Audible by Book Review: You Have the Right to Remain Innocent by James Duane

I needed to listen to this book! So do you!

You Have the Right to Remain Innocent
By: James Duane
Narrated by: James Duane

Length: 2 hrs and 34 mins
Release date: 09-20-16
Publisher: Brilliance Audio
Genre: Civil Rights & Liberties, Constitution, Legal System
My Rating: 4.75 of 5.0 Overall; Story 4.75; Narration 4.75.

Publisher's Summary
Law professor James J. Duane became a viral sensation thanks to a 2008 lecture outlining the reasons why you should never agree to answer questions from the police - especially if you are innocent and wish to stay out of trouble with the law. In this timely, relevant, and pragmatic new book, he expands on that presentation, offering a vigorous defense of every citizen's constitutionally protected right to avoid self-incrimination. Getting a lawyer is not only the best policy, Professor Duane argues, it's also the advice law-enforcement professionals give their own kids.
Using actual case histories of innocent men and women exonerated after decades in prison because of information they voluntarily gave to police, Professor Duane demonstrates the critical importance of a constitutional right not well or widely understood by the average American. Reflecting the most recent attitudes of the Supreme Court, Professor Duane argues that it is now even easier for police to use your own words against you. This lively and informative guide explains what everyone needs to know to protect themselves and those they love.
©2016 James Joseph Duane. (P)2016 Brilliance Audio, all rights reserved.

Review:
I’m an attorney and I have heard the rules: don’t represent yourself, don’t ask questions you don’t know the answer to and don’t talk to the police. And of course, the last time I studied criminal law was in college – maanny years ago. So, I thought it would be helpful to listen to this book.

I believe in telling the truth…so why not be cooperative and answer questions? No! There are only two questions you answer when the police come calling – and you are to be respectful. Then you say four simple words – clearly. Not a variation of the right words – only the exact right phrase.

Duane uses real-to-life examples to support his arguments. And they do make good sense. I really do appreciate the advice. Still, I can see why it would be hard to follow. I do plan to make my grandchildren (the three teens) listen to this book. It is important and I recommend it to everyone!

Audio Notes: James Duane narrates his own work with a fine voice and sincere delivery. I was glad to be able to enjoy the short listen. (Although the print version may be good to keep around and share.)

Source: 3/3/22 Audible Sale $3.15. This qualifies for 2022Audiobook and 2022Alphabet goals.

Audible Book Review: The Keeper by Suzanne Woods Fisher

This is an interesting Amish romance story with a complication of heart decease.
The Keeper
A Novel
By: Suzanne Woods Fisher
Narrated by: Amy Rubinate

Series: Stoney Ridge Seasons, Book 1
Length: 9 hrs and 4 mins
Release date: 01-02-12
Publisher: Brilliance Audio
Genre: Amish, Contemporary, Romance
My Rating: 4.0 of 5.0 Overall; Story 4.0; Narration 4.0.

Publisher's Summary
Life on Windmill Farm hasn’t been the same since Julia Lapp’s father has had trouble with his heart. But that doesn’t stop Julia from hoping for a bright future. She has planned on marrying Paul Fisher since she was a girl. Now twenty-one, she looks forward to their wedding with giddy anticipation. But when Paul tells her he wants to postpone the wedding - again - she is determined to change his mind. She knows who is to blame for Paul’s sudden reluctance to wed: the Bee Man. Roman Troyer, the Bee Man, travels through the Amish communities of Ohio and Pennsylvania with his hives full of bees, renting them out to farmers in need of pollinators. A mysterious man who relishes his nomadic life, Roman especially enjoys bringing his bees to Stoney Ridge each year. But with Julia seriously at odds with him, Windmill Farm is looking decidedly less appealing.
Can Julia secure the future she’s always dreamed of? Or does God have something else in mind?
©2012 Suzanne Woods Fisher (P)2012 Brilliance Audio, Inc.

Review:
Julia Lapp, her younger sisters and younger brother have been struggling since their father suffered a heart attack. His strength and breathing are not recovering but his believes have made him refuse to be put on the waiting list for a heart transplant. Julia’s younger brother is a strong, sweet adolescent with learning disabilities. It is clear he will not be able to run the farm for the family without help.

The children’s uncle arrives to help, but he brings his own brand of openness. This causes some dismay in the community, especially with the mother of Julia’s intended fiancé, Paul. Paul had postponed their marriage a year ago but now Julia is busy making plans for their wedding in November. Julia is distressed and hurt when Paul calls the wedding off again. Julia believes that Paul has been influenced not only by his mother, but by the Bee Man, Roman Troyer.

Roman is a wanderer who moves his bees from community to community. He is a kind man, but suffered loss in his youth and has keeps himself emotionally apart from others. He developed a friendship with Mr. Lapp and cares about the struggles the family is experiencing. Roman decides to stay and help the Lapps even though Julia is annoyed with him and doesn’t fancy him like most young ladies.

Mr. Lapp’s condition deteriorates and Roman and Julia try to convince him to agree to accept a heart transplant. A soft friendship begins to develop between Roman and Julia as they work together. The story progresses as the reader wonders if the family can hold on to the farm and whether Julia and Paul will get back together.

I enjoyed the distinct characters and the unique aspects of the beekeeper. I also learning information about congestive heart failure that helped me to better understand my husband’s failing condition. The medical issue provides a different conflict which added to the story interest. I recommend this to fans of gentle Amish romance.

Audio Notes: Amy Rubinate does a very nice job with the narration. She provides clear voices and gentle emotions. I am glad I had this to listen to.

Source: 4/18/17 Audible Sale $5.95. This qualifies for 2022TBR, 2022Audiobook, and 2022Alphabet goals.

Audio Book Review: Hide and Seek by Mary Burton

This reminded me why I like this author. It is a good thriller with romance.
Hide and Seek
By Mary Burton
Narrated By: Christina Traister

Duration: 9 h 57 min
Release date: 04-23-19
Publisher: Brilliance Audio
Genre: Mystery, Police Procedural, Romantic Suspense
My Rating: 4.25 of 5.0 Overall; Story 4.25; Narration 4.25.

Summary:
She’s hunting. He’s watching.
Special Agent Macy Crow is a survivor. After a vicious hit-and-run nearly kills her, she gets right back to work, and now she’s gunning for a spot on the FBI’s elite profiling team. As an audition, she offers to investigate the recently discovered bones of Tobi Turner, a high school girl who disappeared fifteen years ago.
While investigating with local sheriff Mike Nevada, a former colleague and onetime lover, Macy discovers a link between Tobi’s case and several others that occurred around the same time as her disappearance. As Macy interviews victims and examines old cases, she uncovers a sinister picture of a stalker who graduated to sexual assault—and then murder.
Macy and Nevada race to put this monster behind bars before he can come out of hiding. But the murderer’s had years to hone his skills, and soon Macy herself becomes a target. She’s no stranger to pain and terror, but will Macy’s first profiling case be her last?

Review:
Special Agent Macy is still recovering from a hit and run but she is persistent that she wants to get back to work at the FBI. She hops to get a spot on the FBI’s elite profiling team. She is approved to investigate a recently discovered body of a teenage girl who disappeared fifteen years ago. Macy will be investigating with local sheriff, Mike Nevada, with whom she has a short history.

Very quickly Macy connects the death of the teen with other cases of death and rape that occurred in the same time period. Macy is building a profile that discovers that the perpetrator may still be attacking and killing young women of the same type. As Macy and Nevada push to interview those close to the disappearances fifteen years earlier, they are clearly stirring up facts some community members don’t want stirred.

Then the killer strikes the investigation team and it is clear that Macy is his next target. Will the team be able to uncover the criminal before he adds more trophies to his collection?

I enjoyed the suspense and profiling aspects of this story. The author created a mystery with good suspects and peripheral accomplices. Meanwhile, the relationship between Macy and Nevada is developed nicely. This story felt like it might be part of a series, and I searched to find it is Criminal Profiler #4. I am glad that I revisited this author after many years and I will be glad to pick up more of her titles. I recommend this author and book to fans of police procedural and romantic suspense.

Audio Notes: I enjoyed the narration by Christina Traister. She provided distinct voices and energy that fit the story. I had some concern that parts of the audio seemed to get louder at times, but I would put that on production, rather than the narrator. I still enjoyed the audio and would listen to more stories narrated by Ms. Traister.

Source: 9/22/19 Audiobooks.com Two for One Credit. This qualifies for 2022TBR, 2022Audiobook, and 2022Alphabet goals.

Audible Book Review: It Happened One Autumn: Wallflower Series #2 by Lisa Kleypas

This historical romance is nice and moved along quickly.

It Happened One Autumn: Wallflower Series #2
by Lisa Kleypas
Narrated by: Rosalyn Landor

Series: Wallflowers #2
Length: 11h 29m
Published January 8th 2010 by Brilliance Audio
Genre: Historical Romance, Victorian
My Rating: 4.25 of 5.0 Overall; Story 4.0; Narration 4.75.

It happened at the Ball….
Where beautiful but bold Lillian Bowman quickly learned that her independent American ways weren’t entirely “the thing.” And the most disapproving of all was insufferable, snobbish, and impossible Marcus, Lord Westcliff, London’s most eligible aristocrat.
It happened in the garden…
When Marcus shockingly – and dangerously – swept her into his arms. Lillian was overcome with a consuming passion for a man she didn’t even like. Time stood still; it was as if no one else existed…thank goodness they weren’t caught very nearly in the act!
It happened one autumn.…
Marcus was a man in charge of his own emotions, a bedrock of stability. But with Lillian, every touch was exquisite torture, every kiss an enticement for more. Yet how could he consider taking a woman so blatantly unsuitable…as his bride.
Published January 8th 2010 by Brilliance Audio.

Review:
Lillian Bowman is a beautiful, head strong American daughter of a man who made his money in soap manufacturing. Lillian and her sister, Daisy, struggled to be accepted by society in New York and will struggle in London too unless they get an aristocratic sponsor. Lillian met Lord Marcus Westcliff at a ball, and they immediately disliked each other. She sees him as snobbish and insufferable. He sees her as crass and overly bold, especially after he comes across her and her friends playing rounders in their undergarments.

Marcus wants to do business with Lillian’s father, so the Bowman family has been included in a two-week house party at his lavish estate. He hopes that he can avoid the daughters, especially headstrong Lillian. He finds the American sisters playing rounders again, this time with their clothes with his stable hands. This time he steps up to try to help Lillian’s bat swing. They soon realize that they need to sneak back into the house and Marcus leads them along a back path. Nearing the door, Daisy escapes into the house but Marcus and Lillian are trapped behind a hedgerow as a group of men pass by. Inexplicably Marcus finds himself mesmerized by this inappropriate young woman and begins kissing her. This begins a reluctant draw between the pair who keep trying to tell themselves and each other that they don’t like the other who would be totally unsuitable.

Marcus’ roguish friend, Lord St. Vincent is willing to play escort to Lillian to keep her out of the way of Marcus. As the days go on it seems that St. Vincent may have plans of his own.

I enjoyed the reluctant relationship between the protagonists. The conflict showcases some class bigotry which is interesting. I was expecting and hoping for a bit of intrigue which finally appears in the last part of the book. I also enjoyed the elements involving Lillian’s skill at distinguishing scents which plays a fun role in the story. My only disappointment with this second book was there were more sexual encounters than were necessary for my taste. Still, it was a quick and mostly enjoyable listen. I have the next book, Devil in Winter, in print but I may have to pick up the audio.

Audio Notes: Rosalyn Landor is always a joy to listen to. She provides wonderful voices and seamless narration that enhances the story for me.

4.5 Source: Audible September 2021. This qualifies for 2021TBR, 2021Audiobook and my season goals.

Wallflowers Series #1: Secrets of a Summer Night by Lisa Kleypas; my rating 4.5

Audible Book Review: The Bone Farm: A Jane Hawk Case File by Dean Koontz

This is a pretty gritty, good thriller.

The Bone Farm: A Jane Hawk Case File
By: Dean Koontz
Narrated by: Elisabeth Rodgers, James Anderson Foster

Series: Jane Hawk, Book 0.5
Length: 2 hrs and 1 min
Release date: 04-25-18
Publisher: Brilliance Audio
Genre: Suspense, Thriller
My Rating: 4.0 of 5.0 Overall; Content 4.0; Narration 4.0.

Publisher's Summary
An audio original novella featuring bestselling author Dean Koontz’s compelling new heroine, Jane Hawk. From the case files of the former FBI agent before she became the nation’s most wanted fugitive - The Bone Farm details a desperate man-hunt for a serial killer before he murders again.
Katherine Haskell, a young college co-ed is on her way back to school, but she never makes it there. Instead, she becomes the latest prey of the rapist and murderer dubbed by the tabloids the “Mother Hater.” He is a twisted soul who kidnaps young girls for pleasure then discards them.
Katherine is missing, but she’s not yet dead. FBI agents Jane Hawk and her partner Gary Burkett must descend into the hell of this killer’s mind to solve the case before it is too late. The question is - will they both get out alive?
©2018 Dean Koontz (P)2018 Brilliance Publishing, Inc., all rights reserved.

Review:
Jane Hawk is an FBI agent hunting down a serial killer who preys on young women. The man is known as the “Mother Hater” and Jane and her partner, Gary, are closing in. But they will find a surprise when they face the true killer.

This is a quick story that introduces Jane as a skilled agent who uses her acumen to avoid being trapped and is able to use her weapon if needed. There are chapters from the view of the killer, so the reader has gritty information that Jane and her partner don’t. How the FBI, particularly Jane, handle the interview and resulting actions is engaging. It has been years since I have read Koontz. This reminds me that he delivers a gripping story but often with dark, gritty elements.

I've been eyeing books in this series, so I am glad to listen to a prequel to get a better feel for the protagonist. I note the blurb refers to Jane as a “former” FBI agent who became the nation’s most wanted fugitive. That is intriguing and makes me want to read more in the series. I recommend this short thriller to fans of Koontz and fans of dark suspense.

Audio Notes: Elisabeth Rodgers and James Anderson Foster do a fine job with the narration. They captured the foibles of the characters and made the story more enjoyable for me.

Source: August 2021 Audible Plus. This qualifies for 2021Audiobook goal.

Audible Book Review: Hour of Need by Melinda Leigh

This is an easy listen mystery with romance.

Hour of Need
Scarlet Falls, Book 1
By: Melinda Leigh
Narrated by: Cris Dukehart

Length: 10 hrs and 13 mins
Release date: 12-09-14
Publisher: Brilliance Audio
Genre: Mystery, Romantic Suspense
My Rating: 4.25 of 5.0 Overall; Content 4.0; Narration 4.5.

Publisher's Summary
A 2015 Daphne du Maurier Award finalist from Wall Street Journal bestselling author Melinda Leigh.
While fighting in Afghanistan, Major Grant Barrett receives devastating news: his brother and sister-in-law have been murdered in Scarlet Falls, the sleepy suburb of Grant’s youth. Emotionally scarred from war, the career soldier returns home on emergency leave to temporarily care for his orphaned nephew and niece. But when someone tries to kidnap the kids and their teenage babysitter, Grant knows it’s not a random act…and neither were the murders.
Already devastated by her neighbors’ violent deaths, Ellie Ross is shattered by the attempted abduction of her teenage daughter so she desperately turns to Grant for help. As they navigate a deadly search for the truth, they struggle with growing feelings for each other and Grant’s impending return to Afghanistan.
But time is running out. The killer is growing bolder by the hour, and Ellie and Grant must find him before the children become his next victims.
Bestselling author Melinda Leigh delivers another gritty mystery simmering with spine-tingling passion in this first Scarlet Falls novel.
©2014 Melinda Leigh (P)2014 Brilliance Audio, all rights reserved

Review:
Major Grant Barrett is given emergency leave to return home after his brother, Lee, and sister-in-law, Kate, are murdered in the streets of Scarlet Falls. Grant needs to take charge of his orphaned six-year-old nephew, Carson, and 4-months-old, colicky niece, Faith. He is relieved to have the help from his neighbors, Ellie Ross, her mother and her teenage daughter, Julia.

Ellie is a legal assistant who worked for Lee and she is aware that Lee had taken on a controversial civil case. The case was the result of a suicide of a high school student involved in an ice-skating club who was allegedly being mercilessly bullied by two other girls on the skate team. The managing partner at the firm directs Ellie to find the case file, and any others that Lee had at home, and bring them back to the office. Before Ellie gets a chance to try to gather the office files, she is accosted by a man with a gun who threatens to kill her mother and daughter if Ellie doesn’t deliver the civil case file to the blackmailer. Ellie would like to trust Grant with her secret but she is too afraid to risk her family.

Grant and his high finance lawyer sister, Hannah, are staying at Lee’s home with the children, while a third brother/Uncle Mac, floats in and out to help. The group is not aware that the house is under surveillance until Grant comes home to find the house ransacked. A few days later a man tries to kidnap Carson while Julia is with the children at the park. Now Grant is determined to uncover Ellie’s secrets and to track down his brother’s murderer.

Grant and Ellie are drawn to each other but are reluctant to indulge their attraction since he is a career military man expected to return to Afghanistan within a month. She has experienced abandonment in her youth and doesn’t want to put herself or her daughter through that loss. Still, Grant and Ellie find themselves seeking comfort as they try to keep their families alive and safe.

This is what I consider an easy romantic suspense. I was glad to listen to this as a change to the sci fi genre which I have been into. The story is not heavy on action although Grant does get a chance to show off some of his soldiering skills. The bullying issue is sad, and the crime has some good twists. I enjoyed the mix of family, mystery, and not too heavy romance. I would read more by Ms. Leigh and I recommend this to fans of mystery romance.

Audio Notes: I think this is my first experience with Cris Dukehart as a narrator although she appears to be a prolific narrator. I enjoyed her clear, skilled presentation. She provides distinct voices and inflection fitting the scenes. The narration enhanced my enjoyment of the story.

Source: 12/13/2019 Audible Member Sale $5.24. This qualifies for 2021TBR and 2021Audiobook goals.

Audible Book Review: The Kasari Nexus: Rho Agenda Assimilation, Book 1 by: Richard Phillips

This is full of interesting alien and human challenges. It is first in a spin off series, not the first with the characters.

The Kasari Nexus: Rho Agenda Assimilation, Book 1
by: Richard Phillips
Narrated by: Alexander Cendese

Series: Rho Agenda Assimilation, Book 1
Length: 10 hrs and 57 mins
Publisher: Brilliance Audio
Genre: Alien, First Contact, Sci Fi, Technothriller
My Rating: 4.0 of 5.0 Overall; Story 4.0; Narration 4.25.

Publisher's Summary
Jennifer Smythe escapes Earth's invasion by the insidious Kasari race, hijacks an alien starship, and survives the deadly passage through a wormhole. But escape is short-lived....
When Jennifer emerges on the new world of Scion, she is confronted by the same deadly enemy. Now the Kasari have sided with the planet's angel-like elite against the warrior underclass, but with the intent of ultimately ruling both. And when Jennifer is captured by the brutish Koranthians, her alien-enhanced abilities make her a crucial asset in battling the Kasari and their winged allies.
Back on a divided Earth, Jennifer's brother, Mark, and Jack "the Ripper" Gregory wage their own war against the Kasari. As the global government welcomes the extraterrestrials, Mark, Jack, and their rebel faction seek to use the powerful mind-altering skills gained from the Kasari's sworn enemies to repel the would-be conquerors. But faced with the might of Earth's ruling forces, has the cause already been lost?
©2016 Richard Phillips (P)2016 Brilliance Audio, Inc.

Review:
Jennifer Smythe, who is now alien enhanced, and her captain, a friend whose body has suffered through scientific treatments, are working on an alien spaceship when the captain inadvertently activates the ship and hurls them into space. The pair scramble to survive and control the ship that is apparently heading off to its home territory. Eventually they land on a planet to resupply. Initially all seems optimistic but then Jennifer is captured by enemy forces. The Koranthian warlord begins to admire his prisoner as Jennifer uses her alien-enhanced skills to survive and even give aid.

Meanwhile, back on earth, Jennifer’s brother, Mark, his wife Heather have received alien enhancements too. They are on the run with their friends Jack (“the Ripper”, his wife Janet and their gifted son. This group are being hunted by several groups seeking to stop their rebellion against the government which has chosen to welcome the alien beings, the Kasari. Can this team survive the multiple attacks from foes with all the resources of the government behind them?

Although this is the first in a series it becomes clear quickly that this continues characters from a prior series. This caused confusion as the book started off at a brisk pace without a lot of background to bring a new reader up to speed. It took me a while to begin to care about the characters but, ultimately, I liked them. There is a lot of alien tech and intrigue, as well as battle scenes that kept the book interesting. I think I would like to go back to the prior series before moving on with this one. I liked the writing and creativity and recommend the author and book with the caveat of it being a spin off.

Audio Notes: Alexander Cendese does a good job as the narrator. He provides strong voices for the characters that added to the entertainment value of the story. I am glad that I listened to this.

Source: 3/18/19 Audible purchase for $1.99 since I had the ebook. This qualifies for 2021TBR, 2021Audiobook and 2021Alphabet (Audio) goals.

Audible Book Review: You're Next by Gregg Hurwitz

This is a gripping suspense thriller.
You're Next
By: Gregg Hurwitz
Narrator: Scott Brick

Duration: 14 hrs and 1 min
Release date: 07-05-11
Publisher: Brilliance Audio
Genre: Crime thriller, Suspense
My Rating: 4.25 of 5.0 Overall; Story 4.25; Narration 4.25.

Publisher's Summary
Mike Wingate had a rough childhood  —  he was abandoned at a playground at four years old and raised in foster care. No one ever came to claim him, and he has only a few, fragmented memories of his parents. Now, as an adult, Mike is finally living the life he had always wanted  —  he’s happily married to Annabel, the woman of his dreams; they have a precocious eight-year-old daughter, Kat; and his construction company is about to finish a “green” housing development that will secure a solid future for them all. Then the unimaginable happens: Something from Mike’s own past, a past he doesn’t even remember, comes back to visit terror upon him and his family. Menacing characters show up and begin threatening Mike, and when he reports them, the police seem more interested in Mike’s murky past than in investigating or protecting his young family. Now, with Mike, his wife, and their daughter suddenly under attack from all sides, Mike must turn to Shep, a truly dangerous man  —  and Mike’s only true friend  —  from their childhood days together in foster care. Together, the two of them will do whatever it takes to protect Mike’s family against the hidden men behind the terrifying warning “You’re Next!”
©2011 Gregg Hurwitz (P)2011 Brilliance Audio, Inc.

Review:
Mike Wingate has had life-long issues from being abandoned by his father at age four and thinking terrible things happened to his mother. He struggled through foster care barely staying out of jail until his teen years when he helped a friend. He learned an important lesson and went on to shape his own future. Now Mike is a family man with a wife and eight-year-old daughter he feels blessed to have. He is a successful entrepreneur who just completed a ‘green’ subdivision. Except he discovered a problem days before he and the governor were to receive a reward before all the news sources. Shortly after his face appears on newspapers around the states, Mike becomes a target. He doesn’t know why, but he is fighting to save himself and his family. When the police authorities focus on him instead of his attacker, Mike calls the only man he can trust- his childhood friend, Shep.

Mike, Shep and his family are on the run from the sadistic killers who seem to have the upper hand. Mike must find a way to change from prey to hunter. He gets help from another friend, Hank, a PI who has been trying for years to locate Mike’s parents. It would help if they could figure out who or why the killers are so intent on taking out Mike…and his family.

The story starts a little slowly but soon gripped me so I was anxious to know that Mike would survive and save his wife and daughter. The author has chapters to reveal the sick brutality of the killers, but it isn’t made clear who hired them as it is just their boss/big man on the phone. I really like the author’s twist of plot that is revealed with the reason for the vendetta. Even then, the superior powers that be pose a huge risk to Mike and his family that keeps the reader/listener on edge until the end.

This is the second book (Orphan X) I have listened to by Hurwitz and it sure won’t be the last. He delivers a thrilling ride that holds my attention. I recommend this book and author to fans of mystery thrillers.

Audio Notes: Scott Brick has a distinct narration skill. I think his voice and energy work really well for this mystery thriller. He carries the characters, male, female, creepy killers and the beleaguered protagonist. The audio added to my engagement with the book and I will look to listen to more by this author and narrator.

Source: Audible 8/31/2017 sale $4.95. This qualifies for 2020TBR, 2020Audiobook and 2020Alphabet ("X") goals.

Audio Book Review: An Angel for Christmas by Heather Graham

I was very pleased by this easy listen with suspense and guardian angels at Christmas.

An Angel for Christmas
Written By: Heather Graham
Narrated By: Christina Traister

Duration: 5 hours 48 minutes
Date: September 2011
Publisher: Brilliance Audio
Genre: Christmas, Mystery, Romance
My Rating: 4.25 of 5.0 Overall; Story 4.25; Narration 4.25.

Summary:
Christmas has never brought out the best in the MacDougal family. Still, year after year, they gather together in the Blue Ridge Mountains to try to make the season merry and bright. But this year is an especially strained one, with Shayne's impending divorce, Morwenna's slavish devotion to work and Bobby's reluctance to face what life has to offer. They've never felt less like a family. Then, in the midst of a snowy sibling shouting match, a mysterious stranger appears. He could be a criminal, a madman - or something far more unexpected. Despite their fears and the growing danger in the dark woods around them, the MacDougals take a leap of faith. But when another stranger arrives on the mountainside, they don't know which of them to believe. One of these men can't be trusted. And one is about to bring Christmas into their hearts.

Review:
Morwenna has traveled home even though she expects the usual family tensions. Her older brother, Shayne has worked too hard as a doctor and is facing a divorce and his first Christmas without his children. Meanwhile the youngest sibling, Bobby, is home from college and trying to figure out how to tell his father that he wants to change majors … again. When Shayne arrives the family is thrilled that his son and daughter are with him because his soon to be ex-wife decided to take a trip with a new beau. Before Morwenna and her siblings get back inside, they discover a man moaning on the edge of their woods.

Their father steps out with a rifle aimed at the stranger. An argument ensues, as Shayne is not going to leave the injured man in the snow. They finally agree to allow the man in the house out of the cold. The man, Gabe, claims that he is a police officer who has been attacked by the man he was chasing. In the fight he lost his weapon and the criminal has traded his clothes and IDs. As they share the magic of Christmas Eve and Christmas morning, Gabe shares warm situations and encouragement with the family, especially winning the friendship and unwavering support of Morwenna’s niece, Genieve. Then another stranger, wearing a police officer’s uniform, shows up insisting that the family is in danger. The family is confused and reluctant when the pushing man tries to take Gabe into custody. Will the family be able to get to the local pub to get help deciding which man to trust before something bad happens?

I was drawn into the story from the first paragraphs where the cop is chasing the criminal. I thought later in the story that it might have been interesting if the good guy and bad guy hadn’t been revealed. Still there was sufficient suspense, sweetness and the hint of romance to keep me engaged. I enjoyed the light mystery for the family, the Christmas magic, Genieve’s charming birthday wishes and the angel angle. I recommend this as a quick Christmas read/listen.

Audio Notes: Christina Traister does a nice job with the narration. I like the voices and the energy. The narration made this a nice, easy listen.

Source: 2019 September Christmas deals $3.00. This qualifies for 2020TBR and 2020Audiobook goals.

Audible Book Review: The Tracker, Sam Callahan, Book 1, by Chad Zunker

This is good suspense.

The Tracker
Sam Callahan, Book 1
By: Chad Zunker
Narrated by: Noah Berman
Series: Sam Callahan, Book 1
Length: 9 hrs and 12 mins
Release date: 02-14-17
Publisher: Brilliance Audio
Genre: Political Thriller, Suspense
My Rating: 4.0 of 5.0 Overall; Story 4.0; Narration 4.0.

Publisher's Summary
Trust no one. Sam Callahan learned this lesson from a childhood spent in abusive foster care, on the streets, and locked in juvie. With the past behind him and his future staked on law school, he is moonlighting as a political tracker, paid to hide in crowds and shadow candidates, recording their missteps for use by their opponents. One night, after an anonymous text tip, Sam witnesses a congressional candidate and a mysterious blonde in a motel indiscretion that ends in murder, recording it all on his phone.
Now Sam is a target. Set up to take the fall and pursued by both assassins and the FBI, he is forced to go on the run. Using the street skills forged during his troubled youth - as well as his heightened mental abilities - Sam goes underground until he can uncover who is behind the conspiracy and how far up it goes. A taut thriller with an unforgettable young hero, The Tracker is a heart-stopping debut from an exciting new voice.
Revised edition: This edition of The Tracker includes editorial revisions.
©2017 Chad Zunker (P)2016 Brilliance Audio, all rights reserved.

Review:
Sam Callahan was delivered to a hospital on a freezing night on his first birthday. He spent 15 troubled years in the foster care system suffering various degrees of abuse. He gets caught in a crime as a 15-year-old and spends some months in the juvenile system. Finally, he gets a helping hand which gets him back on the right track. At age 24, Sam is on his way to earning a law degree.

To earn money while in school, Sam works as a political “tracker”, a person who quietly follows a candidate to capture and report all actions. The information is fed each night to the tracker bosses who examine the material for negative kernels. Sam is winding down one night when he gets a text that tells him to go to a particular location at a specific time. Sam doesn’t know who sent the text but he shows up and witnesses his candidate subject with a woman who is not his wife. As he watches and records from the dark, a murder occurs. Sam races to hide in a hotel room contacting his superior to report the information.

When his boss finally arrives, he takes Sam’s phone and sends the video to a website other than the usual reporting site. Before they can determine what to do next the man is shot through the window. Sam is on the run using his hard-won street skills to barely stay ahead of the men trying to kill him. He can trust no one, not even the FBI when they begin to search for him after a third man is found dead!

This is a story that is tense and suspenseful from beginning to end. The author tells the story in first person, with background chapters, explaining Sam’s childhood and youth, in between the intense scenes. These show his struggles, his serious relationship and even his reactions upon finding his birth mother. I found this writing format to work well even though I was often ready to know the next steps that fugitive Sam would take. Fortunately, Sam has some friends to call upon who have skills to help. One is a whiz computer hacker and another is a respected legal professor. The most important person who Sam seeks to help him, is his former girl friend who is a brilliant and determined reporter.

I liked the intensity of the suspense but felt there were some gaps in reality. I couldn’t quite figure out how cash-strapped Sam kept coming up with funds along his journey. Also, it was a stretch that Sam went to certain locations and wasn’t caught there by the assassins or authorities. On the other hand, he had the help of a mysterious interloper and the whole story takes place in less than three days.

I liked Sam as a character trying to make a good life after an awful childhood. The mystery was different and interesting. I expect I will pick up the next two books. I recommend this to readers who enjoy a good murder thriller.

Audio Notes: Noah Berman does a good job with the narration. He gives the characters distinct voices and shares the story with strong energy. The narration help me stay immersed in the story and I recommend the audio version.

Source: 1/14/2018 Audible Daily Deal $1.95. This qualifies for 2020TBR and 2020Audiobook goals.

Audible Book Review: Archangel One by Evan Currie

This is a fast listening, good marine space sci-fi.
Archangel One
Archangel One, Book 1
By: Evan Currie
Narrated by: Stephen Dexter


Length: 8 hrs and 21 mins
Unabridged Audiobook
Release date: 09-01-19
Language: English
Publisher: Brilliance Audio
Genre: Military Space Sci-Fi, Sci-Fi, Space Marine
My Rating: 4.5 of 5.0 Overall; Story 4.5; Narration 4.5.

Publisher's Summary
An elite squadron must go undercover behind enemy lines in this thrilling new space adventure from the author of the Odyssey One series.
Humanity has reached an uneasy truce with the Empire - but unless the allies bring the fight to the enemy, extinction is all but assured. In preparation for the inevitable next war, Commander Stephen Michaels is at the helm of the Archangel Squadron, and his orders are simple: go rogue.
Disguised as mercenaries, Commander Michaels and the Archangels seek valuable intelligence on their imposing foe. Their mission takes them deep into uncharted territory, where they make inroads with the Empire, fiercely guarding their true identities and purpose. Fighting for the enemy goes against everything they stand for, but these are desperate times.
As their deception increases, so does the risk. With the Empire’s deadliest secrets within reach, Commander Michaels and the Archangels accept a mission that will take them even deeper into the Imperial fold. They know all too well that one wrong step won’t just end their lives - it could end their entire civilization.
©2019 by Cleigh Currie. (P)2019 Brilliance Publishing, Inc., all rights reserved.

Review:
Commander Michaels, known as “Steph” has been selected to head a new squadron of specially formed ships with the ability to go into space “undercover”. The goal is to infiltrate the outer colonies as a privateer fleet in order to slip into a position to get information on the Empire.

Humanity forces have established a moderate truce with the brutal Empire regime, but they don’t expect it to last. Humanity needs to get more details to protect the species.

Steph and his squadron are fast and willing to push the edges of safety to make a name for their rogue fleet. They step in to help a planetary force when a larger neighbor attacks. The Archangels are able to prevail but at the end of the battle, they realize an enemy Imperial Fleet of the Empire is bearing down on the stricken ships. The Imperial ships do not leave survivors, so Steph decides to quickly save the crews and one of the ships of the defeated attackers. The race out of the system to get away from the Imperial lasers involves an edge of the seat, last-minute desperate maneuver.

I enjoyed the intrigue and the fast action of this story. Step is already a daredevil pilot but he pushes himself and his team to the edge of safety with his actions. Fortunately, he has a whiz of a technician along for the mission who helps save his backside. I enjoyed the camaraderie among the squadron pilot leaders.

I didn’t realize that this series is a branch off from the Odyssey series. I have read book 1 of the first series and have book 2 on my Audible shelf. I plan to pick that up after I read book 2 of this Archangel series. I recommend this author and the series for readers who enjoy military space action sci-fi.

Audio Notes: I felt that Stephen Dexter did a good job with the narration. He provides different voices and accents for the many characters. I didn’t notice any disruptive issues as have been mentioned in other reviews. I enjoyed the listen as good entertainment.

Source: 2/29/2020 Free Audible with Unlimited selection. This qualifies for my 2020Audiobook goal.

Audible Book Review: Orphan X by Gregg Hurwitz

This is a remarkably entertaining suspense with good twists.

Orphan X
By: Gregg Hurwitz
Narrated by: Scott Brick
Series: Evan Smoak, Book 1

Series: Evan Smoak, Book 1
Length: 11 hrs and 15 mins
Unabridged Audiobook
Release date: 01-19-16
Language: English
Publisher: Brilliance Audio
Genre: Crime Thriller, Suspense
My Rating: 4.5 of 5.0 Overall; Story 4.5; Narration 4.5.

Publisher's Summary
The Nowhere Man is a legendary figure spoken about only in whispers. It's said that when he's reached by the truly desperate and deserving, the Nowhere Man can and will do anything to protect and save them.
But he's no legend.
Evan Smoak is a man with skills, resources, and a personal mission to help those with nowhere else to turn. He's also a man with a dangerous past. Chosen as a child, he was raised and trained as part of the off-the-books black box Orphan program, designed to create the perfect deniable intelligence assets - i.e. assassins. He was Orphan X. Evan broke with the program, using everything he learned to disappear.
Now, however, someone is on his tail. Someone with similar skills and training. Someone who knows Orphan X. Someone who is getting closer and closer. And will exploit Evan's weakness - his work as The Nowhere Man - to find him and eliminate him.
Grabbing the listener from the beginning, Orphan X is a masterful thriller, the first in Gregg Hurwitz's electrifying new series featuring Evan Smoak.
©2016 Gregg Hurwitz (P)2015 Brilliance Audio, all rights reserved.

Review:
Evan Smoak was chosen as an orphaned child to become Orphan X. He was raised and trained in an off-the-books Orphan program creating assassins. Unlike most of the Orphans, Evan’s handler wanted to help keep him ‘human’. When events cut Evan off from the program, he chose to become The Nowhere Man. When a truly needy and deserving person calls, Evan responds to help the innocents of the world.

Evan has recently completed one of his good deed rescues and expects a gap before the next call. But a call comes in sooner than he expects. Although he queries the caller he cannot help wondering if this is legitimate. When he meets her and barely dodges a sniper bullet his suspicions increase. But he has rules he tries to follow and one of the most important is to protect the innocents.

Evan has to live a pretty solitary life to protect his secrets. Yet he finds himself being drawn in by others in his apartment building determining that he must step in to help them, even while he is paranoid about hiding his own identity.

A cat and mouse chase ensues as another assassin team has targeted Evan and is threatening innocent people to get him into the open. Suddenly Evan is facing other assassins who are trained as well as he is, including the legendary Orphan O. But even Orphan O has a handler and Evan has to discover who wants him dead, assuming he can stay alive to find out.

I was quickly drawn in by the detailed behaviors of Evan and enjoyed learning more about his history that is shared through flashbacks. He is not just a cold-blooded killer but has a complex and sometimes conflicting morality. There is plenty of action and interesting set up of the safe houses and protective measures needed to keep an assassins cover protected. I enjoyed this thriller and will be picking up more of the series. I recommend this to readers who enjoy good assassin suspense.

Audio Notes: Scott Brick is a good choice for suspense narration. He manages to convey mystery while clearly presenting the complex character of the assassin. The narration helped me to enjoy this suspense.

Source: February 2017 $4.95 Sale purchase at Audible. This qualifies for 2019TBR and 2019Audiobook goals. I may have to use this for my "X" alphabet title this year.

Audible Book Review: Drums, Girls, and Dangerous Pie by Jordan Sonnenblick

This is a surprisingly touching listen!

Drums, Girls, and Dangerous Pie
By: Jordan Sonnenblick
Narrated by: Joel Johnstone

Series: Drums, Girls & Dangerous Pie, Book 1
Length: 4 hrs and 21 mins
Unabridged Audiobook
Release date: 02-20-11
Language: English
Publisher: Brilliance Audio
Genre: Teen & Young Adult, Cancer, Diseases, Humor
My Rating: 5.0 of 5.0 Overall; Story 5.0; Narration 5.0.

Publisher's Summary
Thirteen-year-old Steven has a totally normal life (well, almost): He plays drums in the All-Star Jazz Band, has a crush on the hottest girl in school (who doesn’t know he’s alive), frequently finds himself sitting across from his school counselor (who bribes him with candy), and is constantly annoyed by his five-year-old brother, Jeffrey (who is cuter than cute). Oh, Steven has parents, too (the kind that embarrass him). But when Jeffrey gets sick, Steven’s world is turned upside down as he is forced to deal with his brother’s illness, his parents’ attempts to keep the family in one piece, the band, overdue homework, girls, and of course, Dangerous Pie (yes, you have to listen to the book to find out what that is).
In a debut that has won raves, Jordan Sonnenblick digs deep into the heart of a family in crisis with humor, hope, and impressive sensitivity.
©2005 Jordan Sonnenblick (P)2011 Brilliance Audio, Inc.

Review:
Steven is a ‘mostly’ normal 13-year-old with two working parents and a sort of pesky younger brother, 5-year-old Jeffrey. Steven plays drums in the school jazz band, stares at the back of the popular girl he’s crushing on and he finds friendship with the young piano player who is always kind to him. Things are going along fine in eighth grade until Jeffrey is diagnosed with Leukemia.

Steven’s mother has to leave work and the family struggles with treatments, care and costs. His parents don’t have much time for Steven who continues to put forth a good front. But in truth Steven is shutting down at school where no one knows why. His teachers send him to the school counselor who bribes him with candy to encourage him to talk. The only time Steven gets away from his thoughts is when he is in the groove playing his drums.

Then one day Steven’s mother gets sick and he and his dad have to rush Jeffrey to the hospital. Now Steven sees a whole new view and starts to open up to his family and friends.

This wonderful story is told in pitch perfect first person. Jordan Sonnenblick does a remarkable job developing the characters, especially Steven. The story is extremely touching and even brought tears to my eyes. Don’t judge this by the cover or the title – it is well worth picking up and reading/listening!

Audio Notes: Joel Johnstone does a perfect narration. Just as the story is pitch perfect, the narration is pitch perfect. I am very glad that I picked this up on Audible.

Source: 4/30/2017 Audible Daily Deal $1.95. This qualifies for 2019TBR and 2019Audiobook goals.

Audible Book Review: Followed by Frost by Charlie N. Holmberg

I liked the fairy tale nature of this story.

Followed by Frost
By: Charlie N. Holmberg
Narrated by: Angela Dawe

Length: 7 hrs and 31 mins
Unabridged Audiobook
Release date: 09-22-15
Language: English
Publisher: Brilliance Audio
Genre: Fairy Tale, Fantasy, Romance, Teen, YA
My Rating: 4.25 of 5.0 Overall; Story 4.250; Narration 4.25.

Publisher's Summary
Seventeen-year-old Smitha has the wealth, status, and beauty that make her the envy of her town - until she rejects a strange man's marriage proposal, and disastrous consequences follow. Smitha becomes cursed, and frost begins to encompass everything she touches. Banished to the hills, hunted by villagers, and chilled to the very core of her soul, she finds companionship with Death, who longs to coax her into his isolated world. But Smitha's desire for life proves stronger than despair, and a newfound purpose gives her renewed hope. Will regrets over the past and an unexpected desire for a man she cannot touch be enough to warm Smitha's heart, or will Death forever still it?
©2015 Charlie N. Holmberg (P)2015 Brilliance Audio, all rights reserved

Review:
Young Smitha is self-absorbed, vain, proud, shrugs her chores and allows her sister to take the blame for some of her mischief. Her father has taken on a stranger to work in the family business. The dark, mysterious man is infatuated with Smitha even though she snubs him. He finally gets her alone to propose and she rejects him cruelly. Before disappearing, the angered man curses Smitha to be like her cold heart. Immediately she becomes chilled and frost spreads on everything she touches. If she stays in place the snows become relentless.

Smitha is sent away when it is feared that her remaining at home will bring death to her own family as well as the community where one young boy has already sickened and died. Smitha isn’t prepared to live in the wilds alone, but what choice does she have? Death invites her to become his companion but Smitha refuses that offer even as she struggles to stay alive.

After years wandering Smitha gets a chance to use her curse to help people. Even then, people fear her and she has to live in solitude. She begins to develop a relationship with a fierce warrior but circumstances beyond her curse will apparently keep them apart. Will there ever be a chance for Smitha to live without her curse? Will she succumb to Death’s offer so she won’t have to be alone?

Seventeen-year-old Smitha isn’t the most likeable girl. I did like her determination and strength to survive. I especially liked how her spirit and character grew. I was glad when she began to accept responsibility for her actions. Her warrior friend is a complex, attractive character and I found myself rooting for a way for them to find a way to be together.

I was impressed with the clean writing, imaginative settings for the plot and nice moral messages. I wasn’t quite sure what to expect from this story and I was pleased to enjoy it. I recommend it to readers (teens or older) who like fairy tale quality stories.

Audio Notes: Angela Dawe does a fine job with the narration. The reading is crisp and direct, with distinct male and female voices. I enjoyed the audio presentation.

Source: February 2017 Audible Daily Deal $2.95. This qualifies for 2019 TBR and 2019Audiobook goals.

Audible Book Review: Lone Wolf, F.B.I. K-9, Book 1, by Sara Driscoll

I like search dog stories and this has good suspense with a nice side of romance.
Lone Wolf, F.B.I. K-9, Book 1
By: Sara Driscoll
Narrated by: Angela Dawe

Series: F.B.I. K-9, Book 1
Length: 7 hrs and 19 mins
Unabridged Audiobook
Release date: 11-29-16
Language: English
Publisher: Brilliance Audio
Genre: K-9, Suspense, Terrorism Thriller
My Rating: 4.0 of 5.0 Overall; Story 4.0; Narration 4.0.

Publisher's Summary
In the first book in a thrilling new series, FBI Special Agent Meg Jennings and Hawk, her loyal search-and-rescue Labrador, must race against time as they zero in on one of the deadliest killers in the country....
Meg and Hawk are part of the FBI's elite K-9 unit. Hawk can sniff out bodies anywhere - living or dead - whether it's tracking a criminal or finding a missing person. When a bomb rips apart a government building on the National Mall in Washington, D.C., it takes all of the team's extensive search-and-rescue training to locate and save the workers and visitors buried beneath the rubble.
But even as the duo are hailed as heroes, a mad bomber remains at large, striking terror across the Eastern seaboard in a ruthless pursuit of retribution. As more bombs are detonated and the body count escalates, Meg and Hawk are brought in to a task force dedicated to stopping the unseen killer. But when the attacks spiral wide and any number of locations could be the next target, it will come down to a battle of wits and survival skills between Meg, Hawk, and the bomber they're tracking to rescue a nation from the brink of chaos.
©2016 Sara Driscoll. (P)2016 Brilliance Audio, all rights reserved. Scripture quotations taken from the New American Standard Bible®, © 1960, 1962, 1963, 1968, 1971, 1972, 1973, 1975, 1977, 1995 by The Lockman Foundation. Used by permission. (www.Lockman.org)

Review:
Meg, a former cop, and her trained Labrador, Hawk, are part of an FBI elite K-9 search and rescue team. Meg and her sister are active in rescuing dogs and training them for service use or just to be well behaved companions. The K-9 team is called in when a bomb traps people under the damaged Department Agriculture building. There were children visiting when the bombing occurred, so the K-9 team is desperate to locate survivors. Meg and Hawk work closely with firefighter, Todd Webb, to save an injured girl.

The search work is exhausting and a reporter happens to capture an image of Meg and Hawk after she leaves the site and collapses on a bench trying to recover her equilibrium. The photo angers the bomber as it takes focus away from his actions. He emails the reporter, Clay McCord, expressing his anger and intent to continue.

Meg is suspect of Clay’s connection with the bomber and makes an effort to meet him. They are meet at a dog park and set up a tentative agreement to share information. The bombings continue with horrendous consequences. Meg, Hawk and her team continue to pursue clues while Clay shares what information he can.

The disgruntled bomber escalates his attacks and Meg’s involvement may make her a personal target. The race is on for the FBI to locate the bomber before he can complete another major attack.

There are applicable search terms highlighted at the beginning of each chapter which I found interesting. I enjoyed the skills of Hawk as a search and rescue and attack dog. There is a strong bond with Meg as Hawk’s handler and the author shares emotional background resulting from Meg’s loss of a prior dog. Meg is a good character although I was a little surprised by the depth of her own anger. I like the connections with Clay and Todd which give the chance for further development in the series.

The story is fast-paced and moves along easily. I would get more books in the series. I recommend it to readers who like mysteries and K-9 elements.

Audio Notes: Angela Dawe does a fine job with the narration. She is able to give both the femail and male characters their own voices. I settled in and enjoyed the listen.

Source: November 2018 Audible Credit. This qualifies for 2019 TBR and 2019Audiobook goals.

Audible Book Review: Eye of the Needle by Ken Follett

This is a solid, engaging spy thriller.

Eye of the Needle
By: Ken Follett
Narrated by: Eric Lincoln

Length: 9 hrs and 16 mins
Unabridged Audiobook
Release date: 05-13-08
Language: English
Publisher: Brilliance Audio
Genre: Historical Thriller, Spy Thriller
My Rating: 4.25 of 5.0 Overall; Story 4.25; Narration 4.25.

Publisher's Summary
Edgar Award Winner, Best Novel, 1979
One enemy spy knows the secret of the Allies' greatest deception, a brilliant aristocrat and ruthless assassin - code name: "The Needle" - who holds the key to the ultimate Nazi victory.
Only one person stands in his way: a lonely Englishwoman on an isolated island, who is coming to love the killer who has mysteriously entered her life.
This is Ken Follett's unsurpassed and unforgettable masterwork of suspense, intrigue, and dangerous machinations of the human heart.
©1978 Ken Follett (P)1985 Brilliance Audio

Review:
The Needle, aka Faber, is one of the handful of German spies who has yet to be nabbed in London. He has been living as one invisible workman after another. He is careful to choose his personas, his housing and his employment to minimize suspicion. But if his disguise is at risk, he has few scruples in eliminating those who might expose him.

Faber meets with another German spy whom he believes to have been compromised. The man gives an important message to Faber who sets off to investigate the situation. Faber discovers the biggest deception of the Allies’ war strategy. He gets pictures and now has to get the pictures and his information back safely to Hitler. He is on the run with a dogged inspector hot on his tail.

Faber’s efforts to reach a U-boat rendezvous bring him to isolated Storm Island. One end of the island is occupied by a crippled pilot (David), his sad, conflicted wife (Lucy) and their child. An elderly shepherd lives on the other end of the island and the sheep are in between. Faber is prepared to kill everyone on the island if he has to, but he might be surprised by the resistance he faces.

This spy thriller starts a little slowly but Follet spends that time developing the characters. Not only the Faber, Lucy and David but also several of the authorities involved in the hunt for “the Needle”. Faber is such a precise spy that he stays a step ahead of his trackers. There were some direct sex scenes which weren’t necessary for me even though the scenes added to the depth of the characters I found the deceptive war strategy very interesting and I felt that Follet captured the language and somber tone of the setting. I especially enjoyed the tension of this story as it built to the dangerous climax.

I haven’t read Follet’s longer works but I see he has more WWII spy stories I might like. This may be an older story, but it is still a worthy spy thriller and especially recommended those who like reading in the WWII genre.

Audio Notes: Eric Lincoln does a good job with the narration. His accent fits the story and he provides distinct voices for Faber, the various Englishmen and even for Lucy and her son. The narration added to my enjoyment of this story.

Source: 2011 Audible purchase. This qualifies for 2019TBR and 2019Audiobook goal.

Audible Book Review: A Quiet Life in the Country by T E Kinsey

This is a nice, cozy historical mystery.
A Quiet Life in the Country
A Lady Hardcastle Mystery, Book 1
By: T E Kinsey
Narrated by: Elizabeth Knowelden

Series: Lady Hardcastle Mysteries, Book 1
Length: 7 hrs and 43 mins
Unabridged Audiobook
Release date: 10-04-16
Language: English
Publisher: Brilliance Audio
Genre: Amateur Sleuth, Cozy Mystery, Historical
My Rating: 4.25 of 5.0 Overall; Story 4.25; Narration 4.25.

Publisher's Summary
Lady Emily Hardcastle is an eccentric widow with a secret past. Florence Armstrong, her maid and confidante, is an expert in martial arts. The year is 1908 and they’ve just moved from London to the country, hoping for a quiet life.
But it is not long before Lady Hardcastle is forced out of her self-imposed retirement. There’s a dead body in the woods, and the police are on the wrong scent. Lady Hardcastle makes some enquiries of her own, and it seems she knows a surprising amount about crime investigation…
As Lady Hardcastle and Flo delve deeper into rural rivalries and resentment, they uncover a web of intrigue that extends far beyond the village. With almost no one free from suspicion, they can be certain of only one fact: there is no such thing as a quiet life in the country.
Revised edition: This edition of A Quiet Life In The Country includes editorial revisions.
©2016 T E Kinsey. (P)2016 Brilliance Audio, all rights reserved.

Review:
Flo has been lady’s maid and companion to Lady Emily Hardcastle for many years. They fled China after Lady Emily’s husband was murdered and lived in India before returning to London. Now they have moved to the country expecting to live quietly. Only a few days into settling in Lady Emily and Flo go for a walk in the near by woods and stumble upon a death scene. A local young man is hanging from a tree. At first look the police may think this is a tragic suicide until Emily starts to point out the details that show this is really a crime scene.

Lady Emily decides to help the local authorities. Mistress and maid decide to become detectives like Holmes with sidekick Watson. They continue to visit socially while doing questioning. They are invited to attend a local birthday celebration which ends up with trouble. A man is found dead the morning after the party. Inspector Sunderland is addressing the death while the party hostess pulls Lady Emily aside and asks for her help. Knowing that Lady Emily and Flo are doing amateur sleuthing the hostess asks if they can investigate a special jewel that has gone missing.

Lady Emily and Flo are busy if not quiet. They have a lovely relationship that is unusual for the aristocracy in 1908. There is a little mystery to their history which adds to the intrigue of the story. Flo is skilled in martial arts so she is confident she can protect them for the most part. Both Lady Emily and Flo are quick to discern crime clues and are adept at subtly questioning witnesses. Although the initial reaction with the Inspector is hesitant, he soon recognizes their helpful input and they develop a nice friendship. The country setting presents an opportunity to portray village life.

I enjoyed the combination of historical setting, unusual character friendships and busy mystery. The tongue in cheek relationship between mistress and maid/companion adds nice humor. I would pick up more titles in the series when I am looking for a nice historical mystery. I recommend this to readers who enjoy historical, cozy mystery.

Audio Notes: Elizabeth Knowelden does a lovely job with the narration. She provides distinct voices for the characters and captures the unique British humor. The narration enhanced my enjoyment in this story.

Source: July 2017 Audible Sale $4.95. This qualifies for 2019TBR and 2019Audiobook goals.

Audible Book Review: Mirror Gate, The Harbinger Series, Book 2 by Jeff Wheeler

I enjoyed the second in this series... good things for one character; not so good for another.
Mirror Gate
The Harbinger Series, Book 2
By: Jeff Wheeler
Narrated by: Kate Rudd

Series: The Harbinger Series, Book 2
Length: 10 hrs and 25 mins
Unabridged Audiobook
Release date: 08-28-18
Language: English
Publisher: Brilliance Audio
Genre: Fantasy, Gaslamp Fantasy
My Rating: 4.25 of 5.0 Overall; Story 4.25; Narration 4.25.

Publisher's Summary
Wall Street Journal bestselling author Jeff Wheeler continues his wondrous Harbinger series in which two young women unite as two worlds approach the brink of war…
Though relations between Princess Seraphin Fitzempress and her father have been strained, Sera’s royal position has remained unchallenged. Filled with self-doubt, she struggles to grasp the Mysteries - her greatest trial yet.
An education in the enigmatic magic is a necessary one, should Sera plan to rise in her station and invoke her powers during war. But the emperor’s death now leaves both Sera and her ambitious father eligible for the throne - a contest the prince regent intends to win. Even if it means an alliance with a rival empire.
Sera’s hope lies in Cettie, a waif raised in the world below, whose life has intertwined with Sera’s in the most unexpected ways. The Mysteries come easily to Cettie, and her studies have begun to yield new insight into her growing powers. But those same powers put Cettie in the path of those who would destroy her.
Now as the threat of war ignites and an insidious sickness spreads throughout the kingdom, Sera and Cettie will need to gather their courage and fight for each other’s lives…and for the future of their endangered world.
©2018 Jeff Wheeler (P)2018 Brilliance Publishing, Inc., all rights reserved

Review:
Sera, the Princess, and Cettie, the orphan from the lower world, continue their close friendship. They are nearing the conclusion of their studies of the Mysteries at Muirwood Abby, the most prominent institute in the empire. Cettie has been a strong student helping Sera who has continued to struggle.
Just as the final testing is approaching word comes that the Emperor, Sera’s grandfather, has died. Sera and her corrupt father, who questions her paternity, are the two choses to serve as the new ruler by the privy council. Many know that the prince regent has ruthlessly pursued his ambitions for power and is unlikely to seek any help for the people below their level. Sera is known for her kind heart and her best friend is from the Fells. But she is only 16 and inexperienced in the machinations of court.

Sera is pulled away from school to attend the funeral and meet with the privy council. One of the foreign houses is looking to make a marriage alliance. Sera has a chance to meet the young man but she is set on being the new ruler of her people rather than becoming a bride. Sera has a wise, scheming counselor, but she sometimes fights against his advice. Events tumble around Sera but she has no idea of the betrayals that surround her and she is unable to prevent war when the accusations and threats escalate.

Meanwhile, Cettie comes under attack at the Abbey. Although some think that Sera was the original target it quickly becomes clear that it is Cettie the kidnappers are after. The head of the Abbey, who has been a friend and mentor to Cettie, is seriously injured during the first kidnapping attempt. In order to escape the enemy and pass the final test of the Mysteries, Cettie must face her worst nightmares – the ghosts from her past.

Jeff Wheeler has created an absorbing world of mystery and magic. There are moments of joy and more of bitter fear and sadness. I found the lives and unrequited loves of teenaged girls a little difficult to muddle through although the situations and emotions are realistic enough. The story moves at a good pace, introducing some new and interesting characters, especially those who come along side to help Cettie. I expect to continue the series later in the year. I recommend this to those who like an engaging fantasy.

Audio Notes: Kate Rudd does a wonderful job with the narration. She captures the immaturity of the girls, as well as the emotions. The narration enhanced my enjoyment of the story.

Source: 1/3/19 Free with Kindle Unlimited. This qualifies for 2019Audiobook goal.

#NetGalley and Audible Book Review: Nightstalkers, An Area 51 Novel, by Bob Mayer

This is just the sort of monster/alien hunting action I enjoy for a quick read.

Nightstalkers
An Area 51 Novel
By: Bob Mayer
Narrated by: Eric G. Dove

Series: Area 51, Area 51: The Nightstalkers, Book 1
Length: 7 hrs and 27 mins
Unabridged Audiobook
Release date: 12-11-12
Language: English
Publisher: Brilliance Audio
Genre: Action & Adventure, Fantasy, Sci Fi
My Rating: 4.0of 5.0 Overall; Story 4.0; Narration 4.0.

Publisher's Summary
Staff Sergeant Winthrop Carter only enlisted in the army for the steady pay. When he cheated on the Special Forces’ final exam, he never expected his actions would get him drafted into the Nightstalkers - an elite team with a mysterious mission and even more mysterious leader.
For decades, Rifts have been opening and unleashing bloodthirsty alien life forms into our reality. The Nightstalkers’ goal is to shut down these breaches and stop the beings that emerge from rampaging out of control.
While still integrating with his unusual teammates - including a sociopath, a Black Ops washout, and a contemporary MacGyver - Carter gets his first taste of interdimensional action when a Rift opens inside a gated community. With half a dozen deadly invaders threatening the residents, the Nightstalkers must hunt down and eliminate the aliens before they break through containment and wreak havoc on an unsuspecting world.
©2012 Robert Mayer (P)2012 Brilliance Audio, Inc.

Review:
The Nightstalkers are a special, elite team, with a mysterious leader and a mysterious mission. They draw from the best of the army and special forces, seeking those who are willing to commit to a team that puts their lives on the line every assignment. The Nightstalker team has to contain and sometimes annihilate supernatural enemies, creatures that most people don’t know exist. They do their best to minimize collateral damage but are prepared to us excessive force if needed.

The team opens with an action-packed mission to close a dimensional rift and in the process one team member gets pinned with cactus spines causing him to question why he is doing this work. When that injured member walks away, Staff Sergeant Winthrop Carter, is asked to fill the opening on the team.

The team is led by “Moms” and under the direction of a mysterious woman who speaks with a Russian Accent. She has rarely been seen in person as she usually meets with the team in holographic form. The team consists of members who have unusual skills that work together: sharpshooting, troubleshooting, tech expertise, bomb specialist and communications.

Carter is just getting used to the strange team members when they are called out to a wealthy country club subdivision to eliminate the alien “fireflies” which inhabit inanimate objects. The team is setting up ‘undercover’ in one of the elite houses, but a smart, sassy teen from the house across the street is watching every move. “Scout” shows up at the door and offers her services since she knows the neighborhood and clearly the team needs some guidance to fit in.

While they are hunting the creatures to eliminate, they are also concerned about an important artifact that has gone missing and could be misused in the wrong hands. It is soon clear that someone who knows their protocols has brought an attack against the team.

Neither the characters, nor the plot are deeply developed but they are sufficiently set out to make it fun. I totally enjoyed the action and the quirky characters. Scout makes a fun addition. I liked the 1970’s references – they worked for me. I recommend this as an easy read for readers who like monster hunting, military sci fi.

Audio Notes: Eric G. Dove does a nice job with the narration. He distinguishes the character voices, male and female. His voice fits the quick action. The narration added to my enjoyment of the story.

Source: NetGalley 2013 originally and Kindle Unlimited and Whisper Sync pick up 5/4/19. This qualifies for 2019TBR, 2019 NetGalley and 2019Audiobook reading goals.

Audible Book Review: Hello Love by Karen McQuestion

This is a nice, sweet story with a sweet dog.
Hello Love
By: Karen McQuestion
Narrated by: Dan John Miller

Length: 7 hrs and 22 mins
Unabridged Audiobook
Release date: 09-16-14
Language: English
Publisher: Brilliance Audio
Genre: Sweet Romance
My Rating: 4.0 of 5.0 Overall; 3.75 Story; 4.25 Narration.

Publisher's Summary
From the bestselling author of The Long Way Home comes a charming novel about loss and the faith that restores broken lives.
A year after the death of his wife, Christine, Dan is barely holding on. But one thing gets him through the long, lonely nights and that is his cherished dog, Anni. When she is stolen from his front yard, Dan and his daughter, Lindsay, are devastated. Meanwhile in another part of town, Andrea Keller is recovering from the heartbreak of a messy divorce. After she rescues a defenseless dog from an abusive tenant, her life changes in ways she never could have anticipated.
Dan and Andrea cross paths again and again, only to keep missing each other and the opportunity of a lifetime. As Anni works to find her way home, can she bring together these two lost souls desperately in need of a second chance at happiness?
©2014 Karen McQuestion (P)2014 Brilliance Audio, all rights reserved.

Review:
Dan lost his wife a year earlier and, as many grieving spouses do, he buried himself in work. His wife’s beloved dog, Anni, has helped give strength to Dan and their teenaged daughter, Lindsay. Lindsay is devastated when Anni is stolen at the end of their road by young men who appear to be drinking. Dan tries to find the dog and Lindsay begins to be obsessed with finding Anni, especially as she dreams her mother is giving her clues and encouragement.

Andrea is trying to regain her footing after her husband left her for a ‘sexier’ woman. Andrea works at a real estate management company and gets a call from a tenant that another tenant in the building has a dog which is illegal. Andrea goes to give notice to the violating tenants and impulsively decides to rescue Anni who is chained out in the cold snow. Andrea quickly grows to love Anni.

Surprisingly Dan and Andrea cross paths, first exchanging names and another time sharing coffee. One night Andrea even sees Dan across the room with none other than the blonde who moved in with her ex. Apparently the new relationship between Andrea’s ex, Marco, and the blonde has failed. Marco soon shows up trying to win Andrea back.

Andrea takes Anni with her to visit her grandmother in a nursing home. She just misses being seen by Dan and Lindsay who decided to visit a family friend at the urging of Lindsay’s dreams.
The writing is on the wall – eventually Andrea and Dan have to meet and discover that they both love Anni. How will Lindsay respond and who will get to keep the dog?

Dan and Andrea are fairly well developed characters, but Anni could steal the show at least with the extent that she inspires love. The story weaves back and forth between Dan’s life and Andrea’s. There was more life activity than excitement, resulting in pacing that seemed subdued and on the edge of slow. Although this had some very lovely, sweet moments, the story is a little light, a little fluff and just a little longer than necessary. I would recommend this to readers who enjoy a light, sweet romance.

Audio Notes: Dan John Miller doe a nice job with the narration. He manages both male and female voices and provides appropriate emotional input. The audio enhanced the story for me.

Source: November 2018 Audible Sale $4.95. This qualifies for 2019TBR, 2019Audiobook and 2019Alphabet Goals.