Audio Book Review: Cyclone, Linear Tactical Series, by Janie Crouch

I enjoyed this second chance romance with its conflicts and suspense.

Cyclone
Linear Tactical Series
By: Janie Crouch
Narrated by: Tom Campbell

Release Date: December 3, 2018
Publisher: Calamity Jane Publishing
Run time: 6 hours and 51 minutes
Unabridged Audiobook
Genre: Military, Romance, Suspense
My Rating: 4.25 of 5.0 Overall; Story 4.25; Narration 4.25.

PUBLISHER DESCRIPTION
He’d protect her from any threat… But what if the biggest threat is him?
Doctor Anne Nichols is back in Oak Creek, Wyoming, only because she has no other options. Here, she was always the shy, stuttering girl, invisible to everyone.
Except Zac Mackay. The very reason she left in the first place.
Zac’s years in Special Forces taught him survival skills, and he’s created a company—Linear Tactical—to teach those skills to others, so they never have to live in fear.
Then why is Annie, the last person he’d ever want to hurt, afraid of him?
Zac’s determined to wipe the fear from the eyes of the woman who has never been far from his mind. And fix the mistakes—his mistakes—that put that look there in the first place.
But a predator has set his sights on Annie. And now survival skills will become much more than lessons…

Review:
Anne is a talented and confident doctor, but her confidence fails in social relationships. She was teased in school because of a stuttering problem. Anne’s only true friend, Becky, married high school crush, Zac. When Becky and their young child died in an accident, Zac and Anne had a consoling encounter that was a dream and a nightmare for Anne. For Zac it is a blacked-out night of drunkenness.

Anne left town after the incident and has only returned after abandonment and divorce by her faithless husband. Anne managed to stay ‘invisible’ to the locals until Zac and his friends show up in the hospital and recognize her. Zac’s initial reaction adds to his prior rejection of Anne. When he begins to realize that he did something horribly wrong Zac sets out to find the truth and heal the relationship.

While Anne and Zac are trying to decide to avoid or embrace each other, they become involved in investigating a serial rapist. Anne is on scene to help victims and Zac and his friends are on scene to seek forensic evidence. As they review several crime scenes, Anne comes under the eye of the villain. Zac is quick to step up to provide protection.

Anne is not a typical beautiful, brilliant, and confident heroine. She is shy and flawed in spite of her intelligence and attractiveness. Zac is a former special forces hero with keen skills and a caring heart. Their relationship is complex and past misunderstandings have to be overcome. The sexual scenes are on the sexy side but not over powering.

I was drawn into the story quickly and the well-balanced blend of romance and mystery kept me interested until the end. I also liked the Linear Tactical team whom, I suspect, will star in their own books as the series continues. I would be willing to read more in the series which I recommend to readers who enjoy stories with romantic conflict and strong action.

Audio Notes: Tom Campbell does a very nice job narrating. He gives voices to the characters that worked and he presented the story with solid pacing and emotion. This is the first book I listened to from Chirp and the quality of the audio production is good. Apparently Chirp is a distribution venue of regular audiobooks so it is a chance to listen to some good books for a discounted price – win -win.

Source: July Chirp Purchase $1.99. This qualifies for 2019Audiobook goal.

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: The Girl Who Was Supposed to Die by April Henry

This mystery has great suspense and tension.
The Girl Who Was Supposed to Die
By: April Henry
Narrated by: Cristina Panfilio

Length: 5 hrs and 24 mins
Unabridged Audiobook
Release date: 06-11-13
Language: English
Publisher: Brilliance Audio
Genre: Mystery, Suspense, Thriller
My Rating: 4.25 of 5.0 Overall, Story and Audio.

Publisher's Summary
"Take her out back and finish her off."
She doesn’t know who she is. She doesn’t know where she is, or why. All she knows when she comes to in a ransacked cabin is that there are two men arguing over whether or not to kill her.
And that she must run.
In her riveting style, April Henry crafts a nail-biting thriller involving murder, identity theft, and biological warfare. Follow Cady and Ty (her accidental savior turned companion), as they race against the clock to stay alive.
©2013 April Henry (P)2013 Brilliance Audio, Inc.

Review:
Cady was kidnapped and tortured for information. When the kidnappers were done with her she was supposed to be killed. Instead she struggled and surprisingly escaped. She is on the run knowing that she is being hunted. She manages to get a young man to help her, pulling Ty into her run from death. They don’t know who to trust or where to hide since the evil men always seem one step behind them and have framed her for a crime in order to pull her in.

The author does a clear presentation in first person with good confusion, mystery and tension expressed through the fear of the character. The story is full of twists, turns and great tension. Although the characters are young and don't always think things through, I was pulled into the story from the beginning and it moved quickly with the suspense. I am glad I picked this up as a daily deal. I will look for more by Ms. Henry. This is suitable for young people as well as adults.

Audio Notes: Cristina Panfilio did a good job with the narration. She portrayed the young voices and gave the characters energy. The narration enhanced my enjoyment of the story.

Source: Audible March, 2017 Daily Deal $1.95. This qualifies for Audiobook Challenge and 2018TBR.

Book Review: Hearts Under Fire by Antonio Scotto di Carlo

This mystery and romance had some good twists.
Hearts Under Fire
by Antonio Scotto di Carlo

File Size: 1232 KB
Print Length: 235 pages
Page Numbers Source ISBN: 1976742951
Publication Date: March 3, 2015
ASIN: B00U88RP52
Genre: Mystery, Romance, Suspense
My Rating: 4.25 of 5.0

Jenny is a beautiful young businesswoman. She lives in an Italian tourist town where she owns a shop. Her need for independence is her strength, but her innate distrust sometimes creates problems with others.
One day she encounters love. More than an encounter, it’s a collision, a head-on collision. Her heart isn’t Eros’s only target, and everything changes …
Police begin investigating suspicious events around her, slowing down the construction of a new great hotel in town and rocking her life even more.

Review:
Jenny is a young woman making a success of her sales shop in an Italian tourist town. She has been betrayed in the past, so she guards her independence fiercely to the point of spoiling her personal relationships. She is trying to find a way to rent the space above her shop so she can store her inventory on site. She meets with her landlord who flirts with her but she thinks she can convince him to give her a discounted rental rate with the goal of buying it.

Her normally proper boyfriend, a successful architect, unexpectedly invites her to go out of town for a resort weekend. He is a good man but is pressuring her a bit to get married. At the end of the weekend he convinces her to accept her proposal. Shortly after they have returned home the police show up at her door to announce that he has been murdered. Because a similar murder occurred a few months before the police are not sure whether this is a random murder or something related to his work.

The strange coincidence is that one of the detectives, Chris, is a man who Jenny recently exchanged heated glances with in the market. Chris is enchanted with Jenny even though he should have nothing to do with her because of the investigation.

Chris and Jenny soon fall in love with intense chemistry but intense conflict too. Chris has his own past demons that create warnings and obstacles which run up against Jenny’s obsession with independence. His reactions begin to create a growing negative suspicion in Jenny that causes a traumatic twist in their relationship.

I enjoyed the warm, descriptive writing style very much. I was surprised that this was written in Italian and translated into English as it flowed quite well. The sexual encounters were a bit cliched but not grossly graphic. I really liked the twists and turns which culminate in a final twist in the last chapter. There is a fun (and strange) rap song included. It was an engaging romance/mystery mix that I recommend to readers who enjoy those genres.

Source: 2017 Author through Goodreads. This qualifies for 2018TBR and Alphabet Challenges.

#NetGalley Book Review: The Edge of Memory by Maura Beth Brennan

This is an interesting profile with bit of mystery.

The Edge of Memory
by Maura Beth Brennan

File Size: 716 KB
Print Length: 230 pages
Publisher: First Edition Design Publishing (December 12, 2017)
ASIN: B0788828JG
Genre: Drama, Psychological Thriller, Suspense
My Rating: 4.0 of 5.0

When your childhood is cut short by murder and treachery, it's not easy to live a normal life. At the tender age of nine, Harriet witnessed her father beat her mother to death, and she holds herself partially responsible. Still haunted by half-memories, guilt, and disturbing dreams, she has constructed a solitary and joyless existence, with little room for men or romance. Facing her thirtieth birthday, she knows she must do something to change her life. Like an omen, she meets Agnes, a rich elderly widow looking for a companion at her summer home in Maine, and the two forge a business deal. Thinking this will be like a vacation and a time to plan a better future, Harriet is shocked to discover challenges and obstacles she hadn't anticipated. Agnes' nephew and sole heir resents Harriet and wants her gone. And then there's Eli, the local artisan who makes her reconsider her decision to avoid men. Can he possibly return her feelings? Soon, the nephew's schemes, along with a heartbreaking betrayal, culminate in an event that changes her life forever. Will she fail Agnes as she failed her own mother years ago? Will she lose the man she loves? Or will she find her own strength and realize happiness at last?

Review:
Harriet was only nine when her father beat her mother to death. Harriet has blocked the memories but still has always felt responsible and unworthy to be happy. As her thirtieth birthday nears, she decides that she must change her life. Fate steps in when she meets a rich elderly widow, Agnes, who hires her as a companion. Agnes asks Harriet to accompany her to her summer home in Maine. Bit by bit Agnes gets Harriet to step out of her comfort zone and begin to truly transform herself.

Harriet meets Eli, an artist in town, who takes an interest in her, but they have misunderstandings to work through. Meanwhile Agnes’ nephew and heir visits on the weekends. He is arrogant and rude. Feeling threatened by the growing friendship between Agnes and Harriet, he accuses Harriet of not taking good care of Agnes as she seems to be having stomach illness. He blames Harriet for other accidents and missing items around the house too.

Intensity increases with Agnes' life threatened and Harriet's relationship with Eli challenged. Will her newly found confidence allow her to face the dangers to life and heart? 

Although I had a lot of trouble relating to Harriet’s insecure character, the author makes a clear portrayal of a young girl who was the victim of abuse as a child and never received counseling to help resolve her feelings of shame, guilt and inferiority. I had to keep this in mind throughout the story. I thought some of the mystery was pretty obvious, but I still liked how it played out. There was one sexual scene that seemed a bit cliched. It was more detailed than I like but not totally graphic.

The writing has some light descriptive prose and is an easy read. I would recommend this to readers who like family drama, women’s growth, a little suspense and a touch of romance.

Source: NetGalley 2017. This qualified for 2018TBR, March Take Control, NetGalley and Alphabet Challenges.

Audible Book Review: If I'm Found by Terri Blackstock

This middle book continues the tension in this engaging series.

If I'm Found
By: Terri Blackstock
Narrated by: Kate Rudd

Series: If I Run, Book 2
Length: 7 hrs and 45 mins
Unabridged
Release date: 03-21-17
Language: English
Publisher: Zondervan
Genre: Christian, Mystery, Suspense
My Rating: 4.25 of 5.0

Publisher's Summary
Is Dylan hunting Casey to prosecute her or protect her?
Casey Cox is still on the run, fleeing prosecution for a murder she didn't commit. Dylan Roberts - her most relentless pursuer - is still on her trail, but his secret emails insist that he knows the truth and wants to help her. He's let her escape before when he had her in his grasp, but trust doesn't come easily.
As Casey works to collect evidence about the real murderers, she stumbles on another unbearable injustice: an abused child and a suicidal man who's also been falsely accused. Casey risks her own safety to right this wrong and protect the little girl from her tormenters. But doing so is risky and just may result in her capture - and if she's captured, she has no doubt she'll be murdered before she ever steps foot in a jail.
In this riveting sequel to the USA Today best seller If I Run, evil lurks, drawing Casey out of the shadows...but there is light shining in the darkness. Is Dylan a provision from the God who loves her or another heartache yet to happen?
©2017 Terri Blackstock (P)2017 Zondervan

Review:
Casey risked herself in her first undercover city by insisting that a missing girl is being held in a basement around the corner. She has to escape and find another location. There she finds work but again becomes involved in a local problem even though it risks her cover.

Other witnesses interviewed by Casey’s murdered friend Brent are turning up dead. Dylan is becoming more convinced that Casey has been framed and he is desperate to reach her before Detective Keegan. Keegan is intent on capturing Casey but Dylan is concerned that the police officer won't return her safely.

This book continues the suspense in the plot. There was a little more development for Casey and Dylan, as well as the villain Keegan who even had a couple of chapters from his view. There is some repetition and some filler that might have been eliminated but then it might impact the trilogy. My hubby and I enjoyed listening to this second book and were excited to read book three.

Audio Notes: Kate Rudd’s narration is an improvement over the narration in the first book. Ms Rudd provides some distinct voices and good pacing. The narration helped me to enjoy this second book.

Source: 2018 Audible Credit Purchase. This qualifies for 2018TBR, Take Control and Audiobook Challenges.

Book 1: Audio Book Review: If I Run by Terri Blackstock, 4.25

Audio Book Review: If I Run by Terri Blackstock

This is an engaging suspense; strong beginning to the series.
If I Run
by Terri Blackstock
Narrator: Nan Gurley

Series If I Run Series
Runtime: 6.7 Hrs. - Unabridged
Publisher: Zondervan
Release Date: February 16, 2016
Genre: Christian, Mystery, Suspense
My Rating: 4.25 of 5.0

Casey knows the truth.
But it won’t set her free.
Casey Cox’s DNA is all over the crime scene. There’s no use talking to police; they have failed her abysmally before. She has to flee before she’s arrested . . . or worse. The truth doesn’t matter anymore.
But what is the truth? That’s the question haunting Dylan Roberts, the war-weary veteran hired to find Casey. PTSD has marked him damaged goods, but bringing Casey back can redeem him. Though the crime scene seems to tell the whole story, details of the murder aren’t adding up. Casey Cox doesn’t fit the profile of a killer. But are Dylan’s skewed perceptions keeping him from being objective? If she isn’t guilty, why did she run?
Unraveling her past and the evidence that condemns her will take more time than he has, but as Dylan’s damaged soul intersects with hers, he is faced with two choices. The girl who occupies his every thought is a psychopathic killer . . . or a selfless hero. And the truth could be the most deadly weapon yet.

Review:
Casey Cox found her officer father dead when she was 12 years old. The police ruled it a suicide, but Casey knew the evidence supported murder. Someone was covering up the facts.

Thirteen years later Casey’s good friend, Brent, a journalist, was digging into her father’s death. He called her to say he had news, When Casey arrives at his apartment she walks in to find his bloody body. Casey stumbles in the blood and leaves her footprints and handprints at the scene. She knows she will be the number one suspect, so she goes on the run.

Dylan Roberts, Brent’s childhood friend, is a stressed veteran suffering from PTSD. He was an investigator in the service and is hired by Brent’s parents to hunt down the murderer and bring her back. As Dylan views the crime scene he quickly sees evidence that indicates that Casey may not be the murderer. He heads out to follow the clues of Casey’s flight run.

Casey is good at disguising herself and staying off the grid. Still she leaves a few clues. Casey has a caring heart and can’t stop herself from becoming involved in the sorrows of others. She chooses to investigate the kidnapping of a missing teen even though it puts her undercover situation at risk.

I enjoyed the suspense and Casey’s cleverness in staying hidden. Both Casey and Dylan are flawed and well-developed characters. The story has steady pacing with strong details and interesting plot lines. I liked how the chapters cover different events alternating between Casey and Dylan. Although there is no real romance in this first book, you can see the anticipated direction. This is a series and the reader should expect to get books two and three.

I have read Ms. Blackstock before and appreciate her writing style. I recommend this to readers who enjoy clean suspense. Even my husband, who is not much of a book reader enjoyed the story though and was ready for book two as we finished book one.

Audio Notes: The narration by Nan Gurley is disappointing. There is no effort to distinguish the female and male voices which sometimes caused confusion, especially for my husband who doesn’t have the same practice at following along as I do. The narration did help me share this with my husband as we listened together. Listen to the sample to decide if you want to listen or read this one.

Source: ChristianAudio Sale 2017. This qualifies for my 2018TBR, Take Control TBR and Audio and Alphabet Challenges.

Book Review: ReWired by S. R. Johannes

This is an engaging YA suspense focused on computer addiction/hackers.

ReWired
by S.R. Johannes

File Size: 382 KB
Print Length: 316 pages
Simultaneous Device Usage: Unlimited
Publisher: Coleman & Stott (August 27, 2017)
ASIN: B0752Z6V3W
Genre: Teens, Suspense, YA
My Rating: 4.0 of 5.0

16-year-old Ada Lovelace is never more alive and sure of herself than when she’s hacking into a “secure” network as her alter ego, the Dark Angel. In the real world, Ada is broken, reeling from her best friend Simone’s recent suicide. But online, the reclusive daughter of Senator Lovelace (champion of the new Technology Privacy Bill) is a daring white hat hacker and the only female member of the Orwellians, an elite group responsible for a string of high-profile hacks against major corporations, with a mission to protect the little guy.
Ada is swiftly proving she’s a force to be reckoned with, when a fellow Orwellian betrays her to the FBI. To protect her father’s career, Ada is sent to ReBoot, a technology rehab facility for teens…the same rehab Simone attended right before killing herself.
It’s bad enough that the ReBoot facility is creepy in an Overlook-Hotel-meets-Winchester-Mansion way, but when Ada realizes Simone’s suicide is just one in an increasingly suspicious string of “accidental” deaths and “suicides” occurring just after kids leave ReBoot, Ada knows she can’t leave without figuring out what really happened to her best friend. The massive cyber conspiracy she uncovers will threaten everything she cares about–her dad’s career, her new relationship with a wry, handsome, reformed hacker, Fisher, who gets under her skin, and most of all–the Dark Angel.
With a deliciously twisty plot, the topical bite of Cory Doctorow's LITTLE BROTHER, ReWIRED delves into technology addiction, internet privacy, and corporate/government collection of data.
ReWIRED is about the daily choices we all make about who we want to be, how much of ourselves we choose to share with others, and the terrifying risks and exhilarating rewards of being ourselves, online and off.

Review:
Ada Lovelace is the daughter of a busy senator father and society busy mother who tend to be preoccupied with their own lives and affairs. Ada is immersed in the worlds of computer gaming and online community with few friends in real life. Ada is still trying to recover from the apparent suicide of her best friend, Simone who was caught hacking and sent to ReBoot, a rehab facility for hacker teens. Shortly after being released, and without sharing with Ada, Simone was found dead.

Ada, known online as the Dark Angel, is involved with a secret group that challenges its members to hack important systems. Ada is one of the best in the competitions and sometimes tries to protect the victims of the hacks from the others whose goals might be more malicious. The group is betrayed and Ada ends up being forced into rehab at the ReBoot facility.

The place is beyond creepy, not to mention it is off the electronic grid. All of the kids have different ‘antisocial’ tendencies and histories of computer addiction. Ada isn’t sure if she wants to become friends with any of them as she resigns herself to her thirty (30) days of imprisonment. As Ada begins to make contact with the others, she learns that too many former attendees have died shortly after being released from the facility. Now Ada is intent on discovering what Simone did while she was at ReBoot that might have led to her death. Ada finds secret rooms in the old building and knows that she is on to some strange behavior especially after repeated near death accidents during the academy ‘games’. Can Ada uncover a dark plot before she becomes a victim too?

I enjoyed the different characters that the author created to share this story, even referring to them as “The Breakfast Club of the Cybersphere”. Some are darker and more insular while others are more like regular kids who have gotten sucked into the world of technology. There are several twists that made the story interesting and helped me skim over the teen angsty elements (that were appropriate to the characters but not my thing). The pacing and suspense is good so that the story moved along well. There is a touch of romance too that develops through conflict and is handled nicely. I do hope the version I read was an ARC version as it was absolutely full of grammar and typo errors.

I appreciated the message this story may have especially for young people (and their parents) as the teens become more involved with and reliant upon cell phones and computer life. I know myself how easy it is to lose hours of time while visiting social media or playing online games. The author provides a message that it is important to stay in live contact with family and friends. I recommend this to readers who enjoy YA issues in a story that includes technology and suspense elements.

I was invited to read this by the author who provided an ebook copy. My review is based solely on my own opinion.

Book Review: Hunt the Dawn by Abbie Roads

This is 'gritty' but wonderfully suspenseful and romantic.
Hunt the Dawn (Fatal Dreams Book 2)
by Abbie Roads

File Size: 1643 KB
Print Length: 352 pages
Publisher: Sourcebooks Casablanca (December 6, 2016)
ASIN: B01JASIXSI
Genre: Suspense, Supernatural
My Rating: 4.75 of 5.0

"Dark and delicious."—Kerrelyn Sparks, New York Times bestselling author on Race the Darkness
Out of darkness and danger
You can't hide your secrets from Lathan Montgomery-he can read your darkest memories. And while his special abilities are invaluable in the FBI's hunt for a serial killer, he has no way to avoid the pain that brings him. Until he is drawn to courageous, down-on-her-luck Evanee Brown and finds himself able to offer her something he's never offered another human being: himself.
Dawns a unique and powerful love
Nightmares are nothing new to Evanee Brown. But once she meets Lathan, they plummet into the realm of the macabre. Murder victims are reaching from beyond the grave to give Evanee evidence that could help Lathan bring a terrifying killer to justice. Together, they could forge an indomitable partnership to thwart violence, abuse, and death-if they survive the forces that seek to tear them apart.

Review:
Lathan is a man who has always been sensitive to others – more than he wants. His olfactory glands are stronger than normal and he can smell the emotional memories of those around him. In a crowd that can be overwhelming and it creates difficulties on individual interactions too. Although his ‘gift’ is frowned on by many, and even makes his parents uncomfortable, the skill has come in handy as he consults with the FBI.

One night as Lathan is riding his motorcycle home he comes upon a car and truck by the side of the road. He smells the fear and anguish of the young woman trying to escape an attacker and steps in to face off with the attacker.

Evanee is trying to make enough money to get out of town and away from her abusive stepbrother, Junior. She shouldn’t go off with a stranger but she must get away from Junior. Evanee is accustomed to having nightmares but having ones that put her in touch with murder victims is new – and frightening. During each nightmare episode, the victim reaches out to her and a dark presence makes her take a token.

Lathan calls in the FBI and they begin to tie together the clues and the bodies to a serial killer known as the Strategist. Lathan has never had a woman focus on his eyes instead of the tattoo on his face. He is awed to have a woman respond to him as honestly as Evanee does. He can’t stop her nightmares but he is determined to keep Evanee safe from her Junior and the Strategist. And both come after her.

I liked the strength of Lathan and Evanee from the very beginning of the story. They both had harsh childhoods and, even as survivors, they are emotionally vulnerable. The author created a relationship with depth and steamy chemistry. There is language and graphic brutality which is why I say this is “gritty”. But Ms. Roads creates wonderfully believable characters and a finely crafted plot, with twists, that carry the story beyond any “grittiness” for me. I may well go back and pick up book 1. I highly recommend this to readers who enjoy strong romantic suspense with a supernatural twist.

I received this from the publisher through NetGalley. It qualifies for my 2017 NetGalley Challenge, Mount TBR and “H” in Alphabet Soup Challenge.

Audio Book Review: Goliath by Steve Alten

This is an intense military action thriller that makes you think about military might and social – human --issues. (ABJ)
Goliath
By: Steve Alten
Read by: Christopher Kipiniak

Runtime: 14.8 Hours
Release date: 11.15.2016
Publisher: Blackstone Audio
ISBN-13: 978-1-5047-8531-0
Genre: Fiction/Thrillers/Suspense
My Rating: 4.25 of 5.0

Terrorism. Acts of oppression. The threat of nuclear war. What if one madman aboard a vessel could end these fears forever?
Commander Rochelle “Rocky” Jackson is aboard the aircraft carrier USS Ronald Reagan when the “unsinkable” naval vessel and its entire fleet are attacked from the depths and sunk. As Rocky struggles to stay alive, a monstrous mechanical steel stingray surfaces, plowing through the seas it now commands.
The US Navy–designed Goliath is a futuristic nuclear stealth submarine in the shape of a stingray. Simon Covah, a brilliant scientist whose entire family were the victims of terrorism, has hijacked the sub. Believing violence is a disease, Covah aims to use the Goliath and its cache of nuclear weapons to dictate policy to the world regarding the removal of oppressive regimes and nuclear weapons.
Could the threat of violence forge a lasting peace?
But there is another player in this life-and-death chess match: unbeknownst to Covah and the Goliath crew, the Goliath’s biochemical computer brain has become self-aware—and it’s developing its own agenda.
© 2002 by Steve Alten

Review:
“Rocky” Jackson followed the footsteps of her naval officer dad by preparing for naval service. She always ranked well in grades and testing, having to push herself a bit to prove her capabilities in a man’s career. Rocky and her fiancé, Gunner, a special forces ‘hero’, worked with other specialists on a secret government project -- a huge stealth submarine known as the Goliath. The project was cancelled when Gunner destroyed the schematics on the eve of their wedding. Gunner knows he was betrayed and set up by a close friend but he refuses to reveal the truth even when convicted of treason. Rocky was devastated and wouldn’t speak to Gunner even when encouraged by her father who was once Gunner’s commanding officer.

Ten years later, the United States officials discover that the Goliath has been built in secret by the Chinese and is now in the hands of Simon Covah. Covah was one of the original scientists working on Goliath and he has inserted Sorceress, a learning biochemical computer brain, into the sub’s control matrix. Covah is set on a catastrophic plan to stop humans from more maiming wars, like the one that maimed him and took his family. Covah has programmed Sorceress with his master plan to target the worst of the world's known terrorists. But Covah hasn’t factored in the learning curve and control of Sorceress. Covah faces his own betrayals, once again proving that the best laid plans can run amok.

Rocky and Gunner are pulled in by defense specialists to stop Covah and Goliath from setting off nuclear bombs in specially targeted cities. Rocky and Gunner don’t trust each other but are forced to find a way to work together if they want to survive Covah’s sub team and Goliath’s ‘evolving’ personality.

I enjoyed the character development with hurts, scars and sometimes delirium. I also enjoyed the danger, the fast-paced action and the intense suspense. Mr. Alten blends genius with a fine line of mania that can even taint a human trained AI. The author provides a thought provoking message regarding nuclear weapons. Although interesting, the depth of detail on military weapons, submarines, carriers, specialty planes, and specialty weapons is almost overwhelming. I suspect the details are intended to give the reader a better perspective on the immensity and power of Goliath.

I recommend this to readers who enjoy military thrillers. You can always skim past the equipment details if they seem too much.

Audio Notes: Christopher Kipiniak does a fine job with the voices and accents. The characters are easily distinguishable and the narration provides good pacing, realistic emotion and fitting intensity. The narration increased my enjoyment of the story.

I received this audio book from Blackstone Audio through Audiobook Jukebox. It qualifies for 2017 Audio Challenge.

Book Review: Forbidden by F. Stone

This is a gripping, page turner!

Forbidden
by F. Stone

File Size: 904 KB
Print Length: 385 pages
Publisher: Romance Under Fire (December 12, 2016)
ASIN: B01N2TNTS5
Genre: Suspense, Romance
My Rating: 4.75 of 5.0

Year 2047, City of Samarra, capital of the Republic of Islamic Provinces & Territories
Fifteen American travelers have vanished. Surrendering to Mayor Aamir's demands, a devout Muslim and police captain becomes the reluctant keeper of his city’s bloody secret – and the witness, Eliza MacKay. Captain Sharif is horrified to discover that if he exposes the cover-up, his family will suffer dire consequences.
The CIA has the lying Sharif in their cross hairs. Sharif’s only hope is to prove his country's government is free of guilt. Secretly, he hunts forensic evidence. Cryptic messages, backstabbing informants, and corruption threaten Sharif’s resolve to see justice served. When he discovers the shocking truth, he and MacKay become the targets of a ruthless killer.
Sharif is tortured by his attraction to the impetuous Eliza MacKay. In spite of her struggle with PTSD, he’s drawn to her vivacious personality. Islam forbids the intimacy he craves. In desperation to save Eliza, Sharif plots an act most forbidden and fatal.

Review:
Eliza, a Canadian paramedic, traveled to the City of Samara to work with an American Habitat team. Eliza struggles with crippling PTSD episodes as she tries to recover from a traumatic loss a few years past. The Habitat convoy is diverted to a police compound where they are massacred. The real police engage the terrorists at the last minute, rescuing a terrified Eliza. Captain Sharif, a devout Muslin, takes Eliza into custody, first to confirm she wasn’t part of the attack and then to keep her safe.

Sharif’s superiors threaten his family if he doesn’t cover-up the killings and silence the sole surviving witness. Sharif struggles to find a way to save Eliza, even acting behind her back. Eliza respects Sharif’s dedication to his faith and to his duties as an officer of the law. She knows that he is trying to protect her but she doesn’t appreciate not being privy to the plans to hide her away.

Sharif is forced to lie to the CIA agent who arrives to find the bodies of the Americans and bring in the killers. Sharif must intensify his efforts to obtain proof of the corruption in his own government as the CIA agent holds him under suspicion.

Sharif and Eliza grow in friendship as they share close spaces and learn of each other’s vulnerabilities. Eliza knows that she does not fit in Sharif’s world and any relationship between them is forbidden. Sharif, who has convinced himself that he is not worthy of love, struggles to maintain his strict code of honor even as he is drawn to the brave, impetuous Eliza. Can they find the strength to acknowledge their love, assuming they can survive the multiplying threats to their freedoms and their very lives?

The plot is wonderfully crafted with well-developed characters, nonstop suspense and a good twist to the ending. The setting and political environment make an effective backdrop and I found the Muslim elements very interesting. Ms. Stone adds to this an improbable but beautiful romance.

The primary characters are real, flawed and courageous. It was natural to root for them to beat the enemy and accept their love for one another. I also liked the secondary characters and would like to read more about all of them. There were some typographical errors but the story is well worth reading. I hope to try more of Ms. Stone’s work very soon. I highly recommend this story to readers who like action packed suspense with romance.

I picked this up in December from a source new to me: Reading Deals. This qualifies for 2017 TBR and “F” in 2017 Alphabet Challenge.

Audio Book Review: Only Ever You by Rebecca Drake

This is a well written, chilling and emotional suspense!

Only Ever You
Written by: Rebecca Drake
Narrated by: Eva Kaminsky

Length: 12 hrs and 28 mins
Unabridged Audiobook
Release Date:03-22-16
Publisher: Recorded Books
Genre: Mystery, Thriller, Suspense
My Rating: 4.5 of 5.0
Audible Link

Description
Three-year-old Sophia Lassiter disappears at the playground only to return after 40 frantic minutes-- but her mother Jill's relief is short lived. Jill is convinced the tiny dots on her daughter's arm are puncture marks. When doctors find no trace of drugs in her system, Jill accepts she won't ever know what happened during her daughter's absence and is simply grateful to have her home safely. Except Sophia isn't safe. Three months later, she disappears again. This time from her bed at home, in the night. Working with the police and the community, Jill and her husband David are desperate to bring their little girl home. They remain hopeful---until information turns up suggesting their daughter was murdered, causing the police to turn their suspicions on the parents. Facing ugly family secrets and heart-rending evidence, Jill is still convinced her daughter is alive. But when the dragnet begins to close around them, Jill realizes the worst: if the police believe she has killed her daughter, that means they aren't out there looking for the real perpetrator. They aren't hunting for Sophie or the person who still has her.

Review:
Jill is a photographer used to taking family photos to commemorate occasions. She also gives her time to take photos of grieving parents as she can share their unique pain of loss. Jill’s husband, David, is an up and coming lawyer working to reach partnership in his firm. They adopted Sophia as a newborn and love her as they would a natural child. Sophia goes missing from a public park but is found at the edge of the woods after a frantic 40-minute search. It seems that Sophia may have chased after a dog but Jill is worried about the pin prick on her arm. The doctors find no evidence of foul play and suggest it might be a bug bite.

Jill becomes even more careful watching her child. One morning she awakens to an unusually quite house and soon discovers that Sophia is not in her bedroom or anywhere in the house. The police begin an investigation and the neighborhood turns out to help in the search. When no kidnapping demand is made and evidence is found that suggest murder the police begin to suspect the parents. Innocent statements expressing normal parental frustrations are turned into negative and ominous threats. Then secrets are disclosed that create further suspicion, even between Jill and David. Jill is still focused on finding Sophia but the police are now focusing on her.

As the tension at home builds, the author weaves in scenes showing the actions of the deranged kidnapper. Slowly a connection is revealed that ties in some unexpected players. The mystery suddenly leaps into a suspenseful evasion from police while racing to save Sophia from threats fueled by betrayal and secrets.

I enjoyed the alternating points of view showing Jill’s emotional upheaval and the kidnapper’s unhinged intent. The reaction and responsive behaviors of arrogant colleagues and friends, as well as strangers, is sadly horrifying. Ms. Drake creates real to life characters that the reader/listener can relate to. The pacing was good and the twists kept me glued. Although I suspected an important element early in the story, the author built in red herrings and twists that kept the suspense increasing until the end. I recommend this to readers who enjoy emotional and chilling suspense.

Audio Notes: Eva Kaminsky does a very good job with the narration. I was impressed how she brings the characters alive. The adept voicing and energy fit the suspense of the story. The narration helped make this a gripping experience.

I received this audio book from the publisher through Audiobook Jukebox. It qualifies for my Audio Challenge and O in Alphabet Challenge.

Book Review: Second Chances - A "Chosen" Short Story by Jeff Altabef and Erynn Altabef

I felt this story raised more questions than it answered.
Second Chances - A "Chosen" Short Story
by Jeff Altabef and Erynn Altabef

File Size: 2734 KB
Print Length: 73 pages
Publisher: Evolved Publishing LLC; 1st edition (September 7, 2015)
ASIN: B0153VNHSM
Genre: Coming of Age, Supernatural
My Rating: 3.5 of 5.0

Precious and rare, second chances must be earned, but has Ayden done enough to win his?
[Short Story, Teen & Young Adult, Mystery and Thriller, Fantasy and Supernatural, American Indian Culture]
One night changes everything.
One chance meeting forces a young man to make a choice.
Will he do what’s right?
Or what’s easy?
Ayden is forced to remember old secrets he’d rather not reveal when his daughter returns home with questions about his shadowy past and dangerous legacy. Will she understand when he tells her about the night mysterious strangers came to his sleepy Arizona town looking for a local medicine man?
As his tale unfolds, Ayden pieces together the mystery that connected a recent murder, the strangers, and the medicine man’s bizarre behavior.
Will he allow old demons to rule him, or will he get a second chance?

Review:
Juliet is a teen who has always wondered about her father. Her mother refused to give any information but she has finally met him and demands that he explain his absence from her life.

Ayden had a rough childhood and ended up as a part of a gang. He had every intention of giving up his past and going straight so he could marry the girl he loved, the daughter of a rich man in town. Ayden hears strangers in town asking about a local medicine man and about his girl’s father. When he races off to warn them he stumbles onto a dark man with evil powers. Unexpected events that no one will believe, especially with his history, put Ayden in jail and out of his daughter's life for many years.

Her father’s tale of events helps Juliet to understand more about herself. Now she has to face a future knowing she has special abilities and enemies to find.

I am not sure if this is a ‘prequel’ or a short story between full books in the series. It is short at 74 pages and barely introduces the primary characters and mysterious legend, supernatural powers and evils that are involved. I felt sorry for Ayden who made some bad choices and got trapped by outside powers. I didn’t care for Juliet’s attitude of rebellion and disobedience. I liked the suspense and Native American mystery elements.

Although this serves as an introduction, I felt it was incomplete on its own. I didn’t feel I understood what was to happen when I finished the short story. I suspect it would make sense once the reader moves on to the first full book in the series but I really was left puzzling whether this had pulled me in enough to want to continue. I might be willing to read the next book if it was offered for review but I can’t say I was engaged enough to want to run out and buy it.

I received this book from the author in exchange for signing up for the newsletter. No review was required although encouraged.

Book Review: The Lame Duck by Bernard Leo Remakus

A lot of this is scary... but very captivating.

The Lame Duck
by Bernard Leo Remakus

File Size: 2113 KB
Print Length: 384 pages
Publisher: 221 East Publishing; First Edition edition (November 7, 2015)
ASIN: B017PXXXEE
Genre: Suspense, Medical
My Rating: 4.5 of 5.0

Some believe Dr. Bob Cassidy is America's worst doctor. The young physician is already defending his third malpractice suit, being investigated by the feds, and about to lose his hospital privileges. Many believe Angela Fratello is America’s top malpractice lawyer. Known as the "Angel of Death" in legal circles, she knows how to win in the courtroom - and win big. When Angela starts experiencing severe foot pain while skiing, she drives to the closest medical facility - the backwoods office of Dr. Bob Cassidy. Angela becomes Cassidy's patient, and their chance meeting sets the stage for the perfect crime - and a love story for the ages.

Review:
Dr. Bob Cassidy is a caring, country doctor. He hasn’t deserved the troubles of malpractice suits brought against him but, in the nature of court proceedings, sometimes the insurance companies settle just to avoid the cost of going to trial.

Dr. Bob didn’t get to complete his residency because he returned home to care for his parents. He was accepted by the local community hospital because his father was one of the founding doctors. Bob has taken over the family practice which is run out of their rustic but impressive home which sits in a beautiful, prime spot in the hills of Pennsylvania, above the local community.

Bob is frustrated by the hospital system he has to work within. The local hospital is controlled by a corrupt and greedy chief doctor and his cronies who care more about their golf games and money than the care of the patients. The greedy managers have brought on board a scary group of inept physicians with a goal of making money rather than helping the sick.

Bob is required to take his turn handling the emergency room and he watches over his own patients when they have to be admitted. But Bob recognizes the uncaring, ineptitude of the other doctors and the outdated and inadequate equipment at the hospital. He wishes he could go elsewhere but he can’t leave home nor find other work without his full residency time.

One evening a beautiful woman appears at Bob’s doors seeking treatment for a painful toe. He encourages her to see a doctor in Scranton, where she lives. She refuses to go to her own town or to the local hospital. She finally tells him why she can’t go there in order to convince him to test her and treat her. Angela is a top malpractice lawyer, known as the "Angel of Death" in legal circles due to her persistent and successful skills winning malpractice cases against doctors and hospitals.

As the daily, painful treatments proceed, Bob and Angela reveal their emotional struggles, pains and dreams while they fall in love. Everything is going well until an incident causes Angela to re-injure her toe. The injury is severe and she is rushed to the hospital where one disaster after another nearly results in her death. Now the queen of malpractice has her eyes set on the hospital and every doctor there, including Bob.

This story is eerie, frustrating, frighteningly and disgustingly real – full of greed and corruption both private and in the Medicare bureaucracy. Sadly, I suspect that this fiction could be all too real. I really enjoyed the characters of Bob and Angela. The story is well written although there were some tense errors that needed editing. That was only a minor distraction as I liked the plot and the twists that made for engaging reading. I recommend this to readers who like a mystery and who can stomach reading about corruption in the medical system.

I received this from the author for an honest review.

Audible Book Review: This Present Darkness by Frank Peretti

This is a life-changing story of spiritual warfare.
This Present Darkness
Written by: Frank Peretti
Narrated by: Jack Sondericker

Length: 17 hrs and 25 mins
Unabridged Audiobook
Release Date:06-30-08
Publisher: Books in Motion
Genre: Religious, Inspirational, Suspense
My Rating: 4.25 of 5.0

Publisher's Summary
A small town newspaper editor and a local minister uncover a web of conspiracy while an unseen battle between the angels of good and evil takes place in the town of Ashton.
©1986 Frank Peretti; (P)2005 Books in Motion

Review:
Ashton is a small college community that is being overtaken by proponents of a belief in ‘Universal Consciousness’. This society group promotes meditation that allows people to open themselves to demons disguised as spirit guides. The town leaders including the mayor, the sheriff, a church pastor and college trustees, are all involved in corruption that pushes non-conforming people out of their jobs and out of town. But there are two new men in town, unknown to each other who are about to make a difference.

Marshall is a big city newsman who bought the local newspaper so he could semi-retire. He is still committed to quality news and it isn’t long before he begins to wonder what is going on when his attractive and effective reporter is arrested as a hooker. As they begin to investigate the ‘misunderstanding and mistaken identity’ they realize that they are getting different stories and there is a lot of tension in the town.

At another end of town, Henry Busche is the new Pastor of a small community church. He is insisting on following the Bible even in the face of forceful opposition by wealthy, powerful and influential members in the congregation.

Angels begin to gather in the town to give strength to Pastor Busche and his small but ardent congregation. Although the angels are gathering, they are not permitted to take action until certain events take place. Then they have to hope that their ranks, and the prayer coverage of the faithful, will be enough to defeat the demon hordes who have been planning to overtake the college and the town.

The author presents a clear picture of the battle of good and evil wrapped in a suspenseful story. Demons whisper in the ears of men until they work their way into control. On the other side are the faithful remnant who provide prayer support for the angels in the heavenly battle. I had never truly pictured spiritual warfare this clearly until I read this book in the 1980s. Reading this completely changed my prayer life. As I started listening to the story this time, I again felt the strength and powerful awe of the message. I know several of the ladies in the book club had trouble getting into the book but others felt the same excitement that I felt. I highly recommend this book, and the sequel, Piercing the Darkness, to anyone who has a desire to visualize spiritual warfare.

Audio Notes: The character voices are well done by Jack Sondericker. Sadly, the production sounded like it was inside a metal room with an echo. Although that was initially distracting, I pushed past it and still enjoyed the narration.

I have not read this since the late 1980s. We read this for our Ladies' Book Club. Our August meeting was postponed so we won’t be discussing this until September. I purchased this in 2012 so it qualifies for Mount TBR Challenge as well as my Audio Challenge.

Audio Book Review: Making Amends by Melinda Clayton

This is an engaging suspense drama with excellent narration.

Making Amends
Written by: Melinda Clayton
Narrated by: Michelle Babb

Length: 5 hrs and 49 mins
Unabridged Audiobook
Release Date:03-16-16
Publisher: Thomas-Jacob Publishing, LLC
Genre: Suspense
My Rating: 4.25 of 5.0

Publisher's Summary
On a beautiful fall evening, in the middle of a game of hide-and-seek, five-year-old Bobby Clark is kidnapped by his estranged father, a shiftless man with a history of domestic violence and drug abuse. Bobby's twin brother Ricky watches, terrified, from his hiding place behind the bougainvillea, while mother Tabby, who also struggles with addiction, lies inebriated on the living room floor.
Bobby isn't seen by his loved ones again until a fateful morning 25 years later, when video of his arrest dominates the morning news. He has been charged with the murder of his father, but before the trial can begin, he manages to escape.
As Tabby and Ricky absorb the news of Bobby's return and subsequent escape, Tabby is convinced he'll come home to the quiet Florida street from which he was taken so long ago. But when events begin to spiral out of control, she's left to wonder: is a child born to be evil, or shaped to be evil? And in the end, when it's time to make amends, does it really matter?
©2015 Melinda Clayton (P)2016 Melinda Clayton

Review:
Tabby was raised in the foster care system until she was booted to the streets when she reached 18. She was ripe to be caught in a downhill web of alcohol and drugs with the help of her dissolute, abusive husband, Vernon Clark. When Tabby learned she was pregnant…with twins no less…she managed to get clean for the pregnancy and delivery of two beautiful boys, Bobby and Ricky. Sadly, after they were born she fell back into bad habits. Tabby loved her boys but lived on the edge of consciousness.

Then, one morning when the boys were five years old their father swooped in and kidnapped Bobby. Tabby’s best friend, Von, shocked Tabby into sobriety for the sake of Ricky. But Tabby remained obsessed over the loss of her son. She got little help from the authorities to find him. Twenty-five years later the authorities finally found Bobby. He has made the news for being arrested for the murder of Vernon, his father.

Ricky works for a scandal sheet newspaper which specializes on getting the dirt on the periphery of the big news stories. Ricky knows his boss will be merciless in digging out the old family history on his mother and his brother’s kidnapping. Ricky would love to shield his mother but his co-workers tend to be relentless.

Tabby is anxious to get to Bobby and help him. She is sure that the killing was self-defense after years of abuse. Ricky will do what he can to help his mother and protect her although his own feelings about Bobby are mixed. Before Tabby and Ricky can arrive at the police station, Bobby has escaped. Now Ricky is even more conflicted not sure how his mother will cope with the pressure of the press and the renewed loss of her ‘first son’. Although she clearly loved Ricky somehow he was always “second place”.

I enjoyed the easy, natural flow of the writing style which is very straightforward. The story unfolds from alternating character perspectives by Tabby, Ricky and Von. Von is Tabby’s longtime friend and boss. As much as she wants to be there for Tabby, she has her hands full coping with and caring for her husband who is suffering from Alzheimer’s.

This is a fascinating and gripping portrayal of several issues including, addiction, loss of a child, and caring for an Alzheimer's patient. The book description hints at what may occur so parts are not completely surprising. However, the final resolution is a bit of a heart wrenching twist as Tabby decides she must make amends to her sons.

Drama’s are not my favorite genre and I wasn’t quite sure how I would react to the family drama aspect of this story. I was very glad to find that the combination of writing perspectives, psychological suspense and insightful narration made this an engrossing listen. I recommend this to readers who do like family drama with the added kick of suspense.

Audio Notes: Michelle Babb does a wonderful job with the narration of this story. She manages to

convey the personalities of the characters that adds to the interest and suspense. The narration enhanced my enjoyment of this gripping story.

I received this audio from the narrator through Audiobook Blast (now Audiobook Boom) for an honest review. It qualifies for my Audio Challenge and M in Alphabet Challenge.

Book Review: Violets in February by Clare Revell

I really enjoyed the characters and action, as well as the faith message shared in this book.
Violets in February
by Clare Revell

File Size: 855 KB
Print Length: 122 pages
Publisher: Pelican Book Group (January 8, 2016)
ASIN: B01AR4ZMN8
Genre: Christian Romance, Suspense
My Rating: 4.25 of 5.0

When uptight missionary, Lucy Boyd is injured her only ride to the hospital 200 miles away is the scary looking guy who delivers their supplies every two weeks. Not only is he scary, he's obviously quite heathen based on the earring in his ear, the heavy metal music blasting from his truck when he pulls into the compound, and his salty language. Jed Gorman doesn't like people, especially Christians. Shuttled from foster home to foster home after the death of his parents, he's had enough "Christian Charity" to last a lifetime. The last thing he needs is that uptight missionary woman as a passenger. But when he sees that her knee is the size of a football he can't say no. It's going to be a rough ride, his truck is old, the monsoon season has hit, and there are guerrillas in the jungle...

Review:
Lucy Boyd is a straitlaced missionary doctor serving the people in Africa. She is respected by the staff and the natives. She looks down on and askance at the brash, swearing bloke who delivers the supplies, Jed Gorman. Jed is quick to taunt Lucy, needling her with his loud music and loud, salty language. Jed had a troubled past, being passed from one foster home to another, that left him with a disdain for Christians since his experience taught him they don’t life what they supposedly preach.

Lucy is the only doctor in the area for miles around. She is horrified when an injured father and young girl arrive for treatment after barely escaping from an attack by rebels in the jungle. Lucy hurts when she isn’t able to save her patients. Then an apparent rebel gang arrives with an injured leader. Lucy is reluctant to treat him but her boss reminds her that the mission is there to show mercy and grace to all in need. She treats the injury and the man is sheltered until he is able to travel again.

Lucy is exhausted from her tireless work and accidentally falls. Now that she has suffered a serious injury she is reluctant to follow the standard advice. Her boss and aides know that she must seek help at the city hospital. The only person available to get her there is Jed. He isn’t thrilled with the idea but a threatening storm leaves his battered, but trusty utility (Ute) truck as the only option.

The two slowly share about their childhood and their issues as they cope with the long and dangerous road. A washed out bridge send them off in another direction where they must try to escape the rebels.

I liked both characters in this story. They were a bit extreme but well developed with background that help shaped their personalities. I liked how Jed learns trust and faith through the ordeal while sharing a reminder to Lucy that she needs to give and seek forgiveness to settle demons from her past. The sniping opposites slowly develop a sweet romance while the action keeps the story moving at a good pace.

I am so glad that I received both book 1 and 2 in this series to read together. I enjoy the author’s clean writing style and her ability to share faith issues in real life settings. Maybe I rated the first book too harshly but I really had a hard time with the female lead, even though I recognize that the author appears to shape her characters on the extreme edge of their issues. I really enjoyed reading book 2 and think that the whole series would probably provide engaging entertainment together with good faith messages. I recommend these to readers who enjoy character driven Christian novels with a touch of suspense.

I received this title, and the first book in the series, from PBG (Pelican Book Group) Booklovers for an honest review. This qualifies for "V" in Alphabet Challenge.

Book Review: The Colossus by Ranjini Iyer

There is action, adventure and danger in this medical mystery/suspense.
The Colossus
by Ranjini Iyer

File Size: 745 KB
Print Length: 254 pages
Publisher: HighLine Editions; New edition (February 7, 2015)
ASIN: B016TX3HWE
Genre: Action, Adventure, Mystery
My Rating: 3.75 of 5.0

Maxine Rosen, a demure, clumsy, Chicago caterer gets more than she bargains for when she discovers her father’s coded research document linked to health pills unearthed from the ancient Indus Valley civilization. The pills, she learns, carry frightening secrets about the true nature of her father’s death; a truth that may be more than she can bear. Enlisting the help of handsome professor Julian McIntosh, Max travels across the continents to unlock the mystery of her father’s research, struggling to keep one step ahead of a powerful German pharmaceutical company who will stop at nothing to keep the disturbing document under wraps.

Review:
Maxine Rosen is a superb cook who struggles with her own weight. She hopes to make a success of the catering business she is building in Chicago. She was young when her mother died and hurt by her alcoholic father’s apparent suicide. Max is surprised when a scientist friend of her father arrives and implies that her father’s death may not have been suicide. Lars begins to explain a little about the research that her father had been working on and asks if Max can help decode the research papers. Lars and Max are threatened by a thug who takes papers he thinks are part of the research. Lars returns home to London leaving a trail of questions.

Max seeks help at a local University and meets handsome professor, Julian McIntosh. Julian is intrigued by the history involving an ancient civilization and begins to help Max gather information. Although Julian has been in a long time relationship, he is drawn to Max and finds her full figure attractive.

Max sets off to London trying to track down mysteries. Julian follows when she calls in a panic. The two set off following clues and trying to gather intel as they try to avoid the thug and a second enemy who is trying to capture any secrets they uncover.

The medical mystery plot-line includes engaging action, adventure and danger. Unfortunately, I didn’t care for Max’s squeamish, mostly wimpy, character. Her reactions were just this side of hysterical and nonsensical to me. Every once in a while she showed some sense and bravery, but usually I was struck by her weakness and stupidity. So – she didn’t work for me. Julian was an okay character although he delayed telling the truth of his status.

The writing moves fairly well with occasional spurts of strong description. The feel of the story is action adventure with a determined, if clumsy and wimpy, heroine. The medical issue is an interesting theory and the author adds notes at the end as supporting research. This book would be good for those who are interested by the mystery and adventure nature. There are many more positive reviews at Amazon so I suggest checking those and perhaps reading the “look inside” to get a feel for the book.

I received this for review last spring but it got lost in email. This is part of my TBR Triple Dog Dare.

Book Review: Zion's Road: A Love Story about Faith and Redemption by Imani Wisdom

I liked the message in this story given through a rather different presentation.
Zion's Road: A Love Story about Faith and Redemption
by Imani Wisdom

• File Size: 192 KB
• Print Length: 48 pages
• Publisher: Pink Noire Publications, LLC (January 21, 2014)
• ASIN: B0093GSA6I

Genre: Romance, Suspense
My Rating: 4.0 of 5.0

Temptation lurks like a waiting virus, grabbing you when you least expect it, ravishing your heart, mind, and soul—convincing you to take the easy way, instead of staying on the right path.
Zion’s Road: A Love Story is about faith and redemption. Harold Smith—a former Klansman in a small town of Tulla Springs, Mississippi—discovers second chances are possible when he learns that walking on the right path leads to an adventure of discovering his truths. During Harold’s journey, he meets a stranger who is opposite to what he believes.
The two travelers share an experience, as they delve into one of the mysteries from Harold’s past to find a shattering reality. Left to wonder that everything he knew in his life contradicts these revelations, how will this new discovery affect Harold’s pursuit to redemption? Will the heartfelt pain be too unbearable to complete his journey?

Review:
This is not quite what I expected but it is very interesting. Harold Smith was raised in the 1930s by a father whose family believed that whites were superior to blacks. Harold’s father was a fervent Klansman in Mississippi. As a teenager Harold had an experience that might have changed his view of the colored people in his community but instead he joined his friends and father treating them badly. At age 86, Harold is still spewing racial prejudice to his nephew. Then Harold meets a young, light skinned Negro boy who challenges him to take a journey. Harold has to make a choice to stay where he is (which might be a very dark, gruesome place) or risk moving along and discovering painful truths of his past.

This story addresses a very extreme attitude of racism that I found to be awful and difficult to understand, especially when certain facts of Harold’s past are revealed. The hatred that is portrayed is really distressing but it did exist in those years and among a certain group. (Sad to think that it might still exist today with some people and races or cultures.) The author presents a story that implies that a lot of the hatred and bigotry is handed down through the family. Although that may have some basis, we eventually mature to a place where we become responsible for our own choices. Harold has a chance to see this and to make new choices. Others around him also have this chance but the results may be different.

Although there is a sweet love story revealed in Harold’s past, I do not like that it was adulterous – that is also anathema to me. I liked Harold’s gentle guides who showed him so much love in spite of his awful treatment and attitude toward them in the past. The guides showed grace and forgiveness that could help Harold make better choices and perhaps find redemption through a changed attitude.
The writing makes for easy reading and I would take another look at work by Ms. Wisdom. 

I read this for "Z” to complete my Alphabet Soup Challenge. It was a free book from 2013 on my TBR Kindle shelf. It is still available for free.

Audible Book Review: Suspect by Robert Crais

This is a great suspense, police mystery with the bonus of a canine dog!
Suspect
Written by: Robert Crais
Narrated by: MacLeod Andrews

Length: 8 hrs and 30 mins
Unabridged Audiobook
Release Date:01-22-13
Publisher: Brilliance Audio
Genre: Police Procedure
My Rating: 4.75 of 5.0

Publisher's Summary
Audie Award Finalist, Thriller/Suspense, 2014
For 25 years, Robert Crais has written extraordinary novels of crime and suspense. He is "a master of crime fiction" (Associated Press); "his novels get better with every new book" (Portland Oregonian); "Crais is hands-down the world’s greatest crime writer" (The Huffington Post).
But in Suspect, he may have written his most remarkable novel of all.
LAPD cop Scott James is not doing so well, not since a shocking nighttime assault by unidentified men killed his partner, Stephanie, nearly killed him, and left him enraged, ashamed, and ready to explode. He is unfit for duty - until he meets his new partner.
Maggie is not doing so well, either. The German shepherd survived three tours in Iraq and Afghanistan sniffing explosives before she lost her handler to an IED and sniper attack, and her PTSD is as bad as Scott’s.
They are each other’s last chance. He was a young cop on the rise; she was bred to guard and protect. Now they are shunned and shunted to the side. They are suspect. And together they will set out to investigate the one case that no one wants them to touch: the identity of the men who murdered Stephanie.
Nine months and sixteen days later, they remained free. They were still out there.
What they begin to find is nothing like what Scott has been told, and where it will lead them will take them both through the darkest moments of their own personal hells. Whether they will make it out again, no one can say.
Thrilling, emotional, intense, with some of the best characters and well-crafted writing in all of crime fiction, Suspect is further proof that "Crais just keeps getting better" (Publishers Weekly).
©2013 Robert Crais (P)2013 Brilliance Audio, Inc.

Review:
LAPD cop Scott James was working hard toward his career goal of becoming part of the Swat team. His goal is derailed one night when he and his female partner witness an assassination. After several masked men gun down two men in a car they turn their guns on Scott and his partner. They think they killed both officers but Scott survived his injuries, carrying guilt for his partner’s death.

Nine months later Scott has shifted departments as a last effort to remain on the police force. Scott teams up with Maggie, a retired military dog who was injured by an explosion that killed her handler. Scott is given a couple of weeks to prove that he and Maggie can make the canine team. He not only needs to retrain Maggie but he needs to train himself to become a ‘dog’ person and accept a dog as his new partner.

Scott is asked to meet with the new detectives who are working the murder case where his partner was killed. He is given access to all of the files and information. Slowly he uncovers discrepancies in the investigation. But the clues he finds bring a startling suspicion. A witness Scott interviews is murdered and Scott is being framed. Scott and his new friends, including Maggie, are in danger. Scott needs to pull the clues together before anyone else is killed.

I enjoyed the wonderful suspense as well as the author’s somewhat unique writing technique. The author presents the opening and later chapters from Maggie’s thought perspective. These alternate with chapters from Scott’s view and a few from the view of Scott’s new friend, one of the case investigators. Maggie’s perspective adds a whole new light to the intensity and emotion of the story.

I appreciated the unfolding of the murder plot almost as much as I loved the relationship that grows between Scott and Maggie. There were times I found my player hard to turn off. I will definitely seek more work by Mr. Crais. I recommend this title to readers of mystery and suspense, those who like police procedure and to those who love the dog element.

Audio Notes: MacLeod Andrews does a good job with the narration. He conveys Scott's angst and manages to portray a believable Maggie. The audio added to my enjoyment of this book and I recommend this as a fast paced, suspenseful listen.

This is from my Audible TBR shelf (2013) and qualifies for my Audio Challenge.