Audio Book Review: Loreena's Gift by Colleen M. Story

This engaging audio presents a different view (not religious) of afterlife.

Loreena's Gift
by Colleen M. Story
Narrator: Alyssa Bresnahan

Length: 12 hrs and 4 mins
Unabridged Audiobook
Release Date:04-12-16
Publisher: Recorded Books
Genre: Listed as Religious & Inspirational
(although I think it fits Fantasy better)
My Rating: 4.25 of 5.0

Description
Loreena Picket is a young blind woman with a gift. In the rare moments when she's not wearing her gloves, if she takes your hand, she travels with you to your own personal afterlife. Loreena will return -- you won't. Loreena's minister uncle says her power is a gift from God, and together they help terminally ill people die peacefully. Still, Loreena is conflicted, because she's seen the afterlife, and it's nothing like her uncle says it is. This uneasy peace is shattered when one night, Loreena must take a life to save her wayward brother. This act draws her unwillingly into a seedy world of crime, and she must learn to survive being kidnapped, confined, and used for her power. And, ultimately, she must discover whether her true nature is that of an angel of mercy or an assassin.

Review:
Loreena has more troubles than just her blindness. If she touches anyone hand to hand she takes them to their death. The first time it happens as an accident to a growing friend and she is devastated. Guilt is a heavy burden even as her uncle, a preacher, pushes her to assist terminally ill congregants to ‘pass over’. Each death journey is different once they pass through the initial ‘tunnel’. In addition to the guilt she feels Loreena is confused by what she perceives as conflict in the journeys and the faith teachings of her uncle.

Loreena is thrilled to unexpectedly see her brother, Saul, who walked away three years before. She agrees to go out with him and his new girlfriend, who happened to be the daughter of the cancer patient she just helped. During their evening at the bar a business ‘enforcer’ comes after Saul. The man beats Saul and then pulls a gun. Loreena reacts to stop the man – an act that propels her into a nightmare.

A strange man appears in the church. Dominic claims to be a journalist who wants to do an interview of the blind church pianist. Loreena steps out of her carefully controlled world and convinces Dominic to help her go looking for her brother. Instead they find a gang boss who wants to use her skills for his own purposes.

The story is told from Loreena’s POV and the author does a good job of presenting her world of sounds, smells and touches. When Loreena is forced to use her ‘gift’ against her will some of the afterlife scenes are far from serene. The story has a certain amount of creepiness and darkness – in more than sight. There is violence and a jolting rape scene. It fits in the story but is painful.

The story is listed under ‘religious and inspirational’ but I didn’t really feel it fit that genre as much as it fits in fantasy and paranormal. I liked the twists of the story and found it very engaging. I recommend this to readers who like paranormal tales with a bit of darkness (no pun intended).

Audio Notes: Alyssa Bresnahan does an effective job of narration. Her voice fits the age of Loreena (21) and even though the presentation is a bit low key (her style I think?) she conveys the emotions of the characters. The narration enhanced my engagement with the story.

I received this audio from the publisher through Audiobook Jukebox.  It qualifies for my Audio Book Challenge.

Audible Book Review: Kiss an Angel by Susan Elizabeth Phillips

This is a charmingly fun and easy romance.
Kiss an Angel
Written by: Susan Elizabeth Phillips
Narrated by: Anna Fields

Length: 11 hrs and 24 mins
Unabridged Audiobook
Release Date:04-02-07
Publisher: Books on Tape
My Rating: 4.5 of 5.0

Publisher's Summary
Arranged marriages seldom happen in modern America, so Daisy Devreaux hates her father's ultimatum: marry the humorless man he has picked for her, or go to jail. It's not much of a deal for Alex Markov, the prospective groom, either. He's got no time to indulge an uptown girl.
So Alex puts Daisy to work in his traveling circus, expecting the harsh realities will break her. Instead, he finds she's got heart enough for both of them.
©1996 Susan Elizabeth Phillips; (P)1996 Books on Tape

Review:
Daisy was raised by a beautiful but flighty mother who loved men. Pampered as a princess, Daisy was never really grounded in living skills. When her mother passed away Daisy went on a spending spree with no understanding of the debt that she faced. Her wealthy father gives her ultimatum – go to jail for writing bad checks or marry a man he has chosen for her. The man, Alex, may be strong and handsome but Daisy doesn’t like his stern, humorless countenance.

Alex is a private man who had never intended to marry. But he has his own good reasons for agreeing to marry Daisy – not that he plans to tell her why. He doesn’t plan to tell her much of anything as he has no time to indulge a ‘rich princess’. He does pan to put her to work in the traveling circus really hoping to chase her back to daddy.

Daisy is dismayed to find herself in a ratty trailer in the middle of a struggling traveling circus. Not only is the living situation a drop for her but the circus owner clearly resents her presence. Most of the circus members are willing to welcome Daisy and are particularly thrilled to learn she is married to Alex – even if he doesn’t seem too thrilled. Then an event occurs that turns all of the workers against her.

Daisy is punished with the lowest of duties – cleaning up after the elephants. Everyone is expected to pull their weight and no one cares that Daisy is afraid of dogs much less elephants! She now has to suffer through the worst tasks and the snubs and jeers of everyone or she has to admit defeat and run home to a father who already considers her a failure at life. No one suspected the heart that Daisy reveals. Although nearly tempted to give in, instead she finds the grit to stick it out and to push Alex to open his heart.

I do enjoy the light romances by Susan Elizabeth Phillips (SEP). She creates distinct characters and puts them into real life, if sometimes unusual, settings. This circus setting was great fun and Daisy does make a few surprising friends. I liked how her character grows into the inner strengths that she always had but never had to reach. Alex has his own damaged past and Phillips creates a charming story as Daisy’s exuberance, bravery and out right heart melt his ice cold walls.

The story is full of heart and humor. There is some foul language which is too bad that you have to jump past that. I recommend this fun read and other romances by this author.

Audio Notes: Anna Fields, who died in 2006, was a fabulous fit for SEP romances. She gives each of the characters their own voice and makes them come alive. I always enjoy listening to her narration and am sorry she is no longer with us. I realized a bit into this book that is was familiar. I read it in print in 2009. I enjoyed revisiting it in audio.

I added this to my Audible library in 2012. This adds to my Audio and TBR Challenges and is a "K" in Alphabet Challenge.

Audio Book Review: Haraken: A Silver Ships Novel by S. H. Jucha

This is great entertainment with good characters, conflict and creativity.
Haraken: A Silver Ships Novel
By: S. H. Jucha
Read by: Grover Gardner


Series: The Silver Ships Series, book 4
Runtime: 10.9 Hours
Recording: Unabridged
Release date: 7.12.2016
Publisher: Scott H. Jucha
ISBN-13: 978-1-5047-2567-5
Genre: Fiction/Science Fiction
My Rating: 4.75 of 5.0

Nine years of tranquility came to an abrupt end when a Méridien starship entered the Hellébore system, sounding a dire warning for Alex Racine, the Haraken president. Unwanted visitors had arrived again. But this time, they’re not alien; they’re human. Claiming to have followed the course of a colony ship launched a millennium ago when Earth wrestled with resource wars and climate change, the mission commander, Antonio García, requests a meeting with the planet’s leaders. The Earthers profess a kinship with all humans, and their great desire is to have Méridien join their United Earth (UE). Alex Racine journeys to Méridien to investigate and uncover the Earthers’ intentions. In the Haraken world, SADEs (self-aware digital entities) have been freed from their boxes aboard the Méridien-built starships. The mobile SADEs are powerful players in Alex’s strategies, inventing ingenious methods to investigate the Earthers and their ship. Complicating matters, the Méridien leadership is in turmoil. The Council Leader insists her people ignore the Earthers, but this path has costs. As tensions escalate, García sends a request for support to his superiors back on Earth, lest his discovery of the rich, Méridien worlds, boasting unbelievable advanced technology, slip through his grasp. A UE battleshiop heeds the call, escalating the pressure for action. Join the journey as the Harakens and Méridiens work together to protect their planets and their way of life from the newest invaders.
© 2016 by S. H. Jucha

Review:
Alex Racine is the president of Haraken, a planet of humans in a far system that includes two other planets, Méridien and the New Terrans. These peoples are distant decedents of two Earth colonies that went different ways over 700 years before. One group is much more technically advanced than the others which sets up conflicts and challenges, as well as alien attacks, which are presented in books 1 – 3.

Alex is clearly the “golden boy” to most of the population. Only the Counsel of the Méridien appears to be threatened by Alex’s control and popularity. She wants to control her government and people and keep them away from Alex and his AI friends, the SADEs, self-directed digital entities (AIs now mobile!).

An Earth explorer ship arrives in the system and is interested, then amazed by the advanced technology. The Méridien leader refuses to acknowledge or talk with the Earth ship. This puts the Earth leaders in the position of planning to overtake the planets by force is they can’t negotiate subjugation. Alex arranges to meet with the Earth leader in a social setting hiding his true authority. The Earth ship appears to have superior fighting power and Alex is aware of the threat of these forces. He must figure a way to convince them to leave his worlds alone. If not peacefully, or by trickery, then by force.

Alex’s character is a bit of a ‘super hero’ but he is likeable. I especially liked his interaction with the SADEs who are delightful characters, especially Alex’s best friend, Julien. The Earther personalities are forceful and several are unpleasant bullies with conquest mentality. I enjoyed the conflicts within the system and from the threat of the Earther ships.

The author slips in subtle (or not so subtle) portrayals of various political factors. It isn’t hard to think of our own world and leaders of differing styles, temperaments, personal goals and motives.

I was a little concerned that I had not read books 1 through 3. I think there could have been a bit more backstory as there was only a little hint of the prior stories. This adventure is fairly well self-contained with a full plot that can stand alone. I will be going back to get the prior books which have been on my Audible Wish List. I definitely want the next book, Sol when released on audio. I recommend this to sci fi fans who enjoy space opera.

Audio Notes: Grover Gardner is a well known, marvelous narrator. (I enjoy his narrations of the Andy Carpenter Series by David Rosenfelt.) Grover managers to portray the various voices and emotions so I become immersed in a story that comes alive. The narration made this an extra pleasure of reading entertainment.

I received this audio from the publisher through Audiobook Jukebox. This qualifies for Audio Challenge and H in Alphabet Soup.

Audible Book Review: Grave Surprise: Harper Connelly Mysteries, Book 2 by Charlaine Harris

This is an engaging mystery and easy listen
Grave Surprise: Harper Connelly Mysteries, Book 2
Written by: Charlaine Harris
Narrated by: Alyssa Bresnahan

Length: 8 hrs and 30 mins
Series: Harper Connelly Mysteries, Book 2
Unabridged Audiobook
Release Date:07-18-07
Publisher: Recorded Books
Genre: Mystery, Paranormal
My Rating: 4.25 of 5.0

Publisher's Summary
Twenty-something Harper Connelly has a gift. After being struck by lighting as a child, she discovered an eerie ability to locate the deceased.
In Memphis, skeptical Professor Nunley wants her to demonstrate her skill at an ancient cemetery. There, Harper stands atop a grave and says there are two bodies entombed: one centuries old, but the other, a young girl named Tabitha.
Her assertion holds water. Tabitha has been missing for two years - and now the police are suspicious of Harper. So with her loyal stepbrother, Tolliver, Harper begins to amass clues that will solve the case.
©2006 Charlaine Harris Inc; (P)2007 Recorded Books

Review:
Harper Connelly was struck by lightning as a child and survived with a special ‘gift’. She can locate the dead by feel of the ground or burial spot and she can identify the cause of death – natural or unnatural. She might be able to say how a victim died but that doesn’t tell her who perpetrated the murder. Although it isn’t easy, her skills provide a career in which she is aided by her loyal stepbrother Tolliver.

Harper is challenged by a jeering college professor to show her skills to his special class. The professor becomes angry and the class is surprised as Harper successfully identifies one death after another in the old Memphis cemetery. Then Harper is shocked when she stands on a grave that reveals a child she was seeking a year before. Harper had been engaged by the parents to find the missing little girl but with few clues she was unsuccessful.

Harper and Tolliver have to deal with local and FBI authorities who look suspect at them. They also have to meet with the family members who have a range of reactions to the discovery of the body. Harper has to dig through the clues to find out how the child was buried in a different city and why events were manipulated so that she would find the body.

I liked the thought processes shared for Harper who is a well-developed, engaging character. Her relationship with her stepbrother, already an important element which affects them both, appears to be poised for a change. The skeptics are fully represented and the suspects are lined up as Ms. Harris skillfully lays out the clues to the mystery. This is different than the Sookie Stackhouse series but enjoyable for the mystery and psychic elements. 

This was an easy, fairly quick listen. I would read more in this series. It was very enjoyable and I recommend it to mystery lovers who enjoy a touch of psychic with their clues.

Audio Notes: It took me a little time to get used to the narration by Alyssa Bresnahan. It seemed rather low-key initially but as it proceeded I felt the voices and subdued tone fit the spooky elements of the story. I was glad to have this in audio format for quick reading/listening.

This is from my Audible Library - 2012. This qualifies for my TBR and Audio Challenges and "G" in Alphabet Challenge.

Audiobook Review: Mistletoe Mayhem: Dawson Chronicles, Book 1 by Linda Bridey

This is a sweet romance with interesting details about Montana's involvement during WWI.
Mistletoe Mayhem: Dawson Chronicles, Book 1
Written by: Linda Bridey
Narrated by: Mary Ann Weathers

Length: 6 hrs and 51 mins
Series: Dawson Chronicles, Book 1
Unabridged Audiobook
Release Date:04-08-16
Publisher: Beldene Publishing
Genre: Sweet Historical Romance
My Rating: 3.75 of 5.0

Publisher's Summary
In 1918, Sawyer Samuels is injured in The Great War and given a medical discharge. He's sent back to his hometown of Dawson, Montana, but it's a bittersweet homecoming. There is more to his discharge than he can tell most people. Shortly after coming home, Sawyer runs into Devon Dwyer, the woman who rejected his marriage proposal before he enlisted in the army. His feelings for her are as strong as ever, but after their painful parting, there's no going back.
Seeing Sawyer again drives home the point to Devon that her heart still belongs to him even though she's tried to move on. However, she knows the situation is hopeless. There's still too much anger and pain between them to reconcile - or is there?
Enter a group of their wily friends who have some tricks up their sleeves to push Sawyer and Devon to attempt to repair their broken relationship. As the Christmas season begins, chaos and mayhem ensue. Meanwhile, tensions in Dawson rise as suspicions rise and threaten the peace and wellbeing of their town. Can Sawyer and Devon recapture the love they once shared? Can the citizens of Dawson rise to the challenges and dangers that arise? Join the adventure and find out.©2015 Linda Bridey (P)2016 Linda Bridey

Review:
Sawyer Samuels felt it was his duty to go to war for his country but his girlfriend, Devon, took it as a rejection and broke up with him. Sawyer returns home on a medical discharge hoping the local doctor can reset his broken ankle. Sawyer soon sees Devon but they can barely be civil to each other. She still feels abandoned and he doesn’t trust her lack of understanding. Their friends set out to make them realize how much they still care for each other, but underhanded tricks might backfire unexpectedly.

Sawyer has other troubles as he took photographs during the battles that are not permitted to be taken or shared. Authorities show up demanding that he turn over any photos he has.

Meanwhile, there are tensions in town with some zealous patriots challenging the able bodied men, especially the Native Americans even though they sent their sons to war too. Mayor Joe is accused of speaking critically about the war and he is jailed right before Christmas. Other townsfolk want Joe to play his part in the Christmas play, A Christmas Carol. Sawyer and his friends conjure up a clever plan to break Joe out for the play and hoping to convince the accuser to drop the charges.

I enjoyed the historical aspects of the importance of the people of Montana, including the Native Americans, and their contributions to the efforts of World War I. I also found it interesting that there was such censorship and bad feelings about negative aspects of the war.

There is conflict and humor and the path to restoration of the romance between Sawyer and Devon makes a sweet story. There is a bonus with a second romance struggle between Joey (Jr) and Snow Song, a half-Indian. Plus there is a teaser courtship added after this story concludes.

Although I enjoyed the story I didn’t feel as pulled in as I had hoped. The story seemed warm enough, the characters nice enough and the historical aspects interesting enough but there was just not a strong connection for me. I think I would like to give this author another try in the future. I do recommend this to readers who enjoy sweet, historical, family-centered romance.

Audio Notes: Mary Ann Weathers did a fair job with the audio but, honestly, I wasn’t enthralled with the narration. I didn’t hear a big difference in voices, the reading seemed almost too young and, at times, it was just a “reading”, rather than a strong audio performance. This might have worked better for me as an ebook or in print.

I received this audio title from the narrator through AudioBook Boom for an honest review. This is part of my 2016 Audio Challenge.

Audio Book Review: Tarah Woodblade: The Bowl of Souls Book 6

Good action, strong characters, an interesting plot and good narration work together to make this an engaging listen.
Tarah Woodblade: The Bowl of Souls Book 6
Written by: Trevor H. Cooley
Narrated by: Andrew Tell


Length: 11 hrs and 35 mins
Series: The Bowl of Souls, Book 6
Series: Jharro Grove, Book 1
Unabridged Audiobook
Release Date:01-29-16
Publisher: Trevor H. Cooley
Genre: Fantasy, Epic
My Rating: 4.5 of 5.0

Publisher's Summary
The war is over, but there is a void of power that must be filled and no shortage of souls eager to fill it.
Tarah Woodblade was the best guide and tracker in the land, but she ran away from the war. She returns to Dremaldria expecting to be labeled a coward, but finds herself lauded as a hero. It seems a hero is needed too, because someone is hunting rogue horses....
©2013, 2015 Trevor H. Cooley (P)2016 Trevor H. Cooley

Review:
Tarah Woodblade drags herself back to her home town expecting to be scorned because she ran when war broke out. She is surprised when she is hailed as a hero. After all she did lead many people to safety that fateful night before she disappeared. Now she just has to reconcile with her own guilt.

Before she can even make it to her off the path home, she is pulled in for a new assignment. The local guild hires her to work for them to track rogue horses. Tarah is one of the best trackers around even though she carefully hides the secret of her success.

Rogue horses are not really horses. Well, parts of them might be. But other parts are gorilla or lion or unicorn or many other creatures. They are rogue because they have been constructed by the magic of a fierce magician who is no longer around to create more. The few rogue horses still hiding possess great power and are extremely valuable for more reasons than suspected. Tarah is more than willing to track these wondrous creatures to try to get them away from the bandit dwarves who are selling them knowing they will be slaughtered.

Tarah is teamed with Djeri (Jerry with a D) and neither is thrilled with the teaming at first. But as they move forward they begin to recognize and appreciate each other’s skills. I enjoyed how their reluctant pairing grew to a caring team. Djeri stands by Tarah and supports her as she faces current danger and trauma and deals with the dark emotions of her past. Most important, he believes in her and helps her change her attitude.

Tarah is an annoying character at first. It is clear she has spent a lot of time alone as she is constantly speaking to herself within her head. She especially repeats dialogue from her steady and logical father which is offset by the crafty strengths of her grandfather. I enjoyed how Mr. Cooley ‘grew’ Tarah’s character through the book. I really liked her tracking skills and the fighting skills of both Tarah and Djeri which were displayed through plenty of action.

Tarah Woodblade is the 6th book in the Bowl of Souls series but the first in The Jharro Grove Saga. I was worried about coming in at the 6th in a series but the book stands well on its own. There was enough backstory that I felt I got a sense of some of the adventures that must be covered in the earlier books. There are moonrats whose queen was apparently killed by Tarah. But the spirit or essence of the queen lives on in a bizarre location. There are nasty wizards and dwarves who are a threat to the horses and a threat to Tarah and Djeri.

This is good fantasy with magic, dwarves, gnomes, and an assortment of creatures. I would definitely be interested in reading or listening to more in the series as this was fun and engaging.

Audio Notes: Andrew Tell did an excellent job with this narration. He provided different voice accents and emotional levels that fit the characters, even the female protagonist. His narration was clear and flowed well. It added to my enjoyment of the story.

I received this audio title from the narrator through AudioBook Boom for an honest review. It qualifies toward my 2016 Audio Challenge.

Audio Book Review: Apocalypse Machine by Jeremy Robinson

I thoroughly enjoyed this action packed, engaging EOTW Thriller.

Apocalypse Machine
Written by: Jeremy Robinson
Narrated by: Jeffrey Kafer

Length: 10 hrs and 18 mins
Unabridged Audiobook
Release Date:07-12-16
Publisher: Breakneck Media
Genre: Sci Fi, EOTW Thriller
My Rating: 4.5 of 5.0

Publisher's Summary
The human race started the sixth mass extinction on Earth.
A chain of subglacial volcanoes erupt in Iceland. The melting ice floods the countryside. Poisonous gas descends on Scotland. A tsunami devastates the Norwegian coastline. An ash cloud rises into the atmosphere, blotting out the sun across Europe, ushering in a new Ice Age. Dozens of nuclear power plants, flooded by ocean water, experience meltdowns. Millions perish. Many more are displaced. All on the first day.
On the second day, a series of earthquakes moving in a straight line, reveal the presence of something massive walking across the landscape. Concealed by a thick, radioactive ash cloud, the 'aberration' heads west, toward Russia.
Abraham Wright, a science writer for Modern Scientist, who wants nothing more than to be reunited with his family, finds himself at the center of the United States' response to the crisis. Under his new title as Assistant Science Advisor to the President, Wright is sent to Europe with a team of Army Rangers, where he uncovers the truth about the ancient behemoth laying waste to the world: there have been five mass extinctions on planet Earth, and the aberration has been present at each.
On the third day, the world fights back.
And loses.
Separated from his family by continents and oceans ravaged by countless disasters and populated by strange new life, Wright struggles to survive in an evolving world. Hoping to uncover the key to mankind's redemption, he fights for answers, and to reach his loved ones - before the human race's extinction.
The Apocalypse Machine will finish it.
Jeremy Robinson returns to the Kaiju thriller genre he popularized with the largest Kaiju to ever appear in fiction: the Apocalypse Machine. Bursting with all the epic action, desperate struggle and complex characters that listeners have come to expect, Robinson takes the world to the brink.
©2016 Jeremy Robinson (P)2016 Jeremy Robinson

Review:
Abraham Wright is a science journalist. He knows ‘a lot about a lot’. He is with a team examining an Iceland volcano when they stumble (literally) across an unexpected object. One team member steps on a sharp point. Abraham gets down on the ice to inspect the out of place item. When he touches the point he is sent into a strange dream state and begins to see visions. As he is pulled out of the vision, he discovers his hand is burned and the ice around them is melting at such a speed that they may not be able to get back down the mountain safely.

Abraham has unintentionally triggered a monster machine. First it leads to volcanic eruptions which is followed by melting floods and poisonous gases. Next come the tsunamis. But that is not the worst of the destruction that has been unleashed. The Apocalypse Machine monster, which appears to be alive, strides out across Europe crushing the nuclear power plants that haven’t already suffered melt down.

Abraham and a few of the other scientists escape the machine and make it home to the United States. Abraham’s primary goal is to keep his family safe. The government has other plans. He is whisked off to a secret government facility to meet with the President and other high authorities who are trying to figure out how to survive the devastation that the human race is facing.

Although his family, consisting of his wife and son and his mistress and another son, are flown in to be with him, he is soon sent out on another dangerous mission. Abraham and a highly skilled team of military men are sent to examine the machine and learn more about it.

Abraham and the team leader barely survive the encounter with the machine. Once again Abraham is struck with visions but he doesn’t know what it means. They survive attack by parasites and face one battle after another trying to get back to the states. Early in their flight they are joined by a trained Mossad agent so at least Abraham has skilled military friends to help him survive. But they wouldn’t make it without his ability to think on his feet and improvise. The Machine is busy re-seeding (terra-forming) the world and there are many new, hostile creatures. Many years later will they be able to stop the machine before it wipes out all of humanity?

This book is packed full of action as well as intriguing near death dangers. I really liked Abraham and his companions. The author does a remarkable job creating a Biblical analogy which isn’t obvious until near the end of the book. That doesn’t make it preachy in any way, although the book does speak to mankind’s own tendencies to destroy its planet home.

Some of the events are a stretch. Still the full package is very engaging and I will want to read more by Mr. Robinson. I recommend this to sci fi fans.

Audio Notes: Jeffrey Kafer does an excellent job with the narration. He captures the character of Abraham and does a fine job with the other voices and characters also. He keeps a good pace and gives the story action depth. I do recommend this in audio format.

I received this audio title from the narrator through AudioBook Boom. It adds to my Audio Challenge.

Audio Book Review: Unseemly Pursuits: The Concordia Wells Mysteries Book 2 by K.B. Owen

This is a fun, engaging, character driven historical mystery series.
Unseemly Pursuits: The Concordia Wells Mysteries Book 2
Written by: K.B. Owen
Narrated by: Becket Royce

Length: 8 hrs and 29 mins
Series: Concordia Wells, Book 2
Unabridged Audiobook
Release Date:10-02-15
Publisher: K.B. Owen Mysteries
Genre: Historical, Mystery
My Rating: 4.5 of 5.0

Publisher's Summary
A deadly secret that won't stay buried....
It is the fall of 1896, and Miss Concordia Wells is hip-deep in the usual tumult of a lady professor's life: classes, clubs, student pranks, and the unending drama generated by the girls she lives with on campus. Complicating this normality is the new Lady Principal, whom the students have nicknamed "the Ogre". The woman seems bent on making Concordia's life miserable.
Events take a grave turn, however, when an ancient Egyptian amulet donated to the college mysteriously disappears, the donor is found murdered, and his daughter - Concordia's best friend - confesses to killing him.
Desperate for answers, Concordia unravels a 20-year-old secret, closely guarded by men now dead. But such secrets can be dangerous for the daughters left behind, including Concordia herself. Can she make sense of the mystery that has bound together their fates, before it's too late?
©2013 K.B. Owen (P)2015 K.B. Owen

Review:
Concordia is back to her normal duties as a lady professor but under a new Lady Principal who has been nicknamed “ogre” by the students. The woman clearly doesn’t like Concordia and takes away long time assignments and gives her secondary positions, such as moving her from director of the student play to assistant under a math teacher who has never had experience directing a performance. The continual insults from the Lady Principal take second place though to a theft of an Egyptian artifact recently donated to the museum. The donor is the father of Concordia’s best friend, Sophia. When he is found murdered the younger daughter is traumatized into silence by finding the bloody body. Not even the Police Detective believes Sophia when she confesses to the crime.

Concordia of course is intent on proving her friend innocent. She soon learns that the dead man had once been a partner of Concordia’s own father when they searched for artifacts in Egypt. Details that Concordia never knew and her mother continues to refuse to discuss. Instead, Concordia’s mother has gotten herself involved with a physic whose séance results in Concordia’s father speaking to her!

The Lady Principal is a character that you like to dislike, causing Concordia to seek help from the Dean and the President of the college. There is plenty of intrigue and multiple suspects as well as surprising twists. I enjoyed the friendship between Concordia and David which is continuing to grow, especially after a misunderstanding is cleared up.

This is the second story in the series and I recommend reading/listening to them in order to better know the supporting characters and the friendships and tensions that exist. I enjoyed this one even more than the first and it makes me want to hear more adventures/misadventures for Concordia. I recommend this to readers who enjoy character driven mystery.

Audio Notes: Becket Royce does another good job narrating this historical mystery. She manages the various voices with clear distinction. The narration enhanced my enjoyment of the story.

I received this audio book from the narrator for an honest review. This qualifies for my Audio Challenge and "U" in Alphabet Soup Challenge.

Audio Book Review: Deceitful Moon: Manny Williams Series, Book 2 by Rick Murcer

I enjoyed this fast-paced, well-plotted, suspenseful mystery that comes with a side of light banter to balance the gruesome deaths.

Deceitful Moon: Manny Williams Series, Book 2
Written by: Rick Murcer
Narrated by: DJ Holte

Length: 8 hrs and 10 mins
Unabridged Audiobook
Release Date:08-12-15
Publisher: Rick Murcer, LLC
Genre: Mystery Thriller
My Rating: 4.5 of 5.0

Publisher's Summary
Detective Manny Williams and his partner, Sophie Lee, are called to the scene of a disturbing and gruesome murder at Lansing's local adult playhouse, the White Kitty. The circumstances surrounding the murder rocket deeper into the bizarre as the forensic evidence reveals more questions than answers. As he begins his investigation, Manny is interrupted by a phone call that shakes his world. His nemesis, serial killer Dr. Fredrick Argyle, has killed again and sent the evidence to prove it. Argyle's heinous actions force Manny and Sophie back to the Caribbean. All the while the body count rises in his home city. Two serial killers. Each threatening to change his life forever. One succeeds.
©2011 Rick Murgittroyd (P)2015 Murcer Press, LLC

Review:
Manny is a dedicated, driven, workaholic police detective. He loves his wife and daughter but that doesn’t stop him from getting pulled away when he is deep in pursuit of a killer. He gets along well with his partner, Sophie, who, even though married, seems to flirt a bit - okay outrageously - especially with one of the FBI agents they have been working with. Manny has his own draw to resist in the form of a female FBI agent.

Manny and Sophie are just getting into the investigation of a local murder binge that appears to be targeting men of ill repute, known for hurting or mistreating women. Although the vigilante killer (or killers) may be ridding society of some real low life, still it’s murder. Before Manny gets deep into the forensics, where he likes to dig, he gets a call he doesn’t want to hear.

Another serial killer, and Manny’s nemesis, Dr. Fredrick Argyle, is on the killing path again and is baiting Manny to catch him. This guy is very brutal and creepy, reminding me of Hannibal Lecter.
Manny and his team speed off to the new crime scene where Dr. Argyle leaves a few mutilated bodies and warnings that Manny and his family and friends are not safe. Back home, Manny’s own boss is shot at point blank range leaving Manny another killer to track.

The story makes clear shifts between the murder investigations keeping the reader/listener keyed to gather the clues. The author skillfully hints at suspects that do not seem probable but one never quite knows what might cause someone to snap.

Although the plot deals with some gruesome murders, the author manages to maintain a certain lightness in the friendship of the characters and the depth of love among the family. The comedic banter seems natural as a release to ease the tensions of their gritty jobs. Mr. Murcer does a good job with each element: strong characters, skillfully plotted mysteries with red-herring clues and twists, and high levels of action and suspense. I really enjoyed the forensic details and mind thinking that Manny sorts through trying to get ahead of the killers.

The story is sprinkled with cursing, as might be expected with cops and killers, but, as far as I can recall, the author doesn’t use the worst of the words. I really enjoyed the fast-paced style and the strong, engaging protagonist. Although this can be read without having read the first book, it made me wish that I had read that one first. Also, this ends with open lines for new changes in the next book. I do recommend this book (and series) to those who enjoy good forensic details and can deal with some gritty murder scenes.

Audio Notes: DJ Holte does a really good job with the narration. He provides smooth transitions between distinct voices and he captures and portrays the range of emotions including love, humor, hatred, mania and more. The audio definitely enhanced my enjoyment of this reading experience.

I received this audio book from the narrator for an honest review. This qualifies for my 2016 Audio Challenge.

Audible Book Review: Unbroken by Laura Hillenbrand

This is an extraordinary story of a WWII hero – and it tells so much more.
Unbroken: A World War II Story of Survival, Resilience, and Redemption
Written by: Laura Hillenbrand
Narrated by: Edward Herrmann

Length: 14 hrs
Unabridged Audiobook
Release Date:11-16-10
Publisher: Random House Audio
Genre: Biography, Memoir
My Rating: 5.0 of 5.0

Publisher's Summary
On a May afternoon in 1943, an Army Air Forces bomber crashed into the Pacific Ocean and disappeared, leaving only a spray of debris and a slick of oil, gasoline, and blood.
Then, on the ocean surface, a face appeared. It was that of a young lieutenant, the plane's bombardier, who was struggling to a life raft and pulling himself aboard. So began one of the most extraordinary odysseys of the Second World War.
The lieutenant's name was Louis Zamperini. In boyhood, he'd been a cunning and incorrigible delinquent, breaking into houses, brawling, and fleeing his home to ride the rails. As a teenager, he had channeled his defiance into running, discovering a prodigious talent that had carried him to the Berlin Olympics and within sight of the four-minute mile. But when war had come, the athlete had become an airman, embarking on a journey that led to his doomed flight, a tiny raft, and a drift into the unknown.
Ahead of Zamperini lay thousands of miles of open ocean, leaping sharks, a foundering raft, thirst and starvation, enemy aircraft, and, beyond, a trial even greater. Driven to the limits of endurance, Zamperini would answer desperation with ingenuity; suffering with hope, resolve, and humor; brutality with rebellion. His fate, whether triumph or tragedy, would be suspended on the fraying wire of his will.
In her long-awaited new book, Laura Hillenbrand writes with the same rich and vivid narrative voice she displayed in Seabiscuit. Telling an unforgettable story of a man's journey into extremity, Unbroken is a testament to the resilience of the human mind, body, and spirit.
©2010 Laura Hillenbrand; 2010 Random House Audio

Review:
This is a biography/memoir portraying the remarkable life of Louis Zamperini. Zamperini was an  uncontrollable scamp of a boy. Although he exasperated his parents and sister, he was greatly loved. His older brother, Pete, was always trying to rein Louis in and direct his enthusiastic energy to better pursuits. Finally, Pete was able to encourage Louis to pour his energies into running. Louis became a running champion and did well at the German Olympics in 1936.

Zamperini was training for the next Olympics when America was drawn into WWII. Zamperini entered the aircorps and was deployed to the Pacific island of Funafuti where he served as a bombardier on a B-24 bomber named Super Man. Zamperini became good friends with the pilot,
"Phil" Phillips. The plane survived one remarkable enemy battle and returned with multiple bullet holes, putting it out of commission. Phil, Zamperini and their crew mates were sent on a rescue hunt in another plane that was known for mechanical problems. The plane had difficulties and Phil was forced to crash in the ocean. Eleven crew mates were killed or lost, leaving only three survivors, Phil, Louis and another young man, Mac.

The story follows their 47-day struggle to survive at sea without food and fresh water. Only Louis and Phil make it to land where they become Japanese prisoners of war under brutal and cruel wardens.

The story is remarkable and brings out a wide range of emotions. The portrayal of the struggle at sea is a frightening tale. The description of the P.O.W. experience is horrifying and heart wrenching. I have heard of these horrors and watched one or two movies. There is no way to read/listen to the abuses and atrocities without cringing. The author presents societal and psychological backgrounds/reasons to explain the treatment. It is still hard to understand, much less swallow.

The summary of this story is stated in the title: “Unbroken”. It made me cry, cringe and smile. It is well researched, richly written and shares the history of a remarkable man and several of his friends. I was impressed with how Zamperini came through the trials and how God used him. I recommend this to any reader who needs a story of courage, strength and forgiveness. Also recommended to any reader who wants to remember the horrors of war and hope that they never occur again.

Audio Notes: Edward Herrmann does a beautiful job with the narration. He shares different accents and voices but, even more impressively, he shares the intensity of the emotions that are portrayed by the story. The narration definitely contributed to the experience of the story for me.

I pulled this from my Audible TBR shelf. It qualifies for Mount TBR Challenge, Audio Challenge and "U" in Alphabet Challenge.

Audible Book Review: This Present Darkness by Frank Peretti

This is a life-changing story of spiritual warfare.
This Present Darkness
Written by: Frank Peretti
Narrated by: Jack Sondericker

Length: 17 hrs and 25 mins
Unabridged Audiobook
Release Date:06-30-08
Publisher: Books in Motion
Genre: Religious, Inspirational, Suspense
My Rating: 4.25 of 5.0

Publisher's Summary
A small town newspaper editor and a local minister uncover a web of conspiracy while an unseen battle between the angels of good and evil takes place in the town of Ashton.
©1986 Frank Peretti; (P)2005 Books in Motion

Review:
Ashton is a small college community that is being overtaken by proponents of a belief in ‘Universal Consciousness’. This society group promotes meditation that allows people to open themselves to demons disguised as spirit guides. The town leaders including the mayor, the sheriff, a church pastor and college trustees, are all involved in corruption that pushes non-conforming people out of their jobs and out of town. But there are two new men in town, unknown to each other who are about to make a difference.

Marshall is a big city newsman who bought the local newspaper so he could semi-retire. He is still committed to quality news and it isn’t long before he begins to wonder what is going on when his attractive and effective reporter is arrested as a hooker. As they begin to investigate the ‘misunderstanding and mistaken identity’ they realize that they are getting different stories and there is a lot of tension in the town.

At another end of town, Henry Busche is the new Pastor of a small community church. He is insisting on following the Bible even in the face of forceful opposition by wealthy, powerful and influential members in the congregation.

Angels begin to gather in the town to give strength to Pastor Busche and his small but ardent congregation. Although the angels are gathering, they are not permitted to take action until certain events take place. Then they have to hope that their ranks, and the prayer coverage of the faithful, will be enough to defeat the demon hordes who have been planning to overtake the college and the town.

The author presents a clear picture of the battle of good and evil wrapped in a suspenseful story. Demons whisper in the ears of men until they work their way into control. On the other side are the faithful remnant who provide prayer support for the angels in the heavenly battle. I had never truly pictured spiritual warfare this clearly until I read this book in the 1980s. Reading this completely changed my prayer life. As I started listening to the story this time, I again felt the strength and powerful awe of the message. I know several of the ladies in the book club had trouble getting into the book but others felt the same excitement that I felt. I highly recommend this book, and the sequel, Piercing the Darkness, to anyone who has a desire to visualize spiritual warfare.

Audio Notes: The character voices are well done by Jack Sondericker. Sadly, the production sounded like it was inside a metal room with an echo. Although that was initially distracting, I pushed past it and still enjoyed the narration.

I have not read this since the late 1980s. We read this for our Ladies' Book Club. Our August meeting was postponed so we won’t be discussing this until September. I purchased this in 2012 so it qualifies for Mount TBR Challenge as well as my Audio Challenge.

Audible Book Review: For Honor We Stand: Man of War, Book 2 by H. Paul Honsinger

I enjoy the action and smart characters in this space military series.
For Honor We Stand: Man of War, Book 2
Written by: H. Paul Honsinger
Narrated by: Ray Chase

Length: 14 hrs and 37 mins
Series: Man of War, Book 2
Unabridged Audiobook
Release Date:03-11-14
Publisher: Brilliance Audio
Genre: Sci Fi, Military Space Opera
My Rating: 4.5 of 5.0

Publisher's Summary
In 2315, the Earth Union is losing a 30-year-long war with the Krag Hegemony.
Having encountered the Krag before, Space Commander Max Robicheaux now faces daunting challenges aboard the USS Cumberland: The dangers from the enemy without…and clashes with crew and superiors within.
Meanwhile, Doctor Sahin receives a coded message summoning him to a secret meeting which aims to forge an alliance that could change the balance of power in Known Space. But first, he must circumvent the fighter ships and heavily armed troops of the traitorous emir bent on killing him before he reaches the negotiating table.
Both men must call upon their developing skills and growing friendship to bear the burden of carrying between the Krag Hegemony and the Earth Union a fateful ultimatum and the shocking answer: An answer that could spell eternal slavery, or even extinction, for all humankind.
The second novel in the Man of War series, For Honor We Stand continues the galactic naval adventures of Robicheaux and Sahin.
©2013 H. Paul Honsinger (P)2013 Brilliance Audio, all rights reserved.

Review:
Space Commander Max is continuing to face danger in this action packed series. Max has to think - on his feet in tight circumstances and with his sly cunning - in order to prevail in the face of being outnumbered and outgunned by the Krag, a vicious reptilian enemy. The Krag, with their superior technology and weapons, continue to seek annihilation of inferior species.

The ship doctor, Doctor Sabin, receives a cryptic message calling him to a clandestine meeting. Max and Sabin are then ordered to proceed as an ambassador to negotiate a new alliance. Although the kingdom has long said they would remain neutral they are beginning to recognize that the Krag are a threat to all human species, including their own. The new leader seeks an alliance but there is a traitorous rival power who has set out to block any alliance. This is just one more obstacle for Max to overcome…or maybe ram his way through to pursue mission goals.

Max’s ship, the Cumberland, fresh from repairs, receives orders for a new mission. Not into battle this time but as an escort. And more problematic, Max isn’t the commander of the mission. Instead he and another battle escort ship have to take orders from a pompous leader who has never served in battle. Max is sure that the plans of this unskilled leader spell disaster for the mission and he and his new friend, the other escort captain, may have to risk their careers if they want to safely complete the mission.

Max’s antics gain respect even from the fearsome Krag. There are fascinating interactions with the Krag which give depths to their motivations and lead to an intense ending moment for this book.

While all of the battle action continues, the author shares crew dynamics as they continue to improve in their training. The author does a wonderful job showing the importance of respect and caring that make the crew successful under Max. I love the dialogue between Max and Sabin (see screen shot below) and I love how Max cares for and interacts with the young members of the crew. The author does a great job sharing insight to Max's past through some of this interaction.

This series offers a full range of elements: wonderful action, engaging war and battle tactics, creative nations and heartwarming crew relationships. In addition to all of that I like the prose and phrasing that you might not expect in a military space story. I will definitely be getting book three for more wonderful entertainment.

Audio Notes: Ray Chase does a great job of narrating the touch of snark as well as the ingenious smarts of Max and the rest of his crew. He also successfully portrays the other species and makes the listening flow with excitement.

This is from my Audible TBR Library (credit pick in 2015). It qualifies for my Audio Challenge and “F” in Alphabet Soup Challenge.

A sample of dialogue between Max and Doctor Sabin:

Audible Book Review: Burning Nation: Book 2 of Divided We Fall by Trent Reedy

Chilling, scary and sad. This is an intense sequel from my own Audible credits (2016).

Burning Nation: Book 2 of Divided We Fall
Written by: Trent Reedy
Narrated by: Andrew Eiden


Length: 12 hrs and 29 mins
Series: Divided We Fall, Book 2
Unabridged Audiobook
Release Date:06-09-15
Publisher: Scholastic Audio
Genre: Sci Fi, Fantasy, YA
My Rating: 4.0 of 5.0

Publisher's Summary
In this wrenching sequel to Divided We Fall, Danny and friends fight to defend Idaho against a federal takeover and the ravages of a Burning Nation. At the end of Divided We Fall, Danny Wright's beloved Idaho had been invaded by the federal government, their electricity shut off, their rights suspended. Danny goes into hiding with his friends in order to remain free. But after the state declares itself a Republic, Idaho rises to fight in a second American civil war, and Danny is right in the center of the action, running guerrilla missions with his fellow soldiers to break the federal occupation. Yet what at first seems like a straightforward battle against governmental repression quickly grows more complicated, as more states secede, more people die, and Danny discovers the true nature of some of his new allies.
Chilling, powerful, and all too plausible, Burning Nation confirms Trent Reedy's place as a provocative new voice in YA fiction.
©2015 Trent Reedy (P)2015 Scholastic Inc.

Review:
Danny and his friends are on the run and hiding from the federal government. The Idaho governor and officials have declared Idaho an independent Republic, plunging the state into a civil war. Danny’s small community of Freedom Lake has been occupied by federal troops making it even harder to get food and supplies. After a time of sitting in a bunker hiding, the crew decides to begin covert guerrilla attacks.

Danny unfortunately gets his friend Becca involved and then his own girlfriend, JoBell, gets injured when another rebel group steps in to challenge the feds. Danny isn’t sure who this other group is although there has been some buzz on the radio. Eventually the rebel groups bring Danny and his friends into their camp but Danny isn’t sure he agrees with all of their methods.

Meanwhile matters become more complicated politically as other states secede and the federal forces are spread over more fronts. Soon the awful dilemma is brought to the forefront when state troops have to meet neighbors who may be in the federal troops.

As in any civil war situation there is much to be sad about in this book. Danny and his friends are very young and will no longer have a normal high school or college life. Friends will end up on opposing sides and even enemies might be secret friends or vice versa. Although the story focuses on the local group there are larger issues covered as well. The good and bad of war and the divisions of ideology are awful to contemplate. Many of the characters are just teens so they are impulsive which I find difficult to deal with even though it is certainly realistic. I like the social media reports that are added to bring in news bits.

There is plenty of action to keep the story moving quickly. There is violence of course and some foul language. This book brings Danny to a new crisis and it is clear there is more to come. There is a final book in the trilogy but it is not available on audio yet. Although I found this engaging I am not sure why it is getting such high ratings. Perhaps I didn't embrace it as much because I cringe at the youth and the losses… which means the realism is high… so maybe it deserves some high ratings.

Audio Notes: Andrew Eiden does a very good job with the narration and emotions. Additionally, there is a nature presentation of news blurbs that greatly enhances the book experience for me. I will definitely wait for the Audible version of the final book.

This is an intense sequel I picked up with Audible credits this year. It does qualify for my Audio Challenge.

Audible Book Review: Daemon by Daniel Suarez

This is a very intense AI suspense/mystery - well done!
Daemon
Written by: Daniel Suarez
Narrated by: Jeff Gurner

Length: 15 hrs and 57 mins
Series: Daemon, Book 1
Unabridged Audiobook
Release Date:01-08-09
Publisher: Penguin Audio
Genre: Sci Fi, Techno-Thriller
My Rating: 4.5 of 5.0

Publisher's Summary
Technology controls almost everything in our modern-day world, from remote entry on our cars to access to our homes, from the flight controls of our airplanes to the movements of the entire world economy. Thousands of autonomous computer programs, or daemons, make our networked world possible, running constantly in the background of our lives, trafficking e-mail, transferring money, and monitoring power grids. For the most part, daemons are benign, but the same can't always be said for the people who design them.
Matthew Sobol was a legendary computer game designer - the architect behind half-a-dozen popular online games. His premature death depressed both gamers and his company's stock price. But Sobol's fans aren't the only ones to note his passing. When his obituary is posted online, a previously dormant daemon activates, initiating a chain of events intended to unravel the fabric of our hyper-efficient, interconnected world. With Sobol's secrets buried along with him, and as new layers of his daemon are unleashed at every turn, it's up to an unlikely alliance to decipher his intricate plans and wrest the world from the grasp of a nameless, faceless enemy - or learn to live in a society in which we are no longer in control. . . .
Computer technology expert Daniel Suarez blends haunting high-tech realism with gripping suspense in an authentic, complex thriller in the tradition of Michael Crichton, Neal Stephenson, and William Gibson.
©2009 Daniel Suarez; (P)2009 Penguin Audio

Review:
Matthew Sobol, a legendary computer game designer has died of cancer. Physically he is gone, but he is still around – in his computer programs – especially one special program he calls Daemon. The computer entity contacts Detective Pete Sebeck directly leading him to further victims. Although the FBI takes over the cases they don’t agree with Pete who is the only investigator inclined to believe that the killer is Sobol through his computer program, Daemon.


This is a wonderful mystery --- not fully solved and not really a happy ending. There is plenty of action from different views. The early part of the book follows the investigations with Pete until the computer program manipulates him into major trouble. The story also picks up other characters who are contacted and engaged by - to them - an unknown entity. Some accept the new employer willingly but others are strong-armed with no choice. The story is a bit confusing as not all povs are fully clarified. This might require a re-listen… if it was a movie, it would be one to watch more than once to pick up on the threads.

Although I work well with computers, I do not have any real technical training and I am not a gamer. I may not have fully grasped all the computer technicalities but I was able to follow the gist. The control that Daemon exercises through the internet on various companies and agencies is truly scary. The goal is initiate a social agenda through an intricate design created, and left behind, by Sobol. I enjoyed the writing and found the whole idea fascinating. I enjoyed the mystery elements too. I just realized there is a sequel and I will be adding that to my Audible library. I recommend this book to sci fi buffs who enjoy mystery and AI intrigue.

Audio Notes: Jeff Gurner is the primary narrator and he does an excellent job. There is also wonderful full performance with female voices and sound effects that enrich the listen. The audio is really wonderful and I recommend it for those who love a good audio.

This AI suspense/mystery was from my own Audible shelf from 2012. This qualifies for TBR, Audio Challenge and "D" in Alphabet Soup Challenge.

Audible Book Review: Enforcing Home: The Survivalist Series, Book 6 by A. American

I started this sixth book in the series and although calmer than prior books, I found it hard to put down.

Enforcing Home: The Survivalist Series, Book 6

Written by: A. American

Narrated by: Duke Fontaine

Length: 11 hrs and 10 mins

Series: Survivalist, Book 6

Unabridged Audiobook

Release Date:01-19-16

Publisher: Podium Publishing

Genre: Post Apocalyptic, Sci Fi

My Rating: 4.25 of 5.0

Publisher's Summary
Morgan has managed to get through a lot. Having made it back to his family and dealt with the issues of unscrupulous neighbors, he then had to deal with the presence of the federal government and their nefarious activities. But with the help of his close-knit group he prevailed. Life is settling into a familiar routine. And with the help of the US Army, they are starting to rebuild their community. But just when Morgan thinks things are assuming some kind of normal, another surprise lands in his lap. He's made sheriff.
Harkening back to a time when law enforcement was a local face in the community, Morgan is forced to step up and be that face, much to his chagrin. With the help of Thad, Danny, and the rest of the crew, he accepts the challenge and tries to make a positive impact. But he's in for yet another surprise. New foes will arise, and old ones will return to conspire to destroy his efforts.
Morgan's group will suffer loss, injury, and constant assault. His new position has made him a target as well as those he loves. The peace and tranquility that the group has fought so hard for will continue to elude them. The fight, as Morgan soon learns, is just beginning.
©2015 A. American (P)2016 Podium Publishing

Review:
Morgan is now sheriff of his community and the local town. He isn’t thrilled but agreed to accept the responsibilities with several of his friends as deputies. His own community is experiencing a time of rebuilding and peace but that doesn’t last. There are many who are hungry and unrest is spreading especially as bullies try to take from others by force. These are local problems, but not the worst Morgan has to deal with. Stragglers with children who are coughing badly pass outside the neighborhood gates. Some of the community children do not realize there may be danger playing with these sickly waifs.

Morgan’s friends learn that the corrupt federal DHS forces never made it to the army base where they were being sent. Instead they escaped and are building forces with plans to eliminate Morgan, Sarge and the rest of the ‘resisters’. A stranger wander in and, although it is not clear if he can be trusted, he slowly becomes part of the group.

Fortunately, Sarge and Morgan have friends in high places. They are able to get the supplies for a field hospital flown in as well as getting some heavy power equipment that will be useful as the skirmishes with the DHS scoundrels intensify.

I was glad to be back with the familiar characters and I was pulled right into the story. The author addresses issues relating to the society reorganization as well as dangers of disease and lawlessness. This episode moves forward with daily concerns and not all the action is in fighting… there is enough of that too to keep things interesting. There are moments of humor and almost happiness as the community and nearby town look to reestablish a firm footing.  But Morgan becomes more of a target especially for the oncoming threat of a major attack by the DHS forces.

There was a bit more male crudeness and some rather brutal torture in this book. There was also some repetition but it didn't have a noticeable impact on my enjoyment. I found this engaging and I look forward to more action in this series.

Audio Notes: Duke Fontaine has certainly become the voice of these characters for me. His clear narration enhances the engagement in the stories and makes this a fast listen.

My prior reviews in the series:
Book 1, Going Home
Book 2, Surviving Home
Book 3, Escaping Home
Book 4, Forsaking Home
Book 5, Resurrecting Home

This was a 2016 selection for my own Audible library.

Audio Book Review: The Christmas Kitten: A Polly Parrett Pet-Sitter Cozy Murder Mystery, Book 2 by Liz Dodwell

This is a delightful, quick cozy with warm characters, including four legged varieties.
The Christmas Kitten: A Polly Parrett Pet-Sitter Cozy Murder Mystery, Book 2
Written by: Liz Dodwell
Narrated by: Jennifer Fournier

Length: 2 hrs and 33 mins
Series: Polly Parrett, Book 2
Unabridged Audiobook
Release Date:05-06-16
Publisher: Mix Books, LLC
Genre: Cozy Mystery
My Rating: 4.25 of 5.0

Publisher's Summary
Polly Parrett finds herself in the midst of another murder mystery. This time it involves two little girls, a wicked stepmother, and a missing father. Oh, and Christmas is almost here.
It all begins with a mysterious gift box that’s left on Polly's doorstep. Along the way she encounters problems with her pet-sitting customers and her arch nemesis, Britney Harris, who has her eye on Polly's boyfriend Tyler. An Open House is planned at Welcome Home, the residential home Polly and her mom have created to provide a safe haven for homeless military veterans and their pets. It's all go in Polly's world, but with a killer on the loose and two children in need of her help, she'll do anything she can to keep everyone safe.
Book 2 of the Polly Parrett Pet-Sitter series.
©2015 Liz Dodwell (P)2016 Liz Dodwell

Review:
Polly Parrett has a lovely business as a pet-sitter in Mallowapple, Maine. As Christmas draws near she is busy taking care of pets and helping her mother plan an Open House for their new venture, Welcome Home, a residential home created as a safe haven for homeless military veterans and their pets.

Polly is only a little surprised to find a rescue kitten left on her doorstep. The greater surprise is the expensive bracelet around the kitten’s neck. The new kitten is quickly adopted by one of Polly’s dogs (which is adorable).

Polly brings the kitten to her mother at Welcome Home where two young girls have just been discovered sheltering in the barn. The girl’s father is away in the service while they have been left with their mean stepmother. When a murder is reported, Polly and her lawyer boyfriend, Tyler, begin to investigate the mystery of the necklace, the runaway children and the murder.

This is light and fun listening with wonderful pets to share in the warmth of the holiday season. I loved the animals and the concept of the shelter for the vets with pets. The mystery is fully developed for a short work. Polly is a lively, likeable character and I am sure I would enjoy more of her adventures.

This is a nice cozy mystery for all ages. I especially recommend it to cozy fans who like animals. It may be set at Christmas time but it is a warm story for any time of year.

Audio Notes: Jennifer Fournier does a charming job with the narration. It is light and easy and brings appropriate emotions to the listener. The audio added to my enjoyment of the story.

I received this audio title from the author through AudioBook Boom. This qualifies for my Audio Book Challenge.

Audio Book Review: Desolation by M.L. Banner

This is an engaging character driven, post-apocalyptic scenario, pitting good and evil.

Desolation
Written by: M.L. Banner
Narrated by: Mikael Naramore

Length: 8 hrs and 37 mins
Unabridged Audiobook
Release Date:12-08-15
Publisher: Toes in the Water Publishing, LLC
Genre: Post Apocalyptic, Sci Fi
My Rating: 4.25 of 5.0

Publisher's Summary
A world devastated: a sky filled with magical auroras at night and deadly radiation during the day; technology all but gone; hundreds of millions dead by fire, starvation, disease, and violence. The survivors will have to face their own desolation.
Three groups struggle to endure and hold onto what little they have, while others will do anything to take it all. On a beach in Mexico, a small town in Wyoming, and a rural ranch in Illinois, epic battles between good and evil will be fought. Winners will have to face forces of nature never seen before.
But, there is a dim light on the horizon. A 150-year-old secret may lead the lucky few to a place that holds the promise of a new future, unless the sun doesn't set on humanity first.
This is the stunning follow-up to the #1 Amazon best seller Stone Age.
©2014 Toes in the Water Publishing, LLC (P)2015 Toes in the Water Publishing, LLC

Review:
A solar flare has devastated the world as we know it. Electronic technology is gone, the cities are in flames and conductive surfaces, such as water, continue to give off electrocuting charges. Many are dying from starvation and disease, not to mention violence as people sink to thievery and worse trying to protect themselves and obtain food for their families.

Maxwell Thomas is a wealthy man who was prepared for the disaster. He had several homes and escape plans. He even knows of a secret community, Cicada, where the scientists were to gather for survival. Unfortunately Max has been ‘commandeered’ by a drug cartel with some vicious members. He must escape and get back to Bill and Lisa King in a resort community in Mexico.

Bill and Lisa have supplies thanks to their good friend, Max. They are willing to help others in their community until neighbors try to take the supplies by force.

Far away, in Illinois, “the Teacher” leads a religious group of followers. He has gathered an army of men to protect him and provide the basic needs of shelter, food and water for the crowd that follows. Since their supply is limited they conscript the followers to work, including attacking communities along their path to fill the needs of the cult.

College student, Darla King and her younger brother, Danny are walking away from the fires of Chicago, trying to get to their grandparents’ home in Michigan. It is a dangerous world to be traveling as wicked men are willing to rape and murder and steal the resources that are found along the way. After several attacks and difficult escapes, Darla and Danny stumble into the cult crowd. Darla quickly learns that crowds are not always safe.

Steve Parkington, Darla’s boy interest, and his father have crashed in their small plane. They find themselves with a small group of survivors on a well-stocked and protected ranch, known as Wright ranch.

In Nebraska, Maggie, an astronaut and scientist, becomes the sole survivor of a space capsule crash. Now she must fend for herself in a hot and hostile world. Along the way she will rescue and be aided by another scientist who is traveling by bicycle to get to Cicada.

I was quickly engaged by the good characters and their battle against the evil forces. I liked the excellent story telling writing style which pulled me in and made me care about the characters. The author shifts among the scenes until the people and groups converge.There seemed to be a few loose ends but I still was engaged and enjoyed the tale.

I did not realize this was a second book in a series until I started it. I wish I had read/listened to them in order but still this was good but I could tell that I missed some character build up as well as the initial disaster. I will want to pick up the first book and I am also interested in the Cicada series that follows these events even if it is set years later.

Audio Notes: Mikael Naramore does a good job with the various voices and the emotional energy of the story.  He also delivers the narrative with strong, appropriate pacing. The narration made this an easy and engaging listen, enhancing the story.

I received this audio from the publisher through Audiobook Jukebox.