Martha's Bookshelf***Friday Pick Giveaway July 17, 2015

Happy Friday - 
DH and I had lovely lunch today at the Grand Floridian Hotel at Disney. 
I just got up from a short nap so I could complete this post.
I hope everyone else gets some quiet, relaxing days!

TO ENTER FRIDAY PICK:

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.
no
Thank you to all who entered the July 10 Pick. There were no automatic wins this week.  Automatic wins are those who requested the book four times without other people asking for that book during those weeks. There were no titles blocked this week.

CONGRATULATIONS
to Random.org picked Winners from July 10 Pick:
MaryP gets a GC

Rita gets Illegal Possession

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.}

Doesnt' this look relaxing? 

Image found at GoiTalk

New Book Group #58 June 26, 2015
-- A few summer titles, a few mysteries, a few historicals...

PAIRS:
JoAnn Ross:Impulse and Far Harbor\
Barbara Bretton: One and Only and Shore Lights
SINGLES:
Honeymoon by James Patterson
Sam's Letters to Jennifer by James Patterson Audio Cassette Tapes
Marriage by the Book by Joan Johnston (slight binding damage)
Summer Lovin', American Romance - Marin Thomas, Laura Marie Altom and Ann Roth
Hot Pursuit - Karen Rose, Annie Solomon and Carla Cassidy
Murders in the Mist by Willard Scott
Murder on the Atlantic by Steve Allen
Love Me Tommow by Rosanne Bittner (spine creasing)
The Reiver's Woman by Catherine Creel
Never Romance a Rake by Liz Carlyle
Patriot Dreams by Barbara Michaels
Sevant, The Awakening by L.L. Foster


New Book Group #57 May 1, 2015
(I'll finish the list with authors on Saturday 5/2/15)

PAIRS:
Nora Roberts: The Heart of Devin MacKade and the Pride of Jared MacKade
SINGLES:
A Little Better Bit Wild by Victoria Dahl
Veil of Night by Lydia Joyce
The Ruthless Greek's Virgin Princess by Trish Morey
Special Agent by Candice DeLong
Dead in The Water by Stuart Woods - Cassette Tapes
Rally Fever by Crea Jones

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

PAIRS:
Catherine Lanigan: Tender Malice and Elusive Love (spine creases)
SINGLES:
Madison Avenue Marriage (Silhouette Desire #129) by Cassandra Bishop
The Sweetheart Dance by Patti Ann Colt
Where is He Now? by Jennifer Greene
Raintree Haunted by Linda Winstead Jones (spine creases)
Dear John by Nicholas Sparks


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

SINGLES:
If I Had You by Deborah Bedford
Dark Possession by Christine Feehan
The Man Who Ate the 747 by Ben Sherwood
Paradise Bay by James Michael Pratt
Exclusive Anthology by Fiona Hood-Stewart, Sharon Kendrick and Jackie Braun


New Book Group #54 December 26, 2014

SINGLES:
Ender’s Shadow by Orson Scott Card - Tape Cassettes



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
Richard Paul Evans PAIR: The Looking Glass and The Carousel
Duo Book: Yesterday's Memories by Tara Taylor Quinn and Amanda Stevens
Undateable by Ellen Rakieten & Anne Coyle
Sleeping with Ward Cleaver by Jenny Gardiner


BOX 3 2015 (reboxed from Boxes 39- 47)

Shetland Summer by Janet Lynnford
Breakfast in Bed by Sandra Brown - Audio Cassette Tapes (link is for mass media version)
Cattle Rancher, Secret Son by Margaret Way
Whisper on the Wind by Joan Smith
Trouble Becomes Her by Laura Van Wormer
Remember Me by Mary Higgins Clark
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)

Thinner by Stephen King
Foundation (Foundation Novels) by Isaac Asimov
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
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.


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

Circle of Stars by Anna Lee Waldo
Alien Chronicles - The Crimson Claw by Deborah Chester
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 840+ 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!

Delay in Friday Pick Post

Hi all and Happy Friday.
I am away with family (son this time) and the internet is super slow. I didn't set up my hotspot since it will only be three days.
Plus my time on computer has been limited by granddaughter sleep time and DH wanting to go ride the monorail instead of sit at computer.
So I am postponing the Friday Pick today. I hope to post it later this afternoon after we have been monorail hopping.
Enjoy your Friday everyone!

Audible Book Review: The Martian by Andy Weir

This is a gripping tale and great listening entertainment.
The Martian
Written by: Andy Weir
Narrated by: R. C. Bray

Length: 10 hrs and 53 mins
Unabridged Audiobook
Release Date:03-22-13
Publisher: Podium Publishing
Genre: Sci Fi
My Rating: 4.5 of 5.0

Six days ago, astronaut Mark Watney became one of the first people to walk on Mars. Now, he's sure he'll be the first person to die there. After a dust storm nearly kills him and forces his crew to evacuate while thinking him dead, Mark finds himself stranded and completely alone with no way to even signal Earth that he’s alive—and even if he could get word out, his supplies would be gone long before a rescue could arrive. Chances are, though, he won't have time to starve to death. The damaged machinery, unforgiving environment, or plain old "human error" are much more likely to kill him first. But Mark isn't ready to give up yet. Drawing on his ingenuity, his engineering skills—and a relentless, dogged refusal to quit—he steadfastly confronts one seemingly insurmountable obstacle after the next. Will his resourcefulness be enough to overcome the impossible odds against him?"

Review:
Mark Watney is stranded on Mars when his crewmates, believing he is dead, make an emergency evacuation. Mark is in a hostile environment with damaged equipment. He has no means of communication and limited provisions. But Mark isn’t one to give in and die easily. He gathers what supplies he can find and begins to implement plans for survival.

Mark’s skills as a botanist and engineer come in handy as he uses every creative means he can think of to provide a supply of water and food for an extended period. He doesn’t know if he can survive until the next mission arrives but first things first – he has to survive long enough to find a way to let mission control on earth know that he is still alive and kicking.

Once the mission specialists at home realize he is alive they go to work trying to figure out a way to rescue him. It was encouraging to think the NASA family, superiors and drones of all divisions, would be willing to pitch in hours of overtime and ignore the phenomenal costs to bring Mark home alive.

I was continually impressed by Mark’s ability to find solutions to problems he faced. He has a brilliant mind that works out “jury-rigged” solutions. Most of the fixes I found fascinating but there did come a spot further in where one of the explanations lost me. I enjoyed the mission control personalities, particularly Venkat Kaporr, as they argued their way to difficult decisions.

The story is filled with humor, courage, determination and ingenuity in face of overwhelming obstacles.  It shows the underlying heart of man to cling to hope and strive to survive. I was a little disappointed as I thought the ending was a bit abrupt. Then again— after a whole book of tension, any ending might seem a bit of a let down. As I was a little more than half way through I remarked to my husband: “I really think you would love listening to this story.” His usual reply is “I’ll wait for the movie.” I realized I was happy that he could wait for the movie which I anticipate sharing with him.

I recommend this story to those who love to see man succeed in the face of adversity. Those who enjoy tinkering and figuring out how to make things work would enjoy this too.

A cautionary note: there is some bad language, especially noticeable at the beginning but it is worth persevering beyond that.

Audio Notes: R.. C. Bray does a fine job of capturing the emotional highs and lows of this story. His voices for different characters worked well and his narration made the characters more alive for me, adding to my enjoyment of the story.

This audio is from my own Audible library. It adds to my Audiobook Challenge.

Audio Book Review: The Lost Starship by Vaughn Heppner

I found this to be an engaging Sci Fi listen with lots of danger and little touches of humor.

The Lost Starship
Written by: Vaughn Heppner
Narrated by: David Stifel

Length: 13 hrs and 49 mins
        Series: The Lost Starship, Book 1
    Unabridged Audiobook
    Release Date:11-13-14
    Publisher: Vaughn Heppner
Genre: Sci Fi Adventure
My Rating: 4.5 of 5.0

Publisher's Summary
Ten thousand years ago, a single alien super-ship survived a desperate battle. The vessel's dying crew set the AI on automatic to defend the smashed rubble of their planet. Legend has it the faithful ship continues to patrol the empty battlefield, obeying its last order throughout the lonely centuries.
In the here and now, Earth needs a miracle. Out of the Beyond invade the New Men, stronger, faster and smarter than the old. Their superior warships and advanced technology destroy every fleet sent to stop them. Their spies have infiltrated the government and traitors plague Earth's military.
Captain Maddox of Star Watch Intelligence wonders if the ancient legend could be true. Would such an old starship be able to face the technology of the New Men? On the run from killers, Maddox searches for a group of talented misfits. He seeks Keith Maker, a drunken ex-strikefighter ace, Doctor Dana Rich the clone thief stuck on a prison planet and Lieutenant Valerie Noonan, the only person to have faced the New Men in battle and survived to tell about it.
Maddox has to find a place hidden in the Beyond and bring back a ship no one can enter. If he fails, the New Men will replace the old. If he succeeds, humanity might just have a fighting chance...
©2014 Vaughn Heppner (P)2014 Vaughn Heppner

Review:
Earth has a new and formidable enemy known as the New Men. They resemble men but they are bronze, big and stronger – basically they are superhuman.

Captain Maddox has had a successful career in intelligence. No one knows that he has a secret that helps him succeed – except apparently his supreme commanders. They have kept facts from him that he is just uncovering. Now they are asking him to save mankind. They direct him on a stealth mission to go to The Beyond of the known galaxies to pursue a rumored weapon. He is to commandeer a relic of an alien super-ship which is left over from a battle thousands of years ago. It is believed that only the technological secrets of that supership can help mankind survive an invasion by the New Men. Maddox is provided the journal and notes of Professor Ludendorf who is the only explorer known to have led an expedition to the supership and survived to return.

Maddox is told what crew he is to recruit because they have “the right stuff”. Some he has to coerce, or kidnap and some he has to rescue. The only one who comes along voluntarily is Valerie Noonan, the sole survivor of a New Men battle attack. She has a reputation for knowing and following regulations and commands. This trip will definitely take her out of her comfort zone. The pilot is a brash Irishman who lost himself to the bottle. He is a brilliant pilot but only if he can keep his head clear. Two other crewmates must be rescued from a prison planet where the harsh environment and jungle rot are the primary cell walls. There Maddox is to rescue his second in command who killed the arrogant son of a wealthy crime lord who was cheating in a fight against Maddox. The second person to be rescued is a genius scientist who worked with Professor Ludendorf. She believes the mission is suicidal and, bitter towards all of mankind, she could care less about saving anyone but herself and her bodyguard friend, an amazon woman.

It is bad enough that Maddox and his mismatched, sometimes antagonistic, crew are being sent to retrieve a ship that is set to kill those who invade its territory. But matters get worse when it becomes clear that the New Men have infiltrated the Star Watch command so that Maddox can’t trust any other ships or communities.

I found these characters to be well developed and fascinating in the world they face. There are flaws and issues among the crew which adds in-fighting to the suspense. The story had humor, danger and action and it moved at a good pace with a reasonably plausible (if out of this world) mission. The betrayal and constant tension make for good engagement as I wanted to know how they would overcome the next obstacle – always trusting that Maddox or his team would pull a rabbit out of the hat. I recommend this to readers who enjoy a fast paced sci fi adventure. I will seek out more from this series!

Audio Notes: David Stifel does a very good job with the narration. He hit the right voices and attitudes for the characters. There were one or two minor slips but that didn't disrupt my enjoyment. My reading experience was enhanced by the audio format and I would like to listen to more.

I received this audible from the publisher through Audiobook Jukebox for an honest review. This is part of my 2015 Audio Challenge.

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

Sunday Post - It's Monday! is still not up and linking while Sheila finds her way after her family tragedy.
Kathryn at Date Book suggested linking with Sunday Post at Caffeinated Book Reviewer. I guess I'll have to rename the post starting next week.

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 busy week and will have a crazy week coming up. We will be meeting our son and d-i-l as they transition from Maryland to Mississippi with a stop in Florida to visit. 
I am still having some computer freeze up. I have a new computer on order so the new one may go to office and office lap top come home. We'll see after it comes in if it is faster.

I enjoyed my reading/listening week. I finished one ebook and one audio.  I posted four reviews to work toward getting caught up. One is with tour giveaway. I did get the memes in this week. 

I got to visit a bit at the end of 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 July 6, 2015.

• Book Review: Judas the Apostle by Van Mayhall Jr.; Biblical thriller; my rating 4.0.

• Book Review, Guest Post and Giveaway: Two Hearts: When I Said I Do, I Meant Forever by James Richey; Contemporary Romance; my rating 4.0. US and Canada; Ends 8/8//2015.

• Martha's Bookshelf***Friday Pick Giveaway July 10, 2015. Open Worldwide. Ends 7/16/2015.

• Audible Book Review: Extremes: A Retrieval Artist Novel by Kristine Kathryn Rusch; Sci Fi Mystery; my rating 4.75.

• Audible Book Review: Top Dog: The Story of Marine Hero Lucca by Maria Goodavage; Personal Memoir; my rating 4.5.

• Sharing Beyond Books #210 Comment Giveaway for July 11, 2015. Open Worldwide. Ends 8/8//2015.

• Sunday Words of Encouragement July 12, 2015.

Finished Reading:
1. Audible

The Martian
Written by: Andy Weir
Narrated by: R. C. Bray
This is very entertaining. 
I plan to post a review this week.
Click on book title for full description.

2. Print

Love in Disguise
by Carol Cox
Our Ladies' Book Club enjoyed this story of a female would be Pinkerton.
I will soon post a review with print giveaway.
Click on book title for full description.

Currently reading:
1. eBook/Kindle

A Town Called Dust: The Territory 1
by Justin Woolley
I am 23% in and enjoying the development of the primary characters. 
I purchased this to read before book 2 which I have from NetGalley.
Click on book title for full description.

2. Audible

Seduction in Death: In Death, Book 13
Written by: J. D. Robb
Narrated by: Susan Ericksen
I'm enjoying another investigation
with Eve Dallas and Roarke.
I purchased this with an Audible credit
to keep going in the series.
Publisher's Summary
Dante had been courting his victim in cyberspace for weeks before meeting her in person. A few sips of wine and a few hours later, she was dead. The murder weapon: a rare, usually undetectable date-rape drug with a street value of a quarter million dollars. Detective Eve Dallas is playing and replaying the clues in her mind. The candlelight, the music, the rose petals strewn across the bed - a seduction meant for his benefit, not hers. He hadn't intended to kill her. But now that he has, he is left with only two choices: to either hole up in fear and guilt or start hunting again....
©2001 Nora Roberts (P)2013 Brilliance Audio, Inc.

3.  eBook/Kindle

SEAL Team Six: Hunt the Fox
by Don Mann, Ralph Pezzullo
I plan to start this before the end of the week. 
I selected this title through NetGalley.
In war-torn Syria, the heroes of the SEAL Team Six series defuse an ISIS warlord's explosive plot.
After a meeting with a CIA source in Istanbul ends in tragedy, SEAL Team Six Chief Warrant Officer Thomas Crocker vows revenge. He suspects the men who attacked him and his contact are involved in the the latest and most harrowing scheme SEAL Team Six is charged with preventing, in a region that grows more volatile by the day.
Syria's government is unraveling, with the alliances among rebel groups increasingly complex and ISIS dangerously in the mix. Farid al-Kazaz, aka the Fox, leads the most threatening of the ISIS factions. The Fox believes Syrian President Bashar al-Assad ordered the murder of the Fox's brother and is planning a sarin gas attack that would wreak havoc across not just Syria, but the entire Middle East. It's up to Crocker and the rest of SEAL Team Six to stop a ruthless killer and keep an explosive plan from detonating.
The SEAL Team Six series has been hailed by special forces veterans and members of the intelligence community as a fascinating, behind-closed-doors look at the real-life heroism of our country's bravest soldiers. Now, Mann and Pezzullo use their experience and insight to tell the story of a terrifying plot ripped straight from the headlines.

4. Print

If My People . . .: A 40-Day Prayer Guide for Our Nation
By: Jack Countryman
I have to catch up a few days to be back on track.
The quotes from our founding fathers are particularly interesting at this time.
If My People guides believers on a 40-day prayer journey in the spirit of 2 Chronicles 7:14.
Click on book title for full description.

June/1/15- I am still up to date on Bible reading and greatly enjoying the readings-- It seems my eyes are open to more details and meaning.. 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.

July: Nothing else scheduled right now.

I posted four reviews last week so I have three so far for this week. 
I am back to six books at NetGalley.
I really want to get to a TBR eBook in July as I didn't get to any in June.

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 am considering some new author offered books this week. So far, no events for the rest of July so that leans toward taking a little break to read from my TBR shelves/boxes.
I downloaded the free Audio pair from SYNC and I added many 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

None.

Won

I won this book at Drey's Library.
Thank you Drey!
Mistress Firebrand: Renegades of the American Revolution
by Donna Thorland
British Occupied Manhattan, 1777...

Purchased

None.

Free

I actually had this in my Kindle Library from 2013. I have picked this up in paperbook for Ladies' BookClub reading this month.
Dying to Read (The Cate Kinkaid Files Book #1): A Novel
by Lorena McCourtney
All she wanted was a paycheck. What she got was a murder.


Free Downloads from AudioFile SYNC 2015 for week Ten.



The Explorers Club
by Nell Benjamin
Read by Jack Cutmore-Scott, Carson Elrod, David Furr, John Getz, Martin Jarvis, David Krumholtz, Lorenzo Pisoni, Jennifer Westfeldt, Matthew Wolf

Around the World in Eighty Days
by Jules Verne
Read by Michael Prichard

Over the past week I added 62 free Kindle titles to my library this week. 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 July 12, 2015

This morning was another wonderful time at church. Our Sunday School teacher (G) recapped his message from last week when we were gone. The class discussed the ramifications of the recent Supreme Court ruling. The thing Christians have to remember about the world around us is stated clearly in Romans 1:20 and 32:
20For since the creation of the world God’s invisible qualities—his eternal power and divine nature—have been clearly seen, being understood from what has been made, so that people are without excuse.
...
32Although they know God’s righteous decree that those who do such things deserve death, they not only continue to do these very things but also approve of those who practice them.

G’s message was titled “In The World Not of It” as he continues to remind us that we are in this world but we are beings apart who are not to be like everyone else. We are still studying Romans and G noted that Paul’s preaching focused on three issues:
1) We are to seek righteousness through Christ, which is the foundation of Christianity;
2) We are to exercise self-control over the lusts of man; and
3) We are to be mindful of the coming day of Judgment.
The “World” lives with no righteousness and no self-control.  Jesus directed his followers to go into the world to preach the gospel, make disciples and change the hearts of people.  Jesus did not send the apostles out to change the government or law.
Sometimes we allow too much of the world into our church systems. Churches try to reach the masses instead of reaching individuals. Instead of acknowledging and living as those set apart from the world, we too often blend with the world.
G proceeded to give us 25 passages that show how the world lives different than Christians.
Christians must exercise control against a) the lusts of the eyes, b) lust (cravings) of the flesh and c) pride.

Pastor's message was titled “Facing Life With God”. He noted that we live in a world where people are easily frazzled and stressed. But we grow through stress, trials and tribulation. The growing process includes a matter of knowing Who You Are.  He shared Psalm 46 which he presented in three parts that signify our standing as those who know who they are in God; those who have assurance that God is in control. Verses 1-3: I will not fear. Verses 4-7: I will not be moved and verses 8-11: I will rest in Him (in His control).

This morning we sang this song as one of our Worship songs.
It goes so well with both messages! Looking for a City.

Verses for Today:
2 Corinthians 10:2-5
2 I beg you that when I come I may not have to be as bold as I expect to be toward some people who think that we live by the standards of this world. 3 For though we live in the world, we do not wage war as the world does. 4 The weapons we fight with are not the weapons of the world. On the contrary, they have divine power to demolish strongholds. 5 We demolish arguments and every pretension that sets itself up against the knowledge of God, and we take captive every thought to make it obedient to Christ.

Lord, I thank you for the peace that you give through assurance of knowing You are in control. Help me to share Your light in a dark world until You return in Your glory.

Sharing Beyond Books #210 Comment Giveaway for July 11, 2015

Hello again on Saturday night and Welcome to Sharing Beyond Books, SBB! Sorry I missed last weekend but I had a nice time with family and it was relaxing not to open the computer for three and a half days. I think that is a record for me.

Thanks to everyone who commented last week.
I enjoyed hearing where each of you would like to visit. Most had specific destinations with two choosing Hawaii. Mystica would like a luxury train trip from London to Istanbul. MaryP would like a six month vacation throughout Great Britain. Others would be glad for any vacation (Carol L), any beach (bn100) or any swim place with temperate climate (miki). Fredamans is happy staying home. :-) Sometimes staycations are the most restful.

~~~~

The regular Winner from SBB #209 comments is: #1 Mystica 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 #210 (One Question.)

Miki asks: Q1 How many time/much time would you spend on entering contests??

A: We had an earlier question about how many entries we like in a contest and most of us said we like them kept simple. Excessive entries is tiresome. That being said... now we can answer Miki's questions.

My biggest contest entering year was 2009 - I was addicted. I probably entered at least one giveaway each day and I won 293 contests that year - books or gift cards. I did win my Kindle that year through a fairly lengthy scavenger hunt. At least there were several weeks to enter that event as I recall. I started Friday Pick in November 2009 so that I could share book giving with others. :-)

I have not done very much entering over the past years - just now and then and I am still pretty lucky. However, a few months ago I spent several hours entering a lot of contests (maybe 80)  at Goodreads. I didn't win a single one and I felt like I wasted an afternoon. So I will continue to enter contests only sporadically and I tucker out at about 10 entries in any given contest. 

Image found at Young and Thrifty.

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! The supply of questions is dwindling so share some if  you think of any -- even if they are duplicates I'll weed through or try to modify to use.

Your turn to share:
Miki asks: Q1 How many time/much time would you spend on entering contests??

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. One of these days I will get together a new box of Christmas titles.)

SBB Rules:
a) Must be a follower.
b) Share a comment on the question above.
Open internationally and an international winner may get a smaller book or a $5.00 GC if I decide the mailing is too much.
I will pick a Comment winner from all comments made through Saturday July 18, 2015 at 5 PM central.

Audible Book Review: Top Dog: The Story of Marine Hero Lucca by Maria Goodavage

This is a wonderful story!
Top Dog: The Story of Marine Hero Lucca
Written by: Maria Goodavage
Narrated by: Neil Shah

Length: 7 hrs and 58 mins
Unabridged Audiobook
Release Date:10-23-14
Publisher: Recorded Books
Genre: Personal Memoirs
My Rating: 4.5 of 5.0

Publisher's Summary
The New York Times best-selling author of Soldier DogsTop Dog, Maria Goodavage takes listeners into the life of Lucca K458, a decorated and highly skilled military working dog. An extraordinary bond developed between Lucca and Marine Corps handler Chris Willingham, launching what became a legendary 400-mission career. A Specialized Search Dog, Lucca belongs to an elite group trained to work off-leash at long distances from her handler. She served alongside both Special Forces and regular infantry. She and Willingham became so sought-after that units scheduled missions around their availability.
The audiobook describes in gritty detail the team’s adventures on and off the battlefields, including tense, lifesaving explosives finds and firefights as well as the bravery of fellow handlers and dogs they served with. Ultimately, we see how the bond between Lucca and Willingham overcame the endless brutalities of war and the traumas this violence ignites. Here is a portrait of modern warfare with a heart-warming and inspiring conclusion that will touch dog lovers and the toughest military listeners.
©2014 Maria Goodavage and Christopher Elden Willingham (P)2014 Recorded Books

Review:
This book tells the story of Lucca K458, a highly skilled military working dog who developed a strong bond with her primary handler, Marine Staff Sgt. Chris Willingham. Lucca also had a good bond with her second handler, Cpl. Juan “ROD” Rodriguez. This book portrays Lucca’s experiences searching out IEDs and hidden weapon stashes in Afghanistan and other war zones. She risks her own life as she saves many others. The story includes relationships with other military working dogs and their handlers. There is also a little sharing of military friendships and home life interactions.

There were some disjointed sections that seemed to be taken from an outline that was added on. This disrupted the flow a bit but the information was still gripping. The description says “gritty detail” but this does not mean foul language as it might in other stories. The gritty details are the violence and trauma of war. Although it is hard to hear the awful reality of war, the story of the great work and service that the dogs perform is worth the listen. I found the story absolutely wonderful. It is definitely 'heart-warming and inspiring'.

I think any dog lover would like this story. Those interested in military detail would also enjoy this different view.

Audio Notes: Neil Shah does an adequate job but I am sorry to say that the narration is not stellar. I felt that there could have been a lot more energy and inflection added to enhance the reading. I am glad I found this as a Daily Deal. I recommend listening to a sample of the audio to determine how you feel about it before purchasing the audio version.

I picked this up recently for $2.95 as a Daily Deal at Audible. This is added to my Audio Challenge. I would like to use this as my outstanding heroine for Full House Challenge. 

Audible Book Review: Extremes: A Retrieval Artist Novel by Kristine Kathryn Rusch

I found this sci fi mystery completely gripping.

Extremes: A Retrieval Artist Novel
Written by: Kristine Kathryn Rusch
Narrated by: Jay Snyder

Length: 11 hrs and 37 mins
Series: Retrieval Artist, Book 2
Unabridged Audiobook
Release Date:05-20-08
Publisher: Audible Studios
Genre: Sci Fi Mystery
My Rating: 4.75 of 5.0

Publisher's Summary
His name: Miles Flint. His occupation: Retrieval Artist. His job: find the Disappeared - outlaws on the run, wanted for crimes against alien cultures. The catch: Flint isn't working on the side of the law anymore.
One simple mistake and a Disappeared could end up dead. But this time, the death of an ailing Retrieval Artist has caught Flint's attention. He suspects it was foul play, not a viral infection. Equally suspicious is a young woman's sudden demise during the Moon's prestigious Extreme Marathon. As Flint investigates, he finds an ominous connection. Both deaths lead back to a scientist - a scientist who is now one of the Disappeared.
Listen to more in the Retrieval Artist series.
©2003 White Mist Mountain, Inc.; (P)2008 Audible, Inc.

Review:
Miles Flint was a police detective who pursued criminals. Now he has retired to become a Retrieval Artist who finds “the Disappeared” - those who disappear because they are on the run, often, although not always, from unintentional crimes against alien cultures.

Miles is approached by a local law firm who wants to hire his services. He is initially uncomfortable about their motives especially when they track his usually secure systems. Miles becomes interested when he learns the case involves the death of another Retrieval Artist. Miles  investigation leads to a connection to a death that has just occurred during a local, prestigious marathon.

The young woman’s death during the Moon’s Extreme Marathon initially appears to be accidental. However, Noelle De Ricci, Flint’s former partner and the reluctant detective assigned to the case, soon uncovers clues that reveal the death as a murder. The event organizers want to keep the murder quiet but that is difficult when all of the staff and  race participates must be detained and questioned. The investigation has to cope with the unique elements and limitations of the moon’s environment as well as trying to uncover motive and opportunity.

I was totally enthralled by the mystery of this story. The author has a wonderful style of sharing the details in puzzle bits the reader (listener) gets to piece together. The threads of the story might at first seem unconnected but the author skillfully ties them together. The sci fi world of the moon city within a dome is well developed and adds intrigue to the details. There is a chase scene that is a bit "out there" but it added excitement and increased pacing in the later portions of the book.

This was the second book I read/listened to in this series and I will not wait so long to listen to another. I appreciate that the book has no sex and no foul language. I recommend this series to those who love detailed mysteries with the added interest of an alien environment.

Audio Notes: I enjoy Jay Snyder’s narration in this series. He is able to convey Flint’s equanimity towards his work and DeRicci’s dedication to the investigation. The narration enhances my enjoyment of this series.

I selected this from my own Audible Library (2012). It is part of my 2015 Audio Challenge and part of my TBR Pile Challenge.

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

Happy Friday - I had a lovely relaxing, long four days last weekend. Of course this week and weekend I have been scrambling to catch back up. 
I hope everyone is getting to enjoy some summer fun!

TO ENTER FRIDAY PICK:

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.

Thank you to all who entered the July 3 Pick. There were two automatic wins this week.  Automatic wins are those who requested the book four times without other people asking for that book during those weeks. There was one title blocked.
Auto: Rubynreba gets Yesterday's Memory
and Natasha gets Veil of Night

CONGRATULATIONS
to Random.org picked Winners from July 3 Pick:
Becky gets Never Romance a Rake

Miki gets a GC

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

I like this look!

Image found at ecurranonline.com

New Book Group #58 June 26, 2015
-- A few summer titles, a few mysteries, a few historicals...

PAIRS:
JoAnn Ross:Impulse and Far Harbor\
Barbara Bretton: One and Only and Shore Lights
SINGLES:
Honeymoon by James Patterson
Sam's Letters to Jennifer by James Patterson Audio Cassette Tapes
Marriage by the Book by Joan Johnston (slight binding damage)
Summer Lovin', American Romance - Marin Thomas, Laura Marie Altom and Ann Roth
Hot Pursuit - Karen Rose, Annie Solomon and Carla Cassidy
Murders in the Mist by Willard Scott
Murder on the Atlantic by Steve Allen
Love Me Tommow by Rosanne Bittner (spine creasing)
The Reiver's Woman by Catherine Creel
Never Romance a Rake by Liz Carlyle
Patriot Dreams by Barbara Michaels
Sevant, The Awakening by L.L. Foster


New Book Group #57 May 1, 2015
(I'll finish the list with authors on Saturday 5/2/15)

PAIRS:
Nora Roberts: The Heart of Devin MacKade and the Pride of Jared MacKade
SINGLES:
A Little Better Bit Wild by Victoria Dahl
Veil of Night by Lydia Joyce
The Ruthless Greek's Virgin Princess by Trish Morey
Special Agent by Candice DeLong
Dead in The Water by Stuart Woods - Cassette Tapes
Rally Fever by Crea Jones

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

PAIRS:
Catherine Lanigan: Tender Malice and Elusive Love (spine creases)
SINGLES:
Madison Avenue Marriage (Silhouette Desire #129) by Cassandra Bishop
The Sweetheart Dance by Patti Ann Colt
Where is He Now? by Jennifer Greene
Raintree Haunted by Linda Winstead Jones (spine creases)
Dear John by Nicholas Sparks


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

SINGLES:
If I Had You by Deborah Bedford
Dark Possession by Christine Feehan
The Man Who Ate the 747 by Ben Sherwood
Paradise Bay by James Michael Pratt
Exclusive Anthology by Fiona Hood-Stewart, Sharon Kendrick and Jackie Braun


New Book Group #54 December 26, 2014

SINGLES:
Ender’s Shadow by Orson Scott Card - Tape Cassettes



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
Richard Paul Evans PAIR: The Looking Glass and The Carousel
Duo Book: Yesterday's Memories by Tara Taylor Quinn and Amanda Stevens
Undateable by Ellen Rakieten & Anne Coyle
Sleeping with Ward Cleaver by Jenny Gardiner


BOX 3 2015 (reboxed from Boxes 39- 47)

Shetland Summer by Janet Lynnford
Breakfast in Bed by Sandra Brown - Audio Cassette Tapes (link is for mass media version)
Cattle Rancher, Secret Son by Margaret Way
Whisper on the Wind by Joan Smith
Trouble Becomes Her by Laura Van Wormer
Remember Me by Mary Higgins Clark
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)

Thinner by Stephen King
Foundation (Foundation Novels) by Isaac Asimov
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
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.


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

Circle of Stars by Anna Lee Waldo
Alien Chronicles - The Crimson Claw by Deborah Chester
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 839+ 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!

Book Review, Guest Post and Giveaway: Two Hearts: When I Said I Do, I Meant Forever by James Richey

This is an easy read dealing with marriage, mining and a dash of danger.
Two Hearts: When I Said I Do, I Meant Forever
by James Richey

• File Size: 3068 KB
• Print Length: 435 pages
• Page Numbers Source ISBN: 0990918106
• Publisher: JER Books; 1 edition (December 23, 2014)
• Publication Date: December 23, 2014
• ASIN: B00REM92NS
• Genre: Contemporary Romance
• My Rating: 4.0 of 5.0

Jaxon Tagget is a cattle-rancher's son, born and raised on the Double T, just outside of Dillon, Montana. In love with his high-school sweetheart, Annie, Jaxon proposes on graduation night, presenting her with a wedding ring made from gold he mined himself. Annie accepts immediately, to the horror of her bitter, man-hating mother.
Jaxon's a wonderful husband, but the warnings of Annie's mother linger in the young bride's ears. And it doesn't help that women continue to fall all over the markedly handsome Jaxon.
Unaware of his wife's persistent doubts, Jaxon is struggling with his own troubles when he finds out his dad is sorely in need of money to save the ranch. But hope glimmers gold when he rediscovers the old mine on the Double T.
While Jaxon travels to verify the mine's productivity, Annie grows increasingly suspicious. Is Jaxon's absence what it seems, or does he have another, less faithful reason for his travels? When Annie sees a picture of the beautiful laboratory owner whom Jaxon is visiting, she's sure the only gold he's interested in is long, blond hair. Is Annie right, or will it be her doubts that forever sever their Two Hearts?

Review:
Annie was a beautiful and popular high school student when Jaxon approached her. They became an “item” from that night on. Jaxon is handsome man and his farming work has built attractive muscles any woman would admire. Annie is thrilled when Jaxon proposes the night of graduation and presents her with a handmade double heart pendant as well as a handmade ring. Annie’s mother has a different reaction. Annie was ten years old when her mother found her father with another woman. Annie’s mother is bitter and reminds Annie consistently not to trust any man, especially one as handsome as Jax.

Annie and Jax marry a few years later. After college he secures a job with a mining company in South America. Jax is a rising star and all is going well until the boss’s younger wife takes an interest in him. Jax tries to avoid the ‘viper’ woman but one night she corners him. Events erupt causing Jax to be fired and Annie to suspect her husband in spite of his reasonable explanation.

Jax and Annie arrive back at his ranch to discover his father suffering with cancer and the ranch suffering financial difficulties. As Jax tries to find ways to save the ranch Annie takes every rumor as evidence that he has been unfaithful. Will she be able to overcome her distrust or will she forever regret her attitude when danger strikes?

There are women who could relate to Annie’s insecurities and jealousies, especially when fueled by having witnessed her father’s infidelity and neglect. I, however, had trouble with her distrust which could be a surefire way to kill her relationship with Jax. Even though I found Annie’s attitude difficult, I enjoyed the story which the author built around the trust issues in marriage and poisonous influences outside a marriage. Jax is a great guy and I found all of the mining details very interesting. His four friends also add interest to the story as did the excitement of a plane crash and hired killers. One of the friends brings not only rumors but danger to Jax and Annie.

The story is well written and makes for a quick read. I recommend this to readers who enjoy sweet contemporary romance with conflict and a dash of danger.

I received this title from iReads for an honest review.

Where to buy the book:

Amazon

Meet the Author:

James Eric Richey was born and raised in California. He attended Brigham Young University, studying English with an emphasis in Literature. After graduating from BYU he returned home to California to further his education by attending law school. After passing the bar, James practiced in California for several years, but he quickly learned that he did not have a passion for the law.

In 1998 James obtained his real estate appraiser license, which has given him a flexible work schedule and allowed him to pursue his true passion, writing books. Besides his writing, he also enjoys reading, running, and sailing. James currently lives in Cheyenne, Wyoming, with his wife, Heather, and their two daughters.

Connect with the author:   Website  ~   Twitter  ~    Facebook

AUTHOR"S GUEST POST:
Facing Life’s Challenges:
     Life is full of trials. No one is exempt. It is not a matter of if, but rather, when we will face them. Life’s trials can be small or large, and no matter the size, success in our trials depends upon our attitude as we face them and our ability to persevere through them to the end. Will we and can we endure to the end?
     We live in a disposable society—if something is broken we throw it away. This same philosophy is applied to marriage—divorce is the first answer for any little problem that comes up.
     At the beginning of Two Hearts Jaxon digs for months to find enough gold to make Annie a wedding ring. He could have purchased a ring for her, but that was the easy way. Jaxon wanted to work for it, to show to Annie what kind of man he was. Jaxon was willing to do anything for her. He knew of her past and knew the challenges she carried with her, and yet, he still wanted to marry her. For Jaxon, they could work together and solve any problem that came their way. No matter the size of the trial, Jaxon wanted to work together side by side with Annie to face life’s challenges.
     Reading a story about facing trials maybe boring and mundane, but adding a bear attack, finding a gold mine, suspected infidelity, hired killers, and plane crashes adds spice to the story to keep readers turning the page. I think with all of the things that Jaxon and Annie faced, their undying love for each other helped to propel the story forward.
     Jaxon never faltered. Annie struggled with trust due to her being raised by a mother who hated men. Annie struggled, but in the end she stayed true to Jaxon and the vows she made at marriage. Ultimately their love grew stronger because of the trials they suffered together. They battled the storms and survived. Reading stories about other peoples’ struggles and successes gives us each hope and strength to endure our own trials.

Rafflecopter Giveaway

Prize: Win one of 10 copies of “Two Hearts”. Two winners will also each get a $20 Amazon Gift Card (open to USA & Canada) Ends Aug 8

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Book Review: Judas the Apostle by Van Mayhall Jr.

This is an engaging biblical thriller.

Judas the Apostle
by Van Mayhall Jr.

• File Size: 813 KB
• Print Length: 303 pages
• Page Numbers Source ISBN: 1475931557
• Publisher: iUniverse (August 22, 2013)
• Publication Date: August 22, 2013
• ASIN: B00EWF24D0

My Rating: 4.0 of 5.0

Ancient language expert Dr. Clotile Lejeune is happily living a quiet life in Seattle when her world is profoundly shaken. After she learns that her estranged father has been murdered, Cloe must travel with her soldier son, J. E., back to her Louisiana hometown to unlock the mysteries of a two-thousand-year-old oil jar her father has left her—a jar inscribed with the name Judas Iscariot. Anxious to find her father’s killer and dispel her own personal demons, Cloe has no idea that what she is about to uncover has the potential to set the international religious community on fire.

With the help of a mysterious cleric, her son, and a letter from her father, Cloe soon realizes the African oil jar her father unearthed during the war may be the most important relic discovered in centuries. But it is only the beginning. Across the globe, a billionaire arms merchant is leaving a trail of bodies in his wake in his pursuit of the jar and its contents.

In this biblical thriller, the race for answers takes a language professor on a dangerous quest across three continents in order to discover the identity of Judas Iscariot. Now only time will tell if Cloe can find out what the past is reaching out to tell her—before it is too late.

Review:
Cloe was estranged from her father since her unwed pregnancy. She worked hard and earned a respected position as an Ancient Language expert. Her son, J.E., is a intelligence soldier on furlough when she is advised her father has been murdered. They travel from Seattle to Louisiana for the funeral and reading of the Will. Cloe inherits an African oil jar that was her father’s treasure for special reasons. It soon becomes clear that the jar, believed to bear the name of Judas Iscariot, has some historical significance especially with Monsignor Roques, a representative from the Vatican, stepping in to help study the artifact.

The Vatican isn’t the only person interested in the jar. There is a cold-hearted, cutthroat antiquities collector who wants the jar -- at whatever cost. Cloe, J.E. and the monsignor have to dodge killers as they gather data and search out clues. They face betrayal, danger and twists along their journey. Ultimately the protagonists meet up with the villain and there is surprising intervention.

There are early snippets of suspense that help maintain movement through the slow beginning of the story. The action picks up mid way and the danger and excitement continue to the end. I enjoyed the clean, direct writing style and the sharing of fun regional foods. I found the theological arguments, offering various views of Judas' actions, thought provoking. I had some initial qualms about Cloe’s personality but I appreciated that she was able to recognize errors and return to some important truths in her life.

Readers should be prepared for theology discussion which is pretty obvious by the title and central subject. There is good suspense and action too. I recommend this to readers who enjoy archaeological elements, mystery and suspense.

I selected this through NetGalley and it qualifies for my NetGalley challenge.