Audible Book Review: The Tales of Beedle the Bard by J.K. Rowling

This is nice but not as good as I had expected/hoped.
The Tales of Beedle the Bard
By: J.K. Rowling
Narrated by: Warwick Davis, Noma Dumezweni, Jason Isaacs, Jude Law, Evanna Lynch, Sally Mortemore, Bonnie Wright

Series: Wizarding World, Wizarding World Length: 1 hr and 35 mins
Release date: 03-31-20
Publisher: Pottermore Publishing
Categories: Children's Audiobooks, Fairy Tales, Folk Tales & Myths
My Rating: 3.75 of 5.0 Overall; Content 3.5; Narration 4.0.

About This Audible Audiobook
Performed by talented actors from across the Wizarding World, this is the first ever audiobook edition of The Tales of Beedle the Bard, which was originally written in 2007 by J.K. Rowling and has raised money for her children's charity Lumos ever since.
As familiar to Hogwarts students as "Cinderella" and "Sleeping Beauty" are to Muggle children, Beedle's stories are a collection of popular fairy tales written for young witches and wizards. So, if you're wondering what's in store in this brand-new audio edition…well, your ears are in for a treat.
Once you've checked this fabulous Hogwarts Library book out, you'll start by hearing the author's introduction, read by Sally Mortemore (librarian Madam Pince from the Harry Potter films). Then it's time for the tales to begin…
• You'll laugh along to "The Wizard and the Hopping Pot" as you listen to the havoc wreaked by a father's impish gift to his son, read by Warwick Davis (Professor Flitwick—Harry Potter films).
• "The Fountain of Fair Fortune" will take you on a quest through an enchanted garden, alongside three witches and a luckless knight, read by Evanna Lynch (Luna Lovegood—Harry Potter films).
• In "The Warlock's Hairy Heart", you'll be warned about a young warlock who is fearful of love, and turns to dark magic to avoid it at all costs, read by Jason Isaacs (Lucius Malfoy—Harry Potter films).
• The calamitous meeting of a foolish king, a cunning charlatan and a mischievous washerwoman unravels in "Babbitty Rabbitty and her Cackling Stump", read by Bonnie Wright (Ginny Weasley—Harry Potter films).
• And finally, the most iconic of Beedle's stories. "The Tale of the Three Brothers"—with its message of humility and wisdom—will introduce you, dear listener, to the Deathly Hallows, read by Noma Dumezweni (Hermione Granger—Harry Potter and the Cursed Child, London's West End and New York's Broadway).
Each of the tales is accompanied by wise and whimsical notes from a certain Albus Dumbledore, surely everyone's favorite headmaster, read by Jude Law (Albus Dumbledore—Fantastic Beasts films).
We're told these five fables have been firm favorites in wizarding households for centuries, and now it's your turn to experience these tales from the Wizarding World, as you've never heard them before.
©2008 J.K. Rowling (P)2020 J.K. Rowling/Pottermore Publishing

Review:
I was looking forward to this as a revisit to creatures and possibly characters from the Harry Potter series. There are five new (though the themes aren’t new) fairytale stories which I did enjoy. I think my favorite was the first, "The Wizard and the Hopping Pot", both for its whimsy, irony and wisdom. The other stories themselves are okay.

Following each tale is a commentary by Albus Dumbledore – narrated by Jude Law. Although the commentary is a bit interesting, adding historical context, I found it dry and boring. I can’t imagine a child finding this engaging. Maybe I am not enough of an avid Potter fan, as I felt these parts of the short audio made it less interesting. It is a plus that sale proceeds go to what appears to be a worthy charity. But, frankly, I am glad I got the book for free. I am sure diehard fans will want to read this.

Audio Notes: I liked the various narrators and the sound effects. Those added to the audio for me and made it an easier listen.

Source: 2/29/2020 Free Audible. This qualifies for 2021TBR and 2021Audiobook goals.

Audible Book Review: A Long Time Until Now by Michael Z. Williamson

This is an entertaining, character story of survival out of time.
A Long Time Until Now
By: Michael Z. Williamson
Narrated by: Dennis Holland

Length: 22 hrs and 10 mins
Release date: 06-02-15
Publisher: Audible Studios
Genre: Adventure, Alternate History, Military, Time Travel
My Rating: 4.0 of 5.0 Overall; Content 4.0; Narration 4.0.

Publisher's Summary
Book one in a new series from the creator of the best-selling Freehold Universe series.
A military unit is thrust back into Paleolithic times with only their guns and portable hardware. Ten soldiers on convoy in Afghanistan suddenly find themselves lost in time. Somehow they arrived in Earth's Paleolithic Asia. With no idea how they arrived or how to get back, the shock of the event is severe. They discover groups of the similarly displaced: imperial Romans, Neolithic Europeans, and a small cadre of East Indian peasants.
Despite their technological advantage, the soldiers only have 10 people and know no way home. Then two more time travelers arrive from a future far beyond the present. These time travelers may have the means to get back, but they aren't giving it up. In fact they may have a treacherous agenda of their own, one that may very well lead to the death of the displaced in a harsh and dangerous era.
©2015 Michael Z. Williamson (P)2015 Audible, Inc.

Review:
Ten soldiers in two military jeeps are carefully entering a dangerous area of Afghanistan. A jolt makes them think they have been hit, but then they realize otherwise. The road is gone, the temperature is cooler, there are no buildings and no visible people. As they survey their surroundings and see wooly rhinos in the distance, their combined knowledge reveals that they are lost in time – in Earth’s Paleolithic Asia. Their leader, a fairly new First Lieutenant, later named “Captain”, initially seems frozen in shock. NCO Spencer is wondering if he will have to take charge. Spencer confronts the LT and is glad when the superior officer takes charge and makes sense.

The ten ‘travelers’, eight men and two women, have a variety of useful skills. There is a Medic, a computer tech/photographer (an older female with thyroid problems), a veterinary NCO to care for animals, a linguist, a USAF Security female to help local females, several men at arms. One man is skilled at astronomy, another history, one has street smarts, and another has basic survival skills. As the days pass and the group has to build a safe base, they learn that each person is helpful.

They encounter native tribes, one peaceful and another more aggressive. The Americans are able to maintain control by advanced technology which they have been careful to use limited. They are mindful that they don’t want to inappropriately influence the primitive peoples. As the weeks go by other strangers, clearly out of time, appear and must be dealt with, like a 100 Roman soldiers. Their numbers and aggression are intimidating but the American Captain confronts them with a demonstration of superior weapons that initially convinces them to back off.

The crew struggles through medical, mental and spiritual issues. When new travelers arrive from the future there is new hope of being rescued and returning home.

I do enjoy time travel and was drawn to this book when I saw dinosaurs and warriors of mixed eras. I expected the story to be full of danger and battles but that isn’t the case at all. It is well written and the author’s military background is shown in the group dynamics. The story is a little slow and long, but I enjoyed the pepper, survival techniques and heavy focus on relationship issues. I was interested in the welfare and interaction of the characters. This story is fully resolved but noted as the first in a series. I am curious where the author would take the next book. I would also like to try other books by this author. I recommend this for readers who like time travel and survival elements, rather than battle action.

Audio Notes: Dennis Holland does a good job with the long narration. He provides effective voices even with creative language exchanges. I am very glad that I got to listen to this work.

Source: 1/31/21 Audible 2 for 1 credit sale. This qualifies for my 2021Audiobook goal.

Audible Book Review: A Change of Plans: A Short Story by Dennis E. Taylor

This is a quick teaser which might make a satisfactory intro to a new series.

A Change of Plans: A Short Story
By: Dennis E. Taylor
Narrated by: Neil Hellegers

• Length: 44 mins
• Release date: 05-26-20
• Publisher: Audible Studios
Genre: Adventure, Colonization, Short Story, Space Opera
My Rating: 3.75 of 5.0 Overall; Content 3.5; Narration 3.75.

Publisher's Summary
Earth is dying, and humanity is scrambling to set up colonies in other star systems. But the search process for habitable planets is not perfect, as the crew of the Ouroboros discover on arrival at their new home.
©2017 Dennis E. Taylor (P)2020 Audible, Inc.

Review:
Earth citizens are vying for the few spaceships available to take them to habitable planets. While many wait in line, a group of citizens has gained the ability to help pay for and build a ship to take them as the first colonists. The captain and crew are on a schedule to drop the colonists on the chosen planet and then return to Earth to get another group of citizens. But when they arrive to the chosen planet they realize that the conditions are not as expected.

Delivering the eager colonists to the surface may result in death rather than a viable colony. The captain can’t take them back because it would put them to the end of the line for another ship. The choices aren’t good. When negotiations fail, the colonists decide to implement a change of plans.

I snagged this for a quick space listen which it is. I really enjoy this author’s Bob universe with space colonization and action laced with danger and humor. Although I liked the fitting science fiction irony in this story, it left me feeling a bit “meh”. I think it might work as an introduction to a new series but as a standalone it left me wanting more and disappointed. I can recommend this as a quick filler and diehard fans of Taylor, especially as a free book on Audible Plus.

Audio Notes: Neil Hellegers does a good job with the narration. He really managed to add life to the story even though voices were not uniquely distinct. I am glad that I listened to this short story.

Source: Audible Plus Catalog March 22, 2021. This qualifies for 2021Audiobook goal.

Audible Book Review: The Monster Hunter Files Anthology by Larry Correia, Jim Butcher, Faith Hunter and more

I enjoyed this collection of stories full of monsters and snark.
The Monster Hunter Files
By: Larry Correia, Jim Butcher, Faith Hunter, Jonathan Maberry and others
Narrated by: Oliver Wyman, Khristine Hvam, Bailey Carr
Series: Monster Hunter
Length: 13 hrs and 50 mins
Release date: 10-03-17
Publisher: Audible Studios
Genre: Anthologies & Short Stories, Contemporary, Paranormal, Urban
My Rating: 4.5 of 5.0 Overall; Story 4.5; Narration 5.0.

Publisher's Summary
For well over a century, Monster Hunter International has kept the world safe from supernatural threats small and large - and, in some cases, very, very large. Now, join us as MHI opens their archives for the first time. From experienced hunters on their toughest cases to total newbies' initial encounters with the supernatural, The Monster Hunter Files reveals the secret history of the world's most elite monster fighting force.
Discover what happened when Agent Franks took on the Nazis in World War II. Uncover how the Vatican's Combat Exorcists deal with Old Ones in Mexico. And find out exactly what takes place in a turf war between trailer park elves and gnomes. From the most powerful of mystical beings to MHI's humble janitor, see the world of professional monster hunting like never before.
Featuring 17 all new tales based on Larry Correia's best-selling series, from New York Times best-selling authors Jim Butcher, John Ringo, Jessica Day George, Jonathan Maberry, Faith Hunter, and many more.
Also includes stories by Larry Correia, John C. Wright, Jody Lynn Nye, Mike Kupari, and Brad R. Torgersen.
©2017 Larry Correia. All stories 2017 by Larry Correia, except "She Bitch, Killer of Kits" 2017 by Larry Correia and Faith Hunter. (P)2017 Audible, Inc.

Review:
I enjoy the Monster Hunter International (MHI) characters, and this is a fun collection that focuses on side stories for several of the well-known characters. There are stories of Julie Stackleford’s childhood, her husband’s, Owen’s, current day, and Franks facing a major threat in WWII. There are also some new monsters and hunters I would like to read more about in the future.

Another fun thing about this collection is that there are so many authors who brought their talents to share in the MHI universe. I honestly can’t say that I recognized distinct author voices because they blended so well with the world of MHI.

There are 17 stories making for quick listens. My top picked stories include:
• Thistle by Larry Correia (I hope to see this character in future stories.)
• Small Problems by Jim Butcher (Even janitors can be successful hunters.)
• Sons of the Father by Quincy Allen (These sons may not have met their hunter father before his death but they sure got his skills.)
• A Knight of the Enchanted Forest by Jessica Day George (Light, fun turf war between elves and gnomes.)
• Huffman Strikes Back -by Bryan Thomas Schmidt & Julie Frost (Revenge sought against one of the top MHI hunters.)
• The Gift by Steve Diamond (A Secret Order of Vatican's Combat Exorcists

I recommend this book for MHI fans that need a hunter fix (like me). And readers who enjoy monsters and heroes would like this too.

Audio Notes: Oliver Wyman, Bailey Carr, Khristine Hvam did a great job sharing the fun. Wyman is the usual narrator for the MHI series and I love returning to his voice for so many of the characters. The other narrators added to vary the tone and provide more female voices which enhanced my listening engagement.

Source: Audible Daily Deal 4/24/2018 $4.95. This qualifies for 2021TBR and 2021Audiobook goals.

Audio Book Review: The Gone World by Tom Sweterlitsch

This is a twisted time travel mystery thriller.

The Gone World
by Tom Sweterlitsch
Read by Brittany Pressley

Run Time 13h 38min
Release Date: February 6, 2018
Publisher: Penguin Random House
Genre: Alternate History, Police Procedure, Post-Apocalyptic, Time Travel
My Rating: 4.25 of 5.0 Overall; Content 4.25; Narration 4.25.

Inception meets True Detective in this science fiction thriller of spellbinding tension and staggering scope that follows a special agent into a savage murder case with grave implications for the fate of mankind…
Shannon Moss is part of a clandestine division within the Naval Criminal Investigative Service. In Western Pennsylvania, 1997, she is assigned to solve the murder of a Navy SEAL’s family—and to locate his teenage daughter, who has disappeared. Though she can’t share the information with conventional law enforcement, Moss discovers that the missing SEAL was an astronaut aboard the spaceship U.S.S. Libra—a ship assumed lost to the darkest currents of Deep Time. Moss knows first-hand the mental trauma of time-travel and believes the SEAL’s experience with the future has triggered this violence.
Determined to find the missing girl and driven by a troubling connection from her own past, Moss travels ahead in time to explore possible versions of the future, seeking evidence or insight that will crack the present-day case. To her horror, the future reveals that it’s not only the fate of a family that hinges on her work, for what she witnesses rising over time’s horizon and hurtling toward the present is the Terminus: the terrifying and cataclysmic end of humanity itself.
Luminous and unsettling, The Gone World bristles with world-shattering ideas yet remains at its heart an intensely human story.

Review:
The government has secrets normal citizens don’t know. Sharon is part of a secret criminal unit that has the ability to travel to the future as part of its investigative process. It’s easier to capture a killer, and sometimes prevent a crime, if you already know where to look by seeing the future facts.

While investigating a particularly brutal murder involving a Navy SEAL and his family, Sharon learns the SEAL was an astronaut aboard a spaceship U.S.S. Libra which had traveled to Deep Time and was lost. Her further encounters lead to other members of the Libra crew, and she recognizes some of the mental trauma of time-travel that she has experienced first-hand.

Although Sharon is focused on solving the initial crime, and some other related crimes that occur along the way, she soon becomes aware from each trip in time that the Libra has started a chain reaction that will ultimately bring a horrific doom to society. Sharon’s investigations result in bringing that fate closer as what begins as a threat thousands of years in the future, moves forward to hundreds of years, then decades and then within two years. Unless Sharon can change the triggering events, the future of the world as she knows it will not exist.

Sharon can’t share the details of her special techniques and information with her civilian cohorts and this makes for interesting interactions in the current time and in future encounters. I admit the story is twisted which is fitting for time travel. The author does a good job of dealing with time travel issues of lapsed time and aging. The horrors of the Libra are a bit more contrived and stretch beyond the realms of realism. Although the epilogue is a bit lame, I give the author kudos for creating such an involved, twisted trail of events and bringing the journey back to the surprising start. I enjoyed the mix of time travel, sci fi and mystery. I recommend this to readers who like time travel and mystery, especially if they are prepared for a touch of horror.

Audio Notes: Brittany Pressley provides an excellent performance on the narration. I quickly was caught into Sharon’s life and world with the aid of the narration. Pressley delivers the characters with distinct voices and expression. The narration enhanced the story for me.

Source: 8/30/2020 Chirp Purchase for $4.99. This qualifies for 2021TBR and 2021Audiobook goals.

Audible Book Review: Baron Steele by Rhett C. Bruno, Jaime Castle

This is a quick, fun story about a retired superhero.
Baron Steele
By: Rhett C. Bruno , Jaime Castle
Narrated by: R.C. Bray

Series: Raptors, Audible Original Stories
Length: 47 mins
Release date: 10-22-20
Publisher: Audible Originals
Categories: Fantasy, Science Fiction & Fantasy
My Rating: 4.25 of 5.0 Overall; Content 4.0; Narration 4.5.

About This Audible Original
Paul Steele, known to the world as Baron Steele, isn’t your average masked crimefighter. As a matter of fact, he doesn’t even wear a mask. And he doesn’t even fight crime anymore. That’s for the guys with too much brawn and not enough brain.
No, Steele works in consulting. After having his license revoked by the Guild of Masked Crimefighters, he decided he would scout talent instead. Match up heroes with their villainous counterparts, help the young bucks and buckettes discover their talents and abilities. That sort of thing.
It’s all going fine and well until Steele gets a bad cup of coffee. No. Seriously. Day after day, the same little twerp gets his order wrong. From there, it’s a downhill spiral into chaos, and Steele finds himself fighting for his freedom in a court of law. Did he really kill a barista over a cup of joe?
Don't miss this hilarious spin on the superhero genre from the number one Audible best-selling duo of Rhett C. Bruno and Jaime Castle.
©2020 Aethon Books (P)2020 Aethon Books

Review:
Paul Steele, formerly known as masked crimefighter Baron Steele, retired from active crimefighting after he ran into problems with the superhero guild. Now Steele operates a consulting business, scouting new crimefighter talents. He interviews would-be-heroes to determine if they have appropriate skills and if they do, he helps to train them in preparation of facing a matched villain.

One morning Steele has had it with a local barista who keeps messing up his coffee. His tirade against the young man is witnessed by others and will come back to haunt him, landing him in trouble again with the Guild.

I really didn’t know what to expect, but this is a quick, fun story. Baron Steele is a gruff, realistic character. I appreciate the world-building and irony in the events, all of which are distributed in under an hour! Great for a quick listen and I will look forward to listening to more in the series. I recommend this to those who enjoy superhero, comic book type stories, and short stories.

Audio Notes: R.C. Bray does his usual spot-on narration bringing Steele’s character - the contempt, arrogance, and frustrations - to life. He also provides distinct voices and fitting emotion for each of the other characters. The narration contributed to my enjoyment of the story.

Source: Audible Plus Catalog October 2020. This qualifies for 2021TBR and 2021Audiobook goals.

Audible Book Review: Vision in Silver by Anne Bishop

This is another engaging listen in this urban fantasy series.
Vision in Silver
A Novel of the Others
By: Anne Bishop
Narrated by: Alexandra Harris

Series: The Others (Bishop), Book 3
Length: 16 hrs and 4 mins
Release date: 03-03-15
Publisher: Penguin Audio
Genre: Alternate History, Paranormal, Urban Fantasy
My Rating: 4.5 of 5.0 Overall; Story 4.5; Narration 5.0.

Publisher's Summary
The New York Times best-selling author of The Black Jewels Trilogy transports readers to a world of magic and political unrest - where the only chance at peace requires a deadly price....
The Others freed the cassandra sangue to protect the blood prophets from exploitation, not realizing their actions would have dire consequences. Now the fragile seers are in greater danger than ever before - both from their own weaknesses and from those who seek to control their divinations for wicked purposes. In desperate need of answers, Simon Wolfgard, a shape-shifter leader among the Others, has no choice but to enlist blood prophet Meg Corbyn’s help, regardless of the risks she faces by aiding him.
Meg is still deep in the throes of her addiction to the euphoria she feels when she cuts and speaks prophecy. She knows each slice of her blade tempts death. But Others and humans alike need answers, and her visions may be Simon’s only hope of ending the conflict.
For the shadows of war are deepening across the Atlantik, and the prejudice of a fanatic faction is threatening to bring the battle right to Meg and Simon’s doorstep....
©2015 Anne Bishop (P)2015 Penguin

Review:
Meg’s new friends among the Others helped to free the cassandra sangue in Book 2, Murder of Crows. Unfortunately, the fragile blood prophets are struggling to survive without the controlled settings they have been raised in. The call goes out to Simon seeking help so Meg, who has managed to find a place, work, and friends in the Lakeside Courtyard, is asked to provide guidance to help the other girls. As human friends help Meg develop a guidebook, they begin to recognize that she has her own fragility, risks and triggers. Meg knows that each prophecy slice brings her death closer, but there are pressures that make cutting urgent to the shock and disapproval of her friends.

Simon’s community at Lakeside is one of the few communities that is having success combining humans living with the Others. The community is purchasing homes to accommodate human workers while humans and Others are joining on field trips. Meg’s prophecies come just in time to protect a human family and to give a warning to Simon and a group of the Others and humans out for a shopping adventure.

Meanwhile, an opposing faction is creating difficulties between humans and the Others. That faction thinks they can cut off lines of supplies to the Other communities, but they failed to think it through since the base resources are in the control of the Others. Certain leaders in the Humans First and Last Movement are also convinced that there are jewels that have been stolen and are in the hands of one of the human officers friendly to Lakeside. Once the jewel issue is faced, there is still a threat that could intensify the already high tensions between humans and the Others.

As offensive as the cutting may be, it creates an interesting element of Meg’s growth including both confusion and emerging confidence. I enjoy the conflicted relationship between Meg and Simon which has its own sweet aspect. I am still impressed by the author’s good blend of character development and plot adventure. I look forward to listening more in this series.

Audio Notes: Alexandra Harris does a wonderful job narrating this series. She provides distinct voices and the emotions that add to the energy of the story. I plan to continue to listen to the series.

Source: 12/16/2020 November Audible Credits. This qualifies for 2021TBR, 2021Audiobook, 2021Alphabet, and 2021Color goals.

Written in Red: A Novel of the Others by Anne Bishop; My Rating: 5.0.
Murder of Crows: A Novel of the Others, Book 2, by Anne Bishop; My Rating: 4.75.

#NetGalley Book Review: A Good Day for Chardonnay by Darynda Jones

Ms. Jones writes fun stories.
A Good Day for Chardonnay
by Darynda Jones
Narrated by Lorelei King

Series: Sunshine Vicram, Book 2
Pub Date 27 Jul 2021
Release date: 07-27-21
Publisher: Macmillan Audio
Genre: Small Town & Rural Fiction, Women Sleuth Mysteries
My Rating: 4.25 of 5.0 Overall; Content 4.25; Narration 4.25.

Running a small-town police force in the mountains of New Mexico should be a smooth, carefree kind of job. Sadly, full-time Sheriff--and even fuller-time coffee guzzler--Sunshine Vicram, didn't get that memo.
All Sunshine really wants is one easy-going day. You know, the kind that starts with coffee and a donut (or three) and ends with take-out pizza and a glass of chardonnay (or seven). Turns out, that's about as easy as switching to decaf. (What kind of people do that? And who hurt them?)
Before she can say iced mocha latte, Sunny's got a bar fight gone bad, a teenage daughter hunting a serial killer and, oh yes, the still unresolved mystery of her own abduction years prior. All evidence points to a local distiller, a dangerous bad boy named Levi Ravinder, but Sun knows he's not the villain of her story. Still, perhaps beneath it all, he possesses the keys to her disappearance. At the very least, beneath it all, he possesses a serious set of abs. She's seen it. Once. Accidentally.
Between policing a town her hunky chief deputy calls four cents short of a nickel, that pesky crush she has on Levi which seems to grow exponentially every day, and an irascible raccoon that just doesn't know when to quit, Sunny's life is about to rocket to a whole new level of crazy.
Yep, definitely a good day for chardonnay.

Review:
Sunshine is still trying to settle into her new job as sheriff, but events are giving her no time to relax and settle. As usual, she is juggling death, child-rearing, and a lingering childhood crush. And don’t forget the unresolved abduction and resulting murder from her own teenaged experience.

Sunshine’s teen crush, Levi, steps in to help a friend who is attacked at a local bar. Levi may have killed one of the assailants who take off after repeatedly stabbing his friend. Before the bad guys get away, they almost kill Levi. Sun has to arrest Levi to get him to the hospital rather than taking off after the villains, but they may not be enough to stop him.

While scrutinizing the crime scene and taped footage Sun finds a shocking surprise that will add to her list of cases. And in the background is a raucous raccoon terrorizing Sun’s deputy and best friend, Quincy. Add to all of this, Sun is beginning to get more flashbacks from her abduction which has been blocked by amnesia for years.

Meanwhile Sun’s daughter, Auri is convinced that their neighbor, a woman in her 80’s is a serial killer from years past. She recruits her friends, bestie, Sybil, and Auri’s teen crush, Cruz, to help her investigate by breaking into the woman’s house. Step by step this leads Auri to more trouble and danger behind her mother’s back.

This second book in the series has lots of threads, some of which have interesting ties. There is fun banter and interaction among the characters that I have grown to appreciate from the author. I felt frustrated knowing that Auri was heading into trouble, but it is a full thread that adds to the story. I enjoyed the community coming together to pull Sun into their secrets. I also appreciated the clear chemistry and romance between Sun and Levi although the culminating sex scene is a bit more vivid than I need.

I enjoy the full package which includes mystery, danger, humor and romance. There is some introduction, but I recommend reading the first book to get a better feel for the characters and history, then continue to enjoy the mystery and fun in this book.

Audio Notes: Lorelei King is just a wonderful narrator. As soon as she begins to read I get pulled into the characters. She provides clear voices and fitting emotion that enhances the story for me. If I get a choice, I will listen to this series rather than just read it.

Source: 2021 NetGalley Audio Book. This qualifies for 2021NetGalley and 2021Audiobook goals.

Audible Book Review: Dragon Planet by Dan Wells

This is fun, easy listening, good for middle graders.

Dragon Planet
By: Dan Wells
Narrated by: Emily Woo Zeller, Steve Rimpici, full cast
Series: The Zero Chronicles, Book 2

Length: 3 hrs and 45 mins
Publisher: Audible Originals
Categories: Children's Audiobooks, Science Fiction & Fantasy
My Rating: 4.0 of 5.0 Overall; Content 4.0; Narration 4.25.

About This Audible Original
The much-anticipated sequel to Zero G and the middle grade debut by Dan Wells.
The colonists from the Pathfinder have arrived on Kaguya, a planet with low gravity but a very dense atmosphere. It’s fun to jump around, but the air makes you loopy. Even worse than that, the heavy atmosphere means that wind storms, although rare, are absolutely devastating.
Zero and Nyx help to get everything locked down before the first big storm, but they stumble onto a group of thieves who have stolen some mining equipment. Before the kids have a chance to get away and tell anyone, the storm hits and the massive winds carry them far away. Zero and Nyx are stranded on an unknown planet with no way to communicate, being chased by thieves, and with another storm bearing down on them.
And, oh yeah, this planet has dragons.
It will take more than just good luck to get back to the colony. It’s going to take science.
©2019 Dan Wells (P)2019 Audible Originals, LLC

Review:
Zero and Nyx have arrived on the planet Kaguya where the gravity is low and a dense atmosphere. They are told the colonists will be living in shelters to protect them from the unknowns of the planet and the big wind storms that ravage the surface. The young people are skeptical about the planet until they get excited seeing a dragon outside the windows. The adults are alarmed by the damage the dragon does to a digger, an important piece of equipment. They are more disturbed when they realize that another digger is missing and was apparently not loaded on the ship.

The kids decide to investigate and soon stumble onto the thieves. Before they can escape, the kids and thieves are blown away from base by the heavy winds. Zero and Nyx find themselves in a strange, beautiful but frightening world. They have to be careful what they touch and what they eat while running from the twisted thieves and racing to get back to base before another storm hits.

Okay – so it is not so realistic that two children can manage on a strange planet, but it is fun. And the author makes it particularly interesting by having the kids use their knowledge of basic science principles to solve dilemmas. I really enjoyed this aspect. I enjoyed this second book a bit more than book one. The world building was well done and I look forward to reading the next book. I recommend this for middle grade students and adults who like light, sci fi listening.

Audio Notes: Emily Woo Zeller, Steve Rimpici, and a cast of other narrators make the listening fun. There is background sound that also enhances the story. This is a fun story in audio.

Source: August 2020 Audible Plus Catalog. This qualifies for 2021TBR and 2021Audiobook goals.

Zero G By: Dan Wells, Book 1 My Rating 3.75.

Audio Book Review: Radioactive Evolution by Richard Hummel

I liked this action story with a dragon companion.
Radioactive Evolution
Written by Richard Hummel
Narrated by Armen Taylor & Anneliese Rennie

Release Date: November 15, 2018
Publisher: Hummel Books
Genre: Cyperpunk, Fantasy Gaming, Post-apocalyptic, Sci Fi
My Rating: 4.25 of 5.0 Overall; Content 4.25; Narration 4.25.

Publisher's Summary
How far would you go to change humanity's fate?
Jared Cartwright grew up in a loving, caring community, completely isolated from the horrors of the outside world. When tragedy leaves him alone and untethered, Jared sets out to explore the unknown: a world where twisted, scarred creatures roam an earth ravaged by nuclear war while the rich fled to the skies on floating utopias, escaping destruction and leaving the rest of humanity to die.
To face his new reality, Jared must learn to survive in a cold, harsh world. A twist of fate changes Jared's destiny when he discovers dragons are real. The dragon unlocks a hidden technology within his body, giving him powers he never imagined existed.
With deadly adversaries above and below, he must evolve beyond mere human limitations to defeat the powerful rulers of the cities and the rabid beasts lurking in the shadows.
Amazon number-one best seller in Post-Apocalyptic & Cyberpunk!
©2018 Richard Hummel (P)2019 Richard Hummel

Review:
Jared is a lone explorer in a post-apocalyptic world that is full of ravaged cities and twisted creatures. The elites who survived live in floating cities far above the radiated earth. Jared scavenges for supplies, including food, weapons and nanite injectors. The nanite injectors are necessary to preserve the nanotechnology within the humans which corrupts over time.

Jared descends into the tunnels of the city (once New York) following another explorer. After facing off with giant lizards, Jared finds the explorer buried in a pile of what appears to be a nest. Jared snags the pack of the other explorer and an unusual object with radiating heat. He fights his way out of the tunnels to his safe space. There he uncovers secrets about the nanotechnology and, more importantly, he inadvertently bonds with a newborn dragon! The dragon, nicknamed Scarlet, can share nanotechnology with Jared providing him the opportunity to increase his physical and mental skills so that each has super powers.

Having bonded, Jared and Scarlet have to agree to help each other’s species rather than be enemies. They set off to find other surviving humans who can be recruited to bond with dragons, or other creatures. Once they have a force the plan is to challenge one of the sky cities. The pair fight off and escape from enemies ultimately saving a strange community of water people.

This story has a definite LitRPG vibe with plenty of mutated creatures, such as killer bunnies, to battle, and nanites and powers to be absorbed and assigned to increase (‘level up’) skills. Jared is a surprising survivor considering his naivety. I enjoyed the relationship between Jared and Scarlet who communicate through telepathy and share their growth journeys. The writing kept me engaged even though it is not complex. The world building is good with lots of strange creatures. I do want to read/listen to the next book in the series. I recommend this to fans of action and fantasy gaming.

Audio Notes: Armen Taylor & Anneliese Rennie make a good narration team. I liked both voices and energy for the characters. I hope they will be the narrators for the next book which I plan to get on audio.

Source: October 2020 Chirp $2.99. This qualifies for 2021TBR and 2021Audiobook goals.

Audible Book Review: Full Share by Nathan Lowell

I enjoy this character driven series. It makes a quick listen.

Full Share
A Trader's Tale from the Golden Age of the Solar Clipper, Book 3
By: Nathan Lowell
Narrated by: Jeffrey Kafer

Length: 8 hrs and 56 mins
Release date: 08-16-16
Publisher: Podium Audio
Genre: Space Opera, Trading
My Rating: 4.5 of 5.0 Overall; Content 4.5; Narration 4.5.

Publisher's Summary
If there was ever a time to "Trust Lois..."
The Lois McKendrick runs headlong into trouble when a routine in-system transit goes bad. Ishmael and the rest of the crew must scramble to figure out what went wrong and how to fix it in order to keep the ship alive.
Learn more about the officers and crew of the Lois McKendrick as they struggle to keep their ship, and discover how Ishmael finds out how wrong he's been about what it means to be a spacer in this latest Trader's Tale.
©2013 Nathan Lowell (P)2016 Podium Publishing

Review:
Ishmael and his friends, Pip, Brill, Bev and more, are continuing their duties on the Lois McKendrick while increasing their funds with the trading co-operative they started. Ishmael has been continuing his studies too so that he can test for the next level and gain “full share” status in all four divisions of ship positions. Mr. von Ickles has suggested that Ishmael go to “the academy” to train and become an officer. The Captain encourages him too. He is a little reluctant considering he is young, alone in the world and not sure what he wants to do in his future. There is also the matter of the cost and whether he could get accepted since he has no family connection nor supporters…so he thinks.

Ishmael is soon given another reason to think about going to the academy when he learns that a replacement for his temporary position has been hired. Ishmael cannot stay on board unless there is a position for him. There are no open positions, and he isn’t about to bump some of the lower spacers even if he has that right. This is a time he must truly “trust Lois”.

Things are quiet until the ship runs through a meteor shower and systems shut down. Ishmael helps get them back online. Now they have to figure out what went wrong so it won’t happen again. Along the journey, Ishmael learns more about his shipmates and even meets members of Pip’s family. Through this event his view of his friends and a spacer’s life changes.

This is a different space opera series. Because it is a trading ship, there is no battle action, but I like the trading action. There is little danger, other than normal obstacles of space travel. But author Nathan Lowell creates an interesting story in the day to day, or more accurately the port-to-port lives of the characters. I enjoy how the officers, as well as shipmates, appreciate Ishmael’s skills and cooperative attitude.

This episode has an internal mystery that I enjoyed along with Ishmael’s growth. The mates also find a unique way to turn around a reluctant worker. I know Ishmael is young and a bit of a ‘boy toy” but he isn’t obnoxious about his conquests in work, studies, or women. I don’t take offense at his successes but like how he shares them, even with the ship, Lois.

I like this series and recommend it to sci-fi fans who appreciate business elements (trading) and likable characters. I will be purchasing and look forward to the next book, Double Share.

Audio Notes: I find Jeffrey Kafer’s narration in this series to be completely engaging. He easily conveys the nature of the characters and provides distinct voices helping to keep the story clear. I look forward to continuing to listen to the series.

Source: August 2020 Audible Credit. This qualifies for 2021TBR and 2021Audiobook goals.

Quarter Share My Rating: 4.5 of 5.0
Half Share My Rating: 4.5 of 5.0 Overall, Story 4.5, Narration 5.0

Audio Book Review: Apocalypse by Kyle West

This just didn’t grip me.
Apocalypse
Written by Kyle West
Read by Graham Halstead

Run Time 7h 32min
Release Date: April 12, 2016
Publisher: Tantor Audio
Genre: Dystopian, Post-Apocalyptic, YA/Teen
My Rating: 3.5 of 5.0 Overall; Content 3. 5; Narration 3.75.

Publisher Description
Alex Keener has lived all of his sixteen years underground in U.S. Bunker 108. When he goes on his first recon into the Wasteland, he will find out exactly why.
Outside, Alex discovers a harsh landscape twisted by the impact of the meteor Ragnarok in 2030. Besides Raiders, dust storms, and cold, a new threat is evolving-the xenovirus, which twists men and animals into deadly monsters.
When the xenovirus invades Bunker 108, Alex must fight for survival. Joined by a beautiful ex-Raider and an idealistic scientist, Alex discovers that he and his friends might be the only ones standing between the world and a second apocalypse.

Review:
Alex has turned sixteen, so now he must serve his turn going out of Bunker 108 where he has lived all his life. His first patrol foray into the Wasteland shows him a harsh landscape. He and his experienced partner, Michael, are surprised to find a man face down in the dust with stab wounds in his back. Michael recognizes the man is from Bunker 114 where the main group of scientists live. They rush to get him into the bunker for medical attention. And that is where trouble begins.

When virus spreads in Bunker 108, Alex rushes to escape with his female crush, Khloe, and her parents. After battling the infected, Alex ends up on his own struggling to survive in the Wasteland. While scavenging and thieving to get supplies, Alex is likely to die until a strange female decides to help him.

I have been reading many post-apocalyptic stories and chose this as Mr. West is a new-to-me author. There is entertainment, but unfortunately, I did not really get pulled into the story. The basic plot (a take off Wool) has potential, but I found the writing and editing lacking – too young or too shallow. I felt that much of the story reflected immature views of women and immature or downright stupid behavior. Perhaps this is appropriate for the sixteen-year-old character, but to me there were such obvious missteps by the community in a dangerous environment, starting with taking in an unknown man without using quarantine protocol.

I thought Alex’s survival chances were improbable as he was not prepared and continually loses his supplies, leaving them behind every time he faces an attack. The characters also make the mistake of leaving valuable resources to the enemies chasing them. I have the next two books in the series in audio so I expect I will try the next book sometime. Die hard apocalyptic readers may want to try this as they may have a different response.

Audio Notes: Graham Halstead delivers a fair narration although I thought there was limited voice distinction. The reading does fit the main character. I think the audio helped the story move more quickly for me.

Source: 5/23/2021 purchase at Chirp for $2.99. This qualifies for 2021Audiobook goal.

Audible Book Review: Quest for the Diamond Sword by Winter Morgan

This is a quick story that definitely brings to mind an old time computer game.

Quest for the Diamond Sword
A Minecraft Gamer's Adventure
By: Winter Morgan
Narrated by: Luke Daniels

Series: An Unofficial Gamer's Adventure, Book 1
Length: 2 hrs and 23 mins
Publisher: Audible Studios
Genre: Adventure, Children, Computer Game
My Rating: 3.75 of 5.0 Overall; Content 3.75; Narration 4.25.

Publisher's Summary
Steve lives on a wheat farm. He has everything he needs to live in the Minecraft world: a bed, a house, and food. Steve likes to spend his mornings in the NCP village and trade his wheat for emeralds, armor, books, swords, and food. One morning, he finds that Zombies have attacked the villagers. The Zombies have also turned the village blacksmith into a Zombie, leaving Steve without a place to get swords. To protect himself and the few villagers that remain, Steve goes on a quest to mine for 40 diamonds, which are the most powerful mineral in the Overworld. He wants to craft these diamonds into a diamond sword to shield him and the villagers from the Zombies.
Far from his home, with night about to set in, Steve fears for his life. Nighttime is when users are most vulnerable in Minecraft. As he looks for shelter in a temple, he meets a trio of treasure hunters, Max, Lucy, and Henry, who are trying to unearth the treasure under the temple. Steve tells them of his master plan to mine for the most powerful mineral in the Overworld - the diamond. The treasure hunters are eager to join him. Facing treacherous mining conditions, a thunderstorm, and attacks from hostile mobs, these four friends question if it's better to be a single player than a multiplayer, as they try to watch out for each other and chase Steve's dream at the same time. Will Steve find the diamonds? Will his friends help or hinder the search? Should he trust his new treasure hunter friends? And will Steve get back in time to save the villagers?
©2014 Hollan Publishing, Inc. (P)2014 Audible Inc.

Review:
Steve is a wheat farmer living comfortably in a Minecraft world. He is a calm, compassionate neighbor who helps the nearby villagers by crafting objects, such as an iron golem, to help protect them from the outside monsters, particularly the Zombies. One morning he hears screams and learns that his protective construct has fallen and Zombies have taken over the village. They have even turned his good friend, the blacksmith with whom he trades for iron and jewels, into a Zombie.

Steve sets off to the Nether world on a quest to find diamonds to craft a diamond sword to fight off the Zombies and restore his friend. While seeking shelter in a temple, Steve meets three people, Max, Lucy, and Henry. Steve is concerned they might be Griefers (thieves), but they convince him they are treasure hunters. The four decide to team together to help face the dangers and search for the diamonds. Will they be successful in the quest, and can Steve save his village?

I had to chuckle shortly into this audio when I realized it is truly an audio version of the Minecraft computer games. The cubist characters use their cubist resources to mine jewels and “craft” tools and portals while on a quest to save others. The action and story are pretty simplistic. I do like the simplistic moral lessons that are shared through the interactions with other characters. I don’t plan to rush on to listen to books 2-6 in the series, all similarly short and narrated by Luke Daniels which is a plus. This is apparently set out to be chapter books for young readers and I think the audio could be a good listen for families on short trips or for Minecraft fans.

Audio Notes: Luke Daniels is a good narrator whose narration on this helped me push through to the end. Luke’s characters voices and energy definitely added to the story for me.

Source: 2020 Free Audible Plus Catalog. This qualifies for 2021TBR, 2021Audiobook, and 2021Alphabet Audio goals.

Audible Book Review: After It Happened, Publisher's Pack 2, by Devon C. Ford

This is a well-paced post apocalyptic series full of interesting characters.
After It Happened
Publisher's Pack 2
By: Devon C. Ford
Narrated by: R.C. Bray

Series: After It Happened, Book 3-4
Length: 12 hrs and 11 mins
Release date: 10-24-17
Publisher: Podium Audio
Genre: Adventure, Post Apocalyptic
My Rating: 4.5 of 5.0 Overall; Content 4.5; Narration 4.5.

Publisher's Summary
This publisher's pack contains Society (book three) and Hope (book four) of the After It Happened series.
Society, book three:
Set in the UK in the immediate aftermath of a mysterious illness which swept the country and left millions dead, the series follows the trials facing a reluctant hero, Dan, and the group he forms around him. They must battle the elements, find sufficient supplies and equipment to survive, and protect themselves against the most destructive force on the planet: other people.
The survivors have prospered, but their home is an enticing prospect for others to take. Besieged, they must respond with a savagery to dissuade further attempts.
Is this the end of society?
Hope, book four:
In the aftermath of the shocking revelations about the propagation of the human race, Dan latches on to a desperate chance to change the future which many have accepted. The group splits and Dan leads his closest allies on an uncertain journey to find a solution. They find themselves battling against the elements, against new foes, and above all, against time.
They must succeed.
They must have hope.
©2017 Devon C. Ford (P)2017 Podium Publishing

Review:
Dan is the ‘military’ leader of his community of 70+ or so plague survivors who are thriving at a former prison facility. Each member finds or is assigned a task where he or she can contribute. There are those working as farmers and in animal husbandry. Some are mechanics helping to maintain and improve equipment. Others are cooks, housekeepers, and medical staff. The whole compound is protected by the “Rangers” under Dan’s guidance. He also heads the teams of scavengers who go out to gather more supplies.

The community has been successful by working together, keeping their location quiet, and seeking other wanderers while being cautious who they allow to become part of the ‘family’. When outsiders threaten their home, Dan is quick to gather his protégé, 13-year-old Leah, and other Rangers to eliminate the threats.

Dan, his dog Ash, Lexi, and Leah rescue a woman who was being followed on the highway. Emma is frightened but finally reveals that she is a scientist researching the scientific beginnings of the plague. She is trying to find a common connection for those who have survived. Steve, a former pilot, agrees to take Emma north to a specialized Scotland research lab. Along the way they are brought into a military compound and assigned an “escort”, Mitch. Through various events, Steve creates an enemy and Mitch  joins him returning 'home'.

Dan and Emma realize the common connection (which is a surprise) of survivors. Then they have a particular, special, reason to travel to Africa seeking a remedy. A significant group of the community decide to travel with Dan, seeking 'hope', but leaving the home community resentful and vulnerable.

I liked how this book picked up right where book 2 ended. There is not a lot of back story but there is deeper development of several of the characters, Dan being the most significant. I enjoyed being caught up in the dangers and trauma of the characters who end up divided into two groups. I recommend reading the series from the beginning and I look forward to the next bundle.

Audio Notes: R.C. Bray does a clear, emotionally fitting narration of these two stories. His presentation helps pull me into story. I will continue to listen to the series.

Source: May 2020 Audible Credit. This qualifies for 2021TBR and 2021Audiobook goals.

Audible Book Review: Sovereign by Jeff Hirsch

It's not gripping but it is an interesting listen, suitable for younger readers.

Sovereign
By Jeff Hirsch
Narrated by: Jesse Einstein

Length: 6 hrs and 3 mins
Release date: 01-31-19
Publisher: Audible Originals
Categories: Adventure, Children's Audiobooks, Science Fiction & Fantasy, Space
My Rating: 3.75 of 5.0 Overall; Content 3.75; Narration 4.0.

Jeff Hirsch, the mastermind behind such dark YA dystopias as The Eleventh Plague and The Darkest Hour, goes interstellar with Sovereign, a middle grade Audible Original voiced by Jesse Einstein, who listeners have called "first-rate."

Micah Cole has been in deep space for four years now. While his parents chase their obsession with finding intelligent life deeper and deeper into the universe, Micah can’t help but dream of the friends he’s left behind and counts the days until the family returns to Earth. When a devastating meteor shower nearly destroys the Coles’s ship, Micah is separated from his family and stranded alone on Sovereign—a vast planet of raging rivers and towering forests. If Micah ever wants to see his family or his home again, he’ll have to learn how to survive on this hostile alien world. Armed with only his wits and determination, he’ll have to battle the elements, his own deepest fears, and a strange presence that might just hold the key to his parents’ obsession—and be his ticket back home.
©2019 Jeff Hirsch (P)2019 Audible Originals, LLC.

Review:
Micah is a young teen who has been ‘dragged’ off to space exploration with his parents. He misses his friends from middle school and often dreams of getting back to them. His parents are set on their obsession of finding intelligent life beyond earth. They have found at least one unique species but continue to push on to the next planet.

A meteor storm forces Micah’s parents to send him off in a lifeboat to a nearby planet that they probed and found suitable for life. He is stranded on Sovereign hoping his parents will be able to make quick repairs and return for him. In the first few days, Micah’s lifeboat is caught in a flash flood while he is outside. Now he has to struggle for shelter and supplies on an alien world with unknown elements. Micah knows he can send a distress call if he can reach the probe his parents sent before the storm. But he will have to travel over rivers and forests to get to the high mountain. As the days pass, he survives hostile attacks and is imagines his best friend from childhood is exhorting him to get up and keep going. Is Micah’s friend a memory or a strange presence helping him to survive?

I had to remember that Micah was just an impulsive teen when he made so many unwise choices that get him into trouble. Fortunately, luck is with him and then an unexpected friend. I appreciated the creative world building of the planet and creatures – friendly and dangerous. There is also a bit of a nice message as the story moves toward its conclusion. I found this to be entertaining for a quick read/listen. I recommend it for younger readers or those who might want to spend six or so hours that don’t require intense attention.

Audio Notes: Jesse Einstein does a good job with the narration. He captures the youth and immaturity of Micah as well as the energy of the story. For me, the narration helped the story move along.

Source: 2/10/19 Free Audible Original. This qualifies for 2021TBR and 2021Audiobook goals.

Audio Book Review: Jesus > Religion by Jefferson Bethke

This supports my view of Christ as primary, the church as secondary and religion not the important thing. The important thing is relationship - Love God, love people.
Jesus & Religion
by Jefferson Bethke

Run Time 4h 12min
Release Date: October 13, 2013
Publisher: Thomas Nelson
Genre: Christian, Inspiration, Self-Growth
My Rating: 5.0 of 5.0 Overall; Content 5.0; Narration 4.75.

Publisher Description
Abandon dead, dry, rule-keeping and embrace the promise of being truly known and deeply loved.
Jefferson Bethke burst into the cultural conversation in 2012 with a passionate, provocative poem titled “Why I Hate Religion, But Love Jesus.” The four-minute video of Bethke’s spoken-word performance literally became an overnight sensation, with seven million YouTube views in its first forty-eight hours (and 24+ million within a year). The message hit like a blizzard on social-media sites and in forwarded e-mails, triggering an avalanche.
In Jesus &; Religion, Bethke unpacks the stark contrasts that he drew in the poem-contrasts between teeth gritting and grace, law and love, performance and peace, despair and hope. With refreshing candor, he delves into the motivation behind his message, beginning with the unvarnished tale of his own plunge from the pinnacle of a works-based, fake-smile existence that sapped his strength and led him down a path of destructive behavior.
Bethke is quick to acknowledge that he’s not a pastor or theologian, but simply a regular, twenty-something, soul-starved searcher who cried out for a life greater than the one for which he had settled. Along his journey, Bethke discovered the real Jesus, who beckoned him beyond the props of false religion.

Review:
Author Bethke shares from his experiences growing up with religion and church but still struggling with sin and destructive behaviors. Like many people, he often viewed himself in comparison to others: he wasn’t a saint, but he was better than a murderer. He finally hit the “eureka” moment when he realized that no one is good enough to deserve grace. It doesn’t matter how religious one might be, we are unable to control our sinful natures. As Christ points out in the New Testament (Matthew 5:28) – if you think a sin in your mind (lusting after someone, coveting possessions), even if you don’t act on the thought, you have sinned in your heart. If we get what we deserve, no one would get grace.

Bethke came to realize that we need to proclaim Christianity as what Jesus has done for us… not what we do. When we pursue Jesus, who can be found in the scriptures, we will find that: “The Jesus of the scriptures is more radical and subversive than we realize.” At some point each person has to decide: either Jesus is who he says he is – God – or he is a liar. As Bethke notes: “Be careful when you pursue truth because you might just find Him [Jesus].”

I liked all of this journey that Bethke shared but a point I particularly like is in Chapter 9, “Religion points to a dim future, Jesus points to a bright future.” Often we think that only Christian things matter, not secular things. But reference Romans 8, Bethke makes the good point that all creation groans from sin. God created everything and cares about the earth, art and all jobs, even mundane ones. There is no true divide between secular and Christian. All of our world is God-created. We can still distinguish good from evil and we need to know the difference between praising God through the good and defaming him by the bad.

Bethke explains that there is a purpose for the church – to be a hospital for the sick; to train members to reach out to others with the message of Hope. But religion, as a group of routines and rules, often detracts from the relationship with God and people.

I highly recommend this to everyone. Christ followers will appreciate the truths of the distinction while seekers, and even atheists, may see what really matters beyond the hypocrisy of “religious” people.

Audio Notes: Jefferson Bethke narrates his own work and does a good job. His voice contains concern and energy that helped keep me engaged. I appreciated this work in audio.

Source: 05/30/2020 Chirp $3.99. This qualifies for 2021TBR, 2021Audiobook, and 2021Alphabet Audio goals.

Audible Book Review: A History of the Future: A World Made by Hand Novel, Book 3 James Howard Kunstler

This is a day to day survival and character driven dystopia.

A History of the Future: A World Made by Hand Novel, Book 3
By: James Howard Kunstler
Narrated by: Jim Meskimen

Series: World Made By Hand, Book 3
Length: 11 hrs and 49 mins
Release date: 08-05-14
Publisher: Blackstone Audio, Inc.
Genre: Dystopian, Metaphysical Fiction, Post Apocalyptic
My Rating: 4.0 of 5.0 Overall; Story 4.0; Narration 4.25.

Publisher's Summary
A History of the Future is the third thrilling novel in Kunstler's World Made by Hand series, an exploration of family and morality as played out in the small town of Union Grove.
Following the catastrophes of the 21st century - the pandemics, the environmental disaster, the end of oil, the ensuing chaos - people are doing whatever they can to get by and pursuing a simpler and sometimes happier existence. In little Union Grove in upstate New York, the townspeople are preparing for Christmas. Without the consumerist shopping frenzy that dogged the holidays of the previous age, the season has become a time to focus on family and loved ones. It is a stormy Christmas Eve when Robert Earle's son Daniel arrives back from his two years of sojourning throughout what is left of the United States. He collapses from exhaustion and illness, but as he recovers, he tells the story of the break-up of the nation into three uneasy independent regions and his journey into the dark heart of the new Foxfire Republic centered in Tennessee and led by the female evangelical despot Loving Morrow. In the background, Union Grove has been shocked by the Christmas Eve double murder by a young mother of her husband and infant son. Town magistrate Stephen Bullock is in a hanging mood.
A History of the Future is attention-grabbing and provocative but also lyrical, tender, and comic - a vision of a future of America that is becoming more and more convincing, and perhaps even desirable, with each passing day.
©2014 James Kunstler (P)2014 Blackstone Audio

Review:
This is the third book in the series. It tells the day to day struggles of various members of the community of Union Grove in upstate New York. The people are preparing for Christmas although it may be bleak. There will be choirs to remind the townspeople of the true meaning of Christmas even if there won’t be many gifts.

The story focuses on the usual primary characters which include key townspeople, like the mayor, Robert Earle, the head pastor of the New Faith Covenant Brotherhood Church of Jesus, Brother Jobe, and the community wealth baron, Stephen Bullock. There are some new characters as well -- a family involved in murder, and the most important, Robert’s wandering son, Daniel. Daniel and another young man left two years before to find out what happened to the rest of the United States.

Daniel’s story of his travels, betrayals and adventures are shared in several chapters as the other events continue in town. Daniel is able to fill in details of other regions of the states, including a purported “federal’ group in the Midwest, and two battling factions in the South. Daniel’s involvements seem a bit far-fetched but the events allows the author to offer different society scenarios and adds interest to the more mundane nature of the story.

The author has the ability to build entertainment around everyday event and observances. This series isn’t particularly exciting like many of the post-apocalyptic, dystopian stories I read, but it has its own engaging appeal. There continues to be some mild sexual scenes, pleasant and unpleasant. There are also moments of societal tensions as the community leaders tussle on how they will address social issues such as abuse, mental illness and murder.

I hope to listen to book 4 soon as it has the word “Spring” for my season challenge. I also want to see how the characters go forward and how Mr. Kunstler wraps up the community. I recommend this to fans of survival dystopia.

Audio Notes: Jim Meskimen’s narration adds to the story. He provides unique voices that helps the reader/listener feel like they are in the community. I am glad that I have this series from Audible.

Source: 12/21/2020 Audible Plus Catalog. This qualifies for 2021TBR and 2021Audiobook goals.

World Made By Hand: A World Made by Hand Novel, Book 1 by James Howard Kunstler
The Witch of Hebron: A World Made by Hand Novel, Book 2 by James Howard Kunstler

Audio Book Review: You Dropped a Blonde On Me by Dakota Cassidy

This is a fun, easy romance.

You Dropped a Blonde On Me
Written By: Dakota Cassidy
Narrated By: Hollie Jackson

Publisher: Tantor Media
Date: June 2020
Duration: 11 hours 53 minutes
Genre: Contemporary, Romantic Comedy
My Rating: 4.0 of 5.0 Overall; Story 4.0; Narration 4.25.

Publisher's Summary
She was the perfect party-planning, haute-to-the max trophy wife. Now Maxine Cambridge is broke, unemployable, and living with her mother and teenage son in a retirement village, with her self-esteem kicked to the curb.
Until her geeky former classmate Campbell Barker returns, all grown-up and off-the-scale smokin' hot. Campbell refuses to believe Max isn't that smart, funny girl he's crushed on since high school. The more Max tries to show him he's wrong, the more she rediscovers her long-retired mojo. Now, she's ready to throw down some payback on her ex-life and fight for what she deserves....
Contains mature themes.
©2020 Dakota Cassidy (P)2020 Tantor

Review:
Maxine married an older, wealthy man, at age twenty and now, twenty years later, her cheating husband is ready for another age twenty (or younger)-year old. And the arrogant “B” is giving her nothing, not even the clothes, or shoes in her closet! He is even depriving their teenaged son, Connor.

Max and Connor are living in a retirement village with Max’s mother while Max tries to get a job. Max is begging for a job at a local fast food shop when a hunky man walks in and tries to rescue her. The man turns out to be a once geeky, former classmate, Campbell. Campbell tries continually to encourage Max who is totally down on herself.

Max is actually a fun character especially once she gets beyond her lack of confidence. It is sad to see what can happen when a woman makes herself a servient mat to her husband. But Max comes out of her shell when she starts working with the elderly people in the village and she finally confronts her soon to be ex when she fights for Connor. I loved Campbell’s attitude and he deserves a lot of credit for his patience. It is fun to watch the progression and root for Max and Campbell to get together.

The dialog, including Max’s internal dialog, includes some funny phrases. There are a couple of strong sexual scenes and a little bit of language. I have some additional books by Ms. Cassidy which I will have to try soon. I recommend this to romance fans who enjoy humor and more mature characters.

Audio Notes: Hollie Jackson does a really good job on the narration. She provides good voices and energy for Max and the other characters. I enjoyed the audio and would like to hear more of Jackson’s narration.

Source: 8/2020 Two for One Credit Deal at Audiobooks.com This qualifies for 2021TBR, 2021Audiobook and 2021Alphabet Audio goals.

Audible Book Review: Spring Clean by Dina Gregory

I enjoyed this fun, quick listen.
Spring Clean
By: Dina Gregory
Narrated by: Nneka Okoye

Length: 4 mins
Release date: 05-22-20
Publisher: Audible Studios
Genre: Fantasy, Light Humor, Short Story
My Rating: 4.25 of 5.0 Overall; Story 4.25; Narration 4.25.

Publisher's Summary
What is it like to be spring cleaned? Find out in this tragicomic tale about a self-absorbed Hair Spider, an anxious Fluff Ball, and a friendly Dust Bunny. The perilous journey of these three friends is sure to suck you in.
©2020 Audible Ltd (P)2020 Audible Ltd

Review:
Have you ever wondered what it would be like to be a clump of hair brushed to the floor? A hairy pet fluff ball? Or a dust bunny under the bed? They might frolic together for a time, but then what?

This is a little surprise to begin though the ending is more predictable. It is only 4 minutes, and it is free on Audible Plus. I’m glad I listened. It it is cute and fun and good for adults and children. I plan to add more of Gregory's short gems to my library.

Audio Notes: Nneka Okoye does a spot on narration. She captures the fun and the irony. Her narration added to the experience.

I found this at Audible Plus Catalog - seen at Inside of a Dog. This qualifies for 2021TBR, 2021Audiobook goals, and a “Spring” title.

Audio Book Review: An Enemy of the People by Henrik Ibsen

I was impressed by this story that sets environment concerns against financial gain.

An Enemy of the People
by Henrik Ibsen
Adapted by Rebecca Lenkiewicz, performed by Richard Kind, Rosalind Ayres, Gregory Harrison, Josh Stamberg, and a full cast

Length: 1 hr and 54 mins
Performance
Release date: 11-20-18
Publisher: L.A. Theatre Works
Genre: Classic, Drama, Poetry & Drama, Political
My Rating: 4.25 of 5.0 Overall; Story 4.25; Narration 4.25.

L.A. Theatre Works' "radio theater" production of Ibsen's classic play about environmental contamination, science, dissent, and hypocrisy offers a well-rounded audio theater experience. Very little in Ibsen's original work requires theatrical action, and, when it does, the LATW cast--including Richard Kind, Rosalind Ayres, Gregory Harrison, and Josh Stamberg--and the production team do an excellent job of conveying it through sound. Like most dramatic works, the two-hour play is best enjoyed in one or two sittings. Ibsen's themes remain relevant, almost prescient, nearly a century and a half after he wrote this play. F.C. © AudioFile 2014, Portland, Maine [Published: AUGUST 2014]

Review:
Dr. Stockmann learns that the baths in his coastal Norway town are infected with a deadly disease. He is concerned for the people and visitors and wants the town to repair or close the baths. The Mayor, who is Dr. Stockmann's brother, doesn’e want to spend the large costs involved nor close the baths because of the financial losses it would cause the town.

The local newspaper is set to publish the contamination report until the Mayor steps in and convinces the editor that the financial welfare of the town’s people is more important than the risk of the disease. When the doctor tries to have an open town meeting, once again the Mayor intervenes, maligns his brother, and declares him to be an enemy of the people! Will Dr. Stockmann be run out of town or will he stay and fight to save his home and the people?

Doesn’t this sound like it could be set in society today? This was written in 1882 and addresses social conflicts between environment, health and financial gain. It also points out the power and hypocrisy of the political leaders and press (still evident today). I found it fascinating and recommend it as a true political classic.

Audio Notes: The L.A. Theatre Works presentation is wonderfully done, bringing the drama to life. It makes for an entertaining listen.

Source: SYNC June 2019. This qualifies for 2021TBR and 2021Audiobook goals.