Reviews By Martha's Bookshelf

Thursday, December 22, 2011

Winners of Timesplash Audio

Congratulations

to the winners:

Copy of Timesplash by Graham Storrs + Copy of Party Time, the Prequel to Timesplash

And the winners are...

Entry #34Krystal Larson

Entry #7Lisa Mcgeen

Entry #16Linda Kish

results powered by Random.org

Winners - please email me {mesreadsATgmail.com}so I can send you the download links. I'll email you Friday or Saturday if I haven't heard from you yet. :-)

Book Review: Holiday Kisses Anthology

This is just what it claims: a nice Christmas Romance Anthology.

Holiday Kisses Anthology

Format: Kindle Edition
File Size: 627 KB
Publisher: Carina Press (December 5, 2011)
Sold by: Amazon Digital Services
Language: English

Genre: Contemporary Romance
My Rating: 4.0 of 5.0

Product Description
It's Beginning to Look a Lot Like...Love!

A man gives the gift of trust and receives a second chance at love in return. A woman helps to heal the wounded heart of a soldier. A couple finds that true love knows no distance. And a young widow learns that there can be two great loves in a lifetime. Love, romance and passion come together in this collection of four seasonal shorts.

Anthology includes:

This Time Next Year by Alison Kent
A Rare Gift by Jaci Burton
It's Not Christmas Without You by HelenKay Dimon
Mistletoe and Margaritas by Shannon Stacey

Shannon Stacey's Website : click here
Jaci Burton's Website : click here
HelenKay Dimon's Website : click here
Alison Kent's Website : click here

Overall Review:
I liked each of these stories which are heartwarming Christmas tales perfect for quick reading. These are short so they focus on the romantic conflicts as the plot feature. Yet the authors are able to give their characters sufficient depth to make them interesting in the different dilemmas they have to overcome. I had not read any of these authors and this is a nice way to get a feel for their writing styles.
Overall Rating: 4.0 of 5.0

This Time Next Year by Alison Kent
Brenna Keating is on her way to spend Christmas with her grandmother when treacherous roads and a skittish deer put her car in a ditch. Riding to the rescue—literally—is Dillon Craig, a reclusive doctor who insists she weather the storm in his cabin.

Since returning from Afghanistan where he treated wounded soldiers on the front lines, Dillon’s made it a point to avoid any emotional involvement. But his unexpected guest has him dangerously close to breaking his own rules.

Brenna has a plan for her life – until she’s stranded for three days with Dillon. Soon, the chemistry sizzling between them forces her to re-examine her priorities. The man is gorgeous, if taciturn, and a true hero in every sense of the word. No woman in her right mind could resist him, and so Brenna doesn’t – even though she can’t stay…

Review:
Brenna has plans to spend a year serving as a nurse in an impoverished African nation. On her way for a Christmas visit with her Grandmother she has an accident and ends up being rescued by a handsome, brooding ex-military doctor. Dillon has secluded himself to bury his trauma from serving in Afghanistan. He serves the local community but isn’t interested in socializing or getting close to anyone. At least he wasn’t interested in getting close until this warm beauty heated things up in his cabin in the woods.

The author was able to develop likeable characters with a tightly written romance that flows nicely.
Rating 4.25

A Rare Gift by Jaci Burton
Book Two in the Kent Brothers Series

With a disastrous marriage behind him, Wyatt Kent has no interest in getting involved with any woman, let alone his ex-wife’s younger sister. But when Calliope Andrews hires him to build an addition onto her daycare center, Wyatt can’t help but notice she’s a desirable woman, as warm and funny as his ex was cold and aloof.

Calliope fell hard for Wyatt the first time he walked through the door of her family’s home, and can’t believe her sister let him get away. He’s still the star of all her fantasies, and she’s determined to prove to him she’s nothing like his manipulative ex. Wyatt may be all business, but Calliope sees the way he looks at her when he’s supposed to be working…

It’s not long before Wyatt and Calliope are keeping each other warm on cold December nights. But it’s going to take a Christmas miracle for Wyatt to put his trust in love a second time.

Review: Calliope has loved Wyatt for years but he was married to her older sister, the flamboyant beauty queen. It turned out that they didn’t have the same goals; the marriage was disastrous and didn’t end well. Wyatt has stayed away from any involvement with women since. He would resist Calliope except she is so persistent. She is intent on proving that she is not her sister and that she is just the right woman for Wyatt. Will Wyatt let her walk away or will he try to deal with his pain and take a chance on Calliope?

This is a nice story with likeable characters. Wyatt was incredibly stubborn and Calliope had to be relentlessly persistent to get through to him. It was almost too much but the way it resolved worked.
Rating: 4.0

It's Not Christmas Without You by HelenKay Dimon
Carrie Anders officially broke up with Austin Thomas when she accepted a dream job in the city. Unofficially, she misses him and is tempted to sneak back to her West Virginia hometown to see him. That's why this year, she's not going home for the holidays. Her heart can't take any more mornings after where nothing has changed--and Austin has made it clear he's not interested in relocating.

Austin's been waiting for Carrie to realize she can't live without him. But when he hears she's not coming home for Christmas, he decides to take action. If Carrie won't come to the country, he's going to bring a piece of the country to Carrie - in the form of a Christmas tree lot just minutes from her apartment. He's certain daily meetings will entice her to come home with him, this time for good.

Their attraction is as hot as ever, but with such contrary Christmas wishes, can either of them get what they really want this year?

Review:

Here is another stubborn couple. They acknowledge that they love each other but he wants to stay in the country and she wants to live in the city. It appears that neither will compromise. Austin pursues Carrie in the city and thinks if he helps her date a city guy she will see the difference and recognize that the other fellow isn’t right for her. Their combustible chemistry reaffirms their sexual attraction and love but that doesn’t provide a solution to their work arrangements.

The author is able to provide backstory that supports the insecurities of both characters. The good romantic conflict and its sweet resolution is portrayed through an easily flowing style.
Rating 4.0.

Mistletoe and Margaritas by Shannon Stacey
Heating up the Holidays

Claire Rutledge still believes in love, despite losing her husband. So, after two years, she’s not surprised by the steamy dreams telling her it might be time to start moving on. But she didn’t expect her friend Justin to have the starring role.

Justin McCormick has loved Claire since the moment he first saw her, but his best friend got there first. Now that Claire is ready to move on with her life, Justin is finding it harder than ever to hide his true feelings. And when they both get caught up in the holiday spirits at a party, their simmering mutual attraction boils over into a night neither of them can forget…

Review:
This one was a bit more on the sexual side as a good part of the story revolves around the pairs desires that they are trying to hide or suppress. It seemed that Justin’s attitude flipped but he is able to get good advise that helped them resolve their dilemma in a nice way. Again the characters are likeable and this was an easy read.
Rating 4.0 I received the eBook copy for review from Carina Press through NetGalley.

Wednesday, December 21, 2011

Mid-Winters Eve Blog Hop Dec 21 - 27

Yikes! I am a day behind in my calendar so this is three quarters of a day late!!! So Sorry!

Thanks to Kathy at I Am a Reader Not a Writer and Jessie Harrell from Oasis for YA for co-hosting!
This hop runs from December 21st to December 27th.

No time to do anything fancy for giveaway so this will be rather simple:

Two Winners...

The Gift: $12.00 in Gift Certificate (Amazon, Barnes & Noble, etc) or book choice at the Book Depository up to $12.00 value.

Open Internationally.

If you have trouble with the form click here to enter.
Since I am late I may not be on the main linky but you can follow the others by following the links below the entry form.

Book Review and ARC Giveaway: Started Early, Took My Dog by Kate Atkinson

Mystery fans must check this out!

Started Early, Took My Dog

by Kate Atkinson

Paperback: 400 pages
Publisher: Reagan Arthur / Back Bay Books; Reprint edition (October 6, 2011)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 0316066745
ISBN-13: 978-0316066747
Product Dimensions: 5.8 x 1.2 x 8.5 inches

Genre: Mystery
My Rating: 4.5 of 5.0

Book Description
Publication Date: October 6, 2011
Tracy Waterhouse leads a quiet, ordered life as a retired police detective-a life that takes a surprising turn when she encounters Kelly Cross, a habitual offender, dragging a young child through town. Both appear miserable and better off without each other-or so decides Tracy, in a snap decision that surprises herself as much as Kelly. Suddenly burdened with a small child, Tracy soon learns her parental inexperience is actually the least of her problems, as much larger ones loom for her and her young charge.

Meanwhile, Jackson Brodie, the beloved detective of novels such as Case Histories, is embarking on a different sort of rescue-that of an abused dog. Dog in tow, Jackson is about to learn, along with Tracy, that no good deed goes unpunished.

Review: This is a twisting mystery presented with a wonderful literary bent.

The book begins with the poem “For want of a nail the shoe was lost....” The story then proceeds to follow circumstances surrounding the disappearance of children and how the ultimate impact. There are two stories intertwined by the character connections.

Tracy Waterhouse, a large awkward girl, was new to the police department in 1975. Tracy and her partner discover a murdered prostitute, and small boy who had been abandoned for weeks. Tracy keeps trying to follow-up regarding the child but reaches a dead end being told that he has been sent off to an orphanage and records are sealed.

In current day retired Tracy spots a woman she knows as a prostitute, druggie and thief, verbally abusing a child as she drags her through the mall. Tracy impulsively buys the little girl and decides she will liquidate her assets, move far away and raise the child as her own. A witness to the exchange is a sweet elderly actress, Tillie, who is going senile and mixing her screen life with real life.

Meanwhile Jackson Brodie, a retired policeman, semi-retired Private Investigator, is searching for the identity of a client who has learned her past is false. The leads have sent Jackson to interview a social worker and several police officers who handled the death of a prostitute and an orphaned child in 1975. One of those officers is Tracy. As Jackson sets out he sees a man abusing a dog and manages to acquire the dog to take along his investigation.

Tracy is afraid that one of her former co-workers is on her heels. As she and the child are slipping away from her house they stumble into Jackson who agrees to give them a ride.
Ironically Jackson is not the only one looking into the 1975 murder incident. A real P.I., Brian Jackson, is searching on behalf another client who may have connection to the 1975 event.

The story isn’t straight forward and it took a few chapters to recognize that it was going to bounce around. It requires patience and attention to keep track. The author weaves from past to present and through the lives and memories of the characters who were involved in 1975 and in current day events as the past starts to unravel. There are paralleling features in the two time lines as the characters criss-cross with twists and surprise suspects.

I really liked the detailed description of circumstances with purposes and nuances that portray the emotions of the characters. There is wonderfully sardonic humor throughout the book. The author uses poetry, play and literary references that add interest and fit nicely with the mind flow of the story. The writing has a very different feel to me ... almost ethereal or “misty” which seemed fitting to the puzzle of the mystery. The facts are tied up at the end although the future is left open and that too fits the story. There is an interesting Reading Group Guide at the end.

This is the first Kate Atkinson book I have read but I will definitely seek out other works. If you like mysteries you should try this book. Just don’t expect a straight forward path of clues but be prepared for a path that includes prosaic and meandering mind trails along with investigative twists and literary pearls.

A favorite quote:
“The interrupted journey, the unexpected gift, the unforseen encounter. Life had its plots.”

Thank you to Hachette - Little Brown & Co. for this book to read and review.

TO ENTER THIS GIVEAWAY for the ARC Copy:
1. Visit the author's website and tell me something of interest you found there. This is required for entry.

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

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

It isn't necessary to use separate entries unless you want them in different chronological order.
(Four total entries possible.)

* This contest is only open to residents of US and Canada.

* This contest will close 10 PM (Central) on December 30, 2011.
The winner will be randomly selected from all entries.
The WINNER WILL BE ANNOUNCED on December 31.
Winners will have 72 hours to respond by email or the winners form linked in the announcement.

Tuesday, December 20, 2011

Book Review and Arc Giveaway: Demons Like it Hot

This author writes fun characters and crazy plots.

Demons Like It Hot (Demons Unleashed)

by Sidney Ayers

Mass Market Paperback: 448 pages
Publisher: Sourcebooks Casablanca; Original edition (December 1, 2011)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 1402251777
ISBN-13: 978-1402251771

Genre: Paranormal Romance
My Rating: 3.75 of 5.0

Book Description
Series: Demons Unleashed | Publication Date: December 1, 2011
Serah SanGermano runs a successful catering company in a Midwestern town. After she inadvertently helped her friend unleash a legion of demons, she's been trying to hide her own newly discovered powers. Matthias Ambrose, a mysterious demon mercenary sent to protect her, has his own secret- one that will embroil them both in the scandal from hell.

Review: This is a fun story but I think it could have been better.
Serah recently helped her best friend, Lucy, unleash a chestful (plus) of demons (book 1, Demons Prefer Blondes). During that crisis Serah learned she has some powers she is intent on keeping secret. She is able to smell evil demons and if her emotions get too intense she can effect things around her even by accident. The truth is that Serah has even more secrets in her family past and in her own identity that she has yet to learn.

Matthias met Serah during Lucy’s adventure but wiped her memory clean of that previous encounter. Now he has been assigned to protect her as she is a pure blood who could save the world. Matthias has tragedy in his past and doesn’t think he would be worthy of someone like Serah. That doesn’t stop him from wanting her.

Serah may not remember their previous kiss but she knows that being around Matthias has a serious effect on her libido. She doesn’t recognize her own beauty and is sure that this hunky bodyguard would never be interested in her. Right now she is concentrating on her cooking talents and getting ready to be filmed on the reality show, American Chef.

The first third of the book seemed to bounce back and forth between insecurities and fantasies of the hero and heroine as they ogled each other but tried to keep their distance. I was at a point of “Enough already! Please get on with the story!” Finally the author moved into the substance of the plot with the added character element of the American Chef moderator, Daniel, which created some jealousy issues. The plot thickens as it is discovered who the real power behind the show is, Matthias’ history is revealed and there is plenty of action with a battle plan to defeat the threat of the evil demons.

I felt there was too much focus and time spent on the characters’ repressed desires. I had some unresolved questions (like where Serah got her money that she keep spending so easily) and some confusion regarding Serah’s lineage and just how she was to serve to save the world. I think some of this got lost in the effort to make the story sexually interesting which in my opinion was dragged out too long in the early part of the book so it may have distracted me from the plot. I think a good 50 pages of repetitive feelings could have been cut and would have improved the story. There is craziness and fun in the characters and the plot. Once I got to the action part of the story it was much more engaging.

I would recommend that you read the first book so you will understand the backstory of the characters otherwise you may feel confused. If you like the sexual tension and anticipation you may enjoy this story more than I did. As I noted, there is fun in the characters and dialogue and if you press through the beginning the story does become engaging.

Thank you to Sourcebooks for this book to read and review.

TO ENTER THIS GIVEAWAY for the ARC Copy:
1. Visit the author's website and tell me something of interest you found there. This is required for entry.

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

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

It isn't necessary to use separate entries unless you want them in different chronological order.
(Four total entries possible.)

* This contest is only open to residents of US and Canada.

Sunday, December 18, 2011

It's Monday What are You Reading? December 19, 2011

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.

This was another good reading week even though my work week was busy and a bit scattered. I finished four books and am well along on several others. I posted four reviews; two of my giveaways and three other giveaway announcements. As always I posted my regular Friday Pick Giveaway; Saturday Sharing Beyond Books, and Sunday posts.

I did get to visit fifteen or so blogs early last week. Early seems to be the best time to go visiting. Although I have plenty of work at the office I am hoping to take a little time this week to wind down in preparation of Christmas.
These were last week's posts plus Winner posts not listed.

It's Monday What are You Reading? December 12, 2011.

Romance at Random Loveswept Holiday Giveaway Announcement.

Book Feature with eBook Giveaway: Creative Spirit by Scott Nicholson. Open Worldwide Ends 12/21.

Book Review and ARC Giveaway: Hot Zone by Catherine Mann. Romantic Suspense; my Rating 4.5. Ends 12/23.

Book Review of Zero Day by David Baldacci. Thriller; my Rating 4.0.

Savings and Giveaways at eTreasures Publishing Announcement. (Twelve days of giveaways; many open worldwide - low entries!)

Martha's Bookshelf***Friday Pick Giveaway December 16, 2011. Open Worldwide. Ends 12/22.

Book Review and eBook Giveaway: Gift of the Heart by Suzanne Barrett. Contemporary Romance, Novella; my Rating 4.25. Ends 12/23.

Sharing Beyond Books #27 Comment Giveaway. Open Worldwide. Ends 12/23.

Sunday Words of Encouragement December 18, 2011.

Book Review: Paper Angels by Billy Coffey. Inspirational; my Rating 4.75.

Finished Reading:

1. Print

Paper Angels

by Billy Coffey

This was wonderful.
Review linked above.

2. Kindle

Demons Like It Hot (Demons Unleashed)
by Sidney Ayers

Hmmm - only fair.
I'll post a review and ARC giveaway this week.

Read for Sourcebooks.

3. Print (Audible)

Started Early, Took My Dog: A Novel
Kate Atkinson

I really liked this unusual mystery.
I will post the review and ARC Giveaway this week.
Read for Little Brown & Co div of Hachette.

4. eBook

Holiday Kisses Anthology

These were four fun novellas.
I'll post a review this week.
Read for Carina Press through NetGalley.

Product Description
It's Beginning to Look a Lot Like...Love!A man gives the gift of trust and receives a second chance at love in return. A woman helps to heal the wounded heart of a soldier. A couple finds that true love knows no distance. And a young widow learns that there can be two great loves in a lifetime. Love, romance and passion come together in this collection of four seasonal shorts.
Anthology includes:
This Time Next Year by Alison Kent
A Rare Gift by Jaci Burton
It's Not Christmas Without You by HelenKay Dimon
Mistletoe and Margaritas by Shannon Stacey

Line Edits/Releases:

I uploaded the print release of Love From the Ashes by Patricia Andres

Currently reading:

1. Print

Three Day Town

by Margaret Maron

I am mid way and like the writing style in this mystery.

Reading for Grand Central Publishing.

Book Description

Series: Deborah Knott Mysteries | Publication Date: November 21, 2011

Judge Deborah Knott and Sheriff's Deputy Dwight Bryant are on a train to New York, finally on a honeymoon after a year of marriage. January in New York might not be the perfect time to visit, but they'll take it. The trip is a Christmas present from Dwight's sister-in-law, who arranged for them to stay in an Upper West Side apartment for one week. While in New York, Deborah has been asked to deliver a package to Lt. Sigrid Harald of the NYPD. Sigrid offers to swing by the apartment to pick up the box, but when they reach the apartment, they discover that it is missing and the doorman has been murdered. Despite their best efforts to enjoy a blissful getaway, Deborah and Dwight soon find that they've teamed up with Sigrid and her team to catch the killer before he strikes again.

2. Audio

The Snow Angel

by Glenn Beck

I am enjoying this in the car.

On Disc 2 of 6.

Reading for Simon & Shuster
and Audiobook Jukebox

Book Description
Publication Date: October 25, 2011
A heartwarming novel from Glenn Beck, the #1 New York Times bestselling author of The Christmas Sweater and phenomenally popular radio and television host.

Rachel Price’s one happy memory from her childhood is of playing outside with her father, Mitch, on a cold and snowy day. In that moment he took her hands in his and called her his angel. She felt safe, loved, and protected. Rachel’s mother dies in a car crash a few years later—a sudden and unresolved ending to a complicated relationship. Mitch’s reaction to certain realities surrounding the death pushes Rachel away and confirms her fear that Mitch never truly loved her at all.

Years later, Rachel’s daughter, Lily, is the only light in her dark life. Rachel is consumed by an abusive marriage but too afraid to escape. On Christmas Eve, Rachel’s husband raises a hand to Lily in a moment of aggression that finally snaps Rachel out of her docile state. She realizes immediately that she must protect her daughter in ways her own parents didn’t protect her and remove Lily from the situation. Through the help of an old and dear friend, Rachel has a safe place to go, but first, she must say goodbye to her father.

As the snow falls on this Christmas Eve, Rachel learns that it’s never too late to start over. The Snow Angel is a tale about family, forgiveness, and learning to treasure our memories while allowing ourselves to move forward.

3. Audible

Divergent
by Veronica Roth

I am three quarters through this and find it is an awesome story.

I picked this up for TBR based on the fact that I like dystopia and this was getting good buzz. I am distressed though to realize that the second book won't be out until May 2012!

Publisher's Summary

In Beatrice Prior's dystopian Chicago, society is divided into five factions, each dedicated to the cultivation of a particular virtue - Candor (the honest), Abnegation (the selfless), Dauntless (the brave), Amity (the peaceful), and Erudite (the intelligent). On an appointed day of every year, all sixteen-year-olds must select the faction to which they will devote the rest of their lives. For Beatrice, the decision is between staying with her family and being who she really is - she can't have both. So she makes a choice that surprises everyone, including herself.

During the highly competitive initiation that follows, Beatrice renames herself Tris and struggles to determine who her friends really are - and where, exactly, a romance with a sometimes fascinating, sometimes infuriating boy fits into the life she's chosen. But Tris also has a secret, one she's kept hidden from everyone because she's been warned it can mean death. And as she discovers a growing conflict that threatens to unravel her seemingly perfect society, she also learns that her secret might help her save those she loves.... or it might destroy her.

Debut author Veronica Roth bursts onto the literary scene with the first book in the Divergent series - dystopian thrillers filled with electrifying decisions, heartbreaking betrayals, stunning consequences, and unexpected romance.

4. Print (Kindle)

Carrie Goes Off the Map
by Phillipa Ashley

I expect to start this mid week.
Book Description
Publication Date: December 1, 2011
"Wonderfully romantic and funny... fulfills all the best fantasies, including a gorgeous, humanitarian hero and a camper van!"
-Katie Fforde, UK Best Selling Author of Love Letters

Carrie lets her best friend talk her into a scenic European road trip as the perfect getaway from a nasty breakup. Unexpectedly along for the ride is the gorgeous Matt Landor, MD, who sorely tests Carrie's determination to give up men altogether. Careening through the English countryside, these two mismatched but perfectly attuned lonely hearts find themselves in hot pursuit of adventure and in entirely uncharted territory.

I am also listening to The Listener's Bible NIV read by Max McLean.

I am at Zechariah 1 and Revelations 16.

Line Edits: I am still finalizing two Novellas for release and continuing to work on Smashword and print releases.

December - I started out with 11 or so books to read for review. The reading and current reviews are going pretty well although I am going to move some interviews with 'pending' reviews into January.

Scheduled events:
12/21 thru 12/27 Mid Winter's Eve Giveaway Hop

Unscheduled

Additional Publisher Books Coming Up

Hachette
Little and Brown:
Help for Writers by Roy Peter Clark

Remaining Author Selections - I do plan to finish these this month/year!
Karen Wiesner -Souls on (B)oring Street [Denim Blues Mysteries Book 3]

Nathan Patrick Hardt - The Second Sonata

[To be posted:
These were read and ready for reviews for Authors. I am sending out interviews for these. I hope to post them all soon.
Quest for Magic by Jean Hart Stewart - Read; review to be posted with interview.
Seeing for the First Time (What You See is What You Get) and To See (What You See is What You Get) by Nicole Zoltack - Both Read; setting up author interview with reviews.
Steamrolled by Pauline Baird Jone. Read; review to be posted with author interview.]

Book Review of Paper Angels by Billy Coffey

I encourage you to read this treasure!

Paper Angels

by Billy Coffey

Hardcover: 256 pages
Publisher: FaithWords; 1 edition (November 9, 2011)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 0446568236
ISBN-13: 978-0446568234

Genre: Inspirational
My Rating: 4.75 of 5.0

Book Description
Series: A Novel | Publication Date: November 9, 2011
Andy Sommerville seems no different than others in his rural Virginia community, but what sets him apart is that his best friend is an angel. The angel is God's answer to a childhood prayer Andy offered to a twinkling star that his deceased mother once called "the door to heaven." The first angelic proclamation instructs Andy to find the wooden keepsake box in his grandparents' attic. Over the years, he directs Andy to fill it with apparently meaningless objects from twelve people with who Andy randomly crosses paths.

Andy's world is turned upside down when a brutal attack leaves Andy burned and the boy he loved as a son dead. At this crucial juncture, the angel abandons him to loneliness and pain. All that remains is the wooden box Andy has always kept safe, and a new angel, who will use its contents to reveal truth to him as a result, he discovers the defining truth of his life, new hope in the community he loves, and greater trust in the God who sustains him.

The story is told from Andy's hospital bed, where he awakes feeling God has abandoned him. Without being preachy or saccharine, the author brings the small town to life and reveals a spiritual secret--the presence of angels--that helps a wounded man discover the defining truth of his life, place new hope in the community he loves, and trust totally in the God who sustains him. (2011)

Review: This is a thought provoking story - not a quick or light read.
Andy Somerville is a man in his 50s who has lived alone for many years. His parents died when he was a boy and he moved in with his grandparents. He prayed for help and an angel became his confident and friend who has been there for him through the years. Although he is blessed to have the angel, it has kept him from forming any truly close relationships so he wouldn’t have to explain his private friend.

Andy is in the hospital after he is burned during a brutal attack at his old fashioned gas station. He is depressed at the death of a friend killed in the attack and he feels that God and his angel abandoned them at the most crucial time. Andy is visited by a lovely ‘counselor’, Elizabeth, who is there to help him get over his grief and anger.

Andy has a special box of mementos that his angel told him to keep over the years. During the long night Elizabeth sits cutting paper. She cajoles and bullies Andy into sharing the story of the people and circumstances surrounding each item in the box. There is an important life lesson revealed with each memory.

There are profound tidbits of wisdom throughout this wonderful book.

We’re all children. From the moment we’re born until the moment we die. We might learn how to talk, but we never quite learn what to say. And we learn how to walk, but we never stop stumbling. (Page 39, chapter 5.)

There are pine needles to remind him of one Christmas when he met a German man who hid a pickle in the town Christmas tree. The reason involves the magic and miracle of possibilities that abound at Christmas.

There is a letter that Andy wrote to a young man after he witnessed his girl friend breaking up with him. At the time Andy had no words to share. Later he wrote the letter to give encouragement, including the thought: “You don’t fall in love through the eyes, Alex. You fall in love through the heart.”

Andy has to overcome his anger to help another young man along in life. The endline message for Andy, and all of us, is that “You have all you need, and you need all you have.”

The writing has an easy flow but it doesn’t move quickly because you want to think about the messages. This story is a true gem. The story gives comfort for pain and loss, encouragement to help others and shows purpose even in an “ordinary” life - like mine. I plan to share this with my reading group friends but this book is a Keeper that I may want to peek at every so often. I encourage everyone to get this book for yourself or as a gift. Then I encourage you to not rush through it, but savor the wisdom.

I am very glad that I received this book for review from Faith Words, a division of Hachette.

Sunday Words of Encouragement December 18, 2011

Today is the fourth Sunday in Advent. We shared our Choir Program and I may share some of those songs this week.
Our service reflected the fourth Candle as the Candle of Peace.

A prayer for this week's Advent observation:
We light this candle as a symbol of the Prince of Peace.
May the visitation of your Holy Spirit, O God,
make us ready for the coming of Jesus, our hope and joy.

Verses for today:

Isaiah 9:6-7a New International Version (NIV)

6 For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be on his shoulders. And he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.

7 Of the greatness of his government and peace there will be no end.

This morning we prayed for peace to reign in out hearts as we prepare to welcome our Savior.

Saturday, December 17, 2011

Sharing Beyond Books #27 Comment Giveaway December 17, 2011

Welcome once again to Sharing Beyond Books! 8 days left until Christmas.
Thank you for commenting last week - everyone else's industry helped stir me to get more done.

Most all of us like both series and stand alones although several prefer series for the "family" of characters and the world building. Marybelle prefers stand alones and Linda and Llehn have no real preference.

I am glad that many of you are mostly ready for Christmas. I made progress this week by finishing most of the necessary present purchases. We even bought a tree today which we'll trim tomorrow. It is so nice that mamabunny13 is helping her daughters to get together for the holidays. I bet they will have a great time.

~~~~

The Winner from SBB #26 comments is: #6 Mystica who will most likely get a GC or pick a book at the Book Depository. There are still 9 'love' books to pick from, 4 Christmas choices and 2 Summer titles below. Mystica please let me know if you want a GC or choose a book from the remaining Love Books List for Giveaway or remaining Christmas Giveaway Books, the one summer book below OR pick from the ARC box and let me know your choice, your address and a choice of bookmarks by completing the WINNER FORM.

WEEK #27 Questions

Q1. This week MaryP asks: Do you read books, for pleasure, that are considered classics: Charles Dickens, Emily Bronte etc??

A: I occasionally do read classics. Not because I don't want to but because often they are re-reads and I have to decide to fit one in my schedule every now and then. I'm not quite sure which authors fit in the "classics." Just this week I purchased Fahrenheit 451, which I think of as a classic, on Audio to listen to it soon.

Q2. I have a book and holiday question - Do you have a favorite holiday story that you read during the holiday season?? (Oops I realized this was an Enquiring minds Q last year. Hope you don't mind the repeat.)

A: First, I do always like to read the nativity story in the gospel of Luke, which is read either at church or I read myself. Only occasionally have we read that together as a family. The secular story that we read more often is The Night Before Christmas.

~~~~

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 will draw from the suggestions I used the month before and that person will get a book choice or GC. I thank everyone for submitting questions but some of you others might want to get in a question or two as we have a few people submitting most of the questions so far. Either way - it works for me. :-)

Your turn to share:

1. This week Mary P asks a book Q: Do you read books, for pleasure, that are considered classics: Charles Dickens, Emily Bronte etc??

2. Do you have a favorite holiday story that you read during the holiday season??

SBB Comment Winners can choose a selection from the remaining Valentine and "Love" books or the remaining Christmas Giveaway Books - there are still about 14 books available plus 2 left in the Summer titles to choose from. Also I have added the Review and ARC Box now.

The Days of Summer: A Novel

My copy is a paperback from 2006

with a different cover.

A Summer Affair (Calhoun Chronicles)
I love Susan Wigg's historicals!

SBB Rules: a) Must be a follower;
b) Share a comment on any (or all) of the two/three questions above.
Open internationally and an international winner may get a smaller book or a $5.00 GC if I decide the mailing is too much.

I will pick a Comment winner from all comments made by Friday, December 23 at 10PM central.

Three Winners of Headover Heels

CONGRATULATIONS

to the Winners of

Three Copies of Head Over Heels by Jill Shalvis

Carol W, Linda K and Pat L.

ALL WINNERS please fill in the Winner's Acceptance Form so I can mail the books and calendars out to winners. Please reply within 72 hours!

Book Review and eBook Giveaway: Gift of the Heart by Suzanne Barrett

This author writes reliably heartwarming stories.
Gift of the Heart

by Suzanne Barrett

Format: Kindle Edition
File Size: 295 KB
Print Length: 65 pages
Simultaneous Device Usage: Unlimited
Publisher: Turquoise Morning Press (October 8, 2011)
Sold by: Amazon Digital Services
Language: English
ASIN: B005U53DKE

Genre: Novella, Contemporary Romance
My Rating: 4.25 of 5.0

Product Description
Amy Wilson struggles to make a home for herself and her small son in the Northern California town of Riverton. Widowed and alone, and saddled with debt from her husband’s failed business, she vows to pay off his creditors herself and remain independent from her overbearing in-laws.

Shay McHugh is dissatisfied with his life. At thirty-three, he has a home on the river which he has just remodeled, a white Porsche, a powerboat, and a position as manager of Riverton’s ValuKing Supermarket. But lately he finds life doesn’t offer the fulfillment he craves. Something is lacking. When he meets Amy, he has an overwhelming desire to protect her, which is exactly the thing Amy has been escaping. Can the two set aside their differences and make room for love?

Review: This is a sweet romance for a Christmas treat.
Amy is a loving and caring mother. She escaped her family to marry a man who charmed her until they were married. Then he revealed his true abusive and overbearing nature. Jonathan died three years before leaving her a pile of debt. At least she has her wonderful son, Josh. She has left her home town to get away from her critical and controlling parents and in-laws. On her way to start a new life with a friend her car gives out and she is stranded in the small town of Riverton.
Amy is lucky enough to find a friendly welcome in town with a waitress job and a small cabin.

As she tries to settle in she meets
Shay McHugh is a well established business man who has a lovely but empty house. As he watches friends enjoying their families he begins to think something is missing in his own life. His attention is caught by the beautiful Amy and sweet little Josh. It is apparent that Amy is struggling but she refuses to swallow her pride and accept help.

Slowly Shay charms his way into Amy and Josh’s lives. Amy continues to resist having her independence and decisions controlled by anyone, even this wonderfully handsome and nice man. Will Amy’s fear from her past prevent her from realizing a full loving relationship with Shay? Or will she be able to realize all that he is willing to share with her if she can give the ‘gift of her heart’?

These characters come alive as you root for them to get together. Josh is a sweet addition as a well behaved little boy with lots of little boy wishes. The community is charming and quaint as small towns can be. The author adds in some traditions regarding Saint Lucia which added interest. Once again Ms. Barrett's smoothl writing portrays warm characters in a realistic and engaging situation. This novella makes a perfect quick read to slip in during the holiday season or anytime you want a heart lift.

Thank you to Ms. Barrett for the book to read and review. She has graciously offered to give away an eBook copy to a lucky commenter.

TO ENTER THE GIVEAWAY:

1. Visit the author's website and tell me something you note of interest. Please leave your email address.

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

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

It isn't necessary to use separate entries unless you want them in different chronological order.
(Four total entries possible.) MAKE SURE YOU LEAVE YOUR E-MAIL!

* This contest is Open Worldwide.

* This contest will close 10 PM (Central) on December 23, 2011.
The winner will be randomly selected from all entries.

The WINNER WILL BE ANNOUNCED on December 24.
Winners will have 72 hours to respond by email or the winners form linked in the announcement.

Friday, December 16, 2011

Martha's Bookshelf***Friday Pick December 16, 2011

[** If you are new to Friday Pick Giveaway, scroll down a bit (below book group #19) for instructions on how to enter.]
NOTE to you Audio lovers - Timesplash Audio giveaway closes on Monday!!
Friday again -- I've been a bit scattered with my assistant out for medical difficulties.

Thank you to all who entered December 9 Pick. There were Three Automatic winners this week (those who requested the book four times and I did not note other people asking for that book during those weeks).

Elizabeth L has asked for Rogue Stallion for 4 weeks with no blocks.
Linda Kish has asked for Bone Cold for 4 weeks with no blocks.
Lieder has asked for A Little Magic for 4 weeks with no blocks.

CONGRATULATIONS

to Random.org picked Winners from December 9 Pick:

Carol W chose Lots Highways

Mona chose Cause for Alarm

and
Abby 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 or sexy +plus - I am still low on just sweet.

Vintage books made into a tree;
Freshly Found/Vinatge refreshed.

New Group #24 Pick Books November 25, 2011
(The only Thanksgiving title I found is a Harlequin I'd like to read someday so no Thanksgiving titles for November.)

~~Skin Tight by Susan Andersen (Cover has one thin black marker stripe)~~
Hour Game by David Baldacci
After Dark by Beverly Barton(spine wear)
The Shattered Rose by Jo Beverley
Final Justice by Jasmine Cresswell
Green Calder Grass by Janet Dailey
Praying for Sleep by Jeffery Deaver
Lucifer Rising by Barbara Fifield
Cry Wolf by Tami Hoag (spine wear)
Sunset Bay by Susan Mallery
Sweet Vengeance by Kat Martin
~~Lost Highways by Curtiss Ann Matlock~~
The Wedding Wager by Cathy Maxwell
Moon Racer by Constance O'Banyon
~~Cause for Alarm by Erica Spindler~~
Destiny Unleashed by Sherryl Woods

New Group #23 Pick Books October 14, 2011
I tried to pick some books that would be good for October - Halloween or dark minded.

Ghost Writer (Shivers #3) by M.D. Spenser
Witch by Barbara Michaels (spine wear)
Walking After Midnight by Karen Robards (spine wear)
Emily's Good Nightmare by Cosmic Debris Cosmic
Death Angel by Linda Howard
A Marked Man by Stella Cameron
~~Bone Cold by Erica Spindler (spine wear)~~

New Group #22 Pick Books September 2, 2011

Singles:
Tender Triumph by Judith McNaught
A Far and Deadly Cry by Teri Holibrook

Blackwater Sound: A Novel (Thorn Mysteries) by James W. Hall

New Group #21 of Pick Books July 29, 2011

There are eight mysteries and I have asterisked nine books that are smaller and would be good for oversea choices if so desired.

Coffin Underground (Inspector John Coffin) by Gwendoline Butler

Mallory's Oracle (Kathleen Mallory Novels) by Carol O'Connell

* I. O. U by Pickard, Nancy (spine creased)

Stand by Me Anthology with Dallas Schulze, Roberta Leigh and Linda Randall Wisdom (spine creased)

* Rogue Stallion (Montana Mavericks) by Diana Palmer

May, 2011 New Group of Pick books

Group #20

Singles

Luciano's Luck by Jack Higgins - Audio Cassettes

3/25/11 I did get to set up a new group of books:

Group #19

Singles

~~Second Chance: A Novel Second Chance: A Novel~~

Disguised Blessing

Rhapsody: A Love Story

Primary Colors - audio tapes

~~A Little Magic~~

Note of Peril (black strip on cover)

2/19/11 Book Group #18- Pairs!

Not all of these are two from a series but several are. Each pick gets two books.

Patricia Cornwell Pair:

Cruel and Unusual

At Risk (Win Garano)

I have finally updated the intro and Entry paragraphs here:

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 in November 27, 2009 and in two years I have posted 24 groups of 16 books to find new homes!

I have 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! I am happy to say that so far about 286 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.

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 $5.00 and $6.00 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)

TO ENTER:

Leave a comment and tell me WHICH BOOK you would like to get from the Friday Pick lists.
CUT OFF TIME IS THURSDAY NIGHTS AT 10:00 PM CENTRAL so I do not have to stay up past midnight to do the winner post!
I will randomly pick two winners to announce Friday mornings with the next Pick post.
Automatic wins are those who requested the book four times and I did not note other people asking for that book during those weeks.

WINNERS PLEASE CHECK THE WIN POST ON FRIDAYS AND fill in the Winner's Acceptance Form or email me at mesreads@gmail.com. [I will confirm receipt of the addresses- well I realize I haven't always done this. But if you filled out the form and don't get the book within two weeks nudge me with an email please!] If I have the winners e-mail I will send a reminder in a week or so....

Thanks for helping these books find new homes!!

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!

1/14/11 New List
#17

Scavenger by David Morrell
Moonfire by Judith Redman Robbins
Saving Faith by David Baldacci (Audio Book)

12/3/10 Book Set:

#16

Best Of Enemies by Taylor Smith

Sleight of Hand by Robin Hathaway

The Da Vinci Code by Dan Brown

Uneasy Alliance (Famous Firsts) Jayne Ann Krentz (slightly worn)

List #15

The Texas CEO's Secret (Silhouette Special Edition) by Nicole Foster

List #14

Blood And Glory (Soldiers Of War) (Soldiers of War, Book 1) by Larson Reed

Lines of Defense by Barry Siegel
Gospel Truths by J.G. Sandom

Here is set #13 of Used books!

Pearl Beyond Price by Claire Delacroix

This is a group of books I have had for several years but not gotten to read. Since it doesn't look like I will get to read them for another year (or more!) I am passing them on. Although as I type them part of me still says "But you may want to read that some day!" Yes, yes; along with the other 700 books I am housing! Must Let goooooo.....

Group #12

The Ripple Effect by Lynn Erickson

Double Jeopardy by William Bernhardt

The Genesis Code: A Thriller by John Case

Group #11

Cat's Eyewitness by Rita Mae Brown

Alien Chronicles - The Crimson Claw by Deborah Chester

Snow in April by Rosamunde Pilcher

Looking Back by Belva Plain

The Ring on Her Finger by Elizabeth Bevarly

List #1 Circle of Stars by Anna Lee Waldo

Pick #2