Audible Book Review: The Queen and the Cure by Amy Harmon

This author and narrator make for stellar entertainment!
The Queen and the Cure
The Bird and the Sword Chronicles Series, Book 2: Booktrack Edition
By: Amy Harmon
Narrated by: Steve West

Series: The Bird and the Sword Chronicles, Book 2
Length: 10 hrs and 57 mins
Unabridged Audiobook
Release date: 06-12-18
Language: English
Publisher: Novel Audio
Genre: Fairy-Tale, Fantasy, Romance
My Rating: 5.0 of 5.0 Overall, Story and Narration.

Publisher's Summary
The Queen and the Cure: The Bird and the Sword Chronicles Series, Book 2: Booktrack Edition adds an immersive musical soundtrack to your audiobook listening experience!*
There will be a battle, and you will need to protect your heart.
Kjell of Jeru had always known who he was. He'd never envied his brother or wanted to be king. He was the bastard son of the late King Zoltev and a servant girl, and the ignominy of his birth had never bothered him. But there is more to this man than his parentage. More to this man than his blade, his size, or his skills, and all that Kjell once knew has shifted and changed. He is no longer simply Kjell of Jeru, a warrior defending the crown. Now he is a healer, one of the Gifted, and a man completely at odds with his power.
Called upon to rid the country of the last vestiges of the Volgar, Kjell stumbles upon a woman who has troubling glimpses of the future and no memory of the past. Armed with his unwanted gift and haunted by regret, Kjell becomes a reluctant savior, beset by old enemies and new expectations. With the woman by his side, Kjell embarks upon a journey where the greatest test may be finding the man she believes him to be.
*Booktrack is an immersive format that pairs traditional audiobook narration to complementary music. The tempo and rhythm of the score are in perfect harmony with the action and characters throughout the audiobook. Gently playing in the background, the music never overpowers or distracts from the narration, so listeners can enjoy every minute. When you purchase this Booktrack edition, you receive the exact narration as the traditional audiobook available, with the addition of music throughout.
©2017 Amy Harmon (P)2018 Novel Audio Inc.

Review:
Kiell of Jeru is the son of the late king and an unknown woman whose name was Cora. Kiell never wanted to be royalty and preferred being a warrior, the Captain of Guard, protecting his brother, the King of Jeru. Kiell is also one of the Gifted although he’d still rather be a warrior than a healer. Kiell sets out with his troop to find and eliminate any remaining Volgar, the birdmen who feast on human flesh.

Along the journey tracking the Volgar, Kiell comes upon a young woman lying broken on the rocks below a cliff. He chooses to heal her and as she recovers, he learns that the woman has had visions of him and the future.

Sasha has been a servant for the past four years. She does not remember her past, but she is learned which is unusual. Of more concern is the fact that Sasha sees visions and most often they signal trouble without clarity. When her mistress dies, the people of the village want to get rid of Sasha because they don’t like what she has tried to tell them. After falling from a cliff, Sasha wakes from pain to see a face she has known in her dreams and visions. She is afraid that Kiell won’t believe her, but she is quickly able to convince him that she is a Gifted sear.

Sasha commits herself to stay with Kiell in spite of his efforts to leave her behind. Kiell once loved a woman who used and betray him. He no longer does love and isn’t too quick to give compassion. Sasha pushes him to find his suppressed emotions.

Sasha announces that she ‘belongs’ to him and doesn’t give up until Kiell acknowledges the he ‘belongs’ to her. Then a stranger steps up to reveal Sasha’s true identity and help her remember her past. Now Kiell has to step away or guard her as he returns her to another kingdom, to lands that may still contain the remnants of the Volgar. Meanwhile, an old, ambitious and dark enemy is stalking Kiell. Kiell has to fight to survive external enemies even as he has to struggle to keep his heart from breaking.

I had forgotten how lyrical this author is. I was engaged from the moment the story started. The characters are complex with hidden feelings and emotions that are drawn out during their journey. There is intrigue, danger, and wonderful romantic conflict. My heart yearned for this couple to accept their love and find a way to be together. This is a story where I was glued to finish but reluctant to be done. I will be looking for other books by Amy Harmon. Although this book could be read as a standalone, I recommend reading book one, The Bird and the Sword, first which introduces most of the characters and gives important background to the world they live in.

Audio Notes: Steve West is a perfect match for the lyrical writing and emotion. He smoothly provides distinct voices and nails the emotional depths. I will be looking for other books narrated by West as I totally enjoyed his presentation. The audio production has soft background sounds such has horses neighing and turmoil during battle. These enhanced the listening experience for me.

Source: Purchased at Kindle for $.99, then Audible at $7.99. This qualifies for 2020TBR, 2020Audiobook and 2020Alphabet goals.

#NetGalley Book Review: Archangel Rising by Evan Currie

I enjoyed the strategies, space battles, and tension in this second book.

Archangel Rising
(released January 14, 2020)
by Evan Currie

File Size: 3685 KB
Print Length: 281 pages
Publisher: 47North (January 14, 2020)
ASIN: B07V3KZZFQ
Genre: Sci-Fi, Space Marine Sci-Fi
My Rating: 4.5 of 5.0.

Archangel Squadron faces off against the forces of the brutal Protectorate to claim a prize, and save humanity, in a gripping novel of deep space jeopardy by the author of the Odyssey One series.
At the helm of a commandeered freighter, Captain Steph Michaels has infiltrated the Free Star systems. Leading a captive crew, and posing as a privateer, he’s on a mission to seize a precious resource from an enemy outpost. Backed by his Archangel Squadron, it’s a smash-and-grab operation he can pull off in his sleep. Until it isn’t.
Before he and his “pirates” can strike, they’re met with an unexpected obstacle. The mining compound they’re targeting also houses camps of slave laboring families. It’s an innocent population Steph refuses to sacrifice as collateral damage, and his morality will drive him to greater extremes than ever before. With a ruthless enemy commander facing them down, Steph will find himself in conflict with not just the Free Stars but potentially with the Empire itself.
The odds of victory? Impossible to foretell.

Review:
Captain Step and his Archangel Squadron has infiltrated the Free Star system as a pirate/privateer squad. Step is leading the six specialized, fast and camouflaged ships from the deck of the seized destroyer dubbed The Dutchman. They planned to swoop in and take over a Protectorate mining facility but plans change when they discover that the workers are ‘slave’ labor with their families held as leverage in slave camps.

Step has to change his plans on the fly which might work out except that an Imperial fleet suddenly appears to see what is going on at one of the stations that supply them with an important element. Now Step and his fleet are facing overwhelming odds.

Meanwhile, Eric and the Odysseus fleet have been exploring deep space. Initially, they have been trying to fly under the sight of Imperial fleets but now they are ready to push some interaction with the enemy. Eric is testing the enemy on the horizon and hoping for interest, not a battle confrontation. But he doesn’t know the commander of the Imperial Eighth Fleet. She is determined to know more about this new enemy.

This is book two which continues where Archangel One left off. The characters were established in book one and their traits carry through. I totally enjoy the cocky bravado of Step and the fact that his crew are resignedly ready to follow his risky, but brilliant, plans. Eric also has a unique relationship with the Odysseus AI ‘being’ as Eric tries to explain human nuances, gut and instinctive reactions to the unemotional AI.

There is plenty of intrigue, tension and fast-paced action that kept me engaged. I would love to continue in the series as stories become available. In the meantime, I will go back and listen to The Heart of the Matter, book two in the Odyssey One series. I recommend this author and these series to readers who enjoy space marine sci-fi.

Source: 2019 NetGalley. This qualifies for 2020TBR, 2020NetGalley and 2020Alphabet goals.

Audible Book Review: Nice Dragons Finish Last by Rachel Aaron

I did get to really enjoy this story with a nice dragon who has to prove his worth.
Nice Dragons Finish Last
Heartstrikers, Book 1
By: Rachel Aaron
Narrated by: Vikas Adam


Length: 13 hrs and 31 mins
Unabridged Audiobook
Release date: 11-18-14
Language: English
Publisher: Audible Studios
Genre: Cyberpunk, Paranormal, Sci-Fi, Urban Fantasy
My Rating: 4.25 of 5.0 Overall; Story 4.25; Narration 4.25.

Publisher's Summary
Audie Award, Fantasy, 2016
As the smallest dragon in the Heartstriker clan, Julius survives by a simple code: keep quiet, don't cause trouble, and stay out of the way of bigger dragons. But this meek behavior doesn't fly in a family of ambitious magical predators, and his mother, Bethesda the Heartstriker, has finally reached the end of her patience. Now, sealed in human form and banished to the DFZ - a vertical metropolis built on the ruins of Old Detroit - Julius has one month to prove he can be a ruthless dragon or kiss his true shape goodbye forever. But in a city of modern mages and vengeful spirits where dragons are considered monsters to be exterminated, he's going to need some serious help to survive this test. He only hopes humans are more trustworthy than dragons....
©2014 Rachel Aaron (P)2014 Audible Inc.

Review:
Julius is the youngest and smallest dragon of the Heartstriker clan. He has stayed out of the limelight for his 24 years, hiding in his room, trying to stay out of the way of his tyrannical mother and playing online games with humans. Dragons are magical predators who don’t mix well with humans. But Julius is not aggressive and has no inclination to seek domination over humans. His mother, Bethesda, has had enough. She binds his wings with magic and drops him in the middle of the DFZ, ruins of Old Detroit, where dragons aren’t welcome.

Fortunately, Julius has many brothers and sisters, some of whom are willing to give him a little direction and help. Jessica provides at least a place to sleep for the first night. The eldest, rather strange brother, Bob, who is the clan sear, sets up a bank account with almost $100.00 bucks in it, provides a cell phone and provides advice for the day. His extremely successful brother, Ian,
then offers Julius a job. He is tasked to locate and return a young runaway dragoness, Katya, from a rival clan.

As Julius waits to locate Katya he is approached by a human mage who offers her services to help Julius. Julius hesitates but soon realizes that he can help Marci and maybe she can help him. With illusions provided by Marci’s skills, the pair visits a mage party trying to locate Katya. Before they get to Katya, Julius is threatened by his sister, Chelsie, the very scary clan enforcer, and gets help from his clutch mate, Justin, who is a large warrior dragon. And all along, crazy Bob shares cryptic advice. Even with help from some of his family will Julius be able to pass his mother’s test and stay alive?

I had a little trouble getting unaccustomed to an underachiever protagonist. However, once Marci joined the team, their camaraderie and collaboration pulled me into the story. I liked how Julius revealed his worth in a different way from his clan. I was impressed with the clever, creative imagination Ms. Aaron brings to her characters, world-building and the plot. There is a good mix of humor and danger that make this a good story. I plan to pick up more in the series and recommend this to readers who enjoy a fun, urban fantasy.

Audio Notes: Vikas Adam does a good job with this narration. He provides seamless shifts from the mild voice of Julius, the imperious arrogance of Bethesda, the nervous eagerness of Marci, the craziness of Bob and all of the others. I enjoyed the audio entertainment and will get the next books on Audible too.

Source: 10/30 Audible Daily Deal $4.95. This qualifies for 2020TBR, 2020Audiobook and 2020Alphabet goal.

Audio Book Review: Olivia Twist by Lorie Langdon

This is a fun and interesting “twist” on a classic.

Olivia Twist
by Lorie Langdon
Read by Pearl Hewitt

Young Adult
• 9.5 hrs.
• Unabridged
• Black Hills Audiobooks • 2018
Genre: Clean & Wholesome, Romance, Teen & Young Adult
My Rating: 4.0 of 5.0 Overall; Story 4.0; Narration 4.0.

British narrator Pearl Hewitt introduces listeners to the mysterious Olivia Brownlow, a London-born debutante whose high-society friends are unaware of her untraditional upbringing. Hewitt characterizes Olivia with graceful and elegant tones as she mixes with elite crowds. When Olivia ventures into the dark London nights as Ollie, a kindhearted boy who looks after a group of homeless orphans, Hewitt arms her with a rougher British accent and a wise voice. When Jack MacCarron, another character leading a double life, is introduced, Hewitt seamlessly switches between the man's false Irish accent and his true English tone. Though switching between two main characters, who both have dual identities, poses quite the challenge, Hewitt accomplishes it with a smoothness that is found in only a select few narrators, flawlessly pulling off the performance. V.T. © AudioFile 2019, Portland, Maine [Published: MARCH 2019]

Review:
Olivia has a lot of interests and emotions to balance. She is more than her London society friends know as once upon a time she was a street urchin known as Ollie. Now she sneaks out at night to help a current group of homeless orphans.

Olivia is surprised and distressed when she comes face to face with another imposter. The debonair Irishman, Jack MacCarron, was Ollie’s childhood friend, Dodger, whom she believes betrayed her. On the other hand, Jack is willing to help protect the orphans even if it means he has to take risks of resurfacing as the Dodger.

Olivia has the chance to secure a safe position for herself and her ailing Uncle with her wealthy fiancé. But Olivia feels no spark with Max and he doesn’t understand her obsession with street orphans. Meanwhile, Jack has uncovered a threat to Olivia and he is determined to protect her. As they meet in secret Olivia has to fight the emotions pulling them together.

I enjoyed the characters with their dual roles. There was good chemistry and tension both in the romance and the murder threat. I admit I was a little surprised about the extent of sensual innuendo when this is promoted as “teen & young adult clean & wholesome”. It caused me some concern for my church ladies but the first couple I talked to about the story enjoyed it. I did enjoy the overall package and recommend it to fans of Dickens and historic romance.

Audio Notes: Pearl Hewitt does a remarkable job portraying the characters with their changing personas and accents. She presents the story with appropriate pacing and emotional depth. I enjoyed the audio experience.

I bought the print book for Ladies Book Club which we will discuss in April (if we meet).
Source: June 23 SYNC Audio 2019. This qualifies for 2020TBR, 2020Audiobook and 2020Alphabet goals.

Audio Book Review: Light of the Last by Chuck Black

I really enjoyed this conclusion to a Christian story with a threat of biochemical contamination.
Light of the Last
by Chuck Black
Narrated By: Katie Leigh, Michael Orenstein, Leanne Bell

Written By: Chuck Black
Narrated By: Katie Leigh, Michael Orenstein, Leanne Bell
Publisher: Christianaudio.com
Date: May 2016
Duration: 12 hours 5 minutes
Genre: Christian Action, Fantasy, Romance, Young Adult
My Rating: 4.0 of 5.0 Overall; Story 4.25; Narration 3.75.

Summary:
To Fight What Others Can’t You Must See What Others Don’t
After an accident left him temporarily blind, Drew Carter didn’t just regain his sight. He now sees what others can’t imagine–an entire spiritual realm of mighty beings at war.
Forget the gift, Drew just wants his life back. Part of that involves Sydney Carlyle, a woman he is inexplicably drawn to. When he’s offered the chance to become a CIA agent, it seems the way to redeem his past. The only problem–his visions of the supernatural realm are increasing in frequency.
It’s up to the warrior angel Validus and his hand-picked team of heavenly agents to protect the unbelieving Drew. Validus now knows that the young man is at the epicenter of a global spiritual war, and the angels must use a millennia of battle experience keep Drew alive, for the Fallen want him dead.
Surrounded by spiritual warriors and targeted by demons, Drew’s faced with an impossible decision that will forever alter the destiny of America...and his own soul.

Review:
Drew Carter has a special gift that allows him to see ‘invaders’ in a spirit realm. He has figured out there are good forces fighting evil forces but he doesn’t understand them. He just knows that he would be thought crazy if he reveals the things he’s seen. Although he saved a warehouse full of students, Drew has been arrested for attacking the FBI in his determination to get into the building and rescue Sydney. Drew is looking at a lengthy prison sentence until a man in a black suit, Mr. Ross, offers him a career with the CIA rather than prison. Drew sees this as an opportunity to serve his country like his father did.

Drew trains at the farm and tries to hide his unusual strength and speed from the trainers. Ross suspects Drew is hiding something. Through a twisted series of circumstances, Ross isolates Drew making him an undercover agent responding only to Ross. As Drew carries out his secret assignments, the spiritual warriors continue to try to protect Drew. The angels are also trying to get Drew and Sydney’s paths to cross knowing it is important for Sydney to continue to share her faith with Drew.

I enjoyed the fast-paced tension and the heavenly battle portrayed in this story. I was a little frustrated that Drew didn’t figure out sooner who the ‘invaders’ were. I was rooting for Drew and Sydney and the angels of course. I recommend this trilogy to readers who enjoy Christian suspense.

Audio Notes: Katie Leigh, Michael Orenstein, and Leanne Bell did a good job with the narration. They provided good voices and emotions. There is music in the background chapter breaks that added to the suspense nature of the story. My only difficulty with the production was that there were portions that were so quiet I couldn’t hear or decipher them. Still, I enjoyed the listening experience.

Source: 5/4/2019 Audiobooks.com two credits. This qualifies for 2020TBR, 2020Audiobook and 2020Alphabet goals.

Audible Book Review: Rise of the Locusts: A Post-Apocalyptic Techno-Thriller (Cyber Armageddon, Book 1) by Mark Goodwin

This is a fast-paced post-apocalyptic story.

Rise of the Locusts: A Post-Apocalyptic Techno-Thriller (Cyber Armageddon, Book 1)
By: Mark Goodwin
Narrated by: Stacey Glemboski

Series: Cyber Armageddon, Book 1
Length: 6 hrs and 23 mins
Unabridged Audiobook
Release date: 01-03-19
Language: English
Publisher: Goodwin America Corp.
Genre: Christian, Futuristic, Post-Apocalyptic
My Rating: 4.5 of 5.0 Overall; Story 4.5; Narration 4.5.

Publisher's Summary
Cyber Armageddon has come. America will not survive!
Cyber-security analyst Kate McCarthy knows something ominous is about to happen in the US banking system. She has a place to go if things get hectic, but it’s far from the perfect retreat.
When a new breed of computer virus takes down America’s financial network, chaos and violence erupt. Access to cash disappears and credit cards become worthless. Desperate consumers are left with no means to purchase food, fuel, and basic necessities. Society melts down instantly and the threat of starvation brings out the absolute worst humanity has to offer.
In the midst of the mayhem, Kate will face a post-apocalyptic nightmare that she never could have imagined. Her only reward for survival is to live another day in the gruesome new reality which has eradicated the world she once knew.
As with all works by Mark Goodwin, this book contains no profanity and no embarrassing sex scenes. However, if you're offended by conservative principles and references to Scripture, this book might not be for you.
©2018 Mark Goodwin (P)2018 Mark Goodwin.

Review:
Kate McCarthy works in cyber-security for a bank in Atlanta. The bank experiences a computer ‘glitch’ which requires a temporary shutdown. The bank officers are unhappy but trust Kate and her team to deal with the situation after she provides a detailed report of the risks and a plan to mitigate damage and find the breach. As the security team races against time to find the virus before it shuts down the bank, Kate begins to suspect that this is more than a simple virus. She believes there is a serious cyber threat that will shut down connectivity on a widespread, creating social chaos.

Kate convinces her brother to gather his wife and children to escape the city and seek shelter in their mountain cabin. They manage to escape the crowds but run into danger on the road that starts a trail of tragedy. The teens experience a range of emotions from confusion to fear to determination. Arriving at the cabin doesn’t assure safety especially when they discover their unproductive and noncontributing brother has already settled in with an unannounced guest. His thoughtless actions bring more trouble to their door. Things are going to get much more difficult while Kate and her family try to survive.

I have read other stories by Mark Goodwin and I believe he does a good job creating a realistic crisis and dangers. He develops characters of diverse natures who will have different but fitting reactions and growth. The story creates a bit of roller coaster tension as Kate and her family push from one danger to face another.

This is an easy and quick listen. I like that there is no foul language or sex. The author shares Christian faith, sometimes in an unusual way. I recommend this to fans of post-apocalyptic who, as noted in the blurb, don’t mind the conservative and Christian elements. I do plan to continue the series.

Audio Notes: Stacey Glemboski does a nice job with the narration. Although I am accustomed to some of the male sci-fi narrators, Glemboski delivers the emotions and intensity well from the view of the female protagonist. I enjoyed the audio and expect to listen as I continue the series.

Source: October 2019 Two for One Credit Audible Sale. This qualifies for 2020TBR, 2020Audiobook and 2020Alphabet goals.

#NetGalley Book Review: I've Never Been This Old Before by Stan Toler

This is fun entertainment and encouragement to help age more gracefully.
I've Never Been This Old Before
by Stan Toler

File Size: 2426 KB
Print Length: 144 pages
Publisher: Harvest House Publishers (February 4, 2020)
ASIN: B07Y63W5GW
Genre: Humor, Inspirational, Self Help
My Rating: 4.75 of 5.0.

Older, Wiser, Funnier!
Adjusting to middle age is a lot like getting into a hot bath. At first, it’s painful. Then, you get acclimated and it feels comfortable, but after a while you’re just lying there wondering how your skin got so pruned and why you’re too tired to get up.
Celebrate midlife and beyond with this joyful collection of wit and wisdom dedicated to both the serious and silly sides of aging. Bestselling author Stan Toler will help you face the inevitable march of time with a healthy sense of humor and a warm heart.
Packed with entertaining anecdotes, good advice from God’s Word, and smart suggestions for self-improvement, I’ve Never Been This Old Before will give you a fresh outlook on the second half of life and remind you that no matter your age, God isn’t through growing you.

Review:
I am beyond middle age and much of the humor in this book is relatable! I started smiling on the first page. I was absolutely delighted when reading revealed that the anecdotes are mixed with advice from God’s Word.

There are several suggestion lists. I had the honor to share devotion in early March at my local woman’s club. As part of my short program I shared from this book: 10 Ways You Can Turn Someone’s Life Around (location 210). We all agreed this was a great list that helps to improve our own lives by helping others. Another good list shared is “seven reasons why we should take up the torch of service and put a fire under our feet”.

The author shares wonderful attitude and action advice all woven with sound Biblical foundation. The only drawback I had with the NetGalley version was formatting issues that resulted in excessive hyphenation breaking up words and the easy flow. Hopefully, that is resolved for the released Kindle version. I highly recommend this entertaining and encouraging work to all readers although it's particularly fun and helpful for middle and senior ages.

Source: NetGalley 2019. This qualifies for 2020TBR. 2020NetGalley and 2020 Alphabet goals.

Audio Book Review: Identity Theft by Alana Terry

This is a quick listen with good suspense and nice faith elements.

Identity Theft:
An Alaskan Refuge Christian Suspense Novel
Written by Alana Terry
Narrated by Becky Doughty

Release Date: May 2, 2019
Publisher: Firstfruits Publishing
Run time: 4 hours and 6 minutes
Unabridged Audiobook
Genre: Christian, Romance, Suspense
My Rating: 4.0 of 5.0 Overall; Story 4.0; Narration 4.0.

After losing her fiancé in a devastating accident, Lacy tries her best to move on in her small Alaska town. Rugged state trooper Kurtis and his four-year-old daughter help mend her heart — but can their new life together last when Lacy’s past comes back to haunt her? A riveting work of Christian suspense.

Review:
Lacy was a young college student when she witnessed the murder of her fiancé. She moved to a small town and has tried to move on. Lacy has formed a warm relationship with a local state trooper, Kurtis, and his young daughter. But Lacy just isn’t sure if she can take a step forward which would start with telling the secrets of her past to Kurtis. Lacy is thinking of making a move out of town, but Kurtis wants her to stay.

As she is trying to deal with her confusion, Lacy’s past makes a very unexpected appearance. This brings some joy but more confusion and new danger. How can she cope with her feelings and can she escape the dangers that are closing in?

I enjoyed the tone of this quick suspense. Although I like Lacy’s character, I was a little frustrated by her inability to resolve her uncertainties. Kurtis is a lovely resolute, male character. The story moves quickly and I enjoyed the suspense, the faith elements and the twist at the end. The romance is sweet and gentle. I recommend this as a quick read/listen to fans of Christian suspense and romance.

Audio Notes: Becky Doughty does an okay job with the narration. The voice adjustments are slight rather than clearly distinct character voices. The tone fits the story. I enjoyed the audio for the quick entertainment.

Source: 9/10/19 Chirp Audio Deal Purchase for $1.99. This qualifies for 2020TBR, 2020Audiobook and 2020Alphabet goals.

Audible Book Review: Koban: Rise of the Kobani by Stephen W. Bennett

I am still enjoying this creative sci-fi series.

Koban: Rise of the Kobani
Koban, Volume 3
By: Stephen W. Bennett
Narrated by: Eric Michael Summerer

Series: Koban, Book 3
Length: 28 hrs and 14 mins
Unabridged Audiobook
Release date: 10-12-14
Language: English
Publisher: Stephen W. Bennett
Genre: Aliens, Colonization, Military Space Sci-Fi
My Rating: 4.5 of 5.0 Overall; Story 4.5; Narration 4.5.

Publisher's Summary
The Kobani use captured Krall ships to return to Human Space. They seek expert training for their genetically modified fighters, modern weapons and new medical technology. There's a possible block to this help in the form of death penalty laws of the Planetary Union, prohibiting gene modifications of humans. A holdover from the Gene War, which nearly extinguished humanity. A perilous descent through a war-torn planet's space defenses is a first step. A Krall ship and its heavily armed crew have to be destroyed on the ground, while a watching hostile Special Ops force decides if the Kobani should be trusted, or killed as Krall collaborators. Fighting their way between a rock and a hard place, they prove they are a match for the Krall. Exploration at home reveals startling alien neighbors, and a habitable world next door. A remarkable genetic discovery there will forever alter the Kobani. Winning allies, Captain Mirikami forges a bold and dangerous plan, to strike deep into the heart of Krall territory. A place the enemy is confident that puny "animals" can't reach, let alone attack. Simultaneous Kobani raids damage Krall war manufacturing, buying time for humanity. However, the Krall have a deadly ancient weapon that none expected. Retaliatory escalation of the war has been triggered, and if it doesn't go as the Krall plan, entire planets and their populations could be shattered. Read Book 1 (Koban), and Book 2 (Koban: The Mark of Koban). Book 4 (Koban: Shattered Worlds) is coming soon.
©2013 Stephen W Bennett (P)2014 Stephen W Bennett.

Review:
Merikami has led the genetically enhanced Kobani to capture three enemy Krall ships. Human troops have never been able to do this. The Kobani want to offer help and genetic secrets to humans but the reigning government has banned all genetic modifications, punishable by death. Merikami takes the Krall ships to sneak into Human Space hoping to convince the Special Ops forces to accept the help they can offer as the only chance against the stronger and more ruthless Krall.

The young Kobani are sent out to scout a Krall ship which lands near the Kobani hidden landing. They discover a filed of unattended Krall equipment and tanks. As they begin to take control of the units, the Krall return putting the young, scarcely trained Kobani in an unexpected face-off with the heavily armed enemy. Meanwhile a local Spec Ops team is watching and suspecting that the humans have inexplicably joined with the enemy.

The first thing Merikami and his men need to do is to convince the Spec Ops and the local human commander that they are not consorting with the enemy. Then they have to persuade the human troops to accept the genetic help. The program has to remain secret but there are many men who want to accept the modifications so they can be more effective in the fight against the Krall.

Merikami’s plan is to develop large enough squadrons of trained, enhanced men and women to begin to take the battle to the Kralls. The plan is to target the resource planets to remove the ships and armaments in order to slow down the massive Krall army. As the Kobanis are pulling together the additional troops, other Kobanis are reaching out to newly discovered alien species to work together as allies against the common enemy.

I was quickly pulled into the current status and goals of the Kobani. There is good action and some interesting character developments. I’m not sure I totally agree with all of the genetic modifications. There is some minor swearing and sexual innuendo. I loved the creative alien species who have distinct physical appearances and diverse mindsets.

This third book picks up 20 years after the prior book ends and doesn’t really fill in much of the background. I recommend reading this series in order to get the background history of the Kobani characters. I recommend this to sci-fi readers who enjoy strong military space adventures.

Audio Notes: Eric Michael Summerer does a wonderful job bringing the characters to life. He provides distinct and fitting voices to the humans and aliens. I really enjoy listening to this series and will be picking up book 4 soon.

Source 2019 January Audible Credit Picks. This qualifies for 2020TBR, 2020 Audiobook and 2020Alphabet goals.

Reviews for Books 1 and 2.

Audible Book Review: Evil Eye by Madhuri Shekar

This is a quick story with an ironic twist.

Evil Eye
By: Madhuri Shekar
Narrated by: Nick Choksi, Harsh Nayaar, Annapurna Sriram, Bernard White, Rita Wolf

Length: 1 hr and 38 mins
Performance
Release date: 05-02-19
Language: English
Publisher: Audible Original
Categories: Drama & Poetry, Modern Drama
My Rating: 4.25 of 5.0 Overall; Story 4.0; Narration 4.25.

About This Audible Original
Usha is convinced that the Evil Eye, a curse that brings continuous misfortune, was cast upon her daughter, Pallavi, in the womb. What else could have possibly left her driven, career-oriented daughter edging closer and closer to 30 without a prospective husband? Determined to set Pallavi on the right path, Usha arranges date after date with potential suitors—but after yet another setup fails, it seems her efforts are proving fruitless. But in an unexpected turn of events, Pallavi becomes her own matchmaker when she meets—and quickly falls for—Sandeep, a young Indian-American entrepreneur. And though she expects her mother will be elated with her finally finding a man, Pallavi is distraught and confused to find her mother growing increasingly suspicious of Sandeep’s motives…and his true identity.
Told through a series of phone calls and voicemails, this Audible Original penned by award-winning rising star playwright Madhuri Shekar transitions seamlessly from a light-hearted family dramedy to an unexpectedly supernatural thriller. With an endearing cast of well-rounded characters, sharp, natural dialogue, and a shocking edge-of-your-seat climax, Evil Eye is a can’t-miss tale about cultural miscommunications, family secrets, and the lingering echoes of trauma.
Playwright Madhuri Shekar was awarded a commission through the Audible Emerging Playwrights Fund, an initiative dedicated to developing innovative original plays driven by language and voice. As an Audible commissioned playwright, he received funding and creative support to develop Evil Eye.
Please note: This audio contains strong language, distressing situations, and descriptions of abuse and violence that some listeners may find upsetting. Discretion is advised.
©2019 AO Media (P)2019 Audible Originals, LLC.

Review:
Pallavi is a young Indian woman living in America where she enjoys pursuing her career. Her mother, Usha, has returned to India and is concerned that Pallavi is nearing 30 without a good Indian husband. Usha has tried setting Pallavi up even from a distance. Her concern is increasing as she fears that her daughter has been cursed by the Evil Eye. Pallavi has no knowledge that her mother’s own past is driving this fear.

Pallavi is excited when she stumbles upon a handsome Indian-American businessman from a well-established family. She thinks her mother will be thrilled to hear she is dating, and that the relationship is moving quickly. Instead, her mother becomes suspicious causing confusion and tension in the family. This escalates with Usha expressing increasing panic. Finally, Usha flies off to America with her husband trying to catch the next flight behind her hoping to protect his daughter and his wife.

This story has a good development to an exciting climax. I enjoyed the telling through phone calls and texts back and forth. I found it engaging to ‘observe’ the generational and cultural issues between daughter, mother and to a smaller degree, the father. There is some foul language, even early in the story but it moves off quickly. This is a good, quick listen that I recommend for fans of family drama with mystery.

Audio Notes: The narrators, Nick Choksi, Harsh Nayaar, Annapurna Sriram, Bernard White, and Rita Wolf do a grand job of bringing the characters to life. The voices match the people and the dialogue exchange. The performance is engaging and I'm glad I was able to pick this as a Audible Original when I might have missed out. 

Source May 2019 Free Audible Original. This qualifies for 2020TBR, 2020Audiobook and 2020Alphabet goals.

Audible Book Review: Jukebox Joyride by Jacob Stein, Jason Rabinowitz, The Pop Ups

This is a very fun travel adventure with music as a plus.
Jukebox Joyride
By: Jacob Stein, Jason Rabinowitz, The Pop Ups
Narrated by: Jason Rabinowitz, Jacob Stein, Cara Samantha, Susan Bennett, Noel MacNeal, Carly Ciarrocchi

Length: 3 hrs and 31 mins
Performance
Release date: 06-06-19
Language: English
Publisher: Audible Original
Genre: Children, Kids, Ages 8-10
My Rating: 4.25 of 5.0 Overall; Story 4.25; Narration 4.25.

About This Audible Original
If you could go back in time to witness any concert from all of history, what would it be? Jimi Hendrix at Woodstock? Mozart in the Salzburg court? The Beatles’ rooftop farewell?
Jukebox Joyride follows 12-year-old twins, Jules and George, on a wild adventure through time. Their Uncle Bob, a renowned ethnomusicologist (he studies music!), has discovered the secret to time travel, and is having a ball joyriding through history checking out the best concerts ever...but something’s gone wrong! A sinister force has been unleased, someone is chasing after Uncle Bob, and the fate of all music hangs in the balance!
Now, it’s up to Jules and George to find their uncle before their new rival does! It’s a musical escapade that brings the twins from the birth of jazz in New Orleans, to a performance by an 11-year-old Mozart in Vienna, all while trying to make it back to the present day to pass their history test!
Featuring original songs and historical settings, this Audible Original is sure to captivate the entire household. Jukebox Joyride is a swashbuckling adventure that will get kids excited about history and making their own music.
©2018 Audible Originals, LLC (P)2019 Audible Originals, LLC.

Review:
Jules and George are 12-year-old twins who had a close relationship with their Uncle Bob who shared his love of music with them. Uncle Bob travels to discover special music finds and one day he finds a special music box and disappears into thin air! While the twins are trying to find Uncle Bob they stumble upon the secret that sends them back in time. As they travel from one setting to another, they discover they are one step behind Uncle Bob. Fortunately, they find friends who help them by passing along messages. They follow the clues, from jazz in New Orleans to classical music with Mozart. Along the way they discover there is an enemy trying to chase down their Uncle. Can they find Bob before the enemy does?

I totally enjoyed the musical settings and songs. This is a rockin’ fun story I recommend for adults as well as children.

Audio Notes: The group of narrators, Jason Rabinowitz, Jacob Stein, Cara Samantha, Susan Bennett, Noel MacNeal, and Carly Ciarrocchi, contribute to making this a fun adventure. They share the story with appropriate voices and energy. I enjoyed the audio performance and am glad I picked this audiobook.

Source: June 2019 free Audible Original. This qualifies for 2020TBR, 2020Audiobook and 2020Alphabet goals.

Audible Book Review: Trail of Lightning by Rebecca Roanhorse

This is an entertaining fantasy with a female protagonist.

Trail of Lightning
By: Rebecca Roanhorse
Narrated by: Tanis Parenteau

Series: The Sixth World, Book 1
Length: 8 hrs and 58 mins
Unabridged Audiobook
Release date: 08-07-18
Language: English
Publisher: Audible Studios
Genre: Dystopian, Fantasy, Native American
My Rating: 4.25 of 5.0 Overall; Story 4.25; Narration 4.25.

Publisher's Summary
The sudden rising waters of a climate apocalypse have destroyed most of the planet…yet out of these waters, Dinétah, a former Navajo reservation, has been miraculously reborn. Listen along as Tanis Parenteau's impeccable narration, capturing the rhythms of Navajo speech, fully envelopes you into the Sixth World.
When Dinétah needs help finding a missing girl, Maggie - a monster hunter and supernatural killer - is its last, best hope. Trail of Lightning follows our heroine as she walks the land alongside gods, heroes of legend, and monsters alike. Reluctantly, she enlists the aid of an unconventional medicine man, and together they travel Dinétah, unraveling clues from ancient legends and trading favors with tricksters. As Maggie discovers the truth behind the killings, she will have to confront her past if she wants to survive - for what she uncovers about the monster she is sent to find is much more terrifying than anything she could imagine.
©2018 Rebecca Roanhorse (P)2018 Audible, Inc.

Review:
Maggie lives in a post-apocalyptic world that is rebuilding after a massive wave wiped out much of earth. Maggie is a fringe outsider in a group known as Dinétah, a former Navajo reservation that has survived in the deserts of what used to be Southwestern US.

As a young girl, Maggie lost her grandmother to monsters. She was rescued by a man who is viewed as a supernatural, immortal monster hunter who appears with a thunderbolt. He helped Maggie to learn and develop her own supernatural clan powers as he trained her to be a monster hunter. She was enamored and believed he was her mate until one day he questions her motives and walks away. Months later Maggie continues to hope he will return.

In the meantime, Maggie takes jobs to hunt monsters and rescue people from monsters when she can. After failing to get anyone else to respond, a family calls in Maggie to rescue their daughter from an unknown monster.

Maggie discovers a monster unlike any she has seen. She seeks advice from one of her few friends in town. The grandfatherly man, Tah, encourages Maggie to accept his grandson, Kai, a training witch doctor, as a partner. Kai explains that the monster appears to be a creature created by a powerful witch doctor.

Maggie is soon visited by the trickster, Coyote, who directs Maggie to fulfill a quest for him which will deliver a tool to uncover the person who is creating the monsters. Reluctantly Maggie allows Kai to join her as they investigate the monsters. They seek out ancient legends and face danger and death before Maggie ends up lured into a deadly confrontation.

I liked the world-building which includes connections to Native American traditions and legends. Maggie is a very tough young woman, full of angst, and I did not find her to be a totally sympathetic character. I liked Kai but he is also hiding secrets. The ending of this book includes a climax that leaves a cliff hanger for the next book. The dystopian is heavier on fantasy and romantic conflict but is entertaining enough that I may look to pick up book 2 in the future.

Audio Notes: Tanis Parenteau does a very good job with the narration. I liked her natural accent and distinct voices for the characters. The audio production enhanced my enjoyment of the story.

Source: 2/2/2019 Audible Daily Deal $2.95. This qualifies for 2020TBR, 2020Audiobook and 2020Alphabet goals.

Book Review: Accidental Activist: Justice for the Groveland Four by Josh Venkataraman and Barbara Venkataraman

This reveals that working for a good cause may mean persevering through a frustrating process.
Accidental Activist: Justice for the Groveland Four
by Josh Venkataraman and Barbara Venkataraman

File Size: 1221 KB
Print Length: 101 pages
Publication Date: October 15, 2019
Sold by: Amazon.com Services LLC
Language: English
ASIN: B07Z5TYNT7
Genre: Civics, Non-Fiction, Social Activist Biographies
My Rating: 4.5 of 5.0.

This book will take you through my incredible four year quest for justice for The Groveland Four and teach you how to pursue your own causes, whatever they may be. It is a primer for positive action, a journey through Florida's past as well as its future. Some of the things you will learn: everything takes more time than you think, nothing ever goes according to plan, help can come from unexpected places, time is on your side, everyone is connected to everyone else, you can reach your tipping point for success and not even realize it, your goals can change along the way, and flexibility is key. Let's get started, shall we?
***Proceeds from the sale of this book will be used to establish "The Charles Greenlee Memorial Scholarship" to benefit a child with an incarcerated parent.

Review:
The Groveland Four refers to a 1949 ‘notorious’ case of four young African-American men who were accused of raping a 17-year-old Caucasian woman in Lake County, Florida. One of the accused was shot while fleeing. Charles Greenlee was a 16-year-old who had just arrived in town seeking work. He and the others were taken into custody and beaten until two of them confessed. Evidence that supported their innocence was suppressed and they were found guilty by an all white jury. Greenlee was sentenced to life in prison and the other two were sentenced to death. Thurgood Marshall appealed the convictions which were overturned on the basis the men did not receive a fair trial. Before a new trial could take place two of the men were shot, one killed, by the county sheriff. Later investigations revealed the bigotry and lies that surrounded this travesty of justice.

Josh Venkataraman, as an energetic college student, read a story about the Groveland Four and became determined to do something about this injustice. His interest soon turned into a passionate effort to seek a pardon for these men. Josh learned that pursuing a cause takes a bit of luck getting support by the right people, sometimes hitting the right time, but most of all it takes perseverance. The book describes the long journey and shares the input of many other characters who were involved in the process including a Pulitzer prize-winning author, Greenlee’s daughter, and even two middle-grade students who started with a book report and expanded to active postcard campaigns.

This is a wonderfully inspiring work that shares a frustrating process. I had heard of the Groveland Four but didn’t really know the full story. The cause to seek posthumous pardon, and possible exoneration, was a worthy cause but still it struggled for support to get attention, to get through the bureaucracy of government and to succeed in the even more difficult task of getting on the agenda of the clemency board.

I liked the way the book was presented with concise sections focusing on specific stages of the process and adding the people and events that provided support and encouragement along the way. Josh shares the thoughts of the other participants during the events so the reader feels more engaged in the effort. I recommend this to readers who are interested in history and in learning about the process of promoting a specific cause.

Source: December 2019 received from the Authors. This qualifies for 2020TBR and 2020Alphabet Author title goals.

#NetGalley Book Review: Reimagining Mr. Right by Wynter Daniels

This is a fun romance with a touch of magic.

Reimagining Mr. Right
by Wynter Daniels

File Size: 372 KB
Print Length: 234 pages
Publisher: CPC Publishing (January 7, 2020)
ASIN: B07YSQ6J3X
Genre: Paranormal Romance, Romantic Comedy
My Rating: 4.25 of 5.0.

Former ugly duckling Sydney McCoy yearns to break into television. And the hottest guy she works with—TV sports personality, Chip Haggerty—could be her ticket to the airwaves. Too bad that Chip hardly knows Sydney is alive. Worse, she has no clue how to speak Chip’s sports-oriented language.
Up-and-coming real estate agent Levi Barnett is desperate to convince the owner of a hot downtown property to sell so the company Levi works for can redevelop the site into a multi-million-dollar complex. When he literally crashes into a woman he knew in high school who could champion his cause, he’ll do anything to get Sydney’s help. All she wants from him in return is help communicating with her office crush. No problem! But when Levi starts to fall for the beautiful Sydney, he wonders if he’s making the worst mistake of his life by being her would-be Cyrano de Bergerac.

Review:
Although Sydney is now trim and attractive, she tends to see herself as the overweight nerd she was in high school. She developed an unrequited crush on the popular football player, Levi, whom she tutored. Years later Sydney is a good reporter hoping to break into television. She is set on dating a co-worker, ex-baseball star, Chip, who is a popular TV sports personality. Chip often gets Sydney to fine-tune his reports but he hasn’t noticed her as a woman. Sydney thinks she could get his attention if she could only understand all the sports lingo he constantly throws out.

Levi is now a successful real estate agent who hopes to gain a partnership with his company. He is working hard to talk two downtown property owners into selling to his company so they can redevelop the site. Meanwhile, the boss’s daughter is pursuing Levi to renew their relationship that he ended several months back.

Levi literally crashes into Sydney outside a coffee shop. She recognizes him immediately but had to remind him of who she was. He is smitten and will do anything to renew a friendship with her. He is frustrated when she only wants his help to get Chip’s interest.

With Levi’s help, Sydney manages to start dating Chip. Her dad, a sports enthusiast, is excited to meet Chip and Chip is even able to help Sydney’s ailing mother. But Sydney is conflicted as she is enjoying her time with Levi and beginning to realize that Chip might not be the prize boyfriend she wants.

Levi wants to help Sydney and Sydney wants to help Levi realize his dreams. Along the way, they get crossed messages. Will they deny their attraction to each other thinking it is best for the other?

These are fun characters with vulnerabilities and conflicts that contribute to a star-crossed romance. The story is lighthearted even as it deals with emotional baggage. There is a touch of paranormal in the midst of the story which is fun and interesting but played only a small part. I am curious if it is a larger part of some of the other books and I would be glad to read more in the series. I recommend this as a fun “rom-com”.

Source: NetGalley 2019. This qualifies for 2020TBR, 2020NetGalley and 2020Audiobook goal.

Audible Book Review: Unleashed, Andy Carpenter, Book 11, by David Rosenfelt

This is a fun series I like to revisit regularly.
Unleashed
Andy Carpenter, Book 11
By: David Rosenfelt
Narrated by: Grover Gardner

Length: 6 hrs and 47 mins
Unabridged Audiobook
Release date: 07-23-13
Language: English
Publisher: Listen & Live Audio, Inc.
Genre: Legal Procedures, Mystery, Traditional Detective
My Rating: 4.25 of 5.0 Overall; Story 4.25; Narration 4.25.

Publisher's Summary
Audie Award Winner, Mystery, 2014
Andy Carpenter's accountant, Sam Willis, receives a surprise call from Barry Price, a friend he hasn't spoken to in years. Barry needs Sam's financial acumen and Andy's legal expertise. But when Sam almost runs over an injured dog on the way to Barry's house, he can't drive off without waiting for help. By then, Barry's taken off on a private airplane headed to who-knows-where. Soon after they learn that Barry's plane has crashed, and they come to the terrifying realization that Sam was also supposed to have been killed on that plane. Barry was in far more serious trouble than either of them knew, and for Sam and Andy, the trouble is only beginning.
©2013 Tara Productions, Inc. (P)2013 Listen & Live Audio, Inc.

Review:
Andy continues in his usual lackadaisical lifestyle. He is wealthy enough that he doesn’t need to work … which is just fine with him. His wizard accounting friend, Sam, contacts Andy to ask his help for another friend, Barry. Sam is on his way to meet with Barry but gets delayed when he hits a dog. Sam stops to care for the injured animal which turns out to be fortunate as Barry’s private airplane, where Sam was to join him, crashes.

Sam, who has adopted the injured golden retriever, presses Andy to represent Barry’s wife when she gets accused of murder. Andy reluctantly agrees to the case because it means his love, Laurie, a former cop, will stay in town to help with the investigation. The team gathers: Laurie, Sam and his geriatric group of computer hackers, Hike, a cynical attorney who works with Andy, and Marcus, Andy’s massive bodyguard. The investigation sends Andy and Marcus to Maine for the first lead. They have a short meeting with their contact but before the next morning, the man and his friends are found dead. The team soon realize that Barry was involved in something more serious than some accounting problems. Soon the trouble comes hunting for Sam and Andy as they have to dodge bullets and then Barry’s wife fingers Sam for the murder.

There is a certain formula to the Andy Carpenter mysteries. Dogs play a part and before the mystery is solved, Andy and Laurie call in the FBI through their friend Cindy. I still enjoy the journey with the convoluted plots and the snarky characters. Each story can be read alone but I do think they are more fun if you read the early ones to learn the personalities of the characters.

Audio Notes: Grover Gardner does his usual solid delivery for this series. He delivers the snark with a dry sense of humor that adds to the story for me. I totally enjoy listening to this series.

Source: November 2019 Audible Purchase $10.99. This qualifies for 2020TBR, 2020Audiobook and 2020Alphabet goals.

#NetGalley Book Review: The Gift of Gerbert's Feathers by Meaghann Weaver, Lori Wiener

This is beautifully touching.

The Gift of Gerbert's Feathers
by Meaghann Weaver, Lori Wiener

Age Range: 4 - 8 years
Grade Level: Preschool - 2
Lexile Measure: 600 (What's this?)
Hardcover: 32 pages
Publisher: Magination Press; 1 edition (February 4, 2020)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 143383023X
Genre: Children, Death and Dying, Illness
My Rating: 5.0 of 5.0.

Gerbert the gosling is strong and brave and has fun times with his family and friends but knows that, one day soon, he won’t be able to keep up with them anymore. As Gerbert prepares for his final migration, he finds a way to show his flock that he will always be with them. Includes a one-page Note to Readers and an online Note with additional information useful for parents, caregivers, grandparents, siblings, and teachers.

Review:
Gerbert is born into a loving family and flock. Sadly, as his siblings grow bigger and stronger, it is clear that something is wrong with Gerbert. He remains small and weaker. Although he has a bright, strong personality, his body continues to weaken. His parents help him with migration and his father even shares the experience of leading the flock for a short time.

When the time for the next migration comes, it is clear that Gerbert will not be able to join them physically. He finds a special way to leave a blessing for all of his family and friends so that he can be with them always in memory especially as they remember him and his special gifts.

This book opens with a page explaining to parents that it may be used to help young children who are suffering from a terminal illness and help children who are experiencing terminal illness in another family member or special friend. It is more directed toward child death but could be helpful facing the loss of any loved one.

I appreciated the brave, cheerful character of Gerbert. The story is straightforward and easy to share or be read by a mature young reader. The story does tend to bring one close to tears so I imagine it would be best for an adult to be present with a younger reader to help share the burdens of fear and sadness. The illustrations are soft and beautiful.

This provides a very graceful approach toward facing death and loss. Even if a family is not facing a death within its circle, this story would promote empathy for others in that circumstance. I recommend this as a beautiful story to share.

Source: NetGalley 2019-20 (Selected in December but received 2020.) This qualifies for 2020NetGalley and 2020Alphabet goals.

Audible Book Review: The Paradigm by Jonathan Cahn

Wow - This is more striking than even I expected!
All of us in the Ladies Book Club were rather stunned by this book.

The Paradigm
The Ancient Blueprint That Holds the Mystery of Our Times
By: Jonathan Cahn
Narrated by: Paul Michael

Length: 9 hrs and 20 mins
Unabridged Audiobook
Release date: 11-06-17
Language: English
Publisher: christianaudio.com
Genre: Christian Prophesy
My Rating: 4.75 of 5.0 Overall; Story 5.0; Narration 4.75.

Publisher's Summary
This may be the most explosive and amazing thing you've ever read
Is it possible that an ancient blueprint holds the secret behind the events of our times?
Could this blueprint lie behind the rise and fall of leaders and governments?
Could events that took place nearly 3,000 years ago now be determining the course of our world and with it the course of our lives?
Could ancient figures from the Middle East hold the key to the leaders of our own day, what they do, when they rise, and when they fall?
Is it possible that this ancient paradigm has determined not only the events of modern times but also their timing - even down to the exact days and dates?
Could a mystery from the ancient Middle East have foretold the outcomes of current events more accurately than any poll or expert - even the outcomes of presidential elections?
Has this mystery even touched the events of your life?
Does the paradigm reveal what will take place in the future?
And does it contain a warning critical for every person in this generation?
Prepare to be stunned, shocked, illuminated, and amazed. The Paradigm will reveal secrets and mysteries taking place all around you and show you what you never could have imagined. Jonathan Cahn, who caused an international stir with his New York Times best-selling book The Harbinger, will take you from the ancient Middle East to the news of the modern world on a journey you will never forget. As you open up The Paradigm, his most explosive book yet, you may never see your world the same way again.
©2017 eChristian (P)

Review:
Paradigm means: “a typical example or pattern of something; a model.” Jonathan Cahn starts with a Biblical Old Testament time (1 Kings 16 through 2 Kings 10) when Israel was slipping into decadence, turning its back on Godly principles. The king of Israel at the time, Ahab, was raised knowing God but he married Jezebel, a Phoenician princess who was raised in a culture worshipping Goddesses and Baal. She was a strong influence bringing the religion of Baal, including child sacrifice, to Israel. Queen Jezebel is seen to epitomize an evil, wicked queen. Even after Ahab was killed, Jezebel continued in the palace, first during the short reign of Ahaziah and then with “the heir”, Joram. Joram continued the slide of the nation away from God. Joram's reign would have brought God’s judgment to the nation sooner but for a “warrior”, Jeru. Jeru was not necessarily a Godly man, and was sometimes viewed as ‘crazy’, but God used him to exterminate the house of Ahab for the sins they brought to the nation. This brought a reprieve to Israel although ultimately the nation refused to return to God and punishment eventually came when the people were taken into captivity.

Cahn presents a parallel that aligns the events of Ahab, Jezebel, Joram and Jeru with certain modern-day political leaders (a 'king', a 'queen', an heir and a warrior) in America. It is remarkable in matching the number of years, similar events and personal characteristics, even like-meaning names. Since the 1960s, our country, like Israel at the time of Ahab, has been turning away and removing God from our personal and national lives. Sexual wantonness, sacrificing of children (taking of innocent lives), and challenging of Biblical morals was increasing in our country, even to the point of declaring fundamental Christians to be terrorists.

I think some people would refuse to read this if they knew the characters involved but that is very sad. The bottom line, last chapters of the book, contains a warning to the nation, but more importantly a warning to each individual. If God is real (and it is hard to deny when you see all the God-incidences -not coincidences- revealed by this and other works by Cahn) then we need to be about upholding God’s righteousness and sharing His message.

Before listening to this book, I had heard a little about it from some friends at church but I had no idea of the extent of the parallels until listening for myself. I have found all five books by Cahn to be remarkable and wonderful reading. This is the third of the books shared with Ladies Book Club. Although I am sure Cahn is a skilled scholar, my friends in Ladies Book Club and I believe that Cahn has received Godly inspiration for his books. One friend noted that Cahn is an Elijah today. I highly recommend this book and all of Cahn’s books to Christ-followers and I wish all people would read them.

Audio Notes: For the most part Paul Michael does a good job with the narration. He did mispronounce several of the Jewish/Hebrew terms and names which was a little distracting. Beyond those errors, I liked the awe and excitement that comes through Michael’s narrating. I enjoyed the audio version but want to get a print copy for future reference.

2/1/2020 Audible Credit Purchased for Ladies Book Club. This qualifies for 2020Audiobook and 2020Alphabet goals.

Audible Book Review: Black Crow, White Snow by Michael Livingston

This is a short, female-powered survival story.

Black Crow, White Snow
by Michael Livingston
Narrated by: Janina Edwards

Length: 2 hrs and 37 mins
Original Recording Audiobook
Release date: 05-02-19
Language: English
Publisher: Audible Original
Categories: Sci-Fi & Fantasy, Fantasy: Epic
My Rating: 3.75 of 5.0 Overall; Story 3.5; Narration 4.25.

About This Audible Original
In a world where women hold all the power and men have barely been an afterthought, an intrepid shipmistress must put aside everything she knows if she is to save her people.
Bela is at the helm of the Sandcrow, a ship sent from calm seas to the far frozen north in search of a legendary power that could turn the tide of war. Locked into ice, the Sandcrow is lost. Now, for the shipmistress and her crew, a desperate voyage becomes a chilling struggle for survival against nature, fear, and prejudice.
If Bela can lead them to their ultimate destination, will the magic they find be their redemption—or their destruction?
©2019 Michael D. Livingston (P)2019 Audible Originals, LLC.

Review:
Bela is the Mistress of the Sandcrow, a ship with a primarily female crew who have been sent to the frozen icefields of the north. The society of the crew is matriarchal with a class system that respects earned skills. It is also a world with an ugly disdain for men.

The crew is determined to find a legendary power that could bring hope to their people in a fight against enemies with skyships. Included in the crew are a magician and one male, a young man trained as a Reader. Reading and storytelling are necessary but held in low regard compared to warriors and sailors.

The crew fights through one tragedy after another after the ship is trapped in the ice. Those who survive the vicious attack of a huge white bear must abandon the ship and decide whether to go back or forward. Mistress Bela, now an injured warrior leader, is intent on completing the mission but not everyone agrees. Along with her female partner, Bela finds a surprising ally in the young Reader. As their trek takes them to more danger, but closer to their goal, Bela struggles just to keep everyone alive.

I found the characters interesting although I felt the demeaning treatment of the male (and attitude towards men) was abhorrent. The settings and fight for survival are vividly described. I did find myself rooting for the success of the battered survivors. I was glad Bela’s character wasn’t as prejudiced as some of the others and I appreciated her willingness to allow other perspectives.

The story is short and perhaps sets up as an introduction of warring peoples. I liked the first-person voice and I felt this short work was sufficient to get a feel for the creativity and valid storytelling skills of the author. I rarely read stories with gay or lesbian characters. This story does have some (not graphic) lesbian love scenes but focuses more on the matriarchal society issues. I recommend this to readers who like survival adventures.

Audio Notes: Janina Edwards delivers this story with a wonderfully exotic (West Indian) accent. It took a few minutes to get accustomed to the voice and the writing style, but they soon fit for me. I enjoyed the audio entertainment.

Source: 5/17/19 Free Audible Original. This qualifies for 2020TBR, 2020Audiobook and 2020 Alphabet goals.

#NetGalley Book Review: A Tangle of Brungles by Shobha Viswanath

This has great images and a fun, if nonsensical story.
A Tangle of Brungles
by Shobha Viswanath and Culpeo Fox (Illustrator)

File Size: 22942 KB
Print Length: 34 pages
Publisher: Karadi Tales (August 28, 2018)
Publication Date: December 1, 2019
Language: English
ASIN: B0821CCYL1
Genre: Educational, Illustrated, Middle Grade, Picture Book
My Rating: 4.0 of 5.0.

To conjure up the charming Mr. Brungles, a coven of witches stir up the Great Brungle Brew. For this they toss in a parliament of owls, a cloud of bats, and a quiver of cobras, among many others. Do they succeed? The book is a hilarious twist on collective nouns.

Review:
One of the coven of witches decides she is ready to marry and she has chosen the handsome Mr. Brungle as her mate. Now, with a multitude of collective nouns -- lounge of lizards, mischief of mice, a quiver of cobras are just a few. The Great Brungle Breww comes together but will Mr. Brungle appear and cooperate in the plan?

I totally loved the idea of the collective nouns. Who knew that multiple cats are a clowder? As fun as the plurals are, the placement is random and the story pretty nonsensical. I think the effort of the collective nouns gets a little lost in the presentation. I will say that the illustrations are stunning in color and rendering. I suggest checking the Look Inside feature to see if it gets your interest or would be suitable as a fun teaching tool.

Source: NetGalley 2019-20 (Selected in December but received 2020.) This qualifies for my 2020NetGalley and 2020Alphabet goals.

Audible Book Review: The Final Day by William R. Forstchen

This is a solid conclusion of another post-apocalyptic series on my TBR list.

The Final Day
By: William R. Forstchen
Narrated by: Bronson Pinchot

Series: After (Forstchen), Book 3
Length: 12 hrs and 11 mins
Unabridged Audiobook
Release date: 01-03-17
Language: English
Publisher: Blackstone Audio, Inc.
Genre: Political Thriller, Post-Apocalyptic, Thriller, Sci Fi
My Rating: 4.25 of 5.0 Overall; Story 4.25; Narration 4.0.

Publisher's Summary
The highly anticipated follow-up to William R. Forstchen's New York Times best-sellers, One Second After and One Year After, The Final Day immerses listeners once more in the story of our nation's struggle to rebuild itself after an electromagnetic pulse wipes out all electricity and plunges the country into darkness, starvation, and terror.
After defeating the designs of the alleged federal government, John Matherson and his community have returned their attention to restoring the technologies and social order that existed prior to the EMP (Electro-Magnetic Pulse) attack. Then the government announces that it is ceding large portions of the country to China and Mexico. The Constitution is no longer in effect, and what's left of the US Army has been deployed to suppress rebellion in the remaining states.
The man sent to confront John is General Bob Scales, John's old commanding officer and closest friend from prewar days. Will General Scales follow orders, or might he be the crucial turning point in the quest for an America that is again united? As the dubious Federal government increasingly curtails liberty and trades away sovereignty, it might just get exactly what it fears: revolution.
©2017 William R. Forstchen (P)2017 Blackstone Audio, Inc.

Review:
John Matherson and his community are slowly starting to make a come-back after the break down of society as a result of an EMP strike two years ago. John struggles as the leader who has had to make some really hard choices, including executing vicious members of a gang and a young man who was stealing from the community. The community has no ability to house prisoners and he felt these actions, even if difficult, set the best example. However, the actions didn’t go over well with those who claim to be the restored government, particularly after John led a successful defense against being overtaken by a government-led attack by an overbearing military leader.

John, his seven-month pregnant wife, Makala, and the community are preparing to face a tough winter. They know that they have to be careful of threats from rogue groups as well as possible threats from the government too. When John is advised that a beaten man tried to reach him with a message from his old military friend, General Bob Scales. John was on the phone with Scales who was in the Pentagon on “the Day” when the call got cut off. John is excited that Scales may be alive, and John becomes intent on getting to him to try to find out what is really going on at the “federal” government level.

John manages to get a message to Scales at the risk of important resources. Scales shows up to meet with John and bring the orders that he is supposed to bring John back to the headquarters to face charges for assassination. Instead of taking John in, Scales lets him stay but tells him to lay low so that they can pretend he is in custody.

A couple of men in the community have made a remarkable discovery in the college basement. They are on the edge of having a chance to communicate or at least listen to conversations. But there is also a leak - maybe a mole - who is feeding information to the government. That leak sets John and Makala as targets and tensions rise between John and Scales. Then Scales gets a decoded message that triggers his suspicions and anger. This sends Scales, his troops, John and his hand-picked militia off on an unexpected tactical reconnaissance that is bound to stir up trouble.

It had been several years since I read books one and two in the series (One Second After and One Year After). Book three starts about two years after "the day" and fills in the background with a good reminder of what took place to this point. I really liked the detailed picture of this small mountain community struggling with realistic problems such as limited electricity, water, and food and other day to day items like soap and clothing. John has bittersweet memories that are accompanied by clear envy of his friend’s supply of real coffee! I was puzzled that John never tried to uncover the leak, and I was curious what the title “the final day” would reveal. I did enjoy the action and the twists as John and Scales uncover secrets that change the path of the future.

This story delivers a solid post-apocalyptic/dystopian mix of survival and military intrigue. I recommend the full series to readers who enjoy this genre.

Audio Notes: Bronson Pinchot does a solid job with the narration although the quality of the audio seemed ‘old’ to me. It just didn’t sound crisp. Also, the delivery tends to be a slow drawl which is a bit disconcerting even if it does fit the weary struggles of the characters. I did get over these audio issues and still enjoyed the overall product.

Source: 9/1/18 Audible Sale $5.95. This qualifies for 2020TBR, 2020Audiobook, and 2020Alphabet goals.