Audible Book Reviews: Three X Minus One #VintageSciFi Stories

These are wonderful short stories of imagination and irony!

(Applicable to all three stories.)
Publisher's Summary
X Minus One premiered in April 1955 on NBC and ran until January 1958. Like its predecessor series, Dimension X, X Minus One featured stories by the greatest names in modern science fiction: Ray Bradbury, Robert Heinlein, Clifford Simak, Robert Bloch, and many more.
Public Domain (P)2012 BN Publishing

“From the far horizons of the unknown come transcribed tales of new dimensions in time and space. These are stories of the future. Adventures in which you’ll live in a million could be years in a thousand maybe worlds.”


X Minus One: Cold Equations (August 25, 1955)
Written by: Tom Godwin, George Lefferts - adaptation
Narrated by: Fred Collins
Length: 23 mins
Radio/TV Program
Release Date:05-22-15
Publisher: BN Publishing

My Rating: 4.5 of 5.0

Review:
Barton is a pilot of an EDS, Emergency Dispatch Ship. These are specialized rescue units used to make the emergency trips when and where no one else can. Barton has been assigned to deliver life-saving serum to a work force of 16 men who have already become ill. Time is of the essence and the trip is planned with precise detail to make the mission successful.

As his ship settles into its journey Barton notices an unexpected heat signature. He discovers a stow-away who turns out to be the lovely wife of one of the men on the planet. The couple have been apart for a number of years and she snuck on board to make a surprise visit. How can Barton handle this when the trip doesn’t factor in another person?

This is a wonderfully engaging and ironic, if sad, short story. I saw the dilemma and appreciated Barton’s compassion. The solutions are limited. I held my breath a bit as I waited to see what would happen.


X Minus One: Protective Mimicry (October 3, 1956)
Written by: Algis Budrys, Ernest Kinoy - adaptation
Narrated by: Fred Collins
Length: 29 mins
Radio/TV Program
Release Date:05-27-15
Publisher: BN Publishing

My Rating: 4.25 of 5.0

Review:
One Protective Mimicry finds us with Bamhoser, a special agent in "United Galactic Federation Department of Treasury, Investigation Division, Currency Section". Bamhoser has to track down a counterfeiter who is believed to have created a matter duplicator. His investigation takes him deep into the jungles of a humid, alien world where primitive natives live without sophisticated machinery. The counterfeiter captures Bamhoser and, in his arrogance, the thief explains his methods. When Bamhoser’s companions arrive and a battle breaks out, an unexpected event wins the day for the good guys.

Again the story is quick and I had to laugh at the ironic ending. There is some fun, 50’s appropriate views of women and repartee among the characters. The descriptions are well done, putting the reader in the stifling jungle, including a character blood-sucking bug.

X Minus One: Target One (December 26, 1957)
Written by: Frederik Pohl, George Lefferts - adaptation
Narrated by: Fred Collins
Length: 20 mins
Radio/TV Program
Release Date: 05-28-15
Publisher: BN Publishing

My Rating: 4.25 of 5.0

Review:
This story takes place in a future world where the humans have been all but extinguished with the devastation and destruction caused by atomic war in 1960. The current society, even thirty years later, is suffering from the fall out, with birth deformities and mutations. The world council president believes that drastic steps must be taken to save humanity. Secretly a time machine has been developed and a plan is put into place to send a scientist who understands the problem back to assassinate the original source of the problem.

The question is: can eliminating one man really stop scientific progress and prevent the knowledge and development the future leaders most fear? When Dr. Maron returns to his own time, ninety years in ahead, what world will await him?

There is always a twist when it comes to time travel and this is no exception. Time travel to assassin someone in the past never quite comes out as expected. After all - how do you kill an idea? Once again, the quick story has an ironic end.

(Image and Plot Archives found at this site.)

I love how each of these stories are engaging, quick and ironic. The other thing I noted is that I can identify themes in these stories in contemporary stories I have read over the past year or so. It makes me wonder: how much of what we read now draws upon the authors of the past?

Audio Notes: These are presented as NBC broadcasts with some audio effects. I could imagine sitting by a radio in the 1950s to listen to these wonderful episodes. This is great entertainment for under $1.00 per selection!

I selected these three short audios for Vintage Sci Fi reading. They also begin my 2016 Audiobook Challenge and X on the Alphabet Soup Challenge! This is also my 2016 First Book of the Year

Audible Book Review: Day by Day Armageddon: Beyond Exile by J. L. Bourne

This continuing story tells of entertaining zombie battles. 

Day by Day Armageddon: Beyond Exile

Written by: J. L. Bourne

Narrated by: Jay Snyder

Length: 9 hrs and 40 mins

Series: Day by Day Armageddon, Book 2

Unabridged Audiobook

Release Date:07-13-10

Publisher: Audible Studios

Genre: Thriller, Sci Fi

My Rating: 4.0 of 5.0

The first book of Day by Day Armageddon took us deep into the mind of a military officer and survivor as he made a New Year's resolution to start keeping a journal. The man kept his resolution and brought to us the fall of humanity, day by day. We see the man transition from the life that you and I live to the prospect of fighting for his very survival against the overwhelming hordes of the dead. We see him bleed, we see him make mistakes, we witness him evolve. The highly anticipated sequel to the best-selling underground cult classic, Day by Day Armageddon, begins where the first novel left off.

BEGIN INTERCEPT

Armies of undead have risen up across the U.S. and around the globe; there is no safe haven from the diseased corpses hungering for human flesh. But in the heat of a Texas wasteland, a small band of survivors attempt to counter the millions closing in around them.

INTERCEPT COMPLETED

Day by day, the handwritten journal entries of one man caught in a worldwide cataclysm capture the desperation--and the will to survive--as he joins forces with a handful of refugees to battle soulless enemies both human and inhuman from inside an abandoned strategic missile facility. But in the world of the undead, is mere survival enough?

©2010 J.L. Bourne (P)2010 Audible, Inc.

Review:

As I began to write this review I realized I do not have a name for the protagonist. He is listed in Book 1 as “the Unknown Survivor (the TUS). We know that he was an officer who found himself the soul survivor of the plague that turned his squadron into the living dead. Now he is a man struggling to survive with a small group of other survivors. TUS journals each day to keep track of the epidemic and the brave efforts to fight off the undead and find other survivors.

TUS is doing well with a group at their compound at “Hotel 23”, an abandoned, underground, strategic missile facility in Texas. The Hotel has proved to be a secure haven from the world of the undead although it still suffers threats from human raiders.

The journaling continues as TUS and his friends forage for food, fuel and (noncombatant) survivors. The Hotel 23 crew hear a distress call from a Marine squadron whose vehicle broke down. TUS and others run a rescue mission to save the Marines from the undead. They don’t want the Marines to know where the compound is so the men are blindfolded for the travel before they are returned to their own unit. Of course the Marines then try to find Hotel 23 and when they finally arrive they threaten to break in until TUS realizes he has a way to control the situation.

TUS also finds a note at a Texas airport indicating there are other survivors at another airport. Of course, he sets off on another rescue mission and encounters more hordes of undead.

Another ‘adventure’ ends with TUS surviving a helicopter flight that strands him far from home. He is struggling along the way home when he gets unexpected help in the form of supplies dropped from the sky. The supplies give him an advantage that just might allow him to work his way back to Hotel 23. TUS runs into difficult situations and is lucky to find another military specialist, Saien, who joins him along the trek.

Even in a time when 90% of the population are undead, TUS discovers he still has to deal with authority and manipulation. He will have to make some political decisions when opposing sides command his actions.

The story is full of gritty action and intrigue. The journaling approach works to present TUS’ view of action and military input. However the journal (and story) have a limited emotional presentation. There is little depth and background development among most of the secondary characters. Still the story is entertaining. I recommend this to readers who enjoy the zombie genre.

Audio Notes: Jay Snyder does a good job with the narration. He manages to convey the intensity in the action even though he is reading a journal. I enjoy this in audio

I listened to the first book some time ago and decided to listen to this one which has been on my Audible shelf since 2011. This qualifies for my Audio Challenge and as a TBR shelf read.

Audible Book Review: Eighth Grave After Dark by Darynda Jones

This eighth episode adds new twists to this engaging series.
Eighth Grave After Dark
By Darynda Jones
Narrated By Lorelei King

Length: 9 hrs
Series: Charley Davidson, Book 8
Unabridged Audiobook
Release Date:05-19-15
Publisher: Macmillan Audio
Genre: Fantasy, Paranormal
My Rating: 4.25 of 5.0

Publisher's Summary
With 12 hellhounds after her, pregnant Charley Davidson takes refuge at the only place she thinks they can't get to her: the grounds of an abandoned convent. But after months of being cooped up there, Charley is ready to pop. Both metaphorically and literally, since she is now roughly the size of a beached whale. Fortunately a new case has captured her attention, one that involves a murder on the very grounds the team has taken shelter upon. A decades-old murder of the newly vowed nun she keeps seeing in the shadows is almost enough to pull her out of her doldrums.
Charley's been forbidden to step foot off the sacred grounds. While the angry hellhounds can't traverse the consecrated soil, they can lurk just beyond its borders. They have the entire team on edge, especially Reyes. And if Charley didn't know better, she would swear Reyes is getting sick. He grows hotter with every moment that passes, his heat scorching across her skin every time he's near, but naturally he swears he's fine. Charley is about to get the surprise of her crazy, mixed-up, supernatural life.
©2015 Darynda Jones (P)2015 Macmillan Audio

Review:
Charley, the grim reaper, and Reyes, the son of Satan, and friends are settled - or more like ‘locked’ in - at an abandoned convent where they believe the 12 hellhounds can’t venture. Charley is glad to have the diversion and excitement of helping the wedding plans for Uncle Bob and her assistant, best friend, Cookie. Everyone is a bit on edge looking for activity. Charley is happy to get a last minute call for help from her FBI friend and even Cookie has her own reasons to delay her honeymoon.

Charley doesn’t realize at first what is happening to Reyes, she just knows he is scorching hot - even more than usual. She is also concerned when she realizes he keeps sneaking off to meet with her ghostly investigator, 13 year old Angel.

Charley is dealing with other problems as her step-mother, Denise, who is far from her favorite person, is trying to build a new relationship so she can be part of little ‘beep’s life. Charley’s old house ghost, Mr. Wong, has moved into the convent and there are ghosts multiplying on the lawn while Charley’s dead father slips in to tell her there are spies in the household.

Charley is plenty restless. Since Reyes is keeping secrets she decides to keep her own secrets and ‘slip out’ to interview a kidnapper. That causes friction but things really heat up when Charley races out of the convent thinking that Cookie and Amber are in danger. Charley runs into some old friends who rein her back to the convent when they realize there is trouble at home.

This episode is a little quieter at first as the story focuses on the wedding and the birth of 'beep'. There is the usual snappy humor is full force but at times I wondered where the story was going. Finally the action picks up and I liked the twists and surprises when the enemies and allies face off. The ending takes an unexpected leap to leave us hanging till book nine.

Audio Notes: After eight listens there is not much more to say about the wonderfully entertaining narration by Lorelei King. She makes it an easy, enjoyable listening experience.

I picked this up at Audible with one of my monthly credits. This is part of my audio challenge.

Audio Book Review: Diamond Rings Are Deadly Things: The Wedding Planner Mysteries, Book 1, by Rachelle J. Christensen,

This is a fast, fun cozy mystery. 
Diamond Rings Are Deadly Things: The Wedding Planner Mysteries, Book 1
Written by: Rachelle J. Christensen
Narrated by: Kirsten Potter

Length: 9 hrs and 29 mins
Series: Wedding Planner Mysteries, Book 1
Unabridged Audiobook
Release Date:03-05-15
Publisher: Deseret Book Company
Genre: Cozy Mystery
My Rating: 4.25 of 5.0

Publisher's Summary
Adrielle Pyper knows how to plan a wedding, and she is especially good at pleasing bridezillas. But when her biggest client and best friend is murdered just three days before the wedding, Adri's world falls apart. She moves to the resort town of Sun Valley, Idaho, and starts from scratch. Thanks to Adri's impeccable taste and unique style, she lands two celebrity clients, and her business seems headed for success - that is until someone vandalizes the specialty wedding dresses she imported from overseas. The race is on to uncover a secret hidden within the yards of satin and lace before Adri becomes the next victim.
With a delightful blend of mystery, toe-curling kisses, humor, and spine-tingling thrills, Diamond Rings Are Deadly Things is a romantic suspense novel that will keep you listening long into the night.
©2014 Rachelle Christensen (P)2015 Blackstone Audio, Inc.

Review:
Adrielle is a wedding planner who moved to Sun Valley, Idaho after a trauma in her big city career. She is slowly building her new business, planning two important society weddings, one with a lovely bride and the other with a bridezilla ‘starlet’ diva. The brides have an interesting connection as the sweet bride is the new fiancé of the wealthy, handsome ex of the diva.

Adri and her best friend, Lorea, are expanding their business by including wedding dresses in their inventory. The first shipment of dresses arrives with one dress missing and one with hem damage. As the girls scramble to keep the plans moving for their brides, Adri has to cope with vandalized dresses, stolen diamonds and threatening pictures.

Meanwhile Lorea is encouraging Adri to take a chance on a little bit of romance. Even as Adri has a couple of dates with a shy friend, she is eyeing a gorgeous hunk on the jog trail and another gorgeous man who shows interest but has a distaste for weddings.

The story is lively and fun as Adri hides facts from the police to save her dresses, soothes competing brides and juggles potential beaus. The characters are real and likable - except for Bridezilla of course. The writing is straightforward and moves at a good easy pace. The mystery has twists that kept me guessing and l liked the light romance elements as well. I also enjoyed the bridal tips that start each chapter. I recommend this to readers who love a fun, cozy mystery and those who enjoy wedding elements.

Audio Notes: Kirsten Potter does an okay job narrating the story. Once I got accustomed to her voice, I decided it fit well for the primary characters and she adds enough inflection for the other voices to keep them distinct. I enjoyed the audio which made this a quick enjoyable “read.”

I received this audio title through Audiobook Jukebox for an honest review. This qualifies for my 2015 Audiobook challenge.

Audiobook Review and Giveaway: Dawn of Destiny (Epic Book 1) by Lee Stephen

I enjoyed this engaging story with its well developed characters and solid action.

Dawn of Destiny (Epic Book 1)
by Lee Stephen

Genre: Sci-fi
Publisher: Stone Aside Publishing, L.L.C.
Published: October 2014
Available in: Mp3
Length: 9 hours, 47 mins
Available in: Print, ebook (mobi for Kindle and ePub) and audiobook (full cast with cinematic sound effects - see more description below)
Content Rating: PG-13 for violence and depictions of war. There is no profanity, sexual content, or drug use.
My Rating: 4.75 of 5.0

Book Description
Publication Date: November 4, 2006
Some men go to war for the glory. Some men go to war to escape. For Scott Remington, war is entirely different. It is a belief. It is a calling. It is a destiny. Leaving everything behind-his fiancée, his future, his life-he embarks on a mission of faith into a battle he can barely understand. This is his story. This is his war. This is only the beginning.

Review:
Scott Remington is a Christian young man who has a natural talent for leadership. He did well at the Philadelphia Academy training to be a new soldier for EDEN, the Earth Defense Network. Even though the soldiers are well trained and learn about the alien creatures that are now invading earth, it isn’t the same as suddenly being thrust into the fight and facing live enemies.

Scott applies for assignment to Detroit where his young fiancé, Nicole, is in nursing school. Instead he is sent to Richmond, VA where he meets new friends. David is the eldest, a fourteen year old New York Police officer. Becan is a brash, cocky Irishman. Jayden is a quiet young Texan who is the respected sniper of the group. Scott and the other rookies are assigned to the top unit, the Falcon Platoon. Their commander is less than pleased to be given alpha level privates but they are the only troops available especially after Falcon lost all but three of its members in the last engagement at Cleveland.

The platoon is called out with others to face the purple, eye-bulging Bakma in Chicago. Scott steps into command when his unit leader falls and leads the team to complete a successful mission. The men respect Scott’s quick, calm authority.

Scott’s actions result in his becoming the youngest soldier to be awarded the rare and prestigious Golden Lion medal. Although the press makes a fuss, Scott accepts the honor humbly, sharing credit with others.

The four friends face other enemies and their versatility and successes cause them to be reassigned to Novosibirsk, Russia. The Russian base is under the command of the famed, brutal General Thoor who leads the mysterious Russian unit known as the Nightmen. These are all fierce, highly trained soldiers and rumor has it the initiation price is murder.

Scott and his friends are assigned to unit 14 where they build new friendships and face more serious dangers. There are painful losses even before the troops face a major stealth attack on their base. Scott again gains respect with his fast, decisive actions.

I really enjoyed the fierce and fast paced battle scenes. I also liked how Mr. Stephen’s develops the characters and builds their friendships. The story is not just war but it includes personal interactions that add interest. I appreciated the faith foundation of Scott’s character yet the story does not have religious preaching that might put off some readers. I was also impressed that the author deals in intense situations without resorting to unnecessary swearing. Finishing the first book left me anxious to jump right into the next one.

Audio Notes: The audiobook is a dramatization with background sounds fitting the scenes. The production is well done making the action come alive. The only drawback was the spacing and music at the end of chapters is left a bit longer than necessary. I definitely enjoyed the audio version and recommend it to those who enjoy a full, surround sound experience.

I received this in Audiobook from iRead Book Tours to provide an honest review. This qualifies for my Audiobook Challenge.

The Audiobook:
The Dawn of Destiny audiobook project is a full adaptation of the first book in the Epic series. It's not your typical “audiobook,” even though technically that's what it is. When people hear “audiobook,” there’s a certain type of thing that usually comes to mind. Most likely it’s the thought of someone reading a book to them, occasionally with music playing in the background. This isn't that.

What you’re going to hear in this project, is more of an audio “experience,” the audio equivalent of a summer blockbuster movie. Over thirty voice actors played a role in this. This is ear-splitting sound effects, bombastic music, and characters shouting back and forth in the middle of a war zone. This is unlike anything you've ever heard.

Where to buy the book:

Amazon

Barnes & Noble

Author's Bio:
Born and raised in Cajun country, Lee Stephen spent his childhood paddling pirogues through the marshes of South Louisiana. When he wasn’t catching bullfrogs or playing with alligators in the bathtub (both true), he was escaping to the world of the imagination, creating worlds in his mind filled with strange creatures and epic journeys. This hasn’t stopped.

Now a resident of Luling, Louisiana, Lee spends time every day delving into the world of Epic, the science-fiction series that has come to define him as a writer and producer. Alongside his wife, Lindsey, their sons, Levi and Lawson, and their dog, Jake, Lee has made it a mission to create a series that is unique in its genre—one unafraid to address the human condition while staying grounded in elements of faith.

Connect with Lee:  Website  ~  Twitter  ~  Facebook

Enter the Giveaway!

Prizes: ​ Win one of 3 sets of books in the Epic series, Dawn of Destiny and Outlaw Trigger; Open to USA & Canada.  Ends July 4, 2015.


a Rafflecopter giveaway

For additional information visit the blog tour page at iRead Book Tours.

Audible Review: The Tempting of Thomas Carrick: The Cynster Novels, Book 21 by Stephanie Laurens

I enjoyed the overall story even though there are flaws.
The Tempting of Thomas Carrick: The Cynster Novels, Book 21
Written by: Stephanie Laurens
Narrated by: Matthew Brenher

Length: 14 hrs and 21 mins
Series: Cynsters, Book 21
Release Date:02-24-15
Publisher: Blackstone Audio
Genre: Historical Romance
My Rating: 4.0 of 5.0

Publisher's Summary
What happens when fate, love, and passion collide?
The number one New York Times best-selling author Stephanie Laurens returns to Scotland with a tale of two lovers irrevocably linked by destiny and passion.
Thomas Carrick is a gentleman driven to control all aspects of his life. As the wealthy owner of Carrick Enterprises, located in bustling Glasgow, he is one of that city's most eligible bachelors and fully intends to select an appropriate wife from the many young ladies paraded before him. He wants to take that necessary next step along his self-determined path, yet no young lady captures his eye, much less his attention - not in the way Lucilla Cynster does, even though she lives miles away.
For over two years, Thomas has avoided his clan's estate because it borders Lucilla's home, but disturbing reports from his clansmen force him to return to the countryside - only to discover that his uncle, the laird, is ailing, a clan family is desperately ill, and the clan healer is unconscious and dying. Duty to the clan leaves Thomas no choice but to seek help from the last woman he wants to face.
Strong-willed and passionate, Lucilla has been waiting - increasingly impatient - for Thomas to return and claim his rightful place by her side. She knows he is hers - her fated lover, husband, protector, and mate. He is the only man for her, just as she is his one true love. And, at last, he's back. Even though his returning wasn't on her account, Lucilla is willing to seize whatever chance fate hands her.
Thomas can never forget Lucilla, much less the connection that seethes between them, but to marry her would mean embracing a life he's adamant he does not want.
Lucilla sees that Thomas has yet to accept the inevitability of their union. But how can he ignore a bond such as theirs - one so much stronger than reason?
©2015 Savdek Management Proprietary Limited (P)2015 Blackstone Audio, Inc.

Review:
I deleted my first three paragraphs as I found them to be a restating of the Publisher summary which gives the basic information. I direct you to read the Publisher summary to which I add the next paragraph in my own words.

Lucilla has been waiting for Thomas to return to the area and now that he is here she realizes she must use every temptation she can to get him to stay, even if it means outright seduction and disregard for his plans. Thomas resists giving in to his physical needs but his attraction to Lucilla is undeniable. Even if he finally succumbs to her persistent attentions, he has no intention of submitting to some fate, or Lady of the Vale, that he cannot control.

I liked the mystery that opens and closes the book although I felt there were loose ends. The plot in between focuses on the romance and conflicts of interest between the main characters. The romance scenes are sensual and nicely done, if a bit long winded for my tastes. It did bother me that there was no regard for the consequences of their intimacy. I found this unrealistic for the times as well as making Thomas to be a man of little honor.

I read the beginning books in this series many years ago and have a collection on my TBR shelves. I was pleased to find Ms. Laurens’ writing style still includes strong, well developed characters and an engaging romance. There is a point late in the story that brings the Cynster family together and I was glad to recognize several characters from the early books. There are details of other characters left open at the end that imply a future story for another Cynster character.

This is clearly part of a long family series, but I don't feel it would be necessary to read the earlier books. Reading book 3, Scandal's Bride would provide the story of Lucilla's parents. I would not want a steady diet of this type of romance but I am comfortable recommending this story, and this author, to readers who enjoy a sensual, character centered historical romance.

Audio Notes: You don’t generically think of romance as being suited for male narration. However, much of this story is told from Thomas’ view so it fit. Matthew Brenher does a fine job with both the voices, accents and emotions of the characters. My engagement in the story was enhanced by the audio.

I selected this title from Blackstone Audio through Audiobook Jukebox. This adds to my Audio Book Challenge.

Audible Book Review: Virgin River by Robyn Carr

This is an entertaining, character driven, small town romance story.

Virgin River

Written by: Robyn Carr

Narrated by: Therese Plummer

Length: 12 hrs and 23 mins

Series: Virgin River, Book 1

Release Date:05-07-09

Publisher: Recorded Books

Genre: Contemporary Romance, Small Town

My Rating: 4.0 of 5.0

Publisher's Summary

Fan-adored author Robyn Carr presents the story of a woman who "needs a change [and] gets something very different than she bargained for" (Booklist).

Recently widowed, grieving Los Angeles midwife/nurse Melinda Monroe answers a small upstate town's ad for help. Nestled amongst California's giant redwoods, quaint Virgin River is host to many quirky characters - including bar owner Jack Sheridan, who may be just the man to make Melinda smile again.

©2007 Robyn Carr; (P)2009 Recorded Books, LLC

Review:
Melinda, a midwife/nurse, left the busy hospital in Los Angeles to take a job in the remote town of Virgin River. She seeks to escape the familiar places that remind her of her grief over the murder of her husband. She loves being a midwife and the woman who recruited her to Virgin River assured her that she would be provided with a cozy cabin and a position working with the town's aging doctor.

Melinda arrives to discover that the cabin is filthy and dilapidated. When she meets the 70+ year old doctor she learns that he is a curmudgeon who objects to the idea of help. She heads to the local bar to get warm, get something to eat, and find out where she can stay but there is no other accommodation in town. Things don’t look too promising and she plans to leave the next morning.

The bar owner, Jack Sheridan, is immediately smitten which is new for him. Unmarried at 40, he has been fine with friendly flings and no attachments. He sees the sadness in Mel and wants to find a way to keep her in town so he can make her smile. Fate steps in the next morning when they discover an abandoned baby on Doc’s doorstep. Melinda moves in with Doc, determined to make sure the baby is okay before she leaves. Jack goes to work fixing up the cabin as a surprise lure to keep Mel from leaving.

A day becomes a week, a week a month, and bit by bit Melinda makes friends and becomes invested in the lives of the people of Virgin River. She views Jack as her best friend in town but she still hasn’t told anyone about her dead husband. Jack knows there is something holding her back from sharing feelings and time with him. He is willing to pursue her patiently but persistently.

Melinda and Jack are nice strong characters who carry the story. The secondary characters add a lot of interest and fun as well. I enjoyed the tension and the sweet development of friendship and love. Melinda visits nearby towns including Grace Valley where she meets June and Jim. I mention this as it was nice to revisit with those characters that I met in the very first Carr book and trilogy that I read years ago.

Ms. Carr does a wonderful job of developing real characters in real circumstances. The story is character driven with enough plot and action to keep it moving at an easy pace. I did enjoy this but I‘m not sure I would make it through 19 books in the series. I recommend this to readers who enjoy small town romances with  life-like characters.

Audio Notes: Therese Plummer does a fine job with the narration. It isn’t over the top in voice accents but she succeeds in sharing the emotional intensity. The audio enhanced my enjoyment of this story.

This has been in my Audible library since 2012. This qualifies for my TBR list, my Audio Book Challenge and V in Alphabet Soup Challenge.

Audible Review: Gabriel: Zero Point: The FREE Prequel Novella: Evan Gabriel Trilogy by Steve Umstead

This is fast paced military action with a creative story.
Gabriel: Zero Point: The FREE Prequel Novella: Evan Gabriel Trilogy
Written by: Steve Umstead
Narrated by: Ray Chase

Length: 2 hrs and 43 mins
Series: Evan Gabriel, Book 0.5
Unabridged Audiobook
Release Date:12-27-13
Publisher: Podium Publishing
Genre: Sci Fi Contemporary, Military
My Rating: 4.25 of 5.0

Publisher's Summary
Evan Gabriel wasn't always a feared and respected North American Federation Navy Commander. Before dangerous missions to the ice-bound planet of Poliahu, the deadly jungle world of Eden, and politically corrupt Mars, he was a simple recruit, fighting to make his mark in the elite Naval Special Forces…and was part of a top-secret military experiment that would change his life forever.
Zero Point tells the tale of a young man faced with difficult choices and dangerous trials. Fans of the series will see part of the mysterious past Evan Gabriel carries with him, while listeners new to the series get a preview of what is to come in a military man's haunted life. Zero Point is the true beginning of Evan Gabriel, and his story is just getting started.
©2012 Steve Umstead (P)2013 Podium Publishing

Review:
Gabriel was a young soldier in training whose high level skills caught the eyes of superiors, including a special recruiter. Gabriel has the right profile - no family and no real friends because his loyalty takes precedence over personal relationships. A tough Naval commander offers Gabriel the chance to become part of an elite division of the Naval Special Forces. Gabriel accepts even though he doesn’t have the full details.

Gabriel is delivered to a secret laboratory for special work to prepare for his new career. There he learns that he is about to become a ‘super soldier’ with physical and mental augmentation. He doesn’t get much time to consider the program before a sad technician/scientist thrusts him into a tank for the changes. When Gabriel awakens he finds himself at a zero point - reborn with powers he will have to get used to on the run. The technician is missing and there is a blood trail across the floor.

Gabriel sets out to find the girl and quickly faces multiple attackers, booby trapped hallways and wicked, multi-weaponed assassins. Gabriel suffers wounds that his new body works on healing internally. He successfully faces down all obstacles only to come face to face with a master enemy when he finally reaches the room and finds the technician.

I enjoyed the fast pace action and detailed military maneuvers that were described in this novella. I appreciated Gabriel’s background as the author develops his character. The reader also gets to meet certain military officials whom suspect I will be appearing in further books in the series. The story is direct and believable. I was pleased to have this as a free audio which did result in my purchase of the first full novel in the trilogy: Gabriel’s Redemption.

Audio Notes: It took just a little time to get used to the deep soft voice of the narrator. Ray Chase does a good job presenting the story with intensity that portrays the personalities of the characters. It was nice that this was a quick listen, under three hours, to garner interest in the series. It also included the beginning of book 1 which I enjoyed until I downloaded that book. I recommend this on audio as a quick, exciting listen.

I downloaded this free prequel at Audible. This is part of my Audio Challenge. It is also G on Alphabet Soup Challenge.

Audio Book Review: Blood for Ink: The Scarlet Plumiere Series, Book 1 by L. L. Muir

This is a delightfully fun romantic engagement of wits with a dash of danger.

Blood for Ink: The Scarlet Plumiere Series, Book 1
Written by: L. L. Muir
Narrated by: Jim McCance

Length: 10 hrs and 12 mins
Series: The Scarlet Plumiere Series, Book 1
Release Date:01-18-13
Publisher: Lesli Muir Lytle

Genre: Historical Romance

My Rating: 4.5 of 5.0

Publisher's Summary
If he unmasks her, she's as good as dead....
As the mysterious writer who exposes gentlemen's secrets, it is not the first time The Scarlet Plumiere has been hunted. But this time it's different. This time, she interferes with one of the Four Kings, and the brotherhood will not rest until they marry her off and place her securely under a man's thumb. Only they have to catch her first.
The Earl of Northwick is falling for this writer, sight unseen. Will she be pretty? Will she have all her teeth? In his rush to claim her for himself, regardless of who she might ultimately be, he places her in grave danger - her desperate enemies are watching closely for the moment her mask is removed.
Blood for Ink is a full-length Regency romance and is the first of four novels in The Scarlet Plumiere Series. The sequel is Bones for Bread and an excerpt is included at the end of Blood for Ink.
©2012 Lesli Muir Lytle (P)2012 Lesli Muir Lytle

Review:
The Earl of Northwick, North, is one of the Four Kings, four men who fought in the war, escaped with some mental if not physical injuries, and are stalwart bachelors in the ton. One of their group is engaged to be married but his reputation is sullied by innuendos from a columnist known as The Scarlet Plumiere. This is a woman who reports the bad behavior of ‘supposed gentlemen’ in an effort to save the women who might otherwise fall prey to those wicked and false men. This time the Plumiere has made false statements and North and his friends are determined to uncover her identity and rein her in. They decide the best way to control her will be to get her married to a strong husband. The men set out a unique and reckless method to choose a husband. Next they have to find a way to unmask her.

North finds himself charmed and fascinated by the wit and cleverness of The Plumiere. He fantasizes about her other attributes too. He begins a dialogue in the paper where they exchange challenges and North announces publicly that he plans to marry the woman when he finds her. He is sure he can lure her out and is set to expose her before he realizes the danger she will be in.

The Scarlet Plumiere keeps her secrets close. She has a fine line of information that helps her to expose men of immoral or untrustworthy behavior. She is enjoying her written exchange with “Mr. Lot”, aka North, who drew the lot to marry her. However, when the Four Kings set out spies to uncover clues to her name and informants she is almost too late to realize the grave danger this presents to her and her loved ones. After all she has ruined the lives of several gentleman who would be more than happy to know her identity so they could take revenge.

Olivia, Livvy, has been a recluse since the scandal of her broken engagement two years ago. She was about to marry a wealthy man of the ton until The Scarlet Plumiere exposed his unnatural habits and despicable plans towards his intended bride. Livvy has also stayed close to home to take care of her father. She is just beginning to think she might venture out in society when the Earl of Northwick appears at her door. She would avoid him except that he has already been ushered in to visit with her father so she must intervene.

Livvy remembers the Four Kings as young boys when she had a crush on North. She never expected to have the chance to gain his adult attention. She is nervous that he has sought her out because he hopes she can provide assistance in finding the true name of The Scarlet Plumiere. North is enchanted by Livvy’s intelligence and finds himself caught between his desire for two women, the one he is sharing time with and the one he wants to find and protect. His friends rally around to offer support and the danger escalates.

I really enjoyed the smart repartee between the characters, which includes the men as well as the Plumiere and Olivia. I found myself chuckling and all was good until about a third into the book. Unfortunately Olivia starts acting like an idiot and making some stupid mistakes that diminished her strong character in my opinion. North and his friends make a wonderful crew of heroes, each adding depth through their own personalities.

I enjoyed the characters, the dialogue and the plot. I got past the lunacy and went with the danger and the humor of the story. I would really like to read more in the series and look forward to a  romance for Ashmore.

Audio Notes: It was very strange to start listening and realize the narrator was a deep voiced male which seemed incongruous for a romance. (Although I can think of a couple of excellent male narrators who do great with romance, i.e. Simon Vance.) It only took a few minutes for me to appreciate the presentation by Jim McCance who is able to capitalize through the point of view of Northwick and his friends. By the time the POV shifted to Olivia I was totally enjoying the narration. If you listen to a sample try to be open minded because the voice might just grow on you. I will look for more audios narrated by Mr. McCance.

I received this audio through AudioBook Jukebox for an honest review. It qualifies for AudioBook Challenge.

Audible Book Review: Dead Reckoning: Sookie Stackhouse Southern Vampire Mystery #11 by Charlaine Harris

I found this to be an entertaining, if interim, story in this series.
Dead Reckoning: Sookie Stackhouse Southern Vampire Mystery #11
Written by: Charlaine Harris
Narrated by: Johanna Parker

Length: 10 hrs and 47 mins
Series: Sookie Stackhouse, Book 11
Unabridged Audiobook
Release Date:05-03-11
Publisher: Recorded Books
Genre: Fantasy, Paranormal
My Rating: 4.0 of 5.0

Publisher's Summary
With her knack for being in trouble's way, Sookie witnesses the firebombing of Merlotte's, the bar where she works. Since Sam Merlotte is now known to be two-natured, suspicion falls immediately on the anti-shifters in the area. Sookie suspects otherwise, but her attention is divided when she realizes that her lover, Eric Northman, and his "child", Pam, are plotting to kill the vampire who is now their master. Gradually, Sookie is drawn into the plot - which is much more complicated than she knows.
Listen to more titles in the Sookie Stackhouse series.
©2011 Charlaine Harris, Inc. (P)2011 Recorded Books, LLC

Review:
Sookie, who can read minds of humans and to some degree the two-natured, has opened her home to her uncle and grandfather, two fae fairies who look about her age. Sookie seems to think that their nearness is increasing the fae qualities in her. While she ponders that Sookie is worrying about the loss of business at Merlot’s as some of the patrons are visiting a recently opened vampire bar. Business was down even before a fire bomb is thrown through the window.

Sookie learns that a two-natured female enemy has escaped from jail seeking revenge against Sookie. Sookie seeks help from her witch friend, Amelia, to re-strengthen protective wards around her home.

Adding to her troubles, Sookie’s boyfriend, vampire sheriff Eric, is struggling with the competition from the new vampire regent who is doing everything he can to encroach on Eric’s territory. Adding insult to injury, the regent has refused his permission for Eric’s ‘child’, Pam, to change a young woman who is dying. It is becoming clear that the two vampire leaders aren’t going to be able to share the area so plots for killing are working both ways. Sookie gets caught up in a plan to take out the regent even as she learns that Eric is keeping secrets that may break her heart.

I had stopped reading this series in 2010 and my recollection is that it had gotten a bit too racy plus the last title seemed a bit fractured. I apparently didn’t review book #10 when I read it. I am glad that I enjoyed revisiting these characters, including Sam, Eric, Bill and even Bubba. There is danger and death, as always seems to surround Sookie, the vampires and the two-natured, but I wasn’t offended by anything.

Although there are still plenty of open questions in the series, I appreciated the tension that remains with Eric’s dilemma at the end of this installment. I am also interested to find out what happens with the fae and the special stone that Sookie has found. So I’ll be getting the next book after April when I allow myself to buy books again – unless I add it on Audible before then.

I recommend reading this series in order for the best enjoyment and I recommend it in audio. Just be prepared for some sex in some of the volumes and violence in most of them. I did try to watch True Blood, the tv series based on the books, when that first came out but I found it too sexual and graphic for my tastes.

Audio Notes: I totally enjoy Johanna Parker as the narrator for this series. She does a great job portraying the Southern Sookie and the other characters. They each have an appropriate distinct voice that helps me to visualize the characters and enjoy the story more than just reading.

This title has been in my Audible library since September, 2012. This qualifies for COYER, TBR Double Dare, Audio Challenges and Alphabet Soup.