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: 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.

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.

Book Review: Civilly Disobedient (Calm Act Genesis Book 1) by Ginger Booth

I liked this short dystopian prequel.
Civilly Disobedient (Calm Act Genesis Book 1)
by Ginger Booth

File Size: 3840 KB
Print Length: 52 pages
Publication Date: August 18, 2016
Sold by: Amazon Digital Services LLC
ASIN: B01KOXYB2K
Genre: Dystopian, Political Fiction, Sci Fi, Short Story
My Rating: 4.0 of 5.0

The storms before the Calm.
Resourceful programmer Dee Baker is getting worried about climate change. Food prices are skyrocketing, the drought out west deepening, and the storms won’t quit. When her intrusive Fortune 100 media employer forbids her to attend the worsening riots, Dee defies them to visit a rally, and see for herself what they’re trying to hide.
Civilly Disobedient is a short prequel to the Calm Act series.

Review:
Dee Baker, a resourceful programmer with a good job, is annoyed when her employer announces that the staff are forbidden from attending any of the increasingly violent climate protests. Dee already suspects that her media employer is suppressing the truth regarding troubles in their world. She doesn’t always like to toe the line and tends to have a rebellious streak.

Dee decides to sneak into a protest to see what is really going on. She manages to get a seat on a bus loaded with a participating group that has a legal permit for the event. She soon learns that there are many other groups that are attending without permission. The crowd greatly exceeds the numbers that were planned but apparently the police anticipated the overly zealous mob.

Dee finds herself caught up in the moving masses and at risk of being arrested. Can she get out of the mob safely or will she lose her job for this impulsive adventure?

I found this short story to be well written with an engaging character and consistent flow. My attention was quickly engaged and held throughout the adventure. The plot direction isn’t fully clear for the rest of the series but I enjoyed this prequel enough to want to know where the story will go. Readers who enjoy the dystopian genre may wish to try this out.

Source: 2016 Free Kindle. This qualifies for 2019TBR and #SciFiMonth 2019 goals.

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.

Book Review: A Christmas Message From The Moon by Philip Gibson

I learned some history from this quick story!
A Christmas Message From The Moon
by Philip Gibson


File Size: 1234 KB
Print Length: 16 pages
Publication Date: November 22, 2015
Sold by: Amazon Digital Services LLC
ASIN: B018EI7ZTI
Genre: History, Short Story
My Rating: 4.0 of 5.0

On Christmas Eve 1968, the largest worldwide television audience in history tuned in to see the Apollo 8 astronauts become the first humans to reach the Moon. Halfway through their 6-day historic mission, the astronauts broadcast live TV pictures and commentary from lunar orbit.

At that time, no-one had any idea that a mere one minute of their historic journey would cause a nationwide controversy so great that it would end up in a lawsuit to be debated and decided by no less an august body than the Supreme Court of the United States.

The account is written not in the conventional book format, but in the form of today’s social media, imagining that the astronauts, and those following the mission, were able to post their thoughts to the public in real time.

The story begins with the astronauts of Apollo 8 just minutes away from beginning their historic Christmas message to the world.

Review:
Gibson presents the 1968 Christmas message from the Apollo 8 astronauts with a media format of shared commentary including well-known journalists of the day (like Walter Cronkite) and criticism from some who took offense. I was surprised to learn that a lawsuit challenged the Biblical reading as a violation of State and Religion. The case went all the way to the Supreme Court!

I remember (as a teenager) being impressed by the touching Christmas message from the moon. I found this work informative and interesting. I liked the format the author used to share this. It may not be scintillating, but I enjoyed this historically based story. I recommend it as a quick, informative read (and I think it is still free).

Source: January 2017 free Kindle download. This qualifies for 2019TBR and #HoHoHoRAT goals.

Book Review: Ruth's First Christmas Tree by Elly Griffiths

This is a sweet Christmas story.

Ruth's First Christmas Tree
(Ruth Galloway #4.5)
by Elly Griffiths

File Size: 11359 KB
Print Length: 29 pages
Publisher: Houghton Mifflin Harcourt (December 11, 2012)
ASIN: B00AFDUN72
Genre: Holiday, Traditional Detective
My Rating: 3.75 of 5.0

It is three days before Christmas and a bitter wind is blowing across Norfolk.
Until her daughter was born, forensic archaeologist Ruth Galloway didn’t do Christmas, but now that Kate is a year old, she wants it to be special.
She must get a tree, shop for food, clean the house, buy presents, including one for her new boyfriend—who she isn’t even sure is her boyfriend—and remember to get the turkey out of the freezer.
But time is rushing by and the best-laid plans don’t always work out …

Review:
Ruth is a forensic archaeologist living in a bleakly cold and secluded cottage in Norfolk. Her career skills have her working closely with the DCI to help solve murders. During one of her earlier forays to help the police, she ended up getting pregnant. Now she has a precious child, Kate, and Ruth wants to have her first true Christmas to share with Kate.

Ruth is rushing to get everything ready especially since she has a new friend – maybe boyfriend -- coming to celebrate with her and Kate. When the cat and Kate get to the decorated tree, things look to be tumbling. Ruth is lucky to have a close friend, Cathbad, step in to help make Christmas really special and even Kate's father makes an unexpected appearance.

I like forensic characters and was curious about this series. The story is cute but I found the reading difficult. The author presents the work in third person, present tense which makes it a little awkward. I very much like Ruth’s unusual friend, Cathbad, but had some concerns about the affair with the married inspector that led to Ruth’s child.

I might try one of the full novels to see if I could adjust. I recommend this as a cute Christmas story that introduces the reader to the characters and the author’s writing style.

Source: 2012 free Kindle. This qualifies for 2019TBR goal and #HoHoHoRat.

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.

Book Review: A Christmas Feral by Mary Matthews

This is a fun, quick read.

A Christmas Feral (Magical Cool Cats #3)
by Mary Matthews


Kindle Edition, 24 pages
Published (first published December 4th 2011)
ASIN B006HY67XW
Series Magical Cool Cats #3
Genre: Cats, Holiday, Short Story
My Rating: 4.0 of 5.0

Judge Scrooge won't even heat his home for Christmas in this Roaring Twenties' short story. Judge Scrooge says that when you pay the bill, you don't feel the cold. When Judge Scrooge rules incorrectly in a cat dispute, Magical White Cat Tatania and her companion Zeus teach him the meaning of keeping Christmas and cats.

Review:
This is a very cute, short parody of “A Christmas Carol”. On Christmas Eve an attorney seeks an injunction to keep a man from killing cats in the park. The Judge knows this attorney as “Her”, a colleague from his past. After ruling against the cats, Scrooge finds himself visited by the “Magical Cats” to show him the past, the present and what the future would be like without cats. Will their visit help change his miserly attitude so he can share the joy of Christmas, even with his cook’s son, Tiny Tim?

I found this to be a fun read. It doesn’t hurt that I like cats and I love the kindness that should envelop Christmas. This story made me interested to read more by Ms. Matthews and I realize I have several volumes of Magical Cool Cats Mysteries which I also got free on Kindle. I recommend this to readers who enjoy cats and Scrooge based stories.

Source: November 2016 Free Kindle. This qualifies for 2019TBR and #HoHoHoRAT.

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.

#HoHoHoRAT 2019 Book Bingo Challenge

This Challenge is sponsored by Simply Angela
These are always fun!

Bingo can be won any direction: Across, Down, Diagonal or Postage Stamp

Across 1, 2 and 3, 4, 5 and 6 or 7, 8 and 9
Down 1, 4 and 7; 2, 5 and 8; 3, 6 and 9
Postage Stamp:  1,2, 4 and 5; 2,3, 5 and 6; and 5,6, 8 and 9

Since I hadn't yet read an Auld Lang Syne title, I used my snowed in title for a different square.

1. Baby It's Cold Outside (Snowed in)

2. Last Christmas
(TBR over one year) Santa’s Christmas Eve Blues by Douglas Lindsey (TBR from 2012)
3. Step Into Christmas
(Christmas in title) Evergreen: A Christmas Tale by Richard Taylor
4. Winter Wonderland
(Snowy Cover) One Wish: A Christmas Story by Jodi Thomas (Not a TBR)

5. FREE SPACE FREE SPACE

6. Merry Christmas Baby  Also Green
(Christmas/Holiday Romance) Bring Me Home For Christmas by Robyn Carr (Audio)


7. Audle Lang Syne (New Year Read)

8. Rockin’ Around the Christmas Tree
(Mistletoe in title) The Sheriff’s Mistletoe Law by Nita Wick
9. The Bells of St. Paul
(Set in Britain) Christmas Scandal… Not! by Jeanne Savery (Regency England)


I finished a total of ten (10) books (3 audios and 7 ebooks, 9 TBRS) and am still reading one more I might finish before the end of tonight. ( I was thinking ended 11/15 - I still have two days!)
In addition to the six listed abore I have completed:
Christmas Eve, 1914 by Charles Olivier (Audio)
Ruth's First Christmas Tree (Ruth Galloway, #4.5) by Elly Griffiths
The Twelve Cats of Christmas (All the Creatures of Christmas) by Kevin Whitlark
Ships and Stings and Wedding Rings (The Chronicles of St Mary's #6.5) by Jodi Taylor (Audio)

Book Review: The Sheriff's Mistletoe Law by Nita Wick

This is a very quick, sweet read.
The Sheriff's Mistletoe Law
by Nita Wick

File Size: 147 KB
Print Length: 13 pages
Publication Date: December 14, 2011
Language: English
ASIN: B006M95CT2
Genre: Historical, Holiday Romance, Short Story, Western Romance
My Rating: 4.0 of 5.0

Western romance holiday 5 minute quick read.
This very short story is offered as a sample of the author's work.
If you enjoy this, you might also like Nita Wick's award-winning historical western romance, The Wagonmaster.

Review:
Opening line: “You’re standing under the mistletoe.” Rebekah/Becky is surprised when she is confronted by the new town sheriff, Colton. He insists that she owes him a kiss. Even her brothers and parents don’t scare him off. Why is he pushing so hard for a kiss? Will she give in? and then what?

This is a very short and sweet, historical almost romance – really just an introduction to a possible romance. I liked the setting and brief character development. It gives just a taste of the author’s writing and I liked it. I would read more historical romance by Ms. Wick. I recommend this as a five-minute holiday read to those who enjoy historical romance.

Source: 2012 Free Kindle Download. This qualifies for 2019TBR goal 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.

Book Review: Reasons to Kill God by I.V. Olokita

This is a dark story but speaks of compassion too.

Reasons to Kill God
by I.V. Olokita

Paperback: 140 pages
Publisher: Independently published (December 24, 2018)
Language: English (translated from Hebrew)
ISBN-10: 1729400302
Genre: Historical Fiction, Literary Fiction
My Rating: 4.0 of 5.0

“If you are able to write 180 pages of your memoir without putting the pen down, I might let you live…”
Klaus Holland loves no one other than himself. He victimizes people for being Jews or for just being alive.
He is an old Nazi criminal who escaped to Brazil and was caught and prosecuted. He is now forced to write his memoirs as part of his punishment – the same punishment he used to give Jews at the concentration camp. This punishment makes him remember and re-live his cruelty as the concentration camp commander and as a man.
Deus Esperanca learns from his mother that what he believed to be his family’s history, was just a bunch of lies. He discovers that his real father is Klaus Holland – the sadistic Nazi fugitive.
Having this information and his father being aware of what he knows, their lives intertwine and create chaos.

Review:
The story opens as Klaus Holland is required to write his own memoir – which is a punishment he used to give Jews before killing them. Klaus was a sadistic Nazi officer who didn’t blink at the cruelty of the concentration camps where he was a commander. He escaped from Germany at the end of the war and was able to hide himself in Brazil. He continued to be a self-centered, crude man who holds himself out as a rich man above all others who are there for his pleasure and use.

Klaus wasn’t initially aware that he fathered a son by his regular prostitute who died giving birth. On her deathbed, the mother named her son “Deus”. Several years later, the head of the orphanage shows up at Klaus’ door to tell him to come collect his son. He brings Deus home and announces that the woman who currently ‘services’ him will be the child’s mother.

Deus and Klara grew close as they suffer abuse at the hands of Klaus. When Klara realizes she is dying she tells Deus the truth about his mother and father. She explains that Klaus is one of the last uncaptured Nazi criminals. Deus sets out to meet an American professor who once specialized in hunting Nazi war criminals. Before flying to America, Deus leaves a letter telling his father what he knows.

When Deus returns to Brazil he doesn’t realize that his visit has triggered those who want to find Klaus and bring him to justice… or some other punishment. There is a sudden clash as Deus and Klaus reach the conclusion of their strange connections.

The format of this novel is a little difficult to follow. I found the point of view (pov) confusing to accept as Klaus writing his memoirs even as chapters are presented from the pov of other characters (particularly his American pursuer) and the journey of his son while he is away in America. The author manages to weave in twists and raise questions as to how a son might react to learning his father is a war criminal. This is also a novel that is difficult to read emotionally due to history and the horrendous cruelty and gritty situations. I can only take deep breaths and ponder how someone (many someones) could be so evil and view themselves as God.

This story is darker than most, but I found it a worthwhile, engaging read. I recommend it to those who are interested in Nazi history from the perspective of the criminal and a son.

Source: Author Review Request. This qualifies for Author review goal.

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.

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.

Audible Book Review: Alien: Out of the Shadows by Tim Lebbon, Dirk Maggs

This is a good dramatization and made me want to see the movies again.

Alien: Out of the Shadows
An Audible Original Drama
By: Tim Lebbon, Dirk Maggs
Narrated by: Rutger Hauer, Corey Johnson, Matthew Lewis, Kathryn Drysdale, Laurel Lefkow, Andrea Deck, Mac McDonald.

Series: Audible Original, Alien, Book 1, Alien, Book 3
Length: 4 hrs and 28 mins
Performance
Release date: 04-26-16
Language: English
Publisher: Audible Studios
Categories: Sci-Fi & Fantasy, Dramatizations
My Rating: 4.0 of 5.0 Overall; Story 3.75; Narration 4.25.

About This Audible Original
In space, no one can hear you scream. In this gripping Audible Original performance, Ellen Ripley, the last human survivor of the salvage ship Nostromo, once again takes on the relentless Xenomorphs: vicious, intelligent extra-terrestrials notorious for tearing humans apart. When her lifeboat Narcissus locks onto the mining ship Marion, she awakes from hypersleep to a nightmare: the dreaded creatures are lurking on board, ominously prowling a sealed-off shuttle after slaughtering the crew. When one of the merciless beasts escapes the hold, acting Captain Chris “Hoop” Hooper and his team are faced with an unimaginable horror—and Ripley just may be the crew’s only hope.
An ensemble cast, featuring film icon Rutger Hauer and Harry Potter’s Matthew Lewis, commands this unforgettable performance, punctuated by immersive sound design from audio master and fan favorite Dirk Maggs. Awarded the 2017 Audie for Excellence in Production, the result is terrifying–and utterly pause-resistant.
©2016 20th Century Fox (P)2016 Audible, Ltd.

Review:
Ripley, the sole survivor of the Xenomorphs alien attack on the Nostromo, is in hypersleep in a lifeboat headed home… at least that was the plan. She is awakened when her ship is diverted and pulled onto the mining ship Marion. Apparently two ships went to the surface and ran into trouble in the form of an alien attack. Snagging Ripley’s ship is fortuitous for the mining crew since Ripley is the only one who has experience with these aliens.

While Ripley was longing to get back to earth, it turns out the disembodied AI, Ash, who tried to take back an alien, is controlling her ship. Ash redirected Ripley’s ship so he could get to the aliens again. Now he is prepared to take over the mining ships and again try to get an alien to take back to earth… even if it means leaving most of the humans behind.

The action is fast paced, and Ash makes a creepy, strong villain. I like how his journal entries fill in backstory on ‘the Company’. Chief Engineer, now acting Captain, Hooper, “Hoop”, and Ripley share bantering chemistry and begin to form a supportive friendship as they try to survive the alien beasts. Sadly, most of the other characters are disposable. Beyond humans trying to sneak past the aliens, while Ash steers them into trouble, there isn’t a huge plot line.

Audio Notes: The dramatization makes this an interactive, movie-like (at least in sound) experience. I loved Rutger Hauer as Ash and Laurel Lefkow does a great job portraying Ripley. At times she sounds just like Sigourney Weaver. There are a few times I had to strain to hear the voices over the dramatic music and background sounds but overall the performance is engaging and exciting.

Source: 2016 Audible Original. This qualifies for 2019TBR and 2019Audiobook goals.