MERRY CHRISTMAS -
CELEBRATING THE BIRTH OF OUR SAVIOR!
Friday, December 25, 2015
Thursday, December 24, 2015
Audio Book Review: Goon Squad, Vol. 2: Without Sin by Jonathan L. Howard
This is another fun collection of unusual super-powered cops.
Review:
This is the second volume of collected stories featuring the Special Talents Goon Squad characters. The action and fun continues. There is additional character development in this collection, which includes pieces sharing some history on problems suffered by Talos, additional information on Red Wolf, the beginnings of the longest member of the current team, Ian, the Revenant, and a brief history of the squad. Ian lapses into a coma while he is regenerating the arm he lost to the Exterminating Angel. He doesn’t want to dream but he does, experiencing a mixture of memory and fantasy that reveals how he gained his talent and drops hints of other mysteries. The final story introduces another villain for the squad to face.
The dry British wit shines throughout in the characters and storytelling. This is fun, comic-like entertainment. If a reader is interested in sampling this series I discovered a summer special that is free at Kindle: GOON SQUAD 2014 Summer Special.
Audio Notes: I liked the introduction by the author. The rest of the narration is shared by Gabrielle de Cuir and Nicholas Guy Smith. They do a good job infusing the nuances of the characters into the story. I enjoy this is audio format and recommend it as quick, fun listening.
Goon Squad, Vol. 2: Without Sin
The Goon Squad, Book 2
Written by: Jonathan L. Howard
Narrated by: Gabrielle de Cuir, Nicholas Guy Smith
Length: 5 hrs and 14 mins
Series: Goon Squad, Book 2
Unabridged Audiobook
Release Date:09-28-15
Publisher: Skyboat Media, Inc.
Genre: Sci Fi, Comic Storytelling
My Rating: 4.0 of 5.0
Publisher's Summary
An ongoing, episodic "prose comic" from which the pictures are summoned by the magic of words, Goon Squad is set in a version of modern-day Manchester. Its biggest divergence from the real city is that it - along with most other large urban centers - has a team of superheroes to protect it against unusual threats with which the conventional forces of law and order would have problems.
Goon Squad, Volume 2: Without Sin is composed of "A Star in Strange Ways", "Holy Fool", "Dead Man Tells Tale", "A Brief History of the Goon Squad", "Tale of Terror", and "Pomona Island", as well as an introduction read by the author.
©2014 Jonathan L. Howard (P)2015 Blackstone Audio, Inc., and Skyboat Media, Inc.
The Goon Squad, Book 2
Written by: Jonathan L. Howard
Narrated by: Gabrielle de Cuir, Nicholas Guy Smith
Series: Goon Squad, Book 2
Unabridged Audiobook
Release Date:09-28-15
Publisher: Skyboat Media, Inc.
Genre: Sci Fi, Comic Storytelling
My Rating: 4.0 of 5.0
Publisher's Summary
An ongoing, episodic "prose comic" from which the pictures are summoned by the magic of words, Goon Squad is set in a version of modern-day Manchester. Its biggest divergence from the real city is that it - along with most other large urban centers - has a team of superheroes to protect it against unusual threats with which the conventional forces of law and order would have problems.
Goon Squad, Volume 2: Without Sin is composed of "A Star in Strange Ways", "Holy Fool", "Dead Man Tells Tale", "A Brief History of the Goon Squad", "Tale of Terror", and "Pomona Island", as well as an introduction read by the author.
©2014 Jonathan L. Howard (P)2015 Blackstone Audio, Inc., and Skyboat Media, Inc.
Review:
This is the second volume of collected stories featuring the Special Talents Goon Squad characters. The action and fun continues. There is additional character development in this collection, which includes pieces sharing some history on problems suffered by Talos, additional information on Red Wolf, the beginnings of the longest member of the current team, Ian, the Revenant, and a brief history of the squad. Ian lapses into a coma while he is regenerating the arm he lost to the Exterminating Angel. He doesn’t want to dream but he does, experiencing a mixture of memory and fantasy that reveals how he gained his talent and drops hints of other mysteries. The final story introduces another villain for the squad to face.
The dry British wit shines throughout in the characters and storytelling. This is fun, comic-like entertainment. If a reader is interested in sampling this series I discovered a summer special that is free at Kindle: GOON SQUAD 2014 Summer Special.
I received this audio from Blackstone Audio through Audiobook Jukebox. It is part of my 2015 Audio Challenge.
Book Review: The Lord Is My Shepherd: The Psalm 23 Mysteries #1 by Debbie Viguie
This is a solidly entertaining mystery: good plot and warm characters (except for the killer, of course).
The Lord Is My Shepherd: The Psalm 23 Mysteries #1
by Debbie Viguie
File Size: 1027 KB
Print Length: 290 pages
Publisher: Abingdon Press; 1 edition (March 1, 2010)
Publication Date: March 1, 2010
ASIN: B00AKJXORW
Genre: Mystery
My Rating: 4.5 of 5.0
Cindy’s church is getting ready to celebrate Easter, and Jeremiah’s Temple is preparing for Passover when Cindy literally stumbles over the body of an unknown man lying dead in the sanctuary. The church was locked, and a bloody cross necklace on the floor seems to be the only clue. The killer is likely a member of the congregation, but there are hints that similar deaths have happened in the past. Are Cindy and Jeremiah dealing with a serial killer? They have to unravel the clues before Easter Sunday arrives and more people die.
Cindy and Jeremiah come from two different worlds, even though they work right next door to each other. Cindy is a strong Christian who lives a normal but somewhat dull life, working as a church secretary. Jeremiah is a Reformed rabbi with a mysterious past full of danger and excitement. But one eventful Easter/Passover week, the two find themselves working together to solve a murder and stop a serial killer from striking again. Solving the mystery should put an end to their alliance, but the church secretary and the rabbi quickly find themselves enmeshed in another mystery. Soon the two form a friendly alliance and friendship, exploring personal history and faith and growing closer with each passing adventure. Despite their differences Cindy and Jeremiah find a lot of common ground.
Review:
Cindy is the secretary at her Presbyterian Church. They are preparing services for Easter when she opens the church one morning and tumbles upon a body in the sanctuary. A dark figure rushes in upon hearing her scream. Initially she is frightened but he introduces himself as the neighboring Rabbi, Jeremiah. Thus begins an unlikely friendship as Cindy continues to uncover bodies and Jeremiah continues to come to her rescue.
The murders are being posed to represent scenes from the Biblical week leading up to Easter. Cindy and Jeremiah are intent on helping the police find the killer as the gruesome scenes escalate. The detective, Mark, has to investigate to eliminate Cindy and Jeremiah as suspects, especially since they seem to show up at each crime scene.
This story jumps right into action with the first body appearing very early in the reading. It continues at a good pace with natural dialogue and actions of the characters. The author maintains a bit of mystery as to Jeremiah and his history throughout the story which adds an interest element. I enjoyed learning details I didn’t know about the Jewish celebration of the Passover Seder.
There was a touch of crossword puzzle questions which I always find fun and Ms. Viguie adds humor through the dialogue too. There were a few inspirational tidbits but nothing preachy. I really liked the positive message the Rabbi shared to help deal with the deaths of friends and loved ones.
Although the name was familiar, I didn't initially recognize that this is an author I read and reviewed before: Kiss of Night. This was an easy, fast paced mystery and I would enjoy reading more in the series (and more by Ms. Viguie). I recommend this to readers who like a good mystery with warm characters.
The Lord Is My Shepherd: The Psalm 23 Mysteries #1
by Debbie Viguie
Print Length: 290 pages
Publisher: Abingdon Press; 1 edition (March 1, 2010)
Publication Date: March 1, 2010
ASIN: B00AKJXORW
Genre: Mystery
My Rating: 4.5 of 5.0
Cindy’s church is getting ready to celebrate Easter, and Jeremiah’s Temple is preparing for Passover when Cindy literally stumbles over the body of an unknown man lying dead in the sanctuary. The church was locked, and a bloody cross necklace on the floor seems to be the only clue. The killer is likely a member of the congregation, but there are hints that similar deaths have happened in the past. Are Cindy and Jeremiah dealing with a serial killer? They have to unravel the clues before Easter Sunday arrives and more people die.
Cindy and Jeremiah come from two different worlds, even though they work right next door to each other. Cindy is a strong Christian who lives a normal but somewhat dull life, working as a church secretary. Jeremiah is a Reformed rabbi with a mysterious past full of danger and excitement. But one eventful Easter/Passover week, the two find themselves working together to solve a murder and stop a serial killer from striking again. Solving the mystery should put an end to their alliance, but the church secretary and the rabbi quickly find themselves enmeshed in another mystery. Soon the two form a friendly alliance and friendship, exploring personal history and faith and growing closer with each passing adventure. Despite their differences Cindy and Jeremiah find a lot of common ground.
Review:
Cindy is the secretary at her Presbyterian Church. They are preparing services for Easter when she opens the church one morning and tumbles upon a body in the sanctuary. A dark figure rushes in upon hearing her scream. Initially she is frightened but he introduces himself as the neighboring Rabbi, Jeremiah. Thus begins an unlikely friendship as Cindy continues to uncover bodies and Jeremiah continues to come to her rescue.
The murders are being posed to represent scenes from the Biblical week leading up to Easter. Cindy and Jeremiah are intent on helping the police find the killer as the gruesome scenes escalate. The detective, Mark, has to investigate to eliminate Cindy and Jeremiah as suspects, especially since they seem to show up at each crime scene.
This story jumps right into action with the first body appearing very early in the reading. It continues at a good pace with natural dialogue and actions of the characters. The author maintains a bit of mystery as to Jeremiah and his history throughout the story which adds an interest element. I enjoyed learning details I didn’t know about the Jewish celebration of the Passover Seder.
There was a touch of crossword puzzle questions which I always find fun and Ms. Viguie adds humor through the dialogue too. There were a few inspirational tidbits but nothing preachy. I really liked the positive message the Rabbi shared to help deal with the deaths of friends and loved ones.
Although the name was familiar, I didn't initially recognize that this is an author I read and reviewed before: Kiss of Night. This was an easy, fast paced mystery and I would enjoy reading more in the series (and more by Ms. Viguie). I recommend this to readers who like a good mystery with warm characters.
This is a title from my Kindle library, free in 2010. It is one of the titles for my 2015 TBR Pile Challenge.
Sunday, December 20, 2015
Sunday Post December 20, 2015/It's Monday! What are You Reading? Plus Mailbox Monday December 21, 2015
I am linking with Sunday Post at Caffeinated Book Reviewer.
It's Monday! What Are You Reading now at The Book Date.
Thank you to Sheila for the years that she handled this meme.
Thank you to Kathryn for taking up the baton.
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 expected my week to be rather quiet but it turned out very busy with closing and appointments. But that is good for end of year finances.
Reading and listening was good though not speedy. I completed only one ebooks and one audio. I posted three reviews, a challenge completion and a challenge post for 2016. Plus I posted the usual memes.
I enjoyed visiting mid week but didn't get to as many as I wanted to.
Thanks as always to all the nice people who visit me.
These were last week's posts:
- Book Review: The 12 Brides of Christmas Collection by 12 authors; Christian & Historical Romance; my rating 4.25+.
- Audible Book Review: Leviathan by Scott Westerfeld; Steampunk, Fantasy Adventure; my rating 4.5.
- Martha's Bookshelf***Friday Pick Giveaway December 18, 2015. Open Worldwide. Ends 12/24/2015.
- Book Review: Unclutter Your Life! How to Tame Your Mess, Calm Your Mind, Lighten your Load by Jen Williams; Nonfiction, Household; my rating 4.5.
- Sharing Beyond Books #232 Comment Giveaway December 19, 2015; Open Worldwide. Ends 12/26/15.
1. Audible
Goon Squad, Vol. 2: Without Sin
The Goon Squad, Book 2
Written by: Jonathan L. Howard
Narrated by: Gabrielle de Cuir, Nicholas Guy Smith
This was another fun listen. Review to post this week.
I received this audio from the publisher through Audiobook Jukebox.
Click on book title for full description.
2. eBook/Kindle
The Lord Is My Shepherd: The Psalm 23 Mysteries #1
by Debbie Viguie
This is an excellent mystery.
Click on book title for full description.
The Lord Is My Shepherd: The Psalm 23 Mysteries #1
by Debbie Viguie
This is an excellent mystery.
Click on book title for full description.
Currently reading:
1. eBook/Kindle
Xenonauts: Crimson Dagger
by Lee Stephen (Author), Francois Cannels (Illustrator),
I am 30% in and enjoying the action and danger in this "X" title.
Click on book title for full description.
2. Audible/MP3
Jingles All the Way: A Christmas Tail
Written by: Barbara Morgenroth
Narrated by: Jane M. Held
I think the cover pulled me into this fun story.
I received this audio from the publisher through Audiobook Jukebox.
Publisher's Summary
Jingles is a dog on the lam. He's met the perfect person and wants to stay with her forever, but his former owners have millions of reasons why that's impossible. After escaping from uncaring owners, Jingles discovers canine paradise with Sassy Collins and her Eat Dog Eat Gourmet Take-Out Dog Dinner Shop. Sassy is easy to love, and Jingles falls hard for her. So does the town police officer, Ethan Monroe. But Jingles is carrying a secret that could destroy their happy family before it even begins.
©2014 Barbara Morgenroth (P)2015 Barbara Morgenroth.
Jingles All the Way: A Christmas Tail
Written by: Barbara Morgenroth
Narrated by: Jane M. Held
I think the cover pulled me into this fun story.
I received this audio from the publisher through Audiobook Jukebox.
Publisher's Summary
Jingles is a dog on the lam. He's met the perfect person and wants to stay with her forever, but his former owners have millions of reasons why that's impossible. After escaping from uncaring owners, Jingles discovers canine paradise with Sassy Collins and her Eat Dog Eat Gourmet Take-Out Dog Dinner Shop. Sassy is easy to love, and Jingles falls hard for her. So does the town police officer, Ethan Monroe. But Jingles is carrying a secret that could destroy their happy family before it even begins.
©2014 Barbara Morgenroth (P)2015 Barbara Morgenroth.
3. eBook/Kindle
Fatal Judgment (Guardians of Justice Book #1): A Novel
by Irene Hannon
I have been eyeing this author.
This is from my TBR shelf - 2012.
It is the next to the last title for my TBR Pile Challenge.
U.S. Marshal Jake Taylor has seen plenty of action during his years in law enforcement. But he'd rather go back to Iraq than face his next assignment: protection detail for federal judge Liz Michaels. His feelings toward the coldhearted workaholic haven't warmed in the five years since she drove her husband--and Jake's best friend--to despair . . . and possible suicide.
As the danger mounts and Jake gets to know Liz better, he's forced to revise his opinion of her. And when it becomes clear that an unknown enemy may want her dead, the stakes are raised. Because now both her life--and his heart--are in danger.
Full of suspense and romance, Fatal Judgment launches a thrilling series featuring three siblings bound by blood and a passion for justice.
4. eBook/Kindle
You're Never too Old to Laugh:
A laugh-out-loud collection of cartoons,
quotes, jokes, and trivia on growing older
by Ed Fischer
This is from my TBR shelf 2012
and my "Y" title for Alphabet Soup Challenge.
INSPIRING QUOTES, JOKES, and
CARTOONS FOR THE YOUNG AT HEART!
Being "old" isn't what it used to be. Elders today are active, fun, and ready for something new. Stay young at heart with the wit, wisdom, and inspiration you'll find in this book by Ed Fischer.
It's time to be the new you.
Live it up.
Laugh often.
Love life like never before.
You're Never too Old to Laugh:
A laugh-out-loud collection of cartoons,
quotes, jokes, and trivia on growing older
by Ed Fischer
This is from my TBR shelf 2012
and my "Y" title for Alphabet Soup Challenge.
INSPIRING QUOTES, JOKES, and
CARTOONS FOR THE YOUNG AT HEART!
Being "old" isn't what it used to be. Elders today are active, fun, and ready for something new. Stay young at heart with the wit, wisdom, and inspiration you'll find in this book by Ed Fischer.
It's time to be the new you.
Live it up.
Laugh often.
Love life like never before.
October 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 keeps me up to date.
I have read 10 of my 12 TBR Pile books; one to review this week and the last two to read and review.
I have the last of my Alphabet Soup Challenge to finish: "X", "Y" and "Z".
Welcome to Mailbox Monday.
Warning: Mailbox Monday can lead to envy, toppling TBR piles and humongous wish lists.
I received one audio review (2015) and four NetGalley selections - to be read for 2016.
I purchased two books at Audible on sale and one eBook at Amazon.
I added more free kindle titles to my library.
Are your mailbox and TBR piles blooming?
Review Titles
I received two audio titles - one requested a week ago and one requested this week:
Jingles All the Way: A Christmas Tail
by Barbara Morgenroth
See the full description above under Current Reading.
Here are four more of the NetGalley titles I requested getting ready for 2016.
The Dirt on Ninth Grave
by Darynda Jones
(Releasing 1/12/2016); St. Martin's Press; Mystery & Thrillers
I usually listen to these so it will be interesting to see how I like the ebook.
by Eric R. Asher
(Released 12/1/2015); Red Coat PR; Sci Fi & Fantasy, Teens & YA
I'm not decided if I like this cover but the story sounds like fun.
Inquisitorby Mitchell Hogan
(Released 6/12/2015);
Mitchell Hogan; Sci Fi & Fantasy
This is a genre I am enjoying.
by Paige Shelton
(Releasing 3/29/16);
St. Martin's Press; Minotaur Books; Mystery & Thrillers
This cover I love - it drew me right in.
Won
NONE
Purchased
Audible still had books on sale and I was still lining up reading choices for 2016.The first was $3.65 and the second was $6.81 (or thereabouts); total $10.46.
I now have two Audible credits to use before the end of 2015.
Mystery Collectionby Pauline Baird Jones
This is an author I have enjoyed reading so I thought I would give this mystery collection a listen.
Purity In Death Book 15
by JD Robb
This way I'll have two in the series ready to listen to in 2016.
I purchased this Kindle title for $.99:
Dark of the Night (Random Heroes Collection)
Dee Davis
I love this series. I may have read this but it is not one in my print collection.
Free
Over the past week I only added 38 free Kindle titles to my library. Titles found linked through Bookbub, Bookfun, Ereader News Today, Free Par-tay, Ignite Your Book, Inspired Reads, Pixel of Ink or Kindle ebooks.
Sunday Words of Encouragement December 20, 2015
We visited at our “second” local church today for the early service. The music was lovely and we are always pleasantly surprised that there are songs that are new to us…even Christmas songs.
The pastor gave a very good message on Symbols of Christmas. He noted that the season is full of symbols: lights, the Christmas Tree, ornaments, poinsettias, candles, even Christmas cards. There are symbols in scripture too. The primary one he focused on is the manger and surroundings of the new birth. (Matthew 1: 18-25.)
The Jewish people were looking for a king but a king is not readily accessible to everyone. Instead, God sent his son to be born in a manger, a feeding trough in a stable, to serve as simple reminder of what He has done for us. The baby was wrapped, not in robes, but in swaddling clothes. This is the first image of a savior who is available to all.
Shepherds usually are considered as “nobodies”. In the nativity story, the heavenly angles bring the message of the good news to these lowly people. Christmas music, full of joy, hope and telling of the story, reminds us that the gift of the baby of salvation is available to all.
The Angels also appeared with light in the darkness just as the baby brought light to a dark world. His light is available to all.
God loves the simple, common man, and seeks to rescue, redeem and restore, any who will believe and accept the gift of salvation He offers.
These are the verses for Peace and Light from:
A hymn for the lighting of the Advent candles
The Candle of Hope
LYONS 10.10.11.11 ("O Worship the King, All Glorious Above!")
Copyright © 2015 by Carolyn Winfrey Gillette
The candle of peace shines bright with God's plan;
The wolf will lie down and dwell with the lamb.
Our guns and our weapons, our hatred and war,
Will give way to gardens that heal and restore.
…
The Christ candle's light that shines for us here
Tells out the good news that God has come near!
God came, a poor baby, in one time and place,
To show all creation the wealth of God's grace.
Verses for Today:
Matthew 1:21-25
"She will bear a Son; and you shall call His name Jesus, for He will save His people from their sins." Now all this took place to fulfill what was spoken by the Lord through the prophet: "BEHOLD, THE VIRGIN SHALL BE WITH CHILD AND SHALL BEAR A SON, AND THEY SHALL CALL HIS NAME IMMANUEL," which translated means, "GOD WITH US."
I am so very thankful that Jesus, our King and Savior, came as a humble baby to grow as a man so that he could die as the sacrifice to bridge the gap between heaven and earth.
The pastor gave a very good message on Symbols of Christmas. He noted that the season is full of symbols: lights, the Christmas Tree, ornaments, poinsettias, candles, even Christmas cards. There are symbols in scripture too. The primary one he focused on is the manger and surroundings of the new birth. (Matthew 1: 18-25.)
The Jewish people were looking for a king but a king is not readily accessible to everyone. Instead, God sent his son to be born in a manger, a feeding trough in a stable, to serve as simple reminder of what He has done for us. The baby was wrapped, not in robes, but in swaddling clothes. This is the first image of a savior who is available to all.
Shepherds usually are considered as “nobodies”. In the nativity story, the heavenly angles bring the message of the good news to these lowly people. Christmas music, full of joy, hope and telling of the story, reminds us that the gift of the baby of salvation is available to all.
The Angels also appeared with light in the darkness just as the baby brought light to a dark world. His light is available to all.
God loves the simple, common man, and seeks to rescue, redeem and restore, any who will believe and accept the gift of salvation He offers.
These are the verses for Peace and Light from:
A hymn for the lighting of the Advent candles
The Candle of Hope
LYONS 10.10.11.11 ("O Worship the King, All Glorious Above!")
Copyright © 2015 by Carolyn Winfrey Gillette
The candle of peace shines bright with God's plan;
The wolf will lie down and dwell with the lamb.
Our guns and our weapons, our hatred and war,
Will give way to gardens that heal and restore.
…
The Christ candle's light that shines for us here
Tells out the good news that God has come near!
God came, a poor baby, in one time and place,
To show all creation the wealth of God's grace.
This is another song from our Christmas program last week. It fits with today's message.
This is a version I liked after watching many.
Who Would Imagine a King.
Who Would Imagine a King.
Verses for Today:
Matthew 1:21-25
"She will bear a Son; and you shall call His name Jesus, for He will save His people from their sins." Now all this took place to fulfill what was spoken by the Lord through the prophet: "BEHOLD, THE VIRGIN SHALL BE WITH CHILD AND SHALL BEAR A SON, AND THEY SHALL CALL HIS NAME IMMANUEL," which translated means, "GOD WITH US."
I am so very thankful that Jesus, our King and Savior, came as a humble baby to grow as a man so that he could die as the sacrifice to bridge the gap between heaven and earth.
Saturday, December 19, 2015
Sharing Beyond Books #232 December 19, 2015
Hello again and Welcome to Sharing Beyond Books, SBB!
This turned out to be a busy week with three closings at the end of week and a couple set up for next week and the final week of the year. We have a touch of 30 degree weather last night and tonight. Hubby and I had our granddaughters to watch today so I did some organizing in between playing with them but didn't get any real work done.
Since Christmas will be over by next week's post I will take this time to wish Sharing Beyond Books participants a VERY VERY MERRY CHRISTMAS and HAPPY HOLIDAYS to those who celebrate other traditions. BLESSINGS TO ALL.
Thanks to everyone who commented last week.
I was very surprised that only six of 16 have heirloom ornaments. Four of us mentioned the glass ornaments. Several people also mentioned their children's homemade ornaments. They are always special. I kept a box for each of my son and daughter. I gave them their boxes (and let them pick through the family ornaments) a few years ago when we stopped doing the family Christmas tree since they do theirs in their own homes now.
The Winner from SBB #231 comments is: #10 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 - maybe the beginning of next year, lol. Please let me know your choice by completing the WINNER FORM.
Rubynreba asks: 1) Do you spoil your children or grandchildren??
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:
Rubynreba asks: 1) Do you spoil your children or grandchildren??
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 December 26, 2015 at 5 PM central.
This turned out to be a busy week with three closings at the end of week and a couple set up for next week and the final week of the year. We have a touch of 30 degree weather last night and tonight. Hubby and I had our granddaughters to watch today so I did some organizing in between playing with them but didn't get any real work done.
Since Christmas will be over by next week's post I will take this time to wish Sharing Beyond Books participants a VERY VERY MERRY CHRISTMAS and HAPPY HOLIDAYS to those who celebrate other traditions. BLESSINGS TO ALL.
Thanks to everyone who commented last week.
I was very surprised that only six of 16 have heirloom ornaments. Four of us mentioned the glass ornaments. Several people also mentioned their children's homemade ornaments. They are always special. I kept a box for each of my son and daughter. I gave them their boxes (and let them pick through the family ornaments) a few years ago when we stopped doing the family Christmas tree since they do theirs in their own homes now.
~~~~~
The Winner from SBB #231 comments is: #10 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 - maybe the beginning of next year, lol. Please let me know your choice by completing the WINNER FORM.
WEEK #232 (One Question.)
Rubynreba asks: 1) Do you spoil your children or grandchildren??
Hmm - what a question to ask with Christmas right around the corner! I think we spoiled our children a bit when they were little. But they were disciplined and generally well-behaved when we went out visiting.
Even in the few lean years we experienced we were blessed to always have more than enough for them. There was only one year that I remember we couldn't really afford to take them out to McDonalds for dinner as we had little cash. But we managed an abundant Christmas with small gifts from thrift stores and with the help of grandparents. It is lovely how small children are happy to have colored pencils and new coloring books. And we always (even now) have stockings stuffed with practical items (toothbrushes, deodorant, special soaps) and some candy and fruit treats.
We do not spoil our grandchildren so much because their parents already spoil them plenty! My daughter is the first to admit this.
I had a difficult time selecting an image - there were some doozies.
Image found at Pinterest (credited Worthminer)
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:
Rubynreba asks: 1) Do you spoil your children or grandchildren??
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 December 26, 2015 at 5 PM central.
MBS 2016 NetGalley Challenge
2016 Netgalley Reading Challenge
hosted by Ariel at Fictively.com;
Rules and sign up can be found HERE.
I read 37 books from NetGalley in 2014 so the Challenge Level I chose for 2015 was 31-40 books or “Difficult”.
I managed 44 books from NetGalley in 2015 so I am choosing the "Hardcore" level this year:
This will equal to about 3.5 books per month, not quite one per week.
MBS 2016 NetGalley Challenge
JANUARY 2016 – ready to go!
2015 Netgalley Reading Challenge - COMPLETED Successfully
2015 Netgalley Reading Challenge
hosted by Ariel at Fictively.com
Rules and sign up can be found HERE.
Goal: You can continue to request galleys, or you can read the ones you already have. The point is to get your feedback ratio closer to the recommended 80%.
I actually stay close to 79-80% most of the time but this will help me stay on track and keep me reading some good review books.
UPDATE: December 2015 - I got my ratio up to 88% at one point but as of this post it is at 86% as I requested quite a few titles (a dozen) to prepare for 2016!
I read 37 books from NetGalley in 2014 so the Challenge Level I chose for 2015 is 31-40 books or “Difficult”:
UPDATE: December 2015 - I completed my goal by reading 44 NetGalley titles.
I didn't do quarterly updates this year so I will try to do better at that in 2016.
MBS 2015 NetGalley Challenge- Completed
- JANUARY
- Book Review: Only Enchanting, A Survivors' Club Novel by Mary Balogh; Historical Romance; my rating 4.75.
- Book Review: Exodus 2022 by Kenneth G. Bennett; Sci Fi Thriller; my rating 4.25.
- Book Review: 'Tis The Season: Under the Christmas Tree\Midnight Confessions\Backward Glance by Robyn Carr; Contemporary Romance, Small Town; my rating 4.5.
- Book Review: Just in Time for a Highlander (Sirens of the Scottish Borderlands) by Gwyn Cready; Time Travel, Highlander; my rating 4.0.
- Book Review: Hawk (The Quiet Professionals, Book 2) by Ronie Kendig; Military Romance, Christian; my rating 4.25. FEBRUARY
- Book Review and Giveaways: What a Devilish Duke Desires by Vicky Dreiling; Historic Romance; my rating 3.75.
- Book Review: Snow Angel Cove by RaeAnne Thayne; Contemporary Romance; my rating 4.5. MARCH
- Book Review: The Last Heiress by Mary Ellis; Historical Romance; my rating 4.5.
- Book Review: Monday’s Lie by Jamie Mason; Mystery; my rating 4.5.
- Book Review: Echoes (A Harp Security Novel) by Laura K. Curtis; Romantic Suspense; my rating 4.5.
- Book Review and Giveaways: A Kiss to Build a Dream On (A White Pine Novel) by Kim Amos; Contemporary Romance, Small town; my rating 3.5.
- Book Review and Giveaways: Scandalously Yours by Cara Elliott; Historical Romance; my rating 4.5. APRIL
- Book Review: A Hope Remembered by Stacy Henrie; Historical Romance, WWI; my rating 4.25
- Book Review: Shadow Study (Soulfinders) by Maria V. Snyder; Fantasy; my rating 4.5.
- Book Review: The Fire Sermon by Francesca Haig; Fantasy, Dystopian, Post Apocalyptic; my rating 4.0.
- Book Review and Giveaways: Fringe Benefits (The Ladies Who Lunch) by Sandy James; Contemporary Romance, Small Town; my rating 3.75.
- Book Review and Giveaways: Sinfully Yours (The Hellions of High Street) by Cara Elliott; Historical Romance; my rating 4.25. MAY
- Book Review: The Shadow Cartel (The Dominic Grey Series) by Layton Green; Mystery Suspense, Thriller, my rating 4.25.
- Book Review: Letters to the Lost by Iona Grey; Historic Romance, Romance; my rating 4.5.
- Book Review and Tour Giveaway: Once Upon a SEAL (Lucky Thirteen Book 5) by S.M. Butler; Contemporary Romance; my rating 4.0.
- Book Review: Grey (The Romany Outcasts Series, Book 1) by Christi J. Whitney; Paranormal, YA; my rating 4.25.
- Book Review and Giveaways: Passionately Yours (The Hellions of High Street) by Cara Elliott; Historical Romance; my rating 4.0. JUNE
- Book Review: Judas the Apostle by Van Mayhall Jr.; Biblical thriller; my rating 4.0.
- Book Review and Giveaway: A New Hope (Thunder Point series) by Robyn Carr; Contemporary Romance, Small Town; my rating 4.5. JULY
- Book Review and Blitz Giveaway: A Promise of Forever (A Tallgrass Novel Book 1) by Marilyn Pappano; Contemporary Romance, Small Town; my rating 4.5. US and Canada; Ends 7/11/2015.
- Book Review: SEAL Team Six: Hunt the Fox by Don Mann, Ralph Pezzullo; Military Thriller; my rating 4.25.
- Book Review: A Curse of Ash and Iron by Christine Norris; Fantasy, Steampunk, Fairy Tale; my rating 4.5.
- Book Review: Footsteps in the Sky by Greg Keyes; Science Fiction; my rating 4.25. AUGUST
- Book Review: Plantation Shudders: A Cajun Country Mystery (A Cajun Country Mystery) by Ellen Byron; Cozy Mystery; my rating 4.25.
- Book Review: Dark Horse by Michelle Diener; Sci Fi, Space Opera; my rating 5.0.
- Book Review: A City Called Smoke: The Territory 2 by Justin Woolley; Science Fiction, Action Adventure; my rating 4.25.
- Book Review: To Honor You Call Us (Man of War Book 1) by H. Paul Honsinger; Sci Fi Military, Space Opera; my rating 5.0.
- Book Review: Secrets at Maple Syrup Farm (Once in a Lifetime) by Rebecca Raisin; Small Town, Contemporary Romance; my rating 3.75. SEPTEMBER
- Book Review: The Banished of Muirwood (Covenant of Muirwood Book 1) by Jeff Wheeler; Fantasy; my rating 4.25.
- Book Review: Death of the Blue Flower by Roxann Hill; Mystery, Crime Thriller; my rating 4.5.
- Book Review (Plus Giveaway Link): The Last Chance Christmas Ball - Collection of Eight Wonderful Authors; Historical Romance, Holiday; my rating 4.5.
- Book Review: Harriet Wolf's Seventh Book of Wonders: A Novel by Julianna Baggott Women's Fiction; my rating 4.5.
- Book Review: Children of the Comet by Donald Moffitt; Sci Fi, Fantasy; my rating 4.25. OCTOBER
- Book Review: Love in the Details: A November Wedding Story (A Year of Weddings Novella) by Becky Wade; Contemporary Romance, Novella; my rating 4.5.
- Book Review: Whispers in the Reading Room (The Chicago World's Fair Mystery Series Book 3) by Shelley Gray; Historical Romance, Inspirational, Mystery; my rating 5.0. NOVEMBER
- Book Review and Tour Giveaway: Steal Me (NYPD's Finest) by Lauren Layne ; Romantic Suspense; my rating 4.5.
- Book Review: Nirvana (Nirvana Series Book 1) by J.R. Stewart; Sci Fi, Fantasy, Dystopian; my rating 4.0.
- Book Review: Joy to the Worlds: Mysterious Speculative Fiction for the Holidays by Four Authors; Speculative Fiction; my rating 4.25. DECEMBER
- Book Review: The 12 Brides of Christmas Collection by 12 authors; Christian & Historical Romance; my rating 4.25+.
Friday, December 18, 2015
Book Review: Unclutter Your Life! How to Tame Your Mess, Calm Your Mind, Lighten your Load by Jen Williams
This book provides great tools to help get uncluttered and stay uncluttered.
Review:
This is a wonderful, quick book of detailed plans for uncluttering. It is only 40 pages long but it is packed with great tips. By sheer coincidence I was doing some uncluttering while I listened to this (my Kindle reads to me). But I am very guilty of a) collecting clutter and b) sorting only to set the boxes in another place instead of removing them to either trash or donation facility.
As an older couple I am aware that my husband and I have collected lots of things we don’t use. Bit by bit I have become aware that weI need to give away things so others can use what is sitting on our shelves and in our closets and drawers. I can see a big benefit in uncluttering just by traveling in a Motorhome. It is a small space and everything needs to have its own place and there is no room for unnecessary baggage. (I also spent a lot of time on boats which are small spaces too.) Also, I have slowly been implementing strategies in my office to help keep my desk less cluttered and it is a nice feeling to walk in and not have files on every surface.
These sort of facts are mentioned in the book and a nice thing is the author gives you a choice of plans and strategies since there is no one plan that fits every personality. There are fast plans and slower methods and even a choice of how and where to start. Granted, a lot of the information may seem basic common sense. But the plans and strategies help provide specifics to get the job done.
The suggestions even include hiring a professional if you can't do it yourself. I had a friend who was cleaning house for me for a while and she always was good at throwing away and organizing. I think I would prefer to do it myself because I could sort through things to discard, keep and giveaway. On the other hand, that may be a sign of not letting go enough. In any event I need to find time to sit down and pick a plan so that I can seriously begin to unclutter.
I thought it would help to see the table of Contents (which is available to see on the Look Inside at Kindle.)
Chapter 1: The Benefits of Uncluttering
Chapter 2: What Should I Do With My…? Clutter Defined
Chapter 3: What Makes It So Difficult?
Chapter 4: Action Plans for Success
Chapter 5: Seven Strategies to Unclutter
Chapter 6: Escaping the Clutter Trap: Creating New Habits
Chapter 7: When Clutter Is A Mental Illness: How to Help Those You Love
Conclusion and First Steps
I found the book useful and plan to re-read it as I set up my plan to tackle clutter. I highly recommend this to anyone who needs to unclutter and create new habits to stay uncluttered! $5.00 might seem a lot for 40 pages but I think the content makes it worth the price.
by Jen Williams
File Size: 689 KB
Print Length: 39 pages
Publication Date: July 19, 2012
ASIN: B008ND0OE8
Genre: NonFiction
My Rating: 4.5 of 5.0
Escape the evil grip of clutter!
Unclutter Your Life: How to Tame Your Mess, Calm Your Mind, and Lighten Your Load reveals exactly how to gain control of your stuff and your life. It’s 40 pages of no-nonsense, simple, straightforward and meaningful information.
Come along on a journey of life assessment, self-discovery and goal setting that brings you closer to living a clutter-free life than ever before. Along the way you’ll learn the health, emotional and time-wasting impacts of clutter in your life and your surroundings. You’ll understand the behavioral and psychological reasons why you clutter. And you’ll know exactly what it takes to break free of clutter’s grip – once and for all!
So scroll up, click "buy" and start to unclutter your life today!
Review:
This is a wonderful, quick book of detailed plans for uncluttering. It is only 40 pages long but it is packed with great tips. By sheer coincidence I was doing some uncluttering while I listened to this (my Kindle reads to me). But I am very guilty of a) collecting clutter and b) sorting only to set the boxes in another place instead of removing them to either trash or donation facility.
As an older couple I am aware that my husband and I have collected lots of things we don’t use. Bit by bit I have become aware that weI need to give away things so others can use what is sitting on our shelves and in our closets and drawers. I can see a big benefit in uncluttering just by traveling in a Motorhome. It is a small space and everything needs to have its own place and there is no room for unnecessary baggage. (I also spent a lot of time on boats which are small spaces too.) Also, I have slowly been implementing strategies in my office to help keep my desk less cluttered and it is a nice feeling to walk in and not have files on every surface.
These sort of facts are mentioned in the book and a nice thing is the author gives you a choice of plans and strategies since there is no one plan that fits every personality. There are fast plans and slower methods and even a choice of how and where to start. Granted, a lot of the information may seem basic common sense. But the plans and strategies help provide specifics to get the job done.
The suggestions even include hiring a professional if you can't do it yourself. I had a friend who was cleaning house for me for a while and she always was good at throwing away and organizing. I think I would prefer to do it myself because I could sort through things to discard, keep and giveaway. On the other hand, that may be a sign of not letting go enough. In any event I need to find time to sit down and pick a plan so that I can seriously begin to unclutter.
I thought it would help to see the table of Contents (which is available to see on the Look Inside at Kindle.)
Chapter 1: The Benefits of Uncluttering
Chapter 2: What Should I Do With My…? Clutter Defined
Chapter 3: What Makes It So Difficult?
Chapter 4: Action Plans for Success
Chapter 5: Seven Strategies to Unclutter
Chapter 6: Escaping the Clutter Trap: Creating New Habits
Chapter 7: When Clutter Is A Mental Illness: How to Help Those You Love
Conclusion and First Steps
I found the book useful and plan to re-read it as I set up my plan to tackle clutter. I highly recommend this to anyone who needs to unclutter and create new habits to stay uncluttered! $5.00 might seem a lot for 40 pages but I think the content makes it worth the price.
This book qualifies for "U" in my Alphabet Soup Challenge. It is a free Kindle book I downloaded in 2013 so it is a TBR book too.
Martha's Bookshelf***Friday Pick Giveaway December 18, 2015
Happy Friday.
This week started out open and ended up booked. Fortunately I feel I was able to maintain some cool.I am still not ready for Christmas. DH and I made plans to go shopping this week but we cancelled. *SIGH* again.
We are back to regular two random winners now.
ACK - I still haven't done the GCs as Saturday tumbled into something else. I will be working on that this weekend. I hope to pull together another box of books to post.
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 too 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 December 11 Pick. There were two automatic wins this week. (I guess because so many have been winning this month.) Automatic wins are those who requested the book four times without other people asking for that book during those weeks. There were no blocked titles.
AUTO: bn100 gets Driven by Desire and
CarolNW gets Secret Life of Bees
All winners please fill in the Winner's Acceptance Formor 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.}
New Book Group #62 November 6, 2015
(I was getting ready to leave the office and realized I hadn't taken the photo of the books yet.
I took this very quickly. I may try to get another next week but this will have to do for now.)
PAIRS
Joan Johnston – Colter’s Wife and The Rivals
Nora Roberts – Born in Ice and Carnal Innocence
SINGLES
The Wedding Night by Jane Ann Krentz
The Marriage Prize by Virginia Henley
In Shelter Cove by Barbara Freethy
Into the Valley by Rosanne Bittner
Never Look Back by Linda Lael Miller
The Sleeping Doll by Jeffery Deaver – CD Audiobook
Touch Me by Beverly Rae (personally autographed)
Driven by Desire by LuAnn McLane (personally autographed)
To Marry a British Lord by Judith Obrien
A Highlander For Christmas by Sandy Blair
A Midnight Clear by Katherine Stone (slight seam creasing)
Silver Bells by JoAnn Ross, Fern Michaels, Mary Burton, Judy Duarte
New Book Group #61 October 30, 2015
After I noticed the trend I went on a hunt for “bride” titles. I even pulled a couple from some of my long time collections(*). (But they are not getting read on my shelves.)
PAIRS:
Leigh Greenwood – The Reluctant Bride and The Independent Bride
Jane Feather(*) – The Hostage Bride and The Accidental Bride
SINGLES:
The de Burgh Bride by Deborah Simmons
The Forever Bride by Evelyn Rogers (Seam creasing)
Short Straw Bride by Dallas Schultz
The Bride Thief by Susan Spencer Paul
Bride by Stella Cameron (Seam creasing) (*)
An Unwilling Bride by Jo Beverley (*)
Bride Enchanted by Edith Layton
The Maiden Bride by Linda Needham (hardback)
Bride of Lochbarr by Margaret Moore (*)
The Ideal Bride by Stephanie Laurens (*)
Honor’s Bride by Galye Wilson
A Necessary Bride by Debra Mullins
Border Bride by Deborah Hale
New Book Group #60 September 18, 2015
A set of "haunting" tales and a few mysteries for October!
Shannon Drake – Realm of Shadows (Alliance Vampires#4)
SINGLES:
Bloody Good by Georgia Evans
Cat of Nine Tales by Deborah Macgillivray
The Shadowing by Joan Overfield
The Renegade Hunter by Lynsay Sands
Trilogy Of Mysteries Audio Book Shadow Prey, There Was A Little Girl, Smokescreen Audio Cassettes (NOT CDs)
New Book Group #59 July 31, 2015
A few more summer titles, historicals and mysteries!
ANTHOLOGIES:
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:
Cruise to a Wedding by Betty Neels
Little Girl Lost by Shirlee McCoy
You Don't Know Jack by Erin McCarthy
New Book Group #58 June 26, 2015
-- A few summer titles, a few mysteries, a few historicals...
SINGLES:
Sevant, The Awakening by L.L. Foster
New Book Group #57 May 1, 2015
SINGLES:
A Little Bit Wild by Victoria Dahl
The Ruthless Greek's Virgin Princess by Trish Morey
Rally Fever by Crea Jones
New Book Group #56 March 20, 2015
(I'll try to get the rest linked another day.)
SINGLES:
The Sweetheart Dance by Patti Ann Colt
Raintree Haunted by Linda Winstead Jones (spine creases)
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 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
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
Remember Me by Mary Higgins Clark
A Lady of Consequence by Mary Nichols
Sweet Talking Man by Betina Krain
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 almost six years I have posted 62 groups of 16 (992) books to find new homes! (as of November 6, 2015).
I am happy to say that so far about 906+ 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!
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!
This week started out open and ended up booked. Fortunately I feel I was able to maintain some cool.I am still not ready for Christmas. DH and I made plans to go shopping this week but we cancelled. *SIGH* again.
We are back to regular two random winners now.
ACK - I still haven't done the GCs as Saturday tumbled into something else. I will be working on that this weekend. I hope to pull together another box of books to post.
TO ENTER FRIDAY PICK
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 too 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 December 11 Pick. There were two automatic wins this week. (I guess because so many have been winning this month.) Automatic wins are those who requested the book four times without other people asking for that book during those weeks. There were no blocked titles.
AUTO: bn100 gets Driven by Desire and
CarolNW gets Secret Life of Bees
CONGRATULATIONS
to Random.org picked Winners from December 11 Pick:
Carol L gets Bride Enchanted
to Random.org picked Winners from December 11 Pick:
Carol L gets Bride Enchanted
Nikki gets a GC
All winners please fill in the Winner's Acceptance Form
Isn't this a lovely idea?
Image found at Sugarbeecrafts.
New Book Group #62 November 6, 2015
(I was getting ready to leave the office and realized I hadn't taken the photo of the books yet.
I took this very quickly. I may try to get another next week but this will have to do for now.)
PAIRS
SINGLES
The Wedding Night by Jane Ann Krentz
The Marriage Prize by Virginia Henley
Into the Valley by Rosanne Bittner
Touch Me by Beverly Rae (personally autographed)
To Marry a British Lord by Judith Obrien
A Midnight Clear by Katherine Stone (slight seam creasing)
New Book Group #61 October 30, 2015
After I noticed the trend I went on a hunt for “bride” titles. I even pulled a couple from some of my long time collections(*). (But they are not getting read on my shelves.)
PAIRS:
Leigh Greenwood – The Reluctant Bride and The Independent Bride
SINGLES:
The Forever Bride by Evelyn Rogers (Seam creasing)
Short Straw Bride by Dallas Schultz
Bride by Stella Cameron (Seam creasing) (*)
The Maiden Bride by Linda Needham (hardback)
Bride of Lochbarr by Margaret Moore (*)
The Ideal Bride by Stephanie Laurens (*)
Honor’s Bride by Galye Wilson
A Necessary Bride by Debra Mullins
Border Bride by Deborah Hale
New Book Group #60 September 18, 2015
A set of "haunting" tales and a few mysteries for October!
Shannon Drake – Realm of Shadows (Alliance Vampires#4)
SINGLES:
Bloody Good by Georgia Evans
Cat of Nine Tales by Deborah Macgillivray
The Shadowing by Joan Overfield
The Renegade Hunter by Lynsay Sands
Trilogy Of Mysteries Audio Book Shadow Prey, There Was A Little Girl, Smokescreen Audio Cassettes (NOT CDs)
New Book Group #59 July 31, 2015
A few more summer titles, historicals and mysteries!
ANTHOLOGIES:
Broken Vows, Mended Hearts by Lynn Stone, Gail Ranstrom and Anne O'Brien
SINGLES:
Cruise to a Wedding by Betty Neels
Little Girl Lost by Shirlee McCoy
You Don't Know Jack by Erin McCarthy
New Book Group #58 June 26, 2015
-- A few summer titles, a few mysteries, a few historicals...
SINGLES:
Sevant, The Awakening by L.L. Foster
New Book Group #57 May 1, 2015
SINGLES:
A Little Bit Wild by Victoria Dahl
The Ruthless Greek's Virgin Princess by Trish Morey
Rally Fever by Crea Jones
New Book Group #56 March 20, 2015
(I'll try to get the rest linked another day.)
SINGLES:
The Sweetheart Dance by Patti Ann Colt
Raintree Haunted by Linda Winstead Jones (spine creases)
New Book Group #55 February 5, 2015
(I'll try to get the rest linked another day.)
If I Had You by Deborah Bedford
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 Hidden Truth of Cytech's Randall Forty byVickie Kennedy
First to Fight Anthology
Jezebel by Katherine Sutcliff
The Commander by Kate Bridges
The Cinderella Plan by Margaret Daley
A Garden of Friends by Penny Pierce Rose
Richard Paul Evans PAIR: The Looking Glass and The Carousel
Undateable by Ellen Rakieten & Anne Coyle
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)
Whisper on the Wind by Joan Smith
A Lady of Consequence by Mary Nichols
Sweet Talking Man by Betina Krain
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)
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 almost six years I have posted 62 groups of 16 (992) books to find new homes! (as of November 6, 2015).
I am happy to say that so far about 906+ 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!
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