It's Monday! What are You Reading? Plus Mailbox Monday April 13, 2015

This meme starts at Book Journey! In case anyone is not aware, Sheila's younger son, Justin, was killed in an accident on April 4. Right now the family is dealing with the tragedy and their grief. I am not sure when she will get back to setting up IMWAYR links. Meanwhile my prayers continue for her family.


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 had a good work week with a couple of small closings and preparing for a big closing next week. I finished the week working on taxes to be filed next week. I was finalizing records Saturday and didn't even think until I came home that I hadn't posted a review during the day. 

I enjoyed my reading last week although I only finished one audio and one eBook.  I posted three reviews (one with a giveaway) so I stayed up to date. I also posted the usual memes. :-)

I visited blogs early in the week and I did get to visit a bit more late 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? Plus Mailbox Monday April 6, 2015.

• Book Review: A Hope Remembered by Stacy Henrie; Historical Romance, WWI; my rating 4.25

• Audible Book Review: The Maze Runner: Maze Runner, Book 1 by James Dashner; Teens, Thriller; my rating 4.0. 

• Martha's Bookshelf***Friday Pick Giveaway April 10, 2015. Open Worldwide. Ends 4/16/2015.

• Audio Book Review: All Our Yesterdays by Cristin Terril; Teen, Sci Fi Thriller; my rating 4.0.

• Sharing Beyond Books #198 Comment Giveaway 4/11/15; Open Worldwide. Ends 4/18/2015.

• Sunday Words of Encouragement April 12, 2015 - Happy Resurrection Day.

Finished Reading:

1. Audible/MP4

Dog Tags
Written by: David Rosenfelt
Narrated by: Grover Gardner
I really enjoyed this plot and the humor.
Click on book title for full description.

2. eBook/Kindle

Before the Scarlet Dawn: Daughters of the Potomac - Book 1
by Rita Gerlach
We read this for Ladies' Book Club. It had good points and not so good issues. I will post a review this week. 
Click on book title for full description.

I did watch two books made into movies this week too: 
The Mortal Instruments: City of Bones
City of Bones (The Mortal Instruments Book 1) by Cassandra Clare -- I read the third book, City of Glass. I certainly wish I had read book 1 as it would have helped me understand book 3 better.

Ender's Game
Ender's Game (The Ender Quartet series Book 1) by Orson Scott Card -- I read this maybe 10 or more years ago at the encouragement of my son. I never did get around to reading the sequels and had been thinking I should re-read book 1. I enjoyed the movie which helped me remember the book.

Currently reading:
1. eBook/Kindle

Shadow Study (Soulfinders)
by Maria V. Snyder
I am 60% along on this adventure and enjoying the danger.
I hope to post the review this week.
Click on book title for full description.

2. Audible/ MP4

Blood for Ink: The Scarlet Plumiere Series, Book 1
Written by: L. L. Muir
Narrated by: Jim McCance
I selected this through AudioBook Jukebox 
because it sounded like fun.
I am really enjoying it!
Publisher's Summary
If he unmasks her, she's as good as dead....
As the mysterious writer who exposes gentlemen's secrets, it is not the first time The Scarlet Plumiere has been hunted. But this time it's different. This time, she interferes with one of the Four Kings, and the brotherhood will not rest until they marry her off and place her securely under a man's thumb. Only they have to catch her first.
The Earl of Northwick is falling for this writer, sight unseen. Will she be pretty? Will she have all her teeth? In his rush to claim her for himself, regardless of who she might ultimately be, he places her in grave danger - her desperate enemies are watching closely for the moment her mask is removed.
Blood for Ink is a full-length Regency romance and is the first of four novels in The Scarlet Plumiere Series. The sequel is Bones for Bread and an excerpt is included at the end of Blood for Ink.
©2012 Lesli Muir Lytle (P)2012 Lesli Muir Lytle

3. eBook/Kindle

The Fire Sermon
by Francesca Haig
I am looking forward to this book I received through NetGalley.
Book Description
Publication Date: March 10, 2015
The Hunger Games meets Cormac McCarthy’s The Road in this richly imagined first novel in a new post-apocalyptic trilogy by award-winning poet Francesca Haig.

Four hundred years in the future, the Earth has turned primitive following a nuclear fire that has laid waste to civilization and nature. Though the radiation fallout has ended, for some unknowable reason every person is born with a twin. Of each pair, one is an Alpha—physically perfect in every way; and the other an Omega—burdened with deformity, small or large. With the Council ruling an apartheid-like society, Omegas are branded and ostracized while the Alphas have gathered the world’s sparse resources for themselves. Though proclaiming their superiority, for all their effort Alphas cannot escape one harsh fact: Whenever one twin dies, so does the other.

Cass is a rare Omega, one burdened with psychic foresight. While her twin, Zach, gains power on the Alpha Council, she dares to dream the most dangerous dream of all: equality. For daring to envision a world in which Alphas and Omegas live side-by-side as equals, both the Council and the Resistance have her in their sights.

I am reading The One Year Bible again along with my husband and others from our church. I am also listening to the companion commentary online. -- Really enjoying my Bible reading. It seems my eyes are open to more details and meaning. To go a step beyond the Bible reading I am also reading Jesus Daily 365 Interactive Devotions.

April Scheduled -
4/23/15 Fringe Benefits by Sandy James Blog Tour Review
4/28/15 Sinfully Yours (The Hellions of High Street) by Cara Elliott Blog Tour Blitz
4/30/15 The Brass Giant: A Chroniker City Story by Brooke Johnson Blog Tour

I am still focusing on reading NetGalley titles and TBR titles for the next couple of months.

I posted three reviews last week so I am still up to date. :-)
I am (very) slowly reading the waiting NetGalley titles in between the new ones.

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 two audio review titles, one print win book and selected two Audibles with credits..
I downloaded more free kindle titles to my library.
(Although I have gotten to a couple, I still have many author requests, old and new ones, to consider and reply to.)
 Are your mailbox and TBR piles blooming?

Review Titles

I received two audio books from AudioBook Jukebox:

Blood for Ink: The Scarlet Plumiere Series, Book 1
Written by: L. L. Muir
Narrated by: Jim McCance
I selected this through AudioBook Jukebox because it sounded like fun.
See the full description above under current reading.

Trident's First Gleaming: 
A Special Operations Group Thriller
Written by: Stephen Templin
Narrated by: Brian Troxell
Former SEAL Chris Paladin leaves SEAL Team Six to become a pastor, but CIA spook Hannah Andrade pulls him back into Special Operations Group, the ultra-secret unit...

Won

Another book I won From Mary's Bookfan:

The Bookseller: A Novel
by Cynthia Swanson
"A provocative and hauntingly powerful debut novel reminiscent of Sliding Doors, The Bookseller follows a woman in the 1960s who must reconcile her reality with the tantalizing alternate world of her dreams."
This is hardcover no less - I haven't had one of these in a while. :-)
Thank you Mary and Cynthia.

Purchased

I selected these two audible titles with my March credits - they both had high ratings and look very interesting!
Stolen Songbird
Written by: Danielle L. Jensen
Narrated by: Eric Michael Summerer, Erin Moon
"As Ccile becomes involved in the intricate political games of Trollus, she becomes more than a farmer's daughter. She becomes a princess, the hope of a people, and a witch with magic powerful enough to change Trollus forever."

Predator One: A Joe Ledger Novel

Written by: Jonathan Maberry

Narrated by: Ray Porter
"Joe Ledger and his team begin a desperate search for the secret to this new technology and the madmen behind it. But before they can close in, the enemy virus infects Air Force One. The president is trapped aboard as the jet heads toward the heart of New York City. It has become Predator One."

Free

Over the past week I added only 44 free Kindle titles to my library. Titles found linked through Bookbub, Bookfun, Ereader News Today, Free Par-tay, Ignite Your Book, Inspired Reads, Pixel of Ink or Kindle ebooks.

Sunday Words of Encouragement April 12, 2015

Our Sunday School teacher had gone with another friend to visit Pastor E in Haiti. Our Band of Brothers, consisting of about 20 men from 7 different churches, has been contributing to help Pastor E build a church. The local representatives said they were received warmly and treated like visiting royalty which embarrassed them. Fortunately one of the pair speaks French (another piece of God’s orchestration) so he was able to interpret during the visit. The report we received this morning was good news indicating that the nearby Voodoo worshippers have been backing off in response to the show of God’s work and power through the support of American brothers and sisters. Pastor E and the growing congregation ask for prayers and financial assistance.

Haiti is a very poor country and has few resources left after stripping its own forests and suffering damage from hurricanes and earthquakes. The area we are supporting is a good four hours away from Port of Prince which gets most of the financial aid and mission attention. Our American men are determining the best way to get the supplies there to build the church, at which time we expect to have a wonderful mission trip!

We had lovely praise and worship singing in service and a good message from our Pastor that I will save for another day.

We sang this song in worship this morning and I loved the words so I located a version to share.

Forever - We Sing Hallelujah by Kari Jobe.

(There is another version showing the live performance at this link.

A Verse for Today:
1 Corinthians 15:55 (NIV)
55 “Where, O death, is your victory?
    Where, O death, is your sting?”

I am so thankful that God's LOVE overcame the power of death! Lord, help us to show Your love daily to others.

Sharing Beyond Books #198 Comment Giveaway April 11, 2015

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

I hope everyone is having a lovely spring and good weather. We did have showers today but the trees are growing and flowers blooming.

Thanks to everyone who commented last week.

Six people do not participate in a sport and three others didn't say. The most popular sports for us are swimming (5) then walking/hiking (3). Other sports mentioned were running, volley ball, golfing, mini-golf, badminton and bike riding.
Sports we like to watch include the Olympics (4), Hockey (our Canadian friends! 4), Gymnastics (2), football (2), baseball, cricket, tennis, horses/jumpers, soccer and ice skating. Nice variety and it is interesting that the selections are a bit regional. :-)

~~~~

The Winner from SBB #197 comments is: #4 Carol L who can make a GC choice if international or book choice from the Updated ARC/Review titles or (not yet updated) Love titles - all linked near the end of the post. I'm hoping to update the book choices this week. Please let me know your choice by completing the (new) WINNER FORM.

WEEK #198 (One Question.)

Q1. nrlymrtl asks: Several of my friends/family have had their taste in entertainment change as they age; i.e. no longer enjoying action movies. Have you noticed a significant change in your reading tastes as your age??

A: This is a good question and I have to say "Yes, I think so". I find myself reading at least as many sci fi and action stories now as romance.  I also find I prefer to pick romance with suspense, mystery or history... although I can still enjoy some small town romances too.

Image found at Everything Teaching! Pinterest

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. nrlymrtl asks: Have you noticed a significant change in your reading tastes as your age??

SBB Comment Winners can choose a selection from the  Valentine and "Love" books or the February 2015 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 still 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 April 18, 2015 at 5 PM  central.

Audio Book Review: All Our Yesterdays by Cristin Terril

This is an engaging and fascinating time paradox tale.

All Our Yesterdays
by Cristin Terril
Narrated by Meredith Mitchell

Length: 9 hrs and 25 mins 
Unabridged Audiobook
Release Date:03-18-14
Publisher: Tantor Audio
Genre: Listed as Suspense but could be considered Sci FI
My Rating 4.0 of 5.0

Book Description
Publication Date: September 3, 2013
| Age Level: 12 - 18 | Grade Level: 7 - 12
"You have to kill him." 
Imprisoned in the heart of a secret military base, Em has nothing except the voice of the boy in the cell next door and the list of instructions she finds taped inside the drain. Only Em can complete the final instruction. She's tried everything to prevent the creation of a time machine that will tear the world apart. She holds the proof: a list she has never seen before, written in her own hand. Each failed attempt in the past has led her to the same terrible present—imprisoned and tortured by a sadistic man called the doctor while war rages outside. Marina has loved her best friend James since the day he moved next door when they were children. A gorgeous, introverted science prodigy from one of America's most famous families, James finally seems to be seeing Marina in a new way, too. But on one disastrous night, James's life crumbles apart, and with it, Marina's hopes for their future. Now someone is trying to kill him. Marina will protect James, no matter what. Even if it means opening her eyes to a truth so terrible that she may not survive it. At least not as the girl she once was. All Our Yesterdays is a wrenching, brilliantly plotted story of fierce love, unthinkable sacrifice, and the infinite implications of our every choice.

Review:
Marina is a young teen who loves the wealthy, genius boy next door, James. As a prodigy James has few friends. Marina has always stuck with him even as he struggled through his growing phases and through the death of his parents. He also has a best friend, Finn, who has hung with him at their private school. James has been raised by his older brother who is a U.S. Senator being prepared as a possible future president. James goal is to help the world be a better place.

James was mocked by many classmates as a social misfit far above his years in brilliance. As he matures he finally grows into his body and all the girls are after him even though they are still in high school and he has moved onto college levels and private mentoring. Marina has loved James for so long she can’t imagine not being with him. She puts up with Finn because he is James friend and she will do whatever it takes to support James. She is excited when it appears that James is finally seeing her as more than the “kid-sister’ neighbor girl except the night ends in tragedy.

In the future, Em and Finn are adjacent cells n a military prison where they resist against ‘the Doctor’ and ‘the Director’. They are subjected to repeated deprivations and tortures because they refuse to give up Em's hiding place for highly important scientific notes regarding a time machine. The creation of the machine has created a totalitarian government with restricted freedoms resulting in rebellion.

Em uncovers a cryptic message that says “You have to kill him”. Apparently she has gone back in time before as this is the fourteenth message on the paper with all the other alternatives having been crossed off. Em and Finn escape with help from a surprising source. Now they must plan how and when to end the nightmare that they have lived for the past four years. And Em has to determine if she can kill to protect those she loves the most.

This is a very engaging and fascinating time paradox tale. The author changes time and viewpoints from Em in the future/present and Marina in the past. This makes for a very interesting blend and kept me engaged as I learned the characters and their histories. The time travel created opportunities to ponder the consequences and options. There were a few details that some might say violate the paradox rules of time travel. But since it is fiction the author gets to make the rules, right? There were times when I didn’t like Marina’s insecure and clingy character (not to mention teenage angst) and I was glad she matured into a stronger person. I suspected the twist before it was revealed but I still thought it was really well plotted. I recommend this to readers who like the twists created by time travel dilemmas.

Audio Notes: Meredith Mitchell did a good job with the narration. The characters were distinguishable and the emotions, danger and intensity are carried through the narration. I enjoyed the story through the audio presentation.

I received this title through Audio Sync 2014. It was paired with the classic JULIUS CAESAR by William Shakespeare, which I may have to listen to just to clarify the pairing. This qualifies for Audio Challenge, TBR Double Dare and TBR.

Martha's Bookshelf***Friday Pick Giveaway April 10, 2015

Happy Friday once again! I've had another busy work week with some planned tasks and some new assignments. We attended a very nice Chamber Banquet tonight with some friends. I'm enjoying my reading this week and hope you out there in blogging world are too! 

TO ENTER:

US Entrants: Leave a comment and tell me WHICH BOOK you would like to get from the Friday Pick lists.
INTERNATIONAL: Leave a comment indicating "Gift Card" (see further comments near the end of the post.)

CUT OFF TIME IS THURSDAY NIGHTS AT 9:00 PM CENTRAL so I do not have to stay up to late 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 without other people asking for that book during those weeks.

Thank you to all who entered the April 3 Pick. We are back to reasonable auto win this week with only one.  (Automatic winners are those who requested the book four times and I did not note other people asking for that book during those weeks.) There were two titles blocked.
Carol L gets The Elusive Flame

CONGRATULATIONS
to Random.org picked Winners from April 3 Pick:
Mariska gets a GC

Elizabeth also gets a GC

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

April Showers mean time to stay inside and read!

Image found Pinterest (the books in the display offer rainyday activities).

New Book Group #56 March 20, 2015
(I'll try to get the rest linked another day.)

PAIRS:
Dick Francis: A Jockey's Life and Proof (spine creases)
Catherine Lanigan: Tender Malice and Elusive Love (spine creases)
Parent Trap Anthology, Dallas Schulze, Lisa Jackson, Kasey Michaels
Madison Avenue Marriage (Silhouette Desire #129) by Cassandra Bishop
The Sweetheart Dance by Patti Ann Colt
Ain't Myth-Behaving by Kate MacAlister
Death at Play by Nancy Gotter Gates
Where is He Now? by Jennifer Greene
Raintree Haunted by Linda Winstead Jones (spine creases)
Aphrodite's Secret by Julie Kenner
Virtually His by Gennita Low
Dead Even by Brad Metzger
Mommy Midwife by Cassie Miles
Dear John by Nicholas Sparks


New Book Group #55 February 5, 2015
(I'll try to get the rest linked another day.)

PAIRS:
Virginia Henley: The Pirate and the Pagan (spine creases) and The Falcon and the Flower
James Patterson: London Bridges and Roses are Red (both spine creases)
SINGLES:
Pale Kings and Princes by Robert Parker Audio Cassette Tapes
Hour Game by David Baldacci (spine creases)
If I Had You by Deborah Bedford
The Girl With the Golden Spurs by Ann Major
Can't Take My Eyes Off of You by Kasey Michaels
Dark Possession by Christine Feehan
Daisy's Back in Town by Rachel Gibson
The Man Who Ate the 747 by Ben Sherwood
Paradise Bay by James Michael Pratt
The Last Two Bachelors by Debbie Macomber
Exclusive Anthology by Fiona Hood-Stewart, Sharon Kendrick and Jackie Braun
Duets Romantic Comedy: Lady and the Scamp by Candy Halliday & The Doctor Dilemma by Dianne Drake

New Book Group #54 December 26, 2014

PAIRS:
Lisa Gardner: Alone and Gone
Janet Evanovich: Eleven on Top and Twelve Sharp
Stuart Wood: L.A. Dead and Fresh Disasters
SINGLES:
Ender’s Shadow by Orson Scott Card - Tape Cassettes
New Blood by Gail Dayton
Except the Dying by Maureen Jennings
To Collar a Killer by Lee Charles Kelley
Dead I Well May Be by Adrian McKinty
‘Til There Was You by Elizabeth Ann Michaels
The Ladies’ Lunch by Patricia O’Brien
Wild Winds by Janelle Taylor
Shrink Rap by Robert B. Parker - Tape Cassettes
Rescue Me Anthology by Cherry Adair, Lora Leigh and Cindy Gerard


BOX 4 2015 (reboxed from Boxes 47-53)

The Secret Life of Bees by Sue Monk Kidd
The Hidden Truth of Cytech's Randall Forty byVickie Kennedy
First to Fight Anthology
Jezebel by Katherine Sutcliff
The Awakening and Selected Short Stories by Kate Chopin
Maybe This Time by Victoria Barrett
The Commander by Kate Bridges
The Cinderella Plan by Margaret Daley
The Mr. & Mrs. Happy Handbook by Steve Doocy
A Garden of Friends by Penny Pierce Rose
Intrepid Encounter by Rebecca Ashley
A Stranger's Wife by Maggie Osborne
Richard Paul Evans PAIR: The Looking Glass and The Carousel
Duo Book: Yesterday's Memories by Tara Taylor Quinn and Amanda Stevens
At The Stroke of Madness by Alex Kava
Undateable by Ellen Rakieten & Anne Coyle
Catherine Anderson PAIR: Seventh Heaven and Always in My Heart
Queen of Babble Gets Hitched by Meg Cabot
Sleeping with Ward Cleaver by Jenny Gardiner


BOX 3 2015 (reboxed from Boxes 39- 47)

Touched by Fire by Kathleen O'Reilly
Shetland Summer by Janet Lynnford
It All Began at Monte Carlo by Elizabeth Adler
Breakfast in Bed by Sandra Brown - Audio Cassette Tapes (link is for mass media version)
Mariah Stewart PAIR: Priceless and Brown-Eyed Girl
Cattle Rancher, Secret Son by Margaret Way
Whisper on the Wind by Joan Smith
Fulfillment by Barbara Delinsky
Trouble Becomes Her by Laura Van Wormer
Remember Me by Mary Higgins Clark
Diana Palmer PAIR: Diamond Spur, Long Tall Texan
A Lady of Consequence by Mary Nichols
Sweet Talking Man by Betina Krain
Illegal Possession by Kay Hooper


BOX 2 2015 (reboxed from Boxes 24- 38)

Final Justice by Jasmine Cresswell
Thinner by Stephen King
Foundation (Foundation Novels) by Isaac Asimov
Mary Higgins Clark PAIR: Let Me Call You Sweetheart and Moonlight Becomes You (SC)
Magic: The Gathering Distant Planes, An Anthology
The Willful Widow by Valerie King (spine wear)
Dancing on Snowflakes by Jane Bonander
An Honorable Man by Rosemary Rogers (spine creases)
A Courtesans Guide to Getting Your Man by Susan Donovan and Celeste Bradley -- 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
Angel's Peak by Robyn Carr
The Millionaire's Daughter by Sophie Weston
Tara Taylor Quinn: Father: Unknown and McGillus v.Wright
The Trailsman: Texas Lead Slingers by Jon Sharpe
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.
Bride by Command by Linda Winstead Jones
Awaken the Senses by Nalini Singh


BOX #1 2015 (reboxed from Boxes 1- 23)

Circle of Stars by Anna Lee Waldo
The Woman Next Door by Barbara Delinsky
One Eye Closed by Karen Whiddon
The Darkroom by Minette Walters
The Elusive Flame by Kathleen Woodwiss
Prey by Michael Crichton - Audio Tape
On Treacherous Ground by Earl Murray
Alien Chronicles - The Crimson Claw by Deborah Chester
Nights of Rain and Stars by Maeve Binchy
McNally's Puzzle by Lawrence Sanders
The Undertaker's Widow by Phillip M. Margolin
The Da Vinci Code by Dan Brown
S is for Silence (Kinsey Millhone Mystery)
Tender Triumph by Judith McNaught
Ghost Writer (Shivers #3) by M.D. Spenser
Death Angel by Linda Howard

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 five+ years I have posted 54 groups of 16 (864) books to find new homes! (as of February 6, 2015).

I am happy to say that so far about 799+ 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. 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!

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 $7.00 and $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)

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!

Audible Book Review: The Maze Runner: Maze Runner, Book 1 by James Dashner

This is a sufficiently entertaining listen even with a few drawbacks.
The Maze Runner: Maze Runner, Book 1
Written by: James Dashner
Narrated by: Mark Deakins

Length: 10 hrs and 50 mins
Series: Maze Runner, Book 1
Unabridged Audiobook
Release Date:10-12-09
Publisher: Listening Library
Genre: Teens, Thriller
My Rating: 4.0 of 5.0 

Publisher's Summary
When Thomas wakes up in the lift, the only thing he can remember is his first name. His memory is blank. But he's not alone. When the lift's doors open, Thomas finds himself surrounded by kids who welcome him to the Glade - a large, open expanse surrounded by stone walls.
Just like Thomas, the Gladers don't know why or how they got to the Glade. All they know is that every morning the stone doors to the maze that surrounds them have opened. Every night they've closed tight. And every 30 days a new boy has been delivered in the lift.
Thomas was expected. But the next day, a girl is sent up - the first girl to ever arrive in the Glade. And more surprising yet is the message she delivers.
Thomas might be more important than he could ever guess. If only he could unlock the dark secrets buried within his mind.
©2009 James Dashner; (P)2009 Listening Library

Review:
Thomas wakes up in a boxed room with little memory. He is extracted by a group of boys, ages 12 to 17 or 18. They live in a community they call the Glade that is quartered with a garden area, stable/butcher area, living quarters and the delivery box. Every thirty days a new boy is delivered in the box and all the supplies the group needs for survival. Surrounding the Glade is a maze with stone doors that open each morning and close each night. Each boy has a skill and assigned tasks to help the group. Certain of the boys are runners - eight boys who run in pairs every day to map the maze looking for a way out.

The boys are reluctant to answer Thomas’s many questions but slowly he gains friends, including a rather clumsy young boy of 12. There is another teen boy that is very hostile and insists that he remembers Thomas and that he is an enemy.

Even having been shown the monstrous creature that lives in the maze, and having seen a boy tormented while recovering from injury by one of the monsters, Thomas is set on becoming a maze runner. It is explained that he has to prove himself first. He has to go through each job training to determine the best assignment.

Although Thomas arrived as expected the next day things go totally off schedule when a girl arrives with a message that she is the last one. Not only that but she states that everything is going to change right before she falls unconscious.

Thomas makes a forbidden choice that turns into a miraculous rescue. Some of the leaders want him punished for disobeying the rules while others want him promoted. His actions bring more worry and turmoil as the group learns that they are now in a race against time and the monsters if they want to survive.

It is clear that outside forces have been watching the boys. Their goals and motives are not so clear. As the book draws to a climax some horrors occur and secrets are revealed while other surprises are apparent to the reader but not to the characters. I suspect the ending will lead some to grab the next book and some maybe not.

When I first started listening it brought to mind The Lord of the Flies. However, as the work progresses it shows more similarities to the cruel control issues in The Hunger Games. I felt there was some slowness in the beginning with a bit of telling rather than showing. It gets better when the action picks up with discord and danger to the end. As an adult you have to be mindful that these characters are young teens so they don't think like adults. I recommend this to those who enjoy a fantasy/sci fi thriller built around society issues.

Audio Notes: Mark Deakins did a good job with the narration. I was able to keep track of the characters and I felt any pacing issues related to the story itself, not the narration. The audio enhanced my enjoyment of the story as it helped it move along beyond the slow parts.

This is from my own Audible Library. It qualifies for Audio Book Challenge and TBR Double Dare since I picked it up in 2014.

Book Review: A Hope Remembered (Of Love and War series Book 3) by Stacy Henrie

This is a lovely, sweet story of renewed hope found through gentle love.

A Hope Remembered (Of Love and War series Book 3)

by Stacy Henrie

• File Size: 725 KB
• Print Length: 384 pages
• Publisher: Forever (March 31, 2015)
• ASIN: B00LLIIZBG
• Genre: Historical Romance, WW1
• My Rating: 4.25 of 5.0

Book Description
Publication Date: March 31, 2015
AS THE WAR ENDS, LOVE BEGINS
Nora Lewis just wants an escape after losing her fiance in the Great War. When she inherits property in England, she boldly packs up and leaves America for a fresh start. But, if not for her dashing new neighbor, Colin Ashby, she'd be lost. Even as their friendship deepens, Nora knows a British aristocrat would never be free to love an American orphan, no matter how much the war has changed the world ...
 After his brother's death in the war and his own experiences as a pilot at the front, Colin returns home broken, only to discover his family's estate is also in ruin. The pressure is now on him to save his home and the Ashbys' place in society with a well-bred match to a wealthy heiress. Too bad he finds more of a kindred spirit in Nora, the beautiful American next door. She, too, has faced the rigors of war and survived. Now the ex-soldier will have one more battle to fight--this time for love.

Review:
Nora Lewis lost her parents and now has lost her fiancé in WW1. She is resigned to her future alone on her Idaho farm until she receives news that she has inherited a sheep farm in England.
She decides that God has provided this so she sells the farm and moves to England to find a new start. Nora is soon struck by the handsome looks and kind charm of her neighbor, Colin, who helps her locate and settle safely into her new property.

Colin is more than gracious considering he is the aristocratic heir of the largest estate in the community. Colin is a second son and had not expected to become the heir. He and his brother were pilots in the War but Christian died and Colin survived. Before his death, Christian had Colin promise to take care of the family estate if anything happened to him. Now their father has explained that the family has money problems and Colin must help by marry a wealthy heiress and obtaining Nora’s land for a hotel investment. Colin is torn between the new friendship and feelings he has for Nora and the promise and duty he has to his family.

Nora never expected to find new dreams for love and family but she senses she could fall for Colin. She has forged ahead in the community to take her place among the sheep herders and she is pleased that she has been readily accepted. Except that several people seem to confuse her with someone named Eleanor, whom she never knew. Also, someone wants her gone and is causing destruction to her home and garden to try to scare her away.

There is an obvious conflict of hearts and trust for both the lead characters. The two light mysteries, the mistaken identity and the threats, add interest to the story. The setting is rich and beautifully portrayed with details of the green countryside, sheep herding and even an ancient castle. The romance is sweet and develops in spite of the reluctance and fear of the participants. I especially enjoyed Nora’s strong determination and faith that was picked up by Colin when he most needed it.

I enjoyed the book although I didn’t feel completely pulled in as I did by Hope Rising, Book 2 in the series. Still it is a lovely read and I do recommend this series for those who like clean, sweet romance in a strong historical setting.

I received this book from Hachette/Forever through NetGalley for blog tour and an honest review. It qualifies for NetGalley Challenge.

It's Monday! What are You Reading? Plus Mailbox Monday April 6, 2015

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 had a nice week; working but not stressful. The weekend has been quiet. 

I enjoyed my reading last week finishing two audios and one eBook. I posted three reviews (one with a giveaway) so I stayed up to date. I also posted the usual memes. :-)

I visited blogs early in the week and I did get to visit a bit more late 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? Plus Mailbox Monday March 30, 2015.

• MBS 2015 Reading List (to be updated during the year).

• Book Review and Giveaways: Scandalously Yours by Cara Elliott; Historical Romance; my rating 4.5. Rafflecopter ends 4/5; print US/Canada ends 4/10/15.

• Feature with Giveaway: A Hope Remembered by Stacy Henrie; Historical Romance. Rafflecopter ended. 

• Book Review and Giveaways: A Kiss to Build a Dream On (A White Pine Novel) by Kim Amos; Contemporary Romance, Small town; my rating 3.5. Rafflecopter ends 4/5; print US/Canada ends 4/11/15.

• Martha's Bookshelf***Friday Pick Giveaway April 3, 2015. Open Worldwide. Ends 4/9/2015.

• Audio Book Review: Quitter by Jon Acuff; Nonfiction; my rating 4.0.

• Sharing Beyond Books #197 Comment Giveaway 4/4/15; Open Worldwide. Ends 4/11/2015.

• Sunday Words of Encouragement April 5, 2015 - Happy Resurrection Day.

Finished Reading:

1. Audible

The Maze Runner: Maze Runner, Book 1
Written by: James Dashner
Narrated by: Mark Deakins
This is an interesting post apocalyptic story.
I will post a review this week.
Click on book title for full description.

2. eBook/Kindle

A Hope Remembered (Of Love and War series Book 3)
by Stacy Henrie
This is a lovely sweet story. 
I will post a review next week.
Click on book title for full description.

3. Audio

All Our Yesterdays
by Cristin Terril
Narrated by Meredith Mitchell
(Tantor Audio)
I enjoyed this time loop story which I received through Audio Sync 2014. 
I will post the review this week.
Book Description
Publication Date: September 3, 2013 | Age Level: 12 - 18 | Grade Level: 7 - 12
"You have to kill him." 
Imprisoned in the heart of a secret military base, Em has nothing except the voice of the boy in the cell next door and the list of instructions she finds taped inside the drain. Only Em can complete the final instruction. She's tried everything to prevent the creation of a time machine that will tear the world apart. She holds the proof: a list she has never seen before, written in her own hand. Each failed attempt in the past has led her to the same terrible present—imprisoned and tortured by a sadistic man called the doctor while war rages outside. Marina has loved her best friend James since the day he moved next door when they were children. A gorgeous, introverted science prodigy from one of America's most famous families, James finally seems to be seeing Marina in a new way, too. But on one disastrous night, James's life crumbles apart, and with it, Marina's hopes for their future. Now someone is trying to kill him. Marina will protect James, no matter what. Even if it means opening her eyes to a truth so terrible that she may not survive it. At least not as the girl she once was. All Our Yesterdays is a wrenching, brilliantly plotted story of fierce love, unthinkable sacrifice, and the infinite implications of our every choice.

Currently reading:
1. eBook/Kindle

Shadow Study (Soulfinders)
by Maria V. Snyder
I am enjoying revisiting Yelena and Valek
with all the intrigue and dangers they face.
I selected this at NetGalley.
Click on book title for full description.

2. Audible/MP4

Dog Tags
Written by: David Rosenfelt
Narrated by: Grover Gardner
I decided to listen to an author I like while I wait for a couple of new audio requests.
This is a book I picked up in January.
Publisher's Summary
A German Shepherd police dog witnesses a murder and if his owner - an Iraq war vet and former cop-turned-thief - is convicted of the crime, the dog could be put down.
Few rival Andy Carpenter's affection for dogs, and he decides to represent the poor canine. As Andy struggles to convince a judge that this dog should be set free, he discovers that the dog and his owner have become involved unwittingly in a case of much greater proportions than the one they've been charged with.
Andy will have to call upon the unique abilities of this ex-police dog to help solve the crime and prevent a catastrophic event from taking place.
David Rosenfelt, a native of Peterson, New Jersey, is a graduate of NYU. He was the former marketing president for Tri-Star Pictures before becoming a writer of novels and screenplays.
©2010 David Rosenfelt (P)2010 Listen & Live Audio, Inc.

3. eBook/Kindle

Before the Scarlet Dawn: Daughters of the Potomac - Book 1
by Rita Gerlach
I need to get this read for Ladies' Book Club.
Book Description
Publication Date: February 1, 2012
(INSPIRATIONAL HISTORICAL FICTION / HISTORICAL DRAMA)
In 1775, Hayward Morgan, a young gentleman destined to inherit his father's estate in Derbyshire, England, captures the heart of the local vicar's daughter, Eliza Bloome. Her dark beauty and spirited ways are not enough to win him, due to her station in life.

Circumstances throw Eliza in Hayward's path, and they flee to America to escape the family conflicts. But as war looms, it's a temporary reprieve. Hayward joins the revolutionary forces and what follows is a struggle for survival, a test of faith, and the quest to find lasting love in an unforgiving wilderness.

"Filled with true-to-life characters whose struggles will linger with readers long after the last page is turned, Before the Scarlet Dawn is a memorable story of Revolutionary War-era England and America." - Amanda Cabot, author of Summer of Promise"Rita Gerlach has written a colorful historical with a feisty heroine on a search for survival, romance, and a place to belong." Cynthia Hickey, author of the Summer Meadows mysteries
"Ms. Gerlach's unique literary prose has once again captured my heart with a stirring tale of love and loss, desperation and hope during one of the most uncertain times in American History--the Revolutionary War. I cannot wait for the next book in the series!" - MaryLu Tyndall, author of Surrender the Dawn"A stirring story of love and its consequences, Before the Scarlet Dawn will draw you in from the start and not let you go again." ~ Roseanna M. White, author of Love Finds You in Annapolis, Maryland and Jewel of Persia
"While reading Before the Scarlet Dawn, you'll travel back in time--and from England to Maryland--without ever leaving your easy chair! This is a big, beautiful, well-told story of love, faith, and the struggles of war that changed lives...and  hearts. I can't wait to read the next book in this series!" Loree Lough, best-selling author of more than 80 award-winning books, including reader favorite From Ashes to Honor

I am reading The One Year Bible again along with my husband and others from our church. I am also listening to the companion commentary online. -- Really enjoying my Bible reading. It seems my eyes are open to more details and meaning. To go a step beyond the Bible reading I am also reading Jesus Daily 365 Interactive Devotions.

April Scheduled -
4/7/15 A Hope Remembered by Stacy Henrie
4/11/15?  Ladies Book Club - Before the Scarlet Dawn, Daughters of the Potomac Series #1
4/23/15 Fringe Benefits by Sandy James Blog Tour Review
4/28/15 Sinfully Yours (The Hellions of High Street) by Cara Elliott Blog Tour Blitz
4/30/15 The Brass Giant: A Chroniker City Story by Brooke Johnson Blog Tour

I am still focusing on reading NetGalley titles and TBR titles for the next couple of months.

I posted three reviews last week, staying up to date. :-)
I am slowly reading the waiting NetGalley titles in between the new ones.

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 ebook and one print titles for review and I received one print win book.
I downloaded more free kindle titles to my library.
(Although I have gotten to a couple, I still have many author requests, old and new ones, to consider and reply to.)
 Are your mailbox and TBR piles blooming?

Review Titles

I received an ebook from a young author I met at EPICon and forgot to include before:
FORTUNE'S DETOUR: Prequel of THE DEKA SERIES
by Abigail Schwaig
I am looking forward to this YA fantasy Adventure.
Thank you Abigail!
"Meet Natalie Pryce- an artist at heart, constantly misunderstood by most of the people she knows. She has changed her career aspirations more times than she can count and feels like a grand failure at life. She is directionless until accidentally falling into an exciting relationship with David, a charming and expressive young man who is more than willing to live moment to moment with her. Life starts looking up, until, just her luck, disaster strikes, secrets are revealed, and Natalie is forced to flee for her life."

Received through Cadence for Review:

The Cancer Solution: Taking Charge of Your Life with Cancer
by Jack C. Westman M.D. M.S.
I felt this was one I should take a look at.
"A usable handbook for cancer for both patients and health professionals, The Cancer Solution empowers patients to take control of their life with cancer and advocate for improving cancer research and treatment."

Won

Won From Mary's Bookfan:

Going Gypsy: One Couple's Adventure from Empty Nest to No Nest at All
David James and Veronica James
This seemed like one I would like since my DH and I enjoy our RV although we still have a nest. 
"Pulling the rip cord on the daily grind, David and Veronica throw caution to the wind, quit their jobs, sell their house, put on their vagabond shoes, and go gypsy in a beat-up old RV found on eBay."

Purchased

I am continuing to resist making any purchases. :-)
I do expect to select two audible titles soon with my new credits.

Free

Over the past week I added 59 free Kindle titles to my library. Titles found linked through Bookbub, Bookfun, Ereader News Today, Free Par-tay, Ignite Your Book, Inspired Reads, Pixel of Ink or Kindle ebooks.

Sunday Words of Encouragement April 5, 2015 - Happy Resurrection Day!

We attended a different church this morning to be with our daughter, son-in-law and grandchildren. We greatly missed the worship and praise music from our church but we did enjoy the sermon.

The message focused around 1 Corinthians 15 and most specifically verses 16-17: 16 For if the dead are not raised, then Christ has not been raised either. 17 And if Christ has not been raised, your faith is futile; you are still in your sins.

The Pastor reaffirmed several times that the event was supernatural. He rebuked ridiculous arguments and theories such as Jesus was poisoned to appear dead but didn’t really die, there were mass hallucinations, there were visions, they had the wrong tomb. He noted that the witnesses of the women who arrived at the open grave was consistent with their knowledge. They were present when Jesus was buried and the stone rolled to close the grave. They were alarmed by the stone being rolled away and meeting an angel. If Christians wanted to make up a story of resurrection couldn’t they have a made a more realistic story instead of one that relies on women who weren’t accepted as witnesses in that culture? (From Dr. Sinclair B. Ferguson speaking on the authenticity of the Resurrection Story.)

The angel told the women ‘He is not here. He is Risen; go tell His disciples’. We are each responsible to do the same. We must believe that He is Risen in order to be Christian. If we believe, then we should go and tell others.

I came upon this song several months ago and set it aside for today!

Mercy Tree

Verses for Today:
Romans 6: 8-10 (NIV)
8 Now if we died with Christ, we believe that we will also live with him. 9 For we know that since Christ was raised from the dead, he cannot die again; death no longer has mastery over him. 10 The death he died, he died to sin once for all; but the life he lives, he lives to God.

I believe and thank God. Christ is Risen! He is Risen Indeed!

Sharing Beyond Books #197 Comment Giveaway April 4, 2015

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

Here we are in a new month, a new season and a new quarter of the year.  Time keeps marching along doesn't it?

Thanks to everyone who commented last week.

Comments were fairly well split last week. Seven, including myself, recalled a specific book (or author) that impacted a change in their life. Six others had no specific book although two indicated that their lives were impacted by books in general. :-)

~~~~

The Winner from SBB #196 comments is: #9 Elizabeth who can make a GC choice if international or book choice from the Updated ARC/Review titles or (not yet updated) Love titles - all linked near the end of the post. I'm hoping to update the book choices this week. Please let me know your choice by completing the (new) WINNER FORM.

WEEK #197 (One Question.)

Q1. Elizabeth asks: What are you favorite sports??

A: This seemed like a question we already had but I didn't see it in the list. Swimming is my favorite sport to participate in and I guess football is my favorite to watch; second would be the Olympics when you get to watch a variety. 

Image found at Mr. Smith's Wiki

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. Elizabeth asks: What are you favorite sports??

SBB Comment Winners can choose a selection from the  Valentine and "Love" books or the February 2015 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 still 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 April 11, 2015 at 5 PM  central.

Audio Book Review: Quitter by Jon Acuff

This is a fine practical guide to living in the now as you prepare for your dream job.
Quitter
by Jon Acuff


Narrated by: Jon Acuff
Length: 5 hrs and 45 mins
Unabridged Audiobook
Release Date:04-03-15
Publisher: Ramsey Press
Genre: Non Fiction
My Rating: 4.0 of 5.0

Have you ever felt caught between the tension of a day job and a dream job? That gap between what you have to do and what you’d love to do?
I have.
At first I thought I was the only one that felt that way, but then I started to talk to people and realized we’re becoming the “I’m, but” generation. When we talk about what we do for a living we inevitably say, “I’m a teacher, but I want to be an artist.” “I’m a CPA, but I’d love to start my own business.” “I’m a _____, but I want to be a ______.”
All too often, when we search for an answer to this dilemma people tell us that dreaming big means you, “Quit your day job, sell everything you own, and move to Guam.” But what if there was a different way?

What if you could blow up your dream without blowing up your life?
What if you could go for broke without going broke?
What if you could start today?
What if you already had everything you needed to begin?

From figuring out what your dream is to quitting in a way that exponentially increases your chance of success, Quitter is full of inspiring stories and actionable advice. The book is based on 12 years of cubicle living and my true story of cultivating a dream job that changed my life and the world in the process.
It’s time to close the gap between your day job and your dream job. It’s time to be a Quitter.

Review:
Jon Acuff tended to quit his jobs until he realized that he was not moving forward toward his dream job leaving a trail of 'failure', and financial problems, in his wake. This book gives Jon’s advice on how to begin building on your dream job by emphasizing positives within each job you have. Jon shares his good, and not so good, experiences that led him to success. He gives sound, practical advise that can be used by anyone who has a dream job or dream work to strive for.

I enjoyed the forthright examples and wisdom that are provided. Jon makes the point that success is not always measured by worldly terms of wealth or fame. Too often people sacrifice integrity, friends and even family in the mad climb up the ladder. Those people miss out on the more important aspects of life - basic security, contentment and love. Jon notes that, especially for those serving God, we should be living our lives and sharing God’s gifts along the journey to achieving our God given dream.

I recommend this book to anyone who is struggling with finding a perfect job and finding contentment. It doesn’t matter if you are young or old. Although I have long since reached work that I find satisfying, there are areas where I can apply some of Jon’s recommendations to make my life even better.

Audio Notes: Jon did his own narration. I appreciated his enthusiasm and clear sharing in the narration, and it was nice that he added insights while narrating that weren’t in the book. The only difficulty is that he speaks almost too fast at times. There are also suggestions that a reader might want to refer back to so this might be better in print for many readers.

My son recommended this audiobook to me as a free read that I picked up over a year ago. This qualifies for my Audio Book Challenge, TBR Double Dare and Q on Alphabet Soup.