Audio Book Review: The Book of Riley: A Zombie Tale by Mark Tufo

This is a zombie tale with a dog hero.
The Book of Riley: A Zombie Tale
Written By: Mark Tufo
Narrated By: Sean Runnette

Duration: 2 hours 58 minutes
Publisher: Tantor Audio
Genres: Horror, Mystery, Thriller
My Rating: 4.0 of 5.0 Overall; Story 4.0; Narration 4.0.
#Fraterfest

Summary:
When the zombie apocalypse strikes without warning one dog will hold the fate of her pack in her paws. This is the story of Riley, an American bulldog. Follow along as she tries to keep her pack safe from a zombie apocalypse. Traveling with her are Ben-Ben the high strung Yorkie, her favorite two-legger Jessie, Jessie's younger brother Zachary, and Riley's arch enemy Patches the cat. They are a rag-tag group of survivors, who, when pushed to the limit, realize that they are all each other has.

Review:
Riley is a loving dog who wants to protect her human pack. She stands with the human alpha and is surprised to get help from the pip-squeak Yorkie, Ben-Ben. Of course, (according to Riley), the cowardly and obnoxious cat, Patches, hid in the bathroom with the rest of the human pack. When some of her human pack fall, Riley is forced to save the teen daughter, Jessie, and the baby child, Zachery. Riley is joined in the journey to safety by Ben-Ben and Patches who turns out to have some wisdom and cleverness – even if she remains a great annoyance.

I enjoyed the dog’s view which is filled with humor, base thoughts (food, smells and elimination process) and rivalry with the cat. I am fairly sure this is a spin off from the Zombie Fallout series. I had listened to Book 1 of the primary series in 2018 and have a prequel, Zombie Fallout: Zero, ready to go this week as a “Z” title. I think I liked the dog book more but I wouldn’t want a steady diet of this. I recommend the Riley books as quick reads/listens for those you enjoy zombie battles with pets, and humor.

Audio Notes:  It appears that Sean Runnette is the narrator for Mr. Tufo and he has adapted well to the characters, whether dogs, cats or military.

Source: 10/2020 Audiobooks.com Mystery Audiobook Club. This qualifies for 2020Audiobook goal and #Fraterfest.

Audio Book Review: The Haunted Forest Tour by James A. Moore and Jeff Strand

This wasn't as fun as it looked. Definitely horror trick, not treat.
The Haunted Forest Tour
Written By: James A. Moore, Jeff Strand
Narrated By: Joe Hempel

Date: August 2018
Duration: 8 hours 56 minutes
Publisher: Tantor Audio
Genre: Dark Fantasy, Horror
My Rating: 3.0 of 5.0 Overall; Story 3.0; Narration 3.5.

Summary:
Ladies and gentlemen, welcome to the Haunted Forest Tour! Sit back and enjoy a smooth ride in air-conditioned comfort as your heavily armored tram takes you through nature's most astonishing creation. The forest is packed to capacity with dangerous and terrifying creatures of all shapes, sizes, and hunger levels, and you'll get to observe these wonders in complete safety.
Howl with a werewolf! Gaze into the glowing eyes of a giant spider! Look right through a spooky ghost! See horrific monsters you couldn't even imagine, only inches away from you! Things with fangs, things with claws, things with dripping red jaws-you'll see them all!
Not thrilling enough? Well, it's Halloween, and so we're offering a very special tour through the Haunted Forest. The new route goes deeper into the woods than any civilians have ventured before, and you're guaranteed to get a good scare! Rest assured that every possible security precaution has been taken. The Haunted Forest Tour has a 100% safety record, and technical difficulties are unheard of. You will be in no danger whatsoever.
We promise.

Review:
A few years ago a strange deadly forest popped up out of nowhere devastating a small community in New Mexico. After the first days of death and terror the growth had stopped and has seemed to be contained. The owner of the land was able to send teams into the forest to build a state of the art, totally safe tour attraction. Since the initial spread, there have been no deaths, except for couple of accidents.

A select group of tourists, young and old, have gathered for a special Halloween, Haunted Forest Tour. The new Halloween route is special as it goes deeper into the forest and the guests are expecting to see all types of strange monsters. Most are excited about the adventure and everyone expects the ride to be a bit scary but fun and safe. And for half the trip all is good. Then the first tram bus stalls on the track. The monsters creep closer until the tour guide decides it might be a good idea to pass out the handful of weapons they have stowed on board…just in case.

The story begins with trauma and then moves to a theme similar to Jurassic Park. There is little development although the author presents a range of characters with different reasons and enthusiasm levels for the special tour. There is a wide assortment of monsters but after a while as they just kept coming, the descriptions became less interesting to me. I cared about some of the struggling characters but at about three quarters of the story I had just about had enough. I stuck it out, so I did learn the catalyst that brought the monsters out and a means of ending the terror was revealed. Even that was gruesome, but it was a relief that it was over.

I had hoped this would be fun but there were only a few flashes of fun that came through the horror and carnage. Also, I didn’t care for some male sexual fantasizing that got to be icky. This might be a good read for true horror fans but not for those looking for a light, monster story.

Audio Notes: Joe Hempel does a good job with the narration. There was some variety in the voices and I didn’t find confusion among the characters. The audio version helped me get to the end.

Source: 10/2020 Audiobooks.com Mystery Audiobook Club. This qualifies for 2020Audiobook goal.

Audio Book Review: The Utterly Uninteresting and Unadventurous Tales of Fred, the Vampire Accountant by Drew Hayes

This is fun, easy listening.

The Utterly Uninteresting and Unadventurous Tales of Fred, the Vampire Accountant --
Written by Drew Hayes
Narrated by Kirby Heyborne

Series: Fred, the Vampire Accountant, Book 1
Length: 7 hrs and 2 mins
Unabridged Audiobook
Release date: 02-24-15
Language: English
Publisher: Tantor Audio
Genre: Adventure, Fantasy, Humor, Satire
My Rating: 4.25 of 5.0 Overall; Story 4.25; Narration 4.25.

Publisher Description
Some people are born boring. Some live boring. Some even die boring. Fred managed to do all three, and when he woke up as a vampire, he did so as a boring one. Timid, socially awkward, and plagued by self-esteem issues, Fred has never been the adventurous sort.
One fateful night-different from the night he died, which was more inconvenient than fateful-Fred reconnects with an old friend at his high school reunion. This rekindled relationship sets off a chain of events thrusting him right into the chaos of the parahuman world: a world with chipper zombies, truck driver wereponies, maniacal necromancers, ancient dragons, and now one undead accountant trying his best to “survive.”
Because even after it’s over, life can still be a downright bloody mess.

Review:
Many people expect a vampire to be powerful, fierce, and maybe even suave. That isn’t Fred. Fred tells you himself that he was a timid, awkward, physically soft nerd while living and that didn’t change too much when he died. He may have slimmed down some and has strengths he calls on occasionally, but he is still timid and socially awkward. Fred attends his high school reunion and runs into a girl he liked during school but who he thought barely noticed him. Surprisingly, Krystal recognizes Fred and treats him nicely. Not only that, it turns out she recognizes what he is because she is an agent who hunts down out of control parahumans.

Though it is a bumble, Fred manages to help Krystal escape a dangerous situation. Then he joins her on several unexpected adventures where Fred accumulates unique friends like a cheerful zombie (not a brain-eating variety), a werepony. Fred and Krystal also face their share of monsters and Fred has to try to outthink some of them since he certainly can’t outwrestle them.

Fred may be mild-mannered, but he isn’t totally uninteresting. He repeatedly ends up in engaging adventures where it is fun to watch Fred outwit his opponents/enemies. I liked the easy flow of the chapters that share different misadventures, introducing the new characters along the way. In the end, there is a fun, interesting twist. The author is creative in the parahumans and writes with light humor that makes it fun to read/listen. I recommend this to readers who enjoy lighter paranormal characters.

Audio Notes: Kirby Heyborne does a good job with the narration. He captures Fred’s mild personality and manages to make the listening move along with interest. I am glad I listened to this.

Source: September 2019 Chirp Purchase $.99. This qualifies for 2020TBR and 2020Audiobook goals.

Audible Book Review: Pass of Fire, Destroyermen Series, Book 14 by Taylor Anderson

I enjoyed this continuation of the series even though it is full of war action.

Pass of Fire
Destroyermen Series, Book 14
By: Taylor Anderson
Narrated by: William Dufris

Series: Destroyermen, Book 14
Length: 19 hrs and 50 mins
Unabridged Audiobook
Release date: 08-13-19
Language: English
Publisher: Tantor Audio
Genre: Alternate History, Sci Fi
My Rating: 4.5 of 5.0 Overall; Story 4.5; Narration 5.0.

Publisher's Summary
Time is running out for the Grand Human and Lemurian Alliance. The longer they take to prepare for their confrontations with the reptilian Grik, the Holy Dominion, and the League of Tripoli, the stronger their enemies become. Ready or not, they have to move - or the price in blood will break them.
Matt Reddy and his battered old destroyer USS Walker lead the greatest army the humans and their Lemurian allies have ever assembled up the Zambezi toward the ancient Grik capital city. Standing against them is the largest, most dangerous force of Grik yet gathered.
On the far side of the world, General Shinya and his Army of the Sisters are finally prepared for their long-expected assault on the mysterious El Paso del Fuego. Not only is the dreaded Dominion ready and waiting for them; they've formed closer, more sinister ties with the fascist League of Tripoli.
Everything is on the line in both complex, grueling campaigns, and the Grand Alliance is stretched to its breaking point. Victory is the only option, whatever the cost, because there can be no second chances.
©2019 Taylor Anderson (P)2019 Tantor

Review:
This volume continues with the struggles of the Grand Alliance against the Grik, the Dominion, and a new enemy, the League of Tripoli. There are battles in about five different locations. All battles are described with some strategy from the Humans, the Lemurians, and even the Grik, some of who are growing beyond their long time traditions.

First General Regent Champion Esshk is consumed with power even to the point of betrayal of the Grik Celestial Mother (the Queen). It isn’t clear how General Halik will respond to events. Currently, he has agreed to work with the Allies but that could change at any time. Then there is Senior First of One Hundred, Jash. Jash has been trained and elevated by Esshk but doesn’t totally agree with his actions. Jash is intent on trying to save the Celestial Mother when the Alliance attacks the second holy city, Sofesshk, in order to take the new Celestial Mother as a hostage.

The leaders of the Dominion are convinced that they can defeat the Grand Alliance. The troops of Lemurians under Major Blas, and Humans under General Blair of the Empire of the New Britain Isles, are outnumbered. Do they have enough heart and strategy to hold out until reinforcements arrive?

This book seemed more full of battles and less full of personal developments. Matt Reddy’s wife, Nurse Sandra, is benched while she awaits the delivery of their child. We do get plenty of time and interesting development with Silva, Larry, and even the Celestial Mother. I know that not all of the characters can survive the battles so I flinch whenever we risk the old favorites. I am still totally enjoying the series and am looking forward to picking up book 15, Winds of Wraith, due out in June.

Audio Notes:William Dufris is such a voice for this series. He has established voices for the various characters, human, Lemurian, Grik, Dominion, British, Irish, Spanish, male and female. I do note that the print/ebook versions have some interesting maps and drawings of the many ships. Still, I love listening to the audio versions.

My Reviews for the Destroyermen Series
Into the Storm, Book 1 -- guess I didn't write a review.

Crusade 4.5 

Maelstrom 4.5

Distant Thunders  4.75

Rising Tides 5.0

Firestorm 4.25

Iron Gray Sea  4.25

Storm Surge 4.5

Deadly Shores  4.75
Straits of Hell: Destroyermen, Book 10 5.0
Blood in the Water: Destroyermen, Book 11 4.5
Devil's Due: Destroyermen, Book 12 4.5
River of Bones (Destroyermen, #13) 4.5

Source: July 2019 Audible Credit. This qualifies for 2020TBR and 2020Audiobook goals.

Audible Book Review: Death in the English Countryside by Sara Rosett

This was an easy cozy mystery with a hint of romance.

Death in the English Countryside
Murder on Location Series, Book 1
By: Sara Rosett
Narrated by: Sarah Mollo-Christensen

Series: Murder on Location Series, Book 1
Length: 6 hrs and 54 mins
Unabridged Audiobook
Release date: 03-20-18
Language: English
Publisher: Tantor Audio
Genre: Amateur Sleuth, Cozy Mystery
My Rating: 4.0 of 5.0 Overall; Story 4.0; Narration 4.25

Publisher's Summary
Location scout and Jane Austen aficionado Kate Sharp is thrilled when the company she works for lands the job of finding locations for a new film adaptation of Pride and Prejudice, but then her boss, Kevin, fails to return from a scouting trip to England. Kate travels to England to salvage Kevin's and the company's reputation before word gets out that he is missing.
Things go from bad to worse when Kate arrives in Nether Woodsmoor, a quaint village of golden stone cottages and rolling green hills, only to find no trace of Kevin except his abandoned luggage. Even the rumpled, easygoing local scout they consulted, Alex, doesn't know where Kevin might be.
Increasingly worried about Kevin and with an antsy director waiting for updates about the preproduction details, Kate embarks on a search that includes a pub-crawl and cozy cottages as well as stately country manors. But Kevin remains missing, and she begins to suspect that the picturesque village and beautiful countryside may not be as idyllic as they seem.
©2014 Sara Rosett (P)2018 Tantor

Review:
Kate Sharp, who has a solid background on Jane Austen, is thrilled when the location company she works for is engaged to find locations for a new film adaption of Pride and Prejudice. Her boss and mentor, Kevin, traveled to England to scout properties but he didn’t return when scheduled. Kate flies to England to try to locate Kevin. Initially she tries to keep it quiet that Kevin is missing but it is hard to keep secrets in a small English village.

After Kate tours the local pubs, she begins to work with local contact Alex. He is more than happy to show her the beautiful manor properties that he and Kevin were looking at. Kate meets the affable owner, the arrogant and resistant property manager and a seductive, jealous owner.

Unexpectedly Kate and Alex uncover evidence of foul play. The local DCI is quick to focus on Kate as a suspect, questioning ever movement since she arrived in town. Kate determines to investigate herself trying to discover what secrets are hidden in this lovely village.

This is an easy cozy which takes a little bit of time to build into the mystery. Kate has relationship baggage that makes her not a particularly warm character. On the other hand, Alex, who happens to be an America who has relocated to the area, tends to be welcoming and gracious, although a bit mysterious himself. The building friendship between Kate and Alex is a very soft romance element.

The mystery clues are pursued with Kate’s plodding persistence. The DCI is a wonderful intense character who adds to the story along with the quirky property owners. I liked the location scounting element and the setting provides beautiful descriptions. The tie to P&P gives a touch of interest for Austen fans. The light with just a touch of romance makes a nice cozy for fans of the genre.

Audio Notes: I enjoyed the narration by Sarah Mollo-Christensen. She manages the British and English accents well and helps the story move along by keeping Kate’s introspective moments from dragging. The narration helps to make this an easy listen.

Source: 9/29/18 Audible Daily Deal $2.95. This qualifies for 2019TBR and 2019Audiobook goals.

Audible Book Review: An Accidental Death: A DC Smith Investigation Series, Book 1 by Peter Grainger

This is a very good, engaging mystery.

An Accidental Death: A DC Smith Investigation Series, Book 1
Written by: Peter Grainger
Narrated by: Gildart Jackson

Series: DC Smith, Book 1
Length: 6 hrs and 52 mins
Unabridged Audiobook
Release date: 08-26-16
Language: English
Publisher: Tantor Audio
Genre: British Detective, Crime Fiction, Mystery
My Rating: 4.5 of 5.0 Overall; Story 4.25; Narration 4.5.

Publisher's Summary
The story opens with the apparently accidental drowning of a sixth form student in the Norfolk countryside. As a matter of routine, or so it seems, the case passes across the desk of Detective Sergeant Smith, recently returned to work after an internal investigation into another case that has led to tensions between officers at Kings Lake police headquarters. As an ex-DCI, Smith could have retired by now, and it is clear that some of his superiors wish that he would do so. The latest trainee detective to work with him is the son of a member of his former team, and together they begin to unravel the truth about what happened to Wayne Fletcher. As the investigation proceeds, it becomes clear that others are involved - some seem determined to prevent it, some seem to be taking too much interest. In the end, Smith operates alone, having stepped too far outside standard procedures to ask for support. He knows that his own life might be at risk but he has not calculated on the life of his young assistant also being put in danger.
©2013 Peter Grainger (P)2016 Tantor.

Review:
Sergeant Smith is a bit older and old school detective, a former D.C.I. (Detective Chief Inspector) . He isn’t everyone’s favorite detective but many respect his long term, senior experience, particularly his immediate superior, D.I. Reeve. Smith has just returned to the office after a short leave as the result of an internal investigation. Reeve presents him with two tasks: begin the training of a new rookie, Chris Waters, and take a look at and sign off (maybe) on an apparent accidental drowning of a local sixth form student.

The weekend officers gathered the facts, wrote up the report which was ready to be signed. But Reeve spotted a potential issue and slips the file to Smith. Smith is pretty quick to pick up on a discrepancy and he assigns Waters procedural investigative tasks as Smith interviews the mortuary technologist who added an interesting note to the autopsy report.

Smith pursues one clue and lead after another with dogged determination. Even when sneers come from other officers and a potential “stand down” order comes from higher up, Smith insists on pushing on. Smith and Waters are trying to find a witness who has failed to come forward and who may be the last to have seen the victim alive. The investigation leads Smith to a Balkan community in the area and to a possible connection to a former military officer. Smith spots someone following him and he realizes that his inquiries are bringing more risk to him and his young partner.

As he pursues the facts there is an interesting glimpse into his background through his relationship with other officers, including with Waters who happens to be the son of one of Smith’s oldest friends from the force. I thoroughly enjoyed this British police procedural. Smith is a well-developed character whose strengths have created some tension which adds moments of humor as he faces off with the department Superintendent. The well plotted mystery has elements of political animus that is timely. The story moves at a good pace and the emphasis is on hard detective work rather than graphic violence. I would be glad to read more stories featuring Detective Smith. I recommend this to readers who enjoy a good police mystery.

Audio Notes: Gildart Jackson provides perfect accent and energy to the narration. He provides unique voices that fit the characters. His performance helped me to enjoy the quick listen. I would be glad to listen to more title narrated by Mr. Jackson.

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

Audible Book Review: The More of Less by Joshua Becker

This audiobook added to my motivation to declutter and downsize.
The More of Less
By: Joshua Becker
Narrated by: Joshua Becker

Length: 6 hrs and 43 mins
Unabridged Audiobook
Release date: 05-03-16
Language: English
Publisher: Tantor Audio
Genre: Cleaning, Nonfiction, Self Help
My Rating: 4.0 of 5.0, Overall, Story and Performance

Publisher's Summary
Most of us know we own too much stuff. We feel the weight and burden of our clutter, and we tire of cleaning and managing and organizing. While excess consumption leads to bigger houses, faster cars, fancier technology, and cluttered homes, it never brings happiness. Rather, it results in a desire for more. It redirects our greatest passions to things that can never fulfill, and it distracts us from the very lives we wish we were living. But it doesn't have to be this way.
In The More of Less, Joshua Becker helps you:
Recognize the life-giving benefits of owning less
Realize how all the stuff you own is keeping you from pursuing your dreams
Craft a personal, practical approach to decluttering your home and life
Experience the joys of generosity
Learn why the best part of minimalism isn't a clean house; it's a full life
It's time to own your possessions instead of letting them own you. After all, the beauty of minimalism isn't in what it takes away. It's in what it gives.
©2016 Becoming Minimalist LLC (P)2016 Tantor

Review:
There are mixed motivations and mixed methods, but the goal is to minimalize the stuff we are responsible for and the time it takes from being with those we love or doing things we would love to do. This was a good resource to go with the decluttering book I read a few weeks ago.

Mr. Becker kept the topic interesting as he shared how he first realized that he was being controlled by his possessions. He decided that having time to spend with his young son was more important than working more, acquiring more and being responsible for more. He explained how some ideas worked and some didn’t and he noted how it is important to discuss steps with your spouse/significant other.

Becker shares how others made a similar decision and how each person can start at their own pace. Some people moved in to ‘tiny homes’ so they could move about more freely. Some sold their possessions so they could travel and explore or go on missions to help others.

This work tends to cover the reasons that people choose to minimalize more than provided details on how to accomplish the goal. He does give some steps that worked for him and others, but he stresses that each person can work in their own way at their own pace. Becker encourages his readers to make the transition a life change, not just a short term project. He shares some Biblical foundations and supports that were fine with me, but might not be comfortable for everyone.

I enjoyed this and think it is handy to have to remind me to keep working on reducing my clutter even if it is a little at a time. I recommend this to readers who are interested in the idea of pursing living with less.

Audio Notes: Mr. Becker serves as his own narrator and I felt he did a fine job. He was clearly comfortable with the material and delivered it in a natural manner. I think listening was easier for me although some people might like have the print version for easier reference back.

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

Audible Review: Zombie Fallout, Book 1, by Mark Tufo

This seemed a fairly common zombie conflict.
Zombie Fallout
Zombie Fallout, Book 1
By: Mark Tufo
Narrated by: Sean Runnette

Series: Zombie Fallout, Book 1
Length: 10 hrs and 30 mins
Unabridged Audiobook
Release date: 03-27-12
Language: English
Publisher: Tantor Audio
Genre: Horror, Humor, Post-Apocalyptic
My Rating: 4.0 of 5.0

Publisher's Summary
It was a flu season like no other. With the H1N1 virus running rampant throughout the country, people lined up in droves to try and attain one of the coveted vaccines. What was not known was the effect this largely untested, rushed to market, inoculation was to have on the unsuspecting throngs. Within days, feverish folk throughout the country convulsed, collapsed, and died, only to be reborn. With a taste for brains, blood, and bodies, these modern-day zombies scoured the lands for their next meal. Overnight the country became a killing ground for the hordes of zombies that ravaged the land.
This is the story of Michael Talbot, his family, and his friends: a band of ordinary people trying to get by in extraordinary times. When disaster strikes, Mike, a self-proclaimed survivalist, does his best to ensure the safety and security of those he cares for. Book one of the Zombie Fallout Trilogy follows our lead character at his self-deprecating, sarcastic best. What he encounters along the way leads him down a long dark road, always skirting the edge of insanity.
Can he keep his family safe? Can he discover the secret behind Tommy's powers? Can he save anyone from the zombie queen? Encircled in a seemingly safe haven called Little Turtle, Mike and his family, together with the remnants of a tattered community, must fight against a relentless, ruthless, unstoppable force. This last bastion of civilization has made its final stand. God help them all.
©2010 Mark Tufo (P)2012 Tantor

Review:
Mike, a man in his mid-40s, is an ordinary man with his wife, Tracy, a daughter, Nicole, in college, 19-year-old Justin, 15-year-old Travis and an aging bull dog named Henry. Mike is a former Marine, but that didn’t prepare him for zombies. When the “flu” turns his neighbors into the walking dead, Mike and Travis head to Walmart to pick up Justin. In addition to Justin, they bring home overweight, affable Tommy. Tommy quickly becomes part of the family, saving them a time or two with an unexplained second sight. Nicole and her boyfriend make it home to make it one strong family group.

Mike was already a prepper, but the family begins to scavenge for supplies to aid in survival. They plan to hunker down with other survivors. in their subdivision of Little Turtle. There are some who cooperate, helping to build a defensive wall. Others don’t cooperate, and some are downright psychopaths. Still, the real enemies are the zombie hoards.

The story is written as journal entries, mostly by Mike but some by Tracy. The tale follows the family as they face the conflicts and risk their lives. There are otherworldly elements that add weirdness to the horror. There is a rather crude sense of humor with cliched phrases. This underlies plenty of death and foul language. I wasn’t gripped by the characters and found this to be a standard zombie conflict. I’m not planning on picking up the next books (unless I need a “Z” title). I recommend it to readers who like zombie stories.

Audio Notes: Sean Runnette does a fine job with the narration. It is all a bit slow at the beginning but soon enough he is portraying the characters through their distinct personalities and leaning into the humor. I preferred listening to this rather than reading.

Source: 2016 Audible Sale Purchase. This qualifies for 2018TBR, Audible and Alphabet Challenge.

Audible Book Review: NPCs by Drew Hayes

This is fun 'gaming' adventure - rooting for the underdogs!

NPCs
By: Drew Hayes
Narrated by: Roger Wayne

Series: Spells, Swords, & Stealth, Book 1
Length: 7 hrs and 50 mins
Unabridged Audiobook
Release date: 09-23-14
Language: English
Publisher: Tantor Audio
Genre: Fantasy, Humor
My Rating: 4.5 of 5.0

Publisher's Summary
What happens when the haggling is done and the shops are closed? When the quest has been given, the steeds saddled, and the adventurers are off to their next encounter? They keep the world running, the food cooked, and the horses shoed, yet what adventurer has ever spared a thought or concern for the Non-Player Characters? In the town of Maplebark, four such NPCs settle in for a night of actively ignoring the adventurers drinking in the tavern when things go quickly and fatally awry. Once the dust settles, these four find themselves faced with an impossible choice: pretend to be adventurers undertaking a task of near-certain death or see their town and loved ones destroyed. Armed only with salvaged equipment, second-hand knowledge, and a secret that could get them killed, it will take all manner of miracles if they hope to pull off their charade. And even if they succeed, the deadliest part of their journey may well be what awaits them at its end.
©2014 Andrew Hayes (P)2014 Tantor

Review:
This story starts with four rough Role Playing Game characters (RPGs) making errors and dying in a tavern. The death is observed by four Non Player Characters: the half-ogre tavern owner/bartender named Grumph, a roughish gnome named Thistle, a rather clumsy local guard, Eric, and the mayor’s tomboyish daughter, Gabrielle. The NPCs find a summons from the King requiring four unnamed ‘heroes’ to travel to Solium to receive a quest.

The summons calls for a paladin (guard), a barbarian, a wizard and a rogue. If the group doesn’t arrive, it could anger the King and result in the destruction of their entire town. Rather than allow that, the four NPCs decide to take the summons and seek the quest, hoping for rewards…and adventure. The intrepid four assign themselves the roles they think fit and head off.

Shortly after beginning their journey the new heroes are captured by Goblins. By a strange magical event the heroes escape, discovering their true roles in the process. They each will grow into their roles as they pursue the quest with bravery, strength, magic and cleverness.

I haven’t played an RPG in years since they take time (that I prefer to use reading). The story concept was interesting, and the execution was fun and engaging. I listened late into the night and was rooting for the underdog NPC heroes all the way! I will be getting book two to continue with the adventure. I recommend this to readers who enjoy action adventure served up with humor.

Audio Notes: Roger Wayne does a wonderful job with the narration. He provides clear narration with distinct voices for the characters. The audio enhanced my enjoyment of the story.

Source: 2017 Audible Credit Purchase. This is part of 2018TBR, Audiobook and Alphabet Challenges.

Audible Book Review: Devil's Due: Destroyermen, Book 12, by Taylor Anderson

I really enjoy this series!
Devil’s Due
Destroyermen, Book 12
By: Taylor Anderson
Narrated by: William Dufris

Series: Destroyermen, Book 12
Length: 19 hrs and 22 mins
Unabridged Audiobook
Release date: 06-13-17
Language: English
Publisher: Tantor Audio
Genre: Alternate History, Sci Fi
My Rating: 4.5 of 5.0

Publisher's Summary
Taylor Anderson continues his powerful New York Times best-selling series of alternate history and military strategy, as the conflict is about to become terrifyingly personal....
Captain Matt Reddy and the crew of the USS Walker have been fighting for their lives ever since their ship was swept from the Pacific to another world and they became embroiled in a deadly conflict between their Lemurian allies and the ravening Grik. But things are about to get worse. With Reddy's family and allies held prisoner by the mad General Kurokawa, the mysterious League and evil Dominion plotting schemes of their own, and the Grik trying to build their swarm and concentrate power, Reddy faces danger on all sides. Although desperate to confront Kurokawa, Captain Reddy fears he's subordinating the war effort for personal reasons. But Kurokawa is too dangerous to be left alone. With the mighty League battleship Savoie at his command, he plots a terrible vengeance against Reddy and his tiny, battered destroyer. The stage is set for a devastating cataclysm, and Reddy and his allies will have to risk everything to protect what they hold dear.
©2017 Taylor Anderson (P)2017 Tantor

Review:
I was happy to be back in this alternate world with Captain Matt Reddy and his brave WWII American crew and new allies. The Alliance forces are spread out facing different enemies. In the last book, Captain Reddy’s wife, Sandra, and a handful of Alliance officials, were kidnapped by the mysterious League of Tripoli. They were turned over to become prisoners of the arch enemy, Japanese General Kurokawa, who has allied with the enemy Grik.

Reddy is sure they are facing a major battle with the Grik. But first Reddy feels he must face Kurokawa who has been given the massive League battleship, the Savoie, Reddy fears the threat posed by that ship in the hands of Kurokawa. Reddy will make a move even though it means putting his own wife in danger.

Brash and bold Silva thinks he has a way to sneak into Kurokawa’s camp to spy the land and locate the prisoners. Meanwhile, Commander Greg Garrett on USS Donaghey is far out in the Mid Atlantic but still manages adventures as the ship encounters a stronger Dom ship.

There are exciting air battles (especially an early reconnaissance flight) as well as sea battles. I enjoyed following the various crews, some facing the Grik and others facing the Dominion. I also enjoyed the scenes with the enemy Grik making their plans.

This is another engaging episode in this fast-paced war adventure series. I love the down to earth characters highlighted in their various dangerous settings. Anderson’s creativity is wonderfully woven in the good action. I also like the character’s contemplation of faith elements introduced into the alternate world.

I picked this up and finished the listen within three days. It was hard to put down. I recommend this series to readers who enjoy alternate history and new species.

Audio Notes: William Dufris continues his wonderful narration of this series and these engaging characters. I love listening to the audio version and am eagerly waiting for the next book, River of Bones.

My Reviews for the Destroyermen Series
Into the Storm -- guess I didn't write a review.

Crusade 4.5 

Maelstrom 4.5

Distant Thunders  4.75

Rising Tides 5.0

Firestorm 4.25

Iron Gray Sea  4.25

Storm Surge 4.5

Deadly Shores  4.75
Straits of Hell: Destroyermen, Book 10 5.0
Blood in the Water: Destroyermen, Book 11 4.5

Source: 2017 Audible Credit Purchase. This fits my 2018TBR and Audiobook Challenges.

Audible Book Review: Island by Aldous Huxley

UGH - This one was not for me.
Island
By: Aldous Huxley
Narrated by: Simon Vance

Length: 11 hrs and 27 mins
Unabridged
Release date: 09-13-16
Language: English
Publisher: Tantor Audio
Genre: Classic, Vintage Sci Fi
My Rating: 2.0 of 5.0
Narrator Rating: 4.0

Publisher's Summary
In his final novel - which he considered his most important - Aldous Huxley transports us to the remote Pacific island of Pala, where an ideal society has flourished for 120 years.
Inevitably, this island of bliss attracts the envy and enmity of the surrounding world. A conspiracy is underway to take over Pala, and events are set in motion when an agent of the conspirators, a newspaperman named Faranby, is shipwrecked there. What Faranby doesn't expect is how his time with the people of Pala will revolutionize all his values and - to his amazement - give him hope.
©1962 Aldous Huxley (P)2016 Tantor

Review:
Will Faranby is a journalist who awakens on the shores of Pala, a remote Pacific island. He is found and cared for by native people. As he recovers he learns of the peaceful nature of the people from a young widow and the doctor who treats him.

Faranby also meets the 17-year-old prince and his worldly, controlling mother. The prince will be crowned ruler when he reaches 18. Faranby recognizes the boy who he met recently with a military official on a nearby island. It seems the boy and his mother are making plans with the dictatorial Colonel to bring social and economic modernism to Pala. Faranby spends a short time with the prince who explains his goals and reasonings.

Faranby then gets an explanation regarding the benefits of “yoga love” and Moksha meditation from the widow and the doctor takes Faranby on a tour of Pala. He is shown the schools, which include dance that helps stamp out anger, and art that helps to open creativity. He is also shown the research facilities which involve artificial insemination for genealogical selection.

These elements could have been interesting except they are presented by monologue lectures which advance a platform of Buddhist training, practices, beliefs and precepts often compared to Faranby’s wicked nature and inadequate Calvin principles. Huxley also presents a few brief ‘discussions’ of politics (communism versus capitalism) and there was a morality lecture including adaptations of Aesop’s Fables and principles of ecology and conservation. 80% of the book is lecture although some brief periods of dialogue included Faranby’s irreverent, ironic, quotes of scripture and even some recited poetry.

I found three items I liked: the beginning “attention” and “here and now boys” screeches of the mynah; the description of a landscape painting in the meditation room; and the description of “chewing grace” where, with first bite, they focus attention to the food, tastes and textures. The last hour consisted of a description of a drug induced experience – first with joy and beauty then with fear and ugliness.

I struggled through the first half hoping to get to some plot. Then, having committed six hours already, I forced myself to finish. If I wanted a lecture on Buddhism I could take a class. That is not what I want in a fiction book. The overall experience: UGH!

Audio Notes: Thank goodness for Simon Vance! I always like his voice so it was really the saving grace of pushing through this listen. He gives the characters suitable accents and manages not to drift off during the lectures.

Source: Audible Daily Deal 2018 Purchase for Vintage Sci Fi. This qualifies for 2018 Audiobook and Alphabet Challenges.

Audio Book Review: Mission Impawsible by Krista Davis

This is a perfectly lovely cozy mystery.
Mission Impawsible: Paws & Claws Mystery Series, Book 4
Written by: Krista Davis
Narrated by: Elise Arsenault

Length: 8 hrs and 43 mins
Series: Paws & Claws, Book 4
Unabridged Audiobook
Release Date:02-07-17
Publisher: Tantor Audio
Genre: Cozy Mystery
My Rating: 4.25 of 5.0

Publisher's Summary
Holly Miller and her grandmother, Oma, are working their tails off to prepare the Sugar Maple Inn for an upcoming matchmaking event for pet owners. While Holly has no interest in pairing up, Oma plans on playing Cupid and finding someone to warm her reluctant granddaughter's heart. Unfortunately, one man Holly does meet is cold - dead cold - and he has a personal letter from Oma in his pocket. As suspicion is cast over the inn's guests, Holly - with the help of her furry friends, Trixie the Jack Russell and Twinkletoes the cat - must fetch the real killer, or she may soon have a date in court.
©2017 Cristina Ryplansky (P)2017 Tantor

Review:
This is a very easy and enjoyable listen. I really enjoyed the involvement and mischief of the pets. The human characters have some quirky traits that add interest and a little intrigue. This is the fourth story in the series but reads fine as a standalone.

Holly is helping run her grandmother’s inn, the Sugar Maple Inn set in Wagtail, Virginia. Wagtail is aptly named as they love their four-legged friends. The Inn is hosting a special week-end Animal Attraction Matchmaking event for pet owners. The rather eccentric matchmaker, Macon, is convinced that animals often pull people together. Holly isn’t interested in being matched but her grandmother, Oma, has filled out a form for Holly so she gets pulled into the matchmaking. Holly’s dog, Trixie, makes fast friends with Cooper and his owner, John. John shows interest in Holly until they stumble on a dead body.

Holly is helping her friend, Zelda, to sneak out without her stalking ex, Hank, seeing her but someone sees Holly sneaking around the house. This is not good when the next morning Holly finds Hank’s bashed body under the trees.

Initially Zelda is a suspect but then circumstantial evidence shifts to point to Holly. Holly has worked with the local Detective, Officer Dave and she is a bit put out that she is a suspect and he won’t share any information with her. Still it seems that Holly’s efforts to investigate get her deeper into trouble.

There are various suspects floating around the Inn. Nessie and Sky are two late arrivals who are attending to keep track of their daughters who are participating in the event. It turns out that one of the ladies is the sister in law to the first dead man, a psychologist, Dr. Randall Donovan. Donavan had been rather unpleasant when checking in and had bad-mouthed Macon as a charlatan matchmaker. There is also cause for the local pharmacist to dislike Donovan.

As if Holly isn’t busy enough, her own ex-boyfriend, Ben, who is not a big fan of pets, has shown up with a borrowed adoption dog, Huey, a sweet and lovable dog, to participate in the matchmaking. It seems Ben may be leaving the door open as a gathering of dogs and cats are breaking into the pantry.

This is great fun following the antics of the animals while trying to figure out who the killer is and what the motives are. I recommend this to readers who enjoy cozy mysteries and animals as part of the story.

Audio Notes: Elise Arsenault is a new narrator for me. She does a nice job with the characters, conveying the fun of the story. The narration made this a quick, easy experience for me.

I received this from the publisher through Audiobook Jukebox. It qualifies for Audiobook Challenge.

Audio Book Review: Keystone by Dannika Dark

This is engaging fantasy with interesting characters and good action.
Keystone: Crossbreed Series, Book 1
Written by: Dannika Dark
Narrated by: Nicole Poole

Length: 10 hrs and 18 mins
Unabridged Audiobook
Release Date:01-31-17
Publisher: Tantor Audio
Genre: Paranormal, Urban Fantasy
My Rating: 4.25 of 5.0

Publisher's Summary
When the road forks, how do you know which path is the right one? Raven Black hunts evildoers for fun, but her vigilante justice isn't the only reason she's hiding from the law. Half vampire, half mage, she's spent years living as a rogue to stay alive. When a Russian shifter offers her a job in his covert organization hunting outlaws, dignity and a respectable career are finally within her grasp. The catch? Her new partner is Christian Poe - a smug, handsome vampire whom she'd rather stake than go on a stakeout with. They're hot on the trail of a human killer who will stop at nothing to get what he wants. One misstep during her probationary period could jeopardize Raven's chance at redemption, and her partner would love nothing more than to see her fail. Dark secrets, unexpected twists, and a blurred line between good and evil will keep you on the edge of your seat. Will Raven find the courage to succeed, or will she give in to her dark nature?
©2017 Dannika Dark (P)2017 Tantor

Review:
Raven is a rouge who doesn’t have a ‘clan’ that fits. She is a very rare mix – half vampire and half mage. She has to keep her nature secret or the mage powers might well choose to destroy her. Since she is unregistered she has no breed standing and it unable to get a legitimate job. As she struggles to survive, sheltering in the streets and on rooftops and scavenging food, she sees evil in the streets and she doesn’t like it. She has been killing the evildoers who feed and hurt innocents. They have become her prey. But her lifestyle is far from safe. Not only is she malnourished, she is in danger from the bigger, stronger hunters. So far she has been lucky but that won’t last forever, especially now that she has caught the eye of a corrupt mage.

Another group has been watching Raven too. A group known as Keystone who are a group of gifted misfits led by a cautious Russian Shifter, Viktor. Viktor gives loners a chance but insists on loyalty and following rules. The Keystone group takes jobs investigating criminal activity and taking down the evildoers on occasion when it is necessary. Raven really needs the training and support she can gain from working with Keystone, not to mention steady food and housing. But her loner habits make it hard for her to toe the line.

Raven is partnered with a haughty, Irish vampire, Christian. Raven hates her vampire nature and views vampires as evil. Christian doesn’t trust an impetuous rogue scavenger who doesn’t know how to back up her teammates. The two rub each other the wrong way, probably because they are fighting the underlying attraction.

Other members of the group have unique skills and personalities and I enjoyed how the author introduced each and revealed their gifts through the action and interplay. I especially liked the blind martial art sensei, Nicco, who is a master with knives.

The plot includes Raven’s predicament and the corrupt mage trying to rebuild his holdings. The action is nicely interspersed with the learning steps that Raven is struggling through. This results in steady pacing and good balance. This is the first book I have read by Ms. Dark but I am sure to read more. I recommend this to those who like a urban fantasy.

Audio Notes: Nicole Poole is a new narrator to me and she does a good job with the narration. She gives each character, male and female, their own personality and fitting emotions. I was glad to listen to this and recommend it in audio for those who enjoy a good listen.

I received this audio from the publisher through Audiobook Jukebox. It qualifies for my 2017 Audio Book Challenge.

Audio Book Review: All Our Yesterdays by Cristin Terril

This is an engaging and fascinating time paradox tale.

All Our Yesterdays
by Cristin Terril
Narrated by Meredith Mitchell

Length: 9 hrs and 25 mins 
Unabridged Audiobook
Release Date:03-18-14
Publisher: Tantor Audio
Genre: Listed as Suspense but could be considered Sci FI
My Rating 4.0 of 5.0

Book Description
Publication Date: September 3, 2013
| Age Level: 12 - 18 | Grade Level: 7 - 12
"You have to kill him." 
Imprisoned in the heart of a secret military base, Em has nothing except the voice of the boy in the cell next door and the list of instructions she finds taped inside the drain. Only Em can complete the final instruction. She's tried everything to prevent the creation of a time machine that will tear the world apart. She holds the proof: a list she has never seen before, written in her own hand. Each failed attempt in the past has led her to the same terrible present—imprisoned and tortured by a sadistic man called the doctor while war rages outside. Marina has loved her best friend James since the day he moved next door when they were children. A gorgeous, introverted science prodigy from one of America's most famous families, James finally seems to be seeing Marina in a new way, too. But on one disastrous night, James's life crumbles apart, and with it, Marina's hopes for their future. Now someone is trying to kill him. Marina will protect James, no matter what. Even if it means opening her eyes to a truth so terrible that she may not survive it. At least not as the girl she once was. All Our Yesterdays is a wrenching, brilliantly plotted story of fierce love, unthinkable sacrifice, and the infinite implications of our every choice.

Review:
Marina is a young teen who loves the wealthy, genius boy next door, James. As a prodigy James has few friends. Marina has always stuck with him even as he struggled through his growing phases and through the death of his parents. He also has a best friend, Finn, who has hung with him at their private school. James has been raised by his older brother who is a U.S. Senator being prepared as a possible future president. James goal is to help the world be a better place.

James was mocked by many classmates as a social misfit far above his years in brilliance. As he matures he finally grows into his body and all the girls are after him even though they are still in high school and he has moved onto college levels and private mentoring. Marina has loved James for so long she can’t imagine not being with him. She puts up with Finn because he is James friend and she will do whatever it takes to support James. She is excited when it appears that James is finally seeing her as more than the “kid-sister’ neighbor girl except the night ends in tragedy.

In the future, Em and Finn are adjacent cells n a military prison where they resist against ‘the Doctor’ and ‘the Director’. They are subjected to repeated deprivations and tortures because they refuse to give up Em's hiding place for highly important scientific notes regarding a time machine. The creation of the machine has created a totalitarian government with restricted freedoms resulting in rebellion.

Em uncovers a cryptic message that says “You have to kill him”. Apparently she has gone back in time before as this is the fourteenth message on the paper with all the other alternatives having been crossed off. Em and Finn escape with help from a surprising source. Now they must plan how and when to end the nightmare that they have lived for the past four years. And Em has to determine if she can kill to protect those she loves the most.

This is a very engaging and fascinating time paradox tale. The author changes time and viewpoints from Em in the future/present and Marina in the past. This makes for a very interesting blend and kept me engaged as I learned the characters and their histories. The time travel created opportunities to ponder the consequences and options. There were a few details that some might say violate the paradox rules of time travel. But since it is fiction the author gets to make the rules, right? There were times when I didn’t like Marina’s insecure and clingy character (not to mention teenage angst) and I was glad she matured into a stronger person. I suspected the twist before it was revealed but I still thought it was really well plotted. I recommend this to readers who like the twists created by time travel dilemmas.

Audio Notes: Meredith Mitchell did a good job with the narration. The characters were distinguishable and the emotions, danger and intensity are carried through the narration. I enjoyed the story through the audio presentation.

I received this title through Audio Sync 2014. It was paired with the classic JULIUS CAESAR by William Shakespeare, which I may have to listen to just to clarify the pairing. This qualifies for Audio Challenge, TBR Double Dare and TBR.

Audible Book Review: Maelstrom:Destroyermen, Book 3 by Taylor Anderson

This is the third installment in this fascinating adventure series.
Maelstrom: Destroyermen, Book 3
     by Taylor Anderson
    Narrated by William Dufris

    UNABRIDGED
          Series: Destroyermen, Book 3
    LENGTH      17 hrs and 45 mins
    RELEASE DATE      03-25-09
    PUBLISHER      Tantor Audio
Genre: Science Fiction, Fantasy, Adventure
My Rating: 4.5 of 5.0

Publisher's Summary
Lieutenant Commander Matthew Reddy, along with the men and women of the U.S.S. Walker, are once again at war. Having sided with the peaceful Lemurians against the savage, reptilian Grik, they now find themselves scrambling to prepare for the attack that is sure to come, searching for resources to support their forces - even as they look for allies to join their struggle.
Meanwhile, the Japanese juggernaut Amagi, also trapped in this strange world, is under Grik control---with her fanatical commander approaching madness. And soon they will have amassed a force that no amount of firepower and technology will be able to stop.As the raging conflict approaches, Reddy, his crew, his allies, and his loved ones face annihilation. But if there is one thing they have learned about their new world, it is that hope - and help - may be just over the horizon.
©2008 Taylor Anderson; (P)2009 Tantor

Review:
Don’t let the slow start in this episode dissuade you - it just builds a basis for getting to know the characters and made me feel like part of the crew!

Two American destroyer ships, the USS Walker and Mahan, and a Japanese battle cruiser, the Amagi, were caught up in a storm and found themselves in an alternate version of the South Seas. Here the Americans have met a peaceful population of creatures resembling a mix of Lemure and a cat, called Lemurians and sometimes referred to as “Cats.”

For many years the Lemurians lived peaceably in the trees or large Tree ships. Now they are being pursued by a terrible race, the lizard-like Grik. The Grik do not just kill their enemies; they consume them. The Japanese warship Amagi and its power crazed commander having allied with the Grik to seek destruction against the Americans and the Lemurians.

The first half of this book fills in the backgrounds of the characters and events to bring a new reader up to date. There is a lot of behind the scenes details, building characters, setting the locations, revealing society positioning and strategy for the upcoming battles. Though it’s not exciting, still I found it very interesting. I liked even the geographical descriptions as a comparison between the alternate world and the world that the Americans came from. This story also introduces a few new characters, including some pre-American Revolution British officers who choose to remain outside of the alliance.

I had already like Captain Matthew Reddy and many of the crew members from the prior books. By the time the battle begins in the second half of this book I felt like I knew the American crew personally. When this book jumps into the battle action there is excitement, fear, horror, loss and sorrow. A couple times I actually found myself holding my hands over my face as I dealt with the emotions during the battle.

Audio Notes: William Dufris does a grand job of narrating that captures the nuances of the characters– good guys and bad guys– and the excitement of the battle. I get wrapped into the narration which to me signifies both a good story and a delivery that keeps the reader focused on the characters and action with no negative distractions from the reading.

I will be listening to Book 4 soon!  I recommend this series to those who enjoy adventure with alternate world, alternate species and some heavy battle action.

This is from my own Audible library.