Book Review: Must Love Babies by Lynnette Austin

This is a fun, charming romance with a baby and vintage cars.
Must Love Babies
by Lynnette Austin

File Size: 1764 KB
Print Length: 416 pages
Publisher: Sourcebooks Casablanca (June 5, 2018)
ASIN: B079JVCHTX
Genre: Contemporary Romance, Small Town
My Rating: 4.5 of 5.0

This baby's not the only one in need of a cuddle...
Brant Wylder is a bachelor and loving it! He's in Misty Bottoms, Georgia, property-hunting for his vintage car repair shop when he gets the call. His sister's been in an accident, and Brant has to drop everything and take care of his five-month-old nephew. That's the end of the bachelor lifestyle.
Bridal boutique owner Molly Stiles is all business all the time, until she sees that Brant's in trouble. In this Southern town, nobody ever has to go it alone. And besides, how can she resist that beautiful baby in the arms of a beautiful man...?

Review:
Brant has his bachelor eye on Molly Stiles although he knows he shouldn’t move on his interest since she doesn’t seem an easy, limited time date. Still, he can enjoy looking. When his sister is hospitalized after a car accident, Brant is called in to take care of his five-month-old nephew. This ends his loose bachelor days and he is glad to find Molly is willing to help him out. She might not have a lot of experience with infants, but she does love babies.

Molly has trauma from her young years and men who leave. She has a To-Do schedule that keeps her career in focus and finding a boyfriend out a few years. She might have been able to resist Brant when she thought he was single, trouble and leaving town to boot. Now he is not only planning to move his business to Misty Bottoms, but it is clear he can use help and support with the infant he is caring for. Surely she can help him and keep to her To-Do time line… if only he wasn’t pushing to change the schedule.

These are both charming characters. Brant is quick to step up to help his family and he is consistently a gentleman with Molly (despite his mental thoughts). Molly has made a successful start of her own business but has emotional baggage to work through. The interaction with the baby is natural and fun (think first time diaper changes, feeding and bathing). Brant’s brothers and their vintage car business, as well as a surprise celebrity wedding, add to the story.

I enjoyed the easy flow of the dialogue and the struggles both characters go through to overcome their internal resistance to commitment. Although the story is fairly predictable, it is nicely handled and there are a few surprises as Molly faces her background disappointment. I recommend this to readers who enjoy strong romance where the guy has to convince the girl to take a chance on love.

Source: Author Marketing Experts. This will qualify for a 2018 review for my 2018 Alphabet Challenge.

Audio Book Review: Christmas at the Inn by Andrea Twombly

This is a sweet, easy read.

Christmas at the Inn

Rose and Briar Inn Stories, Book 1

By: Andrea Twombly
Narrated by: Lisa Leslie

Length: 50 mins
Unabridged Audiobook
Release date: 05-24-18
Publisher: Annie Acorn Publishing LLC
Genre: Contemporary Romance, Holiday
My Rating: 4.25 of 5.0

Publisher's Summary
Annie Acorn Audio is pleased to present Christmas at the Inn written by Andrea Twombly and narrated by Lisa Leslie.
“The sign says NO VACANCY, not VACANCY.” The innkeeper's gruff reply belied his handsome face, and Angela Perkins took a step back.
Heading north for the holidays, things certainly hadn't gone as she had planned. A snowstorm, an apple pie, and an old friend all conspire to bring her to a crossroads. Will a Christmas Eve detour send her back to her snug village home, or will she forge ahead and let a turn in the road lead her to newfound happiness?
In this, the first entry in her new Rose and Briar Inn series, internationally beloved From Women's Pens author Andrea Twombly weaves a warm story of the Christmas season, rich in challenges overcome and courage discovered along a twisting road to love.
You won't want to miss this one!
©2015 Annie Acorn Publishing LLC (P)2018 Annie Acorn Publishing LLC

Review:
This is a sweet, quick novel with mature characters who have lost their life partners. A snow storm brings an unexpected encounter that could change the future lives of the retired teacher and the lonely innkeeper. Will they be held by their past loves or will they see a chance for a new future?

I enjoyed the easy flow of this story. The characters are nicely developed even though this is short. The reader anticipates this to be a second chance at love story and the author delivers in a sweet fashion. I recommend this to readers who enjoy mature characters and a second chance at love.

Audio Notes: Lisa Leslie provides a direct narration with distinct voices. I felt that the reading was a calmer emotional presentation than might have been. Still, it was a pleasant performance.

Source: author through AudioBook Boom. This qualifies for Audiobook and 2018Alphabet Challenges.

Book Review and Giveaway: One Perfect Spring by Irene Hannon

My Ladies Book Club enjoyed this sweet story full of forgiveness, growth and faith.
One Perfect Spring
by Irene Hannon

Amazon Link
Paperback: 384 pages
Publisher: Revell (May 6, 2014)
Language: English
ISBN-13: 978-0800722678
Genre: Contemporary Romance, Inspirational
My Rating: 4.75 of 5.0

Claire Summers is a determined, independent single mother who is doing her best to make lemonade out of the lemons life has handed her. Keith Watson is a results-oriented workaholic with no time for a social life. As the executive assistant to a local philanthropic businessman, he’s used to fielding requests for donations. But when a letter from Claire’s eleven-year-old daughter reaches his desk, everything changes. The girl isn’t asking for money, but for help finding the long-lost son of an elderly neighbor.
As Keith digs reluctantly into this complicated assignment, he has no idea how intertwined his life and Claire’s will become–nor how one little girl’s kindhearted request will touch so many lives and reap so many blessings.
Through compelling characters and surprising plot twists, Irene Hannon offers readers this tenderhearted story of family connections that demonstrates how life is like lilacs–the biggest blooms often come only after the harshest winters.

Review:
Claire is a single mother raising her 11-year-old daughter, Haley. Claire is busy as a teacher and working, one project at a time, on her fixer-upper home. Claire has been burned by the men in her past and doesn’t have time for romance. Claire takes time to help her mature neighbor, Dr. Maureen Chandler, who has had a recent bout with cancer surgery. Haley overhears a confidential conversation between Claire and Maureen. Unknown to anyone else, Haley writes a letter to a private foundation asking them to help Maureen find her long lost son.

Keith Watson is a workaholic serving as the executive assistant to a former workaholic, David. The business includes a philanthropic division which answers written requests submitted by strangers. David is struggling to rebuild a relationship with his estranged daughter. He recognizes the importance of balancing career and family. Keith plans to pass on Haley’s letter but David assigns it to Keith hoping it will get him out of the office. David doesn’t have any idea how the assignment may impact Keith who has his own childhood trauma baggage.

The simple, kind hearted act of a young person sets off a chain of events that blossoms into love for two couples. The romantic chemistry is portrayed without the need for sexual scenes. There are lessons of forgiveness and second chances. Some of the characters have a closer walk of faith but others realize they need to renew their faith. Ms. Hannon develops all of the characters and the story allows them to grow beautifully.

The writing moves smoothly with a story that has a lot of natural life scenes and some twists that keep it interesting. I read and enjoyed Ms. Hannon’s romantic suspense (Fatal Judgment) and have been planning to read more. I was curious when I saw the author also writes contemporary romance and I am glad I shared this with my ladies’ book club. The story is uplifting, and the ladies enjoyed the richness. I recommend this to readers who enjoy clean, small town romance with quiet faith elements.

Source: Discount Purchase through Christianbook.com for Ladies Book Club. It is a 2018 title for my 2018 Alphabet Challenge.

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Book Review and Tour Giveaway: Tribal Affairs by Matt Dallmann

This is a story full of fantasy, mystery and suspense woven around a thwarted romance.

Tribal Affairs
by Matt Dallmann

Category: YA Fiction, 277 pages
Genre: Fantasy
Publisher: Matt Dallmann
Release date: July 2017
Tour dates: August 6 to 24, 2018
Content Rating: G (No bad language or sex)
My Rating: 4.0 of 5.0

Dahlia, a centuries old genie, lies hopelessly trapped in a damaged golden locket charm attached to an ankle bracelet. Its owner, sixteen-year-old Liana, wears it for the first time during her father Jamison’s opening night illusion spectacular. Not only does its presence cause Jamison to folly his performance, but it also starts a chain of bizarre events that lead to a showdown with Dahlia’s mortal enemy, Stefan, and an unsuspecting romance between Liana and his son.

Review:
Dahlia is a genie who has been trapped in a locket on an ankle bracelet. Liana’s mother apparently died from mental illness and now sixteen-year-old Liana has decided to wear the ankle bracelet. She has no idea the significance of the locket which soon brings chaos into her life.

Liana begins dreaming strange dreams of star-crossed lovers. Then she begins to see images. Before long her father thinks she needs medical help like her mother did. But Liana is convinced that there is something stranger – and more real than she can understand – going on. She meets a strange young man named Taffi, which is the same name as the horse in her father’s illusion act. Is Taffi really a genie as he claims? Is he there to help her or hurt her? Are they both a victim of a curse or is it all a delusion or hallucination?

The world of genies created by the author is fantastical, full of magic, power, jealousies and beasties. The reader quickly learns there is a connection between Dahlia and Liana but there is a long path of adventure and danger to reveal the details. The genies intrigues and relationships are similar to human although they seem larger due to the powers the genies can use. They also seem more dangerous and less benign than one might think a genie would be.

The author uses an interesting approach by having Dahlia narrate the story at first. However as chapters progress, the point of view shifts to third person. Later it is clear that Dahlia is narrating again. I often have the Kindle reading to me, so I had to keep close track of whose feelings were being described since Dahlia should have been describing observations of other’s expressions and actions rather than describing their internal feelings. This caused some confusion for me which was a little distracting. Although, thinking back, I think perhaps Dahlia could read the thoughts of the others. Still, it created some confusion.

In spite of that, I enjoyed the fantasy journey and the strange creatures along the way. I especially liked the sea creatures from one of the genie worlds. There is a tentative, stumbling romance including appropriate teenage angst. It was interesting to read the emotional growth of the characters. I recommend this to readers who enjoy fantasy and a light YA romance.

Source: iRead Book Tours. This will qualify for a 2018Alphabet choice.

To follow the tour and read reviews, please visit Matt Dallmann's page on iRead Book Tours.

Buy the Book:

Amazon

Add to Goodreads

Meet the Author:

Matt Dallmann has a background in acting and holds a BFA from Marymount Manhattan College in New York City. His films and screenplays have been featured at film festivals across the United States including Cinequest, Big Apple Film Festival, Seattle’s True Independent Film Festival, DragonCon and Zero Independent Film Festival. His piano compositions have been published for commercial use and he is a member of ASCAP. Matt is also the Co-Founder and Vice President of the boutique medical billing firm VGA Billing Services, Inc. in New York City. He lives in New Jersey with his wife and two daughters.

Connect with the author: Website ~ Twitter ~ Pinterest

Enter the Giveaway!

Ends Sept 5, 2018

Prizes: Win one of 100 Kindle copies (open to USA only)

Goodreads Book Giveaway

Tribal Affairs

by Matt Dallmann

Giveaway ends September 05, 2018.

See the giveaway details at Goodreads.

Enter Giveaway

#NetGalley Book Review: Jack Gilmour: Wish Lawyer by Ed Ryder

This is a fun pulp noir, lawyer tale.

Jack Gilmour: Wish Lawyer
by Ed Ryder

File Size: 1508 KB
Print Length: 108 pages
Publication Date: July 12, 2018
ASIN: B07D91TXQN
Genre: Noir, Paranormal, Urban Fantasy
My Rating: 4.5 of 5.0

Don’t be careful what you wish for, be certain!
Meet Jack Gilmour, Las Vegas’ first and only demonic contract lawyer, protecting people against themselves from offers they can’t refuse.
When a casino owner Eddie Malfitano’s nephew makes a potentially fatal pact to be with a woman he met at a club, the paper trail leads to Lucia Oredis, a powerful demon from Jack’s past. She proposes a deal: to cancel the contract, Jack must investigate a conspiracy in the corridors of demonic power, and help her destroy it.
With time running out and his assistant missing, Jack goes on a quest to solve both mysteries and gets in over his head with both the human and demonic underworld. With only his wits, the Malfitano family and a gambling wizard for help, can Jack save the day and both worlds?

Review:
Jack Gilmour is a Las Vegas attorney specializing in demon contract law. His job is to protect people from entering into contracts with the devil, or, if they have already made a deal he may be able to help get the contract voided. Jack works with some unusual characters to accomplish his goals. One is Sebastian, a wizard who is able to work magic against demonic powers. The other is a powerful, seductress Lucia, a demon of the Inner Circle.

Jack is called upon by a local casino owner to get his nephew out of a poorly chosen deal. The young man might get a night of his dreams but it would most likely be followed by his death. Jack enlists the help of Sebastian and Lucia. Lucia agrees to help but only if Jack agrees to investigate a demonic conspiracy that threatens Lucia’s control as well as human safety. Jack has to infiltrate a demon stronghold to uncover answers. He has to follow one clue to another to unravel the contract and he is racing against time.

I enjoyed the mystery and the noir elements of this story. Jack and Sebastian are likeable characters and even Lucia has a bit of a draw – well she is a temptress demon after all. This is a quick, entertaining read and it supports an adage I often tell my clients: An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure! I recommend this fun, easy read to those who enjoy noir mystery.

Source: NetGalley 2018. This qualifies for my 2018 NetGalley and 2018 Alphabet Challenges.

Audiobook Review: The Painter of Time by Matthew S O'Connell

There is great history, art detail and a good twist in this story.
The Painter of Time
By: Matthew S O'Connell
Narrated by: Susan Fouche

Length: 10 hrs and 10 mins
Unabridged Audiobook
Release date: 06-13-18
Language: English
Publisher: Matthew O'Connell
Genre: Historical, Mystery
My Rating: 4.25 of 5.0

Publisher's Summary
Contemporary/historical suspense audiobook set amid the art world of modern day NYC and the dawn of the Renaissance in Italy.
Bronx born and bred, Mackenzie Ferrara is both nervous and excited to begin her career as a restorer of fine art at the prestigious Cloisters in New York City. The star of the restoration team is a handsome and reserved Italian, Anthony Bataglia. On loan from the Ufizzi, he is renowned for his ability to bring pre-Renaissance treasures back to life. Despite a rocky start, the two form a close working relationship, which Mackenzie hopes will blossom into something more.
But as she works with him she begins to notice peculiar patterns and unexplainable similarities in all of his restorations. Something is clearly not what it seems to be with the dashing Mr. Bataglia. Mackenzie - with help from her father, a retired detective - is determined to uncover the truth, regardless of the consequences.
©2015 Matthew O'Connell (P)2018 Matthew O'Connell

Review:
Mackenzie is excited to begin her new career as a restorer of fine art at the prestigious Cloisters Museum. She is partnered to work under a renowned restorer, a handsome Italian, Anthony Bataglia. Anthony specializes in restorations of pre-Renaissance works. He is quiet and dedicated and Mackenzie is learning as he mentors her, showing her how to inspect every corner and inch of the work, documenting any deterioration in color, paint medium, canvas, condition or other unusual anomalies.

Mackenzie notices an unusual detail regarding women in several paintings as well as a mystery about the signatures. Mackenzie’s father is a retired cop who has reason to be interested in art anomalies due to an old forgery case. They discuss the details of Mackenzie’s research and turn up some more interesting facts. Mackenzie’s investigation brings a possibility of romance while revealing some surprises and twists that are unique and fun.

The plot details are engaging and kept me eagerly listening. The historical elements of the paintings and the detailed explanation of restoration are very fascinating. The descriptions would pull in any art lover and even those of us who are familiar with some art periods and styles but are in no way art authorities. I recommend this to mystery lovers as well as art lovers.

Audio Notes: Susan Fouche does a wonderful job with the narration. She provides appropriate voices and energies to each of the characters. The presentation is clear and flows easily. I enjoyed this and highly recommend the audio version.

Source: Author Marketing Experts. This qualifies for my Audiobook and Alphabet Challenges.

#NetGalley Book Review: Talon - epic fantasy novel (The Astor Chronicles Book 1) by Amanda Greenslade

I really like this fantasy adventure with animal shifters and a battle of good and evil.

Talon - epic fantasy novel (The Astor Chronicles Book 1)
by Amanda Greenslade

File Size: 3502 KB
Print Length: 278 pages
Publisher: Australian eBook Publisher; 1 edition (April 1, 2016)
ASIN: B01BOGSCM6
Genre: Action & Adventure, Fantasy, Sword & Sorcery
My Rating: 4.5 of 5.0

With a newly awakened icetiger for his companion, Talon is finally learning the magic of the Kriite people, including telepathy and shape-changing. After his home town Jaria is attacked by Zeikas he embarks on a mission to seek help.
Before Talon even understands the power within him, there are demon summoners after him. He is horrified to learn that the Zeika leader plans to use Talon’s body and mind to further his ambition for power. Bal Harar is on a god-given mission to enslave or kill all Kriites.
Talon represents both the greatest threat and the greatest opportunity to the Zeikas—his actions and faith will make all the difference between the two.

Review:
Talon is on the cusp of manhood when he finally meets his ‘Rada-kin”, the animal companion which allows his telepathy and shifter skills to emerge. Talon’s special animal is a powerful icetiger which brings him quick respect from most of his clan. Talon’s people are Kriites who believe in a loving God (Krii) who takes the shape of a wolf and who helps the people through ‘magic’ of nature and spirit. Although the Kriites want to live in peace, they are being enslaved and killed by the cruel Zeikas who consider those who believe in any God but theirs (Zei) as inferior infidels.

The Zeikas have powerful magic which includes demon summoning but they do not have the strength of the telepathy that the Kriites have. A ruthless Zeika leader, Bar Harrar, believes he can take over Talon’s magical skills – or he will eliminate him if his plan to control him doesn’t work.

Talon’s town is attacked as the Zeikas seek to capture him. The town elders send Talon on a quest to discover the full extent of his powers hoping he can return as a strong leader to help them. They agree that a visiting ambassador, Sarlice, who has more experience, can serve as Talon’s guide to first travel together to seek the King’s assistance and protection against the Zeikas for their respective clans. The two young adults set off with their animal companions to make the dangerous journey with enemy Zeikas abounding and hope of allies unsure.

The characters are nicely developed with relatable emotions. I enjoyed the fun interaction between Talon and his icetiger as they get to know each other and their world perspectives. The world building is creative and workable and there is plenty of fighting action to keep things interesting. It was clear early in the story that this has allegorical elements of Christian faith, love and peace having to face a world full of wicked, evil, power seeking enemies. I like the good versus evil battle aspects as well as the telepathic and animal shifter magic so it is an engaging package for me.

The book is a good start to a series and ends with the companions being chased into the next mysterious land for Talon’s quest. I will be looking to pick up the next book. This is appropriate for YA reading but I recommend this to all readers who enjoy fantasy with sword play and shape shifting.

Source: NetGalley 2017. This qualifies for 2018TBR, NetGalley and Alphabet Challenges.

#NetGalley Book Review: Science Geek Sam and his Secret Logbook by Cees Dekker and Corien Oranje

This is a fun read sharing creation and scientific theories.
Science Geek Sam and his Secret Logbook
by Cees Dekker (Author), Corien Oranje (Author), Perta van Rijssen (Illustrator)

File Size: 3464 KB
Print Length: 208 pages
Publisher: Lion Children's Books (October 20, 2017)
ASIN: B079YX2X9B
Genre: Children, Creation Theories
My Rating: 4.0 of 5.0

"I'm afraid you're at the top end of the healthy weight range," said the doctor. This is doctor's speak for "you are FAT"! "Do you know how much I'd weigh if I was on Pluto?" "No idea," replied the doctor. "Only 2.3 kilograms. Practically nothing!" Meet Sam, science geek extraordinaire, and have an exclusive peek at his top secret logbook. When a meteorite crashes into Sam’s school bike shed, his class have a LOT of questions about space, the universe, and life on earth. But can they believe in God AND the Big Bang? They make some cool discoveries that show them that, surprisingly, the answer is a clear yes. A fact-filled and thought-provoking story that will make you chuckle.

Review:
Sam is a ten or eleven year old (based on highest grade in primary school) who loves science. His Uncle Jack is a science professor. When a meteorite crashes on the bike shed at Sam’s school, Uncle Jack is one of the experts called in to investigate. Many questions arise from the meteorite crash and Sam’s teacher, Mr. Nolan, decides to set up a “People Library” to bring in people with expertise to share knowledge and answer questions for the students.

Uncle Jack is one of the speakers who comes in to explain the scientific aspects of the meteorite, planets and the universe. In the process he describes the science of the Big Bang. However, Sam’s school is a Christian school and some of the parents are alarmed that the students are being taught science facts that might conflict with the beliefs they have been taught. The students hear from other people about God’s Creation but there are still conflicting arguments.

Mr. Nolan arranges a week-long camping trip for the class where the students can visit a museum, a planetarium and get some hands-on experience as well as researching their questions.
Not everyone is thrilled with the idea of “camping out”. When they go, there are conflicts among the students, but they work through issues and end up having a great week.

The story is told in a very fun fashion through Sam’s journaling, narrating and email exchanges, mostly with Uncle Jack. There are fun interactions and incidents with the students that add a personal element of appropriate aged fun.

Sam is a curious ‘science geek’ and the book is packed with tidbits of information about things such as meteors, stars, fossils and even DNA. Throughout the book there are weblinks and scan codes to explore the facts and theories that are discussed. I thought this was very clever and hope young people would take advantage to see the additional resources.

The authors do an engaging job of sharing scientific arguments and Christian foundations of creation. The authors make a presentation that allows a merger of Biblical and scientific elements, allowing for God to have created the world over a long period of time. The overall package encourages young people to be open minded in their studies of creation and science.

The book combines the scientific knowledge and evangelist faith of Cees Dekker with the fun writing skills of child author Corien Oranje. The illustrations by Perta van Rijssen are basic, fun and fitting to add to the story. I don’t agree totally with the science that is presented but I thought the method of sharing the arguments was fun and thought provoking.

Source: NetGalley (Jan 2018). This qualifies for NetGalley and 2018 Alphabet Challenges.

##NetGalley Book Review: Zen Pencils: Cartoon Quotes from Inspirational Folks by Gavin Aung Than

This cartoon offering is very different from my usual read.

Zen Pencils: Cartoon Quotes from Inspirational Folks
by Gavin Aung Than

File Size: 60076 KB
Print Length: 176 pages
Publisher: Andrews McMeel Publishing (November 11, 2014)
ASIN: B00JKNMFWY
Genre: Cartoon, Comic Strip, Self-Help
My Rating: 4.0 of 5.0

Gavin Aung Than, an Australian graphic designer turned cartoonist, started the weekly Zen Pencils blog in February 2012. He describes his motivation for launching Zen Pencils: "I was working in the boring corporate graphic design industry for eight years before finally quitting at the end of 2011 to pursue my passion for illustration and cartooning. At my old job, when my boss wasn't looking, I would waste time reading Wikipedia pages, mainly biographies about people whose lives were a lot more interesting than mine. Their stories and quotes eventually inspired me to leave my job to focus on what I really wanted to do. The idea of taking these inspiring quotes, combining them with my love of drawing and sharing them with others led to the creation of Zen Pencils."

Review:
I don’t read too many cartoon style books and I thought this would be fun. It is fun with the author sharing some great quotes with unique and wonderful illustrations. My favorites were The Two Wolves, To Love at All (C.S. Lewis) and Invictus-- a Tribute to Nelson Mandela. All three of these are favorite quotes or poems of mine so it’s not surprising I liked them. I liked how Mr. Than matched the images to the literary works.

There are many other inspirational pieces with unique comic strips expressing emotions for each piece. The only thing that troubled me was some of the illustrations have very angry faces. We have enough terrible rage and mean-spiritedness in the world. I can appreciate the emotional intensity but I don’t think the terrible anger expressed is suitable for young people or a book promoting “zen”. I guess I have always associated “zen” with calm and peace although it is more accurately a focus of togetherness of mind and body in tune with natural intuition. Apparently the anger aspects did not bother other reviewers.

I read this on my tablet so I could experience the color comics. The set up allows expanding individual frames which I found interesting. I think the book might work even better in print but it worked fine on tablet too. Except for the anger emotions, I would recommend this as a unique presentation of inspiring words.

Source: NetGalley 2017. This qualifies for 2018TBR, NetGalley and Alphabet Challenges.

Audible Book Review: The Dispatcher by John Scalzi

This is a different future dilemma and a good mystery.
The Dispatcher
By: John Scalzi
Narrated by: Zachary Quinto

Length: 2 hrs and 19 mins
Unabridged Audiobook
Release date: 10-04-16
Language: English
Publisher: Audible Studios
Genre: Fantasy, Mystery, Sci Fi
My Rating: 4.5 of 5.0

Publisher's Summary
Earphones Award Winner (AudioFile Magazine)
Winner, 2017 APA Audie Awards - Original Work
Zachary Quinto - best known for his role as the Nimoy-approved Spock in the recent Star Trek reboot and the menacing, power-stealing serial killer, Sylar, in Heroes - brings his well-earned sci-fi credentials and simmering intensity to this audio-exclusive novella from master storyteller John Scalzi.
One day, not long from now, it becomes almost impossible to murder anyone - 999 times out of a thousand, anyone who is intentionally killed comes back. How? We don't know. But it changes everything: war, crime, daily life.
Tony Valdez is a Dispatcher - a licensed, bonded professional whose job is to humanely dispatch those whose circumstances put them in death's crosshairs, so they can have a second chance to avoid the reaper. But when a fellow Dispatcher and former friend is apparently kidnapped, Tony learns that there are some things that are worse than death and that some people are ready to do almost anything to avenge a supposed wrong.
It's a race against time for Valdez to find his friend before it's too late...before not even a Dispatcher can save him.
©2016 John Scalzi (P)2016 Audible, Inc.

Review:
It is a future time and murder is almost impossible. Not because there are no criminals or bad people. They can kill, but 99.9% of the victims vanish and wake up at home or a familiar, safe place… and alive. A few people train to become licensed “Dispatchers”. The Dispatchers are called in to ‘dispatch' people who are about to die, whether from a violent act, during surgery gone wrong or an accident. It takes a special person to be able to deal with the emotions and consequences and Tony Valdez is such a person.

A local police detective calls on Tony to help find a fellow Dispatcher who has gone missing. Tony and the man used to be friends but the man’s wife blames Tony for introducing her husband to a shadier part of dispatching -- undocumented or “under the table” jobs. The police detective is sure that Tony can uncover clues even if he is forced to work against his will.

It is clear from the beginning of the story that not everyone approves of the job of a Dispatcher. There are tensions and ethical considerations to explore. Who knew that the aspect of ‘licensed to kill” could be a fun premise for a mystery. Well, obviously talented author John Scalzi figured this out. I enjoyed the quick detective investigation and the sometimes-brash dialogue and interaction between characters. I also liked the clever (albeit cruel) methods for killing that are used.

This does not have the humor aspects readers might associate with Scalzi. However, it has the Scalzi imagination and creativity. This is a short story but I could see it being a premise for other mysteries. I recommend this to mystery and fantasy/sci fi fans.

Audio Notes: Zachary Quinto did a great job with the narration. He nails the tone without infusing excess emotion. This fit the darker nature of the mystery. The narration enhanced my enjoyment of the story.

Source: 2/16/18 Audible Daily Deal $.99. This qualifies for Audiobook and Alphabet Challenges.

#NetGalley Book Review: The Year of the Knife by G.D. Penman

This is strange but entertaining urban fantasy.

The Year of the Knife
by G.D. Penman

File Size: 1827 KB
Print Length: 236 pages
Publisher: Meerkat Press, LLC (November 28, 2017)
ASIN: B074PCTG14
Genre: Alternate History, Fantasy, Urban Fantasy
(This does have a f/f romance but I would not call this lesbian romance as it is a side element -- IMO)
My Rating: 4.0 of 5.0

"An addictive blend of magic and murder noir." -Gareth L. Powell, BSFA award-winning author of Ack-Ack Macaque
Agent "Sully" Sullivan is one of the top cops in the Imperial Bureau of Investigation. A veteran witch of the British Empire who isn’t afraid to use her magical skills to crack a case. But Sully might need more than a good education and raw power to stop the string of grisly murders that have been springing up across the American Colonies. Every one of them marked by the same chilling calling card, a warning in the form of a legion of voices screaming out through the killers' mouths: "It IS tHe YEAr oF the KNife."
Sully’s investigation will drag her away from the comforts of home in New Amsterdam, the beautiful but useless hyacinth macaw that used to be her boss, and the loving arms of her undead girlfriend, in a thrilling race against time, demonic forces and a shadowy conspiracy that will do anything to keep its hold on power and ensure that Sully takes their secrets to her grave, as soon as possible.
G.D. Penman’s imaginative The Year of the Knife is a fun, fast-paced urban fantasy mystery with an engaging set of characters, most notably Agent Sully of the Imperial Bureau of Investigation.

Review:
Sully is a top cop in the Imperial Bureau of Investigation (IBI). She is a tough witch who often uses her magical skills to help solve a case or take down a culprit. Her department is dragged into a grisly investigation in the American Colonies. Bodies seem to be possessed by an evil that sends them on a killing rampage leaving the message "It IS tHe YEAr oF the KNife." Sully's initial confrontations with the killers don’t go well. She keeps trying to save the civilians and even the possessed killers, but the results aren’t working out as she ends up with serious collateral damage.

Although Sully is strongly dedicated to her work chasing down monster criminals, she has issues with her IBI office recognizing the political problems that exist. The prior Director, whose name no one can remember, has been turned into a Macaw nesting in his office which has been commandeered by the current Deputy Director. Like the missing name spell, there is a key word that is hidden by powerful magic that is hindering the investigation.

Sully first seeks the help of a rather ghoulish (in a twisted fun character) coroner who loves experimenting with the corpses brought in for autopsy. When Raavi can only provide limited information, Sully pulls in a master magician and even consults with a demon trapped in a doll (shades of Chucky or Annabelle).

In her personal life Sully is trying to keep it under wraps that she is hooking up with her former lover who is now a vampire – a species generally killed off or exiled. Marie gives encouragement to Sully but also puts her mission at risk.

The story is full of action with magic and monsters. This is a bit zany as it bounces from murder scene to consulting scene. The dialogue is snarky and fun. Sully's sexual orientation is upfront and her relationship with Marie is an interesting side thread that is nicely handled. My favorite extra element is the alternate reality/history which is revealed slowly at first, emerging more strongly as the book progresses.

My last note on the reading was “How do authors think up this crazy stuff?” I do recommend this to readers who like urban fantasy and want something out of the ordinary.

Source: NetGalley 2017. This qualifies for 2018TBR, NetGalley and Alphabet Challenges.

Audible Book Review: Frankenstein: Prodigal Son by Dean Koontz

Surprisingly engaging with underlying questions.

Frankenstein: Prodigal Son

By: Dean Koontz

Narrated by: Christopher Lane

Series: Frankenstein, Book 1

Series: Frankenstein, Book 1
Length: 9 hrs and 3 mins
Unabridged Audiobook
Release date: 12-04-17
Language: English
Publisher: Brilliance Audio
Genre: Horror
My Rating: Story 4.0 of 5.0; Narration 5.0

Publisher's Summary
From the celebrated imagination of Dean Koontz comes a powerful reworking of one of the classic stories of all time. If you think you know the legend, you know only half the truth. Here is the mystery, the myth, the terror, and the magic of...
Every city has its secrets. But none as terrible as this. He is Deucalion, a tattooed man of mysterious origin, a sleight-of-reality artist who has traveled the centuries with a secret worse than death. He arrives in New Orleans as a serial killer stalks the streets, a killer who carefully selects his victims for the humanity that is missing in himself. Deucalion's path will lead him to cool, tough police detective Carson O'Connor and her devoted partner, Michael Maddison, who are tracking the slayer but will soon discover signs of something far more terrifying: an entire race of killers who are much more - and less - than human and, deadliest of all, their deranged, near-immortal maker: Victor Helios - once known as Frankenstein.
©2005 Dean Koontz (P)2017 Brilliance Publishing, Inc., all rights reserved.

Review:
The story caught my interest from the start. Further in I didn't want to put it down. I was fully engaged and enjoying the characters (the good guys). The primary villain is horrible and it is fascinating to see how his creations are slowly breaking out of his planned control. I was captured by the narration and intrigued at the implications of seeking happiness and meaning in life by the created monsters. I was caught up in the protagonist's transformation .. and then the ending! Arrgh! I had forgotten this was the first in a series.

I was surprised by the imagination and depth, although perhaps I shouldn’t have been since Koontz is a well known and accomplished author. I know some of his books are off the edge horror, but this one is creepy and wonderfully strange without being really scary horror.

I found this to be a little drawn out to get where it is going. Still, the characters, including villains, are well drawn and the story moves well. I recommend this for those who enjoy the idea of a Frankenstein monster with a heart fighting a truly evil megalomaniac.

Audio Notes: I found the narration by Christopher Lane to be spot on for the tone and intent of the story. It is a great entertaining experience.

Koontz is the author of one of my favorite time travel titles: Lightning.
Source: Audible Daily Deal $3.95 6/3/2018. This qualifies for Audiobook Challenge and 2018 title for Alphabet Challenge.

#NetGalley Book Review: The After War by Brandon Zenner

This is an engaging post-apocalyptic story.
The After War: (Book One of The After War Series)
by Brandon Zenner

File Size: 4254 KB
Print Length: 445 pages
Publication Date: October 20, 2016
ASIN: B01JMS9CA4
Genre: Dystopian, Post-Apocalyptic
My Rating: 4.5 of 5.0.

Two years have passed since humankind faced extinction: Two cousins are leaving the protection of their underground bunker for the first time, after a cataclysmic war and unrelenting disease ravaged the earth. On the other side of North America, a young survivalist is leaving the seclusion of his cabin deep in the woods, traveling with his aging canine companion, Winston. For individual reasons, these men are traveling east, where the fragmented lives of a small number of survivors will soon be decided by the choices of a corrupt few. Although they are not yet aware, the strength that resides inside them will soon be tested, and destiny will call for their fates to be forever intertwined. "A fierce post-apocalyptic story of war and loss, of nature's vengeance, of survival in the face of overwhelming odds." - Manhattan Book Reviews

Review:
Brian and Steve are best friends/cousins. They have lived together for two years in a well-supplied bunker hoping to survive the plague and chaos that hit America. Steve is a huge ‘bear’ of a fellow who goes in to red rages. He relies strongly on Brian to help him deal with day to day living and navigating when people are around. They were unhappy to leave friends on the surface but they promised to stay hidden for two years and then set out on their goal. They are to travel to collect Steve’s sister, Bethany, from her bunker states away. Then they are to continue east to find Bethany and Steve’s Uncle who was in the military and had some foreknowledge of the troubles to come.

Simon and his dog, Winston, emerge from a secluded cabin in the Canadian woods on the edge of America. They too are headed east to meet up with his wealthy, political family who sent him off shortly before the devastating war began two years earlier. Simon is a skilled naturalist who embraces nonviolence but is also an adept tracker with hidden warrior abilities.

Both character groups (and that includes wonderful Winston) face danger, evil and heart ache as they travel. There are some calm experiences but those don’t last long. Eventually their paths will intersect as they come together in a tense battle to save their communities from a brutal, megalomaniac, evil tyrant.

The first part of the book follows the travelers in alternating chapters fill in their histories as well as their encounters on the journey. The second part shows the communities where they arrive and find a chance at home and future. The writing moves well with good action set with mostly realistic scenes and dialogue. There are some situations which aren't fully believable such as Simon’s successful hunt first time out and Brian and Steve dumping food cans at the edge of their camp and being generally careless in their travels. On the other hand, I really liked the tidbits of natural food spources and cures the author shares through Simon’s character.

All of the main characters are well developed and had me rooting for their success. The chaos, devastation, greed and survival by theft and violence seem all too real and plausible. There are secondary characters in the mercenary tribes who are terrifyingly evil. I was able to guess some of the problems that would be faced but there were some surprise events too. It was a nice change to have a story with real (sadly enough) evil rather than zombies. There is violence and some, but not excessive, foul language.

This is a strong post-apocalyptic/dystopia story that kept my attention from beginning to end. I recommend this to readers who enjoy the genre.

Source: 2017 NetGalley. This qualifies for 2018TBR, NetGalley and Alphabet Challenges.

#NetGalley Book Review: The Voice Inside by Brian Freeman

This is a well written psychological thriller with a gruesome killer.

The Voice Inside: A Thriller (Frost Easton Book 2)
by Brian Freeman

File Size: 4052 KB
Print Length: 348 pages
Publisher: Thomas & Mercer (January 16, 2018)
ASIN: B01N6J535R
Genre: Crime, Psychological Thrillers
My Rating: 4.5 of 5.0

In the follow-up to bestselling psychological thriller The Night Bird, a serial killer mistakenly set free becomes a city’s worst nightmare—and a detective’s deadliest challenge.
Four years after serial killer Rudy Cutter was sent away for life, San Francisco homicide inspector Frost Easton uncovers a terrible lie: his closest friend planted false evidence to put Cutter behind bars. When he’s forced to reveal the truth, his sister’s killer is back on the streets.
Desperate to take Cutter down again, the detective finds a new ally in Eden Shay. She wrote a book about Cutter and knows more about him than anyone. And she’s terrified. Because for four years, Cutter has been nursing revenge day after stolen day.
Staying ahead of the game of a killer who’s determined to strike again is not going to be easy. Not when Frost is battling his own demons. Not when the game is becoming so personal. And not when the killer’s next move is unlike anything Frost expected.

Review:
Frost Easton lost his younger sister to a serial killer four years ago. Frost became a homicide inspector to fight foes like killer Rudy Cutter. But someone sneaks into Frost’s home to make him follow evidence that his best friend on the force, Jen, planted the piece of evidence that sent Cutter to jail. Frost struggles with the evidence: should he bury it or turn it in to his chief? When the truth is revealed Cutter is back on the streets and Jen is off the force.

Although the police try to follow Cutter he slips away and soon death stalks Frost and his friends. Frost gets help from author Eden Shay who suffered her own trauma as a young woman and is writing a true crime story about Cutter and his victims. Cutter seems to be one step ahead as Frost tries to find enough untainted evidence to put Cutter back behind bars.

The tension in this story is well developed from beginning to end. Cutter is a creepy, conniving, cruel killer. Frost is a real, conflicted hero and I liked his honest character as he tries to listen to the quiet voice inside. The writing is direct and moves along well. I enjoyed the twists in each chapter that keep it interesting all the way to the big twist at the end. I didn’t read the first book and this one read fine as a standalone. I may want to pick that title up. I recommend this to readers who like a well-written psychological thriller.

Source: 2017 NetGalley. This qualifies for 2018TBR, NetGalley and Alphabet Challenges.

Audible Book Review: The Cruel Prince by Holly Black

This is an entertaining YA story with some good twists.
The Cruel Prince
By: Holly Black
Narrated by: Caitlin Kelly

Length: 12 hrs and 36 mins
Unabridged Audiobook
Release date: 01-02-18
Language: English
Publisher: Hachette Audio
Genre: Bullying, Fae, Fantasy, YA
My Rating: 4.0 of 5.0

Publisher's Summary
By number-one New York Times best-selling author Holly Black, the first book in a stunning new series about a mortal girl who finds herself caught in a web of royal faerie intrigue.
Of course I want to be like them. They're beautiful as blades forged in some divine fire. They will live forever.
And Cardan is even more beautiful than the rest. I hate him more than all the others. I hate him so much that sometimes when I look at him, I can hardly breathe.
Jude was seven years old when her parents were murdered and she and her two sisters were stolen away to live in the treacherous High Court of Faerie. Ten years later, Jude wants nothing more than to belong there, despite her mortality. But many of the fey despise humans. Especially Prince Cardan, the youngest and wickedest son of the High King.
To win a place at the Court, she must defy him - and face the consequences.
In doing so, she becomes embroiled in palace intrigues and deceptions, discovering her own capacity for bloodshed. But as civil war threatens to drown the Courts of Faerie in violence, Jude will need to risk her life in a dangerous alliance to save her sisters, and Faerie itself.
©2018 Holly Black (P)2018 Hachette Audio

Review:
Jude is a human teen who was taken from the human world at the age of seven to live with her half-sister’s father in the High Court of Faerie. As a typical teen might, Jude longs to fit in but the Fae look down on human mortals. She is especially taunted by the cruel Prince Carlan, the youngest son of the High King. Jude’s fae foster-“father” is a high guard. He is harsh and would defend Jude and her sister’s if he had any idea of the tricks and pain the fae children are causing.
But Jude is too proud to ask him for help. However, she has asked him to allow her to fight in the upcoming competitions in hopes she may be apprenticed. He denies the request to fight for an apprenticeship, but Jude becomes embroiled in the High Court intrigues after battling with Prince Carlan in public.

There are conspiracies ongoing as the children of the High King conspire to obtain the crown that he is soon turning over. A middle son is deemed to be the likely successor, but the eldest son will not take that well. When the time for the announcement comes, death comes to the royal family and division in the kingdom is clear and threatens more than just the royal family.

There is a surprise descendant who has been kept secret. Jude has uncovered the secret and now has to determine what she and a handful of friends can do to protect the future of Faerie and the humans who are captured to serve. There are several twists before the story concludes.

The characters and world building of Faerie pulled me in. This is my first read with this author and she clearly has a knack for well developed world building, characters and drama. The story moves along well and manages to be interesting despite bullying characters and teen angst. The fae youth are horrendously arrogant and cruel which is unpleasant. I did like Jude’s strength and determination even if I couldn’t always agree with her motives and methods. The friends that she develops add good elements to the story. The package is entertaining, and I recommend it to readers who enjoy fantasy involving humans caught in fae magic.

Audio Notes: Caitlin Kelly does a fine job with the narration. The characters were portrayed with distinct, appropriate voices and the emotions and pacing were handled well. The narration enhanced my enjoyment of the story.

Source: 2018 Win from Bookish Owl. This qualifies for Audiobook Challenge and 2018 Alphabet title.

Audible Book Review: The Search by Nora Roberts

This is solid romantic suspense with the bonus of dog training tips.

The Search
By: Nora Roberts
Narrated by: Tanya Eby

Length: 14 hrs and 53 mins
Unabridged Audiobook
Release date: 07-06-10
Language: English
Publisher: Brilliance Audio
Genre: Contemporary, Romantic Suspense
My Rating: 4.0 of 5.0

Publisher's Summary
To most people, Fiona Bristow seems to have an idyllic life: a quaint house on an island off Seattle’s coast, a thriving dog-training school, and a challenging volunteer job performing canine search and rescue. Not to mention her three intensely loyal Labs. But Fiona got to this point by surviving a nightmare.
Several years ago, she was the only survivor of a serial killer - a madman who stalked and abducted young women, strangled them, and left them buried with a red scarf on their bodies. As authorities were closing in on the Red Scarf Killer, he shot and killed Fiona’s cop fiancé and his K-9 partner.
On Orcas Island, Fiona has found the peace and solitude she needed to rebuild her life. Yet all that changes on the day Simon Doyle barrels up her drive, desperate for her help. He’s the reluctant owner of an out-of-control puppy, foisted upon him by his mother. Jaws has eaten through Simon’s house, and he’s at his wit’s end.
To Fiona, Jaws is nothing she can’t handle. Simon is another matter. A newcomer to Orcas, he’s a rugged and intensely private artist, known for creating exquisite furniture. Simon never wanted a puppy, and he most definitely doesn’t want a woman. Besides, the lanky redhead is not his type. But tell that to the laws of attraction.
As Fiona embarks on training Jaws and as Simon begins to appreciate both dog and trainer, the past tears back into Fiona’s life. A copycat killer has emerged out of the shadows, a man whose bloodlust has been channeled by a master with one motive: to reclaim the woman who slipped out of his hands.
©2010 Nora Roberts (P)2010 Brilliance Audio, Inc.

Review:
Fiona escaped from a serial killer several years ago. Fiona's experience from the past has shaped who she is today - fiercely independent and determined not to be a victim again. She has a successful business training dogs…and their owners. She is also an important leader in the local search and rescue team.

Simon is an interesting male protagonist. His mother gave him a puppy and he, or really they, need serious help. He is very singular, insular... until love sneaks up on him. There is good involvement with the dog training which fills a lot of the story.

This is solid romantic suspense The suspense with the serial killer is almost almost secondary to the romantic development. Of course the danger sets Simon into a protective mode even as he begins reluctantly.

There are a couple of rescue searches that add to the depth of the story. The story moves at a good pace with good blending of the dog training techniques, romantic tension and underlying danger. There is more of the "f" word than I like but I was able to skip over it for the most part.

Nora Roberts is pretty reliable as an author delivering strong characters and romance with good tension. I recommend this to readers who like dog training and romantic suspense.

Audio Notes: Tanya Eby's narration isn't the best that I have heard. It is a little soft and has a sort of choppy delivery. After awhile I got used to it and fortunately the story carried the presentation.

Source: 2012 Audible Credit Purchase. This qualifies for 2018TBR and Audiobook Challenge.

#NetGalley Book Review: Queendom of the Seven Lakes (Legends of the Godskissed Continent) by A B Endacott

I liked this engaging fantasy adventure.

Queendom of the Seven Lakes (Legends of the Godskissed Continent)
by A B Endacott

File Size: 5133 KB
Print Length: 294 pages
Page Numbers Source ISBN: 0648187519
Publication Date: November 14, 2017
ASIN: B077GTFNG6
Genre: Fantasy, Historical, New Adult
My Rating: 4.25 of 5.0

“Your Majesty, I take life. I am not certain that my skills actually extend to preserving it.”
There are always those who are willing to pay for someone else’s death. Having grown up amongst the Family of Assassins, ELEN-AI knows well the prices people are willing to pay to see their enemies fall quickly, quietly, and discreetly. When she is asked to preserve life rather than take it, she is surprised. Upon hearing that her charge is the Queen’s only child GIDYON, who is secretly being groomed to succeed his mother, she is horrified. To ensure political stability, no man has ever sat on the throne of the Queendom of the Seven Lakes. Yet one does not easily refuse a Queen, and so reluctantly, Elen-ai accepts the contract.
Her fears only deepen upon meeting the sixteen-year-old Prince Gidyon, who treats her as no better than a petty murderer. However, following an attack on his life, Elen-ai is forced to admit that the danger of leaving this boy-prince alone may be even worse than leaving him to his own devices. Elen-ai reluctantly accompanies Gidyon across the country to identify those within the seven most powerful families who are responsible for the attempt on the Prince’s life.
Somewhere in their travels from the calm waters of Lake Tak to the looming cliffs above Lake Bertak, the two form an unlikely yet profound friendship, and Elen-ai begins to see that Gidyon has the makings of a great ruler within him. As they meet with the families of power, it becomes increasingly clear that secrets and power games run far deeper throughout the Queendom of the Seven Lakes than either of them ever suspected.

Review:
Elen-Ai is a member of the Family of Assassins. Elen-Ai has been raised by a community that teaches their trade and craft from very young age. She is a young adult who practices hard to keep her skills sharp. She is surprised when she is hired by the Queen, not as an assassin, but as a guard to the Queen’s only child, her teenaged son. The Queendom is supposed to pass through the female line but she is about to announce that she will pass her position to Prince Gidyon. This is likely to cause a stir and she fears that rival families will seek to kill the boy.

Gidyon resents being baby-sat by a guard almost as much as Elen-Ai resents having to baby sit. But there are rumors and those who could be a threat. Both Gidyon and Elen-Ai are surprised and become cautious when they are attacked on a journey to the country. Instead of turning back, Gidyon insists that they travel on to seek who among the other royal families will be loyal to the Queen’s wishes. The are greeted with welcomes, neutrality, arrogant belligerence and betrayal.

This story shares a strong fantasy world with well-developed characters. I liked Elen-Ai as a shadow assassin guarding the young prince. They both grow as they face danger and change together. I liked the adventure and intrigue and would read more in the series to find out how the characters manage in the next phase. I recommend this to readers who enjoy fantasy with action and intrigue.

Source: 2017 NetGalley. This qualifies for 2018TBR, NetGalley Challenge and "Q" for Alphabet Challenge.

Audible Book Review: The Vanished Man: A Lincoln Rhyme Novel by Jeffery Deaver

This reminded me how much I enjoy forensic mysteries.
The Vanished Man
A Lincoln Rhyme Novel
By: Jeffery Deaver
Narrated by: Adam Grupper

Length: 5 hrs and 28 mins
Abridged Audiobook
Release date: 03-07-03
Language: English
Publisher: Simon & Schuster Audio
Genre: Detective, Police Procedures
My Rating: 4.5 of 5.0

Publisher's Summary
It begins at the prestigious music school in New York City. A killer flees the scene of a homicide and locks himself in a classroom. Within minutes, the police have him surrounded. When the scream rings out, followed by a gunshot, they break down the door. The room is empty.
Lincoln Rhyme and Amelia Sachs are brought in to help with the high-profile investigation. For the ambitious Sachs, solving the case could earn her a promotion. For the quadriplegic Rhyme, it means relying on his protégé to ferret out the master illusionist they've dubbed "the conjurer", who baits them with gruesome murders that become more diabolical with each fresh crime. As the fatalities rise and the minutes tick down, Rhyme and Sachs must move beyond the smoke and mirrors to prevent a terrifying act of vengeance that could become the greatest vanishing act of all.
©2003 Jeffrey Deaver (P)2003 Simon & Schuster, Inc. All Rights Reserved

Review:
Two young officers are first on scene to a murder of a young woman. A security guard called them into a supposedly closed music school where they stumble upon a man hovering over a body. They try to challenge the perp, but he slips out of the room. The officers hear him in the other room as they plan how to trap him. However, when they enter the room he has vanished. Lincoln Rhyme, the bedridden quadriplegic, former detective and his right-hand investigator, Amelia Sachs, are brought in on the investigation. The initial clues lead them to a magic shop where they encounter a young woman who has been studying and practicing the arts of illusion.

Another murder occurs, and it becomes clear that the murderer is using historic illusion tricks and settings. Rhyme and Amelia make progress due in big part to the aid of their budding illusionist. The murderer feels that Lincoln is a threat and he confronts him in a vulnerable situation. Now the case has become personal and Rhyme and Amelia must trap the murderer before Rhyme becomes a victim and before the murderer kills a crowd which they suspect he is going after.

I found the settings and history very interesting. The illusions and slight of hand add to the good suspense. The 'vanished man' continues to be a chameleon, one step ahead of the police. It has been a while since I read (listened) to a forensic mystery and this definitely reminded me why I enjoy them so much. I recommend this to readers who enjoy this genre.

Audio Notes: I was pleased with the narration by Adam Grupper. He adds distinct voices and excellent pausing and energy. I usually listen to unabridged versions, but this shorter version seemed just right for my enjoyment.

Source: 2004 Audible Credit Purchase. This qualifies for 2018TBR, Audiobook and a "V" title for Alphabet Challenge.

eBook Review: Meet Your Match by Lindzee Armstrong

This is a fun, quick prequel drawing me to the first full book in the series.

Meet Your Match (No Match for Love Book 4)
by Lindzee Armstrong

File Size: 2525 KB
Print Length: 117 pages
Publisher: Snowflake Press (April 8, 2015)
ASIN: B00VVU72Y0
Genre: Contemporary Romance, Teen and Young Adult
My Rating: 4.0 of 5.0

Nothing slows love down like the friend zone.
a No Match for Love prequel novella
Sixteen-year-old Brooke Pierce doesn’t need her mom to tell her all boys are trouble. After watching her dad break up the family for a woman half his age, dating is the last thing on her mind.
On the first day at a new high school Brooke meets Luke, the school flirt with a reputation for heartbreak. He’s interested. She’s not. That only makes him chase her more.
After a shocking revelation from her dad, Brooke and Luke form an unexpected bond, complete with crazy rules to keep them safely in the friend zone. Problem is, that’s the worst place to be when you’re falling in love.
Part of the No Match for Love series, Meet Your Match is a delightfully sweet prequel novella that can be read as a stand-alone. It's sure to delight readers who love Hallmark movies and sweet romance. This series combines complex characters with smart dialogue and a fast-paced plot.

Review:
Brooke is sixteen when her parents separate because her dad has an affair with an employee in his office. Brooke’s mom moves them away from the family home and difficult memories. Brooke isn’t thrilled about having to go to a new school and make new friends. On the first day of school Brooke overhears a conversation between cute Luke and his fun friend Chris. Now Brooke is certain she doesn’t want to get caught up with the cute classmates who are clearly players. Brooke is keeping her distance, even more so when she learns her father is still seeing the younger woman even while participating in required counseling.

Luke really wants to go out with Brooke but he agrees to settle for being her friend after he learns all that she is going through and the distrust she has developed. He hopes that at some point she will accept his sincere interest, but his friend Chris isn’t helping with his competitive antics.

Brooke hopes to make a career of match making after she graduates from high school. She has a knack for seeing whether couples are well suited or need to part ways. Unfortunately, this knack doesn’t apply to seeing her own feelings.

I enjoyed this light romance which reads very quickly. The characters a natural and I appreciated that the story is clean and suitable for YA. There is a sense of frustration as one part of me felt Brooke was being too cautious with Luke but the other said “good thing, they are so young”. The ending leaves the reader hanging. Although this is listed as “book 4” it is actually the prequel to the series. I do want to get the first full book to see what happens. I recommend this to readers who enjoy clean, young romance.

Source: 2017 Author Newsletter Sign up. This qualifies for 2018TBR and Alphabet Challenge.

Audio Book Review: The Raven Boys by Maggie Stiefvater

This is a YA story with strong, sometimes dark, magic elements.

The Raven Boys
by Maggie Stiefvater
Read by Will Patton

Young Adult Ages 12+ • 11 hrs. • Unabridged • © 2012
Genre: Fantasy, Romance, Teens, YA
My Rating: 4.0 of 5.0

"Do you believe in magic?" Answer that after you've listened to the first title in Stiefvater's new Raven Boys series. Narrator Will Patton takes you into a world of psychic powers, legends of the Welsh King Glendower, and the ley lines (mystical energy fields) that transect a sleepy Virginia town. Patton inhabits young Blue Sargent, who is raised in a family of psychics but whose own power amplifies what others see or sense. Blue is justly wary of the boys from the elite private academy, known as the Raven Boys. Listeners, like Blue, are fascinated and snared by the quest for Glendower led by Raven Boy Gansey. Patton is masterful with the suspense and the mysticism and seductively plays the emotional line of real and imagined events. Don't miss this compelling listen, and pray that Will Patton has already signed on for the other titles of the series. R.F.W. Winner of AudioFile Earphones Award © AudioFile 2012, Portland, Maine [Published: SEPTEMBER 2012]

Review:
Blue is a teen who has been raised by a psychic mother and two other eccentric female relatives. Blue isn’t psychic but her presence amplifies the skills of the others. Blue’s mother has drilled into her how she can’t trust boys… not only because they are male but also because of a unique reading for Blue herself and what will happen to the first boy she loves.

The Raven Boys are mostly wealthy young students of the local elite academy. The strongest of these boys, Gansey, gathers others around who need his help even as they resist his handouts and leadership. Gansey is stubbornly set on finding the ley lines that will lead to Welsh King Glendower and a legendary favor.

But Gansey isn’t the only one seeking the powers of the lines and the favor of the legend. And at least one of these seekers is willing to try any ritual and go to any lengths to be the first to find the lines.

I really liked the Wolves of Mercy Falls series by Ms. Stiefvater so I have been meaning to try this. I liked Blue and her strange family. I also liked the varied Raven Boys and was surprised by the revelation of one of the characters. The rival seeker is an evil man and poses great danger. The story is a bit disjointed, as it jumps among the characters and scenes. Still, it is very entertaining. I may not get the rest of the series as I enjoy werewolves more than relying on magical elements. I would recommend this to readers who enjoy stories about ley lines and magic – some good, some bad.

Audio Notes: I thoroughly enjoyed the narration by Will Patton. His voice is whispery to fit the magical tone and he delivers the characters with good personality, emotion and energy. I am glad I listened to this.

Source: 2013 SYNC.This qualifies for 2018TBR, Audio Book and Alphabet ("R" title) Challenges.