Audio Book Review: Gossip and Gorgons, Book 3 of Manners and Monsters Collection by Tilly Wallace

I totally enjoy these characters and the mysteries they unravel. #Fraterfest #7
Gossip and Gorgons, Book 3 of Manners and Monsters Collection: A Regency paranormal mystery series
by Tilly Wallace
Narrated By: Marian Hussey

Book 3 Listening length: 7 hours, 38 minutes
Total Collection Duration: 23 hours 46 minutes
Series: Manners and Monsters, Book 1-3
Release date: 03-03-21
Publisher: Tilly Wallace
Genres: Fantasy, Historical Fiction, Mystery, Paranormal
My Rating: 4.75 of 5.0 Overall; Story 4.75; Narration 4.75.

One look could turn you to stone...
The newly married Lord and Lady Wycliff are cordially invited to a house party--to be mocked and ridiculed as entertainment. Wycliff insists on attending to discuss business with the host, while Hannah longs to hide in the library with its rare volumes on the Fae.
Bound to Wycliff even beyond death, Hannah wonders how she will survive the week--when a guest unexpectedly expires. A notorious cad is discovered turned into a statue in the garden. The dead lord had many enemies, including Lord Wycliff.
Hannah's accord with her husband is tested when a trail of footprints leads to their window. What secret is Wycliff hiding and does he know more about the magical death than he admits? Someone among the house guests has murder on their mind and the newlyweds need to determine who, before anyone else is immortalised as stone...

Review:
Hannah is now married to the dark and dangerous Lord Wycliff. Both of them are on the fringe of society but Hannah agrees to accompany her husband to a week-long country party because Wycliff is trying to get the host (or father of the hostess to be precise) to invest in his land improvements.

Along the way to the event, Hannah is mocked by three unpleasant young men who are driven off by Lord Wycliff. She isn’t too pleased to see the three cads arrive as guests at the event. The leader of the trio is found turned to a statute in the garden. As Wycliff begins to investigate the clearly magical death, Hannah does her own investigations with the help of her mother by magical distance contact. Hannah discovers some strange foot prints outside the bedroom where she and her new husband were placed. Now she has new secrets to ferret out about her own husband as well as the murder.

I really enjoy Hannah and Wycliff with their unique paranormal elements and their slowly growing awareness and affection for each other. There is good humor mixed with the mystery and I enjoy the magical elements. I am pulled into the story and remain engaged. I plan to get the next collection soon. I recommend this to fans of Regency romance filled with magic and mystery.

Audio Notes: Marian Hussey does a lovely job with the narration. The voices are distinct and the energy and pacing add to my enjoyment of the story.

Source: 11/1/2020 Audiobooks.com Credit Purchase. This qualifies for 2023TBR, 2023Audiobook and #Fraterfest goals.

Audio Book Review: A Death at Eastwick by L.C. Warman

I enjoyed the twists in this whodunit mystery.

A Death at Eastwick
Written by L.C. Warman
Narrated by Brooke Myers

Run time: 5 hours and 4 minutes
Release Date: October 23, 2019
Publisher: Greenleaf & Plympton
Genre: Mystery, Whodunit, Young Adult
My Rating: 3.5 of 5.0 Overall; Story 3.5; Narration 3.5.

When John Eastwick, Jr.’s father dies, he finds out about one family secret that will change his life forever. But a murder the night of the memorial service raises the question—what else was his beloved father hiding?
***
21-year-old John Eastwick, Jr., has lived a charmed and cozy life. The sole heir of the Eastwick family fortune, John is on the cusp of graduating from the renowned Montvale University out east before returning home to run his family business. But in late fall of his final year, John’s father dies of heart failure. Days later, his father is named as one of the disgraced moguls who bribed John’s way into his prestigious college.
Kicked out of school, John returns home to his distraught mother at their lakeside mansion to bury his father. There, John’s world continues to crumble beneath his feet: the will that the family lawyer reads bears no resemblance to the last version that the late John Eastwick, Sr. created. In fact, John Eastwick, Sr. has divided his estate not only between his son and wife, but the family chef, their loyal lawyer, his young secretary, and his estranged brother.
John wonders, is his father trying to atone for past mistakes--and what other secrets might he be keeping?
But that night, after the reading of the will, one among the group is murdered. And John Eastwick, Jr., must not only piece together who the threat is, but also face what else his beloved father might have been hiding.

Review:
John is distressed when his father dies of heart failure, but John becomes more alarmed a few days later as a scandal unfolds claiming his father bribed John’s way into his prestigious college. John leaves his senior year to return home and deal with the gathering of his uncle, aunt and their son, and close employees who have come for the reading of the Will. The bequests are a total surprise with substantial gifts to others in addition to the widow and John Jr.

The morning after the Will is read, one of the guests is found dead. Then it is discovered that a million-dollar painting is missing. John sets out to uncover the murderer and the thieve in the group while also trying to determine other hidden secrets his father was hiding.

There are several well developed, unpleasant suspects, particularly the deceased’s estranged brother with his pretentious wife and spoiled, lazy son. Several of the employees are also surprise beneficiaries and their actions are suspect too.

Although I did enjoy the twists and turns in the plot, the story is a bit bland and at times repetitive. I wanted the scenes to move on to uncover the villain. This is a mystery for fans of the “Whodunit” genre.

Audio Notes: Brooke Myers does a fair job with the narration. The voices are distinct although the story seems “read” more than presented with energy. The audio helped move the book along for me.

Source: 3/21/2020 Chirp deal $.99. This qualifies for 2023TBR and 2023Audiobook goals.

Three Short Reviews for Ghostly #Fraterfest Reads: The Tutor by Rod A. Galino; A Wild Ghost Chase By E.J. Copperman; The Ghost Hunter Next Door by Danielle Garrett

This is a quick, engaging story and I would be willing to read more in the series.
#Fraterfest #4.
The Tutor: A Ghost Story
By Rod A. Galindo

ASIN ‏ : ‎ B01IJASLSU
Publisher ‏ : ‎ Wordwraith Books LLC; 1st edition (July 14, 2016)
Genre: Children’s Scary Stories, Ghosts
Source: February 2019 free Kindle.
My Rating: 4.25 of 5.0.

"The Tutor" is Chapter One of "Claire", WINNER of the 2019 Next Generation Indie Book Paranormal category.
Young Max hates Fourth Grade math. His teenage friend Claire is an ace with numbers, and is always eager to help him with his homework. Max adores her, and loves when she visits him in the old house on Hollow Street.
Claire can also weave a ghost story like no one else. But her favorite tale always sends chills down his spine, and hits a little too close to home...

Comments:
This free Kindle story introduces Claire who isn’t quite the tutor you might expect. The short story is complete with its own little twist.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

I enjoy this ghostly cozy mystery series.
#Fraterfest #5.
A Wild Ghost Chase
By: E.J. Copperman
Narrated by: James Patrick Cronin

Series: Haunted Guesthouse, Book 3.5
Length: 2 hrs and 34 mins
Release date: 07-15-13
Publisher: Audible Studios
Genre: Cozy Mystery, Ghosts, Paranormal
Source: 11/5/2022 Audible Plus.
My Rating: 4.25 of 5.0 Overall; Story 4.25; Narration 4.25.

Publisher's summary
Phantom PI Paul Harrison from the national best-selling Haunted Guesthouse mysteries returns with a tale of his own in a house full of ghosts, secrets, and spectacular oceanside views.…
Three years ago in a large Victorian house on the Jersey Shore in the town of Harbor Haven, fledgling private investigator Paul and his client, Maxie Malone, were murdered. Since then, recent divorcée and reluctant ghost whisperer Alison Kerby and her 10-year-old daughter, Melissa, have moved in and converted the place to a guesthouse, where Maxie and Paul are now checked in for an eternity and ready to solve any case that comes their way - or at least spook the guests (who love it). Alison’s got a lot on her plate at the moment, however, so when Paul discovers the 300-year-old ghost of a small boy in the house, he decides not to involve her in the case. The boy, named Eagle of the Sun, says he’s searching for his missing mother. Paul’s happy to help Eagle of the Sun find her, though something about the boy’s story doesn’t add up. But why would a lost little ghost lie?
Includes a preview of the next Haunted Guesthouse Mystery, Chance of a Ghost, available February 2013.
©2012 Jeffrey Cohen (P)2013 Audible, Inc.

Comments:
While Alison struggles to deal with the living guests in the house, her ghostly occupants, Paul and Maxie, try to help a small ghost boy who claims to be a 300 year old Native American looking for his mother. Unfortunately, the boy’s story doesn’t match history and Paul, Maxie, and Melissa end up having to dig a little deeper to resolve the mystery.
The narration by James Patrick Cronin is clear and enhanced my enjoyment of the story.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

I enjoyed this ghostly cozy too. I will listen to more in the series.
#Fraterfest #6.
The Ghost Hunter Next Door
Beechwood Harbor Ghost Mysteries, Book 1
By: Danielle Garrett
Narrated by: Amanda Ronconi

Length: 6 hrs and 2 mins
Release date: 03-26-19
Publisher: Tantor Audio
Genre: Cozy Mystery, Ghosts, Supernatural
Source: 11/27/2022 Audible sale $2.99.
My Rating: 4.25 of 5.0 Overall; Story 4.25; Narration 4.25.

Publisher's summary
The first rule of being a ghost whisperer: Don't tell anyone. Seriously. Don't.
Sure, it might sound harmless. A fun party trick, even. I assure you, it's not. How do I know? Well, let's just say that I've had a lot of experience with this sort of thing, and nine times out of 10, it turns into an all-consuming disaster.
Being plagued by needy ghosts 24-7 is one thing; being harassed by a horde of curious - or worse, grieving - flesh-and-blood people is an entirely different circus. I mean really, who wants to hold an impromptu seance in the middle of the cereal aisle? Not me, and the manager of the grocery store probably isn't too crazy about the idea, either.
So, that's it. If you're a ghost whisperer, just keep your mouth shut and act normal. Ghosts? What ghosts?
Now, if only I would start listening to my own advice....
©2017 Danielle Garrett (P)2019 Tantor

Comments
Scarlet wasn’t thrilled with her gift of seeing and hearing ghosts. But she has to give them a chance or she gets no rest at all. This time, Scarlet is called upon to help deal with an angry ghost who doesn’t want people filming or remodeling her old home. Can Scarlet figure out why Rose is so angry and help the situation before someone really gets hurt?

The character interaction is cute, and the story is well laid out. Amanda Ronconi does a good job with the narration, fitting all of the characters. I would enjoy listening to more books in the series.

Two Audible Book Reviews for #Fraterfest: Material Witness: A Joe Ledger Bonus Story and Deep, Dark: An Exclusive Short Story by Jonathan Maberry

I enjoyed the military and supernatural elements in this short story.
#Fraterfest #1.
Material Witness: A Joe Ledger Bonus Story
By: Jonathan Maberry
Narrated by: Ray Porter

Series: Joe Ledger, Book 1.2
Length: 1 hr and 16 mins
Release date: 07-14-11
Publisher: Blackstone Audio, Inc.
Genre: Military, Paranormal, Suspense
My Rating: 4.5 of 5.0 Overall; Story 4.5; Narration 4.5.

Publisher's summary
Here is another highly entertaining short story featuring Jonathan Maberry’s compelling hero, Joe Ledger.
This short thriller takes Joe Ledger into the mysterious, troubled town of Pine Deep, Pennsylvania, the setting for Maberry’s chilling Pine Deep Trilogy. In Pine Deep, nothing is what it seems.
©2011 Jonathan Maberry (P)2011 Blackstone Audio, Inc.

Review:
Joe and his team are trying to retrieve a material witness who is believed to have created the evil bioweapon that the US government is trying to keep under control. Joe meets the unusual, Native American Chief of Police and his deputy who offer to assist, but Joe rejects their help saying he and his team will handle it. When they get to the house where the witness is supposed to be, they realize they have walked into a trap with more than one enemy on the way in. Maybe they should have accepted help.

I enjoyed the action, the mystical elements, and the character interactions. I want to listen to more of this series. I recommend this to fans of the paranormal, military action genre.

Audio Notes: Ray Porter makes it easy to listen to this series. He does a superb job of narration as always.

Source: December 2021 Free from Audible Plus Catalog. This qualifies for 2023TBR and 2023Audiobook goals.

This next Joe Ledger ‘adventure’ deals with genetic mutations and is another strong short story.
#Fraterfest #2.

Deep, Dark: An Exclusive Short Story
By: Jonathan Maberry
Narrated by: Ray Porter

Series: Joe Ledger, Book 1.3
Length: 50 mins
Release date: 07-14-11
Publisher: Blackstone Audio, Inc.
Genre: Military, Paranormal, Suspense
My Rating: 4.5 of 5.0 Overall; Story 4.5; Narration 4.5.

Publisher's summary
This chilling short story is the prequel to The Dragon Factory, the second installment in Maberry’s action-packed Joe Ledger novels.
Before Baltimore cop Joe Ledger goes up against two competing groups of geneticists looking to continue the master-race program in The Dragon Factory, he must battle another foe using human test subjects for his sinister plans.
©2009 Jonathan Maberry (P)2011 Blackstone Audio, Inc.

Review:
This story finds Joe and team entering a secret bunker facility which is supposed to be a secure testing lab. What they discover there is gruesome karma as the mutations the doctors have created turn on the staff. Do the mutants still have enough sentience to distinguish foe from friend? Can Joe and friends escape the carnage before an automatic shut down sets off a destruction code?

[Audio Notes: same as above.]

Source: December 2021 Free from Audible Plus Catalog. This qualifies for 2023TBR and 2023Audiobook goals.

Audible Book Review: Two Necromancers, a Bureaucrat, and an Army of Golems: An Unconventional Heroes Publisher's Pack by L.G. Estrella

This is fun listening although I'm not sure I wouldn't have enjoyed it more split up.

Two Necromancers, a Bureaucrat, and an Army of Golems: An Unconventional Heroes Publisher's Pack
By: L. G. Estrella
Narrated by: Fred Berman

Series: Unconventional Heroes, Book 1-2
Length: 13 hrs and 5 mins
Release date: 05-26-20
Publisher: Podium Audio
Genre: Humorous Fantasy
My Rating: 4.5 of 5.0 Overall; Story 4.5; Narration 4.5.

Publisher's summary
Contains Books 1 and 2 of the Unconventional Heroes series.
Two Necromancers, a Bureaucrat, and an Elf, book 1:
Two necromancers, a bureaucrat, and an elf - it sounds like the start of a bad joke, only the joke is on Timmy.
Timothy Walter Bolton - better known as Timmy - has spent most of his life as a necromancer. When he isn't terrorising his enemies, he's plotting inside his castle, which is built on top of lightless chasms filled with nameless horrors and beings of a generally malevolent and megalomaniacal nature. But after one of his latest creations, a zombie hydra-dragon-bear, tries to eat him, he decides that maybe it's time to find a new, less dangerous, career.
But that's easier said than done. He's a wanted criminal with no shortage of powerful (and crazy) enemies, and he has a bone or two to pick with the Everton Council of Mages.
It's a good thing that he's got some help: an obnoxious 10-year-old apprentice who thinks that pink glasses are appropriate for a budding necromancer and a bumbling bureaucrat who may or may not make it through their first real fight without puking his guts up. Wonderful.

Two Necromancers, an Army of Golems, and a Demon Lord, book 2:
Two necromancers, an army of golems, and a demon lord - it sounds like a recipe for trouble, and for Timmy, it definitely is.
To earn his pardon and avoid horrible torture and/or gruesome execution, Timmy has to complete every mission the Council throws his way, most of which seem to involve extremely scary things trying to kill him. At least he’s got help - sort of. His help consists of an apprentice with designs on his castle (and her plans may or may not involve overthrowing him), a bureaucrat whose two greatest skills are fainting in the face of trouble and using people (usually Timmy) as human shields, and an elf with the world's worst case of pyromania and enough magic to level a mountain.
Somehow, Timmy's got to get this bunch of unconventional heroes to work together. Trouble is coming, and it's trouble of the kind that only a necromancer like Timmy could possibly find himself in the middle of.
©2014 L. G. Estrella (P)2020 Podium Audio

Review:
Two Necromancers, a Bureaucrat, and an Elf, book 1:
Timmy is supposed to be a harsh Necromancer, but he is really sort of a good guy. Not that he doesn’t battle, terrorize, and kill his enemies…but they are really the bad guys. And he does live in a cursed castle with an army of created servants and a rat colony, not to mention the indescribable monsters living under the castle. And as a wizard who has to dig a lot in the dirt it is a bit alarming at first when others learn that Timmy’s weapon of choice is a magical shovel rather than a good sword. As a successful Necromancer he has learned to think on his feet and to create living - or animated dead – creatures who help him. He loves blending new creations although not all of them work out.

Timmy has taken on a 10-year-old apprentice, Katie, who was abandoned by her parents and community when she brought her dead puppy back to life. Eventually Katie will learn all that Timmy can teach her and then she will kill him and take over the castle. But that is still a long time away.

Timmy has been ousted from the wizardly community but there is a way he can have his past crimes pardoned and get back in good standing. He just has to meet certain conditions and succeed in some assigned quests as directed by the Council of Mages. What’s a Necromancer to do when his tomb raiding jobs are limited and he needs funds to maintain his experiments and his killer ninja rat colony who eat, unlike his zombie armies.

Timmy and Katie agree to work for the Mages and they set off on their first assignment with an unimpressive, bumbling bureaucrat from the Council who is apt to faint or hide when trouble comes. They must convince a powerful, malevolent, fire throwing elf to join them, or they must capture her. Either choice may prove fatal.

Two Necromancers, an Army of Golems, and a Demon Lord, book 2:
After successfully completing their first mission, Timmy and Kate, have returned to the castle accompanied by Avraniel, the still angry and fiery elf, and the bumbling bureaucrat, Gerald. Soon they are assigned the next mission which sets them off to face an army of golems controlled by a demon lord. And there is a massive dragon involved too. Golems and dragons and demons, oh my! What fun – but not without edge of death experiences for the unlikely heroes.

These stories are creative and entertaining. I will certainly want to continue the adventures. Although I appreciate getting two books included in the volumes, I may listen to one at a time as 13 hours of magical dangers and death defying escapes seemed a bit too much at one sitting. I highly recommend this to fans of fun, magical adventures.

Audio notes: Fred Berman is a skilled narrator who adds to the enjoyment of this work. He provides distinct voices and shares the humor of the characters. I enjoyed the audio presentation.

Source: March 2022 Free Audible Plus. This qualifies for 2023TBR, 2023Audiobook, and my 2023Numbers goals.

Audio Book Review: Deadbreak by Jorge Sanchez

This is a well written zombie survival story.
Deadbreak
Author Jorge Sanchez
Narrator: James Fouhey

Duration: 10 h 59 min
Release date: 02-25-20
Publisher: Tantor Audio
Genre: Science Fiction & Fantasy > Apocalyptic & Dystopian, Horror
My Rating: 4.5 of 5.0 Overall; Story 4.5; Narration 4.5.

Summary
It's been three long years since Deadbreak. That's what everyone's calling it-the day the dead rose. Every day since then Jeremiah Reid has had one goal: to make his way back to his daughter. With his four-legged companion, Joe, Jeremiah has to travel a lawless wasteland teeming with zombies, bandits, and worse, like people who put anchovies on pizza (you know who you are). It's a new world out there and no one is safe. People are weary, cities are in ruin, supplies are scarce, and brains are on the menu. If he's going to have a chance, he'll need his wits, a little bit of luck, and lots of ammo.

Review:
Jeremiah wasn’t a military warrior when his world succumbed to a deadly virus when the dead began to rise. Jeremiah, his wife, and daughter, Penny, tried to make their way to safety. Along the way, Jeremiah lost his wife and gave his child to others to shelter her. But he promised to find his little girl. He has to find a way to Hawaii where the General took Penny. If planes aren’t available, Jeremiah will find a ship off the west coast. But he has to get to the coast first.

Initially Jeremiah’s only friend is Joe, a dog who senses the walking dead and is helpful in a fight. Jeremiah stops for a time in a community of survivors who are rebuilding their town. Jeremiah is able to help by scavenging badly needed items. Jeremiah becomes friends with the medical lead, a smart veterinarian named Jenny. Jeremiah isn’t interested in any relationship as his focus remains on his daughter. For some reason, the mayor of the town does not care for Jeremiah and wants him gone. Before leaving Jeremiah warns the mayor of vulnerabilities of the community. Instead of heading the advice, the community soon faces an attack … and not just from the zombies.

Many of the townsfolk, including the mayor, are taken prisoner. Jenny too gets captured, and Jeremiah and Joe have to find a way to rescue them. He is approached by some surprising allies…but people aren’t always what you expect in this brutal world.

Jeremiah is a character I liked although he is remarkably lucky and manages to have a never ending supply of bullets. He continually gets to the brink of death and has to be rescued by Jenny who is an excellent shot and a true warrior. Jeremiah’s humor reminded me of my husband who was always calling people by names that were close to right but not. It could be terribly annoying but eventually is humorous. I like how Jenny is a strong companion who won’t give up.

The story is well written and has plenty of action, some gruesome, and, as noted, some humorous. I would be glad to seek out more work by Mr. Sanchez. I recommend this to fans of zombie and post-apocalyptic stories.

Audio Notes: James Fouhey does a grand job with the narration. His character voices are fitting, clear, and distinct. He captures the desperation and humor, of the characters. I would enjoy his narration again. It enhanced this listening experience.

Source: 10/30/2021 Audiobooks.com Two For One Credit Horror Audiobooks. This qualifies for 2023TBR amd 2023Audiobook goals.

Audio Book Review: What If It's True? by Charles Martin

Charles Martin shares an emotional and strong argument for faith in Jesus Christ.
What If It's True?
by Charles Martin
Narrated by Charles Martin

Run Time 9h 55min
Release Date: January 29, 2019
Publisher: Thomas Nelson
Tags: Christian Nonfiction, Religious & Inspirational, Christian Living
My Rating: 4.5 of 5.0 Overall; Story 4.5; Narration 4.5.

Publisher Description
See the Bible come to life before your eyes as New York Times bestselling author Charles Martin uses his storyteller imagination to present the Bible as a novel to help you engage with your faith in new ways.
Years ago, Charles Martin cracked open his Bible and began wrestling with a few fundamental questions: What if every single word of Scripture is absolutely true and I can trust it? How do I respond? Something in me should change, but what? How? This book is the result of that exploration.
In What If It’s True? Martin brings key moments from the life and ministry of Jesus to life through his descriptive, novelistic words. This unique book:
Fosters a stronger appreciation, love, and respect for Jesus. Covers topics including rejection, sexual sin, generational curses, and forgiveness. Draws on Old and New Testament references as well as cultural background information includes a prayer at the end of each chapter
Martin shares key moments from his own journey as a disciple—and bondservant—of Christ and a mentor to others. The result is an exploration of truth that will help you not just think differently but live differently—starting today.
Includes a song written by Charles Martin’s son, only available in the audiobook edition. Appendices that include topical verses from Scripture are available in the audiobook companion PDF download.

Review:
Charles Martin touched my heart with this study. Martin makes the story of Christ come alive through fiction based on the scripture. Then he studies the details in the time setting with the other people involved. Finally, he applies the passages to everyday living, particularly his own life, often sharing his own raw emotions. He concludes each section with a prayer that can be shared by the reader.

I enjoyed a fiction book by Martin a few years ago and was glad to try this one. It is informative and very moving. The studies strengthened my beliefs and faith. Martin is willing to expose his own thoughts and emotions to share the message. I recommend this to nonbelievers who are seeking, and to believers who would enjoy a chance to strengthen their understanding and faith.

Audio Notes: Charles Martin, as the author, does an effective job of narration. He presents his arguments and emotions in a clear and heartfelt voice. I made a point to pay attention to the audio so that I could absorb the message better. I enjoyed the audio version.

Source: December 2020 Chirp $4.99. This qualifies for 2023TBR and 2023Audiobook goals.

Audible Book Review: 299 Days, The Preparation, Book 1, by Glen Tate

This is an early prepper narrative – not action but preparation.

299 Days
The Preparation, Book 1
By: Glen Tate
Narrated by: Kevin Pierce

Length: 11 hrs and 9 mins
Release date: 10-26-14
Publisher: Sellerman and Sweeney, LLC
Genre: Action & Adventure, Dystopian, Prepper
My Rating: 4.0 of 5.0 Overall; Story 4.0; Narration 4.0.

Publisher's summary
Meet Grant Matson: lawyer, father, suburbanite husband who awakens to the fragility of modern society and embarks on a personal journey that introduces him to a world of self-reliance and liberation. 299 Days: The Preparation, the first audiobook in the 299 Days series, depicts the inner struggles Grant must face as he exists in a social system he recognizes as unsustainable and on the verge of collapse, but one in which he has built his life around. What begins as a return to his roots, self-sufficiency and independence, becomes a full blown move to prepare for what may come.
Engaging, insightful, and a bit suspenseful, follow Grant's transition from a self-perceived "sheeple" to a full-blown "prepper". Will his fears come true? Is he an extremist? What if nothing happens? What if something does?
©2012 Glen Tate (P)2014 Sellerman and Sweeney, LLC

Review:
Grant was raised by a logger father who fell into alcoholism after an accident. Thereafter his youth was full of abuse and dysfunction. Grant knows his family is poor and initially he thinks he can’t get beyond his circumstances. But he manages to go to college, meet and impress the woman of his dreams, and progress to law school. Upon graduation he is glad to get a position where he can fight for justice for the little guys set upon particularly by the government or big companies. He is distressed by government policies and he begins to see behind the scenes that America will suffer an economic fall from its massive debt.

Grant recognizes that the typical city “sheeple” will not be prepared to face trouble. He learned shooting and rural skills in his childhood and now he slowly turns to his rural roots and begins to gather the supplies to survive a social system failure. It starts with collecting guns and nonperishable food stockpiles. It continues with training with former military and law enforcement officers, to identifying other like-minded friends who he can reach out to when trouble hits. Finally, he is able to acquire (with his mother’s help) a cabin that is sustainable and defensible. Most of this is done behind the back of his wife which is bound to cause trouble at some point.

This story is told from the POV of Grant as he ponders the dangers of an economic collapse and step by step prepares for the worst. The author, through his main character, shares his dislike of liberal policies especially as they have impacted Washington State. There is limited action and suspense in this first book as the biggest suspense is in wondering how he will deal with his wife when the time comes and when the collapse may occur. Still, I enjoyed the journey of awareness and preparation for a plausible event. It is not a particularly exciting book but I found it entertaining. I will likely try the next book at some time. I recommend this to fans of prepper narratives (who won’t take offense to the political views).

Audio Notes: Kevin Pierce is an experienced and good narrator for this type of story. He provides distinct voices and solemnity of the purpose. The narration enhanced my enjoyment of the story.

Source: 3-3-2022 Audible Sale Purchase $3.74; (Regular Price: $24.95). This qualifies for 2023TBR, 2023Audiobook, and 2023Number goals.

Audio Book Review: A Wizard's Guide to Defensive Baking by T. Kingfisher

This is a charming story of a 14-year-old magical baker.
A Wizard's Guide to Defensive Baking
Author T. Kingfisher
Narrator: Patricia Santomasso

Duration: 8 h 30 min
Release Date October 2021
Publisher: Tantor Audio
Genre: Fantasy, Magic, Middle Grade, Mysteries
My Rating: 4.5 of 5.0 Overall; Story 4.5; Narration 4.5.

Publisher's summary
Fourteen-year-old Mona isn't like the wizards charged with defending the city. She can't control lightning or speak to water. Her familiar is a sourdough starter, and her magic only works on bread. She has a comfortable life in her aunt's bakery making gingerbread men dance.
But Mona's life is turned upside down when she finds a dead body on the bakery floor. An assassin is stalking the streets of Mona's city, preying on magic folk, and it appears that Mona is his next target. And in an embattled city suddenly bereft of wizards, the assassin may be the least of Mona's worries....
©2020 T. Kingfisher (P)2021 Tantor

Review:
Mona enjoys her magical skills to help in her aunt’s bakery. She occasionally entertains customers with dancing gingerbread men and in the basement is a mostly friendly bucket of sourdough starter, “Bob”, that they feed and it shares dough with her. Other than that, Mona isn’t inclined to think about magic.

One early morning. Mona arrives at the bakery to start cooking and she discovers a dead girl on the floor. The authorities take Mona to the Queen to have her sentenced for the murder. However, the Queen is aware that there are other forces at work and she releases Mona because she sees she isn’t the killer.

Coming home Mona meets a young boy in distress over the loss of his sister in the bakery. They realize that the girl, who had magical skills, may have been killed instead of Mona. Soon Mona and other gifted people in the community are leaving or going into hiding to avoid being assassinated or captured by the constables and authorities who are turning against wizards.

Mona and her new young friend, Spindle, eventually sneak into the castle to take their suspicions of a coup attempt to the Queen. With the military wizard out of the area and the local, elderly wizard under attack, the battle lands in the hands of Mona and her baked troops, including a gingerbread on her shoulder and ‘dough Bob’ in angry mode.

I enjoyed the characters of Mona, Spindle, the queen and the unique magical friends that help them. There is good pacing and action in this fun, entertaining, and charming story. I was glad to pick up several more books to try by this author. This story does have killing and battle, but I think it is still suitable for middle graders. I recommend this to fans of light magical challenges.

Audio Notes: Patricia Santomasso does a lovely job with the narration. She provides clear voices with emotions that fit the characters. The narration enhanced my enjoyment, and I would be glad to listen to more stories narrated by Ms. Santomasso.

Source: May 5, 2022 Two for One Deal Credit at Audiobooks.com. This qualifies for 2023TBR and 2023Audiobook goals.

Audible Book Review: The Dragon and the George by Godon R. Dickson

This is a good dragon, magic adventure.
The Dragon and the George
By: Gordon R. Dickson
Narrated by: Paul Boehmer

Series: Dragon Knight, Book 1
Length: 10 hrs and 47 mins
Release date: 09-23-14
Publisher: Audible Studios
Genre: Classic, Epic, Sword & Sorcery
My Rating: 4.0 of 5.0 Overall; Story 4.0; Narration 4.0.

Publisher's summary
Through no fault of his own, the once human Jim Eckert had become a dragon. Unfortunately, his beloved Angie had remained human. But in this magical land anything could happen.
To make matter worse, Angie had been taken prisoner by an evil dragon and was held captive in the impenetrable Loathly Tower. So in this land where humans were edible and beasts were magical - where spells worked and logic didn't-- Jim Eckert had a big, strange problem.
©1976 Gordon R. Dickson. ©2004 the Estate of Gordon R. Dickson (P)2014 Audible Inc.

Review:
Jim and his fiancé, Angie, are house hunting in hopes of being able to marry soon and move in together. Jim is a little frustrated that he isn’t getting the promotion he wants and also that Angie spends extra time with her professor. When Angie is late coming out of the university,, Jim finds that the professor has accidentally transported her somewhere and sometime, but he is not sure where. Jim believes it would be with dragons so the professor agrees to send Jim’s psychic only to find Angie and bring her back. While focusing on Angie and dragons, Jim wakes up to discover he is a dragon!

When Angie as a human (a “George”) is taken prisoner by an evil dragon, Jim aka Gorbash the dragon, has to find a way to save her. He speaks to the local wizard who sends him on a quest for companions so that he can prevail in approaching the Loathly Tower and saving his lady love.

I was not aware of this classic dragon tale. The story is entertaining on a low-key level, likely because it was written in the 1970s. I enjoyed the collection of companions, both beasts (wolf and dragons) and human and the dangers and monsters they faced. I also enjoyed the medieval history and the magical elements. I am glad that I have more books in the series to listen to. I recommend this to fans of dragon adventures.

Audio Notes: Paul Boehmer does a nice job with the narration. He provides good energy and distinct character voices. I enjoyed the audio presentation.

Source: September 2020 Audible Plus Catalog. This qualifies for 2023TBR and 2023Audiobook goals.

Audio Book Review: Hunted, A Seventeen Series Novel Book 1, by AD Starrling

This is full of action and I liked it.

Hunted
A Seventeen Series Novel Book 1
By AD Starrling
Read by Michael Bower

Run Time 10h 2min
Release Date: July 21, 2015
Publisher: AD STARRLING
Genre: Fantasy, Science Fiction & Fantasy, Supernatural, Urban Fantasy
My Rating: 4.25 of 5.0 Overall; Story 4.25; Narration 4.25.

After over a century being hunted, Soul, a half-breed of two immortal races, treks across the world to uncover the mystery behind the target on his back. Can he stop a terrible war before he dies his seventeenth — and last — death? An action-packed, heart-pounding listen!

Review:
Soul is a half-breed of two immoral races. The races, Bastian, his mother’s family, and Crovir, his father’s clan, have been at war for hundreds of years. Soul has already spent 350 years running from Hunters as the clans hate him as a half-breed and because he is one of the few known immortals who can permanently kill other immortals.

Recently, the Hunters have found Soul again and an attack has resulted in Soul's 15th death. Since the immortals only get 17 deaths before being permanently dead, Soul decides to turn on the Hunters and find out why they are after him again. Soul is joined in his quest by his friend and human PI business partner Reid, a former US Marine.

The investigation takes Soul and Reid racing from New York to Paris, Prague, and more, ultimately planning a raid on a private Mediterranean island. Soul is searching for a professor who was studying immortality and a female companion. Soul and Reid are one step behind the Hunters who set up scenes to make Soul and Reid appear to be murderers. As Soul finally catches up with those he is seeking he faces revelations about his own past and they uncover a diabolical plot that could wipe out the majority of the immortals leaving only a tyrannical elite to rule the world.

I enjoyed the action and intrigue in this story. There is plenty of violence and there are twists that keep the reader moving forward in the suspense. I had previously listened to one of the short stories and I may pick up more of the series in the future. I recommend this to fans of suspenseful fast-paced action.

Audio Notes: Michael Bower does a good job with the narration. He provides distinct voices and empathetic energy. The narration enhanced my enjoyment of the story.

Source 2019 Chirp Purchase. This qualifies for 2023TBR and 2023Audiobook goals.

Audio Book Review: The Dragonet Prophecy (Wings of Fire #1) by Tui T. Sutherland

I enjoyed this dragon story which had good lessons for children although there was violence.
The Dragonet Prophecy (Wings of Fire #1)
Series: #1 of Wings of Fire
Written by: Tui T. Sutherland
Narrated by: Shannon McManus

Duration 8 hours 32 minutes
Release date: 07-01-12
Publisher: Scholastic Audio
Genre: Action & Adventure, Dragons, Fantasy, Growing Up
My Rating: 4.0 of 5.0 Overall; Story 4.0; Narration 4.0.

Summary
A thrilling new series soars above the competition and redefines middle-grade fantasy fiction for a new generation! The seven dragon tribes have been at war for generations, locked in an endless battle over an ancient, lost treasure. A secret movement called the Talons of Peace is determined to bring an end to the fighting, with the help of a prophecy -- a foretelling that calls for great sacrifice. Five dragonets are collected to fulfill the prophecy, raised in a hidden cave and enlisted, against their will, to end the terrible war. But not every dragonet wants a destiny. And when the select five escape their underground captors to look for their original homes, what has been unleashed on the dragon world may be far more than the revolutionary planners intended . . .

Review:
Five unique dragonets have been raised together hidden deep underground. The five are supposed to be the elements of a prophecy to end the continual wars between the seven dragon tribes. There are problems though because these five dragonets are not all of the intended original babies. At least two of the selected eggs had to be replaced.

The dragon ‘nannies’ have been faithful, although a bit harsh, in trying to train the young dragonets whom they deride and often seem frustrated by and disappointed in. Each of the dragonets has their own strengths but it is not clear they will be able to survive once they enter the world and face the threats of many dragon tribes who don’t want peace.

There is a set time that the dragonets are supposed to venture out in accordance with the prophecy but the young friends fear one will be killed if they don’t escape, especially after another of their friends has been taken out by his tribe leader. It doesn’t take long before the escaped dragonets are being chased by warring dragons seeking to destroy them.

This first story focuses on Clay, a mud dragonet. Clay is quiet and hasn’t been able to learn to fight in spite of his trainers abusively pushing him. It is sweet to watch Clay take a position of leadership among his friends even though he doesn’t seek that responsibility.

This has been on my TBR for a while and I pulled it out since my granddaughter was reading it too. I liked the unique characters of the dragonets and watching them discover their talents. There is violence in the forceful training and more out in the world when the young friends face the warring dragons. But the reader can see that the dragonets are willing to seek alternatives to avoid the extreme violence. The next stories are intended to tell the stories of each of the five dragonets but the series is now up to book 15. I think they would be interesting, although I may not jump to get more. I do recommend that fans of dragon fantasy characters should try this series.

Audio Notes: Shannon McManus does a good job providing distinct voices for the characters. There is also clear energy although there is some girly sound in the early part of the book. Overall I did enjoy listening to this story.

Source: 7/5/2018 won with 7 other titles from Audiobook.com through Beth Fish Reads. This qualifies for 2023TBR and 2023Audiobook goals.

Audio Book Review: Hope Harbor by Irene Hannon

This is a nice story with second chance romance and family redemption.
Hope Harbor
By Irene Hannon
Narrator: Therese Plummer

Duration: 9 h 45 min
Release date: 07-07-15
Publisher: Recorded Books
Genre: Christian Romance, Contemporary
My Rating: 4.5 of 5.0 Overall; Story 4.5; Narration 4.5.

Publisher's summary
Come home to Hope Harbor - where hearts heal...and love blooms. Tracy Campbell never wanted to leave Hope Harbor, Oregon, or the idyllic three-generation cranberry farm where she grew up. But life - and love - altered her plans. Now she's home again - with a floundering farm to run...a tragic secret...and a wounded heart. Romance is not on her agenda. Nor is it on Michael Hunter's. The visitor from Chicago has daunting secrets and devastating regrets of his own. But when Tracy recruits him to help with a project that is close to her heart, winds of change begin to sweep through Hope Harbor, bringing healing, hope, and love to countless lives - including their own.
©2015 Irene Hannon (P)2015 Recorded Books

Review:
Tracy Campbell grew up in Hope Harbor and came back after being away at college. Although she is glad to be back with her Aunt and Uncle taking care of the cranberry farm, she has survived a tragic loss, and is struggling with the decline of the farm. She is focused on the farm and not ready to open herself to new hurt.

Michael Hunter has come to Hope Harbor due to a long desire of his deceased wife. His visit is intended to be short term while he tries to focus his life dealing with regrets after her death. He bumps into Tracy and soon finds himself helping her and making friends in the community. Michael is also drawing his new landlord out of her self-imposed seclusion of many years.

I liked how both Tracy and Michael slowly begin to recognize that their meeting is not mere coincidence, and perhaps God has a different plan for their future. The romance is sweet and the underlying faith messages of healing, hope, and forgiveness are encouraging. I recommend this story (and author) to fans of clean, Christian romance.

Audio Notes: Therese Plummer is a lovely narrator. She delivers clear voices and energy that fits the characters and plot. Her narration enhanced the story for me.

Source: 2018 Audiobooks.com 2 for 1 credit. This qualifies for 2023TBR, 2023Audiobook, and 2023Location goals.

Audible Book Review: Etched in Bone, A Novel of the Others by Anne Bishop

I do like this creative series.

Etched in Bone
A Novel of the Others
By: Anne Bishop
Narrated by: Alexandra Harris

Length: 16 hrs and 21 mins
Release date: 03-07-17
Publisher: Penguin Audio
Genre: Contemporary, Fantasy, Shifters
My Rating: 4.5 of 5.0 Overall; Story 4.5; Narration 4.5.

Publisher's summary
New York Times best-selling author Anne Bishop returns to her world of the Others, as humans struggle to survive in the shadow of shape-shifters and vampires far more powerful than themselves….
After a human uprising was brutally put down by the Elders - a primitive and lethal form of the Others - the few cities left under human control are far-flung. And the people within them now know to fear the no man's land beyond their borders - and the darkness....
As some communities struggle to rebuild, Lakeside Courtyard has emerged relatively unscathed, though Simon Wolfgard, its wolf shifter leader, and blood prophet Meg Corbyn must work with the human pack to maintain the fragile peace. But all their efforts are threatened when Lieutenant Montgomery's shady brother arrives, looking for a free ride and easy pickings.
With the humans on guard against one of their own, tensions rise, drawing the attention of the Elders, who are curious about the effect such an insignificant predator can have on a pack. But Meg knows the dangers, for she has seen in the cards how it will all end: with her standing beside a grave.
©2017 Anne Bishop (P)2017 Penguin Audio

Review:
The human communities are struggling to rebuild after the Elders of the Others brutally ended a human rebellion which was directed at killing the Others. Lakeside Courtyard has reached a delicate balance between the shifters and humans, but there are new arrivals and outsiders who threaten the peace.

Lieutenant Montgomery is a human officer who has worked well with the community. His Mother, sister and her children have moved to Lakeside and are settling in. His mother especially has found friends and a good work position. His sister is having more of a struggle, and unwittingly, has led an estranged brother, Jimmy, to think he can make an easy move to the Courtyard. Montgomery warns Simon Wolfgard that Jimmy has an unsavory past and is likely to cause trouble. Simon would like to deny Jimmy entry to the community but the Elders direct him to allow the man in so they can watch how a troublemaker behaves and impacts the pack.

Jimmy arrives with his wife and two children. His wife has no desire to work or contribute in a positive way to the community, but she does want Jimmy to bring home food and money. Their son is bullying his sister and cousins as he follows in his father’s footsteps. They may only be one family but the disruption and danger they bring is more than the Elders expected.

I enjoyed this continuation of the series. The abusive situations were hard to read and there are interesting group and family dynamics addressed in the conflicts that Ms. Bishop creates for the characters. I found the hints of future connections among the characters, particularly Simon and Meg, interesting. I recommend a reader start this series at the beginning and then they can enjoy the interaction better.

Audio Notes: Alexandra Harris does a wonderful job with the narration. She provides clear character voices and energy. The narration enhanced my enjoyment of the story.

Source: 10/17/22 Audible September Credit. This qualifies for 2023TBR and 2023Audiobook goals.

Audible Book Review: Robinson Crusoe 2244 by E. J. Robinson

This dystopian post-apocalyptic is interesting though not gripping.

Robinson Crusoe 2244
By: E. J. Robinson
Narrated by: Malk Williams

Length: 8 hrs and 1 min
Release date: 05-27-15
Publisher: E. J. Robinson
Genre: Dystopian, Post-Apocalyptic, Teen & Young Adult
My Rating: 4.0 of 5.0 Overall; Story 4.0; Narration 4.0.

Publisher's summary
Two centuries after mankind drove itself to the brink of extinction, a new civilization rises from the ashes of what was once Great Britain. But when deadly strife breaks out among their ranks, the teenage son of one prominent family finds himself fleeing in the dead of night, only to wind up shipwrecked on the forbidden continent of America. Armed with only his wit and the most unexpected of allies, the teenager struggles to survive in a wasteland filled with unspeakable horrors. In the end, he must uncover the one secret that can either save his own people, or spell doom for mankind forever.
©2014 Erik Robinson (P)2015 Erik Robinson

Review:
Robinson Crusoe is a teenage son of Tiers, a prominent family in the new regime of New London a community behind the Wall that keeps out the monsters. The One People have rules that help maintain peace, health, and security by controlling the classes, prohibiting weapons, and restricting freedoms. If you violate the rules, you may be executed in public to send a message to others.

Robinson is now turning of age and graduating from school when he will be expected to apprentice under his executive father. Robinson has caused mischief all of his young life and his latest antics are causing embarrassment. But there is other trouble in the wings as some of the Tiers seem to be plotting a campaign of rebellion. Events take a tumultuous turn forcing Robinson to flee his Regen and travel to the far distant land of America. His landing isn’t secure and he soon is struggling to survive in a wasteland filled with Renders, the mutated remnants of humanity. And he suspects that he has uncovered a huge secret that concerns his own family. He latches onto an old man who teaches him how to hide and hunt. And then he learns about other monsters who show up once a month.

Robinson finds a friend in a mutated dog that is friendly rather than vicious. And when the old man disappears, Robinson rescues a caged young woman who is more of a fighter than he is.

Clearly the title and text has parallels to the original 1719 book, Robinson Crusoe. But this story veers with the dystopian world, monster beings, and political scheming. I found the story entertaining with danger, action, secrets, and intrigue. I liked how Robinson grows to survive the struggles he faces, but there were plot issues and character developments that seemed contrived to move the story forward. I might continue the story in the future, but it is a must move forward series for me. I recommend this to fans of dystopian with teen heroes, especially readers who might enjoy the tie to Robinson Crusoe.

Audio Notes: Malk Williams does a good job with the narration. The British accent fits the story and he provides distinct voices for the characters. He also gives clear intonation to the descriptions that make it visual. The narration enhanced my enjoyment of the story.

Source: 7/17/2022 I got a $7.00 credit so this book from my wish list ended up costing $.49 since I already had the Kindle copy. This qualifies for 2023TBR, 2023Audiobook, and 2023Number goals.

Audio Book Review: The Secret of Pembrooke Park by Julie Klassen

I enjoyed this Christian historical romance which I think has gothic elements.
The Secret of Pembrooke Park
Author Julie Klassen
Narrator: Elizabeth Jasicki

Duration: 18 h 6 min
Release date: 12-12-14
Publisher: Recorded Books
Genre: Christian Historical, Historical Romance
My Rating: 4.0 of 5.0 Overall; Story 4.0; Narration 4.0.

Publisher's summary
Abigail Foster fears she will end up a spinster, especially as she has little dowry to improve her charms and the one man she thought might marry her - a longtime friend - has fallen for her younger, prettier sister. When financial problems force her family to sell their London home, a strange solicitor arrives with an astounding offer: the use of a distant manor house abandoned for 18 years. The Fosters journey to imposing Pembrooke Park and are startled to find it entombed as it was abruptly left: tea cups encrusted with dry tea, moth-eaten clothes in wardrobes, a doll's house left mid-play... The handsome local curate welcomes them, but though he and his family seem to know something about the manor's past, the only information they offer Abigail is a warning: Beware trespassers who may be drawn by rumors that Pembrooke contains a secret room filled with treasure. Hoping to improve her family's financial situation, Abigail surreptitiously searches for the hidden room, but the arrival of anonymous letters addressed to her, with clues about the room and the past, bring discoveries even more startling. As secrets come to light, will Abigail find the treasure and love she seeks.... or very real danger?
©2014 Julie Klassen (P)2014 Recorded Books

Review:
Abigail Foster takes responsibility for an investment her father made that turns bad. This is a blow after her long time childhood friend, who she expected to offer her marriage, seems to show interest in her sister before leaving for a year of school abroad. As the family is faced with downsizing and moving from their home, they are offered the opportunity to move to a country manor house that has been abandoned for 18 years. Abigail and her father go to the country to prepare Pembrooke Park while her mother and younger sister remain in town so her sister can attend her first society season.

Abigail is surprised by the condition of the house, which looks like it was suddenly abandoned and then left that way. As she works to clean up the home and make it livable she begins to hear rumors and then is warned of trespassers who may come seeking a secret room and treasure. If they had 18 years of vacancy to search, why would someone show up now that the house is occupied again? But she hears footsteps at night, catches a glimpse of a hooded intruder, and has to deal with a surly butler who makes inappropriate comments. Abigail receives anonymous letters hinting at the location of the secret room and she begins her own secret search.

The nearby curate begins a friendship with Abigail, but he is frustrated that he does not have a living to support himself, much less a wife and a family. Then a suave, estranged cousin of the Pembrooke family arrives, and Abigail’s father invites him to stay. Although both men show interest in her, Abigail feels no man choose her since she is the less lovely sister and has no dowry to bring to a marriage. Can Abigail find the secret room and perhaps a treasure to help her family? Or will the searching bring danger from others who want the treasure for themselves?

I did enjoy the very prevalent Christian scripture and messaging. I also liked the detail, the historical, sweet romance, the secrets, and the gothic like elements. I did feel the story was drawn out longer than it needed to be but at least it was enjoyable. I recommend this to fans of Christian, historical romance.

Audio Notes: I enjoyed the narration by Elizabeth Jasicki once I settled in on her voice. She follows the story and presents it well. I am glad I had the audio to listen to.

Source: 5/27/2022 Audiobooks.com May VIP selection. (Also, at Audible Plus Catalog in February 2023 available to 9/12/2023.) This qualifies for 2023TBR and 2023Audiobook goals.

#NetGalley Audio Book Review: The Lost Library by Rebecca Stead and Wendy Mass

This is a charming middle grade fantasy, light mystery.

The Lost Library
By Rebecca Stead and Wendy Mass
Narrators: Christopher Gebauer, Jennifer Blom, and Rob Dircks

Length: 4hr 15min
Pub Date: 29 Aug 2023
NetGalley Archive Date: 05 Sep 2023.
Release date: 08-29-23
Publisher: Macmillan Young Listeners
Genre: Books, Cat, Magical Fantasy, Middle Grade, Mystery
My Rating: 4.5 of 5.0 Overall; Story 4.25; Narration 4.5.

When a mysterious little free library (guarded by a large orange cat) appears overnight in the small town of Martinville, eleven-year-old Evan plucks two weathered books from its shelves, never suspecting that his life is about to change.
Evan and his best friend Rafe quickly discover a link between one of the old books and a long-ago event that none of the grown-ups want to talk about. The two boys start asking questions whose answers will transform not only their own futures, but the town itself.
Told in turn by a ghost librarian named Al, an aging (but beautiful) cat named Mortimer, and Evan himself, The Lost Library is a timeless story from award-winning authors Rebecca Stead and Wendy Mass. It’s about owning your truth, choosing the life you want, and the power of a good book (and, of course, the librarian who gave it to you).

Review:
The public library burned down years ago in the small town of Martinville. It surprises everyone when a mysterious little free library appears one morning. The small unit is apparently guarded by a large orange cat who watches all the goings on. Eleven-year-old Evan is quick to choose to books from the library and these trigger a mystery. The last check out of the books appears to be by a man who became a famous author but the date is important. The date is the day the library burned, an event that no one talks about.

Evan and his best friend, Rafe, start asking question as Evan is determined to solve the mystery of the fire. He isn’t happy about the facts that he uncovers and is insistent on pushing for answers.

The story is charmingly told by Mortimer, the cat, a ghostly librarian named AI, and Evan. It shares the importance of books and libraries, as well as the importance of being open minded to investigate and not jump to conclusions.

I totally enjoyed this quick, sweet story and would love to share it with my grandchildren. It has a good message and sweet characters. I recommend this to anyone who loves books and libraries.

Audio Notes: The three narrators, Christopher Gebauer, Jennifer Blom, and Rob Dircks, do a lovely job delivering the story with clarity and empathy. I am pleased I had the chance to listen to this through NetGalley.

Source: 6/29/2023 NetGalley. This qualifies for 2023NetGalley and 2023Audiobook goal.

Audible Book Review: Eden's Gate: The Reborn A LitRPG Adventure, Book 1 by Edward Brody

I picked this for the LitRPG factor. It was engaging distraction while I was dozing on and off.
Eden's Gate: The Reborn
A LitRPG Adventure, Book 1
By: Edward Brody
Narrated by: Pavi Proczko

Length: 10 hrs and 17 mins
Release date: 03-30-17
Publisher: Edward Brody
Genre: Adventure, Fantasy, LitRPG
My Rating: 4.0 of 5.0 Overall; Story 4.0; Narration 4.0.

Publisher's summary
When Gunnar Long is transported into the first fully-immersive virtual MMORPG, he finds himself in a new world filled with magic, mystery, and adventure.
No more 9-to-5 job. No more studio apartment. No more reality TV.
Finally, he's in a place where he can call home, a place with people he can call friends.
But as more people want to trade their real world lives to get inside Eden's Gate, the government of the outside world wants the "game" shut down at all costs.
Gunnar must learn to survive, grow in power, and find a way to send a message back to his old home.
"We're fine. We're alive. Eden's Gate is real."
Eden's Gate is a LitRPG adventure.
©2017 Edward Brody (P)2017 Edward Brody

Review:
Gunnar is pretty much a loner except for his girlfriend. He enjoys role playing games (RPGs) and is excited when the latest fully immersive virtual game and headset tech are released. He and his girlfriend are quick to put the headsets on agreeing to compare notes in 30 minutes. Gunnar arrives in a cave and has to start fighting his way out. It doesn't take long before Gunnar discovers he can’t exit the game. He is frustrated by what he thinks is a glitch and contemplates how he can find his girlfriend.

Fortunately, a battered Gunnar stumbles into an NPC (non-playing character) who helps him recover and begins to explain the world he finds himself in. As time and challenges go by, it becomes more and more clear that Gunnar can die and be reborn at his last base spot but he can’t find a way to exit the game.

Interspersed with the adventures are ‘real life’ efforts to shut down the game before more people commit life suicide in exchange for a game life. Can the living authorities be convinced that the players are basically “alive” within the game before the plug is pulled?

I enjoyed the leveling up process even though there is a little too much repetition of stats for the RPG. I liked how Gunnar learns how to accept help, honor friendship, and work with others for successes. There are interesting monsters and allies as the adventure moves forward and there is an intense race to save the game from being shut off.

There is some foul language but not excessive. The world, characters, and battles are entertaining and I recommend this to fans of the LitRPG genre.

Audio Notes: I enjoyed the narration by Pavi Proczko. His voice fits the primary character and he provided distinct accents for the other characters as well. The delivery is steady and the audio enhanced my enjoyment of the work.

Source: 3/31/19 High Five Audible Sale title - $5.00. This qualifies for 2023TBR and 2023Audiobook goal.

Audible Book Review: Black Sheep by Rachel Aukes

This was a satisfactory sci fi if not overwhelming.
Black Sheep
A Space Opera Adventure (Flight of the Javelin, Book 1)
By: Rachel Aukes
Narrated by: Emily Woo Zeller

Length: 9 hrs and 4 mins
Release date: 06-16-20
Publisher: Aethon Audio
Genre: First Contact, Space Opera
My Rating: 4.25 of 5.0 Overall; Story 4.25; Narration 4.5.

Publisher's summary
An alien ship. Stolen colonists. All Throttle wanted was a vacation....
Fifteen years into a 20-year voyage, war veteran Captain Throttle Reyne is looking forward to taking a break from dealing with malfunctions, glitches, and the hassles of monitoring 1,000 colonists in cryo-sleep.
But when her colony ship breaks down in the middle of nowhere, Throttle and her crew must leave the colonists behind to search for help. They find a ship that's not only missing a crew...it's clearly not from their star system.
It's the discovery of a lifetime. All they need to do is tow the mysterious vessel back to their colony ship for further study and Throttle won't ever have to work again. One problem. While they're away, the colony ship is stolen - with the colonists still on board.
Throttle gives chase to a lawless star system on the outer rim. To get their colonists back, they must take on the pirates and ganglords who will do anything - and sell anyone - to make a buck.
They play dirty. But Throttle and her crew play dirtier.
Strap on your restraints and experience the start of this new space-opera thrill ride. It's perfect for fans of Jay Allan, Jennifer Foehner Wells, and Star Wars.
©2020 Aethon Books (P)2020 Aethon Audio

Review:
Throttle and her crew have been managing to maintain 1,000 colonists in cryo-sleep while coping with malfunctions and glitches on their ship, the Gabriella, 15 years into a 20-year voyage. For a long time there have been rumors that there is a ghost or stowaway saboteur on the ship although the culprit has never been caught. Things go from troubled to disaster when the ship goes into complete services and power loss. The crew have to rush to move the colonist pods to a location to give them the best chance of survival while the crew goes out on a shuttle seeking help.

Once out in space the crew stumble across an alien ship that is apparently dead in the water. They approach with caution to find an AI that has maintained the ship for hundreds of years but needs just a little assistance to come back alive. Once they are able to get more power to the AI, dubbed “Rusty”, the AI is able to begin to give the crew help, including telling them that the Gabriella has been moved from its location.

The Gabriella has been hijacked by pirates in space and Throttle follows the ships into an unexpected and ‘gang controlled’ space station. Not only will Throttle and her team need to figure out how to get out of the clutches of the warring sibling leaders, but they must rescue the colonists before they are sold into mining slavery.

Throttle is a strong character as a paraplegic with no use of her legs without the special braces her crew helps to maintain. Her crew includes a good mix with a former pirate, a medical officer, a recalcitrant machinist, a computer hacker, and an added warrior. Throttle earned her name due to her full-on attitude and her crew gives her the best support. There is full-on action and adventure with one escapade after another needed to succeed in the survival of the team and colonists. I enjoyed the action and escapes and will look forward to reading more by this author. I recommend this to fans of fast-paced space action.

Audio Notes: Emily Woo Zeller is a really good narrator. She provides clear voices and on target energy to keep up with the pace of the story. The narration added to my enjoyment of this story.

Source: 12/27/2020 Audible Two for One Credit Sale. This qualifies for 2023TBR, 2023Audiobook and my 2023Color goals.

Audible Book Review: The Summer House by James Patterson, Brendan DuBois

I was totally drawn in by this crime/police procedural!

The Summer House
By: James Patterson, Brendan DuBois
Narrated by: Ari Fliakos

Length: 10 hrs and 19 mins
Release date: 06-08-20
Publisher: Hachette Audio
Genre: Crime Thriller, Military, Police Procedural, Suspense
My Rating: 4.75 of 5.0 Overall; Story 4.75; Narration 5.0.

Publisher's summary
When seven murder victims are found in a small town, the homicide investigation shakes a small-town sheriff to her core in James Patterson's tense thriller.
Once a luxurious Southern getaway on a rustic lake, then reduced to a dilapidated crash pad, the Summer House is now the grisly scene of a nighttime mass murder. Eyewitnesses point to four Army Rangers - known as the Night Ninjas - recently returned from Afghanistan.
To ensure that justice is done, the Army sends Major Jeremiah Cook, a veteran and former NYPD cop, to investigate. But the major and his elite team arrive in sweltering Georgia with no idea their grim jobs will be made exponentially more challenging by local law enforcement, who resists the Army's intrusion and stonewall them at every turn.
As Cook and his squad struggle to uncover the truth behind the condemning evidence, the pieces just won't fit - and forces are rallying to make certain damning secrets die alongside the victims in the murder house. With his own people in the cross-hairs, Cook takes a desperate gamble to find answers - even if it means returning to a hell of his own worst nightmares....
©2020 James Patterson and Brendan DuBois (P)2020 Hachette Audio

Review:
A horrendous mass murder occurred in a rundown country house known as the Summer House located in a small town in Georgia. Witnesses direct the local sheriff, Emma Williams, to four Army Rangers who are an elite team known as the Night Ninjas. As soon as Army members are identified, a unique military investigative team is called in to insure justice – to the men and to the community – wherever the facts lead.

Major Jeremiah Cook, a wounded veteran and former NYPD cop, is assigned with his five diverse teammates including a JAG lawyer, an Asian psychologist, a female CID officer, and a Hispanic investigator. Although the facts seem to be packaged and handed to them, the team is quick to see inconsistencies and misdirection. They learn that the four accused were recently returned from Afghanistan after being accused of a similar crime. As the investigation digs deeper and witnesses and evidence begin to disappear, Cook determines he needs to check into the Afghanistan event. He sets off to the place he said he would never return to.

I was immediately drawn to the story and quickly came to like the well-developed investigative team. I was horrified by the corruption that fills the story and the bigotry was obvious too. I feel bad the southerners were stereotyped with these elements, but it fit the story. The story is steady suspense with a few very tense moments.

I do like the direct tone and shorter chapters used by Patterson. I also liked the POV mix with part told from Cook’s first person and the other told third person. The full package makes this a very worthwhile read/listen and reminds me why I used to regularly read Patterson. I plan to get more. I recommend this to fans of good police procedure and crime fiction.

Audio Notes: Ari Fliakos does a wonderful job with the narration. He provides distinct voices and spot on energy. I thought the audio performance enhanced my enjoyment of the story.

Source: 12/21/2020 Audible Daily Deal $3.95. This qualifies for 2023TBR, 2023Audiobook and my Season goals.