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 with Print Giveaway: The Last Colony, Old Man's War, Book 3 by John Scalzi

I really enjoy the snark and action in this series.
The Last Colony, Old Man's War, Book 3
by John Scalzi
Narrated by: William Dufris

Series: Old Man's War, Book 3
Length: 9 hrs and 51 mins
Unabridged Audiobook
Release date: 10-13-08
Language: English
Publisher: Macmillan Audio
Genre: Colonization, Genetic Engineering, Sci Fi
My rating: 4.5 of 5.0

Publisher's Summary
Retired from his fighting days, John Perry is now village ombudsman for a human colony on distant Huckleberry. With his wife, former Special Forces warrior Jane Sagan, he farms several acres, adjudicates local disputes, and enjoys watching his adopted daughter grow up.
That is, until his and Jane's past reaches out to bring them back into the game - as leaders of a new human colony, to be peopled by settlers from all the major human worlds, for a deep political purpose that will put Perry and Sagan back in the thick of interstellar politics, betrayal, and war.
Listen to Old Man's War .
©2007 John Scalzi (P)2008 Macmillan Audio

Review:
John Perry, his wife, Jane, and their adopted teenage daughter, Zoe, with her unique alien guards, Hickory and Dickory, are living quietly as farmers on a distant human colony planet. John is the local authority and has to deal with community issues including disputes over goat propagation between feuding brother.

Then a General from their CU (Colonial Union) past calls them to lead a group of colonists on a planet named Roanoke. The colony is to bring together races from many human peoples who are seeking new colonies. The races all wanted to be the only colonists, but the CU authorities decided there had to be a gathering. These means there are already hostilities and jealousies and not all the colonists are happy to have John and Jane take leadership.

When the ship takes its final time slip to reach its destination, they discover they are not at the planet they expected. The colonists learn that they are a target for attack by another galactic group, the Conclave, who issued a decree banning any new colonies that did not get permission from them. One of the groups of colonists are Mennonites who do not use modern technologies. There was a larger amount of old fashion tools in the supplies for a reason. The colony has to learn to build and farm using minimal technology so they won’t be detected by the Conclave.

The colony is actually being used as bait as the CU has set them up to draw out the Conclave. John and the new colonists are shocked at the betrayal but now they have to figure out how to avoid destruction by the Conclave. They also have to determine who is they can trust.

I enjoyed the snarky rapport that John has with other characters. It makes the story fun listening. Zoe is beginning to appear as a more important character and I enjoyed the nature of her guards. John is able to use their devotion to help protect not just Zoe but the other colonists too. There are tensions and battle scenes with good action that are well balance with the intrigue and personal stories.

This is the third book in the series and I am still enjoying the creative world and characters. I recommend this to readers who enjoy solid space opera with a good touch of humor.

Audio Notes: I enjoy the narration of William Dufris. He brings in the personalities of the characters with distinct voices. His narration makes the story more enjoyable for me.

Source: December 2017 Audible Credit. This qualifies for 2018TBR and Audiobook Challenge.

GIVEAWAY:

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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 Review: Blood in the Water: Destroyermen Series, Book 11, by Taylor Anderson

I really enjoy this Alternate History Series with its strong character, lots of action and adventure.
Blood in the Water: Destroyermen Series
Book 11
Written by: Taylor Anderson
Narrated by: William Dufris

Length: 17 hrs and 15 mins
Series: Destroyermen, Book 11
Unabridged Audiobook
Release Date:06-07-16
Publisher: Tantor Audio
Genre: Alternate History, Sci Fi
My Rating: 4.5 of 5.0

Publisher's Summary
Ever since the USS Walker came from another world war to defy the terrifying Grik and diabolical Dominion, Matt Reddy and his crew have given their all to protect the oppressed Lemurians. But with the Walker in desperate need of repairs just as the Grik's first general is poised to strike, Reddy is desperate.
With more enemies than ever before arrayed against them, the crew of the Walker needs new allies. That means combing the lethal wilds of Madagascar to find the Lemurians' fabled ancestors as well as the enigmatic dwellers east of the Pass of Fire. But what Reddy's crew unearths may be more than they can handle - discoveries so shattering that they could tilt the balance of the war in either direction.
But Reddy's greatest adversary is from his past: a madman named Kurokawa whose single-minded mission of revenge will shake the Alliance to its core and raise the stakes to the most personal and terrifying levels Reddy has ever faced.
©2016 Taylor Anderson (P)2016 Tantor

Review:
This is book 11 of this engaging alternate history series. The story follows the adventures, and continued battles, of WWII destroyer, the USS Walker, and its enemy, the Japanese battlecruiser Amagi. Both ships were pulled by a storm into a different Pacific Ocean. In this alternate Earth, the continents are populated by giant lemur-like beings known as Lemurians, and their brutal, cannibalistic enemy, the lizard (or dinosaur)-like Grik.

The Americans, led by Captain Reddy, have trained the peaceful Lemurians so they can defend themselves against the Grik. The Lemurians are now busy building new ships, planes and weapons for the upcoming battles.

During the battles and explorations of their new surroundings, they have discovered that various ships from other countries and years of our history have been pulled into this alternate world. There are British, Spanish, German, French and more.

At this point Captain Reddy and the Alliance are spread out on numerous fronts. There is a group pursuing the wicked Dominions, while other groups are out seeking aid from ancient Lemurian tribes. Some ships are moving into position for the next battle and one ship has been sent out to explore beyond the explored lands. A new player has entered the local field, a coalition known as the League of Tripoli. The Alliance members don’t know if the League are friend or foe, but their actions in this episode will set them at odds with Captain Reddy.

The previously barbaric and drone-like armies of the Grik have begun to change and learn with the help of the Japanese and from the battles they have been engaged in. This is creating dangers for the Alliance but also creating interesting tension within the Grik forces. Meanwhile, the mad Japanese commander, Kurokawa, has a ship to replace the Amagi, and he is making his own plans for revenge.

The story follows at least seven threads of characters. There are battle scenes but also there are scenes of preparation, exploration and confrontation. I was glued to my earplugs to learn what would happen with each team. I enjoy the character interactions and am finding the growth of the Griks, especially General Halick, interesting. Once again I am impressed with Mr. Anderson’s wonderful imagination. I am glad I already have book 12 in my Audible library. I highly recommend the series, and the audios, to readers who enjoy alternate history and battle stories with well-developed characters.

Audio Notes: William Dufris does his usual great job of narration. He manages all the numerous character voices, accents and nuances, so the story becomes alive. I love listening to this series on audio.

Check out the artwork, plane models, maps and ship silhouettes at the author's new Website. (The website was down when I checked but hopefully will be back soon.)

Also check out my prior reviews:

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

If you like the reviews, please follow this link to Audible and click the yes button on the “was this review helpful”.

I had this title in my own Audible library (credit purchase in 2016). It qualifies for Audio Challenge and Mount TBR Challenge.

Audible Book Review: The Ghost Brigades by John Scalzi

I enjoyed the plot and the narration on this sci fi.

The Ghost Brigades
Written by: John Scalzi
Narrated by: William Dufris

Length: 10 hrs and 28 mins
Series: Old Man's War, Book 2
Unabridged Audiobook
Release Date:03-11-08
Publisher: Macmillan Audio
Genre: Sci Fi
My Rating: 4.25 of 5.0

The Ghost Brigades are the Special Forces of the Colonial Defense Forces, elite troops created from the DNA of the dead and turned into the perfect soldiers for the CDF's toughest operations. They're young, they're fast and strong, and they're totally without normal human qualms.
For the universe is a dangerous place for humanity - and it's about to become far more dangerous. Three races that humans have clashed with before have allied to halt our expansion into space. Their linchpin: the turncoat military scientist Charles Boutin, who knows the CDF's biggest military secrets. To prevail, the CDF most find out why Boutin did what he did.
Jared Dirac is the only human who can provide answers - a superhuman hybrid, created from Boutin's DNA, whose brain is uniquely able to access Boutin's electronic memories. But when the memory transplant appears to fail, Jared is given over to the Ghost Brigades.
Jared begins as one of these perfect soldiers, but as memories begin to surface, he begins to intuit the reason's for Boutin's betrayal.
As Jared desperately hunts for his "father", he must also come to grips with his own choices. Time is running out: the alliance is preparing its offensive, and some of them plan worse things than humanity's mere military defeat.
©2006 John Scalzi; (P)2008 Macmillan Audio

Review:
Jared Dirac is like all Colonial Defense Forces (CDF) soldiers – created for the sole purpose of protecting humans. The CDF are advanced special forces created using the DNA of dead humans. They are trained to do the most dangerous missions. Their humanoid bodies are enhanced with special computerized and integrated brain pals that help them process faster and connect each member of the team to the others.

But Jared has something special – he has the cloned brain of Charles Boutin. Boutin was the military scientific genius who perfected the genetic engineering for the integrated brain pal system. He is believed to be dead until Lt. Jane Sagan of the Ghost Brigades discovers that he faked his death and is working with two alien worlds to begin a war against the CDF with plans that would wipe out the human race.

Jared was created using the rogue scientist’s cloned brain in hopes that he could lead the CDF to the traitor, or at least reveal the motive or intentions of Boutin. Jared does not exhibit any knowledge of Boutin when he first awakens. Still Sagan doesn’t trust him and doesn’t want him on her elite team. But a former enemy, now turned friend (sort of) reminds her that sometimes it is best to keep your enemies close.

Jared successfully works with the team for months through several dangerous missions until a trigger sends his mind into a flash back of his daughter. What? His daughter? He never had a daughter. Slowly Jared begins to recall some memories of Boutin. The strongest of those memories include the love for his young daughter and the hate for his commanding officer. Jared needs to determine where the hate comes from and where that anger has led Boutin.

Jared finally comes face to face with Boutin who plans to use Jared as part of his revenge. Some consider the CDF soldiers to be slaves to their creators. They have few opportunities to make real choices. Now Jared is torn between two mind streams – the protective directive of his programming as Jared Darek and the vengeful goals of his DNA based brain. Will he have a choice when matters come to a head?

Initially I was disappointed that this second book did not include John Perry, the protagonist of the first book, Old Man’s War (OMW). I was glad to find Jane Sagan as a returning character. She and the Ghost Brigades connected to the two stories. I came to really like Jared and the author manages to give him strong emotions that are not common to all CDF soldiers. I was rooting for him to realize his uniqueness rather than get swallowed by Boutin’s personality. I enjoyed the twist at the resolution of the threat and look forward to more adventures in the world of OMW. I recommend this series to those who like human characters in their sci fi action stories. Although this could be read as a standalone I liked knowing the background from the OMW.

Audio Notes: William Dufris is a wonderful narrator. He makes the characters come alive, each with their own voice and personality. I really enjoy this series on audio and plan to listen to more.

This title is from my TBR shelf. It qualifies for my 2017 Audio Book Challenge, Mount TBR and "G" on Alphabet Soup Challenge.

Audible Book Review: Old Man's War by John Scalzi

This is a captivating, action-packed space story with a great narrator.

Old Man's War
Written by: John Scalzi
Narrated by: William Dufris

Length: 9 hrs and 58 mins
Series: Old Man's War, Book 1
Unabridged Audiobook
Release Date:10-08-07
Publisher: Macmillan Audio
Genre: Sci Fi
My Rating: 4.5 0f 5.0

Publisher's Summary
John Perry did two things on his 75th birthday. First, he visited his wife's grave. Then he joined the army.
The good news is that humanity finally made it into interstellar space. The bad news is that planets fit to live on are scarce - and alien races willing to fight us for them are common. So, we fight, to defend Earth and to stake our own claim to planetary real estate. Far from Earth, the war has been going on for decades: brutal, bloody, unyielding.
Earth itself is a backwater. The bulk of humanity's resources are in the hands of the Colonial Defense Force. Everybody knows that when you reach retirement age, you can join the CDF. They don't want young people; they want people who carry the knowledge and skills of decades of living. You'll be taken off Earth and never allowed to return. You'll serve two years at the front. And if you survive, you'll be given a generous homestead stake of your own, on one of our hard-won colony planets.
John Perry is taking that deal. He has only the vaguest idea of what to expect. Because the actual fight, light-years from home, is far, far harder than he can imagine. And what he will become is far stranger.
©2005 John Scalzi (P)2007 Audio Renaissance, a division of Holtzbrinck Publishers LLC

Review:
John Perry is a 75-year-old man on earth who lived a good life married to a lovely woman who died a few years back from a sudden stroke. In John’s world all humans register for government service at age 65 when they are given ten years to decide if they will continue to grow old on earth or enlist for a minimum two years of space service. All the humans know is that if they join the Colonial Defense Force (CDF) they will get a body upgrade but they will never get to return to earth. No one actually knows what happens as they have never seen any human who has joined the CDF.

The work of the CDF is to protect the human colonies all over space. Many species are fighting over the valuable asset of livable planet surface. The same environment is not suitable for all, but for those who share the same needs as humans, the competition is fierce. The new recruits are physically enhanced so they can have a fighting chance. Suddenly the 75 year olds have become 25 year olds with super strength.

John is one of many recruits who face their basic training drill sergeant who is the first, loudest and roughest to tell them this is nothing like earth service. Here in the CDF most recruits are dispensable bodies who will not make it through their two years and it is his job to push them beyond what they think they can endure.

John gathers a handful of friends who form a bond through training. Two females and five men who each contribute a special skill that make them a good team. John has a knack for seeing alternate approaches and solutions. This helps his team succeed in a training mission that gets him recognized by his superiors. The “gang” is assigned to different ships for duty but they design a way to stay in touch. On his first real mission John again discovers a pattern that saves his squad and the battle.

John continues to fight and be an asset to his teams. Then he meets the Ghost Squad – a special forces unit that is only rumored to exist. Among their ranks is a woman, Jane, who could be a double for his dead wife in looks although she doesn't possess the same human qualities. Although regular recruits are not to have contact with the Ghost Squad, John ends up being pulled into a special mission with that team.

I found John a wonderful, strong, warm character and his friends add depth and interest. The concept is fascinating with plenty of futuristic, creative technology and imaginative alien species. I was totally engaged with the story and John’s adventures and then enjoyed the addition of Jane and their slow growing relationship. John questions why there is no effort to negotiate instead of engaging in battle and the author’s discussion and examples were interesting.

There is some bad language which I passed over as much as possible. I really loved the action, the light humor and the character development. I found this hard to put down. I will want to listen to more in the series.

Audio Notes: William Dufris does a great job with this narration. I was soon pulled into John’s world and appreciated Dufris skillful presentation of the story from his view and with unique voices for other characters as John interacts with them. I am always glad to listen to Dufris narrate and he added to my enjoyment of this story.

I pulled this from my Audible Library for a TBR (2013) and it qualifies for "O” on Alphabet Soup Challenge.

Audible Book Review: Straits of Hell: Destroyermen, Book 10

I LOVE this series!
Destroyermen: Straits of Hell: Destroyermen, Book 10
Written by: Taylor Anderson
Narrated by: William Dufris

Length: 17 hrs and 34 mins
Series: Destroyermen, Book 10
Unabridged Audiobook
Release Date:05-05-15
Publisher: Tantor Audio
Genre: Sci Fi, Alternate History
My Rating: 5.0 of 5.0

Publisher's Summary
Matt Reddy's old Asiatic Fleet destroyer USS Walker has been mysteriously transported to an alternate version of earth. Here, WWII is no longer raging, and Reddy and his crew have been trying to find a new place for themselves in this strange new world.
Now, along with the felinoid Lemurians and Imperial allies, they fight to keep the reptilian Grik, a race growing in supremacy, from reconquering the Lemurians' ancestral home on Madagascar. Reddy and his crew are exhausted, far from reinforcements, and wildly outnumbered. As for the fate of the Americas, Don Hernan and the evil Dominion have gathered to annihilate the forces behind the walls of Fort Defiance as a shadowy power with an agenda all its own rises with chilling resolve.
As the war teeters on a knife-edge, a tipping point may have been reached at last - and cold steel and hot-blooded valor will remain the ultimate weapons.
©2015 Taylor Anderson (P)2015 Tantor

Review:
I was excited to start the latest in this series. Captain Matt Reddy is leading the Alliance, consisting of Americans, Lemurians and Imperial British, in the strange alternate world where he and his Destroyerman battleship, Walker, have ended up. The allies are facing fights on several fronts. They have captured Grik City and have every expectation that the Griks will be back in swarms to try to recapture their “Celestial Home”. Some of the Grik leaders are craftier than when Matt first faced that enemy and they present more of a challenge.

On another front, Don Hernan and the awful bloody monks of the Dominion are trying to retake Fort Defiance. Commander Sinji has set up the defense in preparation of this expected attack, but now the human troops have been weakened by mosquito borne illness. Sinji will have to use brutal strategy and hope for reinforcements to prevail.

Meanwhile a new force has approached Japanese ‘General’ Kurokawa seeking his aid. The madman general had formerly aligned with the Grik but is planning his own revolution so that he can become ‘supreme emperor’ of this strange world.

I love the action and the connections between characters. Even the evil leaders, and their different level of troops, are portrayed with character growths. There is a good bit of military weaponry and multiple battles. Although I may not understand all of the technicalities I still like the strategy and the intensity of the action. I appreciate Mr. Anderson’s wonderful imagination and how he adds in new elements to set up storylines for the next installment. I will be anticipating the next book! I'm glad I only have to wait until June.

Audio Notes: William Dufris does a wonderful job on these narrations. He has multiple voices for the different characters, with some new Scottish brogue and Italian accents added in this installment.

Check out the artwork, plane models, maps and ship silhouettes at the author's new Website.

Also check out my prior reviews:

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

If you like the reviews, please follow this link to Audible and click the yes button on the “was this review helpful”.

I had this title in my own Audible library (credit purchase in 2015). It qualifies for Audio Challenge, S on Alphabet Soup Challenge, TBR Triple Dog Dare and March 2016 TBR Challenge.

Audible Review: Deadly Shores: Destroyermen, Book 9 by Taylor Anderson

I give top credits for hours of entertainment in the latest installment to this great series.
Deadly Shores: Destroyermen, Book 9
Written by: Taylor Anderson
Narrated by: William Dufris

• Length: 16 hrs and 52 mins 
• • Series: Destroyermen, Book 9
• Format: Unabridged


Release Date:05-06-14
Publisher: Tantor Audio

Genre: Sci Fi
My Rating: 4.75 of 5.0

Publisher's Summary
The long-planned raid on the heart of the Grik Empire has grown more ambitious - and dangerously ill-defined. Only Matthew Reddy, commander of the old destroyer USS Walker, seems focused on its original intent.
Many Lemurians see an opportunity to reconquer their sacred homeland, which was stolen long ago, and have no intention of simply striking a blow and then pulling back. Others, Lemurian and human, have their own agendas - which may not be in the best interests of the Alliance. Complicating matters further is Reddy's suspicion that his task force is being stalked by an unknown power bent on aiding the Grik for reasons of its own.
As the raid begins and chaos reigns, Reddy has no choice but to go all in, risking everything in a desperate act that results in a sprawling, nightmarish battle on the beaches of "Grik City", on the very decks of Walker, and in the labyrinthine passageways of the Celestial Palace itself.
The final cost could be more than Matt Reddy - or the Alliance - can bear.
©2013 Taylor Anderson (P)2014 Tantor

Review:
The first portion of this book gives history and character re-cap to familiarize those who don’t know the series or to refresh others. There are personal snippets to bring some of the major characters to the forefront. Then the battle action begins in force, even as some of the strategy gets lost to zealous, mixed motives.

The battles of Captain Reddy and the Grand Alliance continue on three fields in thes latest installment of this wonderful alternate world series. General Pete Alden faces off with the Grik General Halick, in India. The two military leaders are beginning to respect each other as they realize they can continue to fight to decimate each others’ armies or they can step apart and regroup for another day.

British High Admiral Jenks is leading the Imperial troops, with Orrin Reddy’s “Nancys” airteam, in the eastern front battle against the Dominion. Although they are positioning themselves well in Guayak, New Granada Province, they have no real idea of the Dominion forces that are grouping in the Atlantic.

Meanwhile Captain Reddy, his naval forces and many of the Lemurian leaders and troops begin their raid against the Grik on their own home front in Madagascar. Unfortunately, not all the leaders had the same acknowledged goals and the raid turns into a full on assault. The indomitable Dennis Silva takes a small band to sneak into the Grik fortress to capture the Celestial Mother. Several characters who have become endeared are killed or injured in this reckless and costly mission.

I totally enjoyed the plot lines, the imagination and progress of the story. The Doms are still a massive threat and The Japanese enemy, Captain Hisashi Kurokawa, is rebuilding after his defeat at the battle at Madras (Storm Surge). Allies are shifting as Kurokawa is set to betray the Grik allies he made when first he came to this world. As this book closes a new enemy emerges in the form of Italian fascists. I look forward to learning what new adventures and dangers the characters will face in the next book.

Audio Notes: I truly enjoy the narration by William Dufris. He brings the characters alive and helps me get emerged into the world of the Destroyermen. I am glad I have been enjoying this series in audio and I highly recommend it.

I bought this with my Audible subscription so I could continue the adventures.

Audible Book Review: Storm Surge: Destroyermen, Book 8 by Taylor Anderson

This is a continuation of this wonderful alternate world series.
Storm Surge: Destroyermen, Book 8


Written by: Taylor Anderson
Narrated by: William Dufris
Length: 18 hrs and 3 mins
Series: Destroyermen, Book 8
Format: Unabridged
Release Date:07-02-13
Publisher: Tantor Audio

Genre: Alternate Universe, Action, Sci Fi
My Rating: 4.5 of 5.0

Publisher's Summary
In the Pacific, as USS Walker is repaired and updated after a previous battle and Reddy is healing from his wounds, planning begins for a bold raid on the very heart of the Grik Empire.
But time is running out for the Alliance army in India, and the Allied forces in the west must gather in an unprecedented land, air, and sea campaign to destroy the mighty Grik battle fleet and break through to their relief. All other plans go on hold when the attempt proves more difficult - and more heartbreakingly costly - than anyone imagined.
Meanwhile, the struggle continues on other fronts near and far: in the jungles of Borno in distant Southern Africa and in the Americas, where the allies are finally learning the terrible truth about the twisted Dominion.
The Alliance is on the offensive everywhere, but their enemies have a few surprises, including new weaponry and new tactics...and a stunning geographic advantage that Reddy never suspected. Until now.
©2013 Taylor Anderson (P)2013 Tantor.

Review:
Two WWII American destroyermen are transferred to an alternate world where they discover new species. They form an Alliance with the Lemurians, a cat-monkey like race, against the the fierce Grik, a lizard like species who eat their enemies.

In this eighth installment there are numerous battles going on at many locations. General Alden is still pinned down and waiting for relief in Indiaa. Japanese General Niwa has shared tactical strategy with Grik Hige Halik and they are making progress in their battles. But the madman Japanese Commander, Kurokawa, using the Griks as tools, isn’t seeking to help the Grik in their fights. Instead he hopes to lure the American and Alliance into battle at Maa-ni-la where he plans to annihilate them with the new ships.

Reddy and his Allies have been busy building new planes and new ships. Although a few troops are sent on individual missions the majority of the forces are being readied to face Kurolawa and the Grik.

Imperial Commodore Jenks is planning the battles in the East against the Holy Dominion threat. Silva and others are trekking through jungles seeking other species of Grik that may be friendly like Laurence. There are a few new groups that are discovered and agree to get involved including some Jaguar warriors, another species of superlizards being led by an American and unexplained spies. There is also a new group that is making attempts to align with Kurokawa and the Grik.

This series is full of action and good character development. I enjoy the battle strategies and scenes as well as the personal interaction.

Audio Notes: I love listening to this series. Dufris' narration has character distinction and scene excitement. It is effective to help me get wrapped up in and lost in the story.

I am really enjoying the continuing adventures in this series. This book was from my own Audible library.

Audible Book Review: Iron Gray Sea: Destroyermen, Book 7 by Taylor Anderson

I really enjoy the individual characters, society dynamics and battle action of this series.

Iron Gray Sea: Destroyermen, Book 7

    by Taylor Anderson

    Narrated by William Dufris

        Series: Destroyermen, Book 7

LENGTH  16 hrs and 23 mins

RELEASE DATE  07-16-12

PUBLISHER  Tantor Audio

Genre: Alternate History
My Rating: 4.25 of 5.0

Publisher's Summary

In Taylor Anderson's acclaimed Destroyermen series, a parallel universe adds an extraordinary layer to the drama of World War II. Now, Lieutenant Commander Matthew Reddy, the crew of the USS Walker, and their allies battle an ever-growing host of enemies across the globe in a desperate battle for freedom.

War has engulfed the other earth. With every hard-won victory and painful defeat, Matt Reddy and the Allies encounter more friends-and even more diabolical enemies. Even, at last, in the arms of the woman he loves, there is little peace for Reddy. The vast sea, and the scope of the conflict, have trapped him too far away to help on either front, but that doesn't mean he and Walker can rest. Cutting short his "honeymoon," Reddy sails off in pursuit of Hidoiame, a rogue Japanese destroyer that is wreaking havoc in Allied seas. Now that Walker is armed with the latest "new" technology, he hopes his battle-tested four-stacker has an even chance in a straight-up fight against the bigger ship - and he means to take her on.

Elsewhere, the long-awaited invasion of Grik "Indiaa" has begun, and the Human-Lemurian Alliance is pushing back against the twisted might of the Dominion. The diplomatic waters seethe with treachery and a final, terrible plot explodes in the Empire of New Britain Isles. Worse, the savage Grik have also mastered "new" technologies and strategies. Their fleet of monstrous ironclads - and an army two years in the making-are finally massing to strike.

©2012 Taylor Anderson (P)2012 Tantor

Review:
This parallel earth series continues by following up on the displaced WWII Americas and Japanese in their various engagements.

Flint is trapped facing major Grik opposition in Indiaa while General Alden and others under his command try to find a way to get through to help with several different forces that have been trying to push for control of strategic land areas. Meanwhile the Grik, with the aid of the madman Japanese Commander, Kurokawa, are bringing their newly built fleet of ships and air dirigibles to attack their enemies, the Americans and their allies. Kurokawa is not giving full information to the brutal Grik as he meets secretly with other Japanese officers and plans to overthrow the Grik leadership.

The crew from USS Walker are at Respite Island with Emperor Radcliff. Matt (Captain Reddy) is preparing for his wedding to Sandra and a general celebration of the successes so far over the Dominion. The news comes in that another Allied ship has failed to defeat the Japanese POW murderers on their superior ship. Matt makes the difficult decision to take Walker, which already needs repairs, to eliminate that murderous threat once and for all. This creates a confrontation between Sandra and Matt as Sandra has to reconcile his position as extreme commander with her fears for his safety.

Imperial Commodore Jenks takes his ship, Achilles, from North America heading to the Enchanted Islands to secure the safety of those lands in the British battle against the Holy Dominion threat. The Imperial family come under attack and betrayal and treachery are revealed.

There are more personal stories of individual characters busy doing their part to help the battle or rescue other friends. I didn’t find this installment to be quite as exciting as the previous books, but the action picks up mid way and I still enjoyed the informative details of weapon and defense development. All of the action continues to reveal interesting aspects of the societies and continues the warmth of the characters working together through their hardships of war. I have Book 8 available to listen to in the near future.

Audio Notes: I am still impressed by how well Mr. Dufris infuses the personalities into the characters with the voice accents and inflections. This series is really fun listening for me.

This was a selection from my TBR Audible Library. 

Audible Book Review: Firestorm: Destroyermen, Book 6, by Taylor Anderson

Book six continues the action and challenges facing the WWII Americans stranded in an alternate Earth where they battle new enemies.
Firestorm: Destroyermen, Book 6
    UNABRIDGED
    by Taylor Anderson

    Narrated by William Dufris
        Series: Destroyermen, Book 6
    LENGTH    18 hrs and 2 mins
    RELEASE DATE    10-10-11
    PUBLISHER    Tantor Audio
Genre: Alternate History
My Rating: 4.25 of 5.0

Publisher's Summary
Lieutenant Commander Matthew Reddy and the crew of the USS Walker find themselves caught between the nation they swore to defend and the allies they promised to protect. For even as the Allies and the Empire of New Britain Isles stand united against the attacks of both the savage Grik and the tenacious Japanese, the "Holy Dominion" - a warped mixture of human cultures whose lust for power overshadows even the Grik - is threatening to destroy them both with a devastating weapon neither can withstand.
©2010 Taylor Anderson. (P)2011 Tantor

Review:
I continue to enjoy this series, now in book six, which is full of action and human stories. I appreciate how the author tucks in social and political discussions or comments through the actions of the characters. As one example, the proper British Commander, Jenks, now Captain Reddy’s friend and traveling with him, questions attacking the Dominion ships without a warning shot. Captain Reddy points out that he doesn’t think such a step is needed when the enemy has already shown themselves without honor in their surprise attack against civilians at the New British Isles.

As they prepare for battle, one of the commanders comments:
“Plan for the best but prepare for the worst. Every battle is won or lost in the planning; in the mind before the first sword is ever fought.” They had to learn that they could not leave quarter to an enemy that would accept no surrender. “Any we don’t kill today, we will have to kill tomorrow.” There are other interesting comments on war including the theme of ‘killing murderers is not murder, but war with a certain justice in it.’

It is engaging to watch (read/listen) as Mr. Anderson shows the Grik, or at least some of them, becoming more than the savages they were in the first book. Some are now learning and changing their attitudes and there are even ‘civilian’ Grik who have become aides to the leaders of the Grand Alliance!

Although this might not be quite as exciting as the last book this is still engaging and left me anxious to follow the challenges of the characters into book seven!

Audio Notes: I can't think of much new to add to my previous comments on Dufris' excellent narration of this series.  I am continually amazed at the numerous voices and characters he successfully portrays.  His narration makes the listening a great enjoyment for me.

Here is a summary of some of the activities in this installment:

• Captain Reddy and the crew on USS Walker are traveling on to the ‘Colonies’ (headed towards what in our world would be southern California) to give warning against suspected attack by the Dominion. Unfortunately the enemy arrives before warning can help. The American and Imperial British ships begin to hammered the surprised Dominion ships but then receive their own surprise when attacked by flock of dragons dropping stones!
•  The marine troops under General Pete Alden, including Lemurians and some airplane support, are facing Grik at ‘Indiaa’ Salan in the ongoing Navy war. Frigate Skippers, Greg Garrett (Ship Donaghey), Russ Chapelle, Lemurian Captain Bakia and others, are serving as a blockade against the Griks to prevent communication with their homeland. The Griks are stretching and growing in their war tactics with the help of Hige Halik and Japanese General Niwa. The Grik manage a surprise trick to lure the Alliance close enough to damage the ships so they end up on the beach in a terrible, nearly overwhelming battle.
•  Several ships, with head of nurses, Lieutenant Sandra Tucker, New Britain Princess Rebecca, and salty sailor Silva, are traveling to New Ireland to assist in the battle there. Sandra had hoped to get to see Captain Reddy but he has already headed out to the colonies. 
•  Major Chack Sab-at (a highly respected Lemurian leader and warrior) and Major Blair (Imperial British) are busy at New Ireland and New Wales fighting the murdering Dominion. They receive some help from the local civilians who recognize that their interests were abandoned by their authorities but meanwhile there is concern about a spy in their midst.
•  There is a rescue of emaciated men who were being mistreated as prisoners of war on the Japanese prison ship Mizuki Maru which has now been transported to the alternate Earth. One of the men of the group is Orrin Reddy, a pilot and a cousin of Matt Reddy. Orrin joins with Silva to help in the battle at New Wales.
•  The Grik show up with another surprising weapon, Zeppelins. Only the salvaged PBY aircraft are able to defend against them and prevent disaster to the Alliance leaders and the ship yards at Baalkpan. 
•  High Priest Adar, Admiral Keje and Rohlac meet to discuss overall plans for ongoing engagement of the enemy and protection of the people. Some of the men returning from other battles and the rescued prisoners look for new assignments deciding where they should serve next.

This is from my Audible Library. I have book seven, Iron Gray Sea, downloaded and waiting for after a few review audio books. :-)

Audible Book Review: Rising Tides: Destroyermen, Book 5 by Taylor Anderson

I love this exciting series that is full of real characters, great story lines and enhanced by wonderful narration.

Rising Tides: Destroyermen, Book 5

• UNABRIDGED
• by Taylor Anderson
• Narrated by William Dufris
• Series: Destroyermen, Book 5

    LENGTH    17 hrs and 32 mins
RELEASE DATE    02-01-11
 PUBLISHER    Tantor Audio
Genre: Alternate World Fantasy
My Rating: 5.0 of 5.0

Publisher's Summary

Stuck in an alternate universe during World War II, Lieutenant Commander Matthew Reddy of the U.S.S. Walker has found an unlikely but invaluable ally in Commodore Jenks of the New Britain Imperial Navy. And now they are united in their desire to hunt down the traitor who abducted two women both men would die to protect: Reddy's love, nurse Sandra Tucker, and young Princess Rebecca of the New British Empire. But first they have a new battle to win.

However, this battle will not be fought with broadsides and broadswords, but with cunning and intrigue. For when Reddy and Jenks report the situation to the New Britain Company, they are met with scorn and disbelief. It soon becomes obvious that the ruthless Company is attempting to overthrow the Imperial Throne - and that someone involved knows where Sandra and Rebecca are. From the halls of power to the ballrooms of the nobility, Reddy must navigate through a tempest of politics, deception, and betrayal if he is ever going to save the hostages and live to fight another day.
©2010 Taylor Anderson (P)2011 Tantor

Review:
This is a great addition to this series in which American and Japanese ships from WWII have gone through a warp to a parallel world filled with strange creatures and a cannibalistic enemy, the Grik.  I like facing the adventures in this strange world with these wonderful, quirky characters. The story had me laughing out loud when the Americans were introduced to the British Governor. At another part I was near tears as struggles to complete a mission turned to tragedy.

There is interesting detail of munitions, replacing supplies of weapons and transport, ships and aircraft, as well as battle strategy that I find fascinating. There is also plenty of action to keep the listener interested.  Taylor does a great job of making the characters full and real. One or two of the events are in the nature of miracles, but, hey - I believe in miracles! And not all of it has happy endings as this is full of war and struggling in hostile environments.

Audio Notes: Dufris does a fabulous job building on the real characters by giving them believable accents full of nuances and emotion. His narration is remarkable and definitely enhances the reading enjoyment for me. I am excited to listen/read on to book 6!

This is a summary of the action lines followed in this book 5:

• Captain Matthew Reddy, Commander in Chief of the Allied Forces, is back on the restored destroyerman, Walker, and is chasing after the half of dozen of his people who were kidnapped.  Walker follows his new friend, Commander Jenks, to the New Britain Empire Respite Island in the Philippines. There the Americans and New Britain leaders come under attack by the Holy Dominion.

•  General Pete Aldrich is pursuing the ongoing Navy war. He is leading a group of marines, including Lemurians, against the Grik on ‘Rangoon.’  His troops are getting some very helpful support from the newly built airplanes known as the “Nancys.”

•  Those kidnapped, including Matt’s not-so- secret love, Sandra, New Britain child Princess Rebecca, her friend, Lawrence and crazy sailor, Silva, as well as a few others, have escaped in life boats. Now they are trying to survive on dangerous Yap island. They have to find a way to get their small boat to the other side of the island  as the vicious chic-sac begin to swarm for their egg laying season. Along the way to get back to civilization they pick up a crazy talking bird.  “Eat?” he shrieks!

• Ensign Irwin Laumur is with a group at Talud Island trying to salvage a S19 submarine, while  the island volcano rumbles and threatens to blow. They ultimately have no choice but to take refuge in the previously abandoned sub. They scramble away when the eruption occurs only to be plunged under the resulting waves.

• Lieutenant Commander Russ Chapelle is directing the efforts at Chill-chaap trying to salvage a large freighter, the Santa Catalina, with it’s precious cargo of military equipment. They must face giant gecko-gators which turn out to be surprisingly social and responsive.

This download is from my own Audible Library. I have Book 6, Firestorm, ready next!

Audible Book Review: Distant Thunders: Destroyermen, Book 4 by Taylor Anderson

This is a action-packed series; entertaining listening!

Distant Thunders: Destroyermen, Book 4
UNABRIDGED
by Taylor Anderson
Narrated by William Dufris
    LENGTH    16 hrs and 47 mins
    RELEASE DATE    06-01-10
    PUBLISHER    Tantor Audio
Genre: Alternate Universe Sci Fi
My Rating: 4.75 of 5.0

Publisher's Summary
After the battle in which the men of the destroyer Walker and their Lemurian allies repelled the savage Grik, Lieutenant Commander Matthew Reddy is shocked by the arrival of a strange ship captained by one Commaner Jenks of the New Britain Imperial Navy - an island-nation populated by the descendants of British East Indiamen swept through the rift centuries before
With the Walker undergoing repairs, Reddy already has a great deal on his hands. For the Grik will return, and Reddy will need all hands on deck to fight them off when they next attack. But Jenks's uncertain loyalties make Reddy question whether he can trust the man. As tension between the Allies and the Imperials mount, Reddy will come to realize that his suspicions are not misplaced - and that a greater danger than the Grik is closer than he ever suspected.

Review:
This is the fourth book in the series continuing the adventures of Captain Matthew Reddy and the Americans from the two destroyers, Walker, and Mahan, who have landed in a parallel world– out of time. Author Anderson, through a smooth process of flashbacks, presents the background information of the existing characters so new readers can identify them. I found the information helpful to refresh my memory without being at all boring. The reader also learns more about the newer characters, particularly the British Empire officer, Jenks, who might turn out to be honorable and the “East Indian Company” man, Billingsly, who clearly is not honorable.

There is quite a bit of interesting history on ship and weapon development. I appreciated how the author combines the more advanced, industrialized 1940s crew with the previous peaceful, but non-industrialized Lemurian culture so they work together to develop new materials and methods to build the assets needed to prepare for the war against the Grik.

The Grik are still in the picture with a few scenes keeping the reader informed on the changes happening with their leadership and machinations. It is interesting to observe the hunter having to deal with the realization that they are becoming the prey to the American and Allied forces.

After reintroducing the players there is plenty of action. Captain Reddy takes Captain Jenks along to Aryall to see the battle preparations and advance engagements against the Grik. Meanwhile, repairs to Walker and other damaged ships is underway at the shipyard at Baalkpan.  Billingsly, left behind with the British ship at Baalkpan, kidnaps the New Britain Princess, Rebecca, along with several others, including Matt’s sweetheart, Lieutenant Sandra Tucker, and the irrepressible, salty, but genius, sailor, Dennis Silva.

Matt returns to Baalkpan to head out in pursuit of Billingsly while Silva ruminates over escape plans for those kidnapped. There is plenty more story to look forward to in the next installment!

Audio Notes: I am utterly impressed with the narration by William Dufris. He portrays the character idiosyncrasies and his reading keeps pace with the emotions and actions. I love listening to this series!

This was a download from my own Audible Library; Just for Fun pick for August.

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.

Audible Book Review: Crusade: Destoryermen, Book 2 by Taylor Anderson

This story is full of action and character struggles!

Crusade: Destroyermen, Book 2

• UNABRIDGED
• by Taylor Anderson
• Narrated by William Dufris 
• Series: Destroyermen, Book 2

Also available in print and ebook formats.
Genre: Science Fiction
My Rating: 4.5 of 5.0

Publisher's Summary
Lieutenant Commander Matthew Reddy, along with the men and women of the USS Walker, have chosen sides in a war not of their making. They have allied with the Lemurians - a mammalian race whose peaceful existence is under attack from the warlike, reptilian Grik.

The Lemurians are vastly outnumbered and ignorant of warfare, and even the guns and technology of Walker cannot turn the tide of battle. Luckily, they are not alone. Reddy finally finds Mahan, the other destroyer that passed through the rift. Together, the two American ships will teach the Lemurians to fight and stand against the bloodthirsty Grik - or so they think.

For there is another vessel that does not belong on these strange seas - the massive Japanese battle cruiser Amagi, the very ship that Walker was fleeing from when the rift took them. Like Mahan, it followed them through. And now Amagi is in the hands of the Grik.

Battle stations! Listen to more in the Destroyermen series.

Review:
This is book two of the Destroyerman series. In book one, Into the Storm, Destroyermen, two American destroyers, Walker and Mahan, are limping away from a powerful Japanese war ship, the Amagi, during World War II when a Pacific storm whisks them into a parallel universe. They are separated and the first story focuses on Walker and her crew as they encounter new species: the friendly cat-like Lemurians, who are farmers and fishermen and the ugly, reptilian (dinosaur-like) Grik, who are clearly a barbaric foe. 

This second book expands on the personalities and relationships of the Americans and their Lemurian allies who they are training to fight and resist the attacks of the Grik. There are several cities and factions of the Lemurians to cope with. Young but fiercely brave Queen Moran of the Bibadans is one of the first to recognize the leadership of Captain Reddy and the need to take an aggressive stand. Unfortunately the neighboring tribe city of Arial is led by a cowardly King and a sniveling Prince who would betray a temporary alliance.  This causes civil war with the mature head of the army, Lord Rollack, joining forces with Queen Moran and the Americans to force back a Grik attack.

There are plenty of personal stories and drama to engage the reader in the characters. Sinji is a Japanese Lieutenant who has become part of the crew on Walker, as has a young Jac, who sees himself as a Destoryerman now, no longer a Lemurian sailor. The teams, American and Lemurian, have discovered that their vessels are more than just ships; they have become homes to the officers and crews. The story is rich with actions of individuals, some brave and some despicable. There is racial prejudice and discipline to deal with. There are strategy plans, vibrant battles, betrayal, dishonor and sacrifice. Well into this story it is discovered that the more powerful Japanese ship, the Amagi, has also been pulled into this alternate world. Its crazed Captain is seeking revenge against the Americans and has allied with the Grik. The Captain has no regard for innocents to the dismay of his second in command.

I am invested in the characters and am apt to hold my breath at times of betrayal and danger. If you like a story full of personal interaction, some military strategy and plenty of action I highly recommend this series.

Audio Notes: William Dufris does an excellent job keeping up the pace, presenting the characters and conveying the tension to bring the story alive. I am definitely looking forward to listening to the rest of the series!

~~~~~~~~~~~

Captain Reddy discusses the reason for war with Adar, a Lemurian leader and philosopher:

Captain Reddy:  "Why we fight - it's fight or die. You might die if you fight, but you will die if you don't."
Adar: "Looking at it like that, the war isn't an excuse; it's a blessing. A chance for survival."

I purchased this some months ago and listened to it from my Audible TBR shelf. 
This was my April Just for fun/from the TBR shelf book and I will add it to my Audio Challenge list.