Contact email: mesreads AT gmail.com
###Winner Announcement Posts are linked here.###

GIVEAWAYS ARE NOW LOCATED ON THEIR OWN PAGE - CLICK ON TAB ABOVE; Giveaways also linked on right sidebar.

Sunday, August 2, 2015

Sunday Post August 2, 2015/It's Monday! What are You Reading? Plus Mailbox Monday August 3, 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.


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 fought the cough all week going to bed early in hopes I would sleep without coughing. It resulted in a lot of reading/listening!

I finished three ebooks and three audios. I just managed to post three reviews by squeezing two in at the end of the week. I also posted the usual memes.

I didn't get to do any visiting since I barely was online. I came home, ate something light and went to bed. I didn't have any energy to fight with the old computer. I hope to get the new one set up this week.
Thanks as always to all the nice people who visit me.

These were last week's posts:
  • Audible Book Review: Sector 64: Ambush by Dean M. Cole; Sci Fi Suspense; my rating 4.0.
Finished Reading:
1. eBook/Kindle (and Print)


Dying to Read (The Cate Kinkaid Files Book #1): A Novel 
by Lorena McCourtney 
This is a fun, easy read.
I picked up print copies at discount for our Ladies Book Club on August 1, which got postponed. Review and giveaway will post later this week.
Click on book title for full description.



2. Audible


Double Dip: A Davis Way Crime Caper
Written by: Gretchen Archer
Narrated by: Amber Benson
This was another great fun story continuing Davis' crazy antics.
I received this from Claire McKinneyPR.
I plan to post reviews for all three books this week.
Click on book title for full description.



3. eBook/Kindle



A Curse of Ash and Iron
by Christine Norris
This was rather unexpectedly good. 
I will post a review this week.
Click on book title for full description.



4. Audible


Steelheart: Reckoners, Book 1
Written by: Brandon Sanderson
Narrated by: MacLeod Andrews
This was Great Entertainment!
This was from 2013 in my Audible library.
Publisher's Summary
From the number-one New York Times best-selling author of the Mistborn Trilogy, Brandon Sanderson, comes the first book in a new, action-packed thrill ride of a series - Steelheart. Ten years ago, Calamity came. It was a burst in the sky that gave ordinary men and women extraordinary powers. The awed public started calling them Epics.
But Epics are no friend of man. With incredible gifts came the desire to rule. And to rule man you must crush his wills.
Nobody fights the Epics...nobody but the Reckoners. A shadowy group of ordinary humans, they spend their lives studying Epics, finding their weaknesses, and then assassinating them.
And David wants in. He wants Steelheart - the Epic who is said to be invincible. The Epic who killed David's father. For years, like the Reckoners, David's been studying, and planning - and he has something they need. Not an object, but an experience.
He's seen Steelheart bleed.
And he wants revenge.
©2013 Dragonsteel Entertainment, LLC (P)2013 Audible Inc.



5. eBook /Kindle


Footsteps in the Sky
by Greg Keyes
I was attracted by the cover and ended up enjoying this story.
I selected this at NetGalley.
The pueblo people who landed on the Fifth World found it Earthlike, empty, and ready for colonization . . . but a century later, they are about to meet the planet’s owners

One hundred years ago, Sand’s ancestors made the long, one-way trip to the Fifth World, ready to work ceaselessly to terraform the planet. Descendants of native peoples like the Hopi and Zuni, they wanted to return to the way of life of their forebears, who honored the Kachina spirits.

Now, though, many of the planet’s inhabitants have begun to resent their grandparents’ decision to strand them in this harsh and forbidding place, and some have turned away from the customs of the Well-Behaved People. Sand has her doubts, but she longs to believe that the Kachina live on beyond the stars and have been readying a new domain for her people.

She may be right. Humans have discovered nine habitable worlds, all with life that shares a genetic code entirely alien to any on Earth. Someone has been seeding planets, bringing life to them. But no other sign of the ancient farmers has ever been discovered—until one day they return to the Fifth World. They do not like what they find.

Originally written in 1994, Footsteps in the Sky is finally being released in digital form by Open Road Media.



6. Audible


Double Strike
Written by: Gretchen Archer
Narrated by: Amber Benson
I enjoyed this adventure too - hope for more.
I received this audio from the publisher through Audiobook Jukebox.
Publisher's Summary
Bellissimo Resort and Casino Super Spy Davis Way knows three things: Cooking isn’t a prerequisite for a happy marriage, don’t trust men who look like David Hasselhoff, and money doesn’t grow on Christmas trees. None of which help when a storm hits the Gulf a week before the most anticipated event in Bellissimo history: the Strike It Rich Sweepstakes. Securing the guests, staff, and property might take a stray bullet. Or two. Bellissimo Resort and Casino Super Spy Davis Way has three problems: She’s desperate to change her marital status, she has a new boss who speaks in hashtags, and Bianca Sanders has confiscated her clothes. All of which bring on a headache hot enough to spark a fire. Solving her problems means stealing a car. From a dingbat lawyer. Bellissimo Resort and Casino Super Spy Davis Way has three goals: Keep the Sanders family out of prison, regain her footing in her relationship, and find the genius who wrote the software for future gaming. One of which, the manhunt one, is iffy. Because when Alabama hides someone, they hide them good. Double Strike. A VIP invitation to an extraordinary high-stakes gaming event, as thieves, feds, dance instructors, shady bankers, kidnappers, and gold waiters go all in.
©2014 Gretchen Archer (P)2014 Audible, Inc.




Currently reading:
1. eBook/Kindle


Plantation Shudders: A Cajun Country Mystery (A Cajun Country Mystery)
by Ellen Byron
This is starting out to be a fun cozy. 
I selected this through NetGalley.
Check in for some Southern hospitality in Plantation Shudders, the Cajun Country series debut from Ellen Byron.
It's the end of the summer and Prodigal Daughter Maggie Crozat has returned home to her family's plantation-turned-bed-and-breakfast in Louisiana. The Crozats have an inn full of guests for the local food festival—elderly honeymooners, the Cajun Cuties, a mysterious stranger from Texas, a couple of hipster lovebirds, and a trio of Georgia frat boys. But when the elderly couple keels over dead within minutes of each other - one from very unnatural causes - Maggie and her family suddenly become suspects in a murder.
With the help of Bo Durand, the town's handsome new detective, Maggie must investigate to clear her name while holding the family business together at the same time. And the deeper she digs, the more she wonders: are all of the guests really there for a vacation or do they have ulterior motives? Decades-old secrets and stunning revelations abound in Ellen Byron’s charming cozy debut, Plantation Shudders.



2. Audible


14
Written by: Peter Clines
Narrated by: Ray Porter
I selected this from my own Audible Library.
Publisher's Summary
Audie Award Nominee, Science Fiction, 2013
Padlocked doors. Strange light fixtures. Mutant cockroaches.
There are some odd things about Nate’s new apartment. Of course, he has other things on his mind. He hates his job. He has no money in the bank. No girlfriend. No plans for the future. So while his new home isn’t perfect, it’s livable. The rent is low, the property managers are friendly, and the odd little mysteries don’t nag at him too much. At least, not until he meets Mandy, his neighbor across the hall, and notices something unusual about her apartment. And Xela’s apartment. And Tim’s. And Veek’s. Because every room in this old Los Angeles brownstone has a mystery or two. Mysteries that stretch back over a hundred years. Some of them are in plain sight. Some are behind locked doors. And all together these mysteries could mean the end of Nate and his friends. Or the end of everything....
©2012 Peter Clines and Permuted Press (P)2012 Audible, Inc.



3. eBook/Kindle



Dark Horse
by Michelle Diener
I selected this at NetGalley because it sounds really good.
Some secrets carry the weight of the world. Rose McKenzie may be far from Earth with no way back, but she's made a powerful ally--a fellow prisoner with whom she's formed a strong bond. Sazo's an artificial intelligence. He's saved her from captivity and torture, but he's also put her in the middle of a conflict, leaving Rose with her loyalties divided. Captain Dav Jallan doesn't know why he and his crew have stumbled across an almost legendary Class 5 battleship, but he's not going to complain. The only problem is, all its crew are dead, all except for one strange, new alien being. She calls herself Rose. She seems small and harmless, but less and less about her story is adding up, and Dav has a bad feeling his crew, and maybe even the four planets, are in jeopardy. The Class 5's owners, the Tecran, look set to start a war to get it back and Dav suspects Rose isn't the only alien being who survived what happened on the Class 5. And whatever else is out there is playing its own games. In this race for the truth, he's going to have to go against his leaders and trust the dark horse.



June 1, 2015- 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.



I posted three reviews last week which left one and six new for this week. So it should be busy on reviews.
I am reading two NetGalley titles and added one. That brings my shelf down to five NetGalley titles.
I hope to do a few more TBRs in August. 


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 didn't get to reply to the new author-offered books while I was crawling in bed.
I added just one NetGalley title and purchased one Kindle bundle. I am still trying to decide on my two Audible choices.
I downloaded the free Audio pair from SYNC and I added 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 selected one title at NetGalley this week.

The Banished of Muirwood (Covenant of Muirwood Book 1)
by Jeff Wheeler
In a world full of magic and mystery, eighteen-year-old Maia is the exiled princess of Comoros and rightful heir to the throne.... Her powers threaten to steal not only her consciousness but also her sense of right and wrong. Can she set herself free and save the realm she loves—even if her people have forgotten her?

This author seems to have created a special fantasy world and the story was enticing.

Won
None.


Purchased
I purchased on .99 cent bundle. I think I will have to do another month of no purchases I have to force myself to resist these as there are so many that tempt me. 
Dying to Read Collection
by Susette Williams, Cynthia Hickey, Janice Thompson, Christy Barritt & Traci Tyne Hilton


Free
Free Downloads from AudioFile SYNC 2015 for week Twelve.



Courage Has No Color, The True Story of the Triple Nickles
by Tanya Lee Stone
Read by J.D. Jackson



John Ball’s In the Heat of the Night
by Matt Pelfrey
Read by Ryan Vincent Anderson, Michael Hammond, Kalen Harriman, Travis Johns, James Morrison, Darren Richardson, Tom Virtue


Over the past week I again added 45 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 August 2, 2015

I missed church again this morning as was coughing and dragging after an interrupted night with about four hours sleep. This week our daily Bible readings have been in 2 Chronicles 19-30, Psalm 21-25 75, Romans 10-16 and Proverbs 20. One of my prior studies, Through the Bible in One Year, notes that Chronicles is a retrospective review of the history of the people of Israel and provides a vital lesson from them and for us: “a nations’ response to God is the decisive factor in its history.” (Page 49.)

God blessed Israel, His chosen nation, but punished them to the point of removing His protections and blessings, even allowing them to be carried off, because they turned away from His commands, worshiped idols and allowed sin to run rampant. I have no reason to think He will not bring similar punishment on America as it’s people scorn His blessings and turn more and more to their selfish desires, allowing wickedness to abound.

What can we do?? We are called to be watchmen. We can pray and we share God’s Good News.
[Related posts: The Harbinger, The Mystery of the Shemitah, Four Blood Moons, and If My People Prayer Guide.]

This is a powerful praise song we have been singing at Church: Victor’s Crown.
I think it fits for this message.
Verses for Today:
2 Chronicles 30:8-9
8 Do not be stiff-necked, as your ancestors were; submit to the Lord. Come to his sanctuary, which he has consecrated forever. Serve the Lord your God, so that his fierce anger will turn away from you. 9 If you return to the Lord, then your fellow Israelites and your children will be shown compassion by their captors and will return to this land, for the Lord your God is gracious and compassionate. He will not turn his face from you if you return to him.”

Lord, I thank You for Your blessings and guidance. I thank You for Your Glory. I trust in Your plans. I trust Your faithfulness, mercy and grace.

Book Review: If My People . . .: A 40-Day Prayer Guide for Our Nation By Jack Countryman

This is an inspiring prayer devotional.
By: Jack Countryman

  • File Size: 178 KB
  • Print Length: 59 pages
  • Page Numbers Source ISBN: 1404187286
  • Publisher: Thomas Nelson (August 27, 2012)
  • Publication Date: August 27, 2012
  • Sold by: HarperCollins Christian Publishing
  • ASIN: B003DS6OII
Genre: Devotional
My Rating: 4.5 of 5.0


If My People guides believers on a 40-day prayer journey in the spirit of 2 Chronicles 7:14.
"If My people who are called by My name will humble themselves, and pray and seek My face, and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin and heal their land."
In the days prior to the election, this prayer booklet guides believers through 40 days of prayer, plus providing seven prayers from past presidents, inspired during some of our country's darkest days.


Review:
This is a very easy, but powerful 40-day prayer devotional. It was originally released before the election in 2008 as a tool to help increase spiritual awareness and the need for repentance and renewal. The version linked was re-released before the 2012 elections. Anyone who has read the Bible is familiar with the 2 Chronicles 7:14 promise reflected above.

This study guide pulls daily readings from new testament and old and pairs them with a succinct prayer for each day of the 40 readings. At every five day interval there is a quote from an American President that acknowledges God’ sovereignty and hand on America from George Washington to Ronald Reagan. The political affiliation of the president is not important, but their acknowledgment of the importance of prayer is vital. I found these entries inspiring. I also found the few pages of revival history at the end of this slim volume interesting.

Times and conditions in America were at least troubled from a Christian perspective in 2008, and again in 2012. In my opinion, conditions have deteriorated since then. I do love my country and I pray for our people. I love My Lord more and understand the righteous anger He has every right to wield.

I think this is a guide for prayers that should be repeated often by every faithful American. It would be grand to do the study as a group but even individually, the prayers are important. I believe that God hears our prayers and that prayers give strength to others, and angels, in the unseen battles that wage around us.

I selected this guide on sale at Christianbook.com to share with Ladies Book Club.

Saturday, August 1, 2015

Sharing Beyond Books #213 Comment Giveaway for August 1, 2015

Hello again and Welcome to Sharing Beyond Books, SBB!
I have had to struggle through my busy week with my cough/cold. The very sweet, faithful and called Doctor who runs our church "Faith Health Clinic" brought cough syrup to my home earlier in the week and called me to come into the clinic today. He said I have flu symptoms for which he prescribed several medications. Hopefully it will clear up sooner than later!

Thanks to everyone who commented last week.
Miki, Carol L and SueF each named series they would like continued. I will be checking into those series. :-) Nine commenters could not think of any short series they would like continued although most thought there were some and two liked longer series. Two said they didn't know any series they would like continued.
~~~~

The regular Winner from SBB #212 comments is: #13 Mary P 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 #213 (One Question.)

Booklady asks: Q1 If you were able to meet any author (living or dead), who would it be and what would you discuss??
A: I double checked my list of questions and did not find this asked before. This is a really hard question. I've been fortunate to meet a few modern day authors. I can think of several living, and a few dead, authors that I might like to meet and depending on who, the discussion might vary (i.e. romance authors v. sci fi authors v. mystery authors). I just finished a book by Brandon Sanderson so tonight I think I might like to meet him and discuss fantastical weapons and tools.
Image found at Brandon Sanderson.com

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:
Booklady asks: Q1 If you were able to meet any author (living or dead), who would it be and what would you discuss??

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 August 8, 2015 at 5 PM central.

Book Review: SEAL Team Six: Hunt the Fox by Don Mann, Ralph Pezzullo

This is a fast-paced story of military action that includes personal elements giving it more depth.
SEAL Team Six: Hunt the Fox
by Don Mann, Ralph Pezzullo
  • File Size: 963 KB
  • Print Length: 321 pages
  • Page Numbers Source ISBN: 0316377481
  • Publisher: Mulholland Books (May 12, 2015)
  • Publication Date: May 12, 2015
  • Sold by: Hachette Book Group
  • ASIN: B00NLJKMNW
Genre: Military Thriller
My Rating: 4.25 of 5.0


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.


Review:
Chief Warrant Officer Thomas Crocker is finds himself and his situation contact under attack in Istanbul, ‘...Europe’s largest city..., twice the size of London.’ He doesn’t yet know why he and his team have been summoned but they are soldiers who come when called. He meets with his local government commander with two foreigners, a successful business man and a beautiful, if fierce looking, young woman. The business man conveys news of a sarin gas located in Syria that could fall into the hands of ISIS where it would be a devastatingly dangerous weapon. The Seal Team, if given the higher-up go-ahead, must sneak onto a foreign air force facility to capture the gas canisters before they fall into the wrong hands. Then they will have to out race several different factions of warring troops covering the territory between the base and Turkey.

In this area of hostile peoples, with different political and ideological motives, it is difficult to know who can be trusted. Before their job is over, the team has to hunt down betrayers and “the Fox” as threats are made against civilians out for nothing more than pleasure on an American vessel.

I enjoy the fast-paced military danger and stealth elements of this series. But there is more that makes the stories fuller. The author shares personal emotions of the primary character, including relationship struggles he faces with his wife and graduating daughter at home. These are stark realities that many of us who do not have family members in active, dangerous, military situations do not think of or appreciate as extra problems our soldiers have to cope with.

I also liked the depth of political history (sit rep) and sensory input that add background to the military story. This is a reminder that there are so many conflicting interests in the middle east that it makes it difficult to know who and how to help and more difficult to know who to trust. Stories like this help provide some understanding, and I guess provide a vague acceptance, of our troops involvement by taking the view that war against terrorism, and keeping our defenses secure, often requires action on foreign soil. There is also a portrayal of the unfortunate simple civilians who are caught in the gritty ravages of war that is not of their own choosing. This fuels the American penchant for seeking to help in humanitarian situations even when our help isn’t always wanted or appreciated.

The story has a good mixture of history, military action, intrigue and personal and emotional investment. The overall effect makes for an engaging reading experience. This is the second story I read in the series (Seal Team Six: Hunt the Wolf) and I find they can be read fine as stand-alones. I recommend this story (and series) to those who enjoy military suspense that includes some personal touches.

I received this title through NetGalley for an honest review. It is part of my NetGalley Challenge.

Friday, July 31, 2015

Martha's Bookshelf***Friday Pick Giveaway July 31, 2015

Happy Friday - 
Sorry to be so late with this post. I got a cold last Thursday night and, between fever and a sudden funeral on Saturday morning we didn't go out of town. I have muddled through the week with my cold and fever early on. Altho the fever seems gone I am still coughing (hacking) hard. I have been going to bed by 8:30 almost every night without getting onto computer most nights.
I have posted a new picture of a book group but I haven't had the chance to input the names yet.

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 24 Pick. There was one automatic win 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 this week.
AUTO: CarolL gets The Reiver's Woman 

CONGRATULATIONS
to Random.org picked Winners from July 24 Pick:
Marjorie gets a GC
Rubynreba gets JoAnn Ross Pair

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.}
eBook on the Beach - Yes!
Image found at Reader's Connection.

New Book Group #59 July 31, 2015
A few more summer titles, historicals and mysteries!

PAIR:
Jillian Hunter: Daring and The Husband Hunt
Sandra Brown: The Devil's Own and Long Time Coming
ANTHOLOGIES:
That Summer Place (1998 version)by Debbie Macomber, Jill Barnett and Susan Wiggs  (sp creasing)
How to Lasso a Cowboy by Jodi Thomas, Patricia Potter and 2 more
Broken Vows, Mended Hearts by Lynn Stone, Gail Ranstrom and Anne O'Brien
3,2,1 Married! by Sharon Sala, Marie Ferrarella and Beverly Barton
SINGLES:
Only by Your Touch by Catherine Anderson
The Notorious Gentleman by Galen Foley (Spine creasing)
Cruise to a Wedding by Betty Neels
Little Girl Lost by Shirlee McCoy
Beloved Enemy by Terri Reed
Caught Redhanded by Gayle Roper
You Don't Know Jack by Erin McCarthy
Rogue by Cheryl Brooks

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 Tomorrow 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 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
The Man Who Ate the 747 by Ben Sherwood

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 847+ 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!

Thursday, July 30, 2015

Audible Book Review: Sector 64: Ambush by Dean M. Cole

This is an engaging story with alien danger.  "X-Files meet Independence Day" is an accurate tag line.
Written by: Dean M. Cole
Narrated by: Mike Ortego

Length: 11 hrs and 57 mins 
Unabridged Audiobook
Release Date:11-14-14
Publisher: Dean M. Cole
Genre: Sci Fi Suspense
My Rating: 4.0 of 5.0


Publisher's Summary
**Huffington Post - IndieReader Best of 2014**
What happens to present-day Earth if friendly aliens take humanity under their wing?
What happens when their enemy becomes ours?
X-Files meet Independence Day when incredible events thrust Air Force Captains Jake Giard and Sandra Fitzpatrick into a decades-long global conspiracy to integrate humanity into a galactic government. However, as Jake finishes indoctrination into the program, it renders present-day Earth a disposable pawn in a galactic civil war.
Unknown aliens with a dark secret raid the planet.
Within and even below Washington DC, Jake fights through a post-apocalyptic hell, struggling to comprehend the enigmatic aftermath of the first attack. On the West Coast, Sandra's squadron smashes against the invading aliens. Thrown to ground, Sandy wades through blazing infernos and demented looters in a desperate attempt to save her family.
Finally, with the fate of the world in the balance, both captains must take the battle to the enemy--humanity's very survival hanging on their success....
Scroll up and grab a copy today.
©2014 Dean M. Cole (P)2014 Dean M. Cole


Review:
Jake Giard and Sandra Fitzpatrick are Air Force Captains ready to fly to the defense of their country. Jake experiences an X-File type of event while helping a younger pilot friend, Vince, with night flying practice. Something approaches them and first Vince’s jet, then Jake’s, is disabled. Energy returns allowing Jake to break free of a nose dive but Vince isn’t so fortunate. When Jake returns to base he is whisked away as a criminal with no one believing his story. Hours later he is released only after swearing to complete secrecy regarding the event.

Soon after the loss of his friend, Jake is summoned to Washington to meet with another pilot friend from training days. What he learns is full of surprises that start on the ground, continue in the air and on into outerspace. Jack and his friends end up in an epic battle against the alien forces. The race to save Earth comes close to disaster.

While Sandy is wondering where Jake is, Earth suddenly suffers a wide spread and horrible attack. The ships and weapons are nothing known to Earth forces and have a devastating and large kill zone. By a fluke, Sandy survives an attack in California that takes out her full squadron. Shaken and concerned to determine if her parents, who live to the south of the attack, have survived she heads south with orders to provide needed military intel along the way. She has to fight through ground damage, danger and human looters to get home.

The action is engaging and the story has elements that definitely made me think of Independence Day, especially with a strong, kill-minded alien. I enjoyed the history of the advanced Galactic allies, and the long time civil war with their evil, alien enemies. There is some technical detail that added authenticity without bogging down the story. The ending leaves open future engagements between the primary characters and aliens. I recommend this to readers who enjoy sci fi space battle action.

Audio Notes:  Mike Ortega does a solid job with the narration. He provids a unique sound to each of the characters - male, female and alien. The narration provided a steady pacing and easy listening that enhanced my enjoyment in the story.

I received this audio from the publisher through Audiobook Jukebox, for an honest review. It qualifies for my Audiobook Challenge.

Sunday, July 26, 2015

Sunday Post July 26, 2015 / It's Monday! What are You Reading? Plus Mailbox Monday July 27, 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.


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 caught a surprise cold on Thursday and have spend the weekend trying to sleep when not coughing/hacking.

I had a good reading/listening week. I finished two audios and one ebook.  I posted three reviews, one with tour giveaway. I also posted the memes.

I enjoyed visiting at the beginning of the week.
Thanks as always to all the nice people who visit me.

These were last week's posts:
  • Book Review and Tour Giveaway: A Killer Past by Maris Soule; Criminal Thriller; my rating 4.25.  Ended.
Finished Reading:
1. Audible


Written by: Dean M. Cole
Narrated by: Mike Ortego
This is entertaining.
I received this audio from the publisher through Audiobook Jukebox.
Click on book title for full description.



2. eBook/Kindle


SEAL Team Six: Hunt the Fox
by Don Mann, Ralph Pezzullo
This has a lot of interesting detail supporting an exciting story.
I selected this title through NetGalley.
Click on book title for full description.



3. Audible


Double Whammy: A Davis Way Crime Caper, Book 1
Written by: Gretchen Archer
This is a fun romp.
I received this from Claire McKinneyPR
together with the next two to review.
Publisher's Summary
Davis Way thinks she's hit the jackpot when she lands a job as the fifth wheel on an elite security team at the fabulous Bellissimo Resort and Casino in Biloxi, Mississippi. But once there, she runs straight into her ex-ex husband, a rigged slot machine, her evil twin, and a trail of dead bodies.
Davis learns the truth, and it does not set her free - in fact, it lands her in the pokey. Buried under a mistaken identity, unable to seek help from her family, her hot streak runs cold until her landlord, Bradley Cole, steps in. Make that her landlord, lawyer, and love interest. With his help, Davis must win this high-stakes game before her luck runs out.
This book is part of the Henery Press Mystery Series Collection, if you like one, you'll probably like them all! Double Whammy is the first book in the Davis Way humorous mystery series.
©2012 Gretchen Archer (P)2013 Audible, Inc.




Currently reading:
1. eBook/Kindle (and Print)


Dying to Read (The Cate Kinkaid Files Book #1): A Novel 
by Lorena McCourtney 
This is a good Cozy/Female PI. I had this in my Kindle Library since 2013. 
I picked up print copies at discount for our Ladies Book Club on February 1.
 "Lorena McCourtney's lively cozy mysteries hit all the right notes for me, and her newest doesn't miss a chord. A quirky, likable heroine, a handsome guy, and oh, a murder. Don't miss Cate Kinkaid's first case as a PI. It's a killer."--Lyn Cote, author of La Belle Christian
All she wanted was a paycheck. What she got was a murder.
Cate Kinkaid's life is . . . well, frankly it's floundering. Her social life, her career, her haircut--they're all a mess. Unemployed, she jumps at the chance to work for her PI uncle, even though she has no experience and no instincts. After all, she is just dabbling in the world of private investigating until she can find a "real" job.
All she has to do for her first assignment is determine that a particular woman lives at a particular address. Simple, right? But when she reaches the dark Victorian house, she runs into an hungry horde of gray-haired mystery readers and a dead body. This routine PI job is turning out to be anything but simple. Is Cate in over her head?



2. eBook/Kindle



A Curse of Ash and Iron
by Christine Norris
I am 37% in and enjoying the steampunk
and mystery elements.
I received this at NetGalley.
Benjamin Grimm knows the theater is much like real life. In 1876 Philadelphia, people play their parts, hiding behind the illusion of their lives, and never revealing their secrets.
When he reunites with his childhood friend Eleanor Banneker, he is delighted. His delight turns to dismay when he discovers she has been under a spell for the past 7 years, being forced to live as a servant in her own home, and he realizes how sinister some secrets can be.
She asks for his help, and he can't refuse. Even if he doesn't believe in 'real' magic, he can't abandon her.
Ellie has spent the long years since her mother's death under the watchful and unforgiving eye of her stepmother. Bewitched and hidden in plain sight, it seems no one can help Ellie escape. Not even her own father, who is under a spell of his own. When she sees Ben one evening, it seems he is immune to the magic that binds her, and her hope is rekindled along with her friendship.
But time is running short. If they do not find a way to break the spell before midnight on New Year's Eve, then both Ellie and her father will be bound forever.



3. Audible


Double Dip: A Davis Way Crime Caper
Written by: Gretchen Archer
Narrated by: Amber Benson
I look forward to continuing Davis' crazy antics.
I received this from Claire McKinneyPR.
Publisher's Summary
“A smart, snappy writer who hits your funny bone!” (Janet Evanovich).
It’s Davis Way’s first slot-tournament season. And it may be her last. Things are dicey at work. A personal assistant goes missing, a little old lady goes on a suspicious winning streak, and a Bellissimo executive goes gaga for Davis. She follows a disappearing slot-tournament player trail to the So Help Me God Pentecostal Church in Beehive, Alabama, then jumps headlong into a high stakes holy scandal. She’s on a losing streak at home, too. Her days, nights, and dinners run together, as Davis juggles a revolving door of uninvited guests, namely her rotten ex-ex-husband, Eddie Crawford. And Bradley Cole thinks three’s a crowd. The worst? Davis doesn’t feel so hot. Maybe it’s the banana pudding, or maybe it’s a little bundle of something else. Double Dip. A reckless ride in the fast lane, and Davis Way can’t find the brakes.
©2013 Gretchen Archer (P)2014 Audible, Inc.


June 1, 2015- 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.



I posted three reviews last week and I have three so far for this week. 
I am down to nine NetGalley titles.
I'm counting Dying to Read as my TBR eBook in July. I hope to do a few more in August. 


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 still didn't get replies to several new author offered books being busy and then getting a cold.
I added three audio review titles.
I downloaded the free Audio pair from SYNC and I added 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 three Audible titles from Claire McKinneyPR
Double Whammy: A Davis Way Crime Caper, Book 1
Written by: Gretchen Archer
Narrated by: Dina Pearlman
{See information above under Finished Reading.}


Written by: Gretchen Archer
Narrated by: Amber Benson
It’s Davis Way’s first slot-tournament season. And it may be her last. Things are dicey at work. 
...
A reckless ride in the fast lane, and Davis Way can’t find the brakes.



Double Strike
Written by: Gretchen Archer
Narrated by: Amber Benson
A VIP invitation to an extraordinary high-stakes gaming event, as thieves, feds, dance instructors, shady bankers, kidnappers, and gold waiters go all in.




Won
None.


Purchased
None.


Free
Free Downloads from AudioFile SYNC 2015 for week Eleven.



March
by Geraldine Brooks
Read by Richard Easton
Little Women
by Louisa May Alcott
Read by Kate Reading


Over the past week I added 45 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 Encoragement July 26, 2015

We attended a funeral yesterday morning for a dear brother in the Lord. He died a week short of his 97th birthday. We only knew him for the past ten years that we have been at out church. He made a big impression as a simple man who loved God and never missed an opportunity to share Jesus. He and his wife, who is only a year or so younger, have been faithful prayer warriors. She has been suffering from Alzheimer's the past couple of years and only comes to church sporadically now.

Brother Roy’s family shared several lovely stories of his past and his influence on children and grandchildren. Pastor read a poem that Brother Roy carried with him in WWII. I could not find it on the internet so it may have been a private poem. It was very striking. It started by asking for protection and stated along the lines: “do not allow any bomb to burst, unless my God assigns it first.” I will have to ask for a copy.

Pastor also shared bits of wisdom written in the margins of Brother Roy’s Bibles. One was: “Before you shoot your mouth off, make sure your brain is loaded.” Another was “Any man who thinks by an inch and talks by a mile, needs to be kicked by a foot.”

This beautiful song, which I had never heard, was song live.
Celebrate Me Home.
Verses for today:
Psalm 116: (NIV)
7 Return to your rest, my soul,
for the Lord has been good to you.
8 For you, Lord, have delivered me from death,
my eyes from tears,
my feet from stumbling,
9 that I may walk before the Lord
in the land of the living.

Lord, I thank you that I had the chance to know Brother Roy here in this world. My DH always joked that they would "ride the elevator together". Although that didn’t happen, I hope he tells you that DH and I are 'on our way'. We look forward to seeing our family and friends – and You, when You bring us home.

Saturday, July 25, 2015

Sharing Beyond Books #212 Comment Giveaway for July 25, 2015

Hello again and Welcome to Sharing Beyond Books, SBB! I had another busy week and spent today at home trying to work through a cough/cold that sprang up on me on Thursday. Ugh. I hope to post this and then head off to bed.

Thanks to everyone who commented last week.
Six of us chose a flower or flowers and agreed they, at least sort of, reflected our personalities. Four chose flowers but were not sure if they reflected their personalities. Two chose flowers but made no comment on personalities, One chose no favorite and thought that matched them being a bit indecisive. The final two said they had no favorite flower.
~~~~

The regular Winner from SBB #211 comments is: #2 Mary P 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 #212 (One Question.)

Nikki asks: Q1 Is there a short series that you wish had a continuation??
A: The first series I thought of was The Magnificent Devices series by Shelley Adina. I only thought there were four books but when I looked I discovered it is up to eight so there are more for me to read. The second series I thought about was Project Universe by Pauline Baird Jones. That one ended at six books. The third one I thought of was The Parasol Protectorate Series by Gail Carriger which also stopped at five books. (I should try her other series.) I am sure there are others but I can't think of them right at the moment.

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.
There were three questions submitted for July: Miki, MaryP, Nikki. Random Org chose #3 - Nikki.

Your turn to share:
Nikki asks: Q1 Is there a short series that you wish had a continuation??

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 August 1, 2015 at 5 PM central.

Audible Book Review: Seduction in Death: In Death, Book 13 by J. D. Robb

This is another entertaining crime investigation with two of my fav characters, Eve and Roarke.
Seduction in Death: In Death, Book 13
Written by: J. D. Robb
Narrated by: Susan Ericksen
Length: 12 hrs and 56 mins
Series: In Death, Book 13
Unabridged Audiobook
Release Date:05-15-13
Publisher: Brilliance Audio
Genre: Crime Thriller
My Rating: 4.25 of 5.0


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.


Review:
Eve Dallas knows that evil comes in all shapes and sizes. She is a detective who fights for the innocent dead. The latest victim is a young woman who had fallen onto the sidewalk from her high up apartment. Eve quickly recognizes that the death is not a suicide. The evidence shows that someone romanced her with flowers and wine. Eve correctly suspects she died from an accidental, but lethal, overdose or mix of rare date-rape drugs.

The security cameras caught images of the perpetrator, and he left a trail of fingerprints and DNA. But none of that is in the system and it appears that not even his face is real. Eve and her team are going to have to go the long route to track down the expensive shoes, clothing, flowers, wine, wig, make-up traces and, most importantly, the hard to get drugs, in an effort to tie them to the killer.

A few nights later another young woman is found murdered. This time the death is clearly not accidental - it is intentional and brutal. There is no trace evidence left at the scene of this fragile young woman. Either the killer is upping his game or there is more than one person involved.

Eve is determined, as always, to get the killer(s) before more young ladies die. She isn’t beyond using a little computer help from Roarke who is brought on board as a civilian consultant to help Eve think more like a man in this process of seduction.

The plot is detailed, a bit gritty because of the sexual/rape nature of the crimes, and has effective twists. JD Robb (Nora Roberts) does a wonderful job weaving personal character issues (this episode has the estranged romance between Peabody and McNab) in the background of the crime investigation. This story also reveals the crimes from the view of the killer(s) which adds interest. These books are always reliable entertainment and I will continue to download and listen to them as there is a long list ahead.

Audio Notes: Susan Erickson does her usual wonderful job of narrating this series. She has these characters pinned with personality and voice. I really enjoy listening to the books as I can follow them while doing mindless chores - vacuuming, folding laundry, etc. It makes for enjoyable and productive use of my time.

I purchased this with an Audible credit to continue in the series. This qualifies for my 2015 Audio Challenge.

LinkWithin

Related Posts with Thumbnails