#NetGalley Audio Book Review: The Instructor by T.R. Hendricks

I enjoyed the military survival training in this suspenseful story.
The Instructor
By T.R. Hendricks
Narrated by: Jay Snyder

Series: Derek Harrington, Book 1
Length: 9 hrs and 45 mins
Release date: 04-11-23
Publisher: Macmillan Audio
Genre: Military, Suspense, Thriller
My Rating: 4.0 of 5.0 Overall; Story 4.0; Narration 4.0.

Derek Harrington, retired Marine Force Recon and SERE instructor, is barely scraping by teaching the basics of wilderness survival. His fledgling bushcraft school is on the cusp of going out of business and expenses are piling up fast. His only true mission these days? To get his ailing father into a full care facility and to support his ex-wife and their son.
When one of his students presents him with an opportunity too good to be true―$20,000 to instruct a private group for 30 days in upstate New York―Derek reluctantly takes the job, despite his reservations about the group's insistence on anonymity. But it isn't long before the training takes an unexpected turn―and a new offer is made.
Reaching out to an FBI contact to sound his concerns, Derek soon finds himself in deep cover, deep in the woods, embroiled with a fringe group led by a charismatic leader who will stop at nothing to get what he wants. When what he wants becomes Derek's head, the teacher is pitted against his students as Derek races against time to stop what could very well be the first attack by the domestic terrorist cell.

Review:
Derek is a retired expert teaching the basics of serious wilderness survival. At the end of the most recent class, one man offers him a significant fee to come train his team. Derek goes reluctantly because he has to leave behind his ailing father and his son who expects him to attend his games. Derek has some concerns about the training when he is delivered blind folded to a compound that raises lots of questions. Especially when he is offered another significant sum for extended training.

On a very brief break from the compound training, Derek reaches out to a friend in the FBI. His friend agrees convinces Derek to go back undercover to gain more information. Derek has to do the training and increase the skills of the compound team over the weeks, or it would be suspicious, even though Derek fears that he may be training terrorists. He finds another undercover agent and they try to plan an exit before they are exposed. But things aren’t quite as they seem, and Derek really hasn’t managed to shelter those he should be protecting.

The story has a good bit of Rambo action. It is filled with wilderness training that I did find interesting. The full-on action and suspense are a great element. Unfortunately, there were some obvious flaws as Derek fails to take some protective steps and falls into some obvious traps. Overall, I did enjoy the action and I would try the next book. I recommend this to fans of military action.

Audio Notes: Jay Snyder does a good job with the narration. He provides distinct voices and emotional feelings to fit the text. I appreciate getting to listen to this audiobook.

Source: 2023 NetGalley. This qualifies for 2023NetGalley and 2023Audiobook goals.

Audible Book Review: The Fifth Victim, The Cherokee Pointe Series, Book 1, by Beverly Barton

I liked the occult element and the suspense (but not the amount of sex).

The Fifth Victim
The Cherokee Pointe Series, Book 1
By: Beverly Barton
Narrated by: Marguerite Gavin

Length: 10 hrs and 23 mins
Release date: 09-25-18
Publisher: Blackstone Audio, Inc.
Genre: Mystery, Romantic Suspense
My Rating: 4.0 of 5.0 Overall; Story 3.75; Narration 4.0.

Publisher's Summary
Some things shouldn't be seen....
Cherokee Pointe, Tennessee. Deep in the Smoky Mountains, the victim lies, sacrificed on a makeshift altar - the gruesome work of a killer who has evaded the authorities in state after state. FBI agent Dallas Sloan knows the scene all too well - just as he knows the killings won't stop until there are four more bodies.
Some warnings won't be heeded....
Genny Madoc's "sixth sense" has brought many of Cherokee Pointe's residents to her isolated log cabin, looking for help. But now it's Genny who needs help from the disturbing visions she sees - images that are getting stronger and more violent day by day.
Some fears can't be stopped....
Thrown together by necessity, drawn to each other by desire, Dallas and Genny must band together, searching the darkest heart of a town's hidden secrets before a twisted killer can complete a sinister plan that will make one of them the fifth victim.
©2018 Beverly Barton (P)2018 Blackstone Audio, Inc.

Review:
FBI agent Dallas Sloan is on the tail of a gruesome killer who kills in groups of five. Sloan knows because one of the groups included his young niece. The FBI could not find a connection, but Sloan is sure there is one. Sloan is not assigned to the case but will take every free time to investigate leads. This time the lead takes him to Cherokee Pointe, in the Smoky Mountains of Tennessee.

Genny Madox is an unusual and isolated young woman living in a cabin in the woods above the town. Genny provides herb remedies, learned from her grandmother, and occasional readings to members of the community. There are some who call Genny a witch, but those closest to her know she has a sixth sense and sees visions of events she doesn’t necessarily want to see. Now she has seen the brutal, sacrificial killing of a young girl and called her cousin the local Sheriff, telling him where to find the victim.

By the time Sloan arrives in town, they are locating the next victim. Sloan doesn’t believe in psychics, but he is drawn to Genny and soon finds himself trying to protect her from her own nightmares. As their relationship heats up, he finds himself protecting her when they realize she may be a target of the killer.

I liked the characters, the psychic element, and enjoyed the mystery. Unfortunately for me, the sexual content (some describe as ‘soft porn’) detracted from the rest of the story. I had a vague recollection from a prior Barton novel that I didn’t care for the level of sex and now that I have confirmed this I am less likely to read/listen to any more by this author even though I have two more in the series. That’s just my tastes. I would recommend this to fans of romantic suspense who don’t mind the graphic sexual element.

Audio Notes: Marguerite Gavin is a skilled narrator who I have enjoyed in several other series. She does provide distinct voices although I am not sure she was the best narrator for this book. I was startled by the reading of chapter numbers in a breathy voice that didn’t fit. This unexpected narrative feature did disrupt the flow of the story. Still, I am generally glad to listen to stories as they move faster for me.

Source: 6/10/2021 Free from Audible Plus. This qualifies for 2023TBR, 2023Audiobook, and 2023Number goals.

Audible Book Review: Renegades, Expeditionary Force, Book 7, by Craig Alanson

I enjoy this series with the snarky AI and the pirate crew who manage to pull off miracles.
Renegades
Expeditionary Force, Book 7
By: Craig Alanson
Narrated by: R.C. Bray

Length: 17 hrs and 7 mins
Release date: 03-26-19
Publisher: Podium Audio
Genre: Adventure, Military, Space Opera
My Rating: 4.25 of 5.0 Overall; Story 4.0; Narration 4.5.

Publisher's Summary
The battle-scarred star carrier Flying Dutchman is finally on her way back to Earth, after an exceptionally successful series of missions that have once again saved the world. The ship needs a serious refit, and her exhausted crew just wants a break from constant clandestine warfare against a vicious and superior enemy. Wishes come true, right? Not for the Merry Band of Pirates.
Includes special bonus note from the author.
©2018 Craig Alanson (P)2019 Podium Publishing

Review:
The Flying Dutchman made it back to Earth to report their bizarre but successful missions that saved the world, temporarily. The crew also had to report to authorities that the enemy is headed to destroy Earth. As the ship is being worked on, the officers get heavy debriefing, and some of the crew gets much needed R and R. Skippy is creating a cult following among the humans but he is following the secretive government meetings too. It appears that Bishop will not be asked to lead the next mission and the other decisions don’t look too good to Bishop and the former crew.

In the nick of time Skippy manages to round up a bare crew of former members of the Merry Band of Pirates and a handful of new recruits who volunteer to sacrifice their Earthly lives to take control of the ship and head out to face the enemy. Bishop and the makeshift crew have to face the impossible again – find a way to stop the two vastly superior enemy ships that are heading to attack Earth. Bishop and Skippy trade awful insults (to the point of “Enough, already!”) while waiting for “the monkey” to come up with a beyond logic idea to meet the mission.

This is the seventh book in this serries and I am still enjoying it. Yes, the insults are becoming almost unpleasant and thereby losing some of the humor. Still, I enjoyed the energy, the camaraderie, and the tricks pulled out of the hat to meet their goal. I suppose it makes sense that the ship commander has to remain apart and alone but it would be nice to see something new develop for Bishop. I will continue in the series and recommend this to fans of military space opera.

Audio Notes: R.C. Bray is the voice of these characters. The variety of accents is remarkable. His narration absolutely adds to my enjoyment of the story.

Source: 7/31/2022 July Audible Credit. This qualifies for 2023TBR and 2023Audiobook goals.

Audible Book Report: Purgatory's Shore, Artillerymen, Book 1 by Taylor Anderson

I'm glad I got into this as I found it engaging.
Purgatory's Shore
Artillerymen, Book 1
By: Taylor Anderson
Narrated by: PJ Ochlan

Length: 22 hrs and 19 mins
Release date: 09-21-21
Publisher: Penguin Audio
Genre: Alternate History, Military History
My Rating: 4.25 of 5.0 Overall; Story 4.25; Narration 4.5.

Publisher's Summary
On their way to fight in the Mexican-American War, a group of American soldiers are swept away to a strange and deadly alternate Earth in this thrilling new adventure set in the world of the New York Times best-selling Destroyermen series.
The United States, 1847. A disparate group of young American soldiers are bound to join General Winfield Scott's campaign against Santa Anna at Veracruz during the Mexican-American War. They never arrive.
Or rather...they arrive somewhere else.
The untried, idealistic soldiers are mostly replacements, really; a handful of infantry, artillery, dragoons, and a few mounted riflemen with no unified command. And they've been shipwrecked on a terrible different Earth full of monsters and unimaginable enemies.
Major Lewis Cayce, late of the Third US "Flying" Artillery, must unite these men to face their fears and myriad threats, armed with little more than flintlock muskets, a few pieces of artillery, and a worldview that spiritually and culturally rebels against virtually everything they encounter. It will take extraordinary leadership and a cadre of equally extraordinary men and women to mold frightened troops into an effective force, make friends with other peoples the evil Holy Dominion would eradicate, and reshape their "manifest destiny" into a cause they can all believe in and fight for.
For only together will they have any hope of survival.
©2021 Taylor Anderson (P)2021 Penguin Audio

Review:
I enjoyed the 15 books of the original Destroyermen series. This story picks up in the same alternate world but a century earlier, telling the story of American, and other, artillerymen who find themselves in an unfamiliar world with lots of unexpected people and beasts.

Major Cayce and his troops are expecting to be delivered to Vera Cruz on a battered whaler. Instead the ship and men are swept up in a storm and deposited far from the water in a strange land. The land is similar to the Yucatan Peninsula but not the same. This ‘new world’ is full of dinosaurs (not recognized as such since the word did not come into use until 1942) including avian beasts, raptors and even T-Rex. It is clear that these beasts are able to ravage the societies that live on the land but the military men who land here are able to fight the dinosaurs with their guns which are better than anything anyone else has.

As surprising as the beastly creatures, Major Cayce and his men are alarmed to meet ‘indian’ natives and a leader who looks like an upright cat that speaks English. Some would consider the cat-creatures as demons, until they learn about the horrible blood Dominions who are enslaving the people to either follow their horrible religion and/or die a painful death, which to them is glory.

The story started slowly. I had started it a month or so ago but didn’t get engaged. This week I got passed that slow start and was glad to become engaged in the creative world. Not only does the author provide action encounters with beasts and strange, intelligent races, Anderson also provides interesting details regarding weapons and military tactics. Another element of interest is the dilemma of a female posing as a soldier and learning to work together with the enemy, Mexicans. The characters grew on me and I did care how they survived in the battles. I recommend this to fans of alternate history and military history.

Audio Notes: PJ Ochlan does a good job with the voices and the energy of the story. Ochlan narrated the last book of the Destroyermen series so I had gotten used to his voice. That may have made it easier for me to accept the narration in this series. I enjoyed this audio experience.

Source: 2/5/22 Audible January Credit. This qualifies for 2023TBR, 2023Audiobook, and 2023Location goals.

Audio Book Review: Moonshine & Magic by Bella Falls

This was a fun, easy listen which I really enjoyed.
Moonshine & Magic
Written By: Bella Falls
Narrated By: Johanna Parker

Duration: 7 h 59 min
Release date: 07-18-18
Publisher: Tantor Audio
Genre: Cozy Mystery, Paranormal, Magic
My Rating: 4.25 of 5.0 Overall; Story 4.25; Narration 4.5.

Summary
Magic and mystery are only part of the Southern Charms of Honeysuckle Hollow . . .
Charli Goodwin doesn't expect her homecoming to go without a hitch-after all, she skipped town, leaving her fiance and family without a clue as to where she was going or why. Now that she's ready to return home, she plans to lay low and sip some of her Nana's sweet tea while the town gossips come out to play.
Unfortunately, on her first night back, Charli discovers the body of her crazy great-uncle, and suddenly finds herself at the center of a mystery that threatens the very foundations of Honeysuckle Hollow and the safety of every paranormal citizen in it-starting with Charli herself.
With the clock ticking, will Charli's special magical talents be enough to save not only the town but also her own life?

Review:
Charli Goodwin is returning home on her father’s rebuilt motorcycle until the engine dies as she hits the wards of her magical community, Honeysuckle Hollow. Charli expects some second glances, if not hostility, after having left without explanation a year or so before. She didn’t exactly plan it, but she is just in time for the community’s annual celebrations. After getting help from a gnome and ‘fairy godmother’, the first person Charli runs into is her quirky great-uncle. Uncle Tipper is rather paranoid, but he holds Charli as one of his favorite people.

Charli arrives at the evening festivities to witness the engagement of her former fiancé to a not so pleasant cousin. As Charli backs away to go home to Nana, Uncle Tipper’s crow, Biddy, directs Charli off the path to find Uncle Tipper dead. Now Charli, believed to be the last to speak with Tipper, is caught up trying to solve the mystery of his death and trying to find a cure for the curse that she stumbled into. There are many questions. Who will benefit by Tipper’s death since it will open a seat on the town governing board which is filled by someone from each founding family? Where is Uncle Tipper’s Last Will? Who was he cavorting with before his death? Charli has special skills that can help with some of the questions if she can survive the curse long enough to save the town from a group seeking development and finding the cure to save her own life.

While dealing with these issues, Charli finds herself getting attention from the current investigation Warden (detective), her Nana’s were shifter handyman, and even her former fiancé. The confusion of her emotions only adds to the strain of the curse that is sucking her magical energy.

I loved the quirky characters, including some villainous relatives. The story is an easy listen with some good twists. This is my second book by Bella Falls and I do like her different characters and light mystery plotlines. I recommend this to fans of magical, cozy mystery.

Audio Notes: I quite like Johanna Parker as a narrator. I have missed her voice since finishing the Sookie Stackhouse series so I am always glad to find books she has narrated. Her voice fits this type of fantasy and charm. The narration increased my enjoyment of the story.

Source: 7/29/2021 Audiobooks.com 2 for 1 Credit Deal. This qualifies for 2023TBR, 2023Audiobook, and I am counting it toward a 2023Time of Day (or night) goal.

Audio Book Review: Extreme Medical Services Box Set Vol 1 - 3 by Jamie Davis

I enjoyed book 1 although it isn't exactly gripping.
Extreme Medical Services Box Set Vol 1 - 3
Written by Jamie Davis
Narrated by Roberto Scarlato

Run time: 20 hours and 16 minutes
Release Date: August 15, 2018
Publisher: MedicCast Productions
Genre: Fantasy, Paranormal, Supernatural, Urban Fantasy
My Rating: 4.0 of 5.0 Overall; Story 4.0; Narration 4.0.

Publisher Description
Monsters, Paramedics, and Street Medicine.
New paramedic Dean Flynn is fresh out of the academy. When he gets assigned to the unknown backwater ambulance Station U, he wonders what he did wrong. Then Dean learns that his patients aren’t your normal 911 callers.
Dean and his partner Brynne Garvey serve the creatures of myth and legend living alongside their normal human neighbors in Elk City. With patients that are vampires, werewolves, fairies and more, will Dean survive his first days on the new job? Will his patients?
Not all is well on the streets of Elk City either, and some humans are striking out at their mythical neighbors. Dean soon finds himself in the middle of a series of attacks on his patients, attacks that implicate a former member of Station U.
Come along on this ride with “Extreme Medical Services” - part one of the series by the same name, a paranormal medical thrill-ride with the paramedics of Elk City. Described by one fan as “like Grimm, but

with paramedics” this book is brought to you by best-selling author and real-life paramedic Jamie Davis. He crafts a book called an accurate, interesting, & fabulous page-turner.
Jump on the ambulance with Dean, Brynne and the rest of the team.

Review:
Dean Flynn is excited to be a new paramedic as he graduates from the academy. He knows he is a top student and expects the pick of assignments. He is therefore surprised when he is assigned to Station U, an unknown backwater ambulance station. It only takes a day to learn that Station U has “Unusual” 911 callers living in Elk City. They are creatures of myth and legend including a werewolf (struggling to maintain human form), a water fairy, a vampire (who reacts badly to sunscreen and glitter and has a jealous girlfriend), a siren (with a mesmerizing voice), and a deteriorating zombie.

Dean is trying to cope with all the newness he is experiencing and then he and his partner learn that someone is targeting the Unusual patients. The likely attacker clearly has information about the paranormal community which implies it may be a former employee.

The creatures are ‘fun’ and Dean’s reactions interesting. The mysterious attacker doesn’t stay hidden too long… at least from Dean. But there may be a larger group behind the attacks who will endanger Dean and his Station U teammates. These features provide engagement. There are flaws that detract a bit including too much telling and repetition of mundane actions. There is also a lot of diagnosis and treatment detail which is realistic and perhaps engaging, but a bit much for those of us who are mostly ignorant in the medical field. I think the telling instead of showing and repeated details made this a bit flat for me.

I am glad to have the boxed set, but I am not rushing back to continue the series as I like to vary my reading. I would recommend this to fans of paranormal stories and especially if the reader likes the medical input.

Audio Notes: Roberto Scarlato did a good job with the narration. He provides entertaining voices and does the best to give more life to the flat dialog and reading portions. I am glad I have the stories in audio format so the narration can add to the reading.

Source: 4/23/2020 Chirp $2.99. This qualifies for 2023TBR and 2023Audiobook goals.

Audible Book Review: Along Came Holly by Codi Hall

This is a fun (if steamy) romcom.

Along Came Holly
By: Codi Hall
Narrated by: Veronica Worthington , Skyler Hutchinson

Series: A Mistletoe Romance, Book 3
Length: 9 hrs and 24 mins
Release date: 11-17-22
Publisher: Audible Originals
Categories: Romance, Contemporary
My Rating: 4.0 of 5.0 Overall; Story 4.0; Narration 4.0.

About This Audible Original
How can Holly Winters, the Queen of Christmas Cheer, stand to be neighbors with her town’s resident Scrooge?
Holly owns the merriest holiday shop on Main Street. But right next door is the hardware store run by Declan Gallagher, the grinchiest man in all of Mistletoe, Idaho. With Christmas fast approaching, the small-town rivals engage in an all-out prank war, sending each other not-so-friendly season’s greetings.
But when Holly’s ambitious plan to win the town’s Festival of Lights falls apart, she has no one else to call but her handy sworn-nemesis. They say Christmas is a time for miracles, after all. As Holly and Declan work together, they slowly warm up to each other. They might just end up spending Christmas Eve cuddling by the fire.
Along Came Holly is the perfect enemies-to-lovers rom-com sure to warm hearts this holiday season. Curl up with a beau and a cup of hot cocoa and listen to the latest in A Mistletoe Romance series by author Codi Hall.
©2022 Codi Gary (P)2022 Audilble Originals, LLC

Review:
Holly is one of the Winter family who are a close family who enjoy Christmas. Holly herself is ‘Queen of Christmas Cheer’ and is at odds with her shop neighbor, Declan, who is a grinch in their charming town of Mistletoe, Idaho. Holly loves to play Christmas music but Declan bangs on the wall to get her to turn it off. Annoyed by his attitude, Holly sets off a prank war with Declan giving as good as he gets.

Holly is always an active participant in the town’s Festival of Lights. This year the company that is supposed to do the set up calls out sick. No one else has time to take on the job so her last resort is to ask handy man Declan to help put up her many decorations/lights.

Declan is a man with a chip on his shoulder. His mom left when he turned 18 and Declan blames her for tearing apart the family. He loved art and planned to open a studio after college but instead returned home to manage his father’s hardware store when his father broke his hip. Now there are other reasons Declan stays but he isn’t sharing his history with anyone. When it comes to helping Holly with her lights, Declan thinks he can handle it alone. He soon realizes he really can’t manage without help.

I enjoyed the clear tension between Holly and Declan that developed into a more than a light friendship. The bantering and family relationships are fun and engaging. I didn’t necessarily care for the blatant sexual innuendos but that didn’t overcome the fun in the story. This showed as only available until 3/31 so I chose to read it even though it is book 3 in the series and clearly a Christmas story. I’m glad I listened to it and will look forward to the first two books when I’m ready for more Christmas reading. I recommend this to fans of contemporary romance.

Audio Notes: Veronica Worthington, Skyler Hutchinson do a fairly nice job rotating the narration between the primary characters. My only complaint on the narration was that the male voice was joltingly loud. This did distract a little initially, but I adjusted for it. I was still glad to listen to the audio while it was available.

Source: 12/3/2022 Audible Plus Catalog. This qualifies for 2023TBR and 2023Audiobook goals.

Audible Book Review: A Useful Woman by Darcie Wilde

I did like this Victorian mystery.
A Useful Woman
A Rosalind Thorne Mystery, Book 1
By: Darcie Wilde
Narrated by: Sarah Nichols

Series: Rosalind Thorne Mysteries, Book 1
Length: 10 hrs and 3 mins
Release date: 01-10-17
Publisher: Blackstone Audio, Inc.
Genre: Historical Mystery, Woman Sleuth
My Rating: 4.0 of 5.0 Overall; Story 4.25; Narration 4.0.

Publisher's Summary
Inspired by the novels of Jane Austen, this new mystery series set in 19th-century London introduces the charming and resourceful Rosalind Thorne, a woman privy to the secrets of high society - including who among them is capable of murder.
The daughter of a baronet and minor heiress, Rosalind Thorne was nearly ruined after her father abandoned the family. To survive in the only world she knew, she began to manage the affairs of some of London society's most influential women, who rely on her wit and discretion. So when artistocratic wastrel Jasper Aimesworth is found dead in London's most exclusive ballroom, Almack's, Rosalind must use her skills and connections to uncover the killer from a list of suspects that includes Almack's powerful patronesses and her former suitor Devon Winterbourne, now Lord Casselmain.
Torn between her old love and a growing attraction to a compelling Bow Street runner, Rosalind must unravel the mysteries surrounding Jasper's death, and the mysteries of her own heart as well.
©2016 Darcie Wilde (P)2017 Blackstone Audio, Inc.

Review:
Rosalind Thorne is the daughter of a baronet and minor heiress who is fully part of London society until her father abandoned the family leaving her mother and Rosalind to face the debtors. Rather than retire from society, Rosalind makes herself a ‘useful’ woman by helping to manage affairs of society’s most influential women, making their parties successful, helping them to avoid scandal, and guiding opinion through manipulating news and gossip.

While Rosalind is helping her godmother, one of the patronesses of Almack’s, Rosalind peaks into the ballroom at Almack’s and finds aristocrat Jasper Aimesworth dead below the music balcony. The Almack’s patronesses are quick to label the event as a tragic accident but Rosalind suspects something more nefarious. Rosalind herself may be suspected as is the young man’s best friend, Rosalind’s former suitor, now Lord Casselmain.

Casselmain is about to become engaged to the dead man’s sister who usually has no time for Rosalind. The sister, convinced this was no accident, seeks Rosalind’s help to find the killer. Rosalind is hoping to protect Casselmain while agreeing to help the dogged Bow Street detective weave the narrow paths of society. Day by day Rosalind realizes that everyone seems to be hiding secrets that she needs to break through to find the truth.

I liked Rosalind’s character, particularly for standing firm and persevering through traumatic and difficult circumstances. This wasn’t as light as some historical mysteries, but my attention was engaged by the good twists as Rosalind uncovers clues and secrets to discover motives and reveal the killer. The story is rich with detail of the era and navigating the haut ton. I also like that there was no sex but just a nice potential for closer relationships for Rosalind. I will look to read (listen to) more in the series. I recommend this to fans of Victorian mystery.

Audio Notes: Sarah Nichols provided good accents although the voices of male and female could have been more distinct. She did manage to convey the heroine’s aside thoughts fairly clearly. Audio makes it easier for me to get through the story considering my work and life schedule, so I was okay with the narration.

Source: December 2021 Audible Plus Catalog. This qualifies for 2023TBR, 2023Audiobook, and 2023Alphabet goal.

Audible Book Review: One Heart to Win by Johanna Lindsey

I mostly enjoyed this western romance.
One Heart to Win
By: Johanna Lindsey
Narrated by: Meredith Mitchell

Series: Callahan-Warren, Book 1
Length: 10 hrs and 25 mins
Release date: 06-11-13
Publisher: Blackstone Audio, Inc.
Genre: Historical Fiction, Romance, Western
My Rating: 4.0 of 5.0 Overall; Story 4.0; Narration 4.0.

Publisher's Summary
Johanna Lindsey, the number-one New York Times best-selling author, presents a passionate novel of hidden identities, family secrets, and love that transcends a 50-year feud set in the 1880s in the majestic ranchland of the Montana territory.
Some young ladies marry for money and social standing, a few lucky ones marry for love - but Tiffany Warren is marrying to end a feud. Honoring her mother’s promise, Tiffany reluctantly travels west to meet her estranged father and his enemy’s eldest son, rancher Hunter Callahan. Once the Warrens and the Callahans are united by marriage, both clans will stop squabbling over a disputed strip of land.
In the chaos of a train robbery Tiffany seizes a golden opportunity. By assuming the identity of her father’s new housekeeper she can live with the father she never knew and assess his true character, as well as that of the neighboring cowboy to whom she is betrothed. But, too late, Tiffany discovers that the rivalry between the Warrens and the Callahans has escalated when the Callahans steal the Warrens’ housekeeper as soon as she steps off the train!
Now, Tiffany, who is pretending to be Jennifer Fleming, finds herself living in the enemy camp, under the same roof as her fiancé. All too soon she learns her intended is a handsome, sweet-talking charmer whom she has to fight off because he can’t keep his eyes - or his hands - off Jennifer. After Tiffany’s charade is exposed she refuses to marry Hunter to end the feud. As Hunter goes about claiming his rightful bride-to-be, he knows that although he loves two women - proper, elegant Tiffany as well as spunky, passionate Jennifer - he has only one heart to win.
©2013 Johanna Lindsey (P)2013 AudioGO

Review:
Tiffany Warren was born in Montana but raised by her mother in New York. Her brothers came to visit her, but her father never did. Now that Tiffany is 18, her mother is sending her to Montana to live with her father and meet the man they arranged for her to marry years before. Her mother made the marriage arrangements right before leaving Montana as a promise to stop the feud between the Warren family and their neighbors, the Callahans. Tiffany doesn’t really want to see the father she believes abandoned her, and she isn’t too keen on marrying a cowboy. Her mother promises Tiffany that she can come home if she meets the man and decides after two months not to marry him.

As Tiffany and her maid travel west, she meets a young woman who is going to the Warrens’ household as their new housekeeper. When the train is stopped due to a robbery, the housekeeper, Jennifer, chooses to return home, and Tiffany decides to take her place so she might meet her father without him knowing. In a twist, when Tiffany and her maid arrive at the town of their destination, she is approached by two men who ask her to come to the Callahan ranch instead of the Warren ranch.

Tiffany gets to meet her handsome and charming would be husband, Hunter Callahan. As the supposed housekeeper, the senior Callahan tells Tiffany she has to cook until she can find a new cook. That is on top of trying to get more help to clean the house that has been neglected while the mistress of the house has been bedridden. Tiffany doesn’t know how to cook or clean but she has enough courage to try.

Tiffany begins a tentative friendship with Hunter while seeking to avoid his bodyguard who appears to be a dangerous gunslinger. When there is an attack on the Callahan ranch and in town against Hunter, the Callahans are quick to suspect the Warrens. Tiffany struggles to understand why the families continue to feud. Tiffany’s charade is bound to be exposed with her brothers in town hearing the rumor of a new housekeeper at the Callahan ranch. How will her family and the Callahan family react when they find out who she really is? And what about the secret that her mother has kept all these years?

I wasn’t sure at first if I would like Tiffany’s character but I learned to appreciate her perseverance and willingness to work to met her goals. Hunter is an attractive, charming, good-humored man who is hard not to like. I didn’t like that he didn’t keep his hands off the 'housekeeper' even as he anticipated the arrival of his arranged bride. Although he is also willing to do the right thing, I didn’t quite care for that sexual looseness in the story. The mother’s secrets added to the interest of the story. All in all, I enjoyed the twists, the romance, and the resolution. Readers who enjoy some sex in their historical fiction might enjoy this one.

Audio Notes: I wasn’t captured by the narration by Meredith Mitchell but it was acceptable. I was glad to listen because it moves my reading along more quickly.

Source: 9/1/2021 Audible Plus Catalog. This qualifies for 2023TBR, 2023Audiobook, 2023Alphabet, and 2023Number goals.

Audible Book Review: Junkyard Pirate by Jamie McFarlene

This was fun even if you have to stretch belief.

Junkyard Pirate
By: Jamie McFarlane
Narrated by: Mikael Naramore

Series: Junkyard Pirate, Book 1 (4 books)
Length: 10 hrs
Release date: 12-31-19
Publisher: Fickle Dragon Publishing
Genre: Adventure, Alien, First Contact, Military, Pirate, Space
My Rating: 4.25 of 5.0 Overall; Story 4.25; Narration 4.25.

Publisher's Summary
Knocking at death’s door. Bargaining for a second chance. Seems like a heck of a way to find out about an alien invasion....
Vietnam vet Albert Jenkins is battling a bulging waistline and a passion for drink. So when a towering pile of scrap rocket parts falls and crushes the stubborn curmudgeon, he thinks it’s finally the end. But just as he’s about to take one final breath, a snarky alien parasite offers him a deal: His life in return for sharing his body.
With a little coaxing from his new pop-culture-loving inner resident, AJ’s broken carcass improves so much that even an old flame is impressed. But his bright outlook fizzles when he discovers he's at ground zero of a galactic conspiracy to strip Earth of precious resources humans don't even know exist.
Can the unlikely partners join forces and use AJ's rusty military skills to raise the alarm? Or, will the alien invaders put him down once and for all?
Junkyard Pirate is the first book in an imaginative space opera series. If you like grizzled soldiers, clever twists and turns, and intergalactic tactical pairings, then you’ll love Jamie McFarlane’s fast-paced alien adventure.
Buy Junkyard Pirate to boot the invaders back to where they came from today!
©2019 Fickle Dragon Publishing LLC (P)2019 Fickle Dragon Publishing LLC

Review:
Vietnam veteran, Albert, better known as AJ, is a stubborn curmudgeon in his 70s who is winding down his life with food and alcohol. He runs a junkyard and occasionally gets loads from NASA that includes some good parts. His latest purchase is a huge pile of scrap rocket parts. When his dog, Maxie, continually barks at the tower, Albert steps out and gets caught under a slide of the rocket parts. He expects that he will die under the crush and thinks he is hallucinating a tiny alien who offers to save his life if he will share his body. What does he have to lose? He gives permission before he passes out.

When he wakes up, he learns his best friend, Darnell, got him to the hospital. The doctor recognized her surgery work from the Vietnam days and is surprised that AJ isn’t paralyzed. Meanwhile he sees an 8” woman on the doctor’s shoulder and realizes he has to get out of the hospital before the doctor discovers the alien that is restoring his body. Doctor Amanda Jayne is reluctant to let AJ go and soon starts visiting him at home to follow-up trying to figure out what is going on with his body.

Beverly, the alien, explains to AJ that she and her crew were on a reconnaissance mission to gather information about an enemy alien people on Earth. The Korgul are parasitic aliens controlling millions of humans while they mine special materials unknown to the humans. Beverly and her friends need permission to take over a body but the Korgul don’t ask permission. Beverly needs AJ’s help to get to a spaceship they can use but it will make him a target for the enemy.

Sure enough, strangers soon arrive at AJ's home and he is scrambling to escape flying bullets. AJ gets the help of a few friends including a new pet, who share their bodies with Beverly’s friends. Now the handful of old military companions set off to steal the spaceship and maybe save the planet.

This is a fun story. AJ is not a classy character but very much a suggestive old man who is surprised and pleased to have his body returning to youthful vigor. I enjoyed Beverly’s character and the other friends add to the mix too. There were close calls and escapes in preposterous situations, but these allow the story to move forward. The story concludes this episode but leaves the heroes/heroines waiting for the next step in saving Earth. I recommend this to readers who would enjoy fun, sort of warped humor, and military to space adventure.

Audio Notes: Mikael Naramore does a good job of narrating the story. The voices are distinct, and the snark appropriately conveyed. The narration added to my enjoyment of the story.

Source: July 2021 Audible $5.00 Sale. This qualifies for 2023TBR, 2023Audiobook, 2023Alphabet, and 2023Occupation goals.

#NetGalley Audio Book Review: Murder at an Irish Castle (Irish Castle Mystery #1) by Ellie Brannigan

I really enjoyed this light mystery and hope to continue in the series.

Murder at an Irish Castle (Irish Castle Mystery #1)
by Ellie Brannigan
Narrated by: Traci Odom

Series: Irish Castle Mystery, Book 1
Length: 9 hrs and 17 mins
Release date: 02-07-23
Publisher: Dreamscape Media
Genre: Cozy Mystery, Irish, Thriller & Suspense
My Rating: 4.25 of 5.0 Overall; Story 4.25; Narration 4.25.

Fans of Hannah Dennison and Carlene O’Connor’s mysteries are in for a treat with Ellie Brannigan’s captivating debut cozy mystery, complete with a sharp and endearing protagonist.
Rodeo Drive bridalwear designer Rayne McGrath expected her thirtieth birthday to start with a power lunch and end with champagne, lobster, and a diamond engagement ring from her fiancé. Instead, flat-broke and busted, she’s on a plane to Ireland where she discovers that she’s inherited a run-down family castle. Uncle Nevin’s will contains a few caveats—for example, if Rayne doesn’t turn McGrath Castle around within a year, the entire village will be financially destroyed.
With the fate of the town in her hands, and rumors that Rayne’s uncle’s death wasn’t actually an accident, she can’t possibly go back to her old life in L.A. As the devastating truth about her uncle dawns on Rayne, it’s not just her reputation that’s on the line, it’s her life.
Featuring a sharp and endearing protagonist, a colorful and quirky locale, and replete with twists and turns befitting an old Irish village, the first in Brannigan’s mystery series transports us to a milieu as romantic as it is deadly.

Review:
Rayne is a Rodeo Drive bridalwear designer and business owner. She is eager to celebrate her 30th birthday with her partner, along with a possible loan for business growth, and maybe even an engagement ring. Instead, she ends up without a fiancé and without inventory. Flat broke she is off to Ireland (tickets paid by her mother) to respond to a lawyer's call that her uncle has died, and she is to appear for the reading of the Will. Rayne is surprised to learn that she has inherited the declining family castle, with its handful of employees and surrounding village to care for. More alarmingly, she has to stay for a year and turn the castle into a profitable endeavor. And this has to be done with her newly met and very bitter and antagonistic cousin, Ciara, as manager.

As though Rayne doesn’t have enough to digest and deal with, Ciara, an illegitimate daughter, is convinced that her father was murdered rather than dying in a tractor accident. Rayne begins to juggle the issues of a deteriorating castle and needs to locate her Uncle’s bookkeeping records to find out the true state of affairs. It isn’t pretty. But it also leads to s mysterious list that makes her agree with Ciara that her Uncle was murdered. Now the at-odds cousins need to work together to figure out who had motive and opportunity. Lucky for Rayne, her Uncle’s young, untrained dog has some clues to share.

I enjoyed the mix of distinct characters, and the quiet persistence Rayne employs to face the problems before her. The local detective seems to be one step behind but Rayne uncovers the clues bit by bit. I picked this story for the dog on the cover, the castle and Irish setting. I was totally satisfied by the mystery with its twists and turns. I do hope there will be more in the series. I recommend this to fans of easy mystery.

Audio Notes: Traci Odom does a fine job with the narration. I liked her voices for the different characters and she carried the tone and energy of the book. The narration added to my enjoyment of the story.

Source: NetGalley 2023. This qualifies for 2023TBR, 2023Audiobook, 2023NetGalley, 2023Alphabet, and 2023Location goals.

Audible Book Review: Kingdoms of Sorrow, Catalyst, Book 2 by JK Franks

This was an engaging continuation of the survival problems in post-apocalyptic America.
Kingdoms of Sorrow
Catalyst, Book 2
By: JK Franks
Narrated by: Steven Varnum

Series: Catalyst, Book 2
Length: 15 hrs and 15 mins
Release date: 07-18-17
Publisher: J K Franks
Genre: Adventure, Genetic Engineering, Post-Apocalyptic
My Rating: 4.25 of 5.0 Overall; Story 4.25; Narration 4.25.

Publisher's Summary
The fight for survival continues in book 2 of the Catalyst series.
A murderous army, an unspeakable plague and an approaching hurricane. One man will risk it all to save his community. Cities, nations, and governments lie in ruins and billions have perished. In the wake of a global apocalypse, survival has become a way of life in a world that seems intent on wiping them all out.
Among the survivors are Scott Montgomery and his friends on the Gulf Coast of Mississippi. They have struggled to hang on better than most. But growing threats - both man-made and natural - leave their chances on a razor's edge. Now with the help of uncertain alliances they must face a new danger none of them saw coming. This group, "The Messengers", are like a biblical plague, destroying everything - and everyone - in their path.
Time is short for the survivors and another grim new discovery means the Messengers may not be the only thing they should fear.
Don’t miss out on the second installment of the best-selling Catalyst series.
©2017 J K Franks (P)2017 J K Franks

Review:
This book picks up from book 1, Catalyst Downward Cycle. The story primarily follows three groups in the survival struggles. It has been five months or so since the solar flare took out the electrical grid and left Americans trying to survive pre-industrial conditions and marauding bands of criminals. Scott and Todd are in Harris Springs, Mississippi, on the Gulf of Mexico on the cruise ship that has been turned into a refuge home for 200 or so people seeking to rebuild community.

Jack, aka Preacher, is a former convict who is out on a working boat with four other men. Their job has been to forage supplies and trade with smaller farms or communities along the water ways. Things had been going well until they have to face pirate raids. Then they learn about the butchery by a large, supposedly religious group known as the Messengers. This cultish group is sweeping across the south giving people the choice to join and serve or die.

Skybox 5 is a new character. He is a special forces paramilitary operative in a very secretive group called the P-Guard. Before the electric went out, he and his team were on mission in Pakistan. They were tasked with retrieving an crucial scientist/virologist who was working in a remote university lab. Before they could get to the target, something went wrong and a deadly virus was released. Although there were efforts to contain the virus, the efforts failed miserably. Skybox is the only man who comes out alive as he is apparently immune. Now he is directed to get to the coast so he can be taken to scientists in America who can test his blood for a vaccine. Skybox ends up at a secret location that happens to include a personal friend of Scott's niece. Scott is recruited by an opposing military group to try to retrieve Skybox.

I like these characters and the mostly realistic struggles and battles. There is good character development and better action. The cult group is scary and adds additional tension and suspense. I will be looking to get the third book in the series and a side story too. Reading book 1 may not be necessary, but I think it provides better background to the characters and events. I recommend this to readers who enjoy post-apocalyptic survival stories.

Audio Notes: Steven Varnum does a good job with the narration. He delivers good character voices and I thought his energy input was better on this book than the first. I am glad to listen to this on audio.

Source: 3-3-2022 Audible Sale Purchase $3.74. This qualifies for 2023TBR, 2023Audiobook, and 2023Alphabet goals.

#NetGalley Audio Book Review: The Last Saxon King by Andrew Varga

I liked the history and mostly enjoyed this story (although there are young teen "flaws" IMHO).

The Last Saxon King
A Jump in Time Novel, Book One
By: Andrew Varga
Narrated by: Mark Sanderlin

Series: A Jump in Time Novel, Book 1
Length: 8 hrs and 49 mins
Release date: 03-07-23
Publisher: Imbrifex Books
Genre: Adventure, Teen and YA, Time Travel
My Rating: 4.0 of 5.0 Overall; Story 4.0; Narration 4.0.

Publisher's Summary
One jump to save all time.
Life is progressing normally for sixteen-year-old Dan Renfrew when he accidentally transports himself to England in the year 1066. He soon realizes that he’s trapped there, and that’s not his only astonishing discovery. Dan learns that he’s descended from a long line of time jumpers—secret heroes who travel to the past and resolve glitches in the time stream that threaten to alter subsequent history. The only way Dan can return home is to set history back on its proper course in the Anglo-Saxon age. This is no easy task. A Viking horde is ravaging England in the north while a Norman army threatens to invade from the south. In between and desperately struggling to hold on to his throne is Harold Godwinson, the newly crowned English king. Dan is fighting to ensure that events play out correctly when he finds himself plunged into an even more lethal conflict. To save history, Dan must battle a band of malevolent time jumpers whose lust for wealth and power threatens the entire future of the world.
©2023 Andrew Varga (P)2023 Imbrifex Books

Review:
Sixteen-year-old Dan is home schooled by his professor father who has him studying all sorts of history. Dan has been sent out of the house so his father could have a private meeting at home. When Dan returns home a little earlier than expected, he finds his father in a physical sword fight. Dan stands in shock as his father tosses him a strange metal baton and tells him to “Run!” And then tells him to “say the rhyme” he has been taught since childhood. Dan doesn’t understand but will obey his father rather than give the device to this threatening man.

Dan is whisked off and finds himself in a strange land where his phone has no service. He is shouting for help when a young ‘Robin Hood’ steps out of the woods and tells him to be quiet. Sam tells Dan that he is in England in the year 1066. Sam explains that they are rare descendants of time jumpers. Sam had a brother trained for the task but Dan’s father didn’t tell him anything about the process and duties. Apparently, the time jumpers have to fix the time glitch and then can return home.

Dan isn’t physically trained but he has the historical knowledge to know the glitch when he realizes the situation. Now he has to step out and find a way to reach an Anglo Saxon king to give him battle advise. He doesn’t even have Sam to help although Sam will be hiding in the woods nearby.

I enjoyed the detailed setting and battle history and the adventures that Dan muddles through. I wasn’t crazy about the teen hormones acting up but I suppose that is realistic, especially for a boy who is probably considered a brainiac and has little social interaction at home. This also fits for the young teen target audience. On the other hand, I loved how Dan made friends along his journey and was loyal to fight for and with them. This is a fun listen and I recommend it to young teens and fans of history.

Audio Notes: Mark Sanderlin does a wonderful job with the narration. He is able to provide clear voices with distinct accents. I was glad to have the opportunity to listen to this in audio.

Source: 2022 NetGalley choice. This qualifies for 2023TBR, 2023Audiobook, 2023NetGalley, and 2023Occupation goals.

Audible Book Review: Introducing Agatha Raisin: The Quiche of Death and The Vicious Vet By: M. C. Beaton

These amateur mystery stories were fun. (It is also an “I” title and has an Occupation in the title.)
Introducing Agatha Raisin: The Quiche of Death and The Vicious Vet
By: M. C. Beaton
Narrated by: Penelope Keith, Diana Bishop

Series: Agatha Raisin Mysteries, Book 1-2
Length: 11 hrs and 39 mins
Release date: 08-25-16
Language: English
Publisher: Blackstone Audio, Inc.
Genre: Amateur Detective, Cozy Mystery, Women Sleuth
My Rating: 4.25 of 5.0 Overall; Story 4.25; Narration 4.25.

Publisher's Summary
Agatha Raisin and the Quiche of Death
Putting all her eggs in one basket, Agatha Raisin gives up her successful PR firm, sells her London flat, and samples a taste of early retirement in the quiet village of Carsely. Bored, lonely, and used to getting her way, she enters a local baking contest. Despite the fact that Agatha has never baked a thing in her life, she is sure the pie she has secretly bought from an upper-crust London quicherie will make her the toast of the town. But her recipe for social advancement sours when the judge not only snubs her entry―but falls over dead!
Agatha Raisin and the Vicious Vet
Agatha Raisin hasn't quite adjusted to the slow pace of village life, or to the failure of her overtures to her handsome neighbor, James Lacey. Since the new vet in town is young and good looking, Agatha's perfectly healthy tabby endures a nasty physical exam in the name of romance. Unfortunately, his sacrifice is all for naught when the vet is soon found dead. The police call the death a freak accident, but Agatha convinces James that playing amateur detective might be fun. Unfortunately, just as curiosity killed the cat, Agatha's inept snooping is soon a motivation for murder.
©2016 M. C. Beaton (P)2016 Blackstone Audio, Inc.

Review:
Agatha Raisin and the Quiche of Death
Agatha Raisin sold her successful PR firm to fulfill a dream of retirement in the quiet English village, Carsely. She quickly learns that she is an outsider who doesn’t quite fit in. Agatha has made one friend with the local preacher’s wife who convinces her to join the ladies’ service group which meets to enjoy friendship and plan ways to raise money for good causes. In an effort to gain attention and approval, Agatha enters the club’s baking contest, where she tries to pass off a specialty quiche out of London as homemade. Her fraud may have gone unnoticed except that the clearly biased judge turns up dead the next morning after eating her left over quiche.

Agatha becomes friends with the young detective, Bill Wong, as he investigates the murder. Agatha is quick to suggest suspects, but she is also quick to run off to interview them herself. Wong tells her to stay away from the investigation but Agatha just can’t help herself. Of course, she keeps pushing until she places herself in the presence of the murderer.

Agatha Raisin and the Vicious Vet
Agatha is continuing to adjust to her life in a new, quieter community. Many of the ladies in town are interested in Agatha’s new next door neighbor, an attractive, single man, James. Agatha figures she has the advantage being next door but her interest turns into obsessive pursuit that send James hiding.

When a young good looking vet arrives in town, Agatha, and other ladies, turn their eyes to him. Agatha takes her new tabby cat for a visit only to find the vet rather rough on pet. But he does ask her out, giving her a boost of confidence. When the vet turns up dead, Agatha doesn’t think it was an accident. She soon sets off on her amateur sleuthing again, drawing James into the interviews and unauthorized investigations.

Agatha has a good eye for detail that helps her unravel clues. As in any good cozy, this gets her into trouble. I mostly enjoyed Agatha as a bright, business minded character. I say mostly because her chasing after the men in the second book became annoying to me. I like her friendship with Detective Bill Wong and her slowly growing friendship with others in the community. The mysteries are nicely plotted and made it fun to figure out the villains. I look forward to reading more in the series and I recommend this to fans of amateur, cozy mysteries.

Audio Notes: The stories were read by two different narrators, Penelope Keith and Diana Bishop. They both presented the stories with wonderful British flare and I really didn’t note the difference. I think they captured the main character well and I enjoyed both narrations. The audio enhanced my enjoyment of the stories.

Source: 7/19/2021 I picked these from the Audible Plus Catalog. This qualifies for 2023TBR, 2023Audiobook, 2023Alphabet, and Occupation goals.

Audible Book Review: Galactic Forge by Alex Guerra

This is an entertaining sci fi with action and a 'kidnapped' human caught up with an AI entity.

Galactic Forge
Galactic Forge Series, Book 1
By: Alex Guerra
Narrated by: Paul Heitsch

Series: Galactic Forge Series, Book 1
Length: 9 hrs and 8 mins
Release date: 02-19-19
Publisher: Podium Audio
Genre: First Contact, Military, Space Opera
My Rating: 4.25 of 5.0 Overall; Story 4.25; Narration 4.25.

Publisher's Summary
Former Marine Arthur Holland’s destiny begins when an aircraft crashes on his property in the mountains of Colorado. He moves to investigate and to help any survivors, but the closer he gets the less control he has of his movements.
An unknown force urges him to open the door of the mysterious craft, discovering the secret that lies within: a dead, alien pilot and a peculiar, otherworldly crystal. If that wasn’t enough, the crystal feels like it is alive. That’s when he hears a single word inside his mind: run.
An enemy vessel approaches overhead in pursuit of the downed ship, leaving Arthur little time to make his escape.
Guided by this strange voice, Art is propelled through a hidden portal, arriving somewhere unknown. On the other side of the galaxy, without a means of returning home, he has no choice but to move forward and help the crystal accomplish its mission: upgrade the ancient derelict ship, recruit new allies, and help the Galactic Conglomerate fight the Vael Empire.
It may be destiny that’s called him, but it’s the choices he makes that will forge his future.
©2018 Alex Guerra (P)2019 Podium Publishing

Review:
Arthur Holland is a former Marine running a car repair shop in Colorado. A strange aircraft crashes on his property and he is pulled to the crash to investigate. The closer he gets, the stronger the pull until he can’t control his own actions. He finds a dead alien pilot and takes a crystal from his hand. Next thing Arthur knows he is hearing a voice in his head telling him to “run!” The voice guides Arthur to a cave and a hidden portal that transports him to a strange, unknown place.

Arthur is in a closed room when he wakes up to learn he is in a spaceship on the other side of the galaxy. The crystal is an AI (Art names her Dotty) that begins to integrate with Art. She explains that she needs his help to find core drives for her ship so she will have power to continue. And, by the way, she doesn’t have the power to get him back home.

Art doesn’t have any choice but to go along with Dotty. As she hunts for power drives, they come across a young elfin looking woman who is under attack. Art rescues Seya and they proceed to a planet to allow her to reconnect with the Galactic forces. Soon Art finds himself in the middle of an intergalactic war between the Galactic allies and the Vael Empire. Art keeps getting hopeful that power cores will allow him to go home but then some other action is required. Step by step Art becomes a warrior and a hero, resulting in his new friends declaring that this is his destiny.

There were some unexplained matters that distracted me…particularly what happened to the enemy that chased the original spaceship to Colorado? Will that make earth a target for the Vael? And Art’s whining to get home is a little annoying. Other than that, I enjoyed the easy writing and the different character personalities. I liked the friendships that are developing for Art. I am engaged with the team matesand want to follow their next adventures as they face the enemy. I recommend this to fans of military space opera with a hero character.

Audio Notes: Paul Heitsch’s voice fits the story and the main character. I enjoyed the audio version of the story.

Source: February 2021 Audible Plus. This qualifies for 2023TBR, 2023Audiobook, and 2023Alphabet goals.

Audible Book Review: Exiled Fleet Publisher's Pack (Books 1-2) by Richard Fox

I did like the action in this space opera once I figured out who was who.
Exiled Fleet Publisher's Pack (Books 1-2)
By: Richard Fox
Narrated by: Mark Boyett

Series: Exiled Fleet, Book 1-2
Length: 14 hrs and 43 mins
Release date: 10-10-17
Publisher: Podium Audio
Genre: Adventure, Military, Space Opera
My Rating: 4.0 of 5.0 Overall; Story 4.0; Narration 4.0.

Publisher's Summary
Book 1: Albion Lost:
For centuries, the Daegon waited. They plotted. And now they are ready to strike.
The core worlds of settled space enjoy a tenuous peace, unaware and ill prepared for the threat building beyond the furthest reaches of humanity. The star kingdom of Albion stands as a shining light of justice and mercy in a harsh galaxy, and they will be the first to suffer the Daegon's fury.
Defying his low born status, and despite his self-doubt, Commodore Thomas Gage has risen through the ranks by sheer grit and determination, defending Albion from brutal pirate clans. And when the onslaught comes, Gage and his fleet may be Albion's last hope for freedom.

Book 2: The Long March:
Albion burns beneath Daegon rule.
Commodore Thomas Gage and his fleet, safeguarding the last of the Albion Royal Family, are on the run. Hunting them, a ruthless Daegon commander will stop at nothing to crush Albion's only remaining free force.
To find sanctuary beyond their enemy's reach, the battle-damaged fleet must cut through a hostile and dangerous region of space known as the Kigeli Nebula. But to secure passage, Gage must strike a deal with an old enemy who wants nothing more than to fulfill a vendetta and see the commodore dead.
Facing threats ahead, behind and from within, Gage must lead his fleet down the long march to freedom.
Exiled Fleet is a new military science-fiction series for fans of Honor Harrington, Earth Alone, and Old Man's War from the author of the best-selling Ember War Saga.
©2017 Podium Publishing; 2017 Richard Fox

Review:
The core worlds of settled space have mostly been experiencing peace so they aren’t prepared for war. Even though there are space pirates disrupting trade, the colonies are not even prepared to properly defend their planets.

No one remembers the Daegon and there is very little history, only myths, about them. They are an ancient alien race who have suddenly jumped into settled space attacking the main cities and announcing, “You will be ruled.”

Thomas Gage rose through the ranks to become a Commodore. Many military men respect him for his feats but there are those ‘family’ officers who are always ready to mock him and challenge his decisions, focusing on his troops who met their deaths. When the Daegon attack Albion and move to destroy all of the ruling royal family from King to youngest prince, Thomas ends up at the side of the dying King and the young child is placed in his care. Now Thomas, with two royal guards, has to escape the planet, keep the young prince safe, and find allies to fight the Daegon.

Tiberian, the Daegon commander who failed to eliminate all of the royal family, knows he will be demoted, if not punished, for failing his mission. He becomes obsessed with chasing Thomas to finish the job. Thomas and his handful of crew battle through the enemy lines and limp from one station to another. He needs to seek help from the pirate clans even though one of them has a vendetta death warrant out for him. If he can convince them to guide him across one of the most dangerous channels of space, can they navigate the channel safely while trying to stay ahead of the Daegon?

The royal guards are outfitted with almost sentient armor that enhances their capabilities. There are problems with the two guards with the prince. One of the guards is brand new, and the other has stepped into a dying man’s armor that doesn’t cooperate as it questions the man’s loyalty. And then there is Thomas’ main aid who reluctantly steps in to help the female guard ‘babysit’ the boy.

As the book started I struggled to figure out who was who. Once I got an hour or so in, I had the characters sorted out and was able to enjoy all of the action. I liked Thomas as a humble but skilled leader. He struggles with his decisions but is willing to make the hard calls even if it means fighting a personal enemy one on one to gain a deal. The supporting characters on his crew added interest for me. I’m not gripped by the series but may pick up the next two book pack in the series to continue the saga. Fans of military space opera may enjoy the action in this story.

Audio Notes: Mark Boyett does a great job on the narration. His energy and distinct voices added to the entertainment value of the work.

Source: May 2022 Audible Plus. This qualifies for 2023TBR, 2023Audiobook, and 2023Alphabet goals.

Audio Book Review: Her Cowboy Deputy by Lacy Williams

I totally enjoyed this easy listen romance, which I went through in one day.

Her Cowboy Deputy
Written by Lacy Williams
Narrated by Lara Asmundson

Run Time 6h 27min
Release Date: February 22, 2017
Publisher: Lacy Williams Books LLC
Genres: Christian Fiction, Historical Romance, Western
My Rating: 4.5 of 5.0 Overall; Story 4.5; Narration 4.5.

Publisher Description
She’s a reclusive homesteader who hoped to never see him again. But when she rescues the deputy, she might just be stuck with him…
ABOUT THE BOOK:
She rescued him from drowning…will the cowboy rescue her heart?
In the aftermath of a terrible storm, sheriff’s deputy Matt White is injured and becomes stranded on a remote homestead with a lovely young woman and her grandfather. The reclusive duo intrigues him, but he’s got a duty to the town. He can’t believe it when they refuse to help him return to Bear Creek.
Catherine Poole stays away from town for a reason. She has no time to play nursemaid to the injured lawman-but she also can’t let him suffer. As she cares for the man who stirs up old memories, she discovers Matt’s kind heart and love for his family.
But there’s no hope for a relationship with a man so tied to town…is there?

Review:
Sheriff’s Deputy Matt White is out tracking some suspicious characters when he gets caught in a river during a storm. He is rescued by a young boy who turns out to be a young woman he barely remembers from a time when she came to school. Catherine lives a very reclusive life tending a small farm with her grandfather. Matt asks them to help him get back to town, but they are afraid to leave each other or leave their property unprotected from neighbors who want to take control of their crops.

Catherine has painful memories of her few days at school, where she first met Matt. And then there was the awful day in town with her mother before she died. It suits Catherine fine to stay away from others as she cares for her grandfather who suffers from rough flashbacks and confusion dating back to the Civil War.

Catherine is willing to care for Matt as he recovers from his injuries. She learns of his love for his family, but that is a world she couldn’t know. Matt realizes that Catherine is a hardworking, caring young woman and he regrets how she was treated years ago at school. Now he wants to help her and even protect her…maybe he is growing to care for her.

I enjoyed the relationship of these characters who grow in friendship. There is tension with bad neighbors and a lovely charm with Matt’s strong family. This was a breath of fresh air for me between space battles and murder thrillers. I will look for more from this author and I recommend this to readers who enjoy sweet western romance.

Audio Notes: Lara Asmundson does a good job with the narration. She delivers distinct voices with fitting emotion. The narration enhanced my enjoyment of this sweet story.

Source: March 2021 Chirp Purchase $0.99. This qualifies for 2023TBR, 2023Audiobook, and 2023Occupation goals.

Audio Book Review: Blind Search by Paula Munier

I enjoy the dog characters in this mystery series.
Blind Search
Written by Paula Munier
Narrated by Kathleen McInerney

Run Time 12h 10min
Release Date: November 5, 2019
Publisher: Macmillan Audio
Genres: Crime Fiction & Mysteries, Mysteries & Thrillers, Police Procedurals
My Rating: 4.25 of 5.0 Overall; Story 4.25; Narration 4.0

Publisher Description
Former Army MP Mercy Carr and her retired bomb-sniffing dog Elvis are back in Blind Search, the sequel to the critically acclaimed A Borrowing of Bones. It’s October, hunting season in the Green Mountains—and the Vermont wilderness has never been more beautiful or more dangerous. Especially for nine-year-old Henry, who’s lost in the woods. Again. Only this time he sees something terrible. When a young woman is found shot through the heart with a fatal arrow, Mercy thinks that something is murder. But Henry, a math genius whose autism often silences him when he should speak up most, is not talking. Now there’s a murderer hiding among the hunters in the forest—and Mercy and Elvis must team up with their crime-solving friends, game warden Troy Warner and search-and-rescue dog Susie Bear, to find the killer—before the killer finds Henry. When an early season blizzard hits the mountains, cutting them off from the rest of the world, the race is on to solve the crime, apprehend the murderer, and keep the boy safe until the snowplows get through.Inspired by the true search-and-rescue case of an autistic boy who got lost in the Vermont wilderness, Paula Munier’s mystery is a compelling roller coaster ride through the worst of winter—and human nature.

Review:
Mercy and her bomb-sniffing Malinois, Elvis, are still enjoying the Vermont mountains while continuing to train and rehab through their PTSD. This time they are called upon to find a nine-year-old boy who wanders into the woods. Game Warden Troy and his search-and-rescue Newfoundland, Susie Bear, join in the search. Susie Bear is trained for ‘blind search’ which means searching by smell in the air rather than foot tracks. When the dogs find Henry, he is huddled under a table and clearly frightened. Henry is clearly a child with autism who doesn’t speak normally but he does latch onto the dogs. He wanders in the woods where his memory helps so he isn’t lost, although the adults think he is.

While Henry was out in the woods, a woman who was to join a hunting party at the nearby ski lodge, is found with an arrow in her heart. The hunting group has gathered to discuss the redevelopment of the lodge and not everyone agrees on the resort goals. The shot that killed the woman might have been a hunting accident, but that is unlikely. Because of Henry’s reaction, and willingness to stay with the dogs, Mercy and Elvis are hired to protect the boy.

Mercy and Troy don’t exactly trust the local homicide detective to solve the murder and, of course, they are told to stay clear. Mercy is only a civilian and has no authority to pursue the mystery, but that won’t stop her especially after she has an SUV trying to force her off the mountain roads. Meanwhile, Troy and Susie Bear are busy tracking some poachers who may also be drug or arm dealers and could be suspects. While the mystery pushes to a conclusion, Mercy and Troy’s relationship runs into a major obstacle.

I enjoyed the dogs and Henry as additional characters. I was a bit frustrated that Henry’s autism was never identified as such during the book. Henry’s father seemed clueless and Mercy seemed to handle the boy better than the doctor. The condition was quite clear, and I don’t understand why it was never named in the story.

I enjoyed the developing relationship between Mercy and Troy in the first book, Borrowing of Bones. I did think that Mercy may have overreacted a bit at the situation with Troy at the conclusion of this book. I will be interested to see how the author handles that in the next books. The story has short comings (Mercy’s investigation interference and Elvis’s disobedience), and a few repetitive phrases, but I enjoyed the overall story and recommend it to fans of K-9 dogs. I suggest starting with book one to get to know the characters and their backgrounds.

Audio notes: I found the narration by Kathleen McInerney to be comfortable. The voice distinctions could be better but they work sufficiently. The narration is clear and easy to follow. I am glad I had the story on audio.

Source: March 2021 Chirp purchase $3.99. This qualifies for 2023TBR, 2023Audiobook, and 2023Alphabet goals.

Audio Book Review: The Yankee Widow by Linda Lael Miller

I really enjoyed the blend of history and romance in this story.

The Yankee Widow
By Linda Lael Miller
Narrated By: Jack Garrett

Duration: 14 h 37 min
Release date: 05-07-19
Publisher: Recorded Books
Genre: Civil War, Historical Fiction, Saga
My Rating: 4.75 of 5.0 Overall; Story 4.75; Narration 4.75.

Summary
A richly layered saga is set against the backdrop of the Civil War In The Yankee Widow, gifted storyteller Linda Lael Miller explores the complexities and heartbreak that families experienced as men took up arms to preserve the nation and defend their way of life. Told in a smart, assured and compelling voice, this is the story of Caroline, the young wife and childhood sweetheart of Jacob, who together live on a farm raising their daughter, Rachel, just outside of Gettysburg. When Jacob joins the Northern army to do his duty and help save the Union, no one anticipates he will not return. Caroline gets news that he is wounded and has been taken to Washington, DC, with his regiment, and so she must find her way there and navigate the thousands of other wounded soldiers to find him. Thus begins this novel that focuses on the strong women and men of both sides and both races who sacrificed so much and loved so well during this critical juncture in American history.

Review:
Caroline, a beautiful young woman, married her childhood sweetheart, Jacob. They were working together raising their five-year-old daughter, Rachel, on the family farm on the outskirts of Gettysburg, Pennsylvania. 24 year old Jacob stepped out to do his duty, joining the Union Army. Caroline knows that Jacob loves her deeply, and she has sorrow that perhaps she didn’t love him as passionately. But she was a good, strong wife. When Caroline gets word that Jacob has been injured she travels to Washington, DC to find him. She struggles to find his regiment through thousands of wounded soldiers. Finally, she gets help from a nurse and Captain Rogan McBride who are able to direct her to her husband’s bedside. She stays by his side until she can take his body home on the train.

At the farm, Caroline has help from a hired worker, Enoch, who was a slave rescued and freed by Jacob’s father. Caroline also has the support and help of her grandmother. But soon the community is facing the encroaching armies as the Union and Confederate forces gather to fight at Gettysburg.

Caroline is surprised when Captain McBride arrives at her farm. It is a coincidence, but McBride is glad to have the chance to meet the striking woman he met so briefly in Washington. McBride asks to hide supplies on her property and establishes an atmosphere of protection for her and Rachel.

Just before the battle begins nearby, Enoch discovers a pregnant runaway slave. Enoch has to deal with the men chasing the Jubie. Now the family is hiding Jubie until she can move on.

The battle soon rages in Gettysburg and the small family huddles while the weapons flash, the smoke of the battle rises, and the sounds of the rockets resound. As the battle is won by the North, McBride shows up at the farmstead with a wounded Confederate office. Captain Bridger Winslow is McBride’s best friend and McBride is reluctant to turn him over as a prisoner of war. He asks Caroline and Enoch to shelter Winslow until he can recover from his injuries. McBride is enchanted by Caroline and makes it clear that he wants to give her time to mourn her husband, but he plans to return once he has a chance to take a break from his military duties.

Meanwhile Caroline is at risk sheltering a Confederate officer, but her compassion won’t allow her to turn him away. Caroline is a bit affronted by a man who would fight in support of the institution of slavery. Winslow tries to explain that he does not agree with slavery, but he is fighting to protect his family in Georgia. They struggle to understand each other even as their attraction grows.

The story follows to reveal if all the primary characters will survive and how they interact. I always like the history of Civil War that is described in fiction. There is realistic horror in the war and a sense of loss and fear for civilians. I liked how Ms. Miller created likeable characters who struggle with personal tragedy and emotional conflicts of ideology in this period. I recommend this to readers who like the historical period.

Audio Notes: Jack Garrett delivers a wonderful narration performance. His voices were distinct and fit the era. His narration enhanced my enjoyment of the story.

Source: 5/8/2021 Two for One Credit Deal at Audiobooks.com. This qualifies for 2023TBR, 2023Audiobook, 2023Alphabet, and 2023Occupation goals.

Audible Book Review: Cat o' Nine Tales by Faith Hunter

This is a great collection that gives the background of several of Jane's friends.
Cat o' Nine Tales
The Jane Yellowrock Stories
By: Faith Hunter
Narrated by: Khristine Hvam

Series: Jane Yellowrock
Length: 13 hrs and 28 mins
Release date: 12-10-13
Publisher: Audible Studios
Categories: Fantasy, Paranormal, Science Fiction, Urban
My Rating: 4.5 of 5.0 Overall; Story 4.5; Narration 4.5.

Publisher's Summary
For the first time - in one Audible-exclusive collection - it's 13 stories of Jane Yellowrock, the shape-shifting skinwalker and vampire hunter for hire whose business card reads, "Have Stakes - Will Travel". Jane carries inside her the soul of her Beast, the mountain lion's soul which merged with hers when she accidently performed black magic as a child. Now, she and her Beast stalk the dark streets of New Orleans, bringing rogue vampires true death.
In Cat o' Nine Tales, you'll discover how Jane turned into a big cat for the first time; how she and Molly became friends; how Rick LaFleur got his tattoos. You'll go along on some of Jane's early vamp hunts. You'll even hear two short tales through Bruiser's eyes.
Once you experience these stories set in the fantastic world of this New York Times best-selling series, you'll surely agree with Kim Harrison that Jane Yellowrock is "smart, sexy and ruthless".
The stories included in Cat o' Nine Tales are:
"WeSa and the Lumber King"
"The Early Years"
"Cat Tats"
"Kits"
"Haints"
"Signatures of the Dead"
"First Sight"
"Blood, Fangs and Going Furry"
"Dance Master"
"Cajun With Fangs"
"Golden Delicious"
"Beneath a Bloody Moon"
"Black Water"
©2013 Faith Hunter (P)2013 Audible, Inc.

Review:
I have read a lot of Jane Yellowrock’s so I was only familiar with a few of her friends and associates. I enjoy Jane’s character – a skilled vampire hunter for hire, who happens to be a shape-shifting skinwalker. This collection provides the history of Jane’s Beast, a mountain lion, and the reader gets to see several other of her transformations.

I also enjoyed learning how about Jane’s friends. Molly is a witch who helps Jane in several situations especially after Jane saved Molly’s daughter. Jane’s sometimes boyfriend, Rick LaFleur, a former detective, got his tattoo in a situation that almost cost him his life, and brought him back into Jane’s life. Then there is Bruiser, the head enforcer for the local Vampire leader, who is drawn to Jane’s mysterious personality and assured confidence.

Having enjoyed the action, characters, and mysteries of this collection, I know that I will continue reading (listening to) more in the series. I think a new reader should read at least one or two of the Jane Yellowrock stories before enjoying this collection.

Audio Notes: Khristine Hyam does a wonderful job with all of the characters. I even enjoyed the voice of the Beast. I find the audio enhances these stories for me.

Source: April 2021 Audible Plus Catalog free audio. This qualifies for 2023TBR, 2023Audiobook, and 2023Number goals.