, Christian; my rating 4.0.
  18. Book Review: The Oath of Nimrod: Giants, MK-Ultra and the Smithsonian Coverup by David S. Brody; Mystery, Historical Theories; my rating 4.0.
  19. Book Review: Snow Angel Cove by RaeAnne Thayne; Contemporary Romance; my rating 4.5.
  20. Book Review: Homespun Bride by Jillian Hart; Historical Romance, Christian; my rating 4.5.
  21. Audible Book Review: Dead Reckoning: Sookie Stackhouse Southern Vampire Mystery #11 by Charlaine Harris; Fantasy, Paranormal; my rating 4.0.
  22. Audible Book Review: Review: The Beast Master by Andre Norton; Sci Fi, Fantasy; my rating 4.0.
    23. MARCH
  23. Audible Book Review: Finding Mr. Right by Emily Carmichael ; Fantasy, Paranormal; my rating 4.0.
  24. Audible Book Review: Legendarium by Kevin G. Summers, Michael Bunker; Fantasy, Humor; my rating 4.0.
  25. Book Review and Print Giveaway: Interlude in Death, In Death 12.5, by J.D. Robb; Futuristic Crime Mystery; my rating 4.5.
  26. Audio Book Review: Quitter by Jon Acuff; Nonfiction; my rating 4.0.
    27.

Completed: 26 books from my TBR shelf out of 39 titles read before April 1. 10 of these were NetGalley or audio review titles picked up in 2014 but that still left 16 TBR books in the first three months so I am pleased with that. It exceeded the 13 new titles (all reviews and none purchased). :-)
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The Official 2015 TBR Pile Challenge

The Official 2015 TBR Pile Challenge
hosted by Roof Beam Reader


Check all rules at Roof Beam Reader.com

Goal: Specify and read 12 books that must have been on your bookshelf or “To Be Read” list for AT LEAST one full year. (All published prior to 1/1/2014.)
The list must be finalized by 1/15/15. I think I am comfortable with the list below so I don't expect changes. My list shows the book, author and date added to my library.

1/10/15 I have updated my list to replace two print books with ebooks although I still hope to read the two print wins during the year. Also, I replaced one audio choice with an ebook. Chances are I'll get to the audios anyway. :-)   The alternates also changed to an older ebook and an older Audible title.
Four books are from authors I have read before (including one of the alternates); the other ten will be new to me.  All of the choices are books I have had since 2012 or earlier.
(The links go to my review of the book as I post them.)

1. Shopping for Time: How to Do It All and NOT Be Overwhelmed Carolyn Mahaney, Nicole Mahaney Whitacre, Kristin Chesemore, Janelle Bradshaw September 4,2009
2. Homespun Bride Jillian Hart May 4,2009
3. Kiss of Midnight: A Midnight Breed Novel (The Midnight Breed.. Lara Adrian May 4,2009
4. Citizens of London: The Americans Who Stood with Britain in Its Darkest, Finest Hour by Lynne Olson Audible Nov 2011
5. Awaken His Eyes: The Awakened Book One Jason Tesar May 2011
6. The New World (FREE short story) (Chaos Walking) Patrick Ness Nov 2010
7. On the Run (The Elijah Project) Bill Myers, James Riordan Nov 2010
8. The Lord Is My Shepherd: The Psalm 23 Mysteries #1 Debbie Viguie Oct 2010
Dead Reckoning Ronie Kendig Sept 2010
9. Sheltering Hearts (Virgin River) Robyn Carr Sept 2010
10. Fatal Judgment (Guardians of Justice Book #1): A Novel Irene Hannon April 2012
Spying in High Heels (High Heels Mysteries #1) Gemma Halliday Sept 2011

Alternates:
11. Frozen Past (A Jaxon Jennings' Detective Mystery Thriller Series, Book 1) Richard C Hale July 2012
12. Extremes: A Retrieval Artist Novel by Kristine Kathryn Rusch Audible Oct 12

Plus for sure I will read Cinder (The Lunar Chronicles Book 1) by Marissa Meyer - I wasn’t positive if I should count this book as it was on my Wish list since 2012 but not purchased until 2/2014. I'm such a fuddy-duddy stickler when it comes to rules that I decided not to include it in the “official” list but it is a definite read for me in early 2015.
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Audio Book Review: Dreamer's Pool: Blackthorn & Grim, Book 1 Written by: Juliet Marillier

This dark faireytale, complete with tortured characters, tricky fae magic and mysteries, is probably my favorite read of 2014.
Dreamer's Pool: Blackthorn & Grim, Book 1
Written by: Juliet Marillier
Narrated by: Scott Aiello, Natalie Gold, Nick Sullivan
Length: 17 hrs and 44 mins
Series: Blackthorn & Grim, Book 1
Unabridged Audiobook
Release Date:11-04-14
Publisher: Audible Studios
Genre: Fantasy
My Rating: 5.0 of 5.0


Publisher's Summary
Award-winning author Juliet Marillier "weaves magic, mythology, and folklore into every sentence on the page" (The Book Smugglers). Now she begins an all-new and enchanting series that will transport readers to a magical vision of ancient Ireland...
In exchange for help escaping her long and wrongful imprisonment, embittered magical healer Blackthorn has vowed to set aside her bid for vengeance against the man who destroyed all that she once held dear. Followed by a former prison mate, a silent hulk of a man named Grim, she travels north to Dalriada. There she'll live on the fringe of a mysterious forest, duty bound for seven years to assist anyone who asks for her help. Oran, crown prince of Dalriada, has waited anxiously for the arrival of his future bride, Lady Flidais. He knows her only from a portrait and sweetly poetic correspondence that have convinced him Flidais is his destined true love. But Oran discovers letters can lie. For although his intended exactly resembles her portrait, her brutality upon arrival proves she is nothing like the sensitive woman of the letters.
With the strategic marriage imminent, Oran sees no way out of his dilemma. Word has spread that Blackthorn possesses a remarkable gift for solving knotty problems, so the prince asks her for help. To save Oran from his treacherous nuptials, Blackthorn and Grim will need all their resources: courage, ingenuity, leaps of deduction, and more than a little magic.
©2014 Juliet Marillier (P)2014 Audible Inc.


Review:
Blackthorn is a woman who suffered loss and was locked up and abused when she tried to speak out about murder and injustice. The reader meets Blackthorn and Grim in a cesspool of a dungeon. Blackthorn is hoping to finally get a chance to speak out to the counsel on her innocence and the abuse she has suffered. Instead she is mocked by the guards and told that she will not be alive in the morning. Before she can succumb to complete despair she is visited by a fae Mage. He offers her freedom with several conditions. She must go to the village of Dalriada to serve as a healer; she must help whoever asks for help; and she must remain for seven years, setting aside her plans for revenge. Although the terms are hard to accept she decides it is better to live for now.

Grim is a giant of a man who has watched Blackthorn constantly from the next cell. He has watched over and tried to encourage the “Lady” whenever he could. Grim helps Blackthorn to escape the dungeon when the opportunity unexpectedly arises. He also tries to help other prisoners before he follows Blackthorn. He has nowhere else to go but really he is determined to protect her and be near the hope and light he sees within her battered being. There are only glimpses of Grim’s past but it is clear that he too is an anguished soul.

Blackthorn and Grim set up in a cottage on the estate of Prince Oran. The Prince has finally agreed to marry after a letter courtship with his intended bride, Lady Flidais. Lady Flidais and her entourage suffer tragedy when Lady Flidais’ handmaiden is drowned near the edge of the village of Dalraida. Oran is excited to welcome Lady Flidais but he is surprised by her behaviors. At first her headaches and sudden estrangement from her beloved dog are explained as the result of fatigue and distress. However, as the days come closer to their hand-fasting, Oran fears that something serious has happened to the young woman and love he dreamed of through her letters. He seeks the help of Blackthorn in a last effort to resolve his confusions.

This book is filled with totally engaging characters and a gripping tale of tragedy, hardships, folklore and dark magic! The story is told in a versatile manner from the rotating first person views of the three primary characters, Blackthorn, Grim and Oran. There are wonderful historic descriptions of the settings - dungeon, fortress, village, gypsy camp - all blended nicely into the storyline. There is backstory woven in as well as mysteries to be solved with steady reasoning and bold courage. Although I guessed the details in both mysteries it was still a delight to watch the protagonists unravel the truth and deal with the wrongdoers.

This was a delightful surprise and a book I did not want to put down. This entanglement concludes satisfactorily but leaves open questions that make me eager for more episodes and adventures. I have not read Ms. Marillier before but I will definitely be seeking the next book in this series and other works too. I highly recommend this tale to readers who enjoy a thoroughly engaging fantasy.

Audio Notes: The three narrators, Scott Aiello, Natalie Gold and Nick Sullivan, did a great job in
sharing the depths of their characters. There were times I was annoyed by the characters’ emotional responses, or lack thereof, but I felt this was intentional and that the narration conveyed the nuances of each character. The audio enhanced my pleasure in an already absorbing story.


This was a really lucky pick for me to receive from Audible through Audiobook Jukebox.
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Tuesday, December 30, 2014

Winners For December Giveaways!

Winners can be found listed on the Giveaway page and in the sidebar for a week or so after announced.
Some of these are tour wins so you will check the rafflecopter announcements on the giveaway posts.

***ALL WINNERS at MBS: 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! :-)]

CONGRATULATIONS TO ALL WINNERS!

Giveaway Ended December 27, 2014

Help Me Pick eBooks to Read - Comment Giveaway!
Two Winners: Becky chose Homespun Bride
and Lilly picked Kiss of Midnight (which was the most popular title with 4 votes) 
I plan to read these two titles in January and then we will pick for two more. :-)

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Giveaway Ended December 21, 2014

Tour Giveaway: Seducing the Ruthless Rogue (The Rogue Agents Trilogy Book 2) by Tammy Jo Burns. Tour Giveaway; Check Giveaway for Winners.

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Giveaways Ended December 20, 2014

Giveaway: Jesus Daily: 365 Interactive Devotions by Aaron Tabor #JesusDailyBook. Tour Giveaway book + Tshirt, WINNER:  LINDA K

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

Fun - #4EvrBookBoyfriend - and a Special Giveaway Pack From @ForeverRomance - #FaLaLaForever; Print Bundle! WINNER:  MELISSA B

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

Giveaway Ended December 18, 2014

Tour Giveaway: Sugar's Twice as Sweet: Sugar, Georgia: Book 1 by Marina Adair. WINNERS: see Rafflecopter for eight winners.

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Giveaway Ended December 13, 2014

Giveaway: Home for the Holidays by Rochelle Alers 
eBook:    WINNER: MARTHA L

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Giveaway Ended December 6, 2014

Book Giveaway: Sugar's Twice as Sweet: Sugar, Georgia: Book 1 by Marina Adair;
Autographed Book WINNER:  CASSIE P

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Giveaway Ended December 1, 2014

Giveaway: The Mystery of the Shemitah by Jonathan Cahn;
WINNER: BN100

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Hope Ramsay Blog Tour Giveaway
See Rafflecopter for Winners

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

Thank you to all who entered these giveaways!
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Book Review: The Advent Bride by Mary Connealy

This is a charming Christmas novella.
by Mary Connealy
  • File Size: 3389 KB
  • Print Length: 51 pages
  • Publisher: Shiloh Run Studios (October 6, 2014)
  • ASIN: B00NTI2YXG
Genre: Historical Romance
My rating: 4.5 of 5.0


New--The 12 Brides of Christmas! You're invited to a Christmas wedding...that is twelve of them!  Discover the joy of an old-fashioned Christmas romance with these twelve heart-warming stories. Brand-new stories from renowned inspirational fiction authors will take you into the heartland of historical America. Releasing each week starting October 6, you'll want to read all of them.

#1: The Advent Bride
Melanie Douglas is alone on the Nebraska plains, teaching school to get by. She finds a unique box with hidden drawers to use over the advent season to engage a young boy in his schooling. When Henry O’Keeffe sees a positive change in his son, he has to see for himself what this new teacher is doing.


Review:
Melanie is alone struggling to be a good teacher in a small community in 1875.  She gets a “bargain” of room rent with a bitter, but influential, woman in town who complains about the time she comes in and complains about every chore not being done properly. In addition her landlady continually threatens to get Melanie fired.

Melanie loves the children she teaches and does everything she can to help each one. Still, she is frustrated by seven year-old Simon who has lost his mother and constantly acts out in class. Melanie tries to speak to Simon’s father, Henry/Hank, but he insists that it is her job to find a way to control her students.

Melanie discovers an old box in her rented room and is able to engage the energetic boy in uncovering the puzzle and the prizes as an advent adventure. Even Hank is pulled into the after school activity, providing needed father and son time. Melanie and Hank develop a growing friendship which scares Hank. Then Melanie’s bitter landlady brings accusations that could be devastating.

Advent holds a special place in my heart so this title caught my eye. Melanie is a natural, lovely and patient young woman. I was rooting for her from the very start until the end of the story.  I loved the advent box element and made a note that I want the box and contents.  Ms. Connealy is able to share a gentle faith through her cute, sweet love stories. If you haven’t read any of her titles yet this would be a quick read to get a nice taste of her fine writing. This is a very quick and charming read.

I received this title from the publisher through NetGalley for an honest review.
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Sunday, December 28, 2014

It's Monday! What are You Reading? Plus Mailbox Monday December 29, 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 hope everyone had as nice a week as I did. This was a great reading week with time to listen while wrapping presents and doing chores. We had a good Christmas morning with the children then a quiet day that was lovely.

Reading was very engaging.  I finished four books and posted four reviews. I also posted my usual memes. 

I visited a good group of sites again early in the week. Though I had hoped to do more during the holiday that didn't happen.
Thanks as always to all the nice people who visit me.

These were last week's posts:
Finished Reading:
1. eBook/Kindle



A Christmas Hope (Of Love and War)
by Stacy Henrie
This was a warm story. The review is linked above.
Click on book title for full description.




2. eBook/Kindle


The Genome: A Novel
by Sergei Lukyanenko
This is very engaging - first as sci fi, then as mystery.
My review is linked above.
Click on book title for full description.




3. eBook/Kindle


The Advent Bride (The 12 Brides of Christmas)
by Mary Connealy
This is a charming read. I will post the review this week.
New--The 12 Brides of Christmas! You're invited to a Christmas wedding...that is twelve of them!  Discover the joy of an old-fashioned Christmas romance with these twelve heart-warming stories. Brand-new stories from renowned inspirational fiction authors will take you into the heartland of historical America. Releasing each week starting October 6, you'll want to read all of them.

#1: The Advent Bride
Melanie Douglas is alone on the Nebraska plains, teaching school to get by. She finds a unique box with hidden drawers to use over the advent season to engage a young boy in his schooling. When Henry O’Keeffe sees a positive change in his son, he has to see for himself what this new teacher is doing.



4. Audio/MP4


Dreamer's Pool: Blackthorn & Grim, Book 1
Written by: Juliet Marillier
Narrated by: Scott Aiello, Natalie Gold, Nick Sullivan
I found this really remarkable.
I received this title through Audiobook Jukebox.
I will post review this week.
Click on book title for full description.




Currently reading:
1. eBook/Kindle


A Most Inconvenient Marriage
(Ozark Mountain Romance Book #1)
by Regina Jennings
I am enjoying this fun historical romance which I received through NetGalley.
Book Description
Publication Date: November 25, 2014
Abigail Stuart Thought She was Jeremiah Calhoun's Widow.
But Jeremiah Calhoun Is Very Handsome, Very Alive, and Very Perplexed.
Most Inconvenient Indeed.
With few options of her own, nurse Abigail Stuart agrees to marry her patient, a gravely wounded soldier calling himself Jeremiah Calhoun. They arrange a quick ceremony before he dies, giving Abigail the rights to his Ozark farm and giving Jeremiah the peace of knowing someone will care for his ailing sister after he's gone--a practical solution for both of them.
After the war, Abigail fulfills her side of the bargain--until the real Jeremiah Calhoun shows up, injured but definitely alive, and wastes no time in challenging Abigail's story. Abigail is flummoxed. After months of claiming to be his widow, how can she explain that she's never seen this Jeremiah Calhoun before? How can she convince him that she isn't trying to steal his farm? And will she find a way to stay, even though this practical arrangement has turned into a most inconvenient marriage?



2. Audible/MP4



25 Perfect Days
Written by: Mark Tullius
Narrated by: Dave Thompson
This world is a Dystopian nightmare.
I received this audio from Audiobook Jukebox.
Publisher's Summary
Will you follow The Way or be crushed by the Controllers?
A totalitarian state doesn't just happen overnight. It's a slow, dangerous slide. 25 Perfect Days chronicles the path into a hellish future of food shortages, contaminated water, sweeping incarceration, an ultra-radical religion, and the extreme measures taken to reduce the population. Through 25 interlinked stories, each written from a different character's point of view, 25 Perfect Days captures the sacrifice, courage, and love needed to survive and eventually overcome this dystopian nightmare.
©2013 Mark Tullius (P)2014 Mark Tullius



3. eBook/Kindle


Only Enchanting, A Survivors' Club Novel
by Mary Balogh
I am looking forward to reading this novel by one of my favorite authors.
Book Description
Publication Date: October 28, 2014
The Survivors' Club: Six men and one woman, all wounded in the Napoleonic Wars, their friendship forged during their recovery at Penderris Hall in Cornwall. Now, in the fourth novel of the Survivors' Club series, Flavian, Viscount Ponsonby, has left this refuge to find his own salvation—in the love of a most unsuspecting woman.…

Flavian, Viscount Ponsonby, was devastated by his fiancée’s desertion after his return home. Now the woman who broke his heart is back—and everyone is eager to revive their engagement. Except Flavian, who, in a panic, runs straight into the arms of a most sensible yet enchanting young woman.

Agnes Keeping has never been in love—and never wishes to be. But then she meets the charismatic Flavian, and suddenly Agnes falls so foolishly and so deeply that she agrees to his impetuous proposal of marriage.

When Agnes discovers that the proposal is only to avenge his former love, she’s determined to flee. But Flavian has no intention of letting his new bride go, especially now that he too has fallen so passionately and so unexpectedly in love.



4. eBook/Kindle


Shopping for Time: How to Do It All and NOT Be Overwhelmed
Carolyn Mahaney (Author), Nicole Mahaney Whitacre (Author), Kristin Chesemore (Author), Janelle Bradshaw
This is the book I chose for my First read in 2015.
It is from my 2009 TBR Kindle list and
I am reading it as part of the 2014-15 Winter COYER challenge.
Book Description
Publication Date: June 26, 2007
Overwhelmed. Miserable. Exhausted. These are often the words that women use to describe their high-demand lifestyles. How are women who are always on the go expected to cope with the demands of work, family, and ministry?
Carolyn Mahaney and her three daughters, Nicole Whitacre, Kristin Chesemore, and Janelle Bradshaw, recognize the needs of Christian women today. Shopping for Time offers the solution to women who truly desire to glorify God with every use of their time.
These authors offer five tips to help ladies do it all without becoming overwhelmed: rise early, sit down, sit longer (occasionally), choose friends wisely, and take fifteen minutes. By weaving biblical principles of God's Word into these keys, these authors give women practical advice on how to fulfill-and excel in-their daily responsibilities.



I am carrying forward three ebook review titles I need to read in January. that still have Sci Fi  and Christmas titles that will run into January at the rate I am reading. :-) 
I have two reviews to complete so I am still up to date.


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 received one review titles and selected two titles at NetGalley.
I purchased three $.99 kindle titles this week. I might resolve to stop purchasing titles since I have so many already - but some are just so tempting. How does a book addict resist?
I added more free kindle titles to my library.

(Although I have gotten to a couple, I still have many author requests to consider and reply to.)

Are your mailbox and TBR piles blooming?

Review Titles
I received this book from the author with review request:

Starship Blackbeard 
by Michael Wallace
This is a military sci fi from an author whose work in other genres I have enjoyed.
I am looking forward to reading this in January.



I selected two titles from NetGalley because they are authors I like:

by RaeAnne Thayne
This one sounds like a Hallmark scenario. :-)



'Tis The Season: Under the Christmas Tree\Midnight Confessions\Backward Glance 
by Robyn Carr
I haven't read this author in years and this seasonal collection seemed like a good way to re-visit her work!






Won
None

Purchased

I purchased these three kindle titles for $.99 each:



Christmas in The Duke's Arms
Grace Burrowes, Carolyn Jewel, Miranda Neville, Shana Galen
Four Christmas novellas by authors I like.




Love Brings Us Home (Inspirational Romance Box Set): 
Seven Christian Romances Celebrating Faith and Family
Hallee Bridgeman, Valerie Comer, JoAnn Durgin, Kimberly Rae Jordan, Lynette Sowell, Staci Stallings, Debra Ullrick




After Armageddon
Brian L. Porter, Carole Gill
An anthology of tales by two good authors.


Free
Over the past week I downloaded** (**Note this means I have added them to my library to read "someday") 51 free Kindle titles again. Titles found linked through Bookbub, Bookfun, Ereader News Today, Free Par-tay, Inspired Reads, Pixel of Ink or Kindle ebooks.
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Sunday Words of Encouragement December 28, 2014

We had a short communion service today to prepare for 2015. Pastor asked us to remember, as we prepare for a new year, that God gives us strength for all our days. Deut 33:25. Pastor then described “Good Riddance Day” which he heard was being celebrated in New York. People are to write up a list of things they don't want to carry into 2015. Pastor asked us to write such things on prayer cards. The question being: What regrets, disappointments or bad habits do you want to put behind you, leaving them in 2014 and starting with a fresh slate? Also, he reminded us that, if we are like 80% of any crowd, we are among those who have someone to forgive. He encouraged us to do it now.

This is one of the songs from our Christmas Cantata.
I find it a nice song to finish this Christmas week of music sharing.
Bethlehem Calls
by NewSong
A Verse for Today:
Deuteronomy 33:25 NIV
25 The bolts of your gates will be iron and bronze,
and your strength will equal your days.

God, I seek you guidance and continued blessing as we prepare for another new year. Help me especially to do your Will and to spread the word of Your good deeds and Your gospel of salvation and grace.
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Saturday, December 27, 2014

Sharing Beyond Books #183 Comment Giveaway 12/27/2014

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

I hope everyone has had a really good week. I've had a lovely week even though I had to work most of Monday and Tuesday and the weather was wet, wet, wet. Wednesday I spent wrapping presents and Thursday we had a lovely, un-rushed Christmas brunch with our daughter, s-i-l and grandkids. Friday my DH actually took us shopping - a rare thing as he doesn't like the pre or post Christmas crowds. Today I did some cleaning in our RV as it looks like we will be trading it in soon. :-)

Thanks to everyone who commented last week.

I enjoyed seeing the books each of you are looking forward too. Some of them made me think of books I want to read too. One book was mentioned twice, Pirate's Alley by Suzanne Johnson, and JR Ward was mentioned twice.
~~~~

The Winner from SBB #182 comments is: #9 Di who can make a GC choice if international or book choice from the ARC/Review 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 #183 (One Question.)

Q1. Becky asks:  Of the past year, what is the greatest book you have read? 
A: I saved this question 'till the end so we could pick from all the books we have read through 2014. First - I interpret this question to refer to books read in 2014 not necessarily published in 2014. Second - "Greatest" could have different meanings. I read primarily for entertainment so I don't often read what some might call "great" literature. If I define "greatest" as most important, I would have to pick The Harbinger by Jonathan Cahn. However, for this question, I chose to define "greatest" as "favorite". My favorite for the year was a surprise to me and the book I just finished! The Dreamer's Pool Audiobook is excellent entertainment and hard to set aside! I will post the review this coming week. 

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.
The questions in December were shared by: Rubynreba, Nikki, Elizabeth and Becky. Random.org picked #4: Becky.

Your turn to share:

Q1. Becky asks: Of the past year, what is the greatest book you have read??

SBB Comment Winners can choose a selection from the Valentine and "Love" books or the June 2013 Newly Updated ARC/Review List. (My daughter pulled several of the Christmas titles to give with gift bags we made up for the nursing homes. I have to go back and update that list with what is left and a few new titles to add.)

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 January 3, 2015 at 5 PM  central.
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Book Review: The Genome: A Novel by Sergei Lukyanenko

This is a very engaging read combining Sci Fi and Mystery genres.
The Genome: A Novel
by Sergei Lukyanenko
  • File Size: 719 KB
  • Print Length: 496 pages
  • Publisher: Open Road Media Sci-Fi & Fantasy (December 2, 2014)
  • ASIN: B00NX8U3J4
Genre: Sci Fi, Mystery
My Rating: 4.5 of 5.0


Book Description
Publication Date: December 2, 2014
A science fiction thriller by the author of Night Watch, the hit novel that inspired two major motion pictures
Five months after the horrific accident that left him near death and worried that he’d never fly again, master-pilot Alex Romanov lands a new job: captaining the sleek passenger vessel Mirror. Alex is a spesh—a human who has been genetically modified to perform particular tasks. As a captain and pilot, Alex has a genetic imperative to care for passengers and crew—no matter what the cost.
His first mission aboard Mirror is to ferry two representatives of the alien race Zzygou on a tour of human worlds. His task will not be an easy one, for aboard the craft are several speshes who have reason to hate the Others. Dark pasts, deadly secrets, and a stolen gel-crystal worth more than Alex’s entire ship combine to challenge him at every turn. And as the tension escalates, it becomes apparent that greater forces are at work to bring the captain’s world crashing down.


Review:
Master-Pilot Alex finds himself recuperating on an industrial planet station. As a pilot-spesh it is in his nature to lead and help others which causes him to take a young teen girl under his wing. He can tell from her looks and behavior that Kim is about to go through the metamorphosis that will change her into whatever specialty was coded in her genes before birth. He cannot allow her to do this alone on the streets as he is concerned that she will die.

Alex is fortunate to land a great job that allows him to pick his own six member team: two pilots, a navigator, an engineer, a doctor and a fighter. He pulls together an interesting crew, including Kim as the fighter-spesh. Only one of the six is a natural human who was not designed and trained with a particular specialty. There is a little animosity and tension as the crew comes together. The tensions intensify when they learn the first mission is to transport three passengers, two Zzygous and their clone escort. These aliens are considered ‘Others’ and uneasy enemies to humans, including the doctor-spesh, Janet, who is trying hard to control her tendencies to hate and destroy that alien race. The navigator, the natural human in the crew, is vocal regarding his bigotry against clones.

No sooner does the flight begin when there is a near collision that appears to be an attempt to kill the ship, crew or the passengers. Alex manages to settle everyone and the trip proceeds comfortably until a savage murder occurs that could trigger intergalactic war. Alex, as Captain of the ship, feels responsible for everyone aboard. He pieces together the clues to find the murderer at the same time as a famous detective interviews each of the suspects.

I found the first half of the book to be an amazing sci fi world with unique characters. Kim has secrets that add to the engaging story. It is quickly clear that the practice of creating speshes has its benefits and difficulties. Mid-way the murder occurs and the story jumps into a takeoff of famous detectives. This provided entertaining humor intertwined with philosophical questions regarding the benefits and stability of chosen speshes versus freedom to choose one’s own destiny and freedom to experience all emotions.

The leap from sci fi to mystery was a bizarre twist. I was engrossed in the sci fi elements and felt jolted when the focus clearly shifted. However, I then enjoyed the Sherlock Holmes' methodology of disclosing details to uncover the murderer. The mystery was satisfactorily wrapped up but there were a few loose ends in the future of the characters. There is a free attitude towards sexual partners that I didn’t care for but it fits the character personalities.

This book kept me up late wanting to know where the story would go! It is well written and read very quickly for a longer book. I highly recommend this to sci fi lovers and to mystery lovers too.

I received this from the publisher through NetGalley for an honest review.
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Christmas Sharing Little Drummer Boy

As I was looking at Christmas videos I came upon this.
Isn't it wonderful?
Not only is it beautifully done but the song reminds us that we He is pleased when we bring 
the smallest, simplest gifts offered with a humble heart.
Little Drummer Boy 
by Pentatonix 
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Friday, December 26, 2014

Book Review: A Christmas Hope (Of Love and War) by Stacy Henrie

This is a charming historical romance novella.
  • File Size: 331 KB
  • Print Length: 133 pages
  • Publisher: Forever Yours (December 2, 2014)
  • Sold by: Hachette Book Group
  • ASIN: B00M7D0E2M
Genre: Historical Romance
My Rating: 4.25 of 5.0


Book Description
Publication Date: December 2, 2014
In this special holiday novella, Stacy Henrie returns to the World War I setting of her Of Love and War series for a heartwarming read that's perfect for the Christmas season.
TIS THE SEASON FOR SECOND CHANCES
Having experienced the heartache of unrequited love, Maria Schmitt desperately seeks a new life. Landing a position as a clerk in a Sioux City bank is just what she needs to get started on her journey toward healing. But a dashing stranger soon puts her job-and her heart-in jeopardy.
Saving lives was all Dale Emerson ever wanted to do . . . until a fateful day in France shattered his career as a surgeon. He lost everything that mattered, and the last thing he wants to do is resign himself to a life without medicine working at his uncle's bank. Then he meets Maria, a compassionate woman who can see past his scars to the man he once was-and the man he could be again. With Christmas right around the corner, these two wounded hearts may find that hope and a little holiday cheer are just the ticket to letting go of regrets-and embracing a future full of love and possibility.


Review:
Maria left home heartbroken over an unrequited love. She was looking for a new start and was fortunate to get a position as a bank clerk in Sioux City working under a kind manager. She has worked hard and earned the respect of the people and her work peers. She is intent on not giving her heart again until she is certain her feelings are returned.

Dale Emerson trained as a surgeon and went off to France to help at the war hospitals. He was glad to do his work helping others until bomb schrapnel took out one eye. He is frustrated when he returns home to Sioux City to take over the bank management from his sick Uncle. Dale doesn’t think he has much to offer now that he can no longer serve in the prestigious position of a surgeon.

These two meet at the bank with a misunderstanding to set things on a wrong foot. Slowly a friendship grows but both are tentative. Further misunderstandings and delay in speaking cause conflict that threatens their relationship. Can they reach beyond their past dissapointments, hurts and fears to find a new start together?

This is a sweet, warm story with two very likable and vulnerable characters. The relationship grows naturally, with misunderstandings, fits and starts. I enjoyed the WWI social and war history that the author portrays as the setting to the romance. I also liked the gentle reminders of faith and forgiving one's own mistakes.  This is a quick, easy read and I do recommend this author for lovely, clean, historical romance.

I received this from Forever through NetGalley for an honest review.
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Christmas Sharing Day After Christmas

Day After Christmas
by Matthew West
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