Reviews By Martha's Bookshelf

Sunday, January 17, 2010

WINNER of the 211 Follower Contest!!

True Random Number Generator Min: 1 Max: 37 Result: 18 Powered by RANDOM.ORG

I don't know why I can't get a picture of the Random.org so I had to copy and paste! The winning number was 18.

CONGRATULATIONS TO THE LUCKY FOLLOWER WINNER:

[Note the snow in honor of the cold snap we just came through! LOL]
I have e-mailed to Donnas to please reply within 72 hours with her gift card choice!

Saturday, January 16, 2010

Giveaway - 3 Copies - HEARING FROM GOD EACH MORNING by Joyce Meyer

Title: HEARING FROM GOD EACH MORNING

Author: Joyce Meyer

Category: RELIGION
Format: HARDCOVER BOOK
Edition: Adapted
Publish Date: 1/8/2010
Price: $15.99/$19.99
ISBN: 9780446557856
Pages: 384
Size: 5" x 7"

Product Description

In the hustle and bustle of today's busy world, sometimes it's hard enough to hear yourself think, much less take a minute to stop and listen for the voice of God. But learning to recognize God's voice and the many ways in which He speaks is vital for following His plan. This devotional; drawing from How to Hear From God, Knowing God Intimately, and The Power Of Simple Prayer shows the reader through a daily reminder, how God speaks through their own thoughts and feelings, their dreams, and the words of other people. Joyce Meyer reveals the ways in which God delivers His word and the benefits of asking God for the sensitivity to hear His voice. Joyce asks the question, "Are you listening?" and shares how to do just that...on a daily basis.

Mini- Review:
I'm not doing a full review of the book because it is a daily devotional and I didn't want to read it all in one sitting. This is a very lovely hardback little book that goes perfectly on a nightstand. I love the one page per day presentation! Here is a way to get a bit of Bible reading each day - at least a verse a day! If you visit the Open Book browser you can see the format and get a feel for the book. Each page is titled for the subject followed by a Bible verse. Then there are a couple of paragraphs by Ms. Meyer relating that verse to our daily lifes. At the bottom of the page is a summary recap as God's word for you today. And although it is dated for each day it can be read in any order if you wanted and can be re-read from year to year! Or it would make a great gift to pass on after you have read it for a year then you could share the wisdom with another friend!

For example: January 10 is titled: Friendship Makes us Bold. The verse is: Let us therefore come boldly to the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy and find grace to help in the time of need. Hebrews 4:16 KKJV.
Ms. Meyer discusses how our prayers will be more spirit-led when we recognize our friendship and see ourselves as friends with God. We will be more bold and persistent in approaching Him as we "grow and progress in our friendship with God." The word for the day is: "Remember to pray with the same passion and intimacy that you reserve for your closest friends"

Now isn't that a great thought to start a day?! It only takes a brief time to read, reflect and get a start with God! Maybe I can extend the time to more reading after the devotional as per my resolutions!

Many thanks to Hachette and to Valerie for this giveaway!

TO ENTER THIS GIVEAWAY:

1. Okay guess I'll make you work a little by taking a look at the Open Book browser and telling me a date and the verse reference that you find there!
Please include your email address, so I can contact you if you win.

2. For an extra entry, become a follower or tell me if you are already a follower.

3. For another entry, blog, facebook, tweet (any of those networks!) about this giveaway and tell me where you did.

(Three total entries possible -once I post the review.)

THERE WILL BE THREE WINNERS!
* This contest is only open to residents of US and Canada. Winners will receive their prizes directly from Hachette Book Group. Book information was provided by the publisher.
* No P.O. Boxes Please - for shipping reasons.
* This contest will close Midnight (Central) on January 30, 2010. I normally like to run the giveaways for three weeks but since this is one that needs to get out to the winners sooner than later, the ending is only two weeks away! The winners will be randomly selected from all entries.

Friday, January 15, 2010

Martha's Bookshelf *** Friday Pick 1-15-2010

This is post #8 with a new set of books!! You can also choose from the books left from pick#1, pick#2, pick#3, pick #4, pick #5 - all of which I restated with pick #6; and from pick #7. Use the links to see the pictures and the lists of the books still available.

Remember for the overseas participants I am willing to give a $5.00 book certificate to international winners - Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Borders, TWRP, ClassAct Books, eTreasures, Desert Breeze, etc....you tell me where and I'll set it up. Overseas visitors your comment may indicate your choice of gift card.

(sc) = slightly creased on binding otherwise all in good shape

Suzanne's Diary for Nicholas by James Patterson
The Jury by Steve Martini - Audio Tapes
~~Dream Chaser by Sherrilyn Kenyon~~
Stormy Weather by Carl Haasen - Audio Tapes
The Vision by Heather Graham (sc))
The DaVinci Code by Dan Brown
Fool Me Once by Fern Michaels
Midnight Come Again by Dana Stabenow (sc)
Speak No Evil by Allison Brennan (sc)
Into the Forest by Jean Hegland - Audio Tapes (box creased but tapes good)
Kiss of Midnight by Lara Adrian (sc)
Silent Thunder by Iris Johansen (sc)
The Nosy Neighbor by Fern Michaels
Born of Fire by Sherrilyn Kenyon
No Safe Place by Richard North Patterson - Audio Tapes
Vertical Run by Joseph R. Garber (sc)

Winners of Friday Pick 1-8-2010

CONGRATULATIONS
WINNERS OF JANUARY 8, 2010 FRIDAY PICK!

Tracey choose Barbarians of Malka.

AND

Carol choose Until Proven Guilty.

I have e-mailed the winners to send me mailing info!

Wednesday, January 13, 2010

Winners of Defining Twilight!

We have TWO WINNERS OF Defining Twilight!

CONGRATULATIONS TO:

and

OKAY - so those are a little gruesome but considering we are dealing with Vampires - sort of - I just COULDN'T RESIST!!!

I will e-mail Marianna and Wojos1979 to send there addresses within 72 hours!

Review and Giveaway - Courtesy of READING GLASSES SHOPPER!!

I don't know about the rest of you busy readers but sometimes my eyes need help!! Of course it is all the reading and NOT my age! ;D

Haley from Reading Glasses Shopper (an Affordable Style company) was nice to offer me a pair of reading glasses to review for hosting a giveaway!! The company sells reading glasses, reading sun glasses, and bi-focals at great prices - nothing over $20. You can check out the current sale plus there is free shipping on orders over $30.00!

There is a wide selection and since I have narrow eyes I choose The Southport which appeared to be good for a smaller face. I was pleasantly surprised when I received the glasses to discover the nice packaging with wooden case and a pen! There is a picture at the link for the Southport but here are my pictures:

The glasses are attractive and very sturdy but not heavy. I have been using them for about three weeks now and the hinges are still nicely snug making me feel they will be dependable for some time!
I choose magnification of +1.75 but there is a wide range to choose what is best to help your eyes.

Not all the glasses come with a case but The Dot, for example, comes with a soft carrying pouch, and the Dakota comes with a small metal case.

I had not priced glasses recently so imagine my surprise when I walked into a local department store this past weekend and discovered that most of the reading glasses were $17.00 and up! And the selection did not seem at all as nice as the Southport!!

The Company has recently launched a great reading glasses glossary and eye health glossary you might be interested in, too. Check out the links - lots of interesting data there!

So if you can use a pair of reading glasses for yourself or a friend, follow the entry instructions for a chance to WIN!

Reading Glasses Shopper links:
Website: Reading Glasses Shopper
Reading Glasses Shopper Facebook page
@RdgGlassesShopr (Twitter)

Thank you to Haley and Reading Glasses Shopper for the glasses and Giveaway.

TO ENTER THE GIVEAWAY FOR A PAIR OF READING GLASSES:
Open only to US and Canadian residents - No P.O. Box addresses. The glasses will be shipped directly after the winner chooses the style, color and magnification.

1. Visit readingglassesshopper.com and tell me what style you might like to get if you win! Include your email in your comment so I can contact you if you win.

2. For an extra entry, become a follower or tell me if you are already a follower.

3. For another entry, share this giveaway on your blog, my space, facebook or Twitter and tell me where you shared it.

4. One more entry if you become a fan at the Reading Glasses Shopper Facebook page.

You may include all your entries in one comment. Four total entries possible.

This contest will close Midnight (Central) on February 3, 2010. The winner will be randomly selected from all entries.

Note: Reading Glass Shopper provided the glasses for my review. I have received no other compensation and the review expressed herein is my honest opinion after use of the glasses.

Tuesday, January 12, 2010

Giveaway SEDUCED BY A ROGUE by Amanda Scott



Category: FICTION, ROMANCE
Format:MASS MARKET
Publish Date:1/1/2010
Price:$6.99/$8.99
ISBN:9780446541343
Pages:400

Book Description
A fair-haired beauty at 19, Lady Mairi is heiress apparent to her father Lord Dunwythie's rich barony. He has carefully taught her how to manage their estates, but a feud between his clan and the Maxwell clan is brewing as the two families edge toward a clan war - their dispute over money owed. Mairi's father believes he owes nothing, and of course Mairi sides with him.

When the impulsive and blue-eyed Rob Maxwell chances to meet Mairi in a barley field, they feel instant attraction, despite their families' antagonisms. Knowing he must put his clan first, Rob enacts a plan to force Dunwythie to pay his debt: Rob kidnaps Mairi, making the abduction appear the work of a stranger; then he and his sheriff-brother offer to help Dunwythis rescue his daughter IF, and only if, he will pay them the monies due. Yet after Rob captures Mairi's body, she captures his heart. When Dunwythie summons the aid of the most powerful clan in all Scotland (the Douglases), clan-tensions rise to a fever pitch. Love takes its own feverish course, as Mairi and Rob join forces to prevent a clash between hot-headed clans, and to protect their budding love.

I didn't realize I was supposed to be doing a Q&A with this so I had not sent in any questions. Instead I will share one of the "fun facts" presented at Hachette from the author:

While I was writing Seduced by a Rogue, a new kitten adopted us. Although I love cats, I rarely put them in my books. However, when our new kitten, a particularly fierce and funny little beast, stubbornly kept climbing all over me and my keyboard as I tried to write, somehow he also strolled into Seduced by a Rogue as Tiggie Whiskers. His favorite trick is to drape himself over my left shoulder and peer at the screen as if he is checking out everything I write. The wee editor’s real name is Willie Magee.

The kitten is a cute "character" in the story!

Many thanks to Hachette and to Anna for this giveaway!

TO ENTER THIS GIVEAWAY:

1. This story deals with threats of "clan wars." Comment here telling me if you know any families that have been involved in family feuds! Please include your email address, so I can contact you if you win.

2. For an extra entry, become a follower or tell me if you are already a follower.

3. For another entry, blog, facebook, tweet (any of those networks!) about this giveaway and tell me where you did.

4. I haven't quite finished reading to do my review but I will post it soon. Come back and comment on the review for an extra entry!

(Four total entries possible -once I post the review.)

THERE WILL BE FIVE WINNERS!
* This contest is only open to residents of US and Canada. Winners will receive their prizes directly from Hachette Book Group. Book information was provided by the publisher.
* No P.O. Boxes Please - for shipping reasons.
* This contest will close Midnight (Central) on January 29, 2010. The winners will be randomly selected from all entries.

Remember to visit the other Blog Tour Stops to read reviews, Q&A, and enter more giveaways:

Review of THREE MINUTES BEFORE CHRISTMAS by Paige Ryter

Title: THREE MINUTES BEFORE CHRISTMAS
Author: Paige Ryter
Genre: Contemporary, Holiday
Publisher: Red Rose Publishing
Buy Link
ISBN: 978-1-60435-494-2
Release Date: December 10, 2009
eBook $5.99
Pages 168
Heat Rating: Sweet

Rating: 4.25 of 5.0
Author Blog
Reviewed by: MarthaE

Blurb:
When Sydney White is hit by a huge roll of Christmas wrapping paper at her mall wrapping job, sexy pediatrician Colin Taylor rushes to her rescue. Unable to find her purse or keys, Sydney can't even recall the phone number for her brother's new home, so Colin offers his home as a place of refuge. While there is a physical attraction, Sydney knows their worlds are far apart and it'll only be a matter of time before he finds someone else in his own social class. Can a Christmas miracle save their love? Check the clock because they've only got Three Minutes Before Christmas until the magic is lost.

Review: This is a wonderfully fun story with some great, sweet bantering between the characters!

Sydney comes from a wealthy family but is insistent on making it on her own with NO help! She has determined that she hates all rich people and wants nothing to do with them. Now she is terribly attracted to the handsome doctor who has rescued her but she is convinced that she is not his class and he will abandon her after she is well again.

Colin had noticed the beautiful red head before he witnessed the hit that gave her a concussion. Now he wants to take care of her until he can convince her that they belong together! He is a character that you can really, really like!

I really enjoyed the fun repartee between the characters. I liked the experiences with the concussion and the hospital. The jealousy of another Doctor adds some additional tension. Sydney’s negative attitude towards wealth and accepting help does seem a bit extreme… at one point she really lets it affect her and puts herself in danger. I was glad when she finally softened a bit.

The writing and story moves along at a smart, almost sassy pace. I thought there may have been too much focus or repetition on Sydney’s negative attitude about rich people. Even with that the story was fun, the chemistry nice and the love and ending heartwarming! I would recommend this book for a quick warm romance and I will look forward to more writing from this author.

This is my Tuesday R&R review at SaSR.

Monday, January 11, 2010

Mailbox Monday January 11, 2010

This Meme starts with Marcia
at The Printed Page

I won The Silent Gift by Michael Landon, Jr. and Cindy Kelley

at The Printed Page!

Thank you Marcia!

During the Great Depression, Mary's husband walks out on her and their disabled son, Jack. Suddenly they're on their own in world that despises the poor. Then Jack receives a mysterious ability. Where has it come from? Can a young boy who can neither speak nor hear counsel and comfort seekers? Bittersweet and heartwarming! 368 pages, softcover from Bethany.

I won The Encyclopedia of Immaturity

and The Encyclopedia of Immaturity Volume 2

from Mrs. Magoo Reads!

Thank you Sophie!

The ultimate how-not-to-grow-up guide!

What are you Reading Monday January 11, 2010

Join this meme at:
J. Kaye's Book Blog

I got to listen to audios because of my long drive this week. I am going to have to spend serious time this week doing reviews.

[Note re codes: YGR is You Gotta Read Reviews; CR is CataRomance Reviews, BTL is Between the Line/WRDF - these are the three sites where I read and review. There are links under Some Friends on the sidebar for each of these. MBS is this blog - Martha's BookShelf!]

Finished:

PB: Soul Catcher by Leigh Bridger. From the gothic eccentricity of Asheville, North Carolina to the terrifying recesses of the Appalachian wilderness, from modern demonology to ancient Cherokee mythology, SOUL CATCHER follows the tormented journey of folk artist Livia Belane, who has been stalked through many lives by a sadistic and vengeful demon. Reviewing on MBS for author through Bostwick. I REALLY liked this book!

Kindle2: Cup of Joe by Teri Wilson. Sweet Inspirational. From product description: ...Goldie knows God has a new plan for her life, but she's simply too tired to figure out what it is. To make matters worse, sweet, shy coffee shop owner, Joe Montgomery, keeps showing up on her doorstep with morning coffee. ...As she takes steps to start a new life, with her new puppy scampering playfully at her side, Goldie begins to realize a cup of Joe just might be what she's needed all along. Reviewing for YGR. Lovely inspirational story!

Holiday in Bologna by Lindsey Townsend. A young woman visits Bologna to meet her father's Italian family whom she has learned about only after his death. A very enjoyable sweet romance. Reviewing for CR..

Audible: ---------

Audio CD: Hothouse Orchid by Stuart Woods.This is the most current of the Holly Barker series. Read from my own TBR!! This was okay but not the best of the Stuart Woods books I have read/listened to. I will review here at MBS.

**************************

Currently reading:

PB: Seduced by a Rougue by Amanda Scott. The handsome hero abducts the lovely heiress of an enemy clan. Can love win out over clan war? Reviewing on MBS for Hachette giveaway and blog tour on January 12, 2010.

Next: Hearing from God Each Morning by Joyce Meyer. Daily Devotions - I may not read this all before posting as semi-review and giveaway! Courtesy of Hachette.

Kindle2: Relative Danger by Terry Spear. "Sexy murder mystery full of twists and turns." Reviewing for YGR.

Hearts of Compassion by Eryn Grace. Rylee, A lonely daughter of a millionaire, is forced to work at a homeless shelter in up-state New York as a team building exercise for her job. She is guided by the shelter's lawyer who was fired from Riley's father's firm. Reviewing on MBS for Author.

Audible: on hold.

Audio CD: Survivor in Death by J.D. Robb. This is the first in this series that I have read and I really like it!! Good narrator too. Lt. Eve Dallas struggles to solve the murder of a seemingly ordinary family, and protect one small, terrified survivor. My own TBR pile.

Sunday, January 10, 2010

Sunday Words of Encouragement January 10, 2010

The message this morning was on the importance of Prayer - especially to end this National Week of Prayer. As our Pastor notes: God wants communication with us - to hear from us and for us to hear from Him!

We sang this song in Praise and it reminds me to Praise Him as part of our communication!
God is Great!

A verse for today:

Philippians 4:6 (New International Version)

6 Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.

My prayer, which is in line with my resolutions too, is to communicate better and more consistently with God. I hope you do too!

Saturday, January 9, 2010

Help Choose the BEST of the BEST of 2009 at Preditors and Editors!
Vote for your favorite Books, Authors, Artists, Book Covers, Publishers, Ezines, Review Sites, and more!

http://www.critters.org/predpoll/

It's that time of year, again!
You only have until January 14th to cast your votes
Please show your support
Take time to drop by to vote

And speaking of Review Sites-- THANK YOU to whoever nominated Reviews by Martha's Bookshelf! I was definitely surprised and honored!! If you aren't voting for another review site feel free to vote for mine! Thanks! *BG*

Friday, January 8, 2010

Martha's Bookshelf *** Friday Pick Giveaway January 8, 2010

This is post #7 with a new set of books!! You can also choose from the books left from pick#1, pick#2, pick#3, pick #4, pick #5 - all of which I restated with pick #6. Use the links to see the pictures and the lists of the books still available.

Remember for the overseas participants I am willing to give a $5.00 book certificate to international winners - Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Borders, TWRP, ClassAct Books, eTreasures, Desert Breeze, etc....you tell me where and I'll set it up. Overseas visitors your comment may indicate your choice of gift card.

Desperate Duchess by Eloisa James
In Her Defense by Stepehn Horn - Audio Tape
A Perfect Gentleman by Barbara Metzger (slightly creased)
Scarred by William Heffernan (spine creased)
When A Stranger Loves Me by Julianne Maclean (Autographed)
Prey by Michael Crichton - Audio Tape
The Path to Her Heart by Linda Ford (Personally Autographed)
Deception Point by Dan Brown
~~Barbarians of Malka by Justus Roux~~
X-Men 2
Hunted by William W. Johnstone (spine frayed at top)
Wedded in a Whirlwind by Liz Fielding (Autographed)
Man of My Dreams by Johanna Lindsey (spine frayed a bit at bottom)
Kisscut by Karen Slaughter - Audio Tape
Princess Charming by Jane Heller (slightly creased)
~~The Janson Directive by Robert Ludlum~~