Audible Book Review: Disney Junior Storybook Collection

My granddaughter and I enjoyed listening to this (while I fell asleep for nap).
Disney Junior Storybook Collection
Sofia the First, Doc McStuffins, Jake and the Neverland Pirates, Mickey/Minnie, Henry Hugglemonster
By: Disney Book Group
Narrated by: Emily Woo Zeller

Length: 1 hr and 54 mins
Unabridged Audiobook
Release date: 08-19-16
Language: English
Publisher: Disney
Genre: Children's
My Rating: 4.0 of 5.0 Overall; Story 4.0; Narration 4.25.

Publisher's Summary
Explore Enchancia with Sofia the First, and sail the Never Sea with Jake and his crew. Help Doc diagnose her toy patients; hang out at the Clubhouse with Mickey, Minnie, and the rest of the gang; and have a roarsome time with Henry Hugglemonster! This fun-filled book features 18 stories starring your favorite Disney Junior pals!
©2016 Disney Book Group (P)2016 Blackstone Audio, Inc.

Review:
I purchased this audiobook with my grandchildren in mind. Our seven year old knows all of the characters and I met some new ones. We enjoyed sharing quiet time as we listened to several stories at a time. Many of the stories shared a good moral which we discussed briefly (for the times I remained awake).

I recommend this to parents with children or grandchildren who could enjoy reading by listening to some of the stories they can find on TV and books. The length of each story fit well into a 20-30 minute setting for a week of sharing.

Audio Notes: Emily Woo Zeller did a great job narrating each story. The delivery is clear and in a storytelling voice that worked for the variety of characters. I enjoyed the listening experience.

Source: 8/2//2017 Audible Book Sale $1.95. This qualifies for 2019TBR and 2019Audiobook goals.

Audible Book Review: Morning Star by Pierce Brown

There is lots of trauma and excitement in this originally planned trilogy conclusion!

Morning Star
By: Pierce Brown
Narrator: Tim Gerard Reynolds

Series: Red Rising, Book 3
Length: 21 hrs and 50 mins
Unabridged Audiobook
Release date: 02-09-16
Language: English
Publisher: Recorded Books
Genre: Colonization Sci Fi, Dystopian, Fantasy, Sci Fi
My Rating: 5.0 of 5.0 Overall; Story 5.0; Narration 5.0.

Publisher's Summary
Darrow would have lived in peace, but his enemies brought him war. The Gold overlords demanded his obedience, hanged his wife, and enslaved his people. But Darrow is determined to fight back. Risking everything to transform himself and breach Gold society, Darrow has battled to survive the cutthroat rivalries that breed Society's mightiest warriors, climbed the ranks, and waited patiently to unleash the revolution that will tear the hierarchy apart from within.
Finally, the time has come.
But devotion to honor and hunger for vengeance run deep on both sides. Darrow and his comrades-in-arms face powerful enemies without scruple or mercy. Among them are some Darrow once considered friends. To win, Darrow will need to inspire those shackled in darkness to break their chains, unmake the world their cruel masters have built, and claim a destiny too long denied - and too glorious to surrender.
©2016 Pierce Brown (P)2016 Recorded Books

Review: (Mild Spoilers)
In the opening chapters, Darrow suffers through mania during solitary captivity. He faces confusion and worse when the box is finally opened and he lies completely humiliated before his enemies, including former friends, now brutal enemy Jackal and mocking Cassius. Then to his surprise, he receives unexpected aid to escape.

Darrow is brought back to health to continue the heart-aching and dangerous rebellion. He still has a handful of friends at his side although some earlier friends have become enemies and it isn’t always clear who might still betray him. Through one near-death experience after another, he faces the continuing possibility that he will lose more friends as the war against the better-equipped Golds escalates.

There are moments of great suspense and sorrow with small triumphs that bridge into the next stage of bitter, gruesome deprivation that accompanies war. Darrow will have to inspire several other levels of society, many slaved Obsidians, Pinks, and Blues, to support the challenge for equality if he wants a chance to win for his own people, the oppressed Reds.

The characters are well developed and wonderfully complex. There is terrible, twisted evil and some surprises. I totally enjoyed the suspense, intrigue and even the dark trauma in this story. Originally this was to be the conclusion but there are two additional books that have been added to the series. My son indicated that I don’t have to start those right away but I was very glad to read/listen to this one while we were visiting as he was eager to share the excitement with me. I highly recommend the first three books for fans of dystopian fantasy.

Audio Notes: Tim Gerard Reynolds does an amazing job with the narration. He captures the complex characters and gives them voices that fit their personalities. It is a rich listening experience.

Source: March 2018 Audible Credit. This qualifies for 2019TBR and 2019Audiobook goals.

Audible Book Review: 12 Days at Bleakly Manor, Once Upon a Dickens Christmas, Book 1, by Michelle Griep

This is a sort of haunted house Christmas Mystery/Romance which I read and enjoyed for Ladies Book Club.
12 Days at Bleakly Manor
Once Upon a Dickens Christmas, Book 1
By: Michelle Griep
Narrated by: Nan McNamara


Length: 5 hrs and 35 mins
Unabridged Audiobook
Release date: 01-11-18
Language: English
Publisher: Oasis Audio
Genre: Christian, Historical Fiction, Mystery, Victorian
My Rating: 4.25 of 5.0 Overall; Story 4.25; Narration 4.25.

Publisher's Summary
A mysterious invitation to spend Christmas at an English manor home may bring danger...and love?
England, 1851: When Clara Chapman receives an intriguing invitation to spend Christmas at an English manor home, she is hesitant yet feels compelled to attend - for if she remains the duration of the 12 day celebration, she is promised a sum of 1,000 pounds.
But is she walking into danger? It appears so, especially when she comes face to face with one of the other guests - her former fiancé, Benjamin Lane.
Imprisoned unjustly, Ben wants revenge on whoever stole his honor. When he's given the chance to gain his freedom, he jumps at it - and is faced with the anger of the woman he stood up at the altar. Brought together under mysterious circumstances, Clara and Ben discover that what they've been striving for isn't what ultimately matters.
What matters most is what Christmas is all about...love.
Pour a cup of tea and settle in for book 1 of the Once upon a Dickens Christmas series - -a pause-resisting Victorian-era holiday tale by Michelle Griep, a listener and critic favorite.
©2017 Shiloh Run Press (P)2017 Oasis Audio

Review:
Clara and Ben were separated on the morning they were to be wed. He was sent to the jail for theft and she was left jilted at the altar believing her fiancé’ had run off with the family fortune.
Clara is struggling out a meager living caring for her elderly aunt and wondering: “Why, God? Why?” She receives a strange invitation that promises her 500 pounds if she spends 12 days at Bleakly Manor. Although a strange request, and reluctant to leave her ailing aunt, Clara welcomes this one chance to restore her circumstance.

Ben believes Clara abandoned him during the rigged trial proceedings and wonders: “Why, God? Why?” When Ben is called to the warden’s office, he suspects that his time to be deported has come. Instead, he is given an invitation that promises his freedom if he stays at Bleakly Manor for 12 days without trying to escape.

As Clara and Ben arrive at the bleak manor house, they realize they are not the only guests invited. There are a handful of others and each person has been promised something unique to their circumstances but only one of the participants can gain the promise by staying the full time. At first, the manor seems warm, if dark, but as soon as everyone has arrived, most of the staff disappears leaving the group to fend for themselves without proper food or warmth.

Tensions are high between Clara and Ben who are shocked to see each other and even more startled when they finally agree to listen to what happened to each other. Soon tensions begin to rise among all of the guests as the conditions deteriorate starting the first morning with an alleged jewel theft. The police inspector guest claims he will investigate but his procedures leave a lot to be desired. Meanwhile, Ben is certain he feels “eye” watching from the halls.

This plot was great fun, reminding me of the Agatha Christie mystery “And Then There Were None” and making me think of the movies Clue or Murder by Death. It appears that I haven’t read enough Dickens recently enough to catch all of the connections to Dickens's characters and locations (Bleak House). Still, I had great fun following the mishaps that helped to eliminate the guests and the dilemmas that Clara and Ben had to face.

I have enjoyed several books by Michelle Griep and look forward to more! I recommend this to fans of Victorian and noir mystery, and clearly to any true Dickens fans.

Audio Notes: Nan McNamara’s narration drew me into the setting and kept me following the characters. I thoroughly enjoyed the audio presentation.

Source: December 2019 Audible Sale purchase $5.24. This qualifies for Ladies Book Club and 2019Audiobook goal.

Audio Book Review: Someone to Care by Mary Balogh

As usual, I enjoyed this Historical Romance by Mary Balogh.

Someone to Care
Written By: Mary Balogh
Narrated By: Rosalyn Landor

Publisher: Recorded Books
Date: May 2018
Duration: 11 hours 25 minutes
Genre: Historical Romance,Romance
My Rating: 4.0 of 5.0 Overall; Story 4.0; Narration 4.25.

Summary:
Once the Countess of Riverdale, Viola Kingsley throws all caution to the wind when adventure calls in the form of a handsome aristocrat. Two years after the death of the Earl of Riverdale, his family has overcome the shame of being stripped of their titles and fortune-except for his onetime countess, Viola. With her children grown and herself no longer part of the social whirl of the ton, she is uncertain where to look for happiness-until quite by accident her path crosses once again with that of the Marquess of Dorchester, Marcel Lamarr. Marcel Lamarr has been a notorious womanizer since the death of his wife nearly twenty years earlier. Viola caught his eye when she herself was a young mother, but she evaded his seduction at the time. A prize that eluded him before, she is all the more irresistible to him now although he is surprised to discover that she is as eager now for the excitement he offers as he is himself. When the two defy convention and run away together, they discover that the ties of respectability are not so easily severed, and pleasure can ensnare you when you least expect it.

Review:
Viola Kingsley has been dealing with the revelation on the death of her husband the Earl of Riverdale, that her marriage was invalid and her children were born out of wedlock. Although the Earl’s true heir is willing to share the estate fortune, Viola has stayed apart and quiet. Her eldest daughter has made a new life and marriage that she is happy with. Her son has taken a commission in the army and her youngest daughter, soon of age to enter society, is still at home with Viola. After a family gathering Viola has a private meltdown. She takes off on her own, not even taking one of the family carriages.

When the rented conveyance results in her being stranded at a nondescript country inn, Viola is surprised to see someone she knows across the room. Marcel Lamarr had flirted with Viola 15 years before but she had told him to go away. Her first marriage was arranged by her father and there was no love between Viola and the Earl but Viola has always been proper and stayed in her duties and circumstances. Viola has accepted that she may not be destined to have a “happy ever after.”

Marcel is a rake who doesn’t believe he is entitled to a normal married life. Marcel sends his brother on home without him so that he can approach Viola. He proposes that they ‘run away’ for a few weeks and to his surprise she agrees.

Marcel isn’t the easiest character to like but Viola is able to pull him out of his shell. I enjoyed their growing relationship and the dilemma they find themselves in when their families discover their tryst. Although these characters flout convention, as usual, Balogh creates a situation of conflict that resolves into a HEA. I recommend this author and this story to those who enjoy historical romance.

Audio Notes: Rosalyn Landor is a wonderful narrator for this genre. Her accents fit the characters and she is able to give each one a voice and fitting personality. I enjoyed listening to this novel.

Source: July 2019 Audiobooks.com two for one credit. This qualifies for 2019Audiobook goal.

Audible Book Review: Orphan X by Gregg Hurwitz

This is a remarkably entertaining suspense with good twists.

Orphan X
By: Gregg Hurwitz
Narrated by: Scott Brick
Series: Evan Smoak, Book 1

Series: Evan Smoak, Book 1
Length: 11 hrs and 15 mins
Unabridged Audiobook
Release date: 01-19-16
Language: English
Publisher: Brilliance Audio
Genre: Crime Thriller, Suspense
My Rating: 4.5 of 5.0 Overall; Story 4.5; Narration 4.5.

Publisher's Summary
The Nowhere Man is a legendary figure spoken about only in whispers. It's said that when he's reached by the truly desperate and deserving, the Nowhere Man can and will do anything to protect and save them.
But he's no legend.
Evan Smoak is a man with skills, resources, and a personal mission to help those with nowhere else to turn. He's also a man with a dangerous past. Chosen as a child, he was raised and trained as part of the off-the-books black box Orphan program, designed to create the perfect deniable intelligence assets - i.e. assassins. He was Orphan X. Evan broke with the program, using everything he learned to disappear.
Now, however, someone is on his tail. Someone with similar skills and training. Someone who knows Orphan X. Someone who is getting closer and closer. And will exploit Evan's weakness - his work as The Nowhere Man - to find him and eliminate him.
Grabbing the listener from the beginning, Orphan X is a masterful thriller, the first in Gregg Hurwitz's electrifying new series featuring Evan Smoak.
©2016 Gregg Hurwitz (P)2015 Brilliance Audio, all rights reserved.

Review:
Evan Smoak was chosen as an orphaned child to become Orphan X. He was raised and trained in an off-the-books Orphan program creating assassins. Unlike most of the Orphans, Evan’s handler wanted to help keep him ‘human’. When events cut Evan off from the program, he chose to become The Nowhere Man. When a truly needy and deserving person calls, Evan responds to help the innocents of the world.

Evan has recently completed one of his good deed rescues and expects a gap before the next call. But a call comes in sooner than he expects. Although he queries the caller he cannot help wondering if this is legitimate. When he meets her and barely dodges a sniper bullet his suspicions increase. But he has rules he tries to follow and one of the most important is to protect the innocents.

Evan has to live a pretty solitary life to protect his secrets. Yet he finds himself being drawn in by others in his apartment building determining that he must step in to help them, even while he is paranoid about hiding his own identity.

A cat and mouse chase ensues as another assassin team has targeted Evan and is threatening innocent people to get him into the open. Suddenly Evan is facing other assassins who are trained as well as he is, including the legendary Orphan O. But even Orphan O has a handler and Evan has to discover who wants him dead, assuming he can stay alive to find out.

I was quickly drawn in by the detailed behaviors of Evan and enjoyed learning more about his history that is shared through flashbacks. He is not just a cold-blooded killer but has a complex and sometimes conflicting morality. There is plenty of action and interesting set up of the safe houses and protective measures needed to keep an assassins cover protected. I enjoyed this thriller and will be picking up more of the series. I recommend this to readers who enjoy good assassin suspense.

Audio Notes: Scott Brick is a good choice for suspense narration. He manages to convey mystery while clearly presenting the complex character of the assassin. The narration helped me to enjoy this suspense.

Source: February 2017 $4.95 Sale purchase at Audible. This qualifies for 2019TBR and 2019Audiobook goals. I may have to use this for my "X" alphabet title this year.

Audio Book Review: The Dogs of Christmas by W. Bruce Cameron

This is a delightful little holiday romance.
The Dogs of Christmas
Written By: W. Bruce Cameron
Narrated By: Kirby Heyborne

Publisher: Tantor Media
Date: October 2013
Duration: 6 hours 14 minutes
Genre: Animals, Dogs, Holiday, Romance
My Rating: 4.0 of 5.0 Overall; Story 4.0; Narration 4.25.

Summary:
While nursing a broken heart, Josh Michaels is outraged when a neighbor abandons his very pregnant dog, Lucy, at Josh's Colorado home. But Josh can't resist Lucy's soulful brown eyes, and though he's never had a dog before, he's determined to do the best he can for Lucy-and her soon-to-arrive, bound-to-be-adorable puppies.
Soon in over his head, Josh calls the local animal shelter for help, and meets Kerri, a beautiful woman with a quick wit and a fierce love for animals. As Kerri teaches Josh how to care for Lucy's tiny puppies and gets them ready to be adopted through the shelter's 'Dogs of Christmas' program, Josh surprises himself by falling for her.
But he's fallen even harder for his new furry family, which has brought incredible joy into Josh's life. He barely has time to sit down, between chasing after adventurous Sophie and brave Oliver, but when he does, his lap is quickly filled by the affectionate Lola. And Rufus and Cody's strong bond makes Josh wonder about his own relationships with his family.
With Christmas and the adoption date looming, Josh finds himself wondering if he can separate himself from his beloved puppies. At odds with Kerri, Josh isn't willing to lose her, but doesn't know how to set things right. Can a surprise litter of Christmas puppies really change one man's life?
W. Bruce Cameron's The Dogs of Christmas is a charming and heartwarming holiday tale that explores the power of love, trust, and a basket full of puppies....

Review:
Josh is nearly a recluse especially after his girlfriend walked away. He wasn’t much of a social fellow anyway as a software programmer who works on the computer from home. He isn’t thrilled when his neighbor delivers his dog to his door claiming he needs Josh to dog sit for the weekend until he can make other arrangements. Then Josh realizes that Lucy, the dog, is very pregnant. Josh has never had a dog, much less puppies. He is practically panicked when he calls the vet. But being the precise person that he is, Josh begins to research how to take care of the dog and puppies.

When Josh seeks help from the local animal shelter, he meets the lovely, strong-minded Kerri. Kerri is more than happy to help and finds herself interested in Josh who is willing to care so diligently for the dogs. The problem is, Josh is becoming attached to Lucy and the puppies. Kerri insists he cannot keep them and she wants to include the puppies to be delivered to new homes as part of the Dogs of Christmas adoption program. But Josh has learned the unique personalities of each dog and isn’t sure anyone else can care for them as he does. He now has a family of his own and doesn’t know how he will give them up.

Josh’s character is a little difficult as, at age 28, he is very socially immature. He becomes flustered like a teen boy in Kerri’s presence. Still, it is sweet and not totally unrealistic for a computer nerd. In addition to the conflict between Josh’s feelings for Kerri and the dogs, Josh’s unresolved feelings for his ex impacts his relationship with Kerri with a little twist.

The story flows well with humor and lovely dog antics, including one that has a handicap. The romance is light and gently presented. I enjoyed the easy, light, sweet story. I recommend it to readers who enjoy dogs and gentle romance.

Audio Notes: Kirby Heyborne does a very nice job with the narration. He aptly portrays the distress, confusion, enthusiasm, and other emotions, especially of the main character. The narration helped me enjoy the story and I would be comfortable listening to other books narrated by Heyborne.

Source: November 2019 $4.99 Sale Purchase at Audiobooks.com. This qualifies for 2019Audiobook goal.

Audible Book Review: Push Back, The Disruption Series, Book 2, by R.E. McDermott

This is a story I didn't want to put down.

Push Back
The Disruption Series, Book 2
By: R.E. McDermott
Narrated by: Kevin Pierce

Series: Disruption, Book 2
Length: 12 hrs and 58 mins
Unabridged Audiobook
Release date: 09-12-16
Language: English
Publisher: R. E. McDermott
Genre: Alternate History, Post-Apocalyptic, Sci-Fi
My Rating: 4.5 of 5.0 Overall; Story 4.5; Narration 4.5.

Publisher's Summary
Earth reels in the aftermath of a savage solar storm, a global disaster of unprecedented proportion which leaves most of the world without electrical power or the means to restore it. Across the world, the responses of unprepared national governments are too little, too late. In the US, order collapses and opportunistic forces rise to fill the power vacuum, as what remains of a self-serving federal bureaucracy prioritizes the survival of politicians and bureaucrats over that of the general population.
As chaos and starvation spread, isolated pockets of survivors unite to survive. In Texas, Captain Jordan Hughes and a ragtag group of seamen and ex-Coastguardsmen gather their families close and resist the depredations of a hoard of escaped convicts. Meanwhile, in North Carolina, a similarly determined group of survivors attempts to use salvaged resources, not only to save themselves, but also to feed the hungry.
But not everyone is happy about the efforts of the valiant and resourceful few. Secure in his Camp David compound, a corrupt president consolidates power and builds a mercenary force to deal with any possible challenges to his absolute authority and to seize all dwindling resources for government use and fair distribution.
Survivors of the natural disaster are thus dealt another blow as they're betrayed by the very government established to protect them. Do they knuckle under to a dictator, or do they push back?
©2016 Robert E. McDermott (P)2016 Robert E. McDermott

Review:
The world has been set into chaos by a solar storm which knocked out electrical power and most normal sources of communication. Some groups have gathered together to share resources and protect one another from others, like gangs of roaming convicts, who would pillage and rape.

This story follows several groups and individuals introduced in Book 1, Under a Tell Tale Sky. Captain Jordan Hughes and a ragtag group of seamen and ex-Coastguardsmen are trying to gather their families onto a flotilla of ships in Texas. As they plan fortifications some of their members set out to travel to Louisiana to seek their own families. Those who travel find friends and foes while those who remain are soon facing attacks by the local convicts who are seeking control. The resistance is building but they are struggling to survive and gather before they can stand and fight.

Meanwhile Congressman Tremble and his son have escaped the FEMA headquarters in Virginia. Tremble is one of the few men living who knows the secret betrayal of the POTUS and corrupt Homeland Security forces. Tremble and his injured son are dodging capture and received help from Wiggins and Tex, two former ship crewmen, who are making their way over the Appalachian Trail to Wiggins’ family in Maine. Another decoy giving some cover for Tremble is former FEMA agent, George Anderson, who has set off on his own. He meets some interesting characters on his beleaguered run. He’d like to find a safe place, but agents are hot on his track.

There is plenty of action to keep the reader/listener interested. There is violence, terror and heartache. I was holding my breath at times. I appreciated the fact that the author doesn’t need to use foul language to fill his story. I have purchased Book 3, Promises to Keep, so I can finish the trilogy ‘next year’. I recommend this series to readers who enjoy post-apocalyptic, action adventures.

Audio Notes: Kevin Pierce is a wonderful narrator. He shares the emotional energy of the story while giving characters their own voices. The narration is enhancing my enjoyment of the series.

Source: July 2018 Audible Credit. This qualifies for 2019TBR and 2019Audiobook goals.

Audio Review: Her Ruthless Protector Caitlyn O'Leary

This is good military intrigue with sexy romance.

Her Ruthless Protector (Amazon Link)
by Caitlyn O’Leary
Narrated by: Ryan West and Savannah Richards

Length: 6 hours 28 minutes
Review Copy Provided by The Audio Flow, LLC
Genre: Military Romance, Romantic Suspense
My Rating: 4.0 of 5.0 Overall; Story 4.0; Narration 4.25.

It Only Took a Moment for Him to Know She Was His
Navy SEAL Kane McNamara has his mission. Four potential terrorist targets in Oman. His job is to keep everyone safe and try to figure out where al-Qaeda will strike next. Guarding an International Music Show is on the bottom of Kane’s list until he meets the woman organizing the event, then all bets are off. She’s fun, feisty and their chemistry is off the charts.
Has She Finally Met Her Match?
A.J. Lancaster has never met anyone like Kane. Nobody's ever given her this much crap or been this much fun. Her job doesn't give her a spare second to think, but she'll make time to flirt with the most interesting man she's ever met. The fact that he’s insanely gorgeous in that rough mountain man sort of way might also be why she’s taking a minute to enjoy some man candy.
It's Turning Deadly...Fast
Soon Kane, A.J., and the rest of the Night Storm SEAL team realize the music show is the next target. When bullets fly, it’s down to Kane and his team to stop al-Qaeda’s plans, and Kane must ensure that the stubborn woman he loves stays alive so they can have their chance at a happy ending.

Review:
Kane is a Navy SEAL who is dedicated to his work and his team. The team is on a mission to gain information and prevent a terrorist strike which they suspect will take place at one of four locations in Oman. One of the possible targets is an International Music Show. Kane isn’t convinced this is a legitimate target but becomes more interested when he meets the organizing manager, A.J. Lancaster. He is instantly smitten.

A.J. is a bright, confident young woman who has learned from childhood that she is the only person she can fully rely on. The men in her life have tended to be MIA when they were most needed. Now she has met a handsome, committed SEAL who is a force to be reckoned with. She won’t bow to him, but she does recognize his strengths. She determines that she can squeeze in a little time for a sassy and fun flirtation.

When accidents begin to interrupt the show practices, the team begins to dig in harder for information. The team faces danger and loss as well as frustration when they don’t get the support they need from state authorities. Kane is prepared to take risks to protect his team and prepared to risk his heart to secure the woman he has his sights on.

There is wonderful intensity in this story which has a strong plot that supports the strong romance. I wasn’t thrilled by the early foul language, but it seemed to lessen as the story progressed. I found this to be an engaging military romance that is worth pushing through to enjoy. I wouldn't mind reading more in this series. I would certainly recommend this to readers who enjoy a combination of military intrigue and sexy romance.

Audio Notes: Ryan West and Savannah Richards do a nice job sharing the narration from the perspectives of Kane and A.J. I felt they captured the strength and confidence of the two characters. The narration helped me enjoy this story as a quick (6hr28min), entertaining listen.

Source: Audio Download for review through Caffeinated PR Services.
This qualifies for 2019Audiobook goal.

Audible Book Review: The Adventures of Tom Stranger, Interdimensional Insurance Agent by Larry Correia

This is a bit zany, but fun!

The Adventures of Tom Stranger, Interdimensional Insurance Agent
By: Larry Correia
Narrated by: Adam Baldwin

Series: The Adventures of Tom Stranger, Interdimensional Insurance Agent
Length: 2 hrs and 3 mins
Unabridged Audiobook
Release date: 05-24-16
Language: English
Publisher: Audible Original
Categories: Sci-Fi & Fantasy, Sci-Fi: Contemporary, #SciFiMonth2019
My Rating: 4.0 of 5.0 Overall; Story 4.0; Narration 4.25.

About This Audible Original
Have you ever seen a planet invaded by rampaging space mutants from another dimension or Nazi dinosaurs from the future?
Don't let this happen to you!
Rifts happen, so you should be ready when universes collide. A policy with Stranger & Stranger can cover all of your interdimensional insurance needs. Rated "Number One in Customer Satisfaction" for three years running, no claim is too big or too weird for Tom Stranger to handle.
But now Tom faces his greatest challenge yet. Despite being assigned the wrong - and woefully inadequate - intern, Tom must still provide quality customer service to multiple alternate Earths, all while battling tentacle monsters, legions of the damned, an evil call center in Nebraska, and his archnemesis, Jeff Conundrum. Armed with his Combat Wombat and a sense of fair play, can Tom survive? And will Jimmy the Intern ever discover his inner insurance agent?
It's time to kick ass and adjust claims.
Adam Baldwin (Firefly, Chuck) performs Larry Correia's madcap interdimensional tale of underwriting and space travel, where the only thing scarier than tentacle monsters is a high deductible.
©2016 Larry Correia (P)2016 Audible, Inc.

Review:
Tom Stranger is an international insurance agent in a world where there are multiple alternate Earths. The alternate worlds are not supposed to bleed into each other but more and more there seem to be rifts in the divided worlds.

Fortunately for many, Tom is a sincere and successful insurance agent and claim negotiator who has been rated number one in customer service for three years. Sometimes his job is a huge challenge. He has recently requested and been assigned an Intern. He should have gotten a top of the class candidate. Instead, he was sent Jimmy who is an unimpressive wimp who seems afraid even of his own shadow.

Jimmy isn’t prepared to travel in space much less face purple tentacled monsters, a hoard of demons and Tom’s greatest competitor, Jeff Conundrum. Fortunately, Tom is a skilled negotiator with words and sometimes with weapons, especially his trusty Combat Wombat. But Tom’s success has made him a target for Conundrum who figures a perfect bait to lure Tom in. Has Jimmy learned enough watching Tom at work to help rescue Tom from the enemy trap?

The story follows Tom in a busy day of claims and negotiations. I enjoy Correia's Monster Hunter International series and his wild imagination comes forth with zany exuberance in this new series filled with social satire and insurance jokes. Adding to the fun are references to sci-fi series (like Firefly), actors like Adam Baldwin (Chuck in Firefly) and Chuck Norris, and political figures like Barrack Obama and Joe Biden. Even Correia himself has a spot in the adventures. I recommend this to readers looking for a quick break filled with laughter.

Audio Notes: Adam Baldwin delivers a strong performance matching the irreverent material. Baldwin provides some good voice impressions and a couple that completely fail – with humor!
I am glad this was provided as a free Audible Original as I might not have picked it up otherwise. Now I know where to go for a zany listen and I know I can look for other works narrated by Adam Baldwin.

Source: July 2019 Free Audible Original. This qualifies for 2019Audiobook and #SciFiMonth goal.

Audible Book Review: An Easy Death by Charlaine Harris

This is easy listening, but not compelling.

An Easy Death
By: Charlaine Harris
Narrated by: Eva Kaminsky

Series: Gunnie Rose, Book 1
Length: 9 hrs and 48 mins
Unabridged Audiobook
Release date: 10-02-18
Language: English
Publisher: Recorded Books
Genre: Alternate History, Historical Fantasy
My Rating: 4.0 of 5.0 Overall; Story 4.0; Narration 4.0.

Publisher's Summary
Number-one New York Times best-seller Charlaine Harris (Sookie Stackhouse mysteries, True Blood, Midnight Crossroad) delivers the first thriller in a new trilogy that presents a chilling alternate history of the US where everyone believes in magic - but no one is sure whether they can trust it.
After the assassination of FDR in the 1930s, the US collapses and is picked off by the UK, Canada, Mexico, and Russia. We find ourselves in the Southwestern states, now known as Texoma. It is here that the gunnie Lizbeth Rose tries to piece out a life, running security on runs from Texoma across the border to Mexico, where work and prospects are stronger.
When two Russian magicians come looking for a man named Alex Karkarov, they hire Lizbeth to find him or his family, but there are problems: The man they're looking for is dead, but he has a daughter they now need to find, as an ever-growing set of sorcerers and gunnies do not want them to succeed. It's a good thing Lizbeth is a deadly gunfighter; too bad she hates sorcerers, even the ones on whom she has to learn to rely.
Number-one New York Times best-seller Charlaine Harris (Sookie Stackhouse mysteries, True Blood, Midnight Crossroad) returns to fantasy in a taut thriller set in a US where magic is an acknowledged truth, but disreputable.
©2018 Charlaine Harris, Inc. (P)2018 Recorded Books

Review:
Lizbeth Rose’s world is an alternate Southwest US because a flu epidemic contributed to a government collapse. This resulted in America being broken up with territories going to Canada (in the north), Mexico (to the south), Russia (in the west) and UK (in the east). Most ‘native’ Americans are frightened and cautious of Russians magicians known as Grigoris.

Lizbeth is a “gunnie” or bodyguard and guide in a bleak, rough land. She has recently suffered a loss of team members after a surprise attack by bandits. Lizbeth isn’t happy when two Russians appear at her door seeking to hire her skills but the fee they offer would allow her some security. She agrees to help them look for a man named Alex Karkarov or his rumored daughter. They fail to tell her the political importance of their mission that other sorcerers are set on preventing their success. Lisbeth and her two clients are repeatedly attacked and Lisbeth has to rely on some of their skills as they travel. But as the journey brings them to the place where the man was killed, it becomes clear that Lisbeth hasn’t told her clients some important facts,

The story moves along a deadly path to the mission’s conclusion. There is quite a bit of violence by gun and magical attacks. Although the journey makes good action, the plot doesn’t seem to present a clear purpose other than introducing gunnie Lisbeth and her alternate world. Lisbeth is a well-developed character which is more than I can say for the background history that led to this alternate US. I found the story interesting entertainment but not compelling towards further books in the series. Readers who like alternate history, magical elements and a strong heroine may want to check this out.

Audio Note: Eva Kaminsky does a reasonable job and did well with the accents. Her rendition of Lizbeth sounded a little older than the character who is (I think) no older than her early 20s. Still, I am glad I had the book to listen to as it was an easy listen.

Source: 12/16/18 November Credit at Audible. This qualifies for 2019TBR, 2019Audiobook and #SciFiMonth 2019 goal.

Audible Book Review: Scythe by Neal Shusterman

This pulled my emotions back and forth!

Scythe
By: Neal Shusterman
Narrator: Greg Tremblay

Series: Arc of a Scythe, Book 1
Length: 10 hrs and 32 mins
Unabridged Audiobook
Release date: 03-14-17
Language: English
Publisher: Audible Studios
Genre: Death, Dystopia, Teen & YA
My Rating: 4.5 of 5.0 Overall; Story 4.5; Narration 4.75.

Publisher's Summary
Two teens must learn the "art of killing" in this Printz Honor-winning book, the first in a chilling new series from Neal Shusterman, author of the New York Times best-selling Unwind Dystology series.
A world with no hunger, no disease, no war, no misery: Humanity has conquered all those things and has even conquered death. Now Scythes are the only ones who can end life - and they are commanded to do so in order to keep the size of the population under control.
Citra and Rowan are chosen to apprentice to a scythe - a role that neither wants. These teens must master the "art" of taking life, knowing that the consequence of failure could mean losing their own.
Scythe is the first novel of a thrilling new series by National Book Award-winning author Neal Shusterman in which Citra and Rowan learn that a perfect world comes only with a heavy price.
©2016 Neal Shusterman (P)2017 Audible, Inc.

Review:
Citra and Rowan live in a world where there is no hunger, no disease, no war, no misery and no death. People can become deadish but are able to be revived and restored. The Scythes are an honored group who “glean” or kill people to maintain population control. They have a set of rules they are to follow and they are the only group outside of the control of the Thunderhead which is the AI that controls all other aspects of the society.

Citra and Rowan are teens from different family situations. Citra lives with caring parents and a younger brother. She is a strong student who likes to always do well even though there is little reason for creativity and innovation. Her full family is on tenterhooks when a Scythe appears at their door although it turns out he isn’t there to glean any of them.

Rowan is a middle child from a large family. He is a loyal friend who has always managed to get by without being of interest or notice. One morning is in the wrong place when a Scythe comes to his high school to glean another student. Rowan chooses to stay with the luckless boy, not realizing that the other students will hold him responsible.

A few months later Citra and Rowan are invited to become apprentices to Scythe Faraday. Both young people are appalled but intrigued. They can say “no” but there are advantages to saying “yes”. Thus they reluctantly begin their training in all methods of delivering death: weapons, poisons, physical combat. They must also learn the basis for choosing those to glean and the compassion to deal with the deaths.

Citra and Rowan attend the first of three annual Scythe conventions and discover that not all Scythes are like their mentor. In fact, there appears to be a growing rebellious faction that is setting Scythe protocols on edge. Some members object to Faraday taking two apprentices. This faction ends up setting Citra and Rowan in competition with a terrible consequence. This event triggers other terrible events that split the team forcing Rowan to a new mentor where he will suffer and struggle.

How will Citra and Rowan fare under their new training? What will happen when the final convention and choosing arrives?

I was quickly pulled into the uniqueness of this story. It is dark and difficult reading at times but I found it worth sticking to the end. I liked how chapters were separated and introduced by journal entries from different Scythes. These fill in some history, personal feelings and ethical dilemmas that are faced by the Scythes. I enjoyed the developmental growth of the teens and there are Scythes to admire and some to truly dislike. There is intrigue, violence and even light humor. The story ends but leaves issues for the next book which I am eager to pick up. I recommend this to fans of dystopian.

Audio Notes: Greg Tremblay does an excellent job with the narration. He provides distinct voices and fitting personalities. I totally enjoyed the audio and plan to listen to the next books in the series.

Source: 1/27/18 Audible Sale $3.95. This qualifies for 2019TBR, 2019Audiobook and #SciFiMonth November 2019 goals.

Audible Book Review: The Last Wish by Andrzej Sapkowski

I enjoyed the storytelling in this collection.
The Last Wish
By: Andrzej Sapkowski
Narrated by: Peter Kenny
Series: The Witcher Saga

Series: The Witcher Saga
Length: 10 hrs and 17 mins
Unabridged Audiobook
Release date: 05-05-15
Language: English
Publisher: Hachette Audio
Genre: Anthology Fantasy, Short Stories, Sorcery
My Rating: 4.25 of 5.0 Overall; Story 4.0; Narration 4.5.

Publisher's Summary
Geralt of Rivia is a witcher. A cunning sorcerer. A merciless assassin.
And a cold-blooded killer.
His sole purpose: to destroy the monsters that plague the world.
But not everything monstrous-looking is evil, and not everything fair is good...and in every fairy tale there is a grain of truth.
The international hit that inspired the video game The Witcher.
©2008 Andrzej Sapkowski (P)2015 Hachette Audio

Review:
Geralt of Rivia is a witcher. They are rare; respected by some; reviled by others. They are not quite a sorcerer, nor an assassin but they trade in elements of each. The true purpose of witchers is to kill monsters. They are dedicated from youth and given to be trained to be stronger physically and mentally. They learn potions, spells, and fighting arts. Over the years Geralt has become skilled and wise and able to prevail in most situations.

This book is a collection of stories of monsters- natural and unnatural - friends, twists and surprises. Geralt doesn’t go unscathed but he comes through. The stories include dark tales where choices have to be made between greater and lesser evils, some of which are human. Even fighting a demon genie involves fighting a power-hungry witch.

I wasn’t familiar with the game, but I liked the sound of a cunning ‘wizard’ who fights monsters. I enjoyed the action and the touch of humor in the stories. I especially liked the old-world feel of the stories. I recommend this to readers who like dark fairy tales.

Audio Notes: Peter Kenny does a grand job with the narration. He provides unique voices for the characters and captures the depth and mystery of The Witcher. The narration added to my enjoyment of this work.

Source: June 2018 Audible Sale. This qualifies for 2019TBR, 2019Audiobook and #SciFiMonth 2019.

Audible Book Review: Ships and Stings and Wedding Rings (The Chronicles of St Mary's #6.5) by Jodi Taylor

This is such a fun series and I enjoy the mishaps and Max’s recovery efforts.

Ships and Stings and Wedding Rings (The Chronicles of St Mary's #6.5)
by Jodi Taylor
Narrated by: Zara Ramm

Length: 1 hr and 25 mins
Unabridged Audiobook
Release date: 11-13-15
Language: English
Publisher: Audible Studios
Genre: Adventure, Fantasy, Time Travel
My Rating: 4.5 of 5.0 Overall; Story 4.5; Narration 4.5.

It’s Christmas again at St Mary's and time for Max’s obligatory illegal jump. On this occasion, however, they’re right up against it.
A loaded gun has been left behind in Ancient Egypt and it’s up to them to retrieve it before anyone accidentally blows their own head off, thus affecting the timeline for centuries to come.
And as if that’s not enough, someone (Max) has inadvertently poisoned Mr Markham.
It’s hot, they’re running out of supplies, they can’t find the gun, and it’s all going horribly wrong. Again.

Review:
The staff at St. Mary’s don’t call themselves time travelers. They are historians who “investigate major historical events in contemporary time”. They have strict instructions to watch and record; never to get involved, take anything or leave anything behind. Dr. Maxwell (Max) is the chief training officer of the team and has learned that one of the crews left something behind in Ancient Egypt.

Max always likes to clear up messes before the big boss finds out. She and her usual cohorts in mischief, Mr. Markham and Tim Peterson, are prepared to sneak back in time to fix the problem. This seems like it would work easily enough but somehow this trio always runs into trouble.

I love the humor in this series. And the history is interesting too – this time including shipbuilding, insect stings, and a wedding ring. The characters interact with banter and comradery. Even Max’s new husband, Leon, a Chief Technical Officer, helps in the final rescue.

I recommend this series to those who enjoy history, time travel, and humor. Listening to this spurred me into getting the second book so I could continue with the main stories.

Audio Notes: Zara Ramm does such a great job with the characters, the energy, and the fun. This series is great fun on audio.

Source: November 2015 Free Audible Original. This qualifies for 2019TBR, 2019Audiobook goal, #HoHoHoRAT and #SciFiMonth 2019.

My other reviews so far in this series:
Audible Review: Just One Da*ned Thing After Another: The Chronicles of St Mary's, Book 1 by Jodi Taylor; Rating 4.25
Audible Book Review: The Very First D*ned Thing: An Author-Read Audio Exclusive by Jodi Taylor; Rating 4.5
Goodreads Review: Christmas Present, The Chronicles of St. Mary's #4.5 by Jodi Taylor; Rating 4.0
Audible Review: When a Child Is Born, A Chronicles of St. Mary's Short Story. by Jodi Taylor; Rating 4.25.

Audio Book Review: Bring Me Home for Christmas by Robyn Carr

This is a nice Christmas Romance; reliable Robyn Carr.
Bring Me Home for Christmas
Written By: Robyn Carr
Narrated By: Therese Plummer

Publisher: Recorded Books
Date: October 2011
Duration: 7 hours 34 minutes
Genre: Contemporary Romance, Holiday Fiction, Small Town
My Rating: 4.25 of 5.0 Overall; Story 4.25; Narration 4.25.

This year, Becca Timm knows the number one item on her Christmas wish list: getting over Denny Cutler. Three years ago Denny broke her heart before heading off to war. It’s time she got over her silly college relationship and moved on.
So she takes matters into her own hands and heads up to Virgin River, the rugged little mountain town that Denny calls home, as an uninvited guest on her brother’s men-only hunting weekend. But when an accident turns her impromptu visit into an extended stay, Becca finds herself stranded in Virgin River. With Denny. In very close quarters.
As the power of Christmas envelops the little town, Becca discovers that the boy she once loved has become a strong and confident man. And the most delicious Christmas present she can imagine.

Review:
Becca and Denny were young lovers when she was in college and he set off to be a Marine. Denny’s mother died and he broke off his relationship with Becca and reenlisted, leaving her devastated. It has been three years and Becca is wondering if she can commit to her boyfriend of the past six months. She suspects that she has unresolved issues with her first love.

Becca knows her twin brother, Rich, is heading out to Virgin River to meet with his service buddies, including Denny. Becca shows up at the last minute to invite herself to the hunting and fishing trip.

The tension is immediate when Denny sees Becca walk in behind Rich. He had asked for a second chance after his confused mistake but she shot him down cold. Why in the world would she show up now at a men’s hunting weekend? The sniping between the two ends up with Becca suffering an accident which means she is stuck in town with Denny taking care of her. Can they stop their defensive bickering long enough to admit their true feelings? And how would they resolve the distance between Becca’s home and family in San Diego and Denny’s chosen life in rustic Virgin River?

It may have taken me a little time to warm up to Becca but her attitude is realistic in light of the hurt that she suffered when Denny dumped her. It was fairly evident that Denny never stopped caring for her but he didn’t want to be hurt again either.

It is charming to see how the town members support each other and are ready to fold Becca into their community family. Author Carr has this special ability to present real characters and a warm small town community. Becca’s care and concern for the local children adds an additional sweet element along with the town members caring for the less fortunate among them. I have read a few of the early books in this series and this easy, cheery read works fine as a nice holiday stand alone. I recommend this to fans of Robyn Carr and fans of small town romances.

Audio Notes: Therese Plummer is a consistently reliable narrator for this series. Her clear character voices and emotional portrayal add depth to an already strong story. The audio makes this a plus listen for me.

Source: December 2018 Audiobooks.com deal. This qualifies for 2019TBR and 2019Audiobook goals and #HoHoHoRat.

Audible Book Review: Christmas Eve, 1914 by Charles Olivier

This is heart-wrenching.

Christmas Eve, 1914
By: Charles Olivier
Narrated by: Cameron Daddo, Xander Berkeley, Cody Fern, Damon Herriman, James Scott, John Beck, Lance Guest, Gabe Greenspan, Nate Jones

Length: 1 hr and 13 mins
Performance
Release date: 12-16-14
Language: English
Publisher: Audible Studios
Categories: Fiction, Historical
My Rating: 5.0 of 5.0 Overall; Story 5.0; Narration 5.0.

About This Audible Original
"Gentlemen, maybe war takes a holiday today."
This mesmerizing audio drama takes you to the dismal trenches of World War I. It is here, under the constant threat of exploding shells and artillery, that British and German soldiers live in deplorable conditions. Braving the merciless cold and crushing exhaustion and hunger, the men conduct patrols and fight, often to the death, to advance mere inches in the frozen No Man’s Land that lies between them.
But on Christmas Eve, the Western Front gives way to a miracle of grace, as soldiers from both sides emerge from their trenches to greet each other, share their meager rations, and bury the dead for an unofficial and temporary truce. Drawing upon the unforgettable true story of history’s most transcendent ceasefire, this Audible Original, a finalist for the 2016 Audie Award for Best Audio Drama, commemorates an astonishing moment of peace—and celebration of man’s capacity for kindness—in the midst of total war. A full cast performance of a heart-wrenching script written by Emmy Award-winner Charles Olivier and produced by Dawn Prestwich (The Killing), Christmas Eve, 1914 is the perfect reminder of how holiday hope can be found in the unlikeliest of places. At the story’s end, listeners will also enjoy a performance of the classic carol, "Il Est Ne" by Tom Tom Club.
The ensemble cast includes Damon Herriman, Cameron Daddo, Xander Berkeley, James Scott, Lance Guest, Nate Jones, Cody Fern, John Beck, Gabe Greenspan, and Heiko Obermoeller.
©2014 Audible Inc. (P)2014 Audible Inc.

Review:
This story is set up as a letter from a field officer to a mother of a very young soldier who died ten years earlier. The officer describes the events surrounding the soldier’s arrival at the front, leading to his death and a moving impact resulting in his burial and a day of truce on the battlefield. The officer clearly expresses his emotions of regret, heartbreak, and humility based on the bravery of the young man who stepped forward to fight for his country and to encourage the other soldiers.

This is a full-cast dramatization that puts the listener at the front with the mud, the grit, the stink, the hunger, the exhaustion, the sounds of bombing, the fear, and even the dysfunction – all expressing the horror of war. The lack of integrity and the incompetence of the officers is disturbing as are the sometimes nonsensical orders. The conditions that all of the soldiers faced on the front line are gut-wrenching.

I think that I had heard about this cessation of hostilities for Christmas before, but this story brings it alive. I loved the addition of the singing by the young man and the echoes that bring the sides to the point of truce and allow them to move out to “No Man Lands” to bury the dead. My heart was soon hurting as I listened and by the end tears were running into my ears (I was lying down).

This is beautifully written on a very tough subject. I hope to get my children and grandchildren to listen to this and to recognize how human we are and how horrible war is. The Audible is moving and I highly recommend it.

#HoHoHoRat.
Source: December 2018 Free Audible Original. This qualifies for 2019TBR and 2019Audiobook goals.

Audible Book Review: Sackett's Land by Louis L'Amour

I loved this adventure!
Sackett's Land
The Sacketts, Book 1
By: Louis L'Amour
Narrated by: John Curless

Series: The Sacketts, Book 1
Length: 5 hrs and 14 mins
Unabridged Audiobook
Release date: 12-15-99
Language: English
Publisher: Bantam Doubleday Dell Audio
Genre: Historical Fiction, Western Fiction
My Rating: 4.5 of 5.0 Overall; Story 4.5; Narration 4.5.

Publisher's Summary
After discovering six gold Roman coins buried in the mud of the Devil's Dyke, Barnabas Sackett enthusiastically invests in goods that he will offer for trade in America. But Sackett has a powerful enemy: Rupert Genester, nephew of an earl, wants him dead. A battlefield promise made to Sackett’s father threatens Genester’s inheritance. So on the eve of his departure for America, Sackett is attacked and thrown into the hold of a pirate ship. Genester's orders are for him to disappear into the waters of the Atlantic. But after managing to escape, Sackett makes his way to the Carolina coast. He sees in the raw, abundant land the promise of a bright future. But before that dream can be realized, he must first return to England and discover the secret of his father's legacy.
Don't miss other titles in The Sacketts series.
©1974 Louis L'Amour (P)2010 Bantam Doubleday Dell Audio

Review:
As a man of the Fens in 1599, Barnabas Sackett, doesn’t have a lot of opportunities to advance himself. His life changes when he discovers six gold Roman coins buried in the mud. Barnabas plans to sell the coins for goods to trade in America. Before he can get to the ship, Barnabas stumbles into a man who becomes a powerful enemy. Barnabas doesn’t know Rupert Genester, but Rupert’s uncle, a wealthy earl, has a special interest in Barnabas and Rupert views Barnabas as a threat.
Barnabas has made a couple of friends who have agreed to tie their fortunes with their interesting new friend. The goods and friends have boarded the ship when Barnabas is highjacked by a ‘pirate’, black-hearted captain.

Barnabas survives and escapes, with the help of two new friends, to the unknown (Carolina) American shores. Now they must survive the natives and hope they can begin the trading opportunities Barnabas seeks. Barnabas hopes his friends on the firsts ship will find him before the evil captain manages to track and kill him. Barnabas finds himself having to escape one near-death situation after another.

I loved Barnabas’ feisty intelligence and determination to make his own way rather than accept a possible boon. I have read works by Louis L'Amour and have always thought of him as a great storyteller of westerns. This wonderful adventure shows he is a great storyteller creating likable characters and adventures in other times and places. It appears there is a long line in this series which will follow Barnabas to America and eventually follow his heirs as they make their way in the ‘new world’. I recommend this to fans of strong characters who survive exploring adventures.

Audio Notes: I totally enjoyed the narration by John Curless. The English accents are wonderfully rich and kept me turning this on whenever I could. I would love to listen to more.

(I am a little sorry that the sequels are priced in the midteens which is the range I hesitate to use my credits on. Still, I have added book 2 to my Wish List and will be glad to pull it when I need another fun adventure.)

Source: 2003 Audible title. This qualifies for 2019TBR and 2019Audiobook goals.

Audio Book Review: The Journals of Octavia Hollows: Books 1-6 by Stacey Rourke

This is a very fun listen!

The Journals of Octavia Hollows: Books 1-6
by Stacey Rourke
Narrated by: Brenda Scott Wlazlo

Series: The Journals of Octavia Hollows Series, Book 1-6
Length: 14 hrs and 22 mins
Unabridged Audiobook
Release date: 10-22-19
Language: English
Publisher: The Audio Flow, LLC
Genre: Cozy Mysteries, Supernatural Thriller, Urban Fantasy
My Rating: 4.25 of 5.0 Overall; Story 4.25; Narration 4.5.

With a touch of her hand, Octavia Hollows can restore life. Yet, she couldn’t save the man she loved from the horrific accident that stole him from her. Octavia thought she could outrun the pain, but ghosts from the past refuse to be silenced. Out of options, she chooses to retrace her wayward journey across the country in search of answers. Surrounded by baffling mysteries of the undead, what she learns about herself along the way might become her greatest weapon.
This six novella series chronicles Octavia's adventures in:
Wake the Dead
Dead Man's Hand
Caught Dead
Drop Dead Gorgeous
Dead Ringer
Dead as a Doornail
"This is Rourke at her finest: sassy and completely unapologetic. Proving again why she's a powerhouse in this industry."
-USA Today Best Selling Author Rue Volley
"This book has it all: a kickass heroine, loads of action... and a pig named Bacon."
-NYT & USA Today Best Selling Author Karen Lynch
©2019 Stacey Rourke (P)2019 The Audio Flow, LLC

Review:
Octavia is a gutsy young woman with special gifts. She is a necromancer who can restore life and she has a little bit of magic learned from her witch coven friends. Still, she never felt like she belonged or had a family anywhere.

One of her special restorations is her sidekick and constant companion, a miniature pig she named Bacon. Octavia is distressed that she wasn’t able to save her boyfriend, Elba, from a tragic accident. But someone has hidden his body so she is retracing her steps to try to find him. In each episode, Octavia faces a challenge of death and learns more about herself along the way.

Wake the Dead
Octavia starts off in Seattle. She is surprised to be contacted by a couple desperate to hire her to help their baby son. Although waking the dead is frowned upon, Octavia uses the resources she has available and that means waking the nurse who was present in the hospital room when things went wrong for the family. Can Octavia banish the creature that has taken control of the children?

This story introduces the reader to Octavia, Bacon some of Octavia’s history and her friendship and strained relationship with her coven mentor, Dina. The snarky fun is obvious from the opening pages.

Dead Man's Hand
Moving on to Las Vegas Octavia visits her old boss to make inquires. They open a tool cabinet to discover a charred body and a huge stack of cash. Octavia thinks she can help by waking the man to ask him what happened. Soon she is dodging the law and hiding from the mob while she tries to figure out the mystery. This time she faces a monster who is willing to grant her deepest wish. Can she resist?

Caught Dead
Next Octavia stops in Galveston, Texas. By this time she knows that someone is shadowing her as he drops a burner cellphone in her lap and she learns a man has been asking about her.

While she tries to figure out who would stalk her, Octavia is witness to the arrest of a woman accused of murdering her husband. Octavia slips out in the dark to hunt for clues and is confronted by a strange creature from Davy Jones Locker. The creature is threatened when others start rushing to the area to investigate strange noises. Octavia manages to whisk “Squidface” away to hide him in her motel room. This becomes a sweet character but faces danger when Octavia confronts a Siren who is causing murders along the beach.

Drop Dead Gorgeous
From the blurb for book 4:

“Campsite; Middle of nowhere
Abducted by a pod of sirens claiming to hold secrets to her past, Octavia is forced into the hell that is the sequin and taffeta lifestyle of a traveling pageant circuit. But this tour is leaving a trail of deception in its wake. Stumbling onto a double homicide, Octavia must choose a side in a decades old rivalry.
Will she use her gifts to unveil the killer, if it means sacrificing her chance at freedom?”

This situation reveals alarming facts about Octavia’s birth parents. Octavia has to find a way out of her predicament before Squidface, Bacon, and Octavia herself lose their freedom, if not their lives.

Dead Ringer
Octavia returns to another former employer in Belle Chasse, Louisiana. Octavia is worried about the members of her coven who have gone missing. She fears they have been lured out by her stalker and she is close on his heels. But before she can find the stalker, Octavia meets a handsome boxer, Reid, who has a unique ability – he can’t die. As usual, Octavia steps into the ring (literally this time) to lend a helping hand, punch or kick.

There is fun chemistry and banter between Octavia and Reid to the point that she has to remind herself that she is still hunting the body of her “ex” boyfriend, Elba. Will Octavia allow Reid to tag along when she follows the next clues to find Elba and the stalker?

Dead as a Doornail
Octavia finally returns to Tallahassee, Florida where the love of her (Elba) life died. Time has come to face the stalking menace who is out for revenge. He is vicious and holds the tricks: he has the body of Elba and has kidnapped her coven members. Elba is materializing as a ghost trying to help protect Octavia from the stalker and maybe from Reid as the two “men” face-off.

Octavia will need all the help she can gather to fight this threat from her past. Octavia is willing to offer an apology and forgiveness as she continues to mature her emotions and confidence, standing firm to face the enemy.

Boxed Set:
The whole package is a great ride of snarky fun with lots of action and unusual paranormal characters. There is some language and a small bit of crudity that was unnecessary for me. But as stated in the Tour Blitz, if “you like urban fantasy and snarky heroines…. you'll want to meet necromancer Octavia Hollows and her sidekick Bacon.” Do you like urban fantasy and snarky heroines?

Audio Notes: Brenda Scott Wlazlo does a wonderful job delivery the energy and fun of these stories. I am thankful to have received the audio to enjoy the listening fun!

If you haven’t checked out THE GIVEAWAY yet, you still have today, November 6, 2019.

Source: Audio provided for Tour Blitz on 10/31/19 hosted by Caffeinated PR. This qualifies for 2019Audiobook goal.

Audible Book Review: October Mourning: a Song for Matthew Shepard, by Lesléa Newman

This is a beautiful and evocative work.
OCTOBER MOURNING:
A SONG FOR MATTHEW SHEPARD
by Lesléa Newman, Narrated by Emily Beresford, Luke Daniels, Tom Parks, Nick Podehl, Kate Rudd, Christina Traister (Brilliance Audio)

• 1.25 hrs. • Unabridged • © 2012
Genre: LGBT issues, Poetry; Teen & YA
My Rating: 4.5 of 5.0 Overall; Story 4.5; Narration 4.5.

On October 6, 1998, Matthew Shepard, a gay 21-year-old student at the University of Wyoming, was viciously beaten, tied to a fence, and left to die. Author Newman’s intimate reaction to this tragedy, a heartrending collection of 68 poems, is narrated by an outstanding cast. The narrators expertly carry the weight of the poems, excelling on verses that combine more than one voice. The poems present unique perspectives, including those of the fence, the moon, the road, even Matthew’s cat. Beautifully articulated, the quiet spaces in each poem add to the emotion, evoking a vast starry sky of memory and loss not soon to be forgotten. Intense, moving, and haunting—a must-listen for ages 14+. E.A.B. Winner of AudioFile Earphones Award, 2013 Audies Finalist, SYNC 2014 © AudioFile 2012, Portland, Maine [Published: OCTOBER 2012]

Review:
I am sorry I had not listened to this sooner. The author, Lesléa Newman, is a feminist and activist for gay rights. She was in Wyoming to speak on campus the night that Matthew Shepard was brutally beaten and left to die. Although she was a stranger to the campus and to Shepard, her compassionate heart shared the trauma and loss that impacted the community. After reflection, she voiced her feelings in this collection of poems. The poems range in perspectives from the victim to the assailants, the fence, the rope, the moon, and the sky. The poems evoke sorrow, anger, and disbelief. The works are beautiful and evocative, and I was greatly impressed, especially when you add the narration.

Audio Notes: These six narrators, Emily Beresford, Luke Daniels, Tom Parks, Nick Podehl, Kate Rudd, Christina Traister, did an awesome job with the poems. They read the poems separately and occasionally jointly or in sequence. The presentation adds to the haunting and sometimes breathtaking prose. I highly recommend this audio work.

Source: 2014 SYNC Free Audio. This qualifies for 2019TBR and 2019Audiobook goals.

Audible Book Review: The Phantom of the Opera by Gaston Leroux

About midway I did get into this classic, gothic story.
The Phantom of the Opera
By: Gaston Leroux
Narrated by: Ralph Cosham

Length: 7 hrs and 45 mins
Unabridged Audiobook
Release date: 12-06-04
Language: English
Publisher: Blackstone Audio, Inc.
Genre: Classic, Gothic Horror, Gothic Romance
My Rating: 4.0 of 5.0 Overall; Story 3.75; Narration 4.25.

Publisher's Summary
The story begins with an investigation into some strange reports of an "opera ghost", legendary for making the great Paris opera performers ill-at-ease when they sit alone in their dressing rooms. Some allege to have seen the ghost in evening clothes moving about in the shadows. Nothing is done, however, until the disappearance of Christine during her triumphant performance. With an increasing pattern of fear and violence, The Phantom of the Opera begins to strike, but always with a beautiful young performer at the center of his deadly desires.
(P)2004 Blackstone Audiobooks

Review:
This story is presented as an investigation that slowly develops about an “opera ghost”. The story takes place in (and under) a famous opera house in 19th Century Paris. The first third tells of some accidents that have occurred in the opera house particularly regarding beautiful young stars. The author then focuses on a current, upcoming performer, Christine, and the young nobleman, Vicomte Raoul de Chagny, who adores her. Raoul wants to romance Christine but he finds her pushing him away because she is under the thrall of a strange beautiful voice. She knows him as Erik, the Angel of Music, while others who do not know him personally, are sure he is the Opera Ghost. Is he real or a ghost? Is he a sad, tragic man or a monster?

Christine is torn between her love of music shared by the man who is tutoring her with his musical gift, and her childhood friend and ardent suitor, Raoul. As Raoul becomes more involved the story becomes more and more interesting.

When Erik kidnaps Christine in the middle of a performance, Raoul receives help from a strange man, the Persian. This is a man who has a past with knowledge of Erik. He is aware that Erik is a master of hidden rooms, illusions, and traps. The underground rivers, hall mazes, and dangers that he navigates with Raoul were particularly interesting.

It has been years since I saw The Phantom of the Opera as a play so I was interested to read/listen to the original story. Once I got through the beginning, I did find it fascinating. I found the illusions elements even more interesting than the love triangle. If you have any interest in this classic, I recommend pushing through the early part to enjoy the complexity of the rest of the story.

Audio Notes: Ralph Cosham was a British-born American performer. He delivers this work with a convincing French accent. The narration doesn’t always provide distinct accents/voices for the characters as it is consistent with the investigative nature or the story. This worked fine for me and I am glad that I listened to this.

Source: 12/16 Daily Deal $.99 for me since I already had the Kindle version. This qualifies for 2019TBR and 2019Audiobook goals.

Audio Book Review: The End of America?: Bible Prophecy and a Country in Crisis by Jeff Kinley

I really liked the information shared in this.
The End of America?: Bible Prophecy and a Country in Crisis
by Jeff Kinley
Tom Parks (Narrator)

Audio CD
Publisher: christianaudio; Unabridged edition (August 1, 2017)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 1683667913
Genre: Christian Prophecies, Inspirational, NonFiction
My Rating: 4.5 of 5.0 Overall; Story 4.5; Narration 4.5.

Will God’s Wrath Fall on America?
What happens when a country glories in its immorality, turning away from faith in God and obedience to Him?
Jeff Kinley, author of As It Was in the Days of Noah, explores historical and biblical precedents for the demise of a nation and addresses pressing questions such as…
How did we get to this point?
Is America in Bible prophecy?
Will Christians face widespread persecution here?
What effect will the rapture have on America?
How should I respond to the moral decline?
This forthright survey of current events and trends offers valuable perspective on the future of America—along with powerful motivation to embrace the only source of lasting hope.

Review:
Often we wonder how, and if, America fits in End Times. To answer the question Mr. Kinley begins with history. He establishes the importance of prophecy in the Bible. Much of the prophecy has already come true, supporting the reliability of the source. But there is more to come.

The author explores the current state of America by sharing historical detail of Christian roots in its founding. Mr. Kinley then addresses America’s long-time relationship with Israel by discussing the Biblical principle of blessings falling on those who support God’s chosen people, Israel.

There is more historical detail showing the progressive moral decline in especially since God was removed from schools in 1962. Step by step our society has moved away from revering God, to a point of ignoring Him and more recently outright rebellion and rejection of His laws. Soon we can expect to see increased persecution against Christians.

The author spent a long chapter discussing the horrible impact of abortion. The Bible supports the position that life begins at conception (Psalm 139:13-16, Isaiah 44:24, Jeremiah 1:5, Galatians 1:15 and more). So does science. God punished His most beloved chosen people, Israel, for worshipping idols and killing children. Do we really think He will let any other nation get away without punishment for the same sins?

The next question is how close to the end are we? Many people speculate and some (always falsely) set dates. There are some clear signs and seasons, but no one knows the date. This is more reason to be ready and to feel the compulsion to share the gospel with others. The final message is that it doesn’t really matter what role America plays in the end times. What matters is if we are ready and if we are sharing the message of salvation with others.

At times the book seemed to go on and on with a couple of the points. Still, I was impressed by the thoroughness of the arguments and information shared. I highly recommend this to readers who are interested in Biblical prophecy, not just America’s place.

Audio Notes: I enjoyed the narration by Tom Parks. I appreciated that his presentation of the facts and arguments is made with directness and genuine feeling. I am glad that I listened but I ended up buying an extra copy of the book for myself.

Interestingly, my first review draft was 718 words; the second was still 576. It took four drafts to get it under 400.
Source: Print books at discount for book club and I picked up the Audio CD. This qualifies for 2019Audiobook goal.