Reviews By Martha's Bookshelf

Sunday Post March 31, 2024/It's Monday! What are You Reading? Plus Mailbox Monday April 1, 2024

2024-03-31T23:10:00.002-05:00

I am linking with Sunday Post at Caffeinated Book Reviewer.

It's Monday! What Are You Reading? now at The Book Date (at Wordpress)

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 did get good work done last week and we had a couple of closings. I'll be pushing through work this coming week as I have some travel coming up.

I have an eye doctor appointment this week. I hope he can give some direction on how to improve my blurring vision.

I forgot to take a "before" picture of fuzzy Bear, but here he is after his grooming visit!

I did boxing most of the weekend and have 7 boxes in the car to go out to our Woman's Club yard sale. That was my exercise this week.

I will continue to pray for the Advent messages all year: Hope, Peace, Joy, and Love.

We had some cooler days and rain early in the week but over the weekend it got warmer and tomorrow is supposed to be 82.

I finished two audiobook and made slow progress in my ebooks. I did a review at Goodreads, but have two still to do.

I visited 12 blogs last week
Audiobooks.com is still sharing some free listens for children.

Sunday Post March 24, 2024/It's Monday! What are You Reading? Plus Mailbox Monday March 25, 2024.

MarthaE Cooking #11.

Sunday Words of Encouragement March 31, 2024 - Resurrection Victory!

Finished Reading:
1. Audible on Smartphone (TBR).

Chosen
The Warrior Chronicles, Book 1
By: K. F. Breene
Narrated by: Caitlin Davies
Genre: Action, Adventure, Epic.
Length: 10 hrs and 51 mins.
My Rating: 4.0. I liked this adventure fantasy - mostly. The primary female character was a bit annoying with lack of trust and sexual discussion that I found crass. I haven't decided yet if I will continue the series.
2024TBR and 2024Audiobook goals.
Source: 5/12/19 Audible Credit.
Click on link to see full description.

2. Audio on Smartphone (TBR).

6/20/2020 2 for 1 Audiobooks.com
Dog on It
Written By: Spencer Quinn
Narrated By: Jim Frangione
Publisher: Recorded Books
Date: February 2009
Genre: Mystery, Police Detective
Duration: 9 hours 42 minutes
My Rating 4.0. This is told from the POV of the dog, Chet. It is an easy listen and a lighter mystery. My Review at Goodreads.
2024TBR and 2024Audiobook goals.
Source: 6/20/2020 2 for 1 Audiobooks.com.
Click on link to see full description.

Currently Reading:

1. Audible on Smartphone (TBR).

Monster Hunter Guardian
Monster Hunter International, Book 7
By: Larry Correia, Sarah A. Hoyt
Narrated by: Bailey Carr
Genre: Action, Adventury, Fantasy, Paranormal
Length: 12 hrs and 57 mins
I was in the mood for action and picked this series that I have enjoyed. This one is a little different as it is about the main female character and narrated by a female.
2024TBR and 2024Audiobook goals.
Source: February 2022 Audible Credit.
Publisher's summary
New entry in the best-selling Monster Hunter International series by Dragon Award-winning authors Larry Correia and Sarah A. Hoyt
When Owen Pitt and the rest of the Monster Hunter International crew are called away to mount a month’s-long rescue mission in a monster-infested nightmare dimension, Julie Shackleford - Owen’s wife and descendant of MHI founder Bubba Shackleford - is left behind. Her task: hold down the fort and take care of her new baby son Ray. Julie’s devoted to the little guy, but the slow pace of office work and maternity leave are starting to get to her. But when a routine field call brings her face-to-face with an unspeakable evil calling itself Brother Death, she’ll get more excitement than she ever hoped for.
Julie is the Guardian of a powerful ancient artifact known as the Kamaresh Yar, and Brother Death wants it. In the wrong hands, it could destroy reality as we know it. Julie would die before giving it up.
Then Ray goes missing, taken by Brother Death. The price for his safe return: the Kamaresh Yar. If Julie doesn’t hand over the artifact it means death - or worse - for baby Ray. With no other choice left to her, Julie agrees to Brother Death’s demands. But when you’re dealing with an ancient evil, the devil is in the details.
To reclaim her son, Julie Shackleford will have to fight her way through necromantic death cults, child-stealing monsters, and worse. And she’ll have to do it all before Brother Death can unleash the Kamaresh Yar.
It’s one woman against an army of monsters. But Julie Shackleford is no ordinary woman - she’s one tough mother!
©2019 Larry Correia & Sarah A. Hoyt (P)2019 Audible, Inc.

2. Audio on Smartphone (TBR).
I haven't picked an "E" title yet so might pass over to "F" for now.
We'll see as the week progresses what I feel like.

3. eBook - NetGalley App on Smartphone (NGeB2024)

The Wild Lavender Bookshop
by Jodi Thomas
Pub Date 23 Apr 2024 | Archive Date 07 May 2024
Genre: Contemporary, Romance, Small Town, Western.
I made little progress on this as I was spending a bit more time on the other NetGalley with the goal to finish it!. ! am 35% in and still enjoying the quirky characters.
2024NetGalley and 2024ebook Goals.
Source: 1/4/2024 NetGalley.

Sort of ON HOLD. Kindle (/NetGalley ) App on Smartphone (NGeB2023)

The Altered Moon 2: The Tyrant of Unity
By James McGettigan, Jingjing Huntley (Photographer), Fabiana Granado, Kyle Davis, Jason Frank, Serena Lucatero, Jacqui Corn-Uys (Editor), Anthony McGettigan (Editor), Judy McGettigan (Editor)
Genre: Alien Invasion, Space Sci Fi.
This is still reading slowly. I have reached 80%.
Although I am reading the other NetGalley ebook, I open this each day to read on the Kindle App.
Source: December 27, 2023 NetGalley.
2024TBR, 2024NetGalley, 2024Alphabet, and 2024ebook Goals.
Click on link to see full description.

I only have one letter left for my Alphabet Challenge: X. You might note I am proceeding through the Alphabet again but trying to pull from older year TBRs.

March 31, 2024 - I am enjoying the YouVersion App called The Bible Recap with Tara Leigh Cobble. (The link is to the plan online.) We are now reading Judges where the Israelites are settling into their new lands.
I appreciate how Tara Leigh Cobble's discussion points out each day that "God is where the Joy is."
I finished the 40 day study for Lent: Hillsong: 40 Days of Revival.
Now I am reading a 5 day study: After the Resurrection.

I finished two books; reviewed one at Goodreads.

NETGALLEY STATUS--
I have started my next ebook. I still have an older audio on my shelf I need to listen to.
I still have the two old NetGalley ebook titles I might get to this year..

Other Sources: I have a dozen or so books that I received from Facebook links and newsletter sign-ups, not specific review requests. plus many titles through InstaFreebie over the past few years.

Welcome to Mailbox Monday.

Mailbox Monday is a gathering place for readers to share the books that came into their house last week and explore great book blogs. This Meme started with Marcia at A Girl and Her Books (fka The Printed Page) and after a tour of hosts has returned to its permanent home at Mailbox Monday. Thanks to the ladies sharing hosting duties: Serena of Savvy Verse & Wit, and Me. Emma has retired so we are looking for another person willing to assist.

Warning: Mailbox Monday can lead to envy, toppling TBR piles and humongous wish lists.

No new review titles.
No new books this week.
No new Kindle titles this week.

Are your mailbox and TBR piles blooming?

Review Titles

NONE

Won

NONE

Purchased

NONE

Free

Nothing new this week and I am too tired to list more of the Audible Plus titles right now.
This gets me down to 17 more Audible Plus titles to list from February and March, 2024.

No new free titles added to Kindle library. Free titles might be found at Bookbub, Book Adrenaline, Ereader News Today, Inspired Reads, or Kindle ebooks.

Sunday Words of Encouragement March 31, 2024 - Resurrection Victory!

2024-03-31T21:31:00.000-05:00

Happy Resurrection Day! This morning pastor gave his message from Acts 2:22-24. Fifty days since the resurrection of Christ Jesus, Peter preaches resurrection for the first time. In his message he notes important elements.

1. God attested to Jesus by the miracles, mighty wonders He did “in your midst”. That power still exists today to show who Jesus is. Resurrection is really about Jesus.

2. The crucifixion of Christ was planned as a substitutionary sacrifice for sinful man. Jesus is the propitiation for sin; His death satisfied the debt and wrath we owe.
John 3:16-17. Jesus came to provide a restored relationship for sinful man. Isaiah 53:11.
We are all sinners. He is faithful to forgive, ‘if we confess our sins’. 1 John 1:9. We need to be more than believers. Be worshipers.

3. Those whom Christ died for, crucified Him. We are unable to keep the law or to truly love our neighbors as ourselves. “For whoever keeps the whole law and yet stumbles at just one point is guilty of breaking all of it.” James 2:8-10. God is concerned about our soul, not our comfort.
Love is willing to be vulnerable. And God loved so much he was vulnerable to allow man freedom of choice.

4. It was not possible for Christ to be held by death. Resurrection is proof of acceptance of the sacrifice to pay the debt and restore us. John 10:15.
Whosoever believes on Christ - the Way, the truth and the life - will have everlasting life.
those who sleep in Jesus. Because Jesus had victory over death, we can have victory. 1 Thessalonians 4:8-16.

Believe and Praise God for the Resurrection of Jesus who won our victory!

I chose this beautiful song for today: Here is Love Vast as the Ocean

Verses for Today:
Acts 2:22-24 New International Version
22 “Fellow Israelites, listen to this: Jesus of Nazareth was a man accredited by God to you by miracles, wonders and signs, which God did among you through him, as you yourselves know. 23 This man was handed over to you by God’s deliberate plan and foreknowledge; and you, with the help of wicked men, put him to death by nailing him to the cross. 24 But God raised him from the dead, freeing him from the agony of death, because it was impossible for death to keep its hold on him.

Lord, I confess I am a sinner and I believe you died for my sins.

Martha's Cooking #11

2024-03-30T23:34:00.003-05:00

These are my HelloFresh meals over weeks three and four of March. The meals come in on Tuesday but often I don't get to cook them until the weekend since I don't eat after 7pm (or 7:30 if I am running late).. The shipments come in with ingredients for two meals, but often I get at least three meals.

HelloFresh Mexican Street Corn Pasta

with Bell Pepper, Jalapeno & Pepper Jack
This recipe gave me four meals.
I had a Mexican Corn Casserole at a potluck and I loved it. This isn't quite the same and I still need to make the other recipe.

Chicken & Snap Pea Stir Fry

with Scallion Lime Rice & Creamy Chili Sauce.
I love crispy Snap Peas. This made enough for three meals although I had to add extra rice from a package I bought for Jasmine Rice.

HelloFresh Street Cart-Style Chicken Bowls

with Chicken Thighs, Yellow Rice, White Sauce & Pita Wedges.
This will also make three meals with extra rice.

HelloFresh Caramelized Onion Meatloaf Sandwiches

with Potato Wedges & Horseradish Dijonnaise.

I love meatloaf and this was delicious.
I don't eat much mayonnaise so I was glad it was flavored with horseradish and Dijon.

This made two good size sandwiches and extra meatloaf for lunch.

Sunday Post March 24, 2024/It's Monday! What are You Reading? Plus Mailbox Monday March 25, 2024

2024-03-24T21:46:00.269-05:00

I am linking with Sunday Post at Caffeinated Book Reviewer.

It's Monday! What Are You Reading? now at The Book Date (at Wordpress)

I was thinking of going north for the week of spring break that my grandkids get this coming week. Sadly, I feel really swamped at work so I decided not to go right now. But I may make a surprise visit soon. The plus on postponing my visit is that staff kept the week open so I should have few interruptions and can concentrate on paperwork.

I got a call Friday with the good news that the biopsy confirmed a benign tumor. On the other hand, I received a letter from my dermatologist that the biopsy they took is a skin cancer so I'll be setting an appointment for that.

We are seeing colors of spring
This view of our courthouse is directly across the street from my office.
As I got into the car Friday at end of day I looked and thought that the azaleas in the plantings made me think of one of those online garden games or house designs.

These bright colors are honey suckle in my back yard.

I need to pick up my exercise efforts. Why is this so hard to get into habit?

I will continue to pray for the Advent messages all year: Hope, Peace, Joy, and Love.

Our weather is pretty lovely, even with a few thunder storms during the week.

I finished only one audiobook and made slow progress in my ebooks. I did a review at Goodreads.

I apparently linked my post at three sites last week and then forgot to go visit and comment. I will be visiting two posts where I visit catch up this week.
Audiobooks.com is still sharing some free listens for children.

Sunday Post March 17, 2024/It's Monday! What are You Reading? Plus Mailbox Monday March 18, 2024.

MarthaE Cooking #10.

Sunday Words of Encouragement March 24, 2024 - Worship Our God.

Finished Reading:

1. Audible on Smartphone (TBR).

Barrow King: An Epic LitRPG/GameLit Adventure
By: C.M. Carney
Narrated by: Armen Taylor
Series: The Realms Series, Book 1 (8 books)
Genre: Action, Adventure, LitRPG, Superhero.
Length: 13 hrs and 30 mins
My Rating: 4.5. I found this to be good action and fun adventure.
My Review at Goodreads.
2024TBR and 2024Audiobook goals
Source: 7/18/2021 Audible $5.00 sale on Sci Fi and Fantasy titles.
Click on link to see full description.

Currently Reading:
1. Audible on Smartphone (TBR).

Chosen
The Warrior Chronicles, Book 1
By: K. F. Breene
Narrated by: Caitlin Davies
Genre: Action, Adventure, Epic.
Length: 10 hrs and 51 mins.
I have had this a while and decided it was time to listen. I am enjoying the strong female protagonist and the story at three hours in.
2024TBR and 2024Audiobook goals.
Source: 5/12/19 Audible Credit.
Publisher's summary
It is said that when war threatens the world, one individual will be selected by prophecy to lead the Shadow Warriors out of the Land of Mist and reclaim the freedom that has been stolen.
Shanti has grown up under the constant threat of war. Since she helped her people defeat a raiding party by using a special power, she's been a hunted woman. Carrying rare abilities and an uncanny fighting aptitude, Shanti is the only hope of salvation for her people. The problem is, she doesn't believe in her own divinity, and when she flounders, she nearly fails in the duty hanging so heavy on her shoulders.
It seems like any other day when Sanders and his band of misfit boys find a foreign woman clinging to life in the wastelands. Oblivious to the weapon they now have in their possession, they are content to harbor the mysterious woman until she is well enough to continue her journey. But when the war spreads its arms and lands on her borrowed doorstep, Shanti has no choice but to reveal her secrets, plunging her saviors into danger. If they band with her, they will face certain death. But to trade her to Xandre, the warlord desperate to add her to his war machine, would be to give up their entire way of life.
War is coming. The only question is this: Which side do you choose?
©2014 K. F. Breene (P)2016 Podium Publishing

2. Audio on Smartphone (TBR).

6/20/2020 2 for 1 Audiobooks.com
Dog on It
Written By: Spencer Quinn
Narrated By: Jim Frangione
Publisher: Recorded Books
Date: February 2009
Genre: Mystery, Police Detective
Duration: 9 hours 42 minutes
This is another older TBR and I felt it was time for a lighter mystery …with a dog.
Source: 6/20/2020 2 for 1 Audiobooks.com.
SUMMARY
Chet, the wise and lovable canine narrator of Dog on It, and Bernie, a down-on-his-luck private investigator, are quick to take a new case involving a frantic mother searching for her teenage daughter. This well-behaved and gifted student may or may not have been kidnapped, but she has definitely gotten mixed up with some very unsavory characters. With Chet's highly trained nose leading the way, their hunt for clues takes them into the desert to biker bars and other exotic locales-until the bad guys try to turn the tables and the resourceful duo lands in the paws of peril. Spencer Quinn's irresistible mystery kicks off a delightful new series that will have readers panting for more.

3. eBook - NetGalley App on Smartphone (NGeB2024)

The Wild Lavender Bookshop
by Jodi Thomas
Pub Date 23 Apr 2024 | Archive Date 07 May 2024
Genre: Contemporary, Romance, Small Town, Western.
I am 30% in on this and still enjoying the quirky characters.
2024NetGalley and 2024ebook Goals.
Source: 1/4/2024 NetGalley.

Sort of ON HOLD. Kindle (/NetGalley ) App on Smartphone (NGeB2023)

The Altered Moon 2: The Tyrant of Unity
By James McGettigan, Jingjing Huntley (Photographer), Fabiana Granado, Kyle Davis, Jason Frank, Serena Lucatero, Jacqui Corn-Uys (Editor), Anthony McGettigan (Editor), Judy McGettigan (Editor)
Genre: Alien Invasion, Space Sci Fi.
This is still reading slowly. I have reached 77%.
Although I am reading the other NetGalley ebook, I open this each day to read on the Kindle App.
Source: December 27, 2023 NetGalley.
2024TBR, 2024NetGalley, 2024Alphabet, and 2024ebook Goals.
Click on link to see full description.

I only have one letter left for my Alphabet Challenge: X. You might note I am proceeding through the Alphabet again but trying to pull from older year TBRs.

March 24, 2024 - I am enjoying the YouVersion App called The Bible Recap with Tara Leigh Cobble. (The link is to the plan online.) We are reading in Joshua this week. I have always enjoyed this book where Joshua is told to "be strong and courageous".
I appreciate how Tara Leigh Cobble's discussion points out each day that "God is where the Joy is."
I am 37 days into a 40 day study for Lent: Hillsong: 40 Days of Revival.

I finished one book; rated with review at Goodreads.

NETGALLEY STATUS--
I have started my next ebook. I still have an older audio on my shelf I need to listen to.
I still have the two old NetGalley ebook titles I might get to this year..

Other Sources: I have a dozen or so books that I received from Facebook links and newsletter sign-ups, not specific review requests. plus many titles through InstaFreebie over the past few years.

Welcome to Mailbox Monday.

No new review titles.
No new Audibles this week but there are several sales - I'm trying not to look.
I did pick my Audiobooks.com March VIP title.

No new Kindle titles this week.
Are your mailbox and TBR piles blooming?

Review Titles

NONE

Won

NONE

Purchased

NONE

Free

3/23/24 March VIP at Audiobooks.com. This continues a series.

Day Shift
Written By: Charlaine Harris
Narrated By: Susan Bennett
Series: #2 Of Midnight, Texas
Genre: Cozy Mystery, Paranomal
Duration: 9 hours 55 minutes

A portion of the Audible Plus titles from February 2024:

On a Night Like This
By: Liz Maverick
Narrated by: Dara Rosenberg, Andrew Eiden
Series: Winter Nights, Book 3
Length: 3 hrs and 34 mins

The Hollow of Fear
By: Sherry Thomas
Narrated by: Kate Reading
Series: Lady Sherlock, Book 3
Length: 10 hrs and 51 mins

The Lost Gargoyle of Paris
By: Gigi Pandian
Narrated by: Julia Motyka
Series: Accidental Alchemist Mysteries, Book 4.5
Length: 3 hrs and 1 min

Artifact
A Jaya Jones Treasure Hunt Mystery, Book 1
By: Gigi Pandian
Narrated by: Allyson Ryan
Series: Jaya Jones, Book 1
Length: 7 hrs and 42 mins

Runaway Girl
By: Tessa Bailey
Narrated by: Hayden Bishop, Tyler Donne
Series: The Girl, Book 2
Length: 10 hrs and 32 mins

Protecting What's His
By: Tessa Bailey
Narrated by: Alice Chapman
Series: Line of Duty, Book 1
Length: 6 hrs and 27 mins

Lies My Teacher Told Me
Everything Your American History Textbook Got Wrong
By: James W. Loewen
Narrated by: Brian Keeler
Length: 14 hrs and 26 mins

The Fairy-Tale Detectives
The Sisters Grimm
By: Michael Buckley
Narrated by: L. J. Ganser
Series: Sisters Grimm, Book 1
Length: 6 hrs and 9 mins

The Rebound
By: Leeanne Slade
Narrated by: Claudia Jessie
Length: 10 hrs and 13 mins

The Takedown’
By: Lily Chu
Narrated by: Phillipa Soo
Length: 10 hrs and 55 mins

This gets me down to 17 more Audible Plus titles to list from February and March, 2024.

No new free titles added to Kindle library. Free titles might be found at Bookbub, Book Adrenaline, Ereader News Today, Inspired Reads, or Kindle ebooks.

Sunday Words of Encouragement March 24, 2024 - Worship our God!

2024-03-24T16:41:00.000-05:00

Pastor continued his preaching from Nehemiah noting the overall theme: Rebuild and Revive.
Believes this is prophetic message for our church (the church). Today’s message is from Nehemiah Chapter 9.
Five elements of spiritual revival expressed here:
1. Humility – they fasted, dressed in sack cloth and put dirt on their heads. Nehemiah 9:1; 2 Chronicles 7:14.
2. Separate from foreigners. Nehemiah 9:2; 2 Corinthians 6:17-18 - separate from sin. Allow God to transfer your nature.
3. Confession/repentance. Nehemiah 9:2-3. Confess inequities of ancestors and recognize our own sin. 1 John 1:9-10. Do we love the sin more than we love God?
4. Worship. Nehemiah 9:3-5. God created us to worship Him. Seek the Lord and He will be found. It is our gift to Him.
5. Listen to the Word of God. Nehemiah 9:3. They read for a quarter of the day! The Word of a God is a mirror to our behavior. The God of the universe has given us instructions how to best live our lives.

Remainder of the chapter gives examples of how to worship, what to say.
Acknowledge His greatness, who He is. Talk about His attributes. Nehemiah 9:6-7.
Worship Him for all He has done – creation, history, provision, healing; Nehemiah 9:8-11.
Worship Him for guidance, the Spirit that instructs, convicts, directs. Nehemiah 9:12-13.
Worship Him for His Word. Nehemiah 9:13-14.
Worship Him for miracles of the past and miracles of your current life. Nehemiah 9:15-17.
Worship Him for His forgiveness and steadfastness. Nehemiah 9:17-19.
Worship Him for the promises He has fulfilled and for His compassion. Nehemiah 9:20-30.
Worship Him for His presence, grace and mercy. He will never leave you. Nehemiah 9:31.
Worship Him for His greatness and His righteousness. Nehemiah 9:32-34.

When we worship, He shows up. He has come to seek and save those who were lost.

We sang a wonderful ‘older’ praise song this morning: To Him Who Sits On The Throne”… be Blessing and Glory and Honor and Power forever. That is a great song but I chose this song today: Greater Things.

Verses for Today:
Nehemiah 9 NIV
1 On the twenty-fourth day of the same month, the Israelites gathered together, fasting and wearing sackcloth and putting dust on their heads. 2 Those of Israelite descent had separated themselves from all foreigners. They stood in their places and confessed their sins and the sins of their ancestors. 3 They stood where they were and read from the Book of the Law of the Lord their God for a quarter of the day, and spent another quarter in confession and in worshiping the Lord their God.

Heavenly Father my creator, Christ my Savior, Holy Spirit my Guide – May I share your Omnipotence, Omniscience, and Omnipresence with those I come in touch with.

Additional Verse:
2 Chronicles 7:14
…[I]f my people, who are called by my name, will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven, and I will forgive their sin and will heal their land.

Martha Cooking #10

2024-03-23T21:46:00.000-05:00

These are my HelloFresh meals over weeks two and three of March. When I show a plate or bowl it is for one meal, I am noting if it made two or more meals for me.

Pasta Primavera

with Lemon Sauce, Bell Pepper, Zucchini & Peas;
This recipe gave me three meals.

Peanut Butter & Cherry Belgian Waffles

with Jammy Honey Sauce & Apple
This comes with four waffles - four breakfasts and/or a lunch.

Paprika Chicken in a Lemony Sauce with Pistachio Rice & Roasted Carrots.
I took a picture before the meat was cut but realized I hadn't added the sauce or pistachios.
This was two meals.

Za’atar-Crusted Grilling Cheese

with Sumac-Spiced Zucchini & Onion over Couscous.

I do love cheese even this when it squeaked as I ate it!

I followed the instructions to broil the veggies but my broiler was really hot.
They are crispier but taste good.
This made two meals.

Sunday Post March 17, 2024/It's Monday! What are You Reading? Plus Mailbox Monday March 18, 2024

2024-03-17T23:42:00.150-05:00

I am linking with Sunday Post at Caffeinated Book Reviewer.

It's Monday! What Are You Reading? now at The Book Date (at Wordpress)

Work continues along. I was tired after the time change last Sunday and the whole week was off a little.
I stayed home on Wednesday after the surgery on Tuesday and did a little computer work. I went into office and worked a full day Thursday which may have been too much. Friday I went in at 10:30 and came home at 4:00. I had a dinner with 18 other women from my Woman's Club and others in the state from 6-8.

I went for surgery (basically a lumpectomy and biopsy of the ductal tumor) on Tuesday, arriving at 6:30am. They sent me early to ultra sound where they put a wire in to guide the surgeon to the right spot. Then they sent me to the operating waiting area at 9am. It was very boring as they did not take me into surgery until after 2pm and I had no phone - no book! Had I realized, I would have taken a paperback that could be lost. The post surgery medicine they gave me onsite (fentanyl) was awful - made me too woozy. (Why would people take that voluntarily?) Fortunately the pain was minimal so I only took one codeine pill the first night. The area has been tender to touch or bump, but, surprisingly, no other pain except some tightness as I worked all day.
Saturday was pretty much a daze of a day. I did laundry and cooked dinner, but had no energy. I think I may have been dehydrated from earlier in the week.

I didn't do much exercise this week although I walked outside two days.

I will continue to pray for the Advent messages all year: Hope, Peace, Joy, and Love.

Our weather continues to be nice n the 70s with maybe one day of rain a week.

I finished three audiobooks. I did short reviews at Goodreads for the first two.

I visited 11 blogs again last week.
Audiobooks.com is still sharing some free listens for children.

Sunday Post March 10, 2024/It's Monday! What are You Reading? Plus Mailbox Monday March 11, 2024.

MarthaE Cooking #9.

Sunday Words of Encouragement March 10, 2024 - We Are Only Pilgrims.

Finished Reading:
1. Audible on Smartphone (TBR).

You Have Been Judged
Series: Judge, Jury, & Executioner, Book 1
By: Craig Martelle, Michael Anderle
Narrated by: Chloe Cannon
Length: 6 hrs and 34 mins
Genre: First Contact, Space Opera
My Rating: 4.25 (down .25 due to foul language.)
I liked the strong female protagonist and the action.
My Review at Goodreads.
2024TBR, 2024Alphabet, and 2024Audiobook goals.
Source: 10/29/2023 On Sale at Audible $4.99.
Click on link to see full description.

2. Audio on Smartphone (TBR).

Wild Horses
By: B. J. Daniels
Narrated by: Graham Winton
Series: The Montana Hamiltons, Book 1
Genre: Romantic Suspense
Length: 8 hrs and 34 mins
My Rating: 4.0. This is a solid romantic suspense. I liked the characters and overall plot but there were some awkward writing POV changes.
My Review at Goodreads.
2024TBR and 2024Audiobook goals.
Source: 2018 Audionooks.com.
Click on link to see full description.

Ava's Crucible
The Complete Box Set
By: Mark Goodwin
Narrated by: Stacey Glemboski
Genre: Action & Adventure, Post Apocalyptic
Length: 20 hrs and 49 mins
I picked this as an “A” title from 2021. I am starting over on the Alphabet as it helps me pick from soooo many books.
I decided just do the first book at this time and come back to the rest later.
My Rating: 4.25. I enjoyed the story. It is heavy on politics and Christian messages, which is okay with me.
I still have to do my review at Goodreadds, then I will link it.
Source: 8/14/2021 July Audible Credit.
Publisher's summary
A stolen election. An unlikely heroine. The Second American Civil War.
When Ava is snatched from the hands of violent agitators by the ominous man who has been stalking her, she fears her fate may be worse than death.
Political discord between right and left has reached the flashpoint. Hostile rhetoric has given way to bloodshed and brutality.
The tentacles of the deep state have infiltrated every facet of American culture. The public education system, entertainment industry, and mainstream media have all been hijacked by a shadow government intent on fomenting a communist revolution in the United States. The antagonistic message of this agenda has poisoned the minds of America’s youth who are convinced that capitalism and conservatism are responsible for all the ills of the world. Violent protest and widespread destruction will bring America to her knees.
Ava's had a hard life . . . and it's about to get a whole lot tougher!
The deck is stacked against 29-year-old Ava. She’s a fighter, but she’s got trust issues and doesn’t always make the best decisions. Her personal complications aren’t without merit, but America is on the verge of a second Civil War, and Ava must pull it together if she wants to survive.
Trouble seems to follow Ava where ever she goes. The onset of the Second American Civil War should be no different. Caught in a vicious protest, she’ll have to do the unthinkable to stay alive.
Life only gets more difficult for Ava when she spots a sinister figure watching her every move. Who is the strange man with the scar on his face and what does he want with Ava?
Don’t miss this chilling tale of America’s Civil War 2.0! Start listening today and get a glimpse into the dark future in store for our country.
This is the complete three-book box set including:
Book One: Divided We Fall
Book Two: Embers of Empire
Book Three: United We Stand
As with all books by Mark Goodwin, this book contains no profanity and no embarrassing sex scenes. However, if you're offended by conservative principles and references to Scripture, this book might not be for you.
©2019 Mark Goodwin (P)2019 Mark Goodwin

Currently Reading:

1. Audible on Smartphone (TBR).

Barrow King: An Epic LitRPG/GameLit Adventure
By: C.M. Carney
Narrated by: Armen Taylor
Series: The Realms Series, Book 1 (8 books)
Genre: Action, Adventure, LitRPG, Superhero.
Length: 13 hrs and 30 mins
I’d been eyeing this and I wanted another change of genre. I’ve just started and am meeting the hero. I like it so far.
2024TBR and 2024Audiobook goals
Source: 7/18/2021 Audible $5.00 sale on Sci Fi and Fantasy titles.
Publisher's summary
Book 1 of the best-selling epic LitRPG series The Realms.
A betrayed spy turned noob hero.
Betrayed by those closest to him, Finn Caldwell thought he’d escaped his life of violence and deception. But when a frantic message from his estranged sister draws him into The Realms, the world’s most advanced holographic reality game, Finn is forced to embrace his deadly skills once more.
Armed with a mysterious artifact known as a Godhead, Finn becomes the warrior-mage Gryph. Yet, things are not as they seem and to save his sister, he must escape a sentient dungeon by defeating its master, the Barrow King.
The Realms will take you back to the days when Advanced Dungeons & Dragons and The Elder Scrolls were new. Feel the nostalgia!
WARNING: Welcome to your new favorite genre.
LitRPG/GameLit is genre that incorporates gaming elements from tabletop role-playing games like Dungeons and Dragons and Pathfinder with epic RPG video games like The Elder Scrolls: Skyrim and MMO’s like World of Warcraft and sets them in a fantasy or science fiction setting. It generally has leveling, stat tables, character sheets and skill progressions.
If you’re new to LitRPG or GameLit, then The Realms is the perfect place to start.
Prepare to lose sleep. You have been warned.
The Realms - an epic LitRPG/GameLit fantasy series. Suggested listening order:
Barrow King
The Lost City
Killing Time
Dead Must Die (a side quest)
Scourge of Souls
The Forsaken God
Chaos Rising
Ravaged Land (coming soon)
©2018 C.M. Carney (P)2018 C.M. Carney

2. eBook - NetGalley App on Smartphone (NGeB2024)

The Wild Lavender Bookshop
by Jodi Thomas
Pub Date 23 Apr 2024 | Archive Date 07 May 2024
Genre: Contemporary, Romance, Small Town, Western.
I am 20% in on this and enjoying the quirky characters I’ve met.
2024NetGalley and 2024ebook Goals.
Source: 1/4/2024 NetGalley.
Return to the unforgettable world of Someday Valley, Texas, in this tender, uplifting novel of hearts in search of second chances.
The trees that circle Someday Valley near Honey Creek are dressed in their fall finest, providing a pretty backdrop for the local businesses—including the little bookshop loved by schoolteacher Cora Lee Buchanan. There, under the watchful eye of owner Noah O’Brien, Cora Lee and her sister, Katherine, meet each Wednesday. Their talk mostly revolves around one subject: their father, known to everyone in town as Bear.
Both Cora Lee and Katherine worry about Bear Buchanan. They’ve no idea Bear has a secret life of his own. As for the sisters, Katherine, beautiful and self-absorbed, is in search of her third husband, while Cora Lee is in love for the first time. On warm nights, she climbs up to her building’s roof to chat with Noah and listen to the melody of the water below. Yet there is more intrigue afoot in Honey Creek . . .
Andi Delane has arrived in town to hear the last wishes of the father she never met. She was shocked to get a letter from lawyer Jackson Landry, and she has few expectations—of this mysterious will, or of Deputy Danny Davis who’s been assigned to protect her. But fall always brings changes, and this year there will be enough to alter not just the lives of those who call Honey Creek home, but the future of Someday Valley itself.

Sort of ON HOLD. Kindle (/NetGalley )App on Smartphone (NGeB2023)

The Altered Moon 2: The Tyrant of Unity
By James McGettigan, Jingjing Huntley (Photographer), Fabiana Granado, Kyle Davis, Jason Frank, Serena Lucatero, Jacqui Corn-Uys (Editor), Anthony McGettigan (Editor), Judy McGettigan (Editor)
Genre: Alien Invasion, Space Sci Fi.
This is still reading slowly. I have reached 75%.
Although I am reading the other NetGalley ebook, I open this each day to read on the Kindle App.
Source: December 27, 2023 NetGalley.
2024TBR, 2024NetGalley, 2024Alphabet, and 2024ebook Goals.
Click on link to see full description.

I only have one letter left for my Alphabet Challenge: X,

March 17, 2024 - I am enjoying the YouVersion App called The Bible Recap with Tara Leigh Cobble. (The link is to the plan online.) I am reading in Deuteronomy. I appreciate how Tara Leigh Cobble's discussion points out each day that "God is where the Joy is."
I am 31 days into a 40 day study for Lent: Hillsong: 40 Days of Revival.

I finished three books; rated two with mini reviews at Goodreads.

NETGALLEY STATUS--
I have started my next ebook. I still have an older audio on my shelf I need to listen to.
I still have the two old NetGalley ebook titles I might get to this year..

Other Sources: I have a dozen or so books that I received from Facebook links and newsletter sign-ups, not specific review requests. plus many titles through InstaFreebie over the past few years.

Welcome to Mailbox Monday.

No new review titles.
Two Audible Credits. this week.

No new Kindle titles this week.
Are your mailbox and TBR piles blooming?

Review Titles

NONE

Won

NONE

Purchased

3/18/2024 Two February Audible Credits. These are both continuing series that I like.

Critical Mass
By: Craig Alanson
Narrated by: R.C. Bray
Expeditionary Force, Book 10
Length: 19 hrs and 25 mins

Undead
By: Ryan W. Aslesen
Narrated by: Jeffrey Kafer
Crucible, Book 2
Length: 7 hrs and 25 mins

Free

I still have more Audible Plus titles to list from February, and now March, 2024.

No new free titles added to Kindle library. Free titles might be found at Bookbub, Book Adrenaline, Ereader News Today, Inspired Reads, or Kindle ebooks.

Sunday Words of Encouragement March 17, 2024 - We Are Only Pilgrims Here.

2024-03-17T12:26:00.002-05:00

Pastor continued his message in Nehemiah 8.
Reminder to be hungry for the Word of God, to learn and do His Will.
God, through the leaders, called the people and directed them to celebrate the Feast of Booths. They were to live in temporary shelters during the seventh month to remember God’s faithfulness to them. Remember where they came from and how God provided for them. Proclaim His Goodness. They didn’t earn what they had. God gave it to them.

Worship is not just good music. It is so much more. It is praising, being grateful, studying His Word. Look beyond the obstacles to see the blessings.

The earth is the Lord’s and the fullness thereof. Psalm 24:1. We didn’t earn where we are, what we have. God has blessed us. Peter notes that the people were pilgrims. We are sojourners in a strange land. We await the time of reaching our citizenship which is in Heaven for eternity.

What it means for us as Pilgrims:

Don’t view this world as your home. You have a heavenly home.
Don’t live for just here and now. Don’t seek permanent possessions here. Lay up treasures in heaven, not on earth. Matthew 6:19-2. We brought nothing into this world and take nothing out of it. 1 Timothy 6:6-8. God blesses our income not to increase our standard of living, but to increase our standard of giving.
Don’t be obsessed with earthly relationships. Luke 18. We should be pleasing God more than man.
Don’t be obsessed with this live. Throw off what hinders and set aside the weight of sin that entangles us. Hebrews 12:1. The world society will get worse and worse. The goal is to reach as many as possible with God’s gift of salvation before He brings wrath on the world.

The assembly met for eight days, and they were more dedicated each day. Each day of worship is one step closer to eternity. God has kept us through all our years.

Our ministry isn’t about church growth. It’s about Kingdom growth!

I like this song today: One Day.

Nehemiah 8:17-18 NIV
17 The whole company that had returned from exile built temporary shelters and lived in them. From the days of Joshua son of Nun until that day, the Israelites had not celebrated it like this. And their joy was very great.
18 Day after day, from the first day to the last, Ezra read from the Book of the Law of God. They celebrated the festival for seven days, and on the eighth day, in accordance with the regulation, there was an assembly.

Thank you, Lord, for all you have given me from breath to blessing. Help me share Your love and message of salvation to others!

Martha Cooking #9

2024-03-17T00:18:00.000-05:00

These are my HelloFresh meals (made seven dinners and four breakfasts) for the first week of March. When I show a plate or bowl it is for one meal, I am noting if it made two or more meals for me.

HelloFresh Zucchini Pomodoro Penne Bake

with Mozzarella & Herbed Ricotta.
This is shown in the casserole dish. The recipe fed me four meals.

HelloFresh Bagel which I topped with
Avocado, Egg, Bean Sprouts, and Bacon.
Nice soft bagel and the rest is yummy.
Four bagels so four different breakfasts; one shared with my Granddaughter who just wanted cream cheese.

HelloFresh Sweet & Tangy Hoisin Pork Meatballs

over a Gingery Sweet Potato & Green Bean Jumble.

These were delicious for two dinners.

This is my homemade Tortilla Cream Cheese with Green Onion Pinwheels.
I had a quarter of cream cheese left that I was afraid would go bad.
I made two tortillas with filling and sliced for snack.

Sunday Post March 10, 2024/It's Monday! What are You Reading? Plus Mailbox Monday March 11, 2024

2024-03-10T22:06:00.001-05:00

I am linking with Sunday Post at Caffeinated Book Reviewer.

It's Monday! What Are You Reading? now at The Book Date (at Wordpress)

I am pleased with the office work as it moves along. We have a good mix of real estate closings for the title office and probates, deeds, wills, and consults for the law office. Then I have a handful of litigation files, most of which are uncontested foreclosures or quiet title matters.
My daughter is planning to drive me up for the surgery on Tuesday. I expect it to go just fine.
My computer order was delayed because I used a card that had just been replaced. I should get the new one later this week.

I like this nice flowering tree in my front yard.
I'm not sure but it might be a "service berry" tree.

I started exercises again, alternating walking and chair yoga.

I will continue to pray for the Advent messages all year: Hope, Peace, Joy, and Love.

Our weather is mostly nice in the 70s although we've had several strong storms run through.

I finished two audios and one of my ebooks. I did short reviews at Goodreads.

I visited 11 blogs again last week.
Audiobooks.com is still sharing some free listens for children.

Sunday Post March 3, 2024/It's Monday! What are You Reading? Plus Mailbox Monday March 4, 2024.

MarthaE Cooking #8.

Sunday Words of Encouragement March 10, 2024 - Hungry for the Word.

Finished Reading:

1. Audible on Smartphone (TBR).

The Postman
By: David Brin
Narrated by: Kevin Kenerly
Length: 9 hrs and 55 mins
Genre: Adventure, Post Apocalyptic.
My Rating 4.0 This is different than the movie but good.
Review at Goodreads.
2024TBR, 2024Alphabet, and 2024Audiobook goals.
Source: 4/29/2023 Audible Plus Catalog.

2. eBook - NetGalley App on Smartphone (NGeB2024)

If the Boot Fits
By Karen Witemeyer
Pub Date 12 Mar 2024 | Archive Date 21 Apr 2024
Bethany House, Bethany House Publishers
Genre: Christian | Historical Fiction | Romance
My Rating 4.75. I did enjoy this lovely story.
My review at Goodreads.
2024NetGalley, 2024Alphabet, and 2024ebook Goals. Source: 1/12/2024 ebook from NetGalley.
Click on link to see full description.

3. Audible on Smartphone (TBR).

Outrider: A Novel
By: Steven John
Narrated by: Matthew McCollum
Length: 12 hrs and 3 mins
Genre: Adventure, Dystopian, Post Apocalyptic
My Rating 3.75/4.0. I liked the primary character but the pacing was slow to get through.
My review at Goodreads.
2024TBR, 2024Alphabet, and 2024Audiobook goals.
Source: November 2022 Audible Plus.
Publisher's summary
Within a few decades, solar technology will evolve to the point where power is endless - unless someone wants to stop the flow - which someone does.And the only men who can stop these high-tech terrorists are on horseback. In the near future, the New Las Vegas Sunfield will be one of many enormous solar farms to supply energy to the United States. At more than fifty miles long and two miles wide, the Sunfield generates an electromagnetic field so volatile that ordinary machinery and even the simplest electronic devices must be kept miles away from it. Thus, the only men who can guard the most technologically advanced power station on earth do so on horseback.They are the Outriders.Though the power supplied by the Sunfield is widespread, access to that power comes with total deference to the iron-fisted will of New Las Vegas’s ruthless mayor, Franklin Dreg. Crisis erupts when Dreg’s quietly competent secretary, Timothy Hale, discovers someone has been stealing energysiphoning it out of the New Las Vegas grid under cover of darkness.As the Outriders investigate, the scale of the thievery becomes clear: these aren’t the ordinary energy leeches, people who steal a few watts here or there. These are high-tech terrorists (or revolutionaries) engaged in a mysterious and dangerous enterprise and poised to bring down the entire energy grid, along with the millions of people it supports.The pressure mounts and fractures appear within both the political leadership of New Las Vegas and in the tight-knit community of Outriders. With a potential crisis looming, the mysterious goal of the Drainers” finally comes into focus. Only then do the Outriders realize how dangerous the situation really is.
©2014 Steven John (P)2014 Audible Inc.

Currently Reading:
1. Audible on Smartphone (TBR).

You Have Been Judged
Series: Judge, Jury, & Executioner, Book 1
By: Craig Martelle, Michael Anderle
Narrated by: Chloe Cannon
Length: 6 hrs and 34 mins
Genre: First Contact, Space Opera
I like these authors and the blurb, plus it is a "Y" title for my Alphabet Challenge.
I was thrown off by the first minute that is full of cursing. But once past that I am enjoying the story.
2024TBR, 2024Alphabet, and 2024Audiobook goals.
Source: 10/29/2023 On Sale at Audible $4.99.
Publisher's summary
Rivka Anoa has a gift and a galactic mandate.
She's a lawyer accused of a murder she did commit. She stands ready to accept her fate, even though her victim was a murderer. A second chance appears. Become more than a lawyer. Be one who judges and punishes the guilty.
Could she look herself in the mirror after meting out justice? She's about to find out. Rivka heads to space to be the Judge, Jury, & Executioner. Criminals have nowhere to go.
You Have Been Judged . . .
©2018 Craig Martelle and Michael Anderle (P)2023 Tantor.

2. Audible on Smartphone (TBR).

Wild Horses
By: B. J. Daniels
Narrated by: Graham Winton
Series: The Montana Hamiltons, Book 1
Genre: Romantic Suspense
Length: 8 hrs and 34 mins
I decided to work on some books from my older TBR lists. I also wanted a change from space or post apocalyptic.
2024TBR and 2024Audiobook goals.
Source: 2018 Audionooks.com.
SUMMARY
It took only one impulsive moment on an empty two-lane highway to cost her everything. A man's responsible for his own prosperity-especially if he's Cooper Barnett, the most determined cowboy in the West. No one knows what he sacrificed to claim a piece of Beartooth, Montana, for himself and his beautiful fiancée, Livie. No one knows what he's willing to do for love…until a stranger's twisted vendetta threatens the happy ending they should've had long ago. One fateful mistake isn't the only secret Livie Hamilton is keeping from her fiancé. Victimized during a treacherous blizzard by a man she thought she could trust, she's pregnant … but unsure who the father is. With an unknown blackmailer threatening to expose her, she must confess to Cooper and trust he'll still protect her. But when the truth falls into place, she may lose the only man she's ever loved-or worse.

Sort of ON HOLD. Kindle (/NetGalley )App on Smartphone (NGeB2023)

The Altered Moon 2: The Tyrant of Unity
By James McGettigan, Jingjing Huntley (Photographer), Fabiana Granado, Kyle Davis, Jason Frank, Serena Lucatero, Jacqui Corn-Uys (Editor), Anthony McGettigan (Editor), Judy McGettigan (Editor)
Genre: Alien Invasion, Space Sci Fi.
This is still reading slowly. I have reached 70%.
Although I am reading the other NetGalley ebook, I open this each day to read on the Kindle App.
Source: December 27, 2023 NetGalley.
2024TBR, 2024NetGalley, 2024Alphabet, and 2024ebook Goals.
Click on link to see full description.

I only have one letter left for my Alphabet Challenge: X,

March 10, 2024 - I am enjoying the YouVersion App called The Bible Recap with Tara Leigh Cobble. (The link is to the plan online.) We finished Numbers and started Deuteronomy today. I appreciate how Tara Leigh Cobble's discussion points out each day that "God is where the Joy is."
I am 25 days into a 40 day study for Lent: Hillsong: 40 Days of Revival.

I finished three books, rated with mini reviews at Goodreads.

NETGALLEY STATUS--
I have started my next ebook. I still have an older audio on my shelf I need to listen to.
I still have the two old NetGalley ebook titles I might get to this year..

Other Sources: I have a dozen or so books that I received from Facebook links and newsletter sign-ups, not specific review requests. plus many titles through InstaFreebie over the past few years.

Welcome to Mailbox Monday.

No new review titles.
No new purchases or picks but I am listing the Audible Plus titles I got in January.

No new Kindle titles this week.
Are your mailbox and TBR piles blooming?

Review Titles

NONE

Won

NONE

Purchased

NONE

Free

Here are 12 titles from Audible Plus that I added in January.

Sirocco
By: Dana Haynes
Narrated by: Victor Bevine
Series: St. Nicholas Salvage & Wrecking, Book 2
Length: 10 hrs and 18 mins

No Ordinary Killing
By: Jeff Dawson
Narrated by: Jonathan Keeble
Series: Ingo Finch Mystery, Book 1
Length: 12 hrs and 56 mins

How to Lose a Guy Before Christmas
By: A.J. Pine
Narrated by: Andi Arndt, Jason Clarke
Length: 5 hrs and 24 mins

Borough of Bones
By: John Conroe
Narrated by: James Patrick Cronin
Series: Zone War Series, Book 2
Length: 8 hrs and 33 mins

The Culling
By: Tricia Wentworth
Narrated by: Jennifer Jill Araya
Series: Culling Series, Book 1
Length: 17 hrs and 57 mins

The Day after Oblivion
By: Tim Washburn
Narrated by: Joe Barrett
Length: 12 hrs and 14 mins

Dark Age
By: Pierce Brown
Narrated by: Tim Gerard Reynolds, John Curless, Moira Quirk, James Langton, Rendah Heywood
Series: Red Rising, Book 5
Length: 33 hrs and 58 mins

Long Road to Survival
By: Lee Bradford, William H. Weber
Narrated by: Johnny Heller
The Complete Box Set: A Post-Apocalyptic Survival Thriller
Length: 8 hrs and 41 mins

The Downloaded
By: Robert J. Sawyer
Narrated by: Brendan Fraser, Luke Kirby, Vanessa Sears, Colm Feore, Andrew Phung, full cast
Length: 5 hrs and 39 mins

Before It's Too Late
By: Sara Driscoll
Narrated by: Angela Dawe
Series: F.B.I. K-9, Book 2
Length: 8 hrs and 1 min

Midnight Caller
By: Leslie Tentler
Narrated by: Marguerite Gavin
Series: Chasing Evil, Book 1
Length: 11 hrs and 30 mins

Call Me Maybe
By: Cara Bastone
Narrated by: Luci Christian, Neil Hellegers
Series: Love Lines
Length: 5 hrs and 55 mins

I still have more Audible Plus titles to list from February, and now March, 2024.

No new free titles added to Kindle library. Free titles might be found at Bookbub, Book Adrenaline, Ereader News Today, Inspired Reads, or Kindle ebooks.

Sunday Words of Encouragement March 10, 2024 Hungry for the Word.

2024-03-10T17:25:00.000-05:00

I enjoyed good worship, prayer and a word from God this morning. Then Pastor started a message from Nehemiah 8. This narrative shifts from the building of the wall to the call to the people to spiritual focus as they return from captivity. The people gathered and asked Ezra, the teacher of the law, to read the word of God. The people were eager, hungry, to hear the Word. Ezra read from early morning till midday and the people listened attentively. Nehemiah 8:1-3.

All scripture is given by God and is instructive and authoritative. 2 Timothy 3:16-17.

Here are four reasons to hunger after the Word.

1. It teaches Doctrine – what we are to believe. We are disciples, not just experiencers or learners. Our spirit will respond to the Truth of the Word.
2. It is good for Reproof = examine, test, or bring to light areas that God wants us to work on. The Word is alive and powerful. Hebrew 4:12
3. It provides Correction and direction. That we might not sin against God. Psalm 119:10-11.
4. It guides us in Righteousness. It teaches us how to be in right relationship with the Lord.

They worshiped with the Word. They stood in reference. Ezra praised. They bowed and worshipped. Nehemiah 8:5-6. They came with expectation. Reading the Word should be a worship event. The Levites helped to instruct so the people could understand. Nehemiah 8:7-8. The people were weeping because of the sin of the past. But the leaders proclaimed the day “Holy” and said, ‘do not grieve.’ Nehemiah 8:9-10. “For the joy of the Lord is your strength.” V10. Serving the Lord in obedience brings joy.

“…to teach you that man does not live on bread alone but on every word that comes from the mouth of the Lord.” Deuteronomy 8:1-3.

This wasn’t my initial song choice, but after listening to it I chose it for the Joy is my Strength and Praise.

Verses for Today:
Nehemiah 8:1-3, part of 10 NIV
1 all the people came together as one in the square before the Water Gate. They told Ezra the teacher of the Law to bring out the Book of the Law of Moses, which the Lord had commanded for Israel.
2 So on the first day of the seventh month Ezra the priest brought the Law before the assembly, which was made up of men and women and all who were able to understand. 3 He read it aloud from daybreak till noon as he faced the square before the Water Gate in the presence of the men, women and others who could understand. And all the people listened attentively to the Book of the Law.
10. ... Do not grieve, For The Joy Of The Lord Is Your Strength."

Lord, please keep me hungry for Your Word so I might know You better, be closer to You, and do Your Will.

MarthaE Cooking #8

2024-03-09T20:23:00.002-06:00

These are my HelloFresh meals (made seven dinners) from the end of February.

HelloFresh Cranberry Thyme Chicken

with Roasted Brussel Sprouts, Carrots & Onion.

I am learning to enjoy the roasted vegetables!
The sauce for the chicken was good too.

HelloFresh Brown Sugar Bourbon Pork Chops,

with Apple Pan Sauce, Scallion Mashed Potatoes & Broccoli.
Mine doesn't look quite like the photo.
My apples were darker and I cut my meat in bite size pieces rather than the pretty slices.

And my broccoli was a bit too well done, although it was still tasty.

HelloFresh Garden Spinach Ricotta Ravioli
with Zucchini Ribbons, Tomato & Creamy Lemon Sauce.
My servings never look quite like the photos but they are still good!
I only had one small tomato for this so it is lost in the picture.
I enjoyed the zucchini but I didn't plate the ribbons as well.
Still, this was a bit easier cooking and I sure liked the ravioli and sauce.

Sunday Post March 3, 2024/It's Monday! What are You Reading? Plus Mailbox Monday March 4, 2024

2024-03-03T23:21:00.202-06:00

I am linking with Sunday Post at Caffeinated Book Reviewer.

It's Monday! What Are You Reading? now at The Book Date (at Wordpress)

Work continues day to day. I have surgery scheduled for 3/12. They will be doing a biopsy of what is believed to be a benign tumor as well as removing ducts due to an infection which has been causing the bleeding.
I ordered the new computer when mine crashed during a Zoom trial hearing on Thursday. Fortunately I had another computer ready to go as originally I was going to have my witness on the separate computer but it was causing feedback. The computer continues to crash at least once a day.

I don't have much new in photos except I want to show my orchard which is blooming so well with a second set of blooms!

I still have to restart the chair yoga. I don't understand why it is so hard to keep that in the routine... except for being tired at the time I should sit down to exercise.

I will continue to pray for the Advent messages all year: Hope, Peace, Joy, and Love.

We've had lovely sunny days... except for the days of rain. Temps range from a high of 82 during the day to 56 at night. I can live nicely with this.

I finished three audios and made a progress in one of my ebooks. I did short reviews at Goodreads.

I visited 11 blogs last week.
Audiobooks.com is still sharing some free listens for children.

Sunday Post February 25, 2024/It's Monday! What are You Reading? Plus Mailbox Monday February 26, 2024.

Sunday Words of Encouragement March 3, 2024 - Not Like Many.

Finished Reading:
1. Audible on Smartphone (TBR).

The Upheaval
By: Erica Stevens , Claire Bloom
Narrated by: Stefan Rudnicki
Series: The Survivor Chronicles, Book 1
Length: 9 hrs and 15 mins
Genre: Disaster, Horror, Suspense
My Rating: 4.25. I was ready for an apocalyptic type tale and chose this as my "U" title. Link to my review at Goodreads.
2024TBR, 2024Alphabet, and 2024Audiobook goals.
Source: September 2020 Audible Plus.
Click on link to see full description.

2. Audible on Smartphone (ATBR).

Death Becomes Her [Dramatized Adaptation]
By: Michael Anderle
Narrated by: full cast, Colleen Delany, Emily Beresford, Bradley Smith, Michael John Casey, Terence Aselford, Stephon Walker, David Coyne, Christopher Graybill, Nora Achrati, Richard Rohan, Alejandro Ruiz
Series: The Kurtherian Gambit, Book 1, Dramatized Adaptation, The Kurtherian Gambit Universe, Book 1, Dramatized Adaptation
Length: 5 hrs and 16 mins
Genre: Action, Epic, Fantasy, Supernatural.
I’ve been wanting to start this series. I needed to read book 1 to get to book 2 for my alphabet challenge.
My Rating 4.5. I totally enjoyed both books.
Link to my review at Goodreads.
2024TBR, 2024Alphabet, and 2024Audiobook goals.
Source: November 2023 Audible Plus Catalog Pick.
Publisher's summary
There is more in our world than you know. Deep in the darkness of a government building, one man needs to find the perfect solution to a vampire’s request that the government satisfy the debt of honor owed him. If he falls short, the failure will be paid in the blood of the military.
He needs three uniquely qualified individuals. He can find only one. One woman, dying, might be the ace-in-the-hole he needs to appease the Vampire. But then, she might also be the one person needed to save humanity. If she is accepted, will she willingly change? If she is willing to change, will she pass the turning? If she survives the turning, will she be powerful? If she is powerful, what will she do to those who will now want her dead? The universe might forever be changed in her wake.
What you thought you knew about Vampires and Werewolves is wrong...so very, very, wrong.
Performed by Colleen Delany, Emily Beresford, Bradley Smith, Michael John Casey, Terence Aselford, Stephon Walker, David Coyne, Christopher Graybill, Nora Achrati, Richard Rohan, Alejandro Ruiz, Steve Wannall, Chris Genebach, Nick DePinto, Steven Carpenter, Eric Messner, Eva Wilhelm, Henry Kramer, Joel David Santner, Jefferson A. Russell, KenYatta Rogers, Patrick Bussink, Carolyn Kashner and Holly Vagley.
©2015 Michael Anderle (P)2020 GraphicAudio

3. Audible on Smartphone (A2024).

Queen Bitch (Dramatized Adaptation)
By: Michael Anderle
Narrated by: full cast, Colleen Delany, Emily Beresford, Bradley Smith, Danny Gavigan, Zeke Alton, James Lewis, James Konicek, Joel David Santner, Terence Aselford, Christopher Graybill, Jonathan Lee Taylor
Series: The Kurtherian Gambit Universe, Book 2, Dramatized Adaptation, The Kurtherian Gambit, Book 2, Dramatized Adaptation
Length: 4 hrs and 53 mins
Genre: Action, Epic, Fantasy, Supernatural.
My Rating 4.5. I enjoyed both books 1 and two. Lots of action and good character rapport. Link to my review at Goodreads.
This was my "Q" title.
2024TBR, 2024Alphabet, and 2024Audiobook goals.
Source: November 2023 Audible Plus Catalog Pick.
Publisher's summary
The UnknownWorld is reeling from change.
Bethany Anne has started to make a difference in the first week of being awake. Now, America has been losing good men since their teams don't have a vampire to help them.
Frank is hoping Bethany Anne can, and will, help.
Further, the American Pack Council is having internal problems with their own young and dumb weres who want to ignore Michael's strictures. With no one seeing Michael, the fear of the Boogeyman is starting to recede.
That's fine with Bethany Anne; it means she will personally deliver the message there is a new vampire in town.
Immediately following the story of Bethany Anne from Death Becomes Her, Queen Bitch rides a roller coaster of action with a heavy dose of creative cussing. Bethany Anne starts to get a team in place to help her affect change.
Because, whether the UnknownWorld wants it or not, change is coming.
Performed by Colleen Delany, Emily Beresford, Bradley Smith, Danny Gavigan, Zeke Alton, James Lewis, James Konicek, Joel David Santner, Terence Aselford, Christopher Graybill, Jonathan Lee Taylor, Patrick Bussink, Nora Achrati, Darius Johnson, Ken Jackson, John Kielty, Steve Wannall, Chris Stinson, Mort Shelby, Rose Elizabeth Supan, Dylan Lynch, Scott McCormick, Steven Carpenter, Nanette Savard, and Shanta Parasuraman.
©2015 Michael Anderle (P)2020 GraphicAudio

Currently Reading:

1. Audible on Smartphone (TBR).

The Postman
By: David Brin
Narrated by: Kevin Kenerly
Length: 9 hrs and 55 mins
Genre: Adventure, Post Apocalyptic.
I like the movie and wanted to see how the book compares.
2024TBR, 2024Alphabet, and 2024Audiobook goals.
Source: 4/29/2023 Audible Plus Catalog.
Publisher's summary
He was a survivor - a wanderer who traded tales for food and shelter in the dark and savage aftermath of a devastating war.
Fate touches him one chill winter’s day when he borrows the jacket of a long-dead postal worker to protect himself from the cold. The old, worn uniform still has power as a symbol of hope, and with it he begins to weave his greatest tale, of a nation on the road to recovery.
This is the story of a lie that became the most powerful kind of truth. A timeless novel as urgently compelling as War Day or Alas, Babylon, David Brin’s The Postman is the dramatically moving saga of a man who rekindled the spirit of America through the power of a dream, from a modern master of science fiction.
©2020 David Brin (P)2020 Blackstone Publishing

2. eBook - NetGalley App on Smartphone (NGeB2024)

If the Boot Fits
By Karen Witemeyer
Pub Date 12 Mar 2024 | Archive Date 21 Apr 2024
Bethany House, Bethany House Publishers
Genre: Christian | Historical Fiction | Romance
This is a charming story. I am at 70% and hope to finish this week.
2024NetGalley, 2024Alphabet, and 2024ebook Goals. Source: 1/12/2024 ebook from NetGalley.
Click on link to see full description.

Sort of ON HOLD. Kindle (/NetGalley )App on Smartphone (NGeB2023)

The Altered Moon 2: The Tyrant of Unity
By James McGettigan, Jingjing Huntley (Photographer), Fabiana Granado, Kyle Davis, Jason Frank, Serena Lucatero, Jacqui Corn-Uys (Editor), Anthony McGettigan (Editor), Judy McGettigan (Editor)
Genre: Alien Invasion, Space Sci Fi.
This is still reading slowly. I have reached 69%.
Although I am reading the other NetGalley ebook, I open this each day to read on the Kindle App.
Source: December 27, 2023 NetGalley.
2024TBR, 2024NetGalley, 2024Alphabet, and 2024ebook Goals.
Click on link to see full description.

I will be looking for titles with the letters O, X, and Y for my next picks. I only have these 3 letters of the alphabet left.

March 3, 2024 - I am enjoying the YouVersion App called The Bible Recap with Tara Leigh Cobble. (The link is to the plan online.) We are still reading in Numbers and I am learning more with each day's discussion. I appreciate how Tara Leigh Cobble's discussion points out each day that "God is where the Joy is."
I am 19 days into a 40 day study for Lent: Hillsong: 40 Days of Revival.

I finished three books, rated with mini reviews at Goodreads.

NETGALLEY STATUS--
I continue on two ebooks. I still have another ebook and an older audio on my shelf I need to listen to.
I still have the two old NetGalley ebook titles.

Other Sources: I have a dozen or so books that I received from Facebook links and newsletter sign-ups, not specific review requests. plus many titles through InstaFreebie over the past few years.

Welcome to Mailbox Monday.

No new review titles.
I selected two for one Fictions deal at Audiobooks.com. I used all my credits but I get another on the 5th.

When I went to get the info to list the audiobooks, I realized I never listed four purchased in January and the January VIP so they are included today.

No new Kindle titles this week.
Are your mailbox and TBR piles blooming?

Review Titles

NONE

Won

NONE

Purchased

January 2024 Two for One Sci Fi deal at Audiobooks.com

Burrowed
Written By: Mary Baader Kaley
Narrated By: Ann Marie Gideon
Duration 12 Hours 14 Minutes

Wild Lands
Series: #2 Of New Frontier
Written By: Anthony Melchiorri, Nicholas Sansbury Smith
Narrated By: Bronson Pinchot
Duration 12 Hours 23 Minutes

January Two for One Fiction deal at Audiobooks.com

Missing Molly
Written By: Natalie Barelli
Narrated By: Lucy Price-Lewis
Duration 7 Hours 57 Minutes

The Oceans and the Stars: A Sea Story, A War Story, A Love Story; The Seven Battles and Mutiny of Athena, Patrol Coastal Ship 15
Written By: Mark Helprin
Narrated By: Traber Burns
Duration 21 Hours 36 Minutes

3/2/2024 Two for One Fiction Deal at Audiobooks.com.

Hanging Falls: A Timber Creek K-9 Mystery, Book 6
Series: #6 Of Timber Creek K-9 Mysteries
Written By: Margaret Mizushima
Narrated By: Nancy Wu
Duration 10 hours 10 minutes
Mystery, Suspense.

Encounters in the Woods: Volumes 1-4
Written By: Ethan Hayes
Narrated By: Justin Price
Duration 11 hours 41 minutes
Genre: Medicine & Naturopathy

Free

1/2024 January VIP at Audiobooks.com.

Sons of Valor
Series: #1 Of The Sons Of Valor Series
Written By: Jeffrey Wilson, Brian Andrews
Narrated By: Ray Porter
Duration 12 Hours 5 Minutes
Genre: Action, Military

I still have many Audible Plus titles to list from January and February 2024.

No new free titles added to Kindle library. Free titles might be found at Bookbub, Book Adrenaline, Ereader News Today, Inspired Reads, or Kindle ebooks.

Sunday Words of Encouragement March 3, 2024 - Not Like Many.

2024-03-03T16:50:00.000-06:00

I was so happy to have my eldest granddaughter (16) attend church with me this morning.
This morning was Mission Sunday where the young children in BGMC collect change (and dollars) for missions around the world. Among these missions that received funds is the Convoy of Hope which has been to our own community, for Hurricane Michael in 2018 and again last month for the tornado that ravaged homes in our community.

Pastor continued his messages from Nehemiah with a sermon from Nehemiah 7:1-5 which he titled “Not Like Many”. The book of Nehemiah was written by Ezra and tells of the remnant returning to rebuild. These actions are the fulfillment of prophecies given by Isaiah and Jeremiah. We are reminded that the rebuild doesn't look like the way it was. It is a new season.

The enemy continues to obstruct the efforts as he always does in three ways: criticism, confusion and discouragement.

God always makes a way for His will to be accomplished. He who has begun a good work will be faithful to complete it. Philippians 1:6.

As the wall was being completed, Nehemiah looked to appoint leaders to continue the work; who could be entrusted with God's work. The man is described as “a faithful man and honored God with fear more than many.” Nehemiah 7:2 NLV. A faithful, trustworthy man; more than the many. Faithful means consistent, honest, and stable, with integrity. The job was not for doubters or the wishy-washy. God wants men who will be good and faithful servants. Matthew 25:21.
The trusted leaders were faithful, trusting God. and God-fearing, not man-fearing.
The mother of Zebedee’s sons asked for favorable position for her sons. But Jesus responds that “Whoever wants to be first among you, let him be your servant.” Matthew 20:20-28.

Nehemiah was a servant leader. He chose others who were faithful and God fearing.
Leaders, 1 Timothy 1:18-19; and helpers, 1 Timothy 3:9-10. Titus 1:7-9.
The work that God has done is too precious to leave in the hands of those who aren't faithful and God fearing. It is certain that the enemy will come back. Good leaders are to guard the work. Nehemiah 7:3.

The city large, but people were few, no houses rebuilt. Nehemiah 7:4. God was looking for a remnant. He will work through the remnant.

God provides the vision, not man. God ‘put it into [the] heart’ of Nehemiah to take gather the people and note their names. Nehemiah 7:5. How did he hear from God? Nehemiah was praying. It is hard to be spirit-filled if we are not in prayer. Worshipping is more than music. Our honor to God should be from our hearts, it should be spirit worship. Seek Him in secret and He will use you.

God sees everyone. No one is beyond His sight and notice. Everyone has a place. We all have a part in the Kingdom. A broken bone/body part hurts the whole. When a member is broken it hurts the whole Kingdom.

I like this song video for today.

Verses for Today:
Nehemiah 7:1-2 New Life Version
7 When the wall was built and I had set up the doors, and the gate-keepers and singers and Levites were chosen, 2 I gave my brother Hanani, and Hanaiah the captain of the strong place, the work of watching over Jerusalem. For he was a faithful man and honored God with fear more than many.

Lord, I pray that you direct a strong remnant to complete your good work!

Sunday Post February 25, 2024/It's Monday! What are You Reading? Plus Mailbox Monday February 26, 2024

2024-02-25T20:51:00.002-06:00

I am linking with Sunday Post at Caffeinated Book Reviewer.

It's Monday! What Are You Reading? now at The Book Date (at Wordpress)

I continue to feel productive at work. I'll miss a lot of Monday as I have the doctor appointment in the morning and then dog vet appointments at the end of the day.
I am hoping to put off buying a new computer for another few weeks at least. (Just as I finished that sentence, the computer crashed. *Sigh*)

February 16 a handful of my woman's club group served as judges for the local Responders Chili Cookoff. The offerings were varied and delicious. The cornbread was excellent too!

I did a little walking last week but I still want to restart the chair yoga.

I will continue to pray for the Advent messages all year: Hope, Peace, Joy, and Love.

Our weather warmed up pretty nicely this past week. The days were windy but temps were mostly in the 70s during the day and 50s at night. Should be the same this week.

I finished three audios and made a progress in two ebooks. I did short reviews, two at Goodreads.

I visited 11 blogs last week.
Audiobooks.com is still sharing some free listens for children.

Sunday Post February 18, 2024/It's Monday! What are You Reading? Plus Mailbox Monday February 19, 2024.

MarthaE Cooking #7.

Sunday Words of Encouragement February 25, 2024 - Do the Work With God.

Finished Reading:

1. Audio on Smartphone (ATBR).

Prodigal
A Supernatural Crime Thriller
By Judy K. Walker
Book #1 Dead Hollow
Read by Alex Knox
Run Time 9h 46min
Genre: Crime, Mystery, Supernatural, Thriller.
My Rating 4.25. This read quickly and had interesting characters.
I did a short review at Goodreads.
I needed a change from space so I picked this thriller for my “P” title.
2024TBR, 2024Alphabet, and 2024Audiobook Goals.
Source: 12/4/2021 Chirp purchase $1.99.
Click on link to see full description.

2. Audible on Smartphone (A2024).

Redacted Affairs
By: Kevin Ikenberry, Kevin Steverson, Chris Kennedy - editor, Mark Wandrey - editor
Narrated by: James Anderson Foster
Series: Rise of the Peacemakers, Book 1
Length: 10 hrs and 49 mins
Genre: Fantasy, First Contact
My Rating: 4.25 I enjoyed this intriguing story full of alien and human characters working together to uncover corruption. The lead creature characters are newly appointed Peacemakers sent undercover. After observation and engagement on the planet they ultimately are joined by an interesting mercenary team who help when trouble erupts. I am glad book 2 is available and not expiring this month as I will listen to it too.
The narration is very well done with clear, distinct voices and energy that fits the story.
This is another Audible Plus expiring 2/29. It filled "R" title for my alphabet challenge.
2024Alphabet and 2024Audiobook Goals.
Source: February 2024 Audible Plus title.
Publisher's summary
Peacemakers. The Galactic Union’s most capable enforcers and resolute negotiators, their name alone elicits fear and awe among the Union’s citizenry.
It is a time of upheaval throughout the Galactic Union. As the effects of the Omega War ripple outward, a Peacemaker falls silent at the outpost mining colony of Parmick. Sensing danger, the Peacemaker Guild dispatches two new graduates of the Academy to investigate and report. They are a new breed of Peacemaker, perfect for the clandestine infiltration mission.
Parmick is in chaos. The miners are planning to revolt, and the mine owner is rallying every mercenary and ne’er-do-well he can to protect his illegal mining operation; the Peacemakers soon realize it will require combat operations to free the citizens of Parmick. Meanwhile, the Peacemaker Guild also finds the mining operation is financing the actions of the disgraced Enforcer Kr’et’Socae. Honoring the threat, the Peacemaker Guild unleashes its Enforcers.
With the galaxy teetering on the edge of chaos, can the Peacemakers and their surprising new allies liberate Parmick, stabilize the Galactic Union, and unlock the next clue to find Snowman? From the minds of Kevin Ikenberry and Kevin Steverson comes a new set of heroes who will forever change the Peacemaker Guild and the course of the Galactic Union.
©2019 Kevin Ikenberry and Kevin Steverson (P)2020 Podium Publishing

3. Audio on Smartphone (A2024).

Trace of Doubt
Author Diann Mills
Narrator: Tara Langella
Duration: 8 h 50 min
Genre: Christian, Clean, Romance
My Rating: 4.5 I like romantic suspense and this has the plus of having strong Christian faith as part of the characters, not in a preachy way. It is a quick listen.
I did a review at Goodreads.
I selected this as a change to space/sci fi and as my "T" title.
2024TBR, 2024Alphabet, and 2024Audiobook goals.
Source: 7/9/2022 Audiobooks Two for One Credit.
SUMMARY
Bestselling and award-winning author DiAnn Mills delivers a heart-stopping story of dark secrets, desperate enemies, and dangerous lies.
Fifteen years ago, Shelby Pearce confessed to murdering her brother-in-law and was sent to prison. Now she’s out on parole and looking for a fresh start in the small town of Valleysburg, Texas. But starting over won’t be easy for an ex-con.
FBI Special Agent Denton McClure was a rookie fresh out of Quantico when he was first assigned the Pearce case. He’s always believed Shelby embezzled five hundred thousand dollars from her brother-in-law’s account. So he’s going undercover to befriend Shelby, track down the missing money, and finally crack this case.
But as Denton gets closer to Shelby, he begins to have a trace of doubt about her guilt. Someone has Shelby in their crosshairs. It’s up to Denton to stop them before they silence Shelby―and the truth―forever.

Currently Reading:
1. Audible on Smartphone (A2024).

The Upheaval
By: Erica Stevens , Claire Bloom
Narrated by: Stefan Rudnicki
Series: The Survivor Chronicles, Book 1
Length: 9 hrs and 15 mins
Genre: Disaster, Horror, Suspense
I was ready for an apocalyptic type tale and chose this as my "U" title.
2024TBR, 2024Alphabet, and 2024Audiobook goals.
Source: September 2020 Audible Plus.
Publisher's summary
The first tremors of the earth were felt at 7:22 EST. time. Every single person felt the rumbling and experienced the tremors that would forever alter the course of history. Most did not survive. These are the accounts of some of those who did.
Following three sets of people, The Upheaval is filled with heartbreak and hope. The day starts out like any other but soon goes to calamity. From earthquake to fire to tsunami, they must face disaster from every angle - the world they once knew has shattered in a just a few hours.
©2018 Erica Stevens (P)2018 Blackstone Audio, Inc., and Skyboat Media, Inc.

2. eBook - NetGalley App on Smartphone (NGeB2024)

If the Boot Fits
By Karen Witemeyer
Pub Date 12 Mar 2024 | Archive Date 21 Apr 2024
Bethany House, Bethany House Publishers
Genre: Christian | Historical Fiction | Romance
I am still enjoying this - reached 50%
2024NetGalley, 2024Alphabet, and 2024ebook Goals. Source: 1/12/2024 ebook from NetGalley.
Click on link to see full description.

Sort of ON HOLD. Kindle (/NetGalley )App on Smartphone (NGeB2023)

The Altered Moon 2: The Tyrant of Unity
By James McGettigan, Jingjing Huntley (Photographer), Fabiana Granado, Kyle Davis, Jason Frank, Serena Lucatero, Jacqui Corn-Uys (Editor), Anthony McGettigan (Editor), Judy McGettigan (Editor)
Genre: Alien Invasion, Space Sci Fi.
This is still reading slowly. I have reached 67%.
Although I am reading the other NetGalley ebook, I open this each day to read on the Kindle App.
Source: December 27, 2023 NetGalley.
2024TBR, 2024NetGalley, 2024Alphabet, and 2024ebook Goals.
Click on link to see full description.

I will be looking for titles with the letters O, Q, X, and Y for my next picks. I only have these 4 letters of the alphabet left.

February 25, 2024 - I am enjoying the YouVersion App called The Bible Recap with Tara Leigh Cobble. (The link is to the plan online.) We are reading in Numbers now. I appreciate how Tara Leigh Cobble's discussion points out each day that "God is where the Joy is."
I also started a 40 day study for Lent to Easter: Hillsong: 40 Days of Revival.

I finished three books, rated with mini reviews at Goodreads or in comments above.

NETGALLEY STATUS--
I continue on two ebooks. I still have another ebook and an older audio on my shelf I need to listen to.
I still have the two old NetGalley ebook titles.

Other Sources: I have a dozen or so books that I received from Facebook links and newsletter sign-ups, not specific review requests. plus many titles through InstaFreebie over the past few years.

Welcome to Mailbox Monday.

No new review titles.
I selected a two for one Dystopian deal at Audiobooks.com.

No new Kindle titles this week.
Are your mailbox and TBR piles blooming?

Review Titles

NONE

Won

NONE

Purchased

2/24/2024 Two for One Credit Dystopian Deal at Audiobooks.com.

A Longer Fall
Written By: Charlaine Harris
Narrated By: Eva Kaminsky
Series: #2 Of Gunnie Rose
Duration 8 hours 9 minutes
Genre: Dystopian, Fantasy, Sci Fi

The Last Exit
Written By: Michael Kaufman
Narrated By: Emily Woo Zeller, J. D. Jackson
Duration 10 hours 58 minutes
Genre: Dystopian, Fantasy, Police Procedure

Free

These are the last 8 Audible Plus titles acquired on 12/30/2023.

Whistlin' Dixie in a Nor'easter
By: Lisa Patton
Narrated by: Marguerite Gavin
Series: Dixie Series, Book 1
Length: 10 hrs and 49 mins

Living Lies
By: Natalie Walters
Narrated by: Morgan Hallett
Series: Harbored Secrets, Book 1
Length: 10 hrs and 57 mins

Murder's a Witch
By: Danielle Garrett
Narrated by: Amanda Ronconi
Series: Beechwood Harbor Magic Mysteries, Book 1
Length: 6 hrs and 48 mins

The Tower of Ravens
By: Kate Forsyth
Narrated by: Elle Newlands
Series: The Rhiannon’s Ride Series, Book 1
Length: 16 hrs and 51 mins

The Shining City
By: Kate Forsyth
Narrated by: Elle Newlands
Series: The Rhiannon’s Ride Series, Book 2
Length: 19 hrs and 8 mins

A Christmas Dinner on Marshall Street
By: Jacie Middlemann
Narrated by: Virtual Voice
Length: 1 hr and 58 mins

When You Least Expect It
By: Haley Cass
Narrated by: Lori Prince
Length: 8 hrs and 7 mins

Orson Scott Card's Intergalactic Medicine Show
By: Orson Scott Card, David Farland, Tim Pratt, James Maxey, David Lubar, Eric James Stone, Ty Franck, Scott M. Roberts, Peter Orullian, Rachel Ann Dryden
Narrated by: J. Paul Boehmer, Cassandra Campbell, Emily Janice Card, Mark Deakins, Don Leslie, Rosalyn Landor, Stefan Rudnicki
Series: The Enderverse
Length: 12 hrs and 15 mins

I still have many Audible Plus titles to list from January and February 2024.

No new free titles added to Kindle library. Free titles might be found at Bookbub, Book Adrenaline, Ereader News Today, Inspired Reads, or Kindle ebooks.

Sunday Words of Encouragement February 25, 2024 - Do the Work With God.

2024-02-25T14:07:00.005-06:00

Pastor continued his series today in Nehemiah with Chapter 6. The enemy is pressuring Nehemiah. The enemy seeks to stop God’s plan – then and now.

Beware as some of God’s enemies have silver tongues and appear harmless or good. But a discerning spirit will sense something wrong. Enemies can have a good reputation. They want to get their agenda done. Nehemiah 6:17. They made their attack personal. The enemy will destroy you with distraction and negative thoughts.

The enemy tried to call Nehemiah out four times but he refused to leave the work to go to their meeting. They were attacking his integrity. Nehemiah 6:5-7. The enemy will accuse others of motives they have (transference). Titus 1:15.

Nehemiah resisted the challenges and impulse to fight them directly. Nehemiah 6:8. Don’t take vengeance in your own hands. Stick with your job and let God deal with the enemy. Our job is to build the Kingdom: win the lost, minister love and peace; share the hope of Christ. Don’t get caught up so you become more political than spiritual.

They used intimidation. Nehemiah 6:9-10, 17-18. Nehemiah said, “No.” Nehemiah 6:11-14. Sometimes the enemy uses false prophets. Shemiah was a false prophet encouraging Nehemiah to go into the temple when he was not sanctioned to do so. We must be discerning. People who lack wisdom can be led astray. 2 Timothy 3:1-7.

Nehemiah prayed each time and asked God to give him wisdom and strength and for God to deal with the enemy. The work was accomplished with the help of God. Nehemiah 6:16. We are to set our mind on the work of God, not the work of the world. 2 Timothy 3:12-15.

There are evil people and agendas surrounding us. The church has to do its mission in order to show the enemy that the work of God is being done with His help. You will reap a harvest… keep on focusing on God’s work. God knows there is opposition, but He says continue to follow me and do my Will. He will handle the enemy but wants His followers to show His love and life.

We will ultimately win on our knees, not in the political battle. Pray – intercede for those who may be under attack. God will win!

I like this song for today: The Battle is Yours.

A Verse for Today:
Nehemiah 6:16 NIV
16 When all our enemies heard about this, all the surrounding nations were afraid and lost their self-confidence, because they realized that this work had been done with the help of our God.

Lord, help me stay focused on Your Will, to do your work and trust you to win the battles.

MarthaE Cooking #7

2024-02-24T22:15:00.000-06:00

These are my HelloFresh meals (six dinners with extra steak for a lunch too) plus a pastry for a valentine week. I am getting a little better at the timing so it isn't taking me twice as long, just a little longer. The meals are still tasty and interesting.

HelloFresh Everything Bagel Avocado Toasts

with Balsamic Mixed Greens & Grape Tomatoes.

I figure the avocado and greens balance out the Sourdough toast.
This was a breakfast pick but I ate it for dinner - it was quick to fix.

This is my own creation based on You Tube versions.
Boursin Black Truffle and Sea Salt Cheese Pastry - before cooking and when ready.
I made this for a lunch gathering at church. I used melted cheese as a dip which was good too.
Next time I might use a cream cheese and jam for more dessert flavors.

HelloFresh Prosciutto & Apple Arugula Salad,

with Feta, Pecans, Balsamic Glaze & Olive Toasts.
The toast is Ciabatta.
This is a lunch item again used for dinner as it only took 10 minute to fix.

Sadly the Arugala didn't look fresh when I went to make this. I used some olives instead.

HelloFresh Taverna Steak and Dilly Potato Wedges
with Zucchini-Onion Jumble & Tzatziki (salted yogurt and cucumber dip).
The dip adds a lovely flavor to the meal!

Sunday Post February 18, 2024/It's Monday! What are You Reading? Plus Mailbox Monday February 19, 2024

2024-02-18T22:50:00.001-06:00

I am linking with Sunday Post at Caffeinated Book Reviewer.

It's Monday! What Are You Reading? now at The Book Date (at Wordpress)

My work continues busy but I do feel I am being productive and moving forward.
I had a couple of nights where the computer crashed and I didn't bother to reboot it. I am looking at new computers before this one goes completely kaput.

My daughter remembered me on Valentine's Day. This was sweet as she learned from my sweet Bob who never missed a special day (and many regular days) to give me flowers.

I took a week off the chair yoga but did several days of walking routines. I may restart the chair yoga again.

I will continue to pray for the Advent messages all year: Hope, Peace, Joy, and Love.

I was surprised to talk to my son Saturday night and learn that they were shoveling now Friday and Saturday! We had some very nice crisp days, a couple of rainy days and then the rain brought in some cooler temperatures in the 30s at night.

I finished two audios and made a little progress in two ebooks. I did a short review on the second at Goodreads but it is the same as set forth below.

I only visited 3 blogs last week to link up. I have to make up with visits this week.

Audiobooks.com is still sharing some free listens for children.

Sunday Post February 11, 2024/It's Monday! What are You Reading? Plus Mailbox Monday February 12, 2024.

MarthaE Cooking #6.

Sunday Words of Encouragement February 18, 2024 - Give and Do Good.

Finished Reading:

1. Audible on Smartphone (A2024).

The North Star
By: Killian Carter
Narrated by: Sean Runnette
Series: Galactic Sentinel, Book 1
Length: 11 hrs and 53 mins
Genre: Military, Space Opera
My Rating: 4.0. This is full of action and characters that grew on me. The narration was good and added to the work. I will likely continue the series.
This was a free title expiring 2/29 and filled the "N" title.
2024Alphabet and 2024Audiobook Goals.
Source: February 2024 Audible Plus title.
Click on link to see full description.

2. Audible on Smartphone (A2024).

Metal Fury: Publisher's Pack
Metal Fury, Books 1-2
By: Jonathan Yanez, Stevie Collier
Narrated by: Chris Ciulla
Series: Metal Fury, Book 1-2
Length: 17 hrs and 28 mins
Genre: Fantasy, Military, Space Opera.
My Rating on Book 1: 4.0. The main character, Jack, is a bit bumbling and awkward. He was an orphan who ended up being raised in the military with a companion AI and mech armor that he loves. He is a good guy who is chosen to become a hero to fight an evil scheme of destruction.
I mostly enjoyed the story but the continual crazy battles with last minute escapes became tiring. The narration was very good, but I will not continue with book 2 at this time even though it is free.
This is another Audible Plus expiring 2/29. It filled "M" title for my alphabet challenge.
2024Alphabet and 2024Audiobook Goals.
Source: February 2024 Audible Plus title.
Publisher's summary
Contains books one and two of the Metal Fury series.
I Am Mech, book one
His job was to guard against terrorist threats. Now he’s discovered an even more sinister enemy. To stop this encroaching doom, the people cry out for a hero. Instead, they get Jack.
This ace mech pilot contends with legendary prophecies, ancient powers, and fickle companions as he sets out on an epic task to save his planet from a baddie hellbent on destruction. Has his positive self-talk got him in too deep, or will he actually pull through to do some good this time?
Mech Planet, book two
The path to freedom leads to combat in a slave arena.
He’s only just survived the trash planet. Now, Jack has arrived in a new world to find his friends captured and enslaved. The twisted politics of Shivbowl leave little room for his normal antics. He’ll have to play by their rules and beat out the competition in the mech battling games.
While hope for freedom fades, a new darkness promises everything Jack has ever wanted but goes against everything a Knight stands for. Can he resist this powerful calling?
©2020 Archimedes Books (P)2020 Podium Audio.

Currently Reading:

1. Audio on Smartphone (ATBR).

Prodigal
A Supernatural Crime Thriller
By Judy K. Walker
Book #1 Dead Hollow
Read by Alex Knox
Run Time 9h 46min
Genre: Crime, Mystery, Supernatural, Thriller.
I am already 60% in and it is reading quickly.
I needed a change from space so I picked this thriller for my “P” title.
2024TBR, 2024Alphabet, and 2024Audiobook Goals.
Source: 12/4/2021 Chirp purchase $1.99.
PUBLISHER DESCRIPTION
It’s happening again. And either Adam’s crazy, or he’s a kidnapped child’s only hope.
Drifter Adam Rutledge is haunted by his childhood, by how helpless he felt when his best friend was abducted and how terrifying it was to see the boy’s fate in his nightmares.
Twenty years later Adam is shaken by a vivid dream, one powerful enough to send him back to Cold Springs. But his Appalachian hometown never lost its mistrust of the orphaned boy who drew heartache like a lightning rod. Especially now that another child has been taken.
To find the missing girl, Adam must dig deep and solve the riddle of his own tragic past. When his efforts unleash visions he’s spent decades burying, his sanity stretches to the breaking point. And all the while, a man is watching and waiting in the shadows.
A madman who means to kill him.
Prodigal is the first book in the Dead Hollow psychic suspense trilogy. If you like crime thrillers with authentic characters and a dash of paranormal, then you’ll love Judy K. Walker’s haunting series.

2. eBook - NetGalley App on Smartphone (NGeB2024)

If the Boot Fits
By Karen Witemeyer
Pub Date 12 Mar 2024 | Archive Date 21 Apr 2024
Bethany House, Bethany House Publishers
Genre: Christian | Historical Fiction | Romance
I am still enjoying this - reached 25%
2024NetGalley, 2024Alphabet, and 2024ebook Goals. Source: 1/12/2024 ebook from NetGalley.
Click on link to see full description.

Sort of ON HOLD. Kindle (/NetGalley )App on Smartphone (NGeB2023)

The Altered Moon 2: The Tyrant of Unity
By James McGettigan, Jingjing Huntley (Photographer), Fabiana Granado, Kyle Davis, Jason Frank, Serena Lucatero, Jacqui Corn-Uys (Editor), Anthony McGettigan (Editor), Judy McGettigan (Editor)
Genre: Alien Invasion, Space Sci Fi.
This is still reading slowly. I have reached 64%.
Although I am reading the other NetGalley ebook, I open this each day to read on the Kindle App.
Source: December 27, 2023 NetGalley.
2024TBR, 2024NetGalley, 2024Alphabet, and 2024ebook Goals.
Click on link to see full description.

I will be looking next for titles with the letters O, Q, R, T, U, X, and Y for my next picks. I only have these 7 letters left now as I am zipping through this challenge.

February 18, 2024 - I am enjoying the YouVersion App called The Bible Recap with Tara Leigh Cobble. (The link is to the plan online.) We are reading in Leviticus which sets a lot of the regulations for the Israelites, always showing that God is Holy and yet he desires us to draw near.

I finished two books, rated with mini reviews/comments above.

NETGALLEY STATUS--
I continue on two ebooks. I still have another ebook and an older audio on my shelf I need to listen to.
I still have the two old NetGalley ebook titles.

Other Sources: I have a dozen or so books that I received from Facebook links and newsletter sign-ups, not specific review requests. plus many titles through InstaFreebie over the past few years.

Welcome to Mailbox Monday.

No new review titles.
I selected my two January Audible Credits.

I also chose my Audiobooks.com VIP for February.

No new Kindle titles this week.
Are your mailbox and TBR piles blooming?

Review Titles

NONE

Won

NONE

Purchased

2/17/24 January Audible Credits: Both of these are to continue the series.

The Extinction Survival Series Box Set
Lost Valley, Satan's Gate, Cost of Survival & Warrior's Fate
By: Walt Browning
Narrated by: Bronson Pinchot
Length: 38 hrs

Galactic Breach
Ruins of the Galaxy, Book 2
By: Christopher Hopper, J. N. Chaney
Narrated by: R.C. Bray
Length: 9 hrs and 59 mins

Free

2/17/2024 February VIP Audiobooks.com. This sounds fun.

Not the Witch You Wed
Series: #1 Of Supernatural Singles
Written By: April Asher
Narrated By: Zura Johnson
Duration: 12 hours 15 minutes

5 more Audible Plus titles from 12/1 to 12/17/2023.

Ninefox Gambit
By: Yoon Ha Lee
Narrated by: Emily Woo Zeller
Series: Machineries of Empire , Book 1
Length: 10 hrs and 52 mins

My Dead World 2: My Dead World, Book 2
By: Jacqueline Druga
Narrated by: Kelsey Navarro
Series: My Dead World Series , Book 2
Length: 5 hrs and 18 mins

Cole Blooded: Cole Blooded, Book 1
By: Blaise Corvin, Outspan Foster
Narrated by: Ryan Burke
Series: Cole Blooded , Book 1
Length: 6 hrs and 13 mins

Mitigating Risk: Nora Hazard Series, Book 1
By: Blaise Corvin
Narrated by: Emily Beresford
Series: Nora Hazard , Book 1
Length: 7 hrs and 49 mins

Competitive Advantage: Nora Hazard Series, Book 2
By: Blaise Corvin
Narrated by: Emily Beresford
Series: Nora Hazard , Book 2
Length: 7 hrs and 45 mins

I still have 8 Audible Plus titles to list from 2023 and some from 2024.

No new free titles added to Kindle library. Free titles might be found at Bookbub, Book Adrenaline, Ereader News Today, Inspired Reads, or Kindle ebooks.

Sunday Word's of Encouragement February 18, 2024 - Give and Do Good.

2024-02-18T20:51:00.000-06:00

We started today’s service with warm worship. Prayer for each other’s needs – peace, direction, healing, strength… Your Will Be Done!

Today’s sermon was inspired by the scripture Nehemiah 5:1-6.
In addition to the physical building, there is need for a spiritual rebuilding. The poor were being exploited by the leaders charging interest. There came a great cry. God hears our cries. Isaiah 59:1.

We live in a culture that is greedy. We have to learn to be content and not seek more over seeking to give to help others. We brought nothing into this world, and we can take nothing out. 1 Timothy 6:10. We are not to be haughty in our wealth. 1 Timothy 6:17.
God wants us to increase our status of giving, not our status of living. 1 Timothy 6:18-19. It is a Christian process to give. Acts 2:43-45.

What you are giving may be the answer to someone else’s prayer.
This is when we are generous givers:
1. Give away more than you spend on luxuries like automobiles, vacations.
2. You view your resources as tools to do good works for the kingdom so that God is glorified.
3. You are more blessed when you give than receive.

He who knows the right thing and doesn’t do it, to him it is sin. James 4:17. Fear of God is a key to keep you doing right
Even if someone isn’t a good steward and doesn’t take care of the gifts, we don’t get to choose. God is the judge and he calls us to be generous.

I chose this song for today: Everlasting God!

Verses for Today
Nehemiah 5:1-6:14 NIV
Nehemiah Helps the Poor
5 Now the men and their wives raised a great outcry against their fellow Jews. 2 Some were saying, “We and our sons and daughters are numerous; in order for us to eat and stay alive, we must get grain.”
3 Others were saying, “We are mortgaging our fields, our vineyards and our homes to get grain during the famine.”
4 Still others were saying, “We have had to borrow money to pay the king’s tax on our fields and vineyards. 5 Although we are of the same flesh and blood as our fellow Jews and though our children are as good as theirs, yet we have to subject our sons and daughters to slavery. Some of our daughters have already been enslaved, but we are powerless, because our fields and our vineyards belong to others.”
6 When I heard their outcry and these charges, I was very angry.

Lord, help me to be mindful of the needs of others and help me to give generously of my resources.

(Image found at YouVersion Study)

MarthaE Cooking #6

2024-02-17T23:04:00.003-06:00

These are my HelloFresh meals for early February. It is still taking me longer than they say to do the prep and cooking but I am enjoying the cooking and the flavors. I listen to audio books while cooking which is a plus for me.

Mexican-Style Beef & Bean "Lasagna".

This uses tortillas instead of noodles.

It was very good and provided six servings for me.

Sweet & Spicy Rainbow Edamame Rice Bowls,

with Cabbage, Carrots & Sesame Dressing.
I can't say "edamame" right but I do like it and this was an easy dish to make.

Creamy Cilantro Steak Bowls,

with Garlic Lime Rice & Charred Green Pepper...plus Jalapeño (to taste).

I like steak and cilantro. The sauce was wonderful and a couple of Jalapeño slices was enough to add just a bit more flavor.

This is HelloFresh Bacon which is nice and thick with two poached eggs I made for Saturday breakfast.

Creamy Dreamy Mushroom Cavatappi, with scallions & Parmesan.

This was easy to fix and another yummy dish for three meals for me.

Sunday Post February 11, 2024/It's Monday! What are You Reading? Plus Mailbox Monday February 12, 2024

2024-02-11T22:32:00.000-06:00

I am linking with Sunday Post at Caffeinated Book Reviewer.

It's Monday! What Are You Reading? now at The Book Date (at Wordpress)

My second ultrasound did not clearly show any mass so the radiologist decided there was nothing to biopsy. That is good news. There is a cyst they will review again in 6 months. Meanwhile, I still see the surgeon in two weeks to decide if we will do other surgery to stop the daily/nightly bleeding. It is only a little but it is annoying as I have to protect my clothing and sheets.
Again, I thank everyone for good wishes and prayers.

This is some of the damage I had from a couple of weeks ago in our "spring room". I have to get help to put up new screening and/or plastic. So little time and so much to juggle!

I feel like I am making progress, even if slowly, at catching up on work.
I finished a month of chair yoga so now I am adding some walking routines and wall yoga.

I will continue to pray for the Advent messages all year: Hope, Peace, Joy, and Love.

We had a range of temperatures again last week. The sun was out until the weekend when it rained More rain is expected Monday then clear days. The temps will dip below 40 only one night. Day temps will be 60 to 71 so that should be nice.

I finished three audios and made a little progress in two ebooks. I did one review on Audible but it hasn't shown up yet.

I visited 15 blogs last week. I have decided I won't be adding shout outs (unless I come across a new one in my blog comments) until I feel I am getting more caught up.

Audiobooks.com is still sharing some free listens for children.

Sunday Post February 4, 2024/It's Monday! What are You Reading? Plus Mailbox Monday February 5, 2024.

Sunday Words of Encouragement February 11, 2024 - Rebuke Discouragement.

Finished Reading:
1. Audible on Smartphone (ATBR).

Galaxy on Fire: Publisher's Pack
By: Craig Robertson
Narrated by: Scott Aiello
Series: Galaxy on Fire, Book 1-2
Length: 13 hrs and 17 mins
Genre: Adventure, Funny, Space Opera.
This showed up as expiring 2/29 so I listened to it as my "G" title.
My Rating 3.75. There is some entertainment in this series but the silliness is over the top silly. I don't expect to continue with any more.
2024TBR, 2024Alphabet, and 2024Audiobook Goals.
Source: April 2023 Audible Plus.
Click on link to see full description.

2. Audio on Smartphone (ATBR).

Howl's Moving Castle
By Diana Wynne Jones
Duration: 8 h 37 min
Genre: Fantasy, Folklore, Young Adult
I figured it was time to listen to this classic.
It is my “H” title.
My Rating 5.0. This is delightful, easy and entertaining listening.
2024TBR, 2024Alphabet, and 2024Audiobook Goals.
7/22/2019 Audiobooks.com 2 for 1 Credit.
Click on link to see full description.

3. Audible on Smartphone (A2024).

Knighthood
By: Evan Currie
Narrated by: Cassandra Campbell
Series: Atlantis Rising Trilogy, Book 1
Length: 11 hrs and 36 mins
Genre: Military, Post Apocalyptic.
This popped up as a Plus title that is expiring 2/29/24. I liked the looks of it so I chose it for my "K" alphabet title.
My Rating: 4.75. I found this entertaining and liked the characters and the world building. This is a good v. evil story with plenty of action. I submitted my review on Audible but it doesn't show up yet.
I expect I will get the next books in the series.
2024Alphabet and 2024Audiobook Goals.
Source: February 2024 Audible Plus title.
Publisher's summary
The last war was fought with weapons unimaginable....
A war was fought. Humanity lost.
Time for a rematch.
The world fell, the invaders won, and demons now ruled what had once been man's domain. The great works of a once powerful civilization lie in ruins, its people having forgotten the wonders of their forefathers as they now live in the yoke. Not everyone is willing to go quietly into the endless night, however, and for every inch of ground they'd won, they had paid in blood and bone. At the end of it all, however, the demons stood victorious and all that was left to accomplish was the final cleanup of the human pests that infested occasional parts of the conquered world.
In one nearly uninhabitable part of that world, a very young such pest has come of age and, without understanding what it means, she walks in the shadow of destiny.
The demons have a lesson to learn, one last to be taught to them by humans, before they can call this world truly their own.
A cleansing fire can start from the smallest of sparks...and it is always darkest just before the dawn.
©2017 Evan Currie (P)2017 Podium Publishing

Currently Reading:

1. Audible on Smartphone (A2024).

The North Star
By: Killian Carter
Narrated by: Sean Runnette
Series: Galactic Sentinel, Book 1
Length: 11 hrs and 53 mins
Genre: Military, Space Opera
I liked the sound of this and am enjoying it.
It is another free title expiring 2/29 and works for "N" title.
2024Alphabet and 2024Audiobook Goals.
Source: February 2024 Audible Plus title.
Publisher's summary
An ancient alien race, a sentient monkey, and epic battles.
Jason Grimshaw has one job.... Get the cadets to Colony 115.
Just another day. Just another milk run. Or so he thought.
When scanners pick up an unidentified alien vessel, it's already too late. With his ship blown out from under him, and his crew scattered across a war-torn planet, his day just keeps getting better.
The good news is, one of the pilots survived. The bad news is, it's the biggest pain in his ass, and she's stranded miles away.
When Clio Evans said she wanted to fly, crash-landing a starship wasn't what she had in mind. She may not be the most experienced Fleet pilot, but she sure as hell has a few tricks up her sleeve, and with an army standing between her and the rest of her crew, she'll have to pull out all the stops, even if it means exposing a secret that'll see her hanged for treason.
You'll love this military sci-fi adventure with a twist, because who doesn't love overbearing commanders, cocky redheads, and aliens with guns?
©2019 Killian Carter (P)2019 Podium Publishing

2. eBook - NetGalley App on Smartphone (NGeB2024)

If the Boot Fits
By Karen Witemeyer
Pub Date 12 Mar 2024 | Archive Date 21 Apr 2024
Bethany House, Bethany House Publishers
Genre: Christian | Historical Fiction | Romance
I am enjoying this so far at 10%
2024NetGalley, 2024Alphabet, and 2024ebook Goals. Source: 1/12/2024 ebook from NetGalley.
Click on link to see full description.

Sort of ON HOLD. Kindle (/NetGalley )App on Smartphone (NGeB2023)

The Altered Moon 2: The Tyrant of Unity
By James McGettigan, Jingjing Huntley (Photographer), Fabiana Granado, Kyle Davis, Jason Frank, Serena Lucatero, Jacqui Corn-Uys (Editor), Anthony McGettigan (Editor), Judy McGettigan (Editor)
Genre: Alien Invasion, Space Sci Fi.
This is still reading slowly. I have reached 60%.
Although I am reading the other NetGalley ebook, I open this each day to read on the Kindle App.
Source: December 27, 2023 NetGalley.
2024TBR, 2024NetGalley, 2024Alphabet, and 2024ebook Goals.
Click on link to see full description.

I will be looking next for titles with the letters U, T, M and O for my next picks. I only have 9 letters left in the alphabet so I am zipping through this challenge.

February 11, 2024 - I am enjoying the YouVersion App called The Bible Recap with Tara Leigh Cobble. (The link is to the plan online.) We are reading in Exodusl We have read about the Ten Commandments, and are into the details of the building of the Tabernacle, the preistly clothes, and the seven holy objects.
I started a 5 day study: Unpackin' It - a reading plan for Sport Fans. It seemed appropriate during SuperBowl weekend.

I finished three books, rated with mini reviews/comments above.

NETGALLEY STATUS--
I continue on two ebook. I still have another ebooks. I still have an older audio on my shelf I need to listen to.
I still have the two old NetGalley ebook titles.

Other Sources: I have a dozen or so books that I received from Facebook links and newsletter sign-ups, not specific review requests. plus many titles through InstaFreebie over the past few years.

Welcome to Mailbox Monday.

No new review titles.
No titles bought this week.

Ten new titles on Audible Plus - only listing two

No new Kindle titles this week.
Are your mailbox and TBR piles blooming?

Review Titles

NONE

Won

NONE

Purchased

NONE

Free

Two of the ten titles I got from Audible Plus this week - one read and one currently reading.

Knighthood
By: Evan Currie
Narrated by: Cassandra Campbell
Series: Atlantis Rising Trilogy, Book 1
Length: 11 hrs and 36 mins
Above in Finished Reading.

The North Star
By: Killian Carter
Narrated by: Sean Runnette
Series: Galactic Sentinel, Book 1
Length: 11 hrs and 53 mins
Above in Current Reading.

I still have 13 Audible Plus titles to list from 2023 and some from 2024.

No new free titles added to Kindle library. Free titles might be found at Bookbub, Book Adrenaline, Ereader News Today, Inspired Reads, or Kindle ebooks.

Sunday Words of Encouragement February 11, 2024 - Rebuke Discouragement.

2024-02-11T19:53:00.000-06:00

This morning our church shared communion. Pastor continued his sermon series in Nehemiah. This week we are in Nehemiah 4 where the Israelites faced opposition and discouragement.
The people were hearing grumblings and they were complaining. Faith comes by hearing! Romans 10:17. What you listen to effects your believe system. Discouragement changes your perspective. Don’t believe the world or the enemy that says that people won’t be saved, that our society is too far gone. Don’t let the propaganda of the enemy discourage you. Focus on God.

Pastor shared experience when he was aged 28-30 when he suffered severe back pain from injury in a car accident (not his fault). Doctor told him his lower discs were gone, he had bone on bone and couldn’t lift more than 20 pounds, couldn’t play golf, or play ball with his young sons. Devil started to threaten him saying, “I will have your ministry. You will be in a wheelchair and unable to minister with energy. You won’t be able to play with your kids.” He began to believe these lies. He asked friends for prayer and they gave him scriptures passages that encouraged Dodie Osteen. He put his focus on God and overcame the discouragement. To this day he has not had surgery, although he does have pain now and then.

I have a similar situation as I was diagnosed with crushed discs in 2000. I prayed to God to take it away or at least control the pain. Except for a few episodes (less than 10 in 23 years), I have had minimal pain! I am careful not to twist and if I get tired, I might feel pain as it attacks my week spot. I’ve learned to stretch carefully but otherwise I give thanks to God for removing that pain.

Without hope, we lose faith. Complaining is a symptom of discouragement. The enemy kept pressing in on the Israelites. Nehemiah 4:11. We are all in spiritual warfare and the enemy will push whenever there is an opening. Don’t let the enemy lie to you. Focus on God and the good deeds he has already done and trust that He will do more as he has promised.

Discouragement breeds fear. Nehemiah 4:12. Faith is necessary to please God and do his mission. Hebrews 11. Nehemiah resisted the discouragement and pressed on to fulfill God’s plan. Nehemiah 4:13-15.

Know where you are weak so you can shore up those spots; set a guard at the low places.
You are not beyond failure. Protect your walk with God. Galatians 6:1. My help comes from God. Psalm 121:1-8. Magnify the Lord with me! Psalm 34:3-5.

Don’t let fear or discouragement control your mind or heart. Remember God! 1 John 4:4; Romans 8:31; 2 Corinthians 4:16-18. We do not have power within ourselves. But through God we have ability to bring the discouraging thoughts into captivity.

Discouragement brings fear, encouragement brings faith. Seek the Lord who gives you rest. Matthew 11-28. Encourage others.

When the enemy sees your faith, their plans are frustrated by God. Nehemiah 4:15. God expects us to overcome obstacles because He is working it our for our favor. Hebrews 12:2. Find your place in the Kingdom. Finish the assignment God has for you.

I found this beautiful song video for today: Fear Is Not My Future by Maverick City Music.

Verses for Today:
Nehemiah 4:10-15 NIV.
10 Meanwhile, the people in Judah said, “The strength of the laborers is giving out, and there is so much rubble that we cannot rebuild the wall.”
11 Also our enemies said, “Before they know it or see us, we will be right there among them and will kill them and put an end to the work.”
12 Then the Jews who lived near them came and told us ten times over, “Wherever you turn, they will attack us.”
13 Therefore I stationed some of the people behind the lowest points of the wall at the exposed places, posting them by families, with their swords, spears and bows. 14 After I looked things over, I stood up and said to the nobles, the officials and the rest of the people, “Don’t be afraid of them. Remember the Lord, who is great and awesome, and fight for your families, your sons and your daughters, your wives and your homes.”
15 When our enemies heard that we were aware of their plot and that God had frustrated it, we all returned to the wall, each to our own work.

Lord. I am so thankful that You are so faithful. I turn away from fear and discouragement and remember You are in control!

Destroying your discouragement.
Nehemiah 4:10-15

Sunday Post February 4, 2024/It's Monday! What are You Reading? Plus Mailbox Monday February 5, 2024

2024-02-04T23:17:00.003-06:00

I am linking with Sunday Post at Caffeinated Book Reviewer.

It's Monday! What Are You Reading? now at The Book Date (at Wordpress)

I had to buy a new well pump which was pretty pricy. Sigh. But it is nice to have full pressure again.

I'll be having my second ultrasound, with biopsy this time, on Tuesday. I am still believing all will be well. Thank you for good wishes and prayers.

Saturday I left the house early to attend a woman's club function in Panama City. These deer at the edge of my yard were surprised to see me so early as I startled them in the cold mist!

Here is our group at the event. I am hidden in the back with the mask on!

I'm still plying catch up on work, slowly moving forward.
I am still enjoying my chair yoga and have lost a few pounds.

I will continue to pray for the Advent messages all year: Hope, Peace, Joy, and Love.

Our weather did a flip this week - in the 70s on Friday and stepped out to 39 Saturday morning. Brrrr. More wind and rain on Sunday with another power outage for three hours.

I finished two audios and made a little more progress in the ebook. No reviews posted this week.

I visited only 11 blogs again last week. No shout Out this week.

Audiobooks.com is still sharing some free listens for children.

Sunday Post January 28 2024/It's Monday! What are You Reading? Plus Mailbox Monday January 29, 2024.

MarthaE Cooking #5.

Finished Reading:
1. Audible on Smartphone (ATBR).

EMP: Equipping Modern Patriots
By: Jonathan Hollerman
Narrated by: Kent Clark
Series: EMP: Equipping Modern Patriots, Book 1 (4 books)
Length: 10 hrs and 14 mins Genre: EMP,
Genre: Post-Apocalyptic.
Rating: 4.0 overall. This is a rather typical post-apocalyptic story of family survival. The characters are well developed and it is entertaining even though it is fairly normal fare.
2024TBR, 2024Alphabet, and 2024Audiobook Goals.
Source: 7/18/2021 Audible Sale $5.00.
Click on link to see full description.

2. Audible on Smartphone (ATBR).

The Valley
A Lee Harden Novel
By: D.J. Molles
Narrated by: Christian Rummel
Length: 14 hrs and 48 mins
Genre: Action, Adventure, Post-Apocalyptic.
Rating 4.25 overall. I do enjoy this series.
This introduces a new Primal hybrid.
Lee Harden and his team face a lot of danger from men as well as the hybrids.
2024TBR, 2024Alphabet, and 2024Audiobook Goals.
Source 6/16/2023 May Audible Credit.
Click on link to see full description

Currently Reading:
1. Audible on Smartphone (ATBR).

Galaxy on Fire: Publisher's Pack
By: Craig Robertson
Narrated by: Scott Aiello
Series: Galaxy on Fire, Book 1-2
Length: 13 hrs and 17 mins
This showed up as expiring 2/29 so I decided to listen to it as my "G" title.
I almost stopped at end of book 1 because this is rather over the top silly. But now I'm half finished book 2 so I will finish it.
2024TBR, 2024Alphabet, and 2024Audiobook Goals.
Source: April 2023 Audible Plus.
Publisher's summary
Galaxy on Fire: Publisher's Pack contains Books 1 and 2 of the Galaxy on Fire series.
Embers, Book 1:
Jon Ryan was supposed to be dead. He wanted to be dead. But Jon wakes up in the far future with an alien burrowing in his chest for salvage. Someone was going to pay for this. Check that. Lots of people were going to pay for this. Jon was the first astronaut to download to an android host to find the population of doomed Earth a new home. But that was so long time ago. He is now literally lost in time.
The far flung future is dominated by an unstoppable species, the Adamant. They have conquered most of the galaxy. No civilization has successfully resisted them. Brutally efficient, selflessly devoted to their empire, and callous to all other forms of life, the Adamant have advanced without boundaries. But they are about to run into a major problem. One very pissed off Jon Ryan stands in their way. He escapes their prison ship, rescues two teenage shapeshifters, and intends to protect them at all costs. Jon, Mirraya, and Slapgren race across the galaxy always just one step ahead of disaster. But the combined evil forces that pursue them tear the trio apart. The teens must fend on their own in a hostile universe. All the while, Jon runs for his life, hoping against all hope to locate the teens. In a galaxy burning with war, genocide, and hidden magic, can Jon Ryan pull of one more miracle?
Flames, Book 2:
For Jon Ryan, it always seems to be the hard way. But he likes it like that. When he finally wins, it's all the more satisfying. A cataclysmic fight with his evil twin leaves Jon marooned on a desolate planet. He has no ship, no radio, and no one knows he's there. Meanwhile the shapeshifter teens are spirited to the court of the Adamant emperor himself. Malraff, his torture master, takes control of the teens and is bent on finding the secret of their ability to transform. She will do anything to find out the truth, and she will revels in their suffering.
Somehow Jon must find his way out of his imprisonment and rescue the teens. But will there be anything left for him to save even if he can escape? A galaxy on fire with the destructive conquests of the Adamant empire still stands between Jon and any for chance of success. Without allies, recourses, or any reason for hope, his only path is to release the darkness that he is capable of. But can Jon triumph and still be worthy of that victory?
©2017 Craig Robertson (P)2019 Podium Publishing

2. Audible on Smartphone (ATBR).

Howl's Moving Castle
By Diana Wynne Jones
Duration: 8 h 37 min
Genre: Fantasy, Folklore, Young Adult
I figured it was time to listen to this classic.
It is my “H” title.
2024TBR, 2024Alphabet, and 2024Audiobook Goals.
7/22/2019 Audiobooks.com 2 for 1 Credit.
SUMMARY
A Boston Globe-Horn Book Honor Book and ALA Notable and Best of the Year in Young Adult Fiction, Howl's Moving Castle by acclaimed fantasy writer Diana Wynne Jones was transformed into an Academy Award-nominated animated motion picture by Hayao Miyazaki. On a rare venture out from her step-mother's hat shop, Sophie attracts the attention of a witch, who casts a terrible spell transforming the young girl into an old crone. 'A wonderful blend of humor, magic, and romance.'-Publishers Weekly

3. Kindle (/NetGalley) App on Smartphone (NGeB2024)

If the Boot Fits
By Karen Witemeyer
Pub Date 12 Mar 2024 | Archive Date 21 Apr 2024
Bethany House, Bethany House Publishers
Genre: Christian | Historical Fiction | Romance.
I like this author and hope this reads easier than the sci fi.
2024NetGalley, 2024Alphabet, and 2024ebook Goals. Source: 1/12/2024 ebook from NetGalley.
SUMMARY
A Boston Globe-Horn Book Honor Book and ALA Notable and Best of the Year in Young Adult Fiction, Howl's Moving Castle by acclaimed fantasy writer Diana Wynne Jones was transformed into an Academy Award-nominated animated motion picture by Hayao Miyazaki. On a rare venture out from her step-mother's hat shop, Sophie attracts the attention of a witch, who casts a terrible spell transforming the young girl into an old crone. 'A wonderful blend of humor, magic, and romance.'-Publishers Weekly.

ON HOLD. Kindle (/NetGalley )App on Smartphone (NGeB2023)

The Altered Moon 2: The Tyrant of Unity
By James McGettigan, Jingjing Huntley (Photographer), Fabiana Granado, Kyle Davis, Jason Frank, Serena Lucatero, Jacqui Corn-Uys (Editor), Anthony McGettigan (Editor), Judy McGettigan (Editor)
This is still reading slowly. I have reached 53%.
I'm going to put this on hold to read another NetGalley ebook.
Source: December 27, 2023 NetGalley.
Archive date 1/11/24 I have it downloaded so I am able to continue to read it.
2024TBR, 2024NetGalley, 2024Alphabet, and 2024ebook Goals.
Click on link to see full description.

I will be looking at the letters U, T, K, and M for my next picks.

February 4, 2024 - I am enjoying the YouVersion App called The Bible Recap with Tara Leigh Cobble. (The link is to the plan online.) We finished Genesis and are in Exodus.
I completed the study: 21 day Fast, Read, Pray, Acts Challenge.

I finished two books, rated with mini reviews/comments above.

NETGALLEY STATUS--
I continue on an ebook. I now have two more ebooks. I still have an older audio on my shelf I need to listen to.
I still have the two old NetGalley ebook titles.

Other Sources: I have a dozen or so books that I received from Facebook links and newsletter sign-ups, not specific review requests. plus many titles through InstaFreebie over the past few years.

Welcome to Mailbox Monday.

No new review titles.
No titles bought this week and no new Audible Plus either but I am listing some still from 2023.

No new Kindle title this week.
Are your mailbox and TBR piles blooming?

Review Titles

NONE

Won

NONE

Purchased

NONE

Free

These 12 titles were Audible Plus free titles downloaded December 1, 2023.

The Dark Side of the Road: Ishmael Jones Mystery Series, Book 1
By: Simon R. Green
Narrated by: Gildart Jackson
Series: Ishmael Jones Mystery Series , Book 1
Length: 8 hrs and 38 mins

The Outcasts of Time
By: Ian Mortimer
Narrated by: James Cameron Stewart
Length: 12 hrs and 35 mins

Too Like the Lightning: Terra Ignota, Book 1
By: Ada Palmer
Narrated by: Jefferson Mays
Series: Terra Ignota , Book 1
Length: 20 hrs and 19 mins

Zone War (Read in January)
By: John Conroe
Narrated by: James Patrick Cronin
Series: Zone War Series, Book 1
Length: 8 hrs and 54 mins

A Proposal for Christmas
By: Linda Lael Miller, Lindsay McKenna
Narrated by: Jack Garrett, Gabra Zackman
Length: 11 hrs and 5 mins

One More Last Time: A LitRPG/GameLit Novel
By: Eric Ugland
Narrated by: Neil Hellegers
Series: The Good Guys Series , Book 1
Length: 7 hrs and 43 mins

A Promise of Fire
By: Amanda Bouchet
Narrated by: Mia Barron
Series: The Kingmaker Chronicles , Book 1
Length: 14 hrs and 45 mins

Blind Spot
By: Dani Pettrey
Narrated by: Therese Plummer
Series: Chesapeake Valor , Book 3
Length: 7 hrs and 54 mins

Christmas in Winter Valley
By: Jodi Thomas
Narrated by: Julia Gibson
Series: Ransom Canyon , Book 9
Length: 8 hrs and 33 mins

An Outlaw's Christmas
By: Linda Lael Miller
Narrated by: Jack Garrett
Series: The McKettricks , Book 15
Length: 6 hrs and 20 mins

The Christmas Eve Letter
By: Elyse Douglas
Narrated by: Madeleine Dauer
Series: The Christmas Eve Letter , Book 1
Length: 11 hrs and 38 mins

A Cotswold Christmas: The Willoughby Close Series, Book 1
By: Kate Hewitt
Narrated by: Justine Eyre
Series: The Willoughby Close Series , Book 1
Length: 3 hrs and 43 mins

I still have 13 Audible Plus titles to list from 2023 and some from 2024.

No new free titles added to Kindle library. Free titles might be found at Bookbub, Book Adrenaline, Ereader News Today, Inspired Reads, or Kindle ebooks.

MarthaE Cooking #5

2024-02-03T22:06:00.001-06:00

Here are more of my HelloFresh dishes for weeks three and four of January. It does take me 30 to 45 minutes to cook but I get to listen to audio books while cooking so that is just fine.

Banh Mi-Style Meatball Bowl with Pickle Cuke Salad and Ginger Rice.
My fridge sort of froze the cucumber and my bowl doesn't show the rice. Still, it was a delicious dish.

One-Pan Cheesy Beef Tortilla Melts with Green Pepper & Spicy Cream Sauce.

This was pretty easy to make and something I really like.

Spicy Maple Chicken with Mashed Sweet Potatoes and Roasted Green Beans.
This was enough food to provide three meals instead of just two.

Vegan Thai Coconut Ginger Curry
with Bell Pepper, Green Beans, Peanuts & Lime Rice.
The nice thing about the portions of ingredients is I can use all or less of a seasoning, like the curry, to match my own tastes. This lets me experiment a little to discovery how I like the flavors.
I'd be glad to eat this one again too.

The plan comes with a free breakfast choice. I like these Belgian waffles - I get four for the week.

I added a small serving of scrambled egg with potatoes left over from a prior meal.

Sunday Post January 28, 2024/It's Monday! What are You Reading? Plus Mailbox Monday January 29, 2024

2024-01-28T22:49:00.392-06:00

I am linking with Sunday Post at Caffeinated Book Reviewer.

It's Monday! What Are You Reading? now at The Book Date (at Wordpress)

I am feeling much better although I seem to be taking a nap after dinner in the evenings.
I am without water again as my well pump suffered when we had a power outage Saturday. The well man said it will be a day or two to fix it.

I have to have another ultrasound and biopsy for the doctors to decide how to treat my situation. I am confident the tests will show negative and all will be well. I expect to schedule the testing in the next week or so.

I took two pictures after the storm on the 9th and Google Photos made a panorama that shows the downed trees on both sides of my driveway.

I continue to play catch up on work and it feels good to accomplish each task.

I am still enjoying my chair yoga and have lost a few pounds.
I will continue to pray for the Advent messages all year: Hope, Peace, Joy, and Love.

Our weather did warm up into the 70s for a couple of days. Today it is back to the 50s and I need to turn the heat back on.

I finished four audios and made progress in the ebook. I posted one NetGalley review.

I visited only 11 blogs again last week. No shout Out this week.

Audiobooks.com is still sharing some free listens for children.

Sunday Post January 21 2024/It's Monday! What are You Reading? Plus Mailbox Monday January 22, 2024.

NGTBR - #Netgalley Audio Book Review: The Fish of Small Wishes by Elana K. Arnold.

MarthaE Cooking #4.

Sunday Words of Encouragement January 28, 2024 - What is Your Condition?

Finished Reading:
1. Audible on Smartphone (ATBR).

Zone War
By: John Conroe
Narrated by: James Patrick Cronin
Series: Zone War Series, Book 1
Length: 8 hrs and 54 mins
My Rating 4.25. This tells the story of a Post-Apocalyptic reality show with a young hero helping the military, and vice a versa.
I like the protagonist and will probably pick up the next in the series.
Source: December 2023 Audible Plus Catalog.
2024TBR, 2024Alphabet, and 2024Audiobook Goals.
Click on link to see full description.

2. Audible on Smartphone (ATBR).

Winter World
By: A. G. Riddle
Narrated by: Edoardo Ballerini, Amanda Leigh Cobb
Series: The Long Winter, Book 1
Length: 11 hrs and 4 mins
My Rating 4.25. The earth is facing global freezing and it turns out there is an external cause. The story is told from the view of two characters, a disgraced roboticist scientist, and an astronaut who may be trapped in space.
I liked the characters, the science, and the story. I am glad I have the next book, Solar World.
Source: October 2023 Audible Plus
2024TBR, 2024Alphabet, 2024Audiobook, and 2024Season Goals.
Click on link to see full description.

3. Audible on Smartphone (ATBR).

Always Faithful
By: Sherry A. Burton
Narrated by: Bethanne Reid
Series: Jerry McNeal, Book 1
Length: 2 hrs and 43 mins
Genre: Supernatural, Ghosts
My Rating 4.5. Jerry McNeal has a "gift" that tells him when there is danger or death. Sometimes he gets there in time and sometimes he doesn't. But he has learned to listen to his feelings. In this introductory story, we meet Jerry, and he gets a bit of ghostly K-9 help. I liked the characters, the story and the narration. I wish the short stories in this series weren't priced higher than I'd like to pay for under $4.00.
2024TBR, 2024Alphabet, and 2024Audiobook Goals.
Source: 12/2/2023 Audible $3.47.
Publisher's summary
Call it a premonition. Call it intuition. Call it anything you like, but Pennsylvania State Trooper Jerry McNeal simply thinks of it as “that feeling.”
That feeling may come on without warning, so intense he can’t breathe.
Or, it may be a gentle nag that pulls at him until he decides to do something about it. He never quite knows what “it” is until he gets there, but when he arrives, he always knows he’s found what he is looking for.
During one of the biggest snowstorms of the year, Trooper McNeal feels that familiar stir. An unease that grows with each flake that falls. Its intensity pulls at him until Jerry has no choice but to venture out onto the treacherous roads, following an invisible pull that grips at his very soul.
Tonight, that feeling is going to take Trooper McNeal into a blizzard when the streets are supposed to be empty to save a life that would have otherwise been lost.
Only tonight, Trooper McNeal is not going alone….
©2019 Sherry A. Jones (P)2022 Sherry A. Jones

4. Audio on Smartphone (ATBR).

Cut
Written by Annelie Wendeberg
Narrated by Emma Galvin
Run Time 6h 4min
Genre: Post-Apocalyptic, Dystopian.
My Rating 3.75. I had a lot of trouble with the protagonist in this dystopia. She is a troubled young girl who chose to abuse herself after suffering abuse. She is a 'late bloomer' who struggles against the 'status quo'. Her ability to push through her abuse, humiliations, and depression is, to her surprise, what results in her being chosen for a verly select position in society. Her mentor, Runner, is a man of secrets. The dystopian world is harsh and was interesting but I'm not really sure the story fits the reference to The Hunger Games. The narration was well done for the story. It is doubtful I will continue with the series but others might like this.
2024TBR, 2024Alphabet, and 2024Audiobook Goals.
Source: July 2021 Chirp Purchase ~~$16.95~~ $2.99
PUBLISHER DESCRIPTION
I’ve reached my expiration date. Not that it matters. We’re all going to die. To sixteen-year-old Micka, all words have flavours. Her emotions come with such force that she can’t help but carve them into her skin. The night she decides to kill herself, she meets Runner, a mysterious stranger who makes her question everything she’s learned about the end of the world. His message is terrifying: it wasn’t some mysterious disease that killed ten billion people. We did this. Humanity sleepwalked into climate disaster and ecocide, just to butcher and rape until blood stained the seas. Micka is sure Runner is lying. Her instincts urge her to stay far away from him. But he makes her an offer she finds hard to resist. There are only two rules she must follow: Kill. Survive. Because the final wars were never meant to end.

Currently Reading:
1. Kindle (/NetGalley )App on Smartphone (NGeB2023)

The Altered Moon 2: The Tyrant of Unity
By James McGettigan, Jingjing Huntley (Photographer), Fabiana Granado, Kyle Davis, Jason Frank, Serena Lucatero, Jacqui Corn-Uys (Editor), Anthony McGettigan (Editor), Judy McGettigan (Editor)
This is still reading slowly. I have reached 45%.
I'm going to give it one more week. Then I may put this on hold to read one of my other NetGalley ebooks.
Source: December 27, 2023 NetGalley.
Archive date 1/11/24 I have it downloaded so I am able to continue to read it.
2024TBR, 2024NetGalley, 2024Alphabet, and 2024ebook Goals.
Click on link to see full description.

2. Audible on Smartphone (ATBR).

EMP: Equipping Modern Patriots
By: Jonathan Hollerman
Narrated by: Kent Clark
Series: EMP: Equipping Modern Patriots, Book 1 (4 books)
Length: 10 hrs and 14 mins Genre: EMP,
Genre: Post-Apocalyptic
This is a rather typical post-apocalyptic story of family survival. It is entertaining and I have less than 3 hours left.
2024TBR, 2024Alphabet, and 2024Audiobook Goals.
Source: 7/18/2021 Audible Sale $5.00.
Publisher's summary
EMP: Equipping Modern Patriots is a harrowing story of survival after the destruction of the electric grid and nearly every electronic device in the country. Jonathan Hollerman paints a vivid and disturbing picture of society falling apart after an Electromagnetic Pulse attack against our nation.
Can you imagine a world with no phones, no TV, no internet, and no way to access your bank account? Without the electric grid, there would be no lights, no heating or air conditioning in your home, no public water, and the sewer could back up into your home. Without modern vehicles or interstate trucking, the supermarkets would quickly run out of food. Since the majority of the military is not hardened against an EMP, they would be unable to come to the aid of its citizens and maintain order. Our humanity is questioned when survival of the fittest becomes reality.
This is not only a thrilling story but offers practical, life-saving advice for an imminent threat. If you enjoyed Patriots by James Wesley Rawles or One Second After by William Forstchen, then you will enjoy this story of survival.
©2013 Jonathan Hollerman (P)2014 Jonathan Hollerman

3. Audible on Smartphone (ATBR).

The Valley
A Lee Harden Novel
By: D.J. Molles
Narrated by: Christian Rummel
Length: 14 hrs and 48 mins
Genre: Action, Adventure, Post-Apocalyptic
I loved the series and the character, Lee Harden, so I want to continue in this new stage of his life.
2024TBR, 2024Alphabet, and 2024Audiobook Goals.
Source 6/16/2023 May Audible Credit.
Publisher's summary
It has been six years since plague, famine, and war ravaged the planet. World powers have collapsed. The human population has been reduced by 90 percent, and those who survived must always contend with a novel apex predator: human beings whose very DNA has been radically altered by the plague.
In a quiet valley in Northern California, a settlement of survivors called the Redoubt is threatened by Colin Horner, a savagely pragmatic ranch boss, whose land they’ve been squatting on for years. With barely any ability to defend themselves, all they can do is try to forestall Horner’s demands for a quantity of food they’re incapable of growing. But as the clock runs out for the Redoubt, a small group of heavily armed individuals shows up out of the blue, led by a man with a scarred face and a missing eye.
Lee Harden might be scarred and battered, but he is a professional warfighter, with years of near-constant combat experience and one mission: find settlements beyond the current reach of the Interim Government, give them hope, and keep them alive. Backed by his longtime team of operators, Lee aims to resolve the conflict between the Redoubt and Horner. But something strange is going on in this seemingly quiet valley. Someone is breeding hybrids—part human and part mutated apex predator—and using them as a weapon.
When peace talks between the Redoubt and Horner go bad, Lee finds himself stuck in the middle of a seething conflict that’s about more than just land. As the valley unravels into chaos, Lee and his team gamble with their lives to unravel a convoluted network of lies, secret obsessions, and ties that bind, in order to learn just who it is they’re protecting, and what exactly they’re protecting them from.
In his first-ever stand-alone Lee Harden novel, DJ Molles immerses you in a world of gritty realism and slippery morality, filled with characters that just want to do the right thing—if they can figure out what that is.
©2023 D.J. Molles (P)2023 Audible, Inc.

I expect to get to one or two more audios this coming week.
I am looking at the letters G, H and U for my next picks.

January 28, 2024 - I am enjoying the YouVersion App called The Bible Recap with Tara Leigh Cobble. (The link is to the plan online.) We are still reading in Genesis.
I am also enjoying a 21 day Fast, Read, Pray, Acts Challenge.

I finished four books, rated with mini reviews/comments above.

NETGALLEY STATUS--
I continue on an ebook. I now have two more ebooks. I still have an older audio on my shelf I need to listen to.
I still have the two old NetGalley ebook titles.

Other Sources: I have a dozen or so books that I received from Facebook links and newsletter sign-ups, not specific review requests. plus many titles through InstaFreebie over the past few years.

Welcome to Mailbox Monday.

No new review titles.
I bought four audios on Chirp.
I still have Audible Plus titles to be listed when I get time.

Two new Kindle title this week.
Are your mailbox and TBR piles blooming?

Review Titles

NONE

Won

NONE

Purchased

January 24th, 2024 Four titles at Chirp

The After Cilmeri Series Boxed Set
Written by Sarah Woodbury
Narrated by Laurel Schroeder
~~$19.99~~ $0.99

White Haven Hunters: Books 1 - 3
Written by TJ Green
Narrated by Diana Croft
~~$14.99~~ $1.99

Poison and Party Hats
Written by Madelyn Scott
Narrated by Caroline Turner Cole
~~$9.99~~ $0.99

Fortress of the Lost Amulet
Written by Michael Webb
Narrated by Tim Campbell
~~$9.99~~ $0.99

Free

January 25, 2024 Two Free Kindles – directed by a Newsletter.

Skating the Blue Line: A Hockey Romance (Chicago Dark Knights Series Book 1)
By Jocelyne Soto

Betting on Cinderella (The Cinderella Romances Book 2)
By Petie McCarty

I still have audible plus titles to list.

Two new free title added to Kindle library. Free titles might be found at Bookbub, Book Adrenaline, Ereader News Today, Inspired Reads, or Kindle ebooks.