Gavin Scott is the second baseman for the Nashville Legends pro baseball team and his marriage is in trouble. He recently discovered that his wife TheGavin Scott is the second baseman for the Nashville Legends pro baseball team and his marriage is in trouble. He recently discovered that his wife Thea has faked having orgasms with him, all but one, and he didn’t handle it well. Not realizing this was just a symptom of bigger problems, Gavin’s reaction was the proverbial straw that broke their fragile relationship. Now he’s desperate to get his family back and when he’s approached by some of his biggest alpha team members about joining their secret book club, he’s skeptical.
I wanted this book the moment I heard about it and I knew I wanted it on audio. Best decisions ever because I loved both. This book club was all about reading romance novels to learn more about what women want and applying that knowledge. To say Gavin was leery is an understatement but he’s given a regency romance novel as his guide. There are too many laugh-out-loud moments to recount and they help balance the more serious moments devoted to the very real marital issues Gavin and Thea shoulder.
I loved this book and one surprise element was the inclusion of whole passages from the regency novel, performed by Maxwell Caulfield, which linked clearly to Gavin’s next steps. As the story is told primarily from Gavin’s point of view, it was insightful to get a male’s point of view. We also get Thea’s regularly, which underscored that both of them contributed to the sad state of their marriage. This was the fun I was looking for and the story of substance I didn’t expect. I hadn’t heard Andrew Eiden before but he was excellent as Gavin. Loved listening to this so much that I finished it in a day. Bravo that this is now a series, one with so much fertile material for future stories I don’t want it to end anytime soon.
(Thanks to Penguin Random House Audio for my complimentary copy. All opinions are my own.)...more
Tierney James has reached 16 years of age, called the grace year in Garner County when young girls must leave for the next year and purge themselves oTierney James has reached 16 years of age, called the grace year in Garner County when young girls must leave for the next year and purge themselves of their magic, which reaches its height and most potent level now. That “magic” is their essence that causes men to be unable to resist them and women to be madly jealous of them. Not all of them are expected to survive and what they’ll face is almost unimaginable.
I struggle with defining when this story is placed and have decided that I’ll just speculate based on my own instincts. It’s a dystopian environment as everything that happens is beyond acceptable in this society. I imagine it’s the culmination of future events based on the common experience girls and women continue to face today. While improving, its ability to continue to get better is precarious. This story, for me, is a cautionary warning to all women to not slide back and to keep moving forward.
I added this book to my shelf solely on the recommendation of one friend who said I must so I didn’t even read the synopsis before starting. It quickly became disturbing and I needed to find a place to anchor me in the story, which took some time. I wanted to find the villains and heroes but that clarity never came because, through Tierney, I figured out that each person had to find that in themselves before they could empower others. Tierney never lost her courage of conviction, though she didn’t always make the correct choices. However, it wasn’t for lack of trying. Things happened that repulsed me but there was an underlying beauty to Tierney’s unwavering belief in the girls who failed her time and again.
I have to applaud the narrator, Emily Shaffer, who performed the story in such a way that she never got in the way of the story. She illuminated the characters the way they were crafted, so vividly I had no issues imagining them. I’m grateful I made the decision to listen to this story because the narration is outstanding.
This was an extremely difficult story with the most powerful messages and themes. I listened to the interview with the author at the end of the book and am so glad I did as she reinforced some of the messages I captured and provided me with some “aha” moments. I haven’t shelved this as young adult as my sense is that it’s an even more important story for adult women, to capture these messages and continue (or begin!) to empower young women as they are introduced to a world that hasn’t taken the best care of or properly nurtured them. This is such an important book in any format.
Teagan Ransom is reinventing herself. She’s a plastic surgeon and former reality TV star now living in Seattle, transplanted from New York. She’s madeTeagan Ransom is reinventing herself. She’s a plastic surgeon and former reality TV star now living in Seattle, transplanted from New York. She’s made new friends and is living in a butterfly-roofed house with a view of Puget Sound and working from home developing skin care products. Her tranquil existence is disrupted when her next door neighbors suddenly sell their home to Garrett Frost, a successful photographer. Their attraction is instant but it’s clear that both have some tragedy in their pasts.
This was a puzzling story for most of the book as there was an intimacy between Garrett and Teagan that ramped up at lightening speed. I wasn’t feeling it and kept looking for the why. Teagan’s story was revealed so slowly but I knew it was still incomplete because it didn’t provide meaningful insights. Garrett’s was equally slow but much more enlightening. There was always enough to keep me in the story but I couldn’t shake the feeling that I was missing something, like I’d been dropped into the middle of the book. My instincts were dead on as there’s a bombshell dropped late into the party. I’m still trying to sort out if it would have been better to have this revealed earlier. I’m thinking not because I blew through this, trying to GET these characters and what they were about. I liked both of them, though Garrett could come on strong at times. No matter, though as I rooted for them to work.
Fans of Crossfire will be delighted to see characters from that series make brief appearances. You don’t have to have read those books to follow what’s going on but insiders will appreciate the updates.
I listened to this story and the narrators were very good, especially Emma Wilder who carries most of the weight. Her male voice was excellent, making me think that it was an actual male narrator! I’m very glad I chose this format as it really helped me enjoy the book, despite my frustration with the delay in figuring things out. 3.5 stars
(Thanks to Brilliance Audio for me complimentary copy. All opinions are my own.)...more
Trez Latimer is a Shadow who not long ago sacrificed everything to mate with Selena, a Chosen. When she later died, a part of him did, too. His brotheTrez Latimer is a Shadow who not long ago sacrificed everything to mate with Selena, a Chosen. When she later died, a part of him did, too. His brother and those in his life who care for him worry that he’s lost his will to live and are concerned that he’ll take matters in his own hands. But recently, a young woman named Therese comes to work for iAm in his restaurant as a server and stuns all that see her because she’s a dead ringer for Selena.
I so love being back in the world of the Brotherhood. There’s nothing like these stories and characters, no matter the subject, especially on audio, and this one is no different. I will always listen to Jim Frangione narrate them as he’s a critical component of the whole experience.
Since Therese entered the series, I’ve been waiting for this story and am happy it came during the holiday season. That Trez and Therese would eventually come together was inevitable and my hope was that it be imaginative and unconventional. To some degree it was, augmented in part with some involvement by others (we get some serious Lassiter time). Trez moves cautiously and Therese is inexplicably drawn to him but she has no idea of her visual connection to Selena. You know at some point this will culminate into something dramatic but the journey there was passionate and heartwarming. I rooted for them.
When Selena died, I just didn’t feel like that was Trez’s story or fate. Some fans of the series were disturbed by the author’s decisions to follow this path (I wasn’t), even though it was an extremely well written book. I just didn’t think that was the end for some reason. For me, this filled that void left after the conclusion of The Shadows. Did things wrap up a bit easily? Maybe. But, this time, it feels complete. 4.5 stars
Harper Devlin gave her heart and soul to husband Axel, helping him on the way up to becoming a renowned lead singer for the rock band, Pulse. Now thatHarper Devlin gave her heart and soul to husband Axel, helping him on the way up to becoming a renowned lead singer for the rock band, Pulse. Now that he’s a success, he’s declared they’re finished and wants to explore life as a rock star and all that implies. Harper takes her two young daughters to Silver Springs, California to spend the Christmas holiday with her sister and her family, hoping to heal her broken heart and pray that Axel has a change of heart. When Tobias Richardson sees her eating alone in a diner and notices her sadness, he gives her words of encouragement and a rose to brighten her spirits. This begins an unusual relationship neither saw as a possibility.
After the last book, I was hoping for more about Tobias who was released from prison five months ago after 13 years of incarceration for a tragic accident he committed as a teen. Not all of that time was for the original charge as he was given more years for defending himself in prison. That’s important because Tobias was never a hardened or habitual criminal and is really working hard to make something of his life following prison. So, when he reached out to Harper, it was without guile or ulterior motive.
What I loved about this story was the possibility of hope and redemption that was always in the background. It is perfect that Tobias’ story happened during Christmas, a time of goodwill and giving. In Tobias, Harper found someone who appreciated her for who she was and not as the wife of someone famous. In Harper, Tobias found a woman of compassion with a lovely spirit. I enjoyed their journey, even though the heat ramped up rather quickly. I am happy I opted to listen to the story as Veronica Worthington is one of my favorite narrators for romance. She does male voices very well, avoiding the pitfall of lowering her voice to emulate the change in gender. Worthington finds better and effective ways to provide distinctions.
I really enjoyed this story and while it stands alone very well (as do most of the books in this series), I highly recommend reading the preceding book because it gives Tobias much more texture and layers. I rarely read out of order so that’s a big statement for me.
Maggie and Nick White raised their two daughters, Katie and Rosie, at Honeysuckle Cottage, in Oxford, England. Katie is an ER trauma physician and RosMaggie and Nick White raised their two daughters, Katie and Rosie, at Honeysuckle Cottage, in Oxford, England. Katie is an ER trauma physician and Rosie recently left for Harvard in a fully-funded doctoral program. Unknown to their daughters, Maggie and Nick are near divorce having been separated for the last six months. When Rosie calls Maggie in the middle of the night to tell them she’s not only engaged but getting married at Christmas in less than four weeks...in Aspen, Colorado, their lives are thrown into chaos. Maggie decides now isn’t the time to tell Rosie and Katie about their parents’ crumbling marriage, Katie thinks she needs to find a way to covertly convince her sister this is a mistake while she hides her own recent trauma and Rosie keeps quiet about her own doubts. The occasion of Rosie’s wedding sets in motion some hilarious moments as the White family descends on Colorado, their first Christmas away from Honeysuckle Cottage.
I really enjoyed this layered story, told from the points of view of Maggie, Katie and Rosie. Maggie & Nick’s ruse to present themselves as a still loving couple provides for some interesting and truly funny situations. The effect of Katie’s recent trauma, revealed slowly throughout the story, provides a more serious tone as she reflects on her life and questions her career choice. Rosie’s sweet nature is challenged as her family continues to relate to her as the young, asthmatic child that they all had to take care of and make decisions for. Their communication issues created a lot more angst than necessary but was deftly handled so that it didn’t become tiresome.
The beautiful setting in the Christmas season made this a delightful story. I really enjoyed Lucy Tregear’s narration as she has great comedic skills and timing. While there wasn’t much in the way of character distinction by Tregear, the character definition was strong enough to compensate. All three women were strongly developed and designed so I always knew who was speaking and the transitions were announced. This was a perfect story for the season, one that I was reluctant to see end. Morgan’s annual Christmas stories are now one of my must reads.
Cyrus Haven is a police psychologist who was asked to interview a young girl, Evie Cormac, a resident of a high-security children’s home who has a horCyrus Haven is a police psychologist who was asked to interview a young girl, Evie Cormac, a resident of a high-security children’s home who has a horrific history. She was discovered six years ago in an abandoned apartment with a corpse and no memory of who she is. Her name was given to her and her age estimated. Now she’s taking the home to court, asking for emancipation as she asserts she’s 18-years old. Cyrus is also consulted when the body of a 15-year old skating champion is found along a footpath. He has his own awful history that helps him form a tenuous connection with Evie and bring a unique perspective to Jodie’s investigation.
We get both Cyrus’ and Evie’s narratives, which adds an interesting angle to the storytelling. There are so many mysteries surrounding Evie’s life before her rescue and she’s not an easy subject. However, she has an extraordinary ability to determine whether someone is lying or telling the truth, forcing Cyrus to always be authentic with her. I loved their developing relationship, her having no foundation for trusting anyone and him still a work in progress in overcoming a tragic childhood loss. Both have layers that were interesting to see slowly peeled back, though there are still many to go. The Jodie Sheehan case had so many directions and I fell victim to some of the false paths. Beware of red herrings because all the clues are there!
I really liked listening to the story and was particularly pleased with how the narrator handled female voices. They actually sounded like women! I wasn’t sold on his interpretation of Cyrus but it was a good performance overall.
This is my second book by the author and he still has my attention. I’d planned to read the Joseph O’Loughlin series first but couldn’t resist this one. I really enjoyed this story and the introduction of Cyrus Haven (though I understand he first appeared in the O’Loughlin series) and just want more of this complex character. And, there are some loose threads to continue, including the enigmatic Evie, even though the Sheehan’s case was resolved. I’m all in for this one, especially after that explosive ending.
(Thanks to Simon & Schuster Audio for my complimentary copy. All opinions are my own.)...more
Jules Larsen, a 20-something who’s just lost her job and cheating boyfriend, thinks her luck is turning around when she’s hired as an apartment sitterJules Larsen, a 20-something who’s just lost her job and cheating boyfriend, thinks her luck is turning around when she’s hired as an apartment sitter in Manhattan’s historic and iconic Bartholomew. She’s being paid an incredible amount of money to essentially live in luxury and gaze out at Central Park from her new home. But, it comes with some serious strings attached...no visitors, she must spend every night in the apartment and no contact with some of the more infamous residents. The building also has a troubling history but Jules is unsure if it’s myth, fact or something in between. When she befriends Ingrid, another apartment sitter, and she goes missing after expressing some fear about the Bartholomew, Jules begins a perilous search to find out what happened to her.
Talk about a high creep factor! It doesn’t take long for the curious atmosphere of the Bartholomew to transition from glamorous to mysterious, in just a few pages. I soon realized that I couldn’t trust what I was seeing and hearing through Jules’ eyes and ears because of her own biased lens. Her tragic background made me wonder if she was overlaying her own experiences into the present but I wasn’t sure. After a bit, I gave up and just let the story take over (best decision!) and rode along. I trusted no one after awhile except Jules and let her work through it to the exciting end.
I loved this story for how it just captured my imagination so quickly and comprehensively. I found myself thinking about the story when I wasn’t listening to it. And speaking of listening, the narrator, Dylan Moore, was so completely Jules and how perfect that they both share names typically seen as male. She captured the character’s emotions as designed for every scene and didn’t try to over dramatize her or all of the other secondary ones. It was a great listening experience and the story addictive. I got to a point where I had no idea how it would end but certainly never guessed the reality. For me, that’s a very, very good thing. This author continues to be an auto read and I strongly recommend this book if you’re into creepy, highly atmospheric stories.
Natalie (Nat) Murphy is a 21-year old art student, really struggling financially to make school work as well as survive in New York. As she reaches a Natalie (Nat) Murphy is a 21-year old art student, really struggling financially to make school work as well as survive in New York. As she reaches a desperate point, one of her fellow students who seems to be living well beyond her means suggests that she consider her solution...become a “Sugar Baby” and find herself a safe “Sugar Daddy.” After some soul searching, she decides to give it a try and connects with Gabe Turnmill, a wealthy, fifty-ish lawyer who is handsome and powerful.
One of the reasons I wanted to read this story is because I’ve struggled to understand how young, intelligent women turn to this kind of solution and I trusted this author to give me that insight. Well, mission accomplished as Nat’s descent from a young, talented and idealistic student to the mess she found herself embroiled in was well chronicled and ultimately inevitable. While we have all heard the stories, what resounded for me was just how much Nat was a victim, even though she was the one shunned and judged. The manipulation of young women by powerful older men is so clearly illustrated without filter...it’s that eye opening, even as Nat isn’t always portrayed sympathetically. It’s just tough getting around the predatory behavior.
I also chose to listen to this story and found the narrator wonderful. I thought it challenging to effectively capture both Nat and Gabe but Amanda Dolan pulled it off nicely. I'll definitely be on the lookout for her future book performances.
Some may consider this journey predictable but it’s the subtleties throughout that demand attention...Nat’s interpretations of Gabe’s lies and attentions and his dependence on manipulation. It is a part of who he is and most others like him who create Sugar Babies (note I lay their creation squarely at the feet of these men). You’ll even find yourself liking him. Nat isn’t completely innocent but she certainly was a victim and that’s something that came through loudly. I’ll never look at these young girls the same way again and for that I’m grateful to this story.
(Thanks to Simon & Schuster Audio for my complimentary copy. All opinions are my own.)...more
This story spans decades, beginning with Francis Gleeson and Brian Stanhope, two rookie NYPD policemen whose paths crossed briefly on the job but lateThis story spans decades, beginning with Francis Gleeson and Brian Stanhope, two rookie NYPD policemen whose paths crossed briefly on the job but later connect when the Stanhopes buy the house next door to the Gleesons. Lena Gleeson is pregnant and lonely, looking forward to someone near her own age as a close neighbor. However, it’s clear from the onset that Anne Stanhope does not share that point of view, distancing herself and even displaying hostility. However, years later, Kate, the youngest Gleeson child and Peter, the Stanhope’s only one, become fast friends at a very young age and remain such until after a decade tragedy separates the families. Their reunion years later is a catalyst to force them all to face what happened and breed much introspection.
I started this blindly, meaning I didn’t read the synopsis after adding this to my shelf a few months ago. Initially I was trying to figure out what it was about until I realized all I needed to do was relax and absorb the story and really get to know the characters who are richly crafted. I liked most of them, even when they didn’t make the best decisions or choices. As they aged, perspectives changed or shifted, sometimes in curious directions. What remained constant was the seemingly impenetrable bond between Kate and Peter and it anchors the story and two families, for better or worse.
I’m so very glad I chose this story in the midst of others that are high tension and action. This caused me to stop and reflect throughout, left to my own conclusions. It doesn’t strike for high drama or lofty solutions. These are people who I could know, family or friends, as they make their way through life doing the best they know how to do in the moment. I loved the ending, which followed in the same vein, not offering major twists or revelations, rather just mature insights bred from experience. I love where it left me, having me consider the events of my own life and whether I’d be better or worse without them. I’m also grateful I chose the audio format as the narrator’s subtle performances for each character gave them weight. She obviously understood the importance of the light touch, letting this lovely story resound.
Wow! That was...I really don’t have adequate words to do this story justice but I’ll give it my best.
Here’s the setup. Two women, one the wife and onWow! That was...I really don’t have adequate words to do this story justice but I’ll give it my best.
Here’s the setup. Two women, one the wife and one the newly discovered mistress. Ethan, the offending husband, is out of town and Tessa just discovered his betrayal. She’s alone in their big coastal home with a hurricane bearing down on her, her internal storm growing at the same rate. She lures the girlfriend, Lindsey, to the house, not even sure why but wanting to know at a minimum who her husband chose to put their marriage at risk. What happens over the next few hours is one wild, crazy confrontation.
If you’ve ever experienced infidelity, Tessa’s range of emotions will feel awfully familiar. Even though some of her actions may sound crazy, you’d probably identify with them because you’ve been there. What she wanted from Lindsey sometimes felt like a fool’s errand but something you’ve got to explore in the midst of insane thoughts and emotional turmoil. Lindsey, as the other woman, offers a perspective, also relatable whether you identify with it or not, sometimes infuriating and pathetically naive at others. I was astounded at the author’s insights throughout because both of these women seem to capture the appropriate feelings and reactions with precision. When I later learned the author had been through this herself, it all made perfect sense. And, I’m so glad I chose the audio version because the narrators owned these characters. They made me feel!
I finished this in one sitting because I just couldn’t stop listening. It’s a perfect illustration of someone writing about something you know because it felt personal and raw and ugly and chock full of unfiltered vulnerability. It’s just perfect. And crazy.
(Thanks to Simon & Schuster Audio for my complimentary copy. All opinions are my own.)...more
This is the story of Daisy Jones, a young girl with an amazing voice and presence, and The Six, a rock band coming into its own in the late 60s, earlyThis is the story of Daisy Jones, a young girl with an amazing voice and presence, and The Six, a rock band coming into its own in the late 60s, early 70s. Daisy is a bit of a free spirit who wants to write and sing her own songs though she’s very deeply immersed in the drugs of that era. The band is informally led by its chief songwriter, Billy Dunne who has his own challenges. The group and Daisy Jones disbanded at the height of their fame and the story chronicles, in documentary style, their origins and what happened to have them walk away from their success.
I listened to this book and if ever there was a time to choose the audio version, this is that story. With a full cast narration, the performances are outstanding and lift this compelling story to the highest level. I was hooked five minutes into the book and very quickly felt like I knew all these characters (and there are a lot of them!). Though some paths are predictable because, well, it’s a rock band in the early 70s, for the most part, the journey meanders rather deliciously towards the unknown. I kept waiting for Daisy to crash and burn but there’s a tragic resilient quality there that had me rooting for her, even when her redemption was unlikely. Billy’s relationship with his soulmate Camila is unlike most you see in this music arena though it reminded me somewhat of June Carter and Johnny Cash but she’s not a performer. Camila, however, emerges as one of the most important characters in the story. When Daisy connects with The Six, it gets complicated.
I absolutely loved this story! The characters were fascinating and what was most interesting was being able to experience the relationships in the band transition as they became more successful. Some were more complicated than others and all unique in their own way. But, at the forefront are Daisy and Billy. There’s a little surprise in store at the end that I never saw coming. I thoroughly enjoyed the listening experience (check out the book description for the full cast list), the story, the vividly drawn characters. Taylor Jenkins Reid is now on my auto read list because I’m loving her writing style.
Diarmid Mactavish, Laird of Intertavey in the Scottish Highlands, is out for an early morning ride when he discovers the body of a man on the beach whDiarmid Mactavish, Laird of Intertavey in the Scottish Highlands, is out for an early morning ride when he discovers the body of a man on the beach who’s obviously drowned. Nearby is another one, a woman who is still alive. After reviving her, she tells him that she has no memory of who she is or where she’s from. Secretly, Fiona Grant knows full well her identity but has always been taught that the Mactavishes are mortal enemies of the Grants and not to be trusted even though she’s fleeing the brutish Grant clan. And, she’s in search of her 9-year daughter who they took away from her almost a year ago.
One of the things I’m enjoying about the series are the strong heroines. Fiona has suffered greatly but instead of being a victim she became stronger and more resilient. Diarmid carries some baggage because of his mother’s betrayal of him and his father so he’s definitely suspicious of the beautiful Fiona and brings that to the relationship. While they’re both drawn to each other, the tension comes from their struggles to get beyond their suspicions and develop trust. Fiona had a terrible past that was slowly revealed through the course of the story. It made for a much more interesting reading experience even though I was anxious to learn everything right away.
It makes such a difference when you like both characters despite their stubbornness and missteps. These two were well crafted. Diarmid doesn’t always do the right thing but his heart’s in the right place. Likewise for Fiona and every decision she makes is for her daughter’s sake. I loved the mix of mystery, suspense, romance and place in this story. Campbell always gets the vernacular correct, making you feel like you’re in the era and in the Scottish hillsides. This was a lovely story even in the tough moments. I hated to see this one end.
(Thank you to he author for my complimentary copy. All opinions are my own.)...more
Korean immigrants Pak and Young Yoo live in Miracle Creek, Virginia and operate a controversial healing mechanism, a submarine-like apparatus that purKorean immigrants Pak and Young Yoo live in Miracle Creek, Virginia and operate a controversial healing mechanism, a submarine-like apparatus that purports to heal patients through oxygen therapy. Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy or HBOT treatments have helped many with a variety of medical issues from children with autism to men with infertility problems. On one late summer evening, the HBOT exploded during a treatment session, killing two patients, injuring another and putting the Yoo’s daughter Mary in a coma. When the origin of the fire that caused the explosion is determined to be arson, focus is placed on Elizabeth Ward, the mother of the young boy who died. Through the trial, we get the narratives of those present that day and they reveal a labyrinth of secrets and lies that call into question who was responsible for the HBOT tragedy.
I’m so thankful to my Goodreads and blogger friends because without them, I would never have selected this book to read. It has just about everything...courtroom drama, mystery, intrigue, humor and tragedy. It’s also an excellent exploration of the human condition with all its messiness and is educational in not only introducing this treatment phenomenon but providing much needed insight about the caretakers for children with autism and the immigrant experience.
I struggled to put this book down once I started and finished one afternoon after only intending to listen for an hour or two. The characters are brilliantly developed, revealing unending layers for each. By the end, there aren’t any ambiguities about any of them. My list of suspects changed with each narrative transition as clues were added throughout. The narrator was SO good, adding even more to an already great story. It’s difficult to get my head around this being a debut novel because it reflects the style of a much more seasoned writer. If you listen to the audiobook, which I heartily recommend, be sure to listen to the interview with the author at the end, conducted by the editor. This is an extraordinarily good story that I recommend to everyone!
Charles Jenkins is a 60-year old former CIA case officer who is now married with a young family and a baby on the way. He owns a security firm that’s Charles Jenkins is a 60-year old former CIA case officer who is now married with a young family and a baby on the way. He owns a security firm that’s in financial trouble because a major client falls in serious arrears. When his former bureau chief approaches him about being reactivated for one assignment in Russia, Jenkins reluctantly takes it on as a means to salvage his business. However, once in Moscow, nothing goes as planned and he finds himself in the fight of his life to not only stay alive but make it back home, only to discover even bigger issues.
This story is one great cocktail with all the right ingredients to make it an exciting brew. Equal parts espionage and thriller, one part legal drama and the rest a gnarly mystery, it’s just an exceptional literary ride! I had no clue as to what to expect from one scene to the next and his Russian counterpart was as formidable as Jenkins. There are other interesting characters that rose to the proverbial occasion when needed but you’ll need to read this for yourself to learn more.
I chose to listen to this story (brilliant decision!) and I’m now an instant fan of the narrator, Edoardo Ballerini, who I happened to see in an episode of NYPD Blue while in the middle of this book! He’s an experienced actor with awards for his audiobook performances and I can attest that if any of those were as good as this one, they were well deserved. He managed a host of accents, ages and genders and all rang authentic. He will be a tipping point for me going forward if he’s associated with a book I’m considering.
I enjoyed this story made even more exciting by the narrator. So many of my friends have raved about this author and now I know why. I’m also thrilled that this is the start of a new series because I want to see more of Jenkins, his cohorts and family. The end of the book came much too soon for me and it had nothing to do with an unsatisfactory ending...far from it. 4.5 stars
Lieutenant and Homicide Detective Samantha (Sam) Holland gets the call in the pre-dawn morning hours that everyone hopes to never get. It’s her stepmoLieutenant and Homicide Detective Samantha (Sam) Holland gets the call in the pre-dawn morning hours that everyone hopes to never get. It’s her stepmother, Celia, letting her know that her father, Skip Holland, is in medical crisis, forcing Sam to make one of the most painful decisions of her life. However, with his death comes a resurgence of attention to his shooting four years ago that almost killed him and left him a quadriplegic.
I’ve dreaded this story since the start of the series as Skip’s death was inevitable (not a spoiler as it’s in the synopsis and happens in the beginning of the story). His determination to live a full life despite his physical circumstances was uplifting and I loved how his character was crafted. However, after the initial depressing turn, the story shifted to re-examining his cold case and finding the shooter as it’s now a murder investigation, bringing Skip back to life as he was in his magnificent heyday.
Force handled Skip’s passing with her typical insight and sensitivity. I loved everything about this story, which evoked so many emotions...sadness and despair, joy and humor, tension and excitement, and outrage tempered by justice as the investigation evolved to its surprising conclusion. Narrator Eva Kaminsky had her work cut out for her as so many of the series characters have substantive roles and she managed them expertly. I’m still thrilled about my decision to switch to the audio format at #3 because she brings an already lively story to new heights. This was an absolutely fitting story to celebrate Skip Holland as he makes his final appearance.
(Thanks to Harlequin Audio for my complimentary copy. All opinions are my own.) ...more
On Libby Jones 25th birthday, she receives a letter from a solicitor that unlocks the door leading to the answers about her past. She’s inherited a maOn Libby Jones 25th birthday, she receives a letter from a solicitor that unlocks the door leading to the answers about her past. She’s inherited a mansion owned by her late biological parents, Martina and Henry Lamb, Sr. But, she’s also learning the tragic circumstances that led to her being adopted when she was less than a year old. Her parents and a man with the initials DT were found dead in the house of an apparent joint suicide. Her brother and sister, Henry and Lucy, vanished and haven’t been seen or heard from since.
This was the ultimate creepy and psychologically unsettling story! Told from the points of view of Libby (named Serenity at birth), Lucy and Henry, Jr., the events leading up to what happened in that house are slowly revealed, transitioning from past to present. Most of the past is told by Henry, whose reliability was sometimes questionable, making the story even more intriguing. Lucy was the most mysterious as you can sense from her current circumstances that her life has been difficult and she’s continuing to struggle. Libby carries the weight of the present as she and a journalist, Miller Roe, try to untangle what happened in that house and to the Lamb family and others who were occupying that place.
I’m so glad I opted to listen to the story and that there were three separate narrators. Dominic Thorburn was outstanding as Henry, seeming to fit the character perfectly. All gave solid performances with distinction and it was helpful with the point of view transitions. It’s a slow burn kind of story as Henry tells how his wealthy family met their fate after having embraced another and slowly descended into something else. It lacks the punch of dramatic twists and turns but gets under your skin as the slow insinuation of these “guests” powerfully and irrevocably impact Lucy, Henry and ultimately Libby. I found it fascinating and while there are a couple of surprises at the final reveal, I saw some of them coming and the ending was so in line with the tone of the story. This was another Jewell hit for me, more subtle than earlier ones but still delivering that deft touch in mysterious storytelling.
Word of caution...this series has a continuing story arc and is intended to be read in order.
Fallon Swift, The One, and the rest of her family and coWord of caution...this series has a continuing story arc and is intended to be read in order.
Fallon Swift, The One, and the rest of her family and community at New Hope are continuing their strikes against Raiders, Purity Warriors and the corrupt government officials who are waging war against magickals and keeping the world immersed in darkness. But, Fallon realizes that it’s time to play a bigger game, to bring back the “light” and move the world out of the chaos and despair into hope and progress. The only way to do that is with bold actions.
I could hardly wait for this book’s release as I’ve loved the series and what it stands for. There’s a particular emphasis on “light” and “dark” elements, whether it be individuals’ or groups’ behaviors or the difference in magickals. It was underlying everything of significance throughout the book, so much that I began to think of every encounter this way. It was a powerful distinction as I considered what it would mean if this kind of doomsday event really happened. At some point, it does boil down to good versus evil, lightness or darkness of heart.
Most of the story is told through Fallon’s point of view, though we do get others’ insights regularly as part of her narrative. That felt appropriate given that she is The One and earned that mantle even though it was ordained. I loved how the weight of that weighed heavily on her. There are lots of small skirmishes that helped me understand both sides clearly. But what was even more compelling was Fallon’s leadership. Great leaders have bold vision, know how to inspire others and surround themselves with those who are not only wise but will be truthful to them, speaking truth to power. Her father, Simon, and trainer, Mallick, were two extremely important voices, helping guide her decisions. There were others, including her mother, Lana, who had influence and that gave me comfort because it’s critical to success.
While the great battles initiated by Fallon and her forces seemed to end swiftly, I didn’t believe that because there was great emphasis on the casualties and losses, which were many. I’m not a fan of the details of war and battle campaigns but if you are, know that this isn’t a strong element in this story. You’ll have to just accept that they were bloody and tough because they aren’t outlined. However, the strength of this final story lies with the relationships, some stemming from the beginning of the trilogy, others cultivated during the journey to present day. The final showdown between Fallon and her nemesis was exciting and the return to where it all began was poignant. I love the strong themes and their resonance as it’s relevant for current times. The resilience of the light was encouraging as we experience dark times ourselves. It left me in such a good place.
Finally, Julia Whelan is in a class by herself as a narrator. I had to remind myself that there weren’t multiple performers because it seemed like there were at least four! Just truly an outstanding performance, making the listening experience extraordinary.
(Thanks to Brilliance Audio for my complimentary copy. All opinions are my own.)...more
This series has a continuing story arc and I recommend you read the books in order for maximum enjoyment.
Who knew that after the end of the last book This series has a continuing story arc and I recommend you read the books in order for maximum enjoyment.
Who knew that after the end of the last book Evelyn would face more perils? With Jasper safely stashed away, I thought Dr. Evelyn Talbot, head psychiatrist at Hanover House, the maximum security prison in Alaska, could finally relax and devote her time to researching serial killers at this facility she designed and developed for this purpose. When she’s abducted as she arrives home (this is disclosed in the opening pages), it’s not only a question of why but by whom. She’s six-months along in her high risk pregnancy and preparing to marry Sergeant Benjamin (Amarok) Murphy in a few days. No one knows where she is and Amarok races against the clock to try to find and save her.
At first, I was disappointed to learn Evelyn was abducted once again but this story soon took on different dimensions from the past. It took a minute to figure out the who, then the how and finally if some very bad things would happen before she was found (even that wasn’t guaranteed). We got several points of view throughout the book, which really made this even more interesting. I opted for the audiobook for the first time and now I’m committed to this format because Thérèse Plummer was just outstanding in every aspect of her performance. When things got really tense, she adjusted her cadence, pace and tone to match, making my heart race and consistently delivering a 5-star narration!
It takes a while for the story to build up and Amarok is going to drive you nuts with his frenzied investigation. But the payoff is huge as I didn’t want to stop listening, especially during the last 30% of the book. It was very good up to that point but impossible to put down once I reached it. This is a unique series and continues to bring the chills. It, yet again, surpassed my expectations.
(Thanks to Macmillan Audio for my complimentary copy. All opinions are my own.)...more
I’ve waited for this story since The Thief when we got a glimpse of a destroyed Murhder at his B&B in South Carolina. He has the distinction of being I’ve waited for this story since The Thief when we got a glimpse of a destroyed Murhder at his B&B in South Carolina. He has the distinction of being the only member of the Brotherhood to be expelled. Over 20 years ago, he left Caldwell a broken and damaged man after having taking revenge on some really bad people who brought harm to a pregnant woman who still haunts him. Wrath declared him insane and kicked him out. He’s headed back now as that woman has asked for his help in finding her son. Meanwhile, Sarah Caldwell, a researcher for a biotech lab, has discovered some disturbing information about her company and her covert investigation has her crossing paths with Murhder.
As with every one of these books, there’s a lot going on. Rather than go into detail, I’ll give them a brief mention. Throe moves forward with his diabolical plan, which has entangled John Matthew in a terrible way and he’s resigned to a fate only he’s aware of. There are some strange shadows that pose critical danger to the vampire community.
But the heart of the story is all Murhder as we’re given so much insight from his point of view. He’s a complicated man who’s been disconnected for two decades. His relationship with Sarah was a lifeline, for both of them. It was lovely being a part of their discovery and his reawakening. I like seeing a misunderstood character triumph, not necessarily in others’ eyes but his own and I was rooting for him like I had some investment in the outcome. I guess I did because the author took me there.
Another unexpected aspect was Murhder’s developing relationship with John Matthew. I’d forgotten that Darius was his best friend and he was unaware of his death. Since Darius was killed in the opening chapter of the first book in this series, it was a real gift to learn more about the man who fathered John Matthew and built the enclave for the Brotherhood.
I really enjoyed this story and can’t ever imagine not hearing Jim Frangione narrate the story. The time just melts away as I’m transported into this world that’s like catnip for me. I’m now team Murhder and I loved the ending. And, this was a kinder, gentler Brotherhood and I think that was to give way to this man. Nicely done! 4.5 stars
(Thanks to Simon & Schuster Audio for my complimentary copy. All opinions are my own.)...more
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