Audible Review: Just One Da**ed Thing After Another: The Chronicles of St Mary's, Book 1 by Jodi Taylor

This is a zany fun story and a good audio listen.
Just One Da**ed Thing After Another: The Chronicles of St Mary's, Book 1
Written by: Jodi Taylor
Narrated by: Zara Ramm

Length: 9 hrs and 30 mins

Series: The Chronicles of St Mary's, Book 1

Unabridged Audiobook

Release Date:04-01-14

Publisher: Audible Studios

Genre: Adventure, Fantasy, Time Travel

My Rating: 4.25 of 5.0

Publisher's Summary
"History is just one damned thing after another."
Behind the seemingly innocuous façade of St Mary's, a different kind of historical research is taking place. They don't do 'time-travel' - they 'investigate major historical events in contemporary time'. Maintaining the appearance of harmless eccentrics is not always within their power - especially given their propensity for causing loud explosions when things get too quiet.
Meet the disaster-magnets of St Mary's Institute of Historical Research as they ricochet around History. Their aim is to observe and document - to try and find the answers to many of History's unanswered questions...and not to die in the process. But one wrong move and History will fight back - to the death. And, as they soon discover - it's not just History they're fighting.
Follow the catastrophe curve from 11th-century London to World War I, and from the Cretaceous Period to the destruction of the Great Library at Alexandria. For wherever Historians go, chaos is sure to follow in their wake....
©2013 Jodi Taylor (P)2014 Audible Studios

Review:
St. Mary’s is an institute for historical research, pursuing their goal in an unusual fashion. They investigate historical events by observing and documenting through ‘contemporary’ time travel. They must be scrupulously careful not to interfere and not to leave anything behind or try to bring anything back. Really, that doesn’t even sound easy --- and it isn’t for this mad cap group of historians and scientists.

The St. Mary’s team consists of several divisions working closely together (it is hoped) to manage safe expeditions. There are the security team, the IT team, technical, medical, R&D, costuming, and of course administration and house staff. But the lynch pins are the historians who travel in the pods to far away, long gone destinations and face the inherent dangers in places like the Cretaceous Period or the destruction of the Great Library at Alexandria.

Madeleine Maxwell, better known as Max, is a young woman who earned her doctorate at St. Mary’s ‘sister’ school, Thirsk. A wonderful teacher, Ms. DeWinter, who changed Max’ school life years before, changes it again when she recruits Max to interview for a historian position at St. Mary’s. The candidates go through rigorous training to prove themselves. They work in teams, but some are more compatible than others. Max would just as soon work alone but instead she is paired with an arrogant fellow no one else wants to work with.

Max is a great heroine in this story. She is hard working as well as naturally bright and determined. Many find her impressive and likable, but others are jealous and contemptuous, especially since trouble and death seem to follow her even in (mostly) successful adventures. Max finds a romance interest for the first time in her life but may lose that due to separation and secrets.

This book contains great characters, wonderful action with danger, and creative interaction in historical settings. There is a bit of language, although it is limited. The overall impact of the story is fun entertainment. I recommend this to readers looking for a fun read/listen and especially those who like history provided with a flair.

Audio Notes: Zara Ramm does a fine job of narrating this. She captures the voices and nuances of personalities of the characters. The pacing is good and the narration added to my enjoyment. I will be getting more of this series in Audible to entertain me.

This is from my Audible Library, purchased in November 2014, so it is from my TBR shelves and adds to my Audio Challenge.

Audible Review: Monster Hunter Alpha by Larry Correia

This is a wonderfully fun and entertaining series.
Monster Hunter Alpha
Written by: Larry Correia
Narrated by: Oliver Wyman

Length: 18 hrs and 52 mins

Series: Monster Hunter, Book 3

Unabridged Audiobook

Release Date:07-26-11

Publisher: Audible Studios

Genre: Fantasy, Paranormal
My Rating: 4.75 of 5.0

Publisher's Summary
Dirty Harry meets Twilight. Number 3 in the break-out series and a follow-up to Monster Hunter International and Monster Hunter Vendetta.
Earl Harbinger may be the leader of Monster Hunter International, but he's also got a secret. Nearly a century ago, Earl was cursed to be a werewolf. When Earl receives word that one of his oldest foes, a legendarily vicious werewolf that worked for the KGB, has mysteriously appeared in the remote woods of Michigan, he decides to take care of some unfinished business. But another force is working to bring about the creation of a whole new species of werewolf. When darkness falls, the final hunt begins, and the only thing standing in their way is a handful of locals, a lot of firepower, and Earl Harbinger's stubborn refusal to roll over and play dead.
Track down another Monster Hunter title.
©2011 Larry Correia (P)2011 Audible, Inc.

Review:
Earl Harbinger has been the director of Monster Hunter International (MHI) for many (many) years. Some, but not all, of the employees know that he is a werewolf who has been around for a century. Even fewer of the employees know his former identity and his histroy.

Earl has headed to a remote community in the cold, remote woods of Michigan due to an anonymous tip that an old foe, Nikolai, another legendary werewolf who was his KGB enemy during WWII, is going to be in town. This is a personal issue so Earl hasn’t advised any one at MHI. He arrives in town during a bad snow storm only to discover that Nikolai is there but there are other werewolves and something else dangerous is going on.

Earl meets a local, young, tough officer who is prepared to protect her town. Heather is stressed because her boss, the Sheriff, has ended up in the hospital after dealing with an animal attack at a resident’s farm. Heather isn’t used to strangers in town and she has already been visited by another man - a European stranger who asked questions about her grandfather. Soon she finds herself pulled into a very bazaar … and bloody… situation and the only man who seems to know what is going on is this Harbinger fellow.

Earl thinks he is there to face off with Nikolai, and vice versa. But there is a third man playing the two enemies as he seeks to take his position as the Alpha werewolf. He has brought Earl and Nikolai together so he can take the soul, of the strongest warrior. Earl doesn’t mind facing monsters but it really angers him to have to face dark magic too.

This is the third book in this fast paced, fun series. The story focuses on the leader of MHI, Earl Harbinger, showing his history through brief entries from his journal at the beginning of each chapter. The chapters then proceed with current events and all the action and danger, plus an added bonus of a developing romance! We learn of Earl's past and also learn more about the state agency, Monster Control Bureau. I may have missed the MHI team but I was completely engaged and loved learning the history of Earl as well as meeting new characters.

Correia did a wonderful job of creating an action story around the primary characters. I enjoyed the plot, character development and action supplied by this author – with a touch of humor too! I will definitely be continuing with the series.

Audio Notes: Oliver Wyman does a great job narrating this series. I had to double check that there was only one narrator because he did such a good job with the voices, including the Russian and the females. The narration carries the excitement of the story and adds to my enjoyment of the series.

This is from my Audible library as a selection in August 2014 so it counts for my TBR shelf. It also qualifies as part of my Audio Challenge.

Audio Book Tour Review with Giveaway: Murder on Safari: A Thriller by Peter Riva

This is a well plotted, engaging mystery thriller with a fascinating setting. 
Murder on Safari: A Thriller
Written by: Peter Riva
Narrated by: R. D. Watson

Length: 11 hrs and 58 mins

Unabridged Audiobook

Release Date:05-19-15

Publisher: Audible Studios

Genre: Mystery Thriller

My Rating: 4.5 of 5.0

Publisher's Summary
Only a reality TV producer and an expert safari guide can stop a terrorist attack.
Every adventure starts at the fringes of civilization. For expert safari guide Mbuno and wildlife television producer Pero Baltazar, filming in the wild of East Africa should have been a return to the adventure they always loved. This time they'd be filming soaring vultures in Northern Kenya and giant sea crocodiles in Tanzania with Mary, the daughter of the world's top television evangelist, the very reverend Jimmy Threte. But when a terrorist cell places them in the crosshairs, there is suddenly no escape, and they must put their filming aside and combine all their talents to thwart an all-out al-Shabaab terrorist attack on Jimmy Threte's Christian gathering of hundreds of thousands in Nairobi, Kenya. The problem is Pero has a secret - he's been working as a clandestine courier for the US State Department for years. If anyone finds out, it may get them all killed.
Exciting and expertly plotted, Murder on Safari is a gripping, edge-of-your-seat thriller set in the great wide-open plains of East Africa.
©2015 Peter Riva (P)2015 Audible, Inc.

Review:
Pero Baltazar is a wildlife producer accustomed to working with a close knit TV crew. Mbuno is a long time friend and an expert Safari guide. This trip the crew starts by filming the star, Simon, hang-gliding under the curious gaze of soaring vultures. The filming is good until Simon suffers an ‘accident’. Pero and Mbuno realize that the scene shows more than expected. The two crew land rovers end up fleeing an armed caravan that Pero believes is terrorist related. Pero, who has, for years, quietly and secretly worked with an old college friend at the US State Department, calls in his suspicions.

Pero is determined to find Simon's killer but he keeps the show moving along. The crew picks up Mary, the daughter of a top, highly respected and loved, televangelist, Jimmy Threte. Mary specializes in crocodiles and the team has a program to film her with giant sea crocs in Tanzania. As they move along in their program they dodge a bombing and other threats causing Pero to think fast and keep changing travel plans. Bit by bit clues are revealed that indicate a major terrorist attack is in the works and that Pero's crew has been targeted for getting in the way. Pero is promoted to the position of a field agent out of necessity – there being no other asset near enough to help control the investigation. Pero is distressed at bringing danger to his friends who have a surprising reaction to discovering his secret connections.

Parts of the setting in the story are amazingly beautiful and exotic. Other scenes portray the harsh reality of poverty, divided classes and distinct cultural differences. It took me a little bit to get into the story and the narrator, but after the first hour or so, the mystery and danger really pulled me in. The story is told from Pero's view and he shares background of the country and his friends that adds depth to the story. The second half of the book is amazing as Pero and his friends share clues and work out the details of a multi-tiered attack with a few surprising conspirators. Pero and another friend are the only ones on hand to face down the main threat in an exciting and dangerous aerial fight! Pero and Mbuno are especially wonderful characters, supported by a handful of interesting side characters.

This is a really well plotted thriller and the wildlife details are a wonderful background. I would like to read more suspense by Mr. Riva and wouldn't mind revisiting some of these characters. I highly recommend this book to readers who love a mystery with strong characters and lots of danger and clues to work through.

Audio Notes: I have to admit it took me just under an hour to get accustomed to the narration by R. D. Watson. Once I became more engaged in the story I appreciated the narration. Watson does a good job with most of the accents although the females and American accents are a bit exaggerated. Still, the narration brought the main characters alive, adding to the intensity and intrigue as well as the emotional elements of the story. I recommend the audio to those who like to listen instead of reading – just make sure you push through the first hour or so and then buckle up and enjoy the ride.

I received this for review through I Read Book Tours. It adds to my Audio Challenge.

Buy the book:     Amazon    Barnes & Noble     Chapters/Indigo

Author's Bio:

Peter Riva spent many months over thirty years in Africa, many of them with the legendary guides

for East African white hunters and adventurers. He created a TV series (seventy-eight 1-hour episodes) in 1995 called WildThings for Paramount TV. Passing on the fables, true tales and insider knowledge of these last reserves of true wildlife is a passion.

Connect with the author:
    Website  ~   Twitter  ~   Facebook

The tour schedule can be found at the author's iRead home page.

GIVEAWAY

Win 1 of 10 copies of Murder on Safari (print or audiobook)

& 1 of 2 $25 Amazon gift cards (international)

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Audible Review: The New World: Prequel to the Chaos Walking Trilogy by Patrick Ness

This is a quick listen that introduces the series of a 'new world'.

The New World: Prequel to the Chaos Walking Trilogy
Written by: Patrick Ness
Narrated by: Angela Dawe

Length: 47 mins
Series: Chaos Walking, Book 0
Unabridged Audiobook
Release Date:09-13-11
Publisher: Candlewick on Brilliance Audio
Genre: Sci Fi, Fantasy
My Rating: 4.0 of 5.0

Publisher's Summary
The New World is a prequel to the award-winning Chaos Walking trilogy, setting the stage for the world we discover in The Knife of Never Letting Go, The Ask and the Answer, and Monsters of Men. The story was written while the author served as writer in residence for the Booktrust an independent UK-wide charity dedicated to encouraging people of all ages and cultures to enjoy books.
The New World tells of Viola's journey to the New World, brilliantly capturing the hope and fear of settlers in search of a new life. Patrick Ness says that he wrote it "as a huge and deeply-felt thank you to readers. I've had so many questions about Viola and what her life was like before that I couldn't resist the opportunity to reveal just a little bit extra. I knew these things - they're vitally important to her as a character, even if they're not directly in the novels - so it felt like a secret trip I could take readers on. The challenge was to make it work on its own, too, so anyone could read it. That was really, really good fun, and I hope the final result is an exciting one."
The New World can be listened to before or after the trilogy – and some may choose to do both. The story works as a standalone piece, but listeners already familiar with The Knife of Never Letting Go will learn more about Viola’s life and the events leading to her arrival and first encounter with Todd, while newcomers to the trilogy will discover a white-knuckle ride of an introduction to the series. Whether you're a new or faithful listener, though, it's a welcome chance to immerse yourself in the world of Chaos Walking.
Listen to more Chaos Walking.
©2011 Patrick Ness (P)2011 Brilliance Audio, Inc.

Review:
Viola is a twelve year old child of space, traveling with her parents and their community to become settlers in a New World. No one remembers what it is like to live on land. Viola and her parents each have excellent skills and knowledge to make them a good choice as the scout ship that is sent to be the first to land on the planet. Viola is not really happy about her family being the first to go since other children in her class make fun of her and taunt that she will have no one to celebrate her 13th birthday.

Viola’s parents are very excited about their opportunity to select the landing site and establish the base for their people. Unfortunately Viola has a pretty bratty attitude about going even though her parents try to instill their hope in her. Viola has to deal with a lot of young emotions especially when the ship experiences trouble coming through the atmosphere.

Viola’s parents were so positive which was the exact opposite of their daughter. I found it difficult to relate to Viola’s bratty, sulky and depressed personality. The story is presented in first person from Viola's view which focused on her young, rebellious attitude. I did enjoy the set up of the world and the suspense which created interest in the series -- as long as Viola grows up a bit.

Audio Notes: I listened to this as a free Audible book. Angela Dawe does a reasonable job with the characters and maybe did too good of a job portraying the sulky attitude of Viola. This was a quick listen and it may be that reading it would not have created such a reluctance towards the primary character.

This title was from my TBR Pile Challenge as free kindle book from 2010 and a free Audible title. It also qualifies for my Audible Challenge.

Audio Book Review: Clear by Fire: A Search and Destroy Thriller by Joshua Hood

This is a solid, engaging military thriller.
Clear by Fire: A Search and Destroy Thriller
Written by: Joshua Hood
Narrated by: John Pruden

Length: 9 hrs and 30 mins
Unabridged Audiobook
Release Date:08-18-15
Publisher: Blackstone Audio
Genre: Military Thriller
My Rating: 4.0 of 5.0

Publisher's Summary
Inspired by the experiences of a decorated combat veteran and former member of the 82nd Airborne Division, Clear by Fire is a blistering new military thriller about an American hero who, in order to clear his name, must take down a highly classified band of soldiers that has gone murderously rogue.
Mason Kane was a loyal American soldier and a proud member of the elite, off-the-books Anvil Program - a group of black ops soldiers who wage war from the shadows. But all that changed when his commander, as a part of a twisted scheme to force America's continued involvement in the Middle East, ordered an innocent Afghan family murdered.
Refusing the order, Mason finds himself on the run, hunted by his former comrades and labeled a terrorist by the country he served faithfully. Relying only on his survival skills and the help of female Special Operations operative Renee Hart, Kane must embark on his gravest mission yet: unraveling the conspiracy that reaches all way to the president's inner circle and stopping the world's most dangerous soldiers from completing their treacherous plan.
Set in the shadows of the war on terror, this realistic, action-packed adventure puts a twist on the traditional military thriller and starts a brand-new series that fans of Brad Thor and Brad Taylor will love.
©2015 Joshua Hood (P)2015 Blackstone Audio, Inc.

Review:
Mason Kane served as a dedicated specialist soldier with a black ops group known as the Anvil Program. When his commander, Barnes, decides to pursue his own agenda, which is to escalate the American presence in the Middle East, and murders an innocent family, Mason objects. He soon finds himself under attack as his team members try to eliminate him from telling the truth. Now he is on the run dodging authorities and trying to clear his name before he has to live banished as a terrorist. Mason seeks help from friends in the Middle East whom some would label as enemies.

Meanwhile back in the states, Special Operations operative Renee Hart is discovering the edge of a conspiracy that will send her back to the Middle East. She is one kick-butt soldier and her team is glad to have her back. She ends up trying to interrogate Mason to find out what he knows. Slowly the facts and pieces are revealed and another government agency steps in to engage their services. Manson and Renee have to deal with loss and injury as they try to head off Barnes and his troop who are on a killing path.

Hood presents a detailed view of war, including direct battles and behind the action military mind issues. There is plenty of action but Hood develops the characters as well. I enjoyed the primary characters, Mason and Renee. They are awesome soldiers and I appreciated their determination to do right even as they have to fight battles in a vicious, twisted war. I am impressed with this debut novel and trust he will provide more action entertainment in the future.  I recommend this to readers who enjoy solid military thrillers.


Audio Notes: I enjoyed the narration by John Pruden. He kept the pace of the action and used different voices to fit the characters. The quality was good and made for fast listening.

I received this audio from the publisher through Audiobook Jukebox. This is part of my Audiobook Challenge.

2015 Audiobook Challenge -- Third Quarter Update

2015 Audiobook Challenge

hosted by Hot Listens and The Book Nympho

Sign up and rules are found HERE.

The goal is to find a new love for audios or to outdo yourself by listening to more audios in 2015 than you did in 2014. I listened to 63 audios in 2014 so my goal will be:

• Marathoner (Look Ma No Hands) 50+

****MBS 2015 AUDIOBOOK CHALLENGE UPDATE Through September 30, 2015. I met the Marathoner level but had not yet passed my 2014 total althoug I have passed 63 as of the date of preparing this posting 10/28. 
Update 10/31 - all links have been fixed and one duplicate removed. I am not sure what happened on the links because my working WORD document has them correctly but for some reason the first half went to a search format that resulted in 404 errors. Odd. 

JANUARY

1. Audible Book Review: 25 Perfect Days by Mark Tullius; Sci Fi, Dystopian; my rating 3.75. (This one might be better in text.)
2. Audible Book Review: FREE: The Jester (A Riyria Chronicles Tale) Written by Michael J. Sullivan; Fantasy;  my rating 4.5.
3. Audio Book Review: The Eighth Day by Michael O'Neal; Thriller, Action Adventure, YA; my rating 4.0. 
4. AudioBook Review: Time and Again: Book 1 in the History Mystery Series by Deborah Heal; Historical Fiction, Christian Fiction, Time Travel; my rating 4.0.
5. Book Review: Immortality by Kevin Bohacz; Sci Fi, Apocalyptic; my rating 4.25.
6. Audio Book Review: Enchanted by Alethea Kontis; Fantasy, Highlander; my rating 4.25.
FEBRUARY
7. Audio Book Review: Betrayal in Death: In Death, Book 12 by J. D. Robb Crime Thriller; my rating 4.75.
8. Audio Book Review: Heart of Stone: Irish Angel Series by Jill Marie Landis; Historical Romance, Christian; my rating 4.0.
9. AudioBook Review: Cleansed by Fire: A Father Frank Mystery by James R. Callan; Mystery, Christian; my rating 4.0.
10. Audible Book Review: Contingency: Sage Hannigan Time Warper, Book 1 by Peggy Martinez; Fantasy; my rating 3.75. 
11. Audible Book Review: Dead Reckoning: Sookie Stackhouse Southern Vampire Mystery #11 by Charlaine Harris; Fantasy, Paranormal; my rating 4.0.
12. Audible Book Review: The Beast Master by Andre Norton; Sci Fi, Fantasy; my rating 4.0.
MARCH
13. Audible Book Review: Finding Mr. Right by Emily Carmichael ; Fantasy, Paranormal; my rating 4.0.
14. Audio Book Review: The Keeper's Calling: The Keeper's Saga, Book 1 by Kelly Nelson; Time Travel, YA Romance; my rating 4.0.
15. Audible Book Review: Legendarium by Kevin G. Summers, Michael Bunker; Fantasy, Humor; my rating 4.0.
16. Audio Book Review: Quitter by Jon Acuff; Nonfiction; my rating 4.0.
APRIL
17. Audible Book Review: The Maze Runner: Maze Runner, Book 1 by James Dashner; Teens, Thriller; my rating 4.0.
18. Audio Book Review: All Our Yesterdays by Cristin Terril; Teen, Sci Fi Thriller; my rating 4.0.
19. Audible Book Review: Dog Tags by David Rosenfelt; legal Mystery, dogs; my rating 4.5.
20. Audio Book Review: Blood for Ink: The Scarlet Plumiere Series, Book 1 by L. L. Muir; Historical Romance; my rating 4.5.
21. Audible Book Review: Trident's First Gleaming: A Special Operations Group Thriller by Stephen Templin; Military Thriller, my rating 4.0.
22. Audible Book Review: The Snow Queen by Hans Christian Andersen; Fairy Tale Thriller, my rating 3.5.
23. Audible Book Review: StarFire: Vince Lombard, Book 1 by Mike Lee; Sci Fi Contemporary, Military; my rating 4.75.
24. Audible Book Review: Gabriel: Zero Point: The FREE Prequel Novella: Evan Gabriel Trilogy by Steve Umstead; Sci Fi, Military ; my rating 4.25.
MAY
25. Audible Book Review: Mail Order Brides of the West: Trudy by Debra Holland; Historical Romance; my rating 4.75.
26. Audio Book Review: When Death Loved an Angel by Cheree L Alsop; Fantasy, Sci Fi; my rating 4.5.
27. Audible Book Review: Gabriel's Redemption: Evan Gabriel Trilogy, Book 1 by Steve Umstead; Sci Fi, Military; my rating 4.0.
28. Audible Book Review: Virgin River by Robyn Carr; Contemporary Romance; my rating 4.0.
29. Audible Book Review: The Tempting of Thomas Carrick: The Cynster Novels, Book 21 by Stephanie Laurens; Historical Romance; my rating 4.0.
JUNE
30. Audio Book Review and Giveaway: Dawn of Destiny (Epic Book 1) by Lee Stephen;Military Sci FI; my rating 4.75. Rafflecopter Giveaway ends 7/4/2015.
31. Audio Book Review: Diamond Rings Are Deadly Things: The Wedding Planner Mysteries, Book 1, by Rachelle J. Christensen; Cozy Mystery; my rating 4.25.
32. Audible Book Review: Eighth Grave After Dark by Darynda Jones ; Fantasy, Paranormal; my rating 4.25.
33. Audible Book Review: Extremes: A Retrieval Artist Novel by Kristine Kathryn Rusch; Sci Fi Mystery; my rating 4.75.
34. Audible Book Review: Top Dog: The Story of Marine Hero Lucca by Maria Goodavage; Personal Memoir; my rating 4.5.
    JULY
    
35. Audio Book Review: The Lost Starship by Vaughn Heppner; Sci Fi Adventure; my rating 4.5.
36. Audible Book Review: The Martian by Andy Weir; Sci Fi; my rating 4.5.
37. Audible Book Review: Seduction in Death: In Death, Book 13 by J. D. Robb; Crime Thriller; my rating 4.25.
38. Audible Book Review: Sector 64: Ambush by Dean M. Cole; Sci Fi Suspense; my rating 4.0.
39. Audible Book Review: Double Whammy: A Davis Way Crime Caper, Book 1 by Gretchen Archer; Modern Detective; my rating 4.25.
40. Audible Book Review: Double Dip: A Davis Way Crime Caper, Book 2 by Gretchen Archer; Modern Detective; my rating 4.0.
AUGUST
41. Audible Book Review: Double Strike: A Davis Way Crime Caper, Book 3 by Gretchen Archer; Modern Detective; my rating 4.5.
42. Audible Review: Steelheart: Reckoners, Book 1 by Brandon Sanderson; Sci Fi, Fantasy, Action; my rating 4.5.
43. Audible Review: 14 by Peter Clines; Sci Fi; my rating 4.5.
44. Audible Review: Petticoat Detective by Margaret Brownley; Historical Romance; my rating 4.0.
45. Audible Review: The Remaining by D. J. Molles; Sci Fi, Fantasy; my rating 4.25.
46. Audible Review: The Witch with No Name: The Hollows, Book 13 by Kim Harrison; Fantasy, Paranormal; my rating 4.5.
47. Audible Review: Resurrecting Home: A Novel by A. American; Sci Fi, Post Apocalyptic; my rating 4.0.
48. Audible Review: Waking the Bear: Broken Chains, Book 1 by Kerry Adrienne; Paranormal Romance; my rating 4.25.
SEPTEMBER
49. Audible Review: The Empire's Corps by Christopher G. Nuttall; Sci Fi, Futuristic; my rating 4.25.
50. Audible Review: Come Home to Me: Second Chances Time Travel Romance Series, Book 1 by Peggy L. Henderson; Historical Romance, Time Travel; my rating 4.25.
51. Audible Review: The Remaining: Aftermath by D. J. Molles; Sci Fi, Post Apocalyptic; my rating 4.25.
52. Audible Review: The Remaining: Refugees, Book 3 by D. J. Molles; Sci Fi, Post Apocalyptic; my rating 4.5.
53. Audible Review: The Remaining: Fractured, Book 4 by D. J. Molles; Sci Fi, Post Apocalyptic; my rating 4.5.
54. Audio Review: The Sniper and the Wolf: A Sniper Elite Novel by Scott McEwen, Thomas Koloniar; Military Thriller; my rating 4.0.
55. Audible Review: Deadlocked, Book 12 by Charlaine Harris; Paranormal; my rating 4.0.
56. Audible Review: The Remaining: Allegiance by D. J. Molles; Sci Fi, Post Apocalyptic; my rating 4.25.
57. Audible Review: The Remaining: Extinction by D. J. Molles; Sci Fi, Post Apocalyptic; my rating 4.5.
OCTOBER
58. 
    

Audible Review: The Clay Lion by Amalie Jahn

This is a remarkable story of an emotional journey through loss. 

The Clay Lion

Written by: Amalie Jahn

Narrated by: Lorelei King

Length: 6 hrs and 48 mins
Unabridged Audiobook
Release Date:09-18-15
Publisher: Creative Content
Genre: Sci Fi, Fantasy, YA
My Rating 5.0 of 5.0

Publisher's Summary

Winner of the YA category in the 2015 Kindle Book Awards

What if you could go back in time to save the person you love the most? The rules are simple. If you want to travel back in time, you need to be at least 18 years old. You can travel only within your own lifespan for a maximum of six months. And, above all else, you must never, ever change the past. But that's exactly what Brooke Wallace plans to do.

As Brooke faces existence without her beloved brother, his life cut short by a rare disease, she can think of only one solution - travel back in time to prevent his death. Along the way she discovers the truth about loss, second chances, and the power to shape our own destinies.

©2013 Amalie Jahn (P)2015 Creative Content Ltd

Review:
Brooke Wallace is a senior in high school when her 14 year old brother, Branson, dies unexpectedly of a rare disease. Brooke is devastated and deeply depressed. But in Brooke’s world it is possible to travel back in time with strict rules. Each person over the age of 18 gets only one trip, they must travel within their own lifespan for no more than six months, and it is illegal to change the past. That last rule is not going to stop Brooke’s determination to travel back to save her brother.

Brooke decides she knows the cause of the disease and she plans to prevent the event that will trigger it. During Brooke’s journey she gets the joy of sharing days with her brother again but she must also share the pain of watching him get sick again.

I was quickly entranced by the characters and story. Each chapter pulled me to the next. I was initially concerned that I wouldn’t care for the YA setting. Instead that element was expertly used to reflect Brooke’s changing attitudes. I enjoyed that the family was a loving one rather than a dysfunctional unit full of shallow teenage angst. The intense emotions in this story were perfect to portray the maturing life lessons that include an investment that can result from loss.

I like time travel stories and Jahn made effective use of that concept to share an emotionally gripping story. I feel I cannot share any more detail of the story without edging into spoiler information. I am interested in the sequels in the series although I wish they were available in audio format. I found this thoroughly engaging and I highly recommend it.

Audio Notes: I immediately recognized Lorelei King’s voice and had to remind myself that this was not one of a couple of series that I love to hear her narrate. Lorelei does a beautiful job with the first person storytelling. The audio version is well worth the credit.

I was very fortunate to be offered this audio from the publisher through Audiobook Jukebox. It is part of my Audio Challenge.

Audible Review: Annihilation: Love Conquers All by Saxon Andrew

This is entertaining and reminiscent of comic book superheros v alien villains.
Annihilation: Love Conquers All
Written by: Saxon Andrew
Narrated by: Liam Owen

Length: 9 hrs and 10 mins
Series: Annihilation (Andrew), Book 1
Unabridged Audiobook
Release Date:03-26-14
Publisher: Saxon Andrew Publishing LLC
Genre: Sci Fi
My Rating: 4.25 of 5.0

Publisher's Summary
Annihilation: Love Conquers All offers humor and a tale of enduring love against the backdrop of galactic war on a grand scale.
Tag, an exceptional young human living in Central City on the planet Earth, tries to keep his powerful, one-of-a-kind skills undetected by leading an ordinary life and staying under the radar. But one day, on the way home from school, Tag's compassion leads him to make a decision that alters the course of his life - and history.
The Alliance of Worlds, which includes Earth as a ruled non-member, has decided that humans are to be annihilated as an example to anyone who discovers an ancient alien technology, even though there is no proof against them. The Alliance thinks fifty thousand warships can do the job. Unfortunately, the humans are not cooperating with their plan and one young human who has fallen in love will change everything...
In this epic story, author Saxon Andrew takes us into the future and the lives of human and nonhuman characters alike. Along with a hearty dose of battles and spaceships, this is a story that offers humor and a tale of enduring love against the backdrop of galactic war on a grand scale.
©March 2011 Saxon Andrew (P)2014 Saxon Andrew Publishing LLC.

Review:
Tag lives in Central City on planet Earth which is a planet that does not have member status but is under the control of The Alliance of Worlds. Tag’s parents realized that he had special skills and warned him not to use them in school or public where others might see him. The human society determines each persons job and right to marry so it is important to work within the system. Tag’s skills are exposed when he first tries to help a friend at school and then must escape a gang attack on the way home. Tag fears he will be punished so he goes into hiding. Three years later Tag’s hideaway is discovered and he must run again. This time he steals a private space ship in hopes of finding refuge far away.

Unfortunately a massive hunt brings Tag down on the moon where he stumbles into forbidden ancient alien technology. The Alliance of Worlds has ruled that any people who discover the forbidden technology must be annihilated to prevent them from possible use or testing or advancement from the technology. Although they can’t be certain that the warning signal came from Earth they have decided they will still destroy the planet as an example.

A near-by Alliance member, the Cainth Empire, are thrilled to be called on to take on the task of supposedly preparing Earth for detainment while they really stall for enough warships to attack the planet. A Cainth general has a personal vendetta against Earth and is looking for any opportunity to attack.

The Cainth swoop in on an Earth Colony and the results of occupation are not pretty. The Cainth believe they can easily overcome the Earth’s puny ships. But Earth has more resources, including Tag’s special powers and a surprisingly powerful ‘friend’, than anyone knows. And the humans are not going to stand by quietly while their world is attacked.

I have to admit I changed my opinion on this story several times. The beginning held some interest as I was curious to see what would happen to Tag. Then I decided the story had shifted into ‘superhero/villain’ comic book mode and I wasn’t sure if I liked that. Yet as I continued to listen I was drawn in by the action and the likeable characters. The romance is sweet but not really a big element. Yes – there is some elementary comic book level writing and plot line but, Hey, it makes for fun entertainment.

I am on the fence as to whether I will pick up the second book in the series. There are just so many books to try. I do recommend this for readers who enjoy superhero, good v evil stories.

Audio Notes: Liam Owen conveys a light voice tone which fits with the younger characters. His voice of the opposing alien characters is rough and a 'comical' villain style, all of which fits the story. The narration makes this more entertaining.

I pulled this from my Audible Library from August 2014. It qualifies for my Audio Challenge.

Audible Review: The Remaining: Extinction by D. J. Molles

This is a satisfactory conclusion although I don’t want the series to be over.

The Remaining: Extinction

by D.J. Molles

Narrated by: Christian Rummel

Length: 12 hrs and 24 mins

Series: The Remaining, Book 6

Unabridged Audiobook

Release Date:07-28-15

Publisher: Audible Studios

Genre: Sci Fi, Post Apocalyptic

My Rating: 4.5 of 5.0

Publisher's Summary

This is the sixth and final novel in the action-packed series following Special Forces captain Lee Harden and a group of survivors struggling to survive while rebuilding an America devastated by a bacterium that has turned 90 percent of the population into a ravenous horde.

The merciless tide of infected is flooding south, and time is running out to stop them. Bolstered by new allies, Captain Lee Harden continues his struggle to establish a safe haven from which the embers of a shattered society can be rekindled.

This is the sixth and final novel in D. J. Molles' best-selling series: Book one: The Remaining; book two: The Remaining: Aftermath; book three: The Remaining: Refugees; book four: The Remaining: Fractured; book five: The Remaining: Allegiance; book six: The Remaining: Extinction; novella one: The Remaining: Trust; novella two: The Remaining: Faith.

©2015 D.J. Molles (P)2015 Audible, Inc.

Review:
The healthy plague survivors led by the bottomless determination of Captain Lee Harden now face the infected hordes that are flooding into North Carolina from the northern states. Lee has already survived an assassination attempt and returned from near death to continue to lead the survivors at Camp Ryder. But the opposition has not done with its efforts to stop him. They will take ruthless steps and use betrayal to try to coerce Lee’s capitulation.

Lee and his allies make a last ditch effort to eliminate the hordes before they overrun North Carolina. As usual, the best laid plans face problems in the final execution and the situation is tense and frightening.

The lines between friends and enemies has become blurred at this point in the series. There are more human betrayals and losses to be suffered. There are also dangerous rescues to cheer. Some characters face a last chance for redemption and one newer character is revealed who might come as a surprise to some readers.

I enjoyed the continuing action, emotional ups and downs, twists and surprises. Either the language wasn't as severe in this book or I was more accustomed to it (I hope not) as it was not so glaring to me. There is still quite a bit of violence which goes hand in hand with the story lines.

This is intended to be the conclusion of the series which makes me sad. Molles really does a good job of wrapping up most of the loose ends and character threads. Still there is room for more beyond this stage and I would be eager to see the series continue. I truly enjoyed the action ride.

Audio Notes: As I have noted in the previous reviews I have greatly enjoyed Christian Rummel’s multi-faceted narration. He manages the variety of voice well and provides good emotional intensity and action. I highly recommend this series in audio. (Now I will be looking for more books narrated by Rummel in hopes of finding another good series.)

Links to my reviews of the earlier books:
The Remaining, Book 1  4.25
The Remaining: Aftermath, Book 2  4.5
The Remaining: The Refugees, Book 3  4.25
The Remaining: The Fractured, Book 4  4.5
The Remaining: Trust: a Novella  4.0
The Remaining: Faith: a Novella  4.0
The Remaining: Allegiance, Book 5 4.25

I had to get the last book to complete this series! I picked this up at Audible with my second September credit. It qualifies for my Audio Challenge.

Audible Review: The Remaining: Allegiance by D. J. Molles

This wasn’t the strongest episode but I thought it still moved forward well.
The Remaining: Allegiance
Written by: D. J. Molles
Narrated by: Christian Rummel

Length: 14 hrs and 52 mins
Series: The Remaining, Book 5
Unabridged Audiobook
Release Date:02-24-15
Publisher: Audible Studios
Genre: Sci Fi, Post Apocalyptic
My Rating: 4.25 of 5.0

Publisher's Summary
This is the fifth novel in the action-packed series following Special Forces Captain Lee Harden and a group of survivors struggling to make their way in a ruined world. After a bacterium has turned 90 percent of the population into a ravenous horde, Lee must complete his mission: SURVIVE, RESCUE, REBUILD.
©2015 D.J. Molles (P)2014 Audible Inc.

Review:
This is the fifth novel in the series. Lee is trying to recover from his injuries and struggles. He is trying to help with the state of leadership at Camp Ryder, while trying to figure out how he can help the two convoys that went east and west.

LaRouche has gone missing from the east group leaving Wilson to continue the scrambling efforts to destroy the bridges over the Roanoke River. The team is on a desperate race to stay ahead of the infected hordes they can hear and see on the north side of the river.

Harper’s team has reached Eden only to discover that they may be too late to prevent the spread of the infected hordes there. His team has been joined by a group of Marines although there is some friction between the Camp Ryder team and the Marines. An impulsive and angry decision puts one team member down with a broken leg. But real trouble appears when a betrayal takes place.

While we follow the usual characters, we also get to follow new characters. Abe and Luke were part of Project Hometown until they got new orders. They have begun to question if they are doing the ‘right’ thing. They are moving in one direction but become captives of a new element in the story.

Things move quickly in this episode following five different threads. There is still good action and much conflict as personalities continue to mold with the new realities and moralities of the situation. Sides are being drawn between those who support the concept of Project Hometown and those who are committed to follow the new President with the plans to abandon the southern states to the hordes. Lee and Camp Ryder have to face the fact that they cannot succeed without gaining new alliances.

This installment has a bit too much internal introspection that creates strange pauses. Still, I am completely wrapped in this series and I am anxious to listen to the next book to find out what happens. (There is still a lot of violence and language continuing in the series although maybe not as heavy or noticeable/memorable.)

Audio Notes: I don’t have much new to add regarding the excellent narration by Christian Rummel. I read the two novellas on Kindle and I am glad to be back to audio for the rest of the series. The narration enhances the intensity and entertainment value for me.

Links to my reviews of the earlier books:
The Remaining, Book 1
The Remaining: Aftermath, Book 2
The Remainig: The Refugees, Book 3
The Remaining: The Fractured, Book 4
The Remaining: Trust: a Novella
The Remaining: Faith: a Novella

I selected this with a September Audible Credit. This adds to my Audio Challenge.

Audio Review: The Sniper and the Wolf: A Sniper Elite Novel by Scott McEwen, Thomas Koloniar

This is full of entertaining, intense action and danger.
The Sniper and the Wolf: A Sniper Elite Novel
Written by: Scott McEwen, Thomas Koloniar
Narrated by: Brian Hutchison

Length: 10 hrs and 10 mins

Series: Sniper Elite, Book 3

Unabridged Audiobook

Release Date:05-12-15

Publisher: Simon & Schuster Audio

Genre: Military Thriller

My Rating: 4.0 of 5.0

Publisher's Summary
From the coauthor of the number-one New York Times best seller American Sniper comes a heart-pounding military thriller in which American hero and SEAL team sniper Gil Shannon joins up with an unlikely ally in order to stop a terrorist plot bent on destruction across Europe.
Hot on the trail of The Wolf, a rogue Russian military sniper turned Chechen terrorist, Gil Shannon turns from hunter to hunted when his mission is exposed by a traitor high up in US government. Shannon must turn to an unlikely ally - a deadly Russian special operative - to help even the odds. But when they discover that The Wolf is just the tip of a global terrorist plot whose goal is to upend the US economy and the stability of the Western world, Shannon and his team of operatives must track the terrorists down before their plan comes to fruition.
Shannon comes head to head with legions of enemy fighters all across Europe in this breathtakingly cinematic and realistic military thriller, ending with a faceoff between Gil and the one sniper who may be his equal shot. Will he survive?
This third action-packed and battle-filled adventure in the Sniper Elite series takes listeners along for a white-knuckle ride across Europe in the company of American soldiers, Russian special operatives, and global leaders - and will keep you on the edge of your seat until the final scene.
©2015 Scott McEwen and Thomas Koloniar (P)2015 Simon & Schuster

Review:
Gil Shannon is a CIA operative called the Sniper. He is known for his fierce determination to see a mission through and remove any terrorist threats he can reach. He has been sent to remove one threat but comes upon a conspiracy that included false identity, agency betrayal and ties to Sasha Govolanko, a renowned former Russian sniper known as the Wolf. Gil joins up with a Russian specialist, Degrunov, as they chase the Wolf through Paris, Sicily, Turkey and ultimately Russia. Along the way Gil and Degrunov become the hunted prey of the Wolf, as well as the hunters.

Meanwhile several dishonest CIA operatives around the world are juggling and running as a strict leader, Robert Pope, intent on cleaning house, becomes the newly appointed commander of the CIA. As Pope, and other leaders at the highest levels, including the President and a General, share information about Gil’s locations and actions they learn how easy it is to speak too freely around employees who may have been compromised or turned by greed. There is a lot of behind the action, political maneuvering to balance and negotiate interests. Gil keeps creating ‘messes’ and his superiors are continuing to use the problems to their best political interest and advantage.

I enjoyed the fast paced, dangerous action and the intrigue. Scenes bounce from one side of the world to the other as Gil deals with foreign killers and an assassin tracks the rogue CIA agents. There are parts of the story that sounded like an armory inventory. There is some harsh language and, of course, much violence. The writing has a feel of Marvel comic heroism to it which provides good entertainment.  The level of realism is either scary or questionable - I am undecided. I recommend this to readers/listeners who like action, military thrillers.

Audio Notes: This was slow going as the format required that I listen to it on my computer instead of my player. I would much prefer to download this through Audible than in the format from the publisher. The quality of the production is very good and Brian Hutchison does a good job with the narration. He provided varied voices and accents and conveyed the intensity of the story. The audio enhanced my enjoyment for the story.

I received this audio from the publisher through Audiobook Jukebox. It qualifies as part of my Audio Challenge.

Audible Review: The Remaining: Fractured by D. J. Molles

This series is harsh (violence and language) but it is gripping emotionally and philosophically as well as being great entertainment.
The Remaining: Fractured
Written by: D. J. Molles
Narrated by: Christian Rummel

Length: 19 hrs and 28 mins
Series: The Remaining, Book 4
Unabridged Audiobook
Release Date:08-27-13
Publisher: Audible Studios
Genre: Sci Fi, Post Apocalyptic
My Rating: 4.5 of 5.0

Publisher's Summary
This is the destiny of those who stand for others. Their honor will be bought in blood and pain. The Camp Ryder Hub is broken. Lee is nowhere to be found, and his allies are scattered across the state, each of them learning that their missions will not be as easy as they thought. Inside the walls of Camp Ryder, a silent war is brewing, between those few that still support Lee's vision of rebuilding, and the majority that support Jerry's desire for isolation. But this war will not remain silent for long. And in this savage world, everyone will have to make a choice. To keep their morals. Or keep their lives.
©2013 D.J. Molles (P)2013 Audible, Inc.

Review:
Half of Lee’s friends are off to the East to deal with bridges in Roanoke and the other half are off to the west to establish a ‘base’ in Eden. Lee himself has gone missing. Jerry decides this is a perfect time to make a move to take over Camp Ryder. Angie gets caught in the process and becomes an enemy and target of Jerry’s threats. He can’t remove her without angering the half of the Camp that were Bus supporters and creating questions among the others.

This is an intense installment in the series. Each of the separate groups have to face great hardship and the possibility that they will not be successful in their mission. The key characters are portrayed as they deal with the emotional depression and hopelessness of their situations as well as the moral decline they see in their circumstances and the personal moral choices they each struggle with.

It is not clear if Lee will survive the dangers he faces. LaRoche and Brother Jim continue to battle on philosophical issues that disrupt their mission which is already on a time crunch and facing attacks from The Followers. Harper’s team faces an infected attack that traumatizes certain team members. Really, all the primary characters are traumatized but some react more dramatically than others. Some are strengthened while others are shattered but many are hardened so they can press on in spite of the challenges. The situations had me gasping, wincing, inwardly saying “no, no no!” (and an occasional fist pump "yes!")  and hiding my eyes as if I could hide from the traumas.

I have found some symbolism in this series but I suspect that the symbolism may vary according to the reader. (This assumes that the author has intended symbolism beyond the considerable entertainment value of the story.) There is still much bad language and much violence. But the story transcends those negatives. I was ready to pick up the novellas and the next full installment when I competed this audio.

Audio Notes: When I finish this series I may well look for other books that Christian Rummel has narrated. He is fast becoming a favorite narrator for me. I continue to be impressed by his ability to shift seamlessly from narration to character voices. It is remarkable and I definitely recommend this in audio format.

Links to my reviews of the earlier books:
The Remaining, Book 1
The Remaining: Aftermath, Book 2
The Remainig: The Refugees, Book 3

I purchased this audio with an Audible Credit so I could continue in the series. It qualifies for my audio challenge.

Audible Review: Deadlocked: A Sookie Stackhouse Novel, Book 12 by Charlaine Harris

Sookie faces conflict with friends and mystery with family.

Deadlocked: A Sookie Stackhouse Novel, Book 12

Written by: Charlaine Harris

Narrated by: Johanna Parker

Length: 9 hrs and 29 mins

Series: Sookie Stackhouse, Book 12

Unabridged Audiobook

Release Date:05-01-12

Publisher: Recorded Books

Genre: Paranormal, Fantasy

My Rating: 4.0 of 5.0

Publisher's Summary

It’s vampire politics as usual around the town of Bon Temps, but never before have they hit so close to Sookie’s heart….

Growing up with telepathic abilities, Sookie Stackhouse realized early on there were things she'd rather not know. And now that she's an adult, she also realizes that some things that she knows about, she'd rather not see—like Eric Northman feeding off another woman. A younger one.

There's a thing or two she'd like to say about that, but she has to keep quiet—Felipe de Castro, the Vampire King of Louisiana (and Arkansas and Nevada), is in town. It’s the worst possible time for a human body to show up in Eric's front yard—especially the body of the woman whose blood he just drank.

Now, it's up to Sookie and Bill, the official Area Five investigator, to solve the murder. Sookie thinks that, at least this time, the dead girl's fate has nothing to do with her. But she is wrong. She has an enemy, one far more devious than she would ever suspect, who's set out to make Sookie's world come crashing down.

©2012 Charlaine Harris, Inc. (P)2012 Recorded Books, LLC

Review:
Sookie and her vampire ‘husband’, Eric, have been having trouble getting together. Sookie has been busy with her work at Merlot’s and with Dermot and Claude, her two faery relatives, who are living with her. Eric has been busy trying to get his bar back on even footing while waiting for his superior to come question the death of another vampire.

Finally Felipe de Castro, the Vampire King of Louisiana, arrives and Sookie has to make a command appearance. Bill and another wolf/guard at Eric’s house warn Sookie to turn around and go home. But she insists on making her appearance to Eric’s king. She isn’t happy to see the ill-behaved vampire guests but then she walks into their bedroom to find Eric feeding off another woman who is sprawled across his lap. The young, taunting woman is sent out while Sookie retreats to the bathroom to get control of her emotions. Shortly thereafter the police arrive to investigate the death of the young woman on the front lawn. It is pretty clear that someone is setting Eric up and driving a wedge between Eric and Sookie. Bill and Sookie set off to investigate.

Sookie has suspicions that Sam’s new girlfriend really doesn’t like her. But Sookie is dealing with other issues at home. Her great-great-grandfather, Neil, has suddenly returned from the mostly sealed faery land and he disappears with Claude. This leaves mild, Great-Uncle Dermot to try to manage the restless crowd of fae and elves at Hooligans bar.

Many of the dangerous elves are being drawn to Sookie and her home. It appears that she has uncovered a unique and coveted fae artifact that her grandmother had hidden in a desk that was in the attic. Sookie is kidnapped and bit by bit the clues indicate that she has an enemy closer than she thinks.

This is book 12 and although it does not have as much violence and action as some of the prior books, I found it interesting. There was mystery and conflict that kept the story moving well.
I am looking forward to reading book 13 to see how this series concludes.

Audio Notes: Johanna Parker is the voice of Sookie for me. She does a wonderful job with the accents and the story to enhance the enjoyment.

This was from my Audible TBR shelf. It counts for my Audio Challenge.

Audible Review: The Remaining: Refugees by D. J. Molles

I have become very engaged in the characters and story of this series.
The Remaining: Refugees
Written by: D. J. Molles
Narrated by: Christian Rummel

Length: 14 hrs and 3 mins
Series: The Remaining, Book 3
Unabridged Audiobook
Release Date:08-27-13
Publisher: Audible Studios
Genre: Sci Fi, Post Apocalyptic
My Rating: 4.5 of 5.0

Publisher's Summary
He has fought the fight, and run the race. But the enemies never stop coming, and the race has no finish line. It has been three months since Captain Lee Harden found the survivors at Camp Ryder. With winter looming, Lee is on the verge of establishing Camp Ryder as a hub of safety and stability in the region. But not everyone agrees with Lee’s mission... or his methods. Growing tensions between camp leadership are coming to a head, and as Lee struggles amid the dissention and controversy, new revelations about the infected threaten to destroy everything he has worked for. The Remaining: Refugees is the third book in the best-selling The Remaining series.
©2012 D.J. Molles (P)2013 Audible, Inc.

Review:
The third book in this “infected” series, finds Captain Lee Harper working with the community at Camp Ryder and bringing relief that only he can provide. Lee and several men have developed a method to trap and clear the infected in nearby cities. They established these as outposts to extend the safety boundary and scavenging efforts beyond Camp Ryder. A scraggly young man appears at the gates of the camp specifically asking for Captain Harden. Jacob is a young biogenetics scientist who was sent by the Hometown Project leader in Virginia. He brings alarming news about the Project and the hordes of infected ravishing the northern states.

Two new groups have been set up at one outpost: Professor White and a dozen or so students, and crotchety Old Man Hughes with a small group. The Hughes group is willing to serve as an outpost in exchange for being primarily left alone, away from the rifts and arguments which are escalating at Camp Ryder.

Professor White is a pacifist who initially refuses accepting guns for his people. He is not really in favor of Lee’s plans to continue the military push to find more survivors in North Carolina.  White wants to make a run for the mountains to the west after hearing Jacob’s news. Jerry doesn’t want any more refugees and he conspires with White to set up a plan to take over leadership of the Camp from Bus.

Lee and his team are ambushed while trying to access another bunker. It seems that someone is specifically targeting him.

Lee sends out two paramilitary groups with distinct missions. Harper is to lead a group to set up a new outpost further to the west. The other convoy will head east to blow up bridges across the Roanoke River. This team may have to face a group of fanatics known as The Followers who have been rumored as attacking refugee settlements. Lee assigns LaRouche to lead this group after Lee is surprised by an old comrade and determines that he has to resolve issues before he goes out again.

Once again there is a lot of action and danger throughout the different segments of the survivors. Mr. Molles continues to develop the characters and their relationships as they deal with their new world, its distressing problems and the humanitarian and power conflicts. There is still a lot of violence and bad language but I am totally engaged. I purchased the next book so I can keep following the survivor struggles.

Audio Notes: I am still enjoying the narration by Christian Rummel. His character voices and intensity for the action adds to the entertainment quality of the series.

Links to my other reviews in the Series:
The Remaining, Book 1
The Remaining: Aftermath, Book 2

I had this in my Audible Library from 2014. I consider it part of my Audio Challenge and a TBR read.