Audible Book Review: The Pursuit of God by A.W. Tozer

This is a wonderful classic to help direct my life focus toward God.
The Pursuit of God
Written by: A. W. Tozer
Narrated by: Mark Moseley

Length: 3 hrs and 17 mins
Unabridged Audiobook
Release Date:02-07-12
Publisher: Audible Studios
Genre: Christian, Classic, Religion & Spirituality, Theology
My Rating: 5.0 of 5.0

Publisher's Summary
During a train trip from Chicago to Texas in the late 1940s, A.W. Tozer began to write The Pursuit of God. He wrote all night, and when the train arrived at his destination, the rough draft was done. The depth of this book has made it an enduring favorite.
(P)2012 Audible, Inc.

Review:
This work confirms the other studies I have been enjoying. I have been participating in a small group study at church called Freedom Course. Its goal is to help the student to discern the difference between living in the tree of knowledge, which brings death, or living in the tree of life that brings freedom. I thought that this audio book would compliment the group study and my Bible reading and it certainly does.

The message is not new. It is Biblically based and although it was written by Tozer in the late 1940s, it is still sound teaching today. Tozer states there may be many who call themselves believers and Christians but there are really only a small group who pursue God. It is all around us… we are busy living our lives, raising our families, and doing our jobs. There is nothing wrong with that, but too often we forget the first priority which is to live our lifes, in all activities, as God directs. We need to learn to remove the excesses and minimize distractions of this world. This book goes through short chapters covering distinct areas in our lives that need to change direction to come into line with God’s will.

This classic message exhorts a deeper and closer walk with God. It is a work that I suspect I could listen to several times a year and benefit each time. I recommend this to seekers and to Christians serious enough to truly pursue God and a life directed in His will.

Audio Notes: Mark Moseley narrates the teaching and I enjoyed his direct reading which matched the appropriate emphasis intended by the author. An excellent job of delivery that enhanced the book experience for me.

 This is available for free in ebook HERE.

This is from my Audible TBR shelves (2012). It qualifies for Mount TBR and Audiobook Challenge.

Audible Book Review: Into the Black: Odyssey One by Evan Currie

This is an engaging first contact, space military adventure.
Into the Black: Odyssey One
Written by: Evan Currie
Narrated by: Benjamin L. Darcie

Length: 14 hrs and 55 mins
Series: Odyssey One, Book 1
Unabridged Audiobook
Release Date:03-27-12
Publisher: Brilliance Audio
Genre: Space Opera, Military Action
My Rating: 4.25 of 5.0

Publisher's Summary
Beyond the confines of our small world, far from the glow of our star, lie a galaxy and universe much larger and more varied than anyone on Earth can possibly imagine. For the new NAC spacecraft Odyssey and her crew, the unimaginable facets of this untouched world are about to become reality. The Odyssey's maiden voyage is an epic adventure destined to make history.
Captain Eric Weston and his crew encounter horrors, wonders, monsters, and people; all of which will test their resolve, challenge their abilities, and put in sharp relief what is necessary to be a hero.
A first-rate military-science-fiction epic that combines old-school space opera and modern storytelling, Into the Black: Odyssey One is a riveting, exhilarating adventure with vivid details, rich mythology, and relentless pacing.
©2012 Evan Currie (P)2012 Brilliance Audio, Inc.

Review:
The Odyssey is the first spacecraft sent out from earth with a crew culled from the best of the best. They were really on a test mission, intended to see what the Odyssey can manage and do a little exploring beyond the Solar System. They didn’t plan upon warping into the debris of a devastating battle…and rescuing a survivor. Now they know there are other human races in the universe… and other unknown, and apparently brutal, alien beings.

Captain Weston is new to the position of North American Confederation (NAC) spaceship captain but he is a battle experienced pilot having led the legendary Archangel Flight Group, the specialized fighter units. Weston tries to return their rescued passenger to her nearest planet world only to find an unimaginable situation. Now he must decide if he jumps out of this galaxy to return home or flies into a battle that isn’t their business… or is it?

The characters are likeable and I wasn’t bothered by some familiarity among the ranks that wouldn’t be expected in a real military protocols. The other galaxy human characters have different backgrounds, views and technology that make the interaction interesting. The space travel tachyon (dissolving and restoring particles) is creepy and pretty disturbing, even to the characters. It wasn’t quite clear to me if the alien species is tech or ‘insect’ but their behaviors were engaging, if devastating.

The story moves at a good pace with action and mystery pulling my interest. I admit I spent a couple of nights listening later than I should. I recommend this as a fun, action packed ride to readers who like space opera and first contact genre.

Audio Notes: Benjamin L. Darcie does a nice job with the narration. He presents varied voices and captures the feel of the different characters. The narration moves at a good pace and enhanced my enjoyment of the story.

I picked this from my Audible TBR shelf for Mount TBR, Audiobook Challenge, and "I" in my Alphabet Challenge.

Book Review: The Detective: A Nathan McNamara Story (The Soul Summoner) by Elicia Hyder

I enjoyed this character in The Soul Summoner and enjoyed this additional background on him.

The Detective: A Nathan McNamara Story (The Soul Summoner)
by Elicia Hyder

File Size: 3191 KB
Print Length: 149 pages
Publisher: Inkwell & Quill, LLC (October 29, 2015)
ASIN: B017DSORBE
Genre: Police Procedures
My Rating: 4.25 of 5.0

Robbery, arson, murder...and the one night stand that just won't end.
With eleven missing women to find and six high-profile burglary cases to solve, the last thing Detective Nathan McNamara needs in his life is one more complication. And that’s exactly what his recent one-night stand is becoming—complicated. With his heinous lieutenant breathing down his neck for answers and his accidental girlfriend dropping hints for a commitment, Nathan is realizing that his career and his bachelor status are both on the line.
When the burglary cases suddenly escalate to homicide, Nathan must put everything else aside to stop the killer. But this is easier said than done when the blonde from the bar repeatedly shows up at his doorstep and enlists his own mother against him. Now he’s more convinced than ever that his job hangs in the balance and that the Surgeon General’s warning on the whiskey bottle should include something about women.
***Detective Nathan McNamara is one of the leading men in The Soul Summoner Series. Book One, The Soul Summoner (a full-length novel), focuses on the investigation of the eleven missing girls. Chronologically, this novella happens before the series begins, but it is a standalone and doesn't have to be read in order.***

Review:
I met the very attractive (okay, -- "yummy" is a better description) Detective Nathan McNamara in The Soul Summoner. This short story fills in his history and how he got involved with Shannon, his stalking girlfriend in the next book.

Nate is ducking his unpleasant superior while pursuing the investigation of a rash of robberies. The criminals left a victim at one of the scenes, turning the case into a homicide investigation. Nate is relentless in his efforts despite the negative attitude of his lieutenant. In his spare time Nate is working on a case with eleven missing women. This case is a special burden for him.

I enjoyed Nate’s family background and input. I didn’t enjoy his ‘accidental’ relationship with Shannon. He initially picks her up at a bar and then takes advantage of the open invitation. Shannon follows him to his town, calls his mother to make connections and repeatedly calls him even as he makes it clear he has work to do. Instead of putting a halt to the eager chase he lets her carry on, and I didn’t like that.

I did like how Nate worked the case and I like the direct writing style. Written in first person from Nate’s view gives it a hands-on approach. I think I would have liked to have read this before The Soul Summoner but I still liked it well enough. This does not have the paranormal elements that show up in the rest of the series. I want to continue with book 2, The Siren, and I recommend these be read in order.

I received this title through InstaFreebies. It qualifies for my TBR Challenge.

Audible Book Review: Avenging Home: The Survivalist Series, Book 7

This is a good enough continuation of the stories to keep the series moving forward.
Avenging Home: The Survivalist Series, Book 7
Written by: A. American
Narrated by: Duke Fontaine

Length: 10 hrs and 7 mins
Series: Survivalist, Book 7
Unabridged Audiobook
Release Date:06-14-16
Publisher: Podium Publishing
Genre: Post Apocalyptic, Survival
My Rating: 3.75 of 5.0

Publisher's Summary
In Enforcing Home, Morgan and his group suffered some loss. They discovered their old foes weren't gone, as they'd thought. Not only were they not gone, but they were also stronger than before. Morgan would have to deal with this threat while at the same time trying to restore some sort of quality of life to his community.
But this wasn't going to be easy. With the bombing at the market and the wounding of his daughter, Taylor, it became all too clear to Morgan that he was once again in a fight for the lives of those who mattered most to him. Taylor was injured and would need care for some time. It wouldn't be easy. Added to that was the realization that he would have to deal with second-guessing himself. Was it his fault that she was now hurt?
In Avenging Home, we see how this long-running battle between Morgan's people and their number one nemesis plays out. While Morgan thinks this is the biggest threat they face, there are things on the horizon he cannot yet see that are going to dwarf these problems.
Morgan has lived in a vacuum. He's had little information about the outside world. While he's used radios to listen to what he can, there's been precious little real information. But now he's found what he believes to be a reliable source and knows when and where to listen. But is it valid? Or is it simply propaganda? News and information can be powerful tools, but they must always be taken in context to make an educated decision. And the challenge is that there's only one source. When you have to make decisions that mean the difference between life and death, the process becomes even more critical.
So we'll follow Morgan and his tightly knit group as they are once again in the fight. Will they finally defeat the federal thugs in their backyard? And, more importantly, what will be the cost?
©2016 A. American (P)2016 Podium Publishing

Review:
I enjoyed listening to the latest confrontations in this series although I didn’t find it as good as some of the earlier books. This one seemed to have a little shallower focus on the characters while preparing for a showdown with the very nasty federal opposition. The books really should be read in sequence to know the characters.

The local town community is still seeking leadership from ‘Sheriff” Morgan. Morgan meets new suppliers in the market, gathers engineers to work on the power plant, recruits workers for the community garden and prepares his family and friends for a shoot-out. Meanwhile he must deal with captured enemies as well as drunken murderers and local thieves. Morgan doesn’t want to be judge, jury, sentencer and executioner… but someone has to do the hard jobs. He is seeking someone to serve as a judge at least for sentencing if not for fact finding as mostly the facts are clear when the culprits are caught in the act. Sadly, the man who steps forward for the job is just not the right person and he and his guards have to be dealt with firmly.

There are the usual antics from Sarge and his sometimes infantile and trigger-happy army guys, Mike and Ted. This repeated some of the male crudeness and of course violence considering the battle that occurs. Other characters add their part -- humor, determination, fear, revenge and even romance -- to the story. There were more survival tips shared, although maybe not as many as earlier books. I guess the help from the local military and the powers in high places really gives Morgan's neighborhood an edge but I couldn't help feeling that things were just a bit too easy going in the town.

Morgan catches a radio broadcast that brings disturbing news. They can’t tell if it is true, a hoax or propaganda, but it is scary if real. This book does a good job of continuing the story, wrapping up one phase and introducing a new conflict for future books. I hope the next book has a little more depth to it.

Audio Notes: Duke Fontaine does his usual solid narration of these characters. It just seemed to me that even he didn't have quite the same enthusiasm for this episode. Or maybe that was me projecting. I do enjoy listening to these though as they move well in audio.

My prior reviews in the series:
Book 1, Going Home My rating 4.5
Book 2, Surviving Home My rating 4.5
Book 3, Escaping Home My rating 4.25
Book 4, Forsaking Home My rating 4.25
Book 5, Resurrecting Home My rating 4.0
Book 6, Enforcing Home My rating 4.25

I am working on my Audio, TBR and Alphabet Challenges. This is a series I like and "A" title.

Audible Book Review: The Zoo at the Edge of the World by Eric Kahn Gale

This is surprisingly engaging and thought provoking.

The Zoo at the Edge of the World

Written by: Eric Kahn Gale

Narrated by: Julian Elfer

Length: 4 hrs and 44 mins

Unabridged Audiobook

Release Date:03-03-15

Publisher: Recorded Books

Genre: Middle Grade

My Rating: 4.5 of 5.0

Publisher's Summary
Marlin is not slow or mute; he is a stutterer, and that makes it impossible for him to convince people otherwise. He is also a Rackham: the youngest son of the world-famous explorer Roland Rackham, who is the owner and proprietor of the Zoo at the Edge of the World, a resort where the well to do from all over the world can come to experience the last bit of the wild left in the world at the end of the nineteenth century.
In order to impress a powerful duke who comes to visit the zoo, Marlin's father ventures into the jungle and brings back a mysterious black jaguar, now the only one in captivity. Everyone is terrified of the jaguar, including Marlin - until one night when the jaguar confers upon him a powerful gift. Soon Marlin finds himself with a difficult choice to make and, finally, something to say. If only he can figure out how to say it.
©2014 Eric Kahn Gale (P)2015 Recorded Books

Review:
Marlin is a bright 11-12 year-old boy but people don’t realize it because he is an extreme stutterer. He can talk to animals when no human is around, but it is painful for him to try to speak to humans. At least his father accepts his difficulty, unlike his older brother, Tim, who taunts him and does everything to bully him.

The two boys are sons of Roland Rackham, a famous explorer who has established the Zoo at the Edge of the World resort. The zoo contains many dangerous jungle species behind cages made to keep the animals in but allow the wealthy guests to see them mostly in their habitat. Rackham struggles to keep the resort afloat financially although he won’t let anyone else know of his financial troubles. He has been trying to buy more land on the edge of British Guiana forest rather than allow sugar planters to take over and destroy the wild. One of his competitors for land is an old English ‘friend’, a wealthy duke, who is visiting the resort with his family. The duke’s real goal is to find a way to discredit Rackham and his business.

Rackham captures a black Jaguar and sets him in a cage to be a special exhibit. Everyone is afraid of the ‘man-eater’ cat. Marlin discovers the mysterious Jaguar is wise and magical. Jaguar bestows a special power on Marlin. The gift alone would change Marlin’s life but it also creates a special bond with the Jaguar. Rackham decides to create a one of a kind spectacle by pitting the cat against some other jungle creatures. Marlin can’t allow the confrontation to occur but his solution results in other troubles.

As the week of events progresses Marlin discovers secrets he wishes he didn’t know. Ultimately, he must make a choice to stand up and try to speak out. But will it be too late?

I wasn’t quite sure what to expect from this but I was quickly drawn into the story. I liked Marlin’s character and the friends he’s made and new friends made during the week. Marlin is kind to the animals even when not all of them are kind to him. He doesn’t set out to cause trouble but it dominoes. Each action tumbles forcing him to make hard decisions. The genre says 5-7 year old but apparently it is supposed to be 5th to 7th grade which is much more fitting. There are moral lessons to be pondered and that would make for great family discussion.

The story is well written with enjoyable descriptions. This was a surprisingly engaging and intriguing story. I note that the kindle and print versions have charming illustrations.

Audio Notes: Julian Elfer does a beautiful job of narrating. His accent works perfectly for Marlin, the edge of the world and the world of animals that comes alive. I totally enjoyed the audio although I imagine the illustrated version would be lovely too.

This is from my Audible TBR shelf. It qualifies for Audio Challenge, Mount TBR and "Z" in Alphabet Soup.

Audible Book Review: You Will Not Have My Hate by Antoine Leiris

This is very well written and narrated, and poignant in it's message.
You Will Not Have My Hate
Written by: Antoine Leiris
Narrated by: Gildart Jackson

Length: 1 hr and 43 mins
Unabridged Audiobook
Release Date:10-25-16
Publisher: Penguin Audio
Genre: Personal Memoirs
My Rating: 4.5 of 5.0

Publisher's Summary
Number one international best seller
"On Friday night you stole the life of an exceptional person, the love of my life, the mother of my son, but you will not have my hate."
On November 13, 2015, Antoine Leiris' wife, Hélène Muyal-Leiris, was killed by terrorists while attending a rock concert at the Bataclan Theater in Paris, in the deadliest attack on France since World War II. Three days later Leiris wrote an open letter addressed directly to his wife's killers, which he posted on Facebook. He refused to be cowed or to let his 17-month-old son's life be defined by Hélène's murder. He refused to let the killers have their way: "For as long as he lives, this little boy will insult you with his happiness and freedom." Instantly that short Facebook post caught fire and was reported on by newspapers and television stations all over the world. In his determination to honor the memory of his wife, he became an international hero to everyone searching desperately for a way to deal with the horror of the Paris attacks and the grim shadow cast today by the threat of terrorism.
Now Leiris tells the full story of his grief and struggle. You Will Not Have My Hate is a remarkable, heartbreaking, and indeed beautiful memoir of how he and his baby son, Melvil, endured in the days and weeks after Hélène's murder. With absolute emotional courage and openness, he somehow finds a way to answer that impossible question: How can I go on? He visits Hélène's body at the morgue, has to tell Melvil that Mommy will not be coming home, and buries the woman he had planned to spend the rest of his life with.
Leiris' grief is terrible, but his love for his family is indomitable. This is the rare and unforgettable testimony of a survivor and a universal message of hope and resilience. Leiris confronts an incomprehensible pain with a humbling generosity and grandeur of spirit. He is a guiding star for us all in these perilous times. His message - hate will be vanquished by love - is eternal.
©2016 Antoine Leiris (P)2016 Penguin Audio

Review:
As the blurb states; “Antoine Leiris' wife, Hélène Muyal-Leiris, was killed by terrorists while attending a rock concert at the Bataclan Theater in Paris” on November 13, 2015. Three days after the event Leiris posted a post to refute the damage of the terrorists by declaring they would not have his hate and would not steal the joy of life from his 17 month old son, Melvil.

This story travels through the immediate reactions of Antoine when he hears of the attack at an event that his wife was attending. He is unable to make contact with his wife and slowly comes to the acknowledgement that she is missing … or worse… killed in the attack. Leiris has to become mother as well as father to their son. He shares the raw emotions of grief and the difficulties dealing with well-meaning sympathies.

I totally appreciated the open sharing and especially the strength exhibited in the sharing. I consider this more a sharing than a story. Although Leiris hoped to write a story for Melvil one day, this debut writing is beautiful, poignant and powerful. It reveals grief, love and the strength and determination to go forward in life. I recommend this to anyone who has suffered a tragedy or wants to understand a life affirming response that can result when faced with such a loss.

Audio Notes: Gildart Jackson does an excellent job narrating this memoir. His soft voice and fitting accent make this a gripping audio experience.

This is from my Audible TBR shelf for "Y" in Alphabet Challenge. This also qualifies for Audiobook and Mount TBR challenges.

Audible Book Review: The Ghost Brigades by John Scalzi

I enjoyed the plot and the narration on this sci fi.

The Ghost Brigades
Written by: John Scalzi
Narrated by: William Dufris

Length: 10 hrs and 28 mins
Series: Old Man's War, Book 2
Unabridged Audiobook
Release Date:03-11-08
Publisher: Macmillan Audio
Genre: Sci Fi
My Rating: 4.25 of 5.0

The Ghost Brigades are the Special Forces of the Colonial Defense Forces, elite troops created from the DNA of the dead and turned into the perfect soldiers for the CDF's toughest operations. They're young, they're fast and strong, and they're totally without normal human qualms.
For the universe is a dangerous place for humanity - and it's about to become far more dangerous. Three races that humans have clashed with before have allied to halt our expansion into space. Their linchpin: the turncoat military scientist Charles Boutin, who knows the CDF's biggest military secrets. To prevail, the CDF most find out why Boutin did what he did.
Jared Dirac is the only human who can provide answers - a superhuman hybrid, created from Boutin's DNA, whose brain is uniquely able to access Boutin's electronic memories. But when the memory transplant appears to fail, Jared is given over to the Ghost Brigades.
Jared begins as one of these perfect soldiers, but as memories begin to surface, he begins to intuit the reason's for Boutin's betrayal.
As Jared desperately hunts for his "father", he must also come to grips with his own choices. Time is running out: the alliance is preparing its offensive, and some of them plan worse things than humanity's mere military defeat.
©2006 John Scalzi; (P)2008 Macmillan Audio

Review:
Jared Dirac is like all Colonial Defense Forces (CDF) soldiers – created for the sole purpose of protecting humans. The CDF are advanced special forces created using the DNA of dead humans. They are trained to do the most dangerous missions. Their humanoid bodies are enhanced with special computerized and integrated brain pals that help them process faster and connect each member of the team to the others.

But Jared has something special – he has the cloned brain of Charles Boutin. Boutin was the military scientific genius who perfected the genetic engineering for the integrated brain pal system. He is believed to be dead until Lt. Jane Sagan of the Ghost Brigades discovers that he faked his death and is working with two alien worlds to begin a war against the CDF with plans that would wipe out the human race.

Jared was created using the rogue scientist’s cloned brain in hopes that he could lead the CDF to the traitor, or at least reveal the motive or intentions of Boutin. Jared does not exhibit any knowledge of Boutin when he first awakens. Still Sagan doesn’t trust him and doesn’t want him on her elite team. But a former enemy, now turned friend (sort of) reminds her that sometimes it is best to keep your enemies close.

Jared successfully works with the team for months through several dangerous missions until a trigger sends his mind into a flash back of his daughter. What? His daughter? He never had a daughter. Slowly Jared begins to recall some memories of Boutin. The strongest of those memories include the love for his young daughter and the hate for his commanding officer. Jared needs to determine where the hate comes from and where that anger has led Boutin.

Jared finally comes face to face with Boutin who plans to use Jared as part of his revenge. Some consider the CDF soldiers to be slaves to their creators. They have few opportunities to make real choices. Now Jared is torn between two mind streams – the protective directive of his programming as Jared Darek and the vengeful goals of his DNA based brain. Will he have a choice when matters come to a head?

Initially I was disappointed that this second book did not include John Perry, the protagonist of the first book, Old Man’s War (OMW). I was glad to find Jane Sagan as a returning character. She and the Ghost Brigades connected to the two stories. I came to really like Jared and the author manages to give him strong emotions that are not common to all CDF soldiers. I was rooting for him to realize his uniqueness rather than get swallowed by Boutin’s personality. I enjoyed the twist at the resolution of the threat and look forward to more adventures in the world of OMW. I recommend this series to those who like human characters in their sci fi action stories. Although this could be read as a standalone I liked knowing the background from the OMW.

Audio Notes: William Dufris is a wonderful narrator. He makes the characters come alive, each with their own voice and personality. I really enjoy this series on audio and plan to listen to more.

This title is from my TBR shelf. It qualifies for my 2017 Audio Book Challenge, Mount TBR and "G" on Alphabet Soup Challenge.

Book Review: Hunt the Dawn by Abbie Roads

This is 'gritty' but wonderfully suspenseful and romantic.
Hunt the Dawn (Fatal Dreams Book 2)
by Abbie Roads

File Size: 1643 KB
Print Length: 352 pages
Publisher: Sourcebooks Casablanca (December 6, 2016)
ASIN: B01JASIXSI
Genre: Suspense, Supernatural
My Rating: 4.75 of 5.0

"Dark and delicious."—Kerrelyn Sparks, New York Times bestselling author on Race the Darkness
Out of darkness and danger
You can't hide your secrets from Lathan Montgomery-he can read your darkest memories. And while his special abilities are invaluable in the FBI's hunt for a serial killer, he has no way to avoid the pain that brings him. Until he is drawn to courageous, down-on-her-luck Evanee Brown and finds himself able to offer her something he's never offered another human being: himself.
Dawns a unique and powerful love
Nightmares are nothing new to Evanee Brown. But once she meets Lathan, they plummet into the realm of the macabre. Murder victims are reaching from beyond the grave to give Evanee evidence that could help Lathan bring a terrifying killer to justice. Together, they could forge an indomitable partnership to thwart violence, abuse, and death-if they survive the forces that seek to tear them apart.

Review:
Lathan is a man who has always been sensitive to others – more than he wants. His olfactory glands are stronger than normal and he can smell the emotional memories of those around him. In a crowd that can be overwhelming and it creates difficulties on individual interactions too. Although his ‘gift’ is frowned on by many, and even makes his parents uncomfortable, the skill has come in handy as he consults with the FBI.

One night as Lathan is riding his motorcycle home he comes upon a car and truck by the side of the road. He smells the fear and anguish of the young woman trying to escape an attacker and steps in to face off with the attacker.

Evanee is trying to make enough money to get out of town and away from her abusive stepbrother, Junior. She shouldn’t go off with a stranger but she must get away from Junior. Evanee is accustomed to having nightmares but having ones that put her in touch with murder victims is new – and frightening. During each nightmare episode, the victim reaches out to her and a dark presence makes her take a token.

Lathan calls in the FBI and they begin to tie together the clues and the bodies to a serial killer known as the Strategist. Lathan has never had a woman focus on his eyes instead of the tattoo on his face. He is awed to have a woman respond to him as honestly as Evanee does. He can’t stop her nightmares but he is determined to keep Evanee safe from her Junior and the Strategist. And both come after her.

I liked the strength of Lathan and Evanee from the very beginning of the story. They both had harsh childhoods and, even as survivors, they are emotionally vulnerable. The author created a relationship with depth and steamy chemistry. There is language and graphic brutality which is why I say this is “gritty”. But Ms. Roads creates wonderfully believable characters and a finely crafted plot, with twists, that carry the story beyond any “grittiness” for me. I may well go back and pick up book 1. I highly recommend this to readers who enjoy strong romantic suspense with a supernatural twist.

I received this from the publisher through NetGalley. It qualifies for my 2017 NetGalley Challenge, Mount TBR and “H” in Alphabet Soup Challenge.

Book Review: The Invisible City (The Stolen Future Trilogy Book 1) by Brian K. Lowe

This is a fun time travel sci fi full of creatures and daring adventures.
The Invisible City (The Stolen Future Trilogy Book 1)
by Brian K. Lowe

File Size: 2316 KB
Print Length: 399 pages
Publication Date: December 13, 2013
Sold by: Amazon Digital Services LLC
ASIN: B00D69LF9C
Genre: Science Fiction, Time Travel
My Rating: 4.5 of 5.0

Tracking German soldiers through the muddy trenches of France, Captain Charles Clee stumbles onto something amazing--a secret archeological expedition from the far future. Discovered and trapped, he flees through their time machine and finds himself stranded nearly one million years in the future. Clee falls in love with a beautiful woman whose family has befriended him, but when she is taken from him by one of Earth's alien overlords, he finds himself the enemy of the one of most powerful men in the world. In his quest to rescue her, he is startled to learn that a working time machine may still exist somewhere. With that machine, he could return to his own time and save his men from certain annihilation, but to do so would mean abandoning his quest. Torn between love and his duty to the men who served under him a million years past, pursued by the merciless assassins of the Time Police, Clee faces war, slavery, and fantastic beasts in a race against time itself--knowing that whatever the outcome, he must lose.
Brian K. Lowe is a member of the Science Fiction and Fantasy Writers of America.

Review:
Captain Charles Clee is an American who choose to face war in France. One morning he was preceding his men into a dangerous situation tracking German soldiers in the rainy, muddy trenches. He follows a man into a cave and inadvertently stumbles into another world… or at least another time! He learns that he has stepped through a time machine and discovers himself far in the future. Clee finds a people whom he initially can’t understand. But he is befriended by a family and falls in love with a young woman. The family helps him create a cover so he can search for the time machine while trying to avoid ‘time cops’.

Clee has to maneuver among a tyrannical alien race, the Nuum, and his troubles increase when his new love is taken by one of the powerful Nuum overlords. Although Clee wants to find a way to return to his own time, he is intent on saving his kidnapped love. His friends provide him with a powerful tool in the form of a holographic library he can carry with him – as long as he isn’t caught with it since possession is illegal. Before he can set off on his adventure he gets caught up in a rebellion and gets shanghaied.

Clee has to escape one perilous situation after another. Along the way he picks up a speaking gorilla, Timash, as a friend and companion. After escaping from a T-Rex they make another friend, Maire, who appears to be a fierce female warrior but turns out to be something else as well.

I must admit that at one point the travels (airships and hovercrafts) and dangers (giant spiders, dinosaurs, and more) made me think of the old tales of Sinbad. Further along I was reminded of spy tricks akin to Mission Impossible escape magic. I appreciated Clee’s friends who help save him when things looked bad. There is plenty of action and several twists that made it a fun adventure to the end.

The story is well written in first person voice of the hero Clee. He is an affable fellow with a strong, optimistic view and logical, if sometimes impulsive, nature. I also liked the literary references to Jules Verne and Shakespeare which would be works known to Clee. This is the first novel I have read by Mr. Lowe and I would be interested in more adventures for Clee and his friends. I recommend this to readers who enjoy engaging science fiction adventure.

I received this in 2016 through NetGalley. It qualifies for my NetGalley Challenge and Mount TBR.

I was drawn to the cover from the NetGalley version. Apparently the cover has changed as it now appears on Amazon with this cover:

What do you think? Do you prefer one cover more than the other?

Audible Book Review: One Dog Night by David Rosenfelt

Every time I listen to one of these I remember how much I like this series!

One Dog Night

Written by: David Rosenfelt

Narrated by: Grover Gardner

Length: 8 hrs and 10 mins

Series: Andy Carpenter, Book 9

Unabridged Audiobook

Release Date:07-22-11

Publisher: Listen & Live Audio, Inc.

Genre: Mystery, Legal Procedures

My Rating: 4.5 of 5.0

Publisher's Summary

For six years Noah Galloway has lived with a horrible secret and the fear that his rebuilt life could be shattered at any moment. Now his dread has become a certainty, and he has been arrested for the arson murder of 26 people.

David Rosenfelt, a native of Paterson, New Jersey, is a graduate of NYU. He was the former marketing president for Tri-Star Pictures before becoming a writer of novels and screenplays. He currently lives in Southern California with his wife and 35 dogs.

Grover Gardner, a Washington, DC.-based actor, director and audiobook narrator, has been a member of the Woolly Mammoth Theatre Company in Washington, as well as Resident Director at Everyman Theatre in Baltimore.

©2011 David Rosenfelt (P)2011 Listen & Live Audio, Inc.

Review:
Andy Carpenter is a wealthy lawyer who doesn’t like to work. Although an excellent and winning defense lawyer, he takes cases only when circumstances compel him to. Often those compelling circumstances include a dog. Andy has a rescued golden retriever, Tara, and is co-owner of a dog rescue shelter which is primaryly operated by a friend and former client.

Andy is currently in his usual non-working status when a young woman approaches him. She has come to ask him to defend her husband, Noah, who has been accused of setting a fire six years earlier in which 26 people were killed. Andy questions why he should talk to her husband, much less represent him. The response is surprising and gets Andy to the first interview. What he learns after that keeps him on the case in spite of seemingly overwhelming circumstantial evidence and the fact that Noah initially believes himself guilty.

Bit by bit Andy and his team begin to uncover clues that support Noah’s innocence. The team includes a former police officer turned private investigator, Lori, who is also Andy’s love; a giant-sized muscle man, Marcus; a brilliant but negatively critical lawyer, Hike; and a computer/financial wizard, Sam. This time Sam engages the help of his senior’s computer class to help track the phone connections and the money. And of course, Tara who serves as a walking sounding board when not ferreting out actual clues.

Andy doesn’t have to prove who set the fire to win the case. But he does have to pull together the pieces of an alternate theory so he can create reasonable doubt in the mind of the jurors. It is a bonus if (like Perry Mason stories of old) he can expose the true culprit. Andy knows he is on the right track as possible leads and witnesses turn up dead before he can secure their stories, much less their testimony.

As the tidbits of facts are woven together, Andy’s team uncover a blackmailing scheme and connections to a terrorist cell that must be stopped. There is a last-minute rush to stop the terrorists even if security reasons might keep the FBI from using the details to convince the Judge to stop Noah's trial.

I love the wonderfully crafted plot and the self deprecating humor in this legal mystery series. It is great to read/listen as Andy skillfully cross examines the witnesses trying to create a reasonable doubt. He begins to put together the puzzle pieces of facts that reveal the true motive for the arson. It takes attention to detail to connect the dots in this twisted chain of events that involves elements dating back over six years. I highly recommend this series to readers who love tales of solid mystery and legal procedure.

Audio Notes: Grover Gardner is “the voice” of this series. He successfully presents the voices and personalities for each of the characters. His methodical narration contributes to the wry humor that flows through the story. I love listening to this series!

This is from my Audible TBR shelf. It qualifies for Audio Book Challenge, Mount TBR and “O” in Alphabet Soup Challenge.

Book Review: Death Unmasked by Rick Sulik

I enjoyed this fast moving mystery/love story.
Death Unmasked
by Rick Sulik

File Size: 3745 KB
Print Length: 265 pages
Publisher: Christopher Matthews Publishing (November 6, 2015)
ASIN: B017OMVKGE
Genre: Mystery, Police Procedure, Reincarnation
My Rating: 4.25 of 5.0

A reincarnated evil is stalking the women of Houston. With each murder, the madman quotes an excerpt from the Oscar Wilde poem, “The Ballad of Reading Gaol.” A huge smokestack belching smoke, a ragged flea market double-breasted wool coat, and an old antique picture frame, bring the distant past back to haunt Houston Homicide Detective, Sean Jamison. With those catalysts, Jamison knows who he was in a past life and that he lost the only woman he could ever love. Searching for his reincarnated mate becomes Jamison’s raison d’être as he and fellow detectives scour Houston for a brutal serial killer. The memory of timeless love drives Jamison’s dogged search for a serial killer, determined to finish what he started decades earlier.
Each clue brings Jamison closer to unmasking his old nemesis. Tenacious police work, lessons learned in the past, and intuition may be the only weapons he has in preventing history from repeating itself.

Review:
This story sets off in a distant time and place with a love and marriage “made in Shangri-La”. Emil is a common workman who plays the guitar and sings love songs to his beautiful wife, Laura. They are happy, though poor, and are content to dream of their own family living peacefully. They never expected their country or small town to be invaded by brutal men. When Emil senses danger they try to run, but do not escape. They are gathered with others, marched into town and loaded into crowded trains. Before they reach their destiny, Laura is taken by one of the soldiers, brutally used and discarded in the snow. Emil is devastated but when he lunges towards the man a gun stock is swung into his face, breaking his nose. He could not save his young wife in this life but vows he will find her. And, as a last act before he is sent to his own death, he stares into the face of the monster who killed Laura and severely injures him.

The author then moves forward to current day to follow Homicide Detective Sean Jamison, a man born with a crooked nose. Sean is a dedicated cop seeking 'to protect and to serve'. His work has left him no time for relationships although he is sure that he will meet the woman who is his destiny – perhaps when he retires, which is in his near future. Before he retires though, he is pulled in for a special investigation of a murderer stalking women. The man leaves a line of poetry from Oscar Wilde at each scene and had been responsible for the kidnapping of a fellow officer’s wife a few years before. The poem, certain scenes and objects jar Sean’s subconscious memory of a past life. Now he is certain he will find his destined love and may also have the chance to capture a monster.

Sean is known by his associates as a loner with strange abilities or senses. As they work together, Sean’s superior, Captain Virginia Schaeffer, begins to fall in love with him in spite of his standoffish behaviors. Suddenly Sean tracks down a woman he thinks is his long-lost love. Can he and the investigative team save her from the mad murderer?

Mr. Sulik weaves poetry into the story, particularly the historic portions. The lines are haunting and the love story he paints is beautiful. I found this engaging from the beginning and it moves along at a steady pace. I was not sure how I would feel about the reincarnation elements but I appreciated the unique twists of the reincarnation and entwined lives. I recommend this to readers who like a good mix of suspense and clean romance.

I received this from the author in fall of 2016. It qualifies for 2017 Mount TBR.

Book Review: Best Kind of Love by Rebecca Talley

This is a sweet, sort of second chance, romance.

Best Kind of Love: A Reunion Romance Novella
by Rebecca Talley

File Size: 2917 KB
Print Length: 98 pages
Publisher: DuBon Publishing (November 4, 2014)
ASIN: B00P9RVW5G
Genre: Romance, Novella, Inspirational
My Rating: 4.25 of 5.0

Brynn Sawyer is a successful project manager in Houston. When her best friend from high school convinces Brynn to attend their ten-year reunion, Brynn hopes she’ll have the chance to reconnect with Troy Richards, the guy who stole her heart back in middle school.
Craig Dawson, an attorney in San Diego, is in a relationship that’s going nowhere and wonders why he can’t seem to commit. When he sees Brynn at their reunion, he thinks he might finally understand why. The only problem—she’s still infatuated with Troy what’s-his-name.
Will Brynn find the love she seeks with Troy, or will she realize the best kind of love has always been right in front of her?

Review:
Brynn is returning to her home town for her 10-year high school reunion. She allowed a close friend to talk her into it partially so they can see each other and enjoy some 'girl' time. Another reason Brynn is going is in hopes of a dream fantasy opportunity with the boy she had a crush on during high school, the popular athlete, Troy.

When Brynn and her friend go to the first ‘meet and greet’ event she runs into her best friend from grade school through high school, Craig. Craig was always there for Brynn. She could be herself with him and they always had fun together. Later she turns around causing Troy to spill his drink down his front.

Even though her first encounter with Troy is an awkward stumble, he keeps seeking Brynn out trying to talk to her. Unfortunately, Troy’s high school girlfriend is quick to interrupt and to advise Brynn that Troy would only be interested in her as a conquest.

Brynn keeps thinking she wants to get time with Troy while Craig keeps trying to get Brynn’s attention. Brynn always thought of Craig as her “go-to” friend and never as a boyfriend. But suddenly she is experiencing tingles and butterflies at unexpected contacts. As Brynn finally has Troy’s attention she is more confused than ever as it appears her dream date may be only fantasy and the real thing may be closer than she thinks.

This is a quick, easy read. I enjoyed the nice writing style from the very opening. This is reflected as "inspirational" but the faith aspect is lightly, but sincerely included. Although the story does not present a new theme it is nicely handled and I found it engaging. I hope to read more from this author and I recommend this as a nice quick romance read.

I received this title in December through instaFreebie. It qualifies for 2017 Mount TBR.

Book Review and Giveaway: Plain Proposal by Beth Wiseman

This is a sweet, easy Amish romance.
Plain Proposal (Daughters of the Promise Book 5)
by Beth Wiseman

File Size: 872 KB
Print Length: 305 pages
Publisher: Thomas Nelson (March 28, 2011)
ASIN: B004P5NRQ0
Genre: Amish, Inspirational, Romance
My Rating: 4.25 of 5.0

Miriam secretly vows to follow Saul no matter what the future holds. She never thought that future might take them away from their Amish community.
Miriam Raber could have her pick of any of the eligible bachelors in Lancaster County. But she only has eyes for one . . . Saul Fisher. He captured her heart years ago, and she's never looked back. Even when rumors circulate that Saul may leave their Amish community to pursue a once-in-a-lifetime apprenticeship, Miriam makes a bold assertion: she will stand by him, whether he stays or goes.
Saul Fisher has experienced an inordinate amount of loss in his short life. Raising his two brothers and caring for a grieving father who privately seeks solace in the comfort of his homemade wine, Saul has kept his father's drinking from the community. But if he leaves Lancaster, the burden of secrecy will be left to his young brothers. How does he balance this with the dream that burns bright within him?
As Miriam and Saul consider leaving their lives behind, God starts revealing things to Miriam that make her think twice about what it means to be a Daughter of the Promise, and what it means to make a home.
Experience this love story with a surprising resolution by one of the most popular voices in Amish fiction.

Review:
Miriam Raber, at eighteen, is a lovely young woman who hasn’t dated in her Amish community as she is waiting for the right boy. She has believed for years that Saul Fisher is the one for her. This troubles her mother as it is well known that Saul has had a couple of rumbles and now there are rumors that he has plans to leave the community. Why can’t Miriam be interested in Jesse who is interested in her? Jesse is handsome, kind, hardworking and an excellent choice for a partner.

Miriam is looking forward to her first outing with Saul when she learns that her cousin, Shelby, has arrived from the city. Shelby is disgruntled and wary after suffering through her parents’ divorce and getting herself into a bit of trouble which has resulted in her being ‘sent away’ to her Amish cousins. The Amish farm is a culture shock for Shelby and Miriam tries her best to make her feel welcome.

Saul cares for Miriam and wants the chance to spend time with her even though he knows he shouldn’t. He has dreams that will take him to the city if only things remain smooth at his home so he can comfortably leave his younger brothers with their father. But their father is still having struggles after the death of Saul’s mother and sister. Saul is torn between protecting his family, wanting to be with Miriam and pursuing his dream.

Miriam believes that she is willing to be with Saul no matter where he goes but she doesn’t understand his moods as he seems to be pushing her away. She doesn’t yet know the extent of his dreams or his home problems. Will she still be supportive when she learns the full truth?

Initially Miriam’s mother is judgmental of Saul and later misjudges Shelby for influencing Miriam. Later her father becomes controlling as he fears Miriam may choose to leave the community.

Miriam’s parents are walking a fine line between trying to hold on to their beloved daughter and allowing her freedom to make her own decisions. Saul is hiding secrets at home rather than seeking help from others in their community. Shelby is finding her way to rebuilding her relationship with God as she discovers benefits and peace in the simple lifestyle of the Amish community.

This is a sweet story with likeable characters. It reads quickly and easily and the conflicts create a good plot. I really like the premise of what it means to be “a Daughter of the Promise”. There are several faith issues reflected and there are good discussion questions at the end. There are also some yummy recipes. (I’m eager for my hubby to make the Overnight Blueberry French Toast.) I recommend this to readers who enjoy Amish romances.

This was our Ladies Book Club read for April. It qualifies for Mount TBR and "P" in Alphabet Soup Challenge.

GIVEAWAY:

One (very gently read) PRINT COPY - US Only

ENTRY FORM HERE

(Don't forget to fill in the form for entry!)

For 3 Extra Bonus entries

(a) comment on the review, OR

(b) Visit the Author's website and tell me something you learned or like there.

* This contest is open to US for Print Copy.
* This contest will close 5 PM (Central) May 27, 2017. Winner will be announced in the Sunday Post on 2/26/17.
Winners are asked to respond on the winners form linked in the announcement or by email.

Book Review: From Afar by Roger Thomas

This is a beautifully written, delightful fictional story of the three wise men, and it gives me goosebumps!  [This is probably the closest I will get to "gushing" in a review.]
From Afar
by Roger Thomas

File Size: 923 KB
Print Length: 187 pages
Publisher: Tumblar House (October 24, 2016)
ASIN: B01MQ507NQ
Genre: Inspirational. Religious, Historical Fiction
My Rating: 5.0+ of 5.0

The Magi, or Three Kings, of the Nativity story are among the best loved yet most mysterious figures in all history. The fleeting and sparse account in St. Matthew's Gospel raises as many questions as it answers. It has been so embroidered over the centuries that the original historical context has been almost completely buried. Yet the world of the early first century was as dynamic and intriguing as any legend - and much more perilous.
In his compelling novelization of the journey of the Magi, Roger Thomas draws on Scripture, history, and modern research. This swift-moving tale brings these shadowed figures to vivid life. You meet them as men of their time and culture: learned and noble, yet experienced with a brutal world and even violent when necessary. Come with them as they search for a King they do not understand, and seek for answers to questions lying in the deepest parts of their souls - providing they survive the dangers of the journey.

Review:
This is a beautifully rich imaging of the story of the three Magi who seek the birth of a king that was told in the stars. Melchior is the scholar; the teacher and mentor to the others. Gaspar is a warrior and strategist who hires out for selected battles as he has not yet found a noble general who seeks to serve his people rather than himself. Balthazar is the seeker of truth, trying out any religion he comes across in hopes of finding purity and true devotion. Gaspar and Balthazar meet by chance as they stop to visit their old teacher who seems a bit disheartened.

When Melchior becomes excited by a strange alignment in the stars, they all become interested. He taught them that there are secrets that can be interpreted by watching the heavens. Melchior is convinced that the great star and surrounding planets foretell the birth of a great king. In their discussions, Balthazar shares that there were prophesies given by a Jew in exile that told of many events that Melchior knew were not predicted by any other writings. Melchior is eager to learn more of the dreams and visions of Bel’Tshazzar, also known as Dani’el. After months of study, Melchior announces that based on the teachings he believes that the year has come when a king -more than a king, but the savior of the Jews, the Mesiach - is to be born of the tribe of Judah. The three men agree to follow the path of the star to find the king.

They set out with a good-sized group of retainers and men at arms. They also take along a young slave boy, Baba, who has proven helpful, curious and eager. He is ready for his first journey away from home.

All of the journey is an adventure, but some roads are safe and others bring danger. Along the way, they have encounters where they serve others and are given, or recover, precious gifts. When they reach Jerusalem and discover there is no new born king they falter. Then they get additional information that makes them press on just a bit further to Beit-Lechem.

The author does a wonderful job creating the characters with depths and uniqueness that compliment and strengthen each other. There are other characters too who are nicely drawn and add their own elements, such as Baba and Captain Tegranes. The journey is full of action and carried through to the return to Melchior's estate with interesting details. The story is well-crafted, and the characters and events are totally believable and beautifully presented. I wanted it to be real.

Mr. Thomas uses creative situations where the Magi acquire the gifts they later give to Yusef, Miryam and baby Y'shua. The description as they gaze on "the Divine Child" is breathtaking. The author also deftly weaves in messages of mercy and forgiveness as well as references to New Testament scriptures that may be recognized by those who have read or studied the Bible.

I found this story exhilarating! It gave me goose bumps and still does as I think of it. I had planned to read it earlier in the year but reading it a few months later is fine; almost appropriate just as the Magi came months after the child was born. I plan to buy this for my ladies’ book club and hope they will love reading it as I did. I recommend this to anyone who loves the story of the Three Kings, or Wisemen, as part of the Nativity story… and also to those who may be seekers drawn by the heartstrings of a God who speaks to His people in visions and in heavenly signs.

I am thankful that I received this in December through a Goodreads offering for review. It qualifies for Mount TBR Challenge.

Just a taste of the writing that spoke to me:
Balthazar shares with the others:

“We know that there is order in the spheres of the heavens. The stars and planets step their dance with regularity and harmony.” (Location 272.)
“It is in the heavens that we find the perfect, the unchanging, the incorruptible. It is only on this earth, beneath the sphere of the moon, that we find corruption and decay and imperfection. We men strive to do things, but our doings go awry.” (Location 276.)

Book Review: Bookburners by Max Gladstone, Mur Lafferty, Brian Francis Slattery, Margaret Dunlap

This is a fun read - a squad fighting magic by confiscating the books that let the monsters out.
Bookburners
by Max Gladstone, Mur Lafferty, Brian Francis Slattery, Margaret Dunlap

File Size: 2920 KB
Print Length: 800 pages
Publisher: Serial Box (January 24, 2017)
ASIN: B01N0SKM0F
Genre: Urban Fantasy
My Rating: 4.25 of 5.0

Magic is real, and hungry. It’s trapped in ancient texts and artifacts, and only a few who discover it survive to fight back. Detective Sal Brooks is a survivor. She joins a Vatican-backed black-ops anti-magic squad—Team Three of the Societas Librorum Occultorum—and together they stand between humanity and the magical apocalypse. Some call them the Bookburners. They don’t like the label.
Supernatural meets The Da Vinci Code in a fast-paced, kickass character driven novel chock-full of magic, mystery, and mayhem, written collaboratively by a team of some of the best writers working in fantasy.
Originally presented serially in 16 episodes, this omnibus collects all installments of Bookburners Season One into one edition.

Review:
This book tells the tales of a squad known as the Bookburners. Thank goodness they don’t really burn books – well at least Team 3 doesn’t. They capture the magical books that allow monsters, usually evil and harmful, out to hurt the world.

The reader first meets Detective Sal Brooks when her brother shows up at her home with a strange book. The next thing Sal knows people are knocking on her door looking for her brother. The strangers burst into her apartment and she experiences a warp in time as her brother vanishes. Sal joins ‘the team’ to find her brother and soon learns that things are much stranger than she knew.

The team is based out of the Vatican and consists of a Menchu, a priest, Asanti, an archivist, Liam, a computer whiz, Grace, a fierce monster fighter (with secrets) and now Sal, an observant and determined detective. Actually, they all have secrets from their pasts that resulted in them being selected or recruited to Team 3. There are other teams who may be called in if Team 3 can’t contain the situation or if there needs to be clean up after Team 3 captures the book and shuts down the demon it contains.

The book consists of 16 Episodes which were apparently originally released in serial form. Combining them made this a bit long (at least for me) but I liked reading all of the adventures together. The episodes tell different assignment adventures running chronologically. There are four authors but the episodes flow well together. Although several of the monsters are very strange, there were only two episodes that I found really bizarre. One of those was a trip into a very strange ‘hellish’ realm.

I really liked the characters, whose traits, quirks and vulnerabilities are revealed though the assignments with each getting a time when their strengths are ‘showcased’. The interactions of the team add engagement beyond the monster fighting action. I found myself rooting for them to work things out together and to overcome the enemies within their own organization. This is a bit zany but a lot of fun. I recommend it to readers who like monster hunting adventures served up with humor.

I received this title through NetGalley. It qualifies for 2017 NetGalley Challenge, 2017 Mount TBR and “B” in Alphabet Challenge.

Audible Book Review: The Quilt by Gary Paulsen

This was lovely and had me in tears by the end.

The Quilt
Written by: Gary Paulsen
Narrated by: Susan Ericksen

Length: 1 hr and 45 mins
Series: Alida
Unabridged Audiobook
Release Date:02-26-13
Publisher: Brilliance Audio
Genre: Family, Ages 8-10
My Rating: 5.0 of 5.0

Publisher's Summary
A six-year-old boy goes to spend the summer with his grandmother, Alida, in a small Minnesota town. With the men all gone off to fight, the women are left to run the farms. There’s plenty for the boy to do - trying to help with the chores; getting to know the dog and the horses, cows, pigs, and chickens.
But when his cousin Kristina goes into labor, he can’t do a thing. Instead, the house fills with women come to help and to wait, and to work on the quilt together. This is no common, everyday quilt, but one that contains all the stories of the boy’s family. And as they wait, and work, the women share these stories with the boy.
In this spare, affecting novel, ordinary life and ordinary things take on a new meaning, and the bond between a boy and his grandmother shines through.
©2013 Brilliance Audio, Inc.; 2005 Gary Paulsen

Review:
Gary Paulsen has painful memories of his mother but some wonderful memories of his grandmother, Alida. He spent summers with Alida and one summer, as a six-year-old boy, was particularly memorable. Alida and young Gary are driven on an old, lumbering truck to cousin Kristina’s home to be with her as she is expecting. The boy learned of all the fun animals on a farm along with all the chores even a young boy can help with. But he learned something even more important about people… about the community of family.

The men are all away at war so the women are about the business of taking care of the farms. Kristina works up to the day she goes into labor. Young Gary tries to figure out what is going on but the kitchen full of women shoo him aside. And when he hears the cries of labor he runs out the door.

But Gary is blessed to be allowed to sit in the circle around the community quilt. There he learns the special history of the quilt as the ladies tell stories of their family members who are no longer there.

The story was simple in its presentation but deeply moving in emotional impact. I had never read Gary Paulsen so I did not pick this up because of the author. I thought it sounded interesting. As it started I wasn’t immediately pulled in but then I began to be interested in the historical elements. Then it moved into the emotional aspects and I was punched in the gut with the beauty of the precious memories shared. This may be written for young people but it is a gem for adults too.

Audio Notes: Susan Ericksen is a wonderful narrator and I recognized her voice immediately as the voice of JD Robb’s In Death series. I had to adjust my listening to her narration of this totally different work. I loved how she does grandmother’s Norwegian accent, adding the extra touch to the narration. I am very glad I got this on audio.

This was from my Audible TBR shelf. (I didn’t note so I don’t know if this was an Audible Daily Deal or a half price purchase.) This qualifies for 2017 Audio Book Challenge, 2017 Mount TBR and “Q” in Alphabet Challenge.

Book Review: Fake by Twist Phelan

This is a fast-paced, engaging thriller with an interesting female protagonist.
Fake
by Twist Phelan

File Size: 1479 KB
Print Length: 228 pages
Publisher: Virage Press (May 30, 2016)
ASIN: B01GEY1HGQ
Genre: Thriller, Suspense
My Rating: 4.5 of 5.0

Finn Teller Corporate Spy Mystery #1
Have you ever thought about buying a counterfeit product? Maybe a watch or a handbag for fun? After you read FAKE, the first book in Twist Phelan's series featuring Finn Teller, corporate spy, you'll think again.
From Thriller Award-winning author Twist Phelan comes "a new and capable heroine you'll want to see again" (Jan Burke, Edgar® Award-winning and New York Times-bestselling author). FAKE, the first book in Phelan's new series featuring corporate spy Finn Teller, shines a light on the netherworld of counterfeit goods.
An assignment with a Milan fashion house leads Finn to an undercover investigation of a train wreck in Croatia—scene of her most tragic professional mistake and home to terrorists still out for revenge. The hunter becomes the hunted and the stakes skyrocket as Finn must win a race against the clock to stop the spread of a deadly African pandemic and escape with her life. FAKE is a page-turning mystery that will keep you guessing up to the end.
"Full of character and good storytelling!" –Michael Connelly, Edgar® Award-winning and New York Times-bestselling author

Review:
Finn, a corporate spy, is a tough cookie with some painful guilt baggage. She solves a case in a Milan fashion house which gets her assigned to investigate a train wreck in Croatia. She doesn’t want to return to Croatia which is the place of a mistake she feels she made a few years earlier. But her skills are needed, the client wants her specifically and the boss says “go”.

The train wreck is only part of the investigation as the real problem is that it was carrying a special antibiotic for an African plague. The pills on the train were discovered to be fake when found at the train wreck. Finn is interviewing and investigating both angles of the case but soon is dodging bullets. The attacks on her might be tied to her current investigation or might just as likely be tied to the case she feels she bungled. Either way, she needs to move quickly to save herself and try to help the victims of the plague. Can Finn expose the villains before they or the terrorists take her out?

This has a realistic plot and a fast action ride. I liked how the details were uncovered and the spurts of danger and race to escape made for page turning attention. Finn is a strong character with her own flaws and vulnerabilities. The author interspersed chapters describing the prior event that impacted Finn so hard and left her with enemies in the area. I appreciated that the book moved at a quick pace without compromising on the suspense.

This is the first story I have read by Ms. Phelan but I hope to read more. I may have to try the other series since it involves a female business lawyer. I do recommend this to readers who enjoy a good, fast-paced thriller.

I received this through NetGalley. It qualifies for 2017 NetGalley Challenge and Mount TBR.

Book Review and Giveaway: Free Space by Sean Danker

This is not as intriguing as book one, but face-paced and enjoyable.

Free Space (Admiral)
by Sean Danker

File Size: 1537 KB
Print Length: 313 pages
Publisher: Ace (May 2, 2017)
Sold by: Penguin Group (USA) LLC
ASIN: B01KGZVXC2
Genre: Sci Fi, Thriller
My Rating: 4.0 of 5.0

In the follow-up to Admiral, the intergalactic war has ended and hostilities between the Evagardian Empire and the Commonwealth are officially over, but the admiral is far from safe. . . .
I’d impersonated a prince, temporarily stopped a war, escaped a deadly planet, and survived more assassination attempts than I could conveniently count. After all that, there shouldn’t have been anything simpler than a nice weekend with a charming Evagardian girl.
However, some corners of the galaxy aren’t as genteel as the Empire, and Evagardians aren’t universally loved, which is how I ended up kidnapped to be traded as a commodity.
Their timing couldn’t have been worse. I'm not at my best, but these people have no idea whom they're dealing with: a highly trained, genetically engineered soldier in the Imperial Service who happens to be my date.

Review:
The Admiral, an assassin and disguise expert, and Salmagard, a highly trained, genetically engineered soldier, saved each other in their first adventure. Now they are hoping to enjoy some ‘down’ time. Unfortunately, the Admiral is poisoned even before they meet for their date. And that’s just the beginning of their troubles.

They pick up a carrier to do some sightseeing and meet two Imperials, Sei and Diana, when they share the ride. The car is diverted and the four end up kidnapped. Admiral and Sei are separated to be traded while the women are retained for other uses. But their captors do not know what they’ve gotten themselves into as Salmagard and Diana will find a way to escape and go after their dates.

The Admiral and Sei are sold at auction and shipped off site. They awaken on a planet where the people are living in an old earth style community. It appears to be a religious cult led by a man who clearly, to the Admiral’s view, has nefarious plans. The Admiral doesn’t know how he is going to get himself out of this predicament.

This sequel to Admiral kicks off with a good hook and keeps on moving at a fast pace. The cult world is a bit strange and confusing but it provides a backdrop of thought as Salmagard begins to see that her strict training may not have provided all she needs to know of reality and politics. Neither side is full of all the “right” as clearly there are those who abuse power no matter what side they supposedly serve. And in the end, most will serve their own purposes rather than honor the loyalty that may have been expected.

The intrigue and mystery in this was not as intense as in book one. This fills out more of the backstory for the Admiral and Salmagard and I liked the new characters, Sei and Diana. Although this story is almost completely focused on the kidnapping and escape, I did enjoy the fast-paced action and the continued irreverent and pragmatic attitude the Admiral displays even when facing death…again. This made for a fast, fun read. The rather abrupt ending leaves an opening for new intrigue which I hope would be more apparent in the next book.

I received the title through NetGalley. It qualifies for 2017 NetGalley Challenge, Mount TBR and “F” in Alphabet Challenge.

GIVEAWAY:

One PRINT COPY from the publisher - US Only

ENTRY FORM HERE

(Don't forget to fill in the form for entry!)

For 3 Extra Bonus entries

(a) comment on the review, OR

(b) Visit the Author's website and tell me something you learned or like there.

* This contest is open to US for Print Copy.
* This contest will close 5 PM (Central) May 13, 2017. Winner will be announced in the Sunday Post on May 14, 2017.
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Audible Book Review: The Monster Calls by Patrick Ness

This is a dark, yet charmingly creative, tale of loss suitable to help young people who have a loved one facing serious illness.
A Monster Calls: Inspired by an Idea from Siobhan Dowd
Written by: Patrick Ness
Narrated by: Jason Isaacs

Length: 3 hrs and 59 mins
Unabridged Audiobook
Release Date:09-23-11
Publisher: Brilliance Audio
Genre: Teens, Fantasy, Family
My Rating: 4.5 of 5.0

Publisher's Summary
The monster showed up after midnight. As they do. But it isn’t the monster Conor’s been expecting. He’s been expecting the one from his nightmare, the nightmare he’s had nearly every night since his mother started her treatments, the one with the darkness and the wind and the screaming.... This monster, though, is something different. Something ancient, something wild. And it wants the most dangerous thing of all from Conor. It wants the truth. Patrick Ness spins a tale from the final story idea of Siobhan Dowd, whose premature death from cancer prevented her from writing it herself.

Darkly mischievous and painfully funny, A Monster Calls is an extraordinarily moving novel about coming to terms with loss from two of our finest writers for young adults.

©2011 Patrick Ness (P)2011 Brilliance Audio, Inc.

Review:
Conor is a troubled youth. He has suffered nightmares since his mother started her treatments. Nightmares with darkness, wind, cliffs and screaming. Conor struggles to be left alone in school although he is caught between the taunting bullies and the pitying teachers who cut him too much slack because of what he is dealing with at home.

One night, at 12:07am exactly, the Monster arrives at his window. Not the monster from his nightmares, but one rather closer to home. Conor sort of recognizes the Monster as the ancient yew tree that grows behind their house, up the hill, beside the old church. The Monster insists that he has been called to help Conor get through the nightmares… to the truth. The Monster tells three stories with the instructions that Conor is to tell the final, fourth story. Conor might think it is just a dream except for the leaves in his room one night and the poison yew berries all over his floor another night.

Even when Conor’s grandmother takes charge of him and moves him temporarily to her home, the Monster still shows up. The stories the Monster tells don’t really make sense to Conor, although the Monster will try to explain before their time is over. It all has to do with the unreliability of appearances, the vagaries of men, self deception, responsibility and the frailties of life.

This made me realize the impact that illness can have on others around a patient -- the children and the parents.  Especially children old enough to struggle with the idea of losing their beloved parent. The story is wonderfully imaginative even if a little on the dark side. I could see it being a helpful story to be shared when an older tween or younger teen who is facing illness, and mortality, in a family member.

Audio Notes: Jason Isaacs does a lovely job with the narration. He provides just the right accents to match the characters and convey the darkness of the Monster that is tempered with his caring nature. The narration evokes the appropriate emotions of fear, pain, despair, frustration and love. The audio is a great experience.

This was a story from my Audible TBR shelf. It qualifies for 2017 Audio Book Challenge, Mount TBR and "M" in Alphabet Challenge.