audible / Audiobook and Book Reviews by Audiothing

audible

Showing posts with label audible. Show all posts

Calaway Jones: Blair Howard. Harry Starke 10

Thursday, 10 August 2017

Calaway Jones: The Harry Starke Novels, Book 10

Written by: Blair Howard

Narrated by: Tom Lennon

Length: 6 hrs and 8 mins

Unabridged Audiobook

Release Date:05-03-17

Publisher: Blair Howard

Publishers Summary:

"Stand absolutely still, Amanda," she read, "and you won't get hurt." Two seconds later a bullet from a sniper's rifle shattered the driver's side window of her Lexus SUV.

That's how it began, early on a Friday morning when Amanda, Harry's wife, found the note tucked under her windshield wiper. The incident was quickly followed by a series of events that would put his family and friends in deadly danger and test Harry to his limits.

Review

Just when you think the “Harry” stories can’t get any better another great new read comes along.

Harry has never had a fight on his hands like this one, someone wants him dead, but that someone wants to play games.

Once again, all the team are pulling for Harry, but there isn’t much they can do to help him, Harry does everything he can to keep them out of the way because he knows what will happen to them if they interfere in this battle of wits.

The thing is, Harry thinks he knows who wants him dead but he doesn’t know who is trying to do the deed. This adds to the excitement, which, in this story, gets quite intense.

Brilliantly entertaining Five star story, Highly recommended.

Narrated by Tom Lennon, who yet again makes Harry and the team come alive. Each time I listen to a new Harry Starke book I am reminded yet again of how lucky we are that someone chose Tom to narrate this series.

Audiobook review copy provided by the narrator

Dead Like Me: Kelly Miller

Monday, 17 April 2017

Dead Like Me: A Detective Kate Springer Mystery, Book 1

Written by: Kelly Miller

Narrated by: Angel Clark

Length: 7 hrs and 34 mins

Unabridged Audiobook

Release Date:02-13-17

Publisher: Kelly Miller

Summary

On edge after a two-week mandatory leave, Homicide Detective Kate Springer is blindsided when she discovers she shares a link with Tampa's newest murder victim. A troubled teen is found strangled and dumped in a remote part of town. The bond between them threatens to expose Detective Springer's past, a past she's been hell-bent on keeping secret. When the killer finally emerges from the shadows, Kate's secrets aren't the only thing on the line. So is her life.

Review

Content warning: this story deals with child abuse which may distress some readers.

Detective Kate Springer is seeing a police psychologist, ostensibly because of her involvement in a shooting incident. However, as time goes by, Kates childhood secrets, so carefully hidden in deep her mind, begin to emerge.

When called to a crime scene Kate gets a real shock when she first looks at the body of the young girl because she bears such a strong resemblance to herself at that age.

The investigating team pull in several men to assist with their murder inquiries and when Kate, by chance, sees one of them being interviewed, she is horrified, he is like a ghost risen from her secret past.

How will she cope? Can she maintain her outward composure when all the time her mind is trying to make sense of this awful situation?

This story contains some interesting characters, Kates work partner Patrick Jessop is the perfect foil for Kate with her funny little ways. They get along quite well but that doesn’t prevent Kate from hiding her secrets from him. Her relationship with her therapist is interesting too, I can see this being built upon in future books.

Though quite gripping and fast moving for the most part, it did seem as if certain parts were being read straight from a text book, particularly the information regarding alcoholism, for me, this somewhat intruded on the flow of the story.

I’m not usually too keen on the psychologically damaged, kick ass type of character in books, but must say, that Kate, despite her flaws, comes off as far more interesting than most.

I have made a couple of negative comments but I really did enjoy the story and would happily read more about Kate Springer, I’m sure this will be a successful series.

Ah yes, just one more thing, I’m sure all us frumpier RNs didn’t take too much offence!

Narrated by Angel Clarke who is a seasoned performer with several audiobooks under her belt. Her experience shines through, I loved her as Kelly in particular.

Angel brings a vitality to the characters, but a little too much at times I thought as couple of female voices were just a tad over animated for my taste.

Audiobook provided by the author in return for an unbiased review

Retribution: Harry Starke Book 7: 5 Stars

Wednesday, 21 December 2016

Written by: Blair Howard

Narrated by: Tom Lennon

Length: 5 hrs and 53 mins

Series: Harry Starke, Book 7

Unabridged Audiobook

Release Date:09-20-16

Publisher: Blair Howard

Publishers Summary

Shadows from the past. A brutal murder. This time it's personal.

It takes only one phone call to turn Harry Starke into a monster. It begins when Harry's kid brother is brutally murdered, his body thrown into the murky waters of the Tennessee River. That alone would be enough to set Harry on the warpath, but less than 24 hours after the body is found, Harry finds out there's a bounty on his head, too. $25,000. His answer? Strike first and strike hard. And so it begins. Harry and his army of three must go up against old enemies, but they face almost insurmountable odds when they go looking for retribution.

Review

What marks the Harry Starke books above many a P.I. series is that each book is so different to the other. There’s nothing run of the mill about this series, it never gets stale, and in this book we see yet another side of Harrys complex character.

“Retribution” begins with so much happiness, Harry, August, his father, Rose his stepmother and Amanda his fiancee are at the country club. Rose pushes Harry and Amanda for a wedding date, Harry surprises them all with not only a date, but also, actual wedding plans. A great celebration is arranged and everyone is over the moon.

Not for long though, when Harry is told the terrible news of his brothers death he puts life on hold. He vows to find the murderer.

His quest for retribution results in his life and the lives of his family and staff being put in great danger. To avenge his brothers death Harry and his team of two face seemingly impossible odds, there is a lot of gunfire and there’s violence aplenty. What follows is a dangerous, exciting and nail biting adventure.

How the heck does he get out of this one?

Yes, there is a lot of violence in this book but it is balanced out with some tender and moving moments as the family bonds are strengthened in their time of grief.

To get the full back story on Harry and all the other characters it is well worth reading the earlier books in this series

Narrated by Tom Lennon who, once again, succeeds in bringing Harry and all the characters to life. Most audiobook fans agree that a good narrator adds an extra dimension to a story thereby making it that much more enjoyable, and Tom Lennon excels in doing just that. Top job Tom!

Audiobook provided by Narrator, author or publisher for unbiased review

click on the links to read reviews of previous Harry Starke books:

Rain Dogs: Adrian McKinty 5 STARS

Monday, 15 August 2016

Written by: Adrian McKinty
Narrated by: Gerard Doyle
Length: 10 hrs and 22 mins
Series: The Troubles, Book 5
Unabridged Audiobook
Release Date:08/03/2016
Publisher: Blackstone Audio, Inc.
5 STARS
Source: Own copy

Publishers Summary
Rain Dogs, a stunning instalment in the Sean Duffy thriller series, following the Edgar Award-nominated Gun Street Girl, is "another standout in a superior series" (Booklist).
It's just the same things over and again for Sean Duffy: riot duty, heartbreak, cases he can solve but never get to court. But what detective gets two locked-room mysteries in one career?
When journalist Lily Bigelow is found dead in the courtyard of Carrickfergus castle, it looks like a suicide. Yet there are a few things that bother Duffy just enough to keep the case file open, which is how he finds out that Bigelow was working on a devastating investigation of corruption and abuse at the highest levels of power in the UK and beyond. And so Duffy has two impossible problems on his desk: Who killed Lily Bigelow? And what were they trying to hide?
©2016 Adrian McKinty (P)2016 Blackstone Audio, Inc.

Review
What a great opening chapter! Yes, Duffy is in his riot gear again, but on this day he and his men are detailed to protect a very special visitor. Muhammad Ali is visiting Belfast on his Peace Initiative tour. Thousands turn out to see him, all the bigwigs are there, even little (elevated) Bono is all excited.
Not all are friendly though, the National Front are there shouting their hateful racist bullshite. Then the unthinkable happens, the protectors nightmare; Ali goes walkabout and heads straight for the heckling skinheads! Fearing the worst, his protectors try to get to him, to take him to safety, but then the strangest thing happens …..

His hero now safe, Duffy goes home to Coronation Road where a nasty shock awaits. His lovely Beth, she of the questionable taste in music, but with the razor sharp wit, tells Duffy she is leaving in the morning. He didn't see that coming! He had thought that something which had begun as a temporary arrangement had settled nicely into something more permanent.
Work is an immediate distraction though, Duffy is called out to investigate a petty offence, a wallet stolen from an hotel room, it only contained twenty pounds so hardly called for the attention of an inspector. However, the complainant is a foreign business man , the city needs his investment money, Duffy is told sort it. During his investigation at the hotel Duffy meets up with Financial Times reporter Lily Bigelow, she is there to report on the Finnish business dealings. Hearing the activity she turns up, notebook at the ready, hoping for a story.

Lily is found dead, seemingly she jumped from the Carrickfergus castle. Duffy and his surreptitiously irreverent young sidekick, Lawson, attend. Cause of death appears to be suicide but this changes, not only does Duffy have a murder to solve, it is a Locked Room Murder!
When Lily’s missing notebook is found they discover that she was following up on a tip-off about a potential sex scandal, a well known TV celebrity is involved and gets a visit from the RUC. In fact their investigations require a bit of world travel, stretching the budget to its limits, much to the ire of Dalziel the budget man (pronounced differently to the Dalziel of the Dalziel and Pascoe TV series, who likes to be called “Dee-al”).
Young Alexander Lawson gets a well deserved prominence in this book, I love his wit, and please don’t let anything happen to Crabbie, (McCrabben) my favourite character,

This book is a little different to the others in the series, Duffy seems to be less angst ridden, less tortured by his thoughts, he is still drinking, still toking, but maybe not in such a desperate manner. He seems a little calmer, that is until his Beemer gets nicked, then he gets mad “call Interpol!”.
Luckily a good deed is repaid and his beloved Beemer is returned safe and sound.
As usual, Adrian McKinty gives his readers top value for money with a book filled to bursting with sheer good reading.

Narrator
What can I say about Gerard Doyle that I haven’t said before, there comes a point when the use of too many superlatives sounds a bit ridiculous. Suffice to say he is a magnificent narrator; top of the line; best in the biz; storyteller extraordinaire, well, you catch my drift! …..
This audiobook is my own copy.
Authors Website
To read my review of the first in series The Cold Cold Ground click here
To listen to a sample or purchase: Audible Australia
Audible U.S.
Audible U.K.

Two for the Money: Harry Starke: Book 2

Friday, 29 April 2016

Written by: Blair Howard
Narrated by: Tom Lennon
Length: 8 hrs and 29 mins
Series: Harry Starke, Book 2
Unabridged Audiobook
Release Date:01-15-16
Publisher: Blair Howard
5 STAR REVIEW
Publishers Summary
Who killed Tom Sattler? Who stole $350 million from New Vision Strategic Investments? It's up to Harry Starke to figure it out.
The call came on a Tuesday evening in the middle of August at around 9:30. It was from an old school friend that Harry Starke hadn't heard from in almost five years, and he hadn't thought about him in almost as long. Tom Sattler wanted to meet with Harry urgently, and it wouldn't wait until morning. When Harry arrived at Sattler's luxury home less than an hour later, he found him dead, lying in a pool of blood, a single gunshot wound to the head, and .22 revolver lying close to his hand.
Suicide? If he was going to do that, why the hell did he call me?
The search for an answer to that question starts Harry on a wide-ranging investigation that involves murder, corruption, organized crime, and deception.
My Review
Poor Harry, talk about be caught in suspicious circumstances, how could he have foreseen that a phone call from someone he hadn't seen in years would land him in such a precarious situation? There he is, in the house of his long ago friend Tom, problem is, Tom is very dead, along come the police and the tale begins.
Lieutenant Kate Gazzara and Harry Starke are old friends, well, they were once, in fact for years they were very close until a certain incident involving another woman put paid to that. However, Kate and Harry continue to occasionally work together. Harry, an ex police officer now works as a private investigator, Kate takes advantage of the fact that Harry can do things that she, as an officer of the law, would get fired for if she were to do them. Maybe not ethical, but their system works, and Kate is usually there to help extricate Harry from the troubles arising from his methods.
Harry needs all his wiley ways to solve this one, it's a real humdinger of a twisty tale and I reckon the most experienced of armchair sleuths would be hard put to solve this one. For a start, there are just so many possible suspects, but slowly Harry and his team whittle them down until they get to the bottom of it. Have to say, it's a really interesting outcome!
I'm not sure why I like Harry so much, he's like the iron fist in a kid glove, smooth, suave and polished, but underneath it all he really is as hard as nails. He can say the most dreadful things yet make them sound like a compliment, he doesn't hold back on dishing out the physical punishment either, and because he seems such a charming character, the violence does come as a bit of a shock.
Harry loves women, he does seem a little weak in the presence of a beautiful female, he just knows he ought to say no but, somehow, talks himself into doing just the opposite.
This book, like the first, is full of interesting characters and their personalities are well written making the reader feel involved with them, they stay in your head long after the story has finished. This was a great read, I enjoyed it every bit as much as Book One
Narrator
There could not be a more perfect narrator for Harry Starke than Tom Lennon, I can't fault his performance. He captures Harrys charm, yet when Harry is at his most thuggish and threatening, Tom makes these threats sound like a verbal caress, cleverly insinuating that there is a deeper and more frightening aspect to Harrys character. This in turn adds adds an extra dimension of interest to the story made possible only through an outstanding narration
This audiobook was provided by the author, narrator or publisher in return for an honest review.

Torch Ginger

Friday, 4 March 2016

Written by: Toby Neil

Narrated: by Sara Malia Hatfield

Length: 9 hours 6 minutes

Series: Lei Crime Book 2

Unabridged Audiobook

Published by Audible Studios

Release date: 11/11/14

Available from Audible

5 STAR REVIEW

Publishers Summary

If J.D. Robb's In Death series went on location with Kaui Hart Hemmings's The Descendants, you'd have Toby Neal's Torch Ginger.

The island of Kaua'i is remote jungle, golden beaches, and ancient culture - but transients are disappearing in paradise, and only Detective Lei Texeira notices. Lei transfers to the island of Kaua'i, where she uncovers a pattern of disappearances that may be related to a bizarre cult - or is it just one madman at work? In Lei's world, everyone is guilty until proven innocent. In the midst of the biggest case sleepy Kaua'i has ever seen, Lei must also untangle the mysteries of her heart and discover who she loves.

My Review

I didn't read the first in the series, "Blood Orchids" but there is enough back story in "Torch Ginger" to ensure the reader doesn't feel bewildered by how and why Lei finds herself now working on Kaua'i.

Lei is the new girl, low in the pecking order and as such, gets all the boring jobs. She is working hard to fit in but after only two months on an island described as "a jungle paradise of secretive people and strange spiritual forces" Lei is finding life to be "slow and boring".

It's while plodding her way through one of her dull cases that Lei is asked to talk to Kelly Waterson, Kelly reports her boyfriend Jay as missing. It has only been 24 hours since she last spoke to him by 'phone, but the circumstances catch Leis attention. When a worried Kelly flew in and visited Pine Trees, the unofficial camp site, she discovered Jays belongings dumped in the rubbish bin. His wallet still held his credit cards and also some strange origami shapes, three stones were left on his shoe.

Now the story really begins! During the course of her investigation she meets many strange and intriguing characters and she becomes convinced that the disappearances aren't merely people who have simply taken themselves off the grid. Getting others to take her convictions seriously is a hard task.

There are so many threads to this story, yet they are woven skilfully to produce a story that is difficult to put down. The characters are all so well described that they seem totally believable, even the more way out types.

Mystery and intrigue abound, there is, in some characters, a sense of other worldliness which is at odds with Leis own world view.

I thought the reunion of Lei and her father beautifully written, his gentleness and his love for his daughter so sensitively described.

I thoroughly enjoyed this book and would recommend it to anyone who loves a mystery set in a lush and exotic location and with many intriguing extras. I for one shall be reading more of Toby Neil's work.

Narrator

This is the first book I have listened to narrated by Sara Malia Hatfield, and what a wonderful voice she has. Sara has all the attributes of a good narrator, but, for this book, it took a special person to pull it off. Born and raised in Hawaii, she was the perfect choice to perform those subtle differences in accents. The more I listened the more fascinated I became by both her voice and the pidgin speak, just wonderful! I look forward to more.

Just a word about the Audible sample, should you listen to it, it in no way does justice to the audiobook, for some reason, the sample seems of lesser quality.

This audiobook was provided, without condition, by the representative of the author.

The Next Elvis. Sun Records

Wednesday, 24 February 2016

Written by: Barbara Barnes Sims
Narrated by: Lee Ann Howlett
Length: 6 hrs and 41 mins
Unabridged Audiobook
Release Date:06-29-15
Publisher: University Press Audiobooks
An American institution, Sun Records has a history with many chapters: its Memphis origins with visionary Sam Phillips, the breakthrough recordings of Elvis Presley, and the studio's immense influence on the sound of popular music. But behind the company's chart toppers and legendary musicians there exists another story, told by Barbara Barnes Sims. In the male-dominated workforce of the 1950s, 24-year-old Sims found herself thriving in the demanding roles of publicist and sales promotion coordinator at Sun Records. Sims's job placed her in the studio with Johnny Cash, Roy Orbison, Jerry Lee Lewis, Charlie Rich, Carl Perkins, and other Sun entertainers, as well as the unforgettable Phillips, whose work made the music that defined an era. Her disarming narrative ranges from descriptions of a disgraced Jerry Lee Lewis to the remarkable impact and tragic fall of DJ Daddy-O Dewey to the frenzied Memphis homecoming of Elvis after his military service. Collectively, these vignettes offer a rare and intimate look at the people, the city, and the studio that permanently shifted the trajectory of rock 'n' roll. ©2014 Barbara Barnes Sims (P)2015 Redwood Audiobooks
Review
A woman working at an influential level in the music business, Sun Records no less, and in the 50s! Just the seeing names of the stars was enough to attract me to this book. Sadly though, what could have been an exciting read turned out to be a tad disappointing.
All the information I wanted is there, but it reads like a rather boring history, which is great if that's all you want. I didn't get any sense of the vibe of those times, I had wanted to live it through the authors retelling, but that just didn't happen for me.
To summarise: Excellent source of historical detail but a very dry account of an interesting time in the popular music industry. Disappointing.
Narrator
Lee Ann Howlett did a darned good job considering the somewhat emotionless and dry story she had to relate, I doubt anyone's ability to make this sound interesting. Good job Lee Ann!
This audiobook was provided by the narrator. In return, this is my honest review

True Crime: The Wicked West of Cromwell Street

Thursday, 11 February 2016

Written by: Jack Smith

Narrated by: John N Gully

Length: 1 hr and 47 mins

Unabridged Audiobook

Release Date:12-28-15

Publisher: Kemah Bay Marketing LLC

Genre: True Crime,

Audible

5 STARS

Publishers Summary

What Fred and Rose West did for decades before getting caught in their house on 25 Cromwell Street, nicknamed the "House of Horrors", goes beyond anything anyone could ever imagine....

As a society we are fascinated by murder. It is a constant theme throughout much of our media, and many news outlets will prioritize a murderous story, knowing that it will enthrall audiences. There is something about those who decide to take a life that makes them so incredibly interesting to the rest of us.

While many of the most famous murderers are known across the world, there are those whose crimes are relatively less known. One of the strangest stories involves the married couple Fred and Rose West. Together they killed. Up until the time they were caught, they engaged in a string of murders, each motivated by hate, jealousy, passion, and a fundamental lack of morals.

In this audiobook, we will go in depth and learn about the history of the murderers. We will examine Fred and Rose's early lives, their relationship, and their personalities and will ultimately try to discover what it was that drove them to become two of the most notorious killers in the history of the British Isles. Though their crimes made front-page news at the time, few people outside of the country know the extent of their criminality. In this book we will learn exactly what made their killings so infamous.

For those who are in any way interested in the depths of human morality, the Wests represent some of the most depraved and sadistic murderers ever to have lived. Not only did they prey on unsuspecting young girls, but their attentions were even turned toward their own daughters. In a case involving kidnap, rape, and murder, Fred and Rose went beyond the realms of what many of us consider possible as people. Listen to learn exactly what drove Fred and Rose West to become two of history's greatest monsters.

©2015 Jack Smith (P)2015 Jack Smith and Maplewood Publishing

My Review

This is True Crime and as such, is a very difficult listen. That two people could inflict such unutterable pain, terror and degradation upon their victims before eventually murdering them is just beyond comprehension.

I well remember the impact this had on people when every day yet another body would be found, every day a new atrocity exposed, it seemed endless.

This is a short account, but I thought the book to be well written, it's a comprehensive review of all the components of the case, the life stories of those two flawed characters, how they met and how their deviant lives developed. Of course, there's nothing new, but how can there be? It's history now, and for those interested, here are all the facts brought together. I appreciate how the author sticks to what has been reported, no amateur psychological profiling, and no embellishments. I'm more accustomed to reading and reviewing fiction, but in my opinion, within its genre, this deserves 5 stars, but be warned, it's not for the faint hearted.

Narrator

John N. Gully narrated this awful story in the only acceptable way, and that is by using a reporter style, It would not be possible to listen to the evil activities and the suffering of real victims if the narration were infused with emotion. Excellent job.

Audiobook provided by narrator in exchange for an honest review

Elective Procedures: Elle Harrison

Monday, 18 January 2016

Written by: Merry Jones
Narrated by: Cindy Piller
Length: 9 hrs and 30 mins
Unabridged Audiobook

Release Date:10-22-15

Publisher: Oceanview Publishing

Audible

3 Star Review

Publishers Summary

Elle Harrison is back! She and her pals Jen, Becky, and Susan travel to Mexico where Jen has arranged cosmetic surgery, after which she will recover in a plush hotel suite. But more is going on at the hotel than tummy tucks. Soon after they arrive, Elle sees the woman in the suite next door fall from her sixth floor balcony. When the room is later occupied by another patient, Elle finds her brutally mutilated body on that same balcony. Police question Elle as the last person to see these women alive. Their doctor also takes an interest in Elle; a woman staying at the hotel asks Elle to help her fend off a creepy stalker; a veiled woman sneaks into Elle's suite at night; and her late husband, Charlie, reappears (or Elle imagines that he does) when Elle gets pushed under water in the ocean and nearly drowns. As dangers swirl and intensify, Elle is forced to face her unresolved issues with Charlie, even as she races to find the connections between killings before more patients - including Jen - can be murdered. And before she herself becomes prey.

©2014 Merry Jones (P)2015 Oceanview Publishing

My Review

The story begins in Mexico where we discover Elle in a very dangerous, perilous predicament, we then flash back to several days prior to the trip, Becky and Elle are on their way to a girls night out, Becky has the hankering to consult with a fortune teller who tells her she is about to meet her special man. Against her better judgement, Elle was persuaded to also have a reading where she was given a strange but vague forecast:

"If you are wise, you will protect yourself", Elle immediately assumes the fortune teller is referring to the dead.
"You are stronger than you think, this is why they come to you"

Back to Mexico, where, as the blurb tells us, Jen has undergone her plastic surgery, despite having a private nurse to attend her, she constantly calls upon her friends to pander to her real and imagined needs. Jen is a bit of a fool, or else her surgeon omitted to gain an informed consent because she seems to have had no idea that undergoing invasive surgery, by its very nature, involves a degree of post operative discomfort. She does not suffer it well and there are some amusing passages involving her petulant demands and the begrudging responses of her friends!

The scenario set, the story then takes us back to the opening passage of the book, which, as it turns out, is Elles' attempt to save the life of the female stranger in the adjoining hotel room, a failed attempt. The woman's death quickly turns in to a police inquiry, where Elles explanation of the sequence of events is viewed as being an unlikely story by the investigating officer. Many strange occurrences follow, she can't help but recall the fortune tellers prediction. Sometimes it seems easy to believe that Elle is, indeed, quite mad, she has conversations with her dead ex husband (who is, as it happens, quite the voice of reason). She reports some strange goings on, both to her friends and to the police,which are always disproved or discredited to the point where even she wonders what is real.

Amidst all the mystery, Elle finds herself attracted to a very handsome fella, Jens' surgeon, and he gives every indication that she is very special to him, yet Elles' lack of self esteem prevents her from believing his feelings are genuine. Meanwhile, Becky, having found her dream man is getting on everyone's nerves by vacillating between her euphoria and her fears of losing him.

This story has many layers, many threads, A little humour, a nod to the paranormal, romance, moments of trepidation and, of course, mystery. I didn't, however, feel much affinity for Elle, some of her actions seemed out of sync with her character as I understood it. She certainly made some unexpected, not to say slightly improbable moves, to be truthful, I'm not sure I really liked her all that much. The group of girls worked well I thought, with their differing characteristics and, despite their little squabbles, all came through for each other, just as friends do. I'd be happy to read more of their adventures.

Narrator

Read by Cindy Pillar who I have previously had the pleasure of listening to. I said "read" but Cindy is more than a reader, she knows how to tell a tale and, as such, does any author the huge favour of making the best of the characters. She has a pleasing, easy to listen to voice, excellent characterisations, I particularly enjoyed our petulant patient, Jen. Cindy does a good creepy and chilling too!

This audiobook was provided by the publisher, author or narrator in return for an honest review

Think of a Number Dave Gurney Book 1

Wednesday, 13 January 2016

Written by: John Verdon
Narrated by: George Newbern
Length: 13 hrs and 30 mins
Series: Dave Gurney, Book 1
Unabridged Audiobook
Release Date:07-06-10
Publisher: Random House Audio
Available from Audible
2 STAR REVIEW
Publishers Summary
An extraordinary fiction debut, Think of a Number is an exquisitely plotted novel of suspense that grows relentlessly darker and more frightening as its pace accelerates, forcing its deeply troubled characters to moments of startling self-revelation. Arriving in the mail over a period of weeks are taunting letters that end with a simple declaration: “Think of any number…picture it…now see how well I know your secrets.” Amazingly, those who comply find that the letter writer has predicted their random choice exactly.
For Dave Gurney, just retired as the NYPD’s top homicide investigator and forging a new life with his wife, Madeleine, in upstate New York, the letters are oddities that begin as a diverting puzzle but quickly ignite a massive serial murder investigation. What police are confronted with is a completely baffling killer, one who is fond of rhymes filled with threats and warnings, whose attention to detail is unprecedented, and who has an uncanny knack for disappearing into thin air. Even more disturbing, the scale of his ambition seems to widen as events unfold. Brought in as an investigative consultant, Dave Gurney soon accomplishes deductive breakthroughs that leave local police in awe. Yet, even as he matches wits with his seemingly clairvoyant opponent, Gurney’s tragedy-marred past rises up to haunt him, his marriage approaches a dangerous precipice, and finally, a dark, cold fear builds that he’s met an adversary who can’t be stopped.
In the end, fighting to keep his bearings amid a whirlwind of menace and destruction, Gurney sees the truth of what he’s become – what we all become when guilty memories fester – and how his wife Madeleine’s clear-eyed advice may be the only answer that makes sense.
©2005 John Verdon (P)2010 Random House
My Review
Like many Audible members with just one credit per month to spend, I choose my books carefully. This book not only has a plethora of 5 star reader reviews but has also received fulsome praise from some big name authors, here are some excerpts:

"Rarely have I read a debut novel that has gripped me as this one has from the first page to the last" .... Nelson De Mille

"John Verdon's Think of a Number is simply one of the best thrillers I've read in a lifetime of thriller reading ... eloquent, heart- rending, deeply suspenseful on many levels, and relentlessly intelligent" .... John Lescroart.

"Verdon's protagonist Dave Gurney is one for the ages, and readers everywhere will surely clamour to see this man again" .... David Baldacci.

(See full comments on the Audible page)
Yet another temptation to choose this book was the fact that it is the first in a series, and I'm always on the lookout for a good mystery series. For all that, it soon became clear that this book was not meant for me, I didn't much care for the story. It started off well enough and I was certainly grabbed by the "think of a number" conundrum, but as I listened my interest waned, and here's why: The characters, none of them seemed to be fully developed, I neither got to know or found a connection with anyone sufficient enough to either like or dislike them. Madeleine, Dave Gurneys' wife for example, who was to contribute much to the solving of the case, remained in the shadowy background having just a few sentences here and there. We were given hints of her story but I would have liked to have known more about her.
Dave, throughout the story is touted by his past colleagues as having been a top notch detective, a genius at his work, which is why I couldn't understand why it took him so very long to solve the mysteries, (because even I could) indeed, there was a huge clue early on, which had it not been missed, would have led straight to the perpetrator. It was from this point on that the story lost all credulity for me. In fact it was his wife who provided him with the wherewithal to solve these mysteries. Madeleine is, in my opinion the genius in that marraige. Parts of this story are greatly detailed, including as it does a complete psychological lecture and a few meetings which, as in real life, (therefore quite realistic) did drag on a bit thereby slowing the flow. I really wanted less talk and more action.This is a book with wonderful reviews and critical acclaim, and it's not easy for a reviewer to write of ones dissatisfaction with such a lauded work. Nevertheless, I do believe that this book is a good example of that which pleases many people doesn't please all.

Narrator
Narrated by George Newburn who has a pleasant voice but does use a similar pitch and tone for all, this made character differentiation a little hard. I found the narration somewhat inconsistent in that for most of the time he sounded a tad disinterested, he did though, show a bit of enthusiasm at times.
This is my own copy of Think of a Number purchased from Audible US

The Casanova Killer

Thursday, 31 December 2015

Written by Jack Smith

Narrated by John N. Gully

Length: 1 hour 29 minutes

Unabridged Audiobook

Released 2/11/15

Published by Kemah Bay Marketing LLC

Available from Audible

Publishers Summary

"Paul John Knowles, nicknamed the Casanova Killer, went on a four-month killing spree in 1974. He still remains one of the lesser known serial killers of his generation. Learn all about this psychopath who wanted fame before his life ended.

November 7, 1974

As she entered her home in Milledgeville, Georgia, all Ellen Carr probably had on her mind was going to bed. She was a registered nurse who worked a night shift, and although her small family welcomed the money, the job was a demanding one.

Inside, the house was unnaturally quiet. She found that odd. Her husband, 45-year-old businessman Carswell Carr, and 15-year-old daughter, Amanda, usually greeted her when she came home from the hospital.

That wasn't the only sign that something was seriously amiss. As an investigator later put it, "The [place] looked as if it had been attacked by an animal." Mirrors were smashed. Slashed furniture lay everywhere, some of it in pieces. Books from the bookshelves littered the floor.

Had they been robbed? Where were Carswell and Mandy? Heart pounding, Mrs. Carr ran from room to room, calling out. Minutes later, she was back outside, screaming hysterically. Neighbors called the police to what was obviously the scene of gruesome double ........

My Review

At around 1/12 hours in length this is obviously not an in-depth study of these horrendous murders, nor does it delve deeply into the possible causes of psychopathy. What is though is an almost detached rendering of the basic facts. Facts which are quite shocking to read or to listen to. I'm surprised that I had no prior knowledge of this killer who, despite his terrible acts of violence, somehow escaped the notoriety of other serial killers.

I mostly read crime fiction and, whilst listening to this I realised I had to change my listening mode, I had to stop allowing this information to merely flow through my head, bypassing the deeper thought processes, it dawned on me: this stuff is real! A human being actually did this to another human being! Once this thought sinks in, well, that's when it becomes a little harrowing, especially so when this man, this fellow member of the human race, committed these crimes for his own pleasure. Best not to attempt to understand why.

I like the way this book is written, it gives us the bare facts, dig deeper if you will.

Narrator

Narrated by John N. Gully, and what a darned good job he made of it too. He has a pleasant, easy to listen to and clear voice and related this account of the crimes of Paul John Knowles in exactly the right manner.

It would have been easy to spoil the narration by using a news reporter or advertising voiceover style, I'm so pleased he avoided this through his use of a professional and dignified approach

Silence: The Faces of Evil (prequel)

Monday, 30 November 2015

Written by: Debra Webb

Narrated by: Alicia Bordon

Length: 2 hrs and 12 mins

Unabridged Audiobook

Release Date:07-21-15

Publisher: WebbWorks, LLC

Available from Audible

Publishers Summary

"Ten years ago... Special Agent Jess Harris has closed another tough case, and now she's determined to make it home to spend Christmas with her only family, her sister. Jess needs a break, and taking it far away from work is the only way to keep her mind off the many faces of evil waiting in the stack of case files on her desk. Running into the past wasn't part of the plan...

Daniel Burnett was Jess' first love. She'd fallen hard for him in high school. Together they'd gone off to college with big dreams. But not all dreams come true. Jess hasn't seen Dan in ten years when they run into each other on Christmas Eve night...yet no force on Earth can keep them apart."

My Review

"Silence" is the prequel to Debra Webbs "The Faces of Evil" series featuring Special Agent Jess Harris and Daniel Burnett. Readers of the series say that it's good to now have the full story of their early history together as the books only provide a few brief details.

Jess hasn't been home to Birmingham to visit her sister in years, now she has just wrapped a case that has made her realise just how important her family are to her, so she sets off home for Christmas.

I liked how the story is told, each chapter alternates between Jess' latest case and her trip and arrival home.

With this being such a short story I'm not going to reveal much here, too difficult to avoid spoilers, however, it's a really good dark mystery, quite engrossing. Although not your usual feel good cosy warm and fuzzy Christmas story, there are some lovely heartwarming moments. I could have done without the sex scene really, too explicit for my taste but I am a bit prudish!

Now, all you Americans will know exactly what Publix is, but we don't have them here in Australia or the U.K., and even though it does later become obvious that it's a supermarket, it would be nice if all authors gave a nod to their overseas readers.

What did surprise me though was hearing Jess's accent, as she comes from Birmingham, I was expecting it to be Southern!

Narrator

Narrated by Alicia Bordon who did a great job, I love it when a narrator is easy to listen to, when the story just flows without distraction.

Happy to listen to more of this narrators work.

Broken Promise

Wednesday, 12 August 2015

Written by: Linwood Barclay

Narrated by: Quincy Dunn Baker, Brian O'Neill

Length: 13 hrs and 4 mins

Unabridged Audiobook

Release Date:07-28-15

Publisher: Orion Publishing Group

Audible.com

3 Star Review

Publishers Summary

The morning it all started, newspaper reporter David Harwood had plenty to worry about. A single parent with no job, forced to return with his young son to the small town of Promise Falls to live with his parents, the future wasn't looking too rosy.

So when his mother asked him to look in on his cousin Marla, who was still not quite right after losing her baby, it was almost a relief to put the disaster his own life had become to one side. The relief wouldn't last long.

When he gets to Marla's house he's disturbed to find a smear of blood on the front door. He's even more disturbed to find Marla nursing a baby, a baby she claims was delivered to her 'by an angel.' And when, soon after, a woman's body is discovered across town, stabbed to death, with her own baby missing, it looks as if Marla has done something truly terrible.

But while the evidence seems overwhelming, David just can't believe that his cousin is a murderer. In which case, who did kill Rosemary Gaynor? And why did they then take her baby and give it to Marla?

With the police convinced they have an open and shut case, it's up to David to find out what really happened, but he soon discovers that the truth could be even more disturbing....

©2015 Linwood Barclay (P)2015 Recorded Books LLC

My Review

This is the first in a series, apparently however there is a previous book "Never Look Back" which though not part of this series, did provide some back story on the town of Promise Falls and its inhabitants.

David, having lost his wife some 5 years ago, found the life of a single parent too hard, he had little time to spend with his son Ethan. This was the reason for his return to his home town, he and Ethan moved in with David's parents as a temporary arrangement. Unfortunately on the day he started his new job at the local newspaper, it closed down. Now, with time on his hands, he became involved with attempting to prove his cousin Marla innocent of the terrible crime described in the publishers summary.

Marlas story, albeit the main one, was just one of so many, poor Detective Duckworth couldn't as much as eat another doughnut before some other crime came to his attention. Too many crimes for me, I often lost my way when yet something else took away from the main story line. These side stories did eventually link to the whole, much seemed extraneous and I kept losing track of just where all these characters meshed.

However, it is, as mentioned, the first in a series, so I suppose much of the content is setting the back stories for future books. The ending is a cliffhanger, so for those many, many readers who loved this book, the next in series is a certain purchase.

Narrators

Narrated by Quincy Dunn-Baker (David) and Brian O'Neill, two narrators that I've not previously had the pleasure of listening to prior to this book. Quincy Dunn-Baker has the smoother more polished voice, he read David just perfectly. The role of David called for many emotions, but no overacting here, just great story telling. Brian O'Neill has a slightly rougher voice, which I enjoyed, he lacks none of the talents of a good narrator, and again, no over dramatising, simply good story telling.

I did find the narration slow and had to listen at 1.25 to obtain normal speed. This, I believe is a production issue and is not related to the narration itself.

This audiobook is my own copy

Ring of Lies. Victoria Howard

Monday, 29 June 2015

Author Victoria Howard

Narrated by: Michelle Ford

Length: 8 hrs and 31 mins

Unabridged Audiobook

Release Date:12-23-13

Publisher: BookRite Books

Available from Audible.com

3 STAR REVIEW

Publishers Summary

When English accountant Daniel Elliott dies in a car accident one rainy night, his widow, Grace, is overcome with grief... and panic. Daniel was controlling and their marriage loveless, but he always took care of the sheltered Grace. Or so she thought. She soon discovers Daniel kept secrets: an alias, mob ties, a list of numbers, a mysterious beach house in Florida... and a girlfriend who looks like Grace.
Swallowing her fear, she flies to Miami to claim the house Daniel left her. But the price of her curiosity is peril. Underworld figures stalk her. The other woman has left a damning trail of evidence pointing her way. And handsome, troubled FBI agent Jack West has crossed precarious paths with Grace before. He could be her savior or her damnation. All she knows for certain is that she longs to be in his arms.
With little to go on and danger at every turn, Grace must depend on Jack to help her navigate the criminal world of south Florida, and find the truth behind the Ring of Lies.
©2010 Victoria Howard (P)2013 Victoria Howard
My Review
I don't usually go for the Romance genre, but the Suspense tag caught my attention and it's good to read something different. The story starts off quite well; Grace is in the throes of shock and grief over her husbands fatal car accident, and, as the blurb states, she is finding out bit by bit that her husband was not the person she thought she knew. Seemingly abandoned by her sister and with no one to help, her thoughts turn to Jack, an American whom she met during his trip to the UK, they'd had a minor flirtation but nothing more. The real adventure begins when Grace decides to go to Florida to try to unravel a few mysteries, she seeks out and meets up again with Jack, she needs his help, fortuitously, he is an FBI agent.
I really didn't know how to rate this book as despite really enjoying the story I was too irritated by Graces' intensely annoying personality to become fully engaged. She would have a panic attack at the drop of a hat - and she kept having them! How Jack put up with her hysterics I don't know, especially when they endangered life and limb. Also, I couldn't understand her thinking processes, at one point they are hiding out in the marshes from a would be killer, Grace is being lacerated by sawgrass, a snake crawls over her leg and the 'gators are out there, so, at risk of discovery, she decides to have a panic attack. Jack manages to control her, just! Yet, in this state of mental anguish and physical discomfort she decides that sex might be a good idea - remember, the killer is still out there! Weird, plain weird, I just didn't get along with her at all. Anyway, as the mystery begins to unravel slowly, we find out who the other woman is in Daniel Elliot's life and then, finally, we discover his secret life.
Jack has a story to tell too, which lends some added interest to the tale, he has his troubles, in fact he has a whole lot more than he thought but he comes through. I would have liked a few more clues about Daniels dirty deeds a bit earlier in the story, it all came out in a bit of a rush at the end. All in all, a pleasant light story, ideal for beach reading, but silly Grace spoiled it for me.
Narrator
I enjoyed Michelle Fords narration, I admire the way she portrayed Graces' hysterics without being over the top dramatic. Her skilled characterisation and gender changes are excellent and well differentiated and she sure knows how to portray a bitch! I was never in any doubt about who was who in the story. Lovely voice with good pace and timing, an all round quality recording.
This audiobook was provided by the author at no cost in exchange for an unbiased review courtesy of AudiobookBlast dot com.

The Sound of Glass

Monday, 15 June 2015

Written by: Karen White
Narrated by: Therese Plummer
and Susan Bennett
Length: 14 hrs and 41 mins
Unabridged Audiobook

Release Date:05-12-15

Publisher: Recorded Books

Available from Audible.com

5 STAR REVIEW
Publishers Summary

The New York Times best-selling author of A Long Time Gone now explores a Southern family's buried history, which will change the life of the woman who unearths it secret by shattering secret.
It has been two years since the death of Merritt Heyward's husband, Cal, when she receives unexpected news - Cal's family home in Beaufort, South Carolina, bequeathed by Cal's reclusive grandmother, now belongs to Merritt. Charting the course of an uncertain life - and feeling guilt from her husband's tragic death - Merritt travels from her home in Maine to Beaufort, where the secrets of Cal's unspoken-of past reside among the pluff mud and jasmine of the ancestral Heyward home on the Bluff. This unknown legacy, now Merritt's, will change and define her as she navigates her new life - a new life complicated by the arrival of her too-young stepmother and 10-year-old half brother.
Soon, in this house of strangers, Merritt is forced into unraveling the Heyward family past as she faces her own fears and finds the healing she needs in the salt air of the Low Country.
©2015 Harley House Books, LLC (P)2015 Recorded Books
My Review
It actually took a few chapters before the book hooked me, as to be honest, I did find the early part of the story a little confusing and I had to re listen so as to sort out who was who. That done, I didn't look back and was soon immersed in this intriguing tale of Merritt and the family who were strangers to her. She was barely in the door of her new home when who should arrive on her doorstep but her stepmother Loralee with her ten year old son Owen, Merritts half brother. Loralee, the young, beautiful ex flight attendant with the big hair, who never faced the world without her lipstick and a big smile. This was the woman whose marraige to Merritts' father had been the cause of the deep rift between them, the woman Merritt dismissed as trailer trash, an airhead out for what she could get. Loralee and Owen had come to stay awhile. Much as she craved solitude, Merritt felt she could hardly refuse so grudgingly permitted them to stay, making it clear that it was only to be for a short while.
Merrit had also been unaware of the existence of a brother in law, Gibbes, he hadn't lived in the old house for years and wanted to retrieve a few of his boyhood possessions. Gibbes proved to be a far different man than Cal, his brother and Merritts late husband. This is how the relationships between the four of them began, of Merritts growing love for her nerdy little brother and her realisation that, after all, they are both grieving for the same daddy. Of her unquestioning acceptance of his attempts to become "cool" when he announces that he now wants to be known as Rocky, not Owen. Of how Gibbes proves himself to be so different to his abusive troubled brother, and of how Merritt grudgingly comes to accept Loralee as she truly is. Then, of course, there is the mystery and suspense! Exactly what secrets does that old attic hold? Well, you must read the book to discover how the mysteries are unravelled and of how the relationships develop.
I just love a good story, one where part of me wants to rush on to find out what comes next, but yet another part of me doesn't want it to end because I'm enjoying it too much and author Karen White knows exactly how to write such a story. Mystery, intrigue, pathos, romance, it's all here, just a warning though, this book does speak of spousal abuse, something which the publishers summary omits to mention, so should you find the subject to be distressing, be warned. In summary, this is beautifully and sensitively written and is a thoroughly enjoyable read.
Narrators
Narrated by Susan Bennett and Therese Pummer who both did a wonderful job, so easy to listen to with their lovely voices. Both masters of pace and timing, I'm not American, so am not qualified to judge American accents, but they sounded really good to me. I thought both age and gender changes were totally believable, I had no trouble in differentiating the characters. I'm not sure why two narrators were thought to be necessary though, as both seemed more than capable of telling the whole story as a solo performance, nevertheless, this audiobook is a quality production.

I purchased this audiobook from Audible.com, this review is my honest opinion.

West Seattle Blues

Saturday, 30 May 2015

Written by: Chris Nickson
Narrated by: Lorelei King
Length: 6 hrs and 23 mins
Unabridged Audiobook

Release Date:30/06/2014

Publisher: Creative Content Ltd

Available from Audible.com.au

4 STAR REVIEW

Publishers Summary
It’s 1994 - and in West Seattle, new mom Laura Benton is busy juggling work as a freelance music journalist with the constant demands of a young baby. Life is crazy enough, but it takes a darker turn when she interviews Carson Mack, a down-on-his-luck country music star who's looking to make a comeback. Carson is also desperate to make amends to the family he left behind years before and Laura finds herself sucked into helping him trace his long lost son. It's a search that quickly becomes terrifying - and deadly - as family secrets are uncovered and the threats to Laura and her family grow
My Review
This is the second Laura Benton Book, the first, Emerald City, set in 1988 introduced us to Laura, a music journalist living the life with her boyfriend who is a struggling musician.
It's now 1994 and Laura is married with a young baby to care for, she is still freelancing as a music journalist but finds it difficult to juggle her work with her responsibilities as a mother. Her husband Dustin is often working away from home leaving Laura to cope on her own.
The book begins with a cold hearted murder, a shooting, but the story really starts when Laura is asked to interview Carson Mack, a faded Country and Western star whose main aim in life now is to track down the son he has never met. He begs Laura to help him, she doesn't want to get involved but he keeps the pressure up until she agrees to just ask a few questions, she swears that she'll do no more than that. Her questioning stirs up trouble for Laura and she determines to leave well alone. Time and again she tells her husband that she has no intention of asking any more questions as she doesn't want to endanger her family or herself.
Well, of course, she does continue, in the meantime, Carson Mack is served up a huge surprise as he prepares for his first performance in years. This is where the tale moves a little faster leading up to an exciting and surprising ending.
I didn't find Laura as interesting as she was pre husband and baby, she's no longer the Rock Chick talking and living music, she doesn't go out and listen to bands, I missed that aspect of her, and I can't understand how she married such a bland sort of chap. There doesn't seem to be much of a spark between them, it's as if Laura has succumbed to domesticity, she is even considering an offer from a music magazine for a permanent job.
If there is a third "Laura" book I think Dustin should be a stay home Daddy, Laura should reclaim her Rock Chick head and talk music which, despite a welcome mention of John Martyn, was a tad lacking in this book.
Still, it's a good read, it has tension and excitement and also a little bit of feel good, there's also a nice surprise at the end, well worth 4 Stars.
Narrator
Narrated by multi award winner Lorelei King, I can never fault her, she just does everything right, all those things that good narrators are expected to do. You know the sort of thing, tone, gender, pace, age and suchlike, of course, there are others with these skills yet few are of the same calibre as Lorelei King. What's the secret of these select few? Don't know, but I do believe that some people are, quite simply, born to be great storytellers.
This audiobook was received from the publisher. This is my honest review

Thursday, 10 August 2017

Monday, 17 April 2017

Wednesday, 21 December 2016

Monday, 15 August 2016

Friday, 29 April 2016

5 STAR REVIEW

Publishers Summary

My Review

Narrator

Friday, 4 March 2016

Wednesday, 24 February 2016

Thursday, 11 February 2016

Monday, 18 January 2016

Wednesday, 13 January 2016

Thursday, 31 December 2015

Monday, 30 November 2015

Wednesday, 12 August 2015

3 Star Review

Publishers Summary

My Review

Narrators

Monday, 29 June 2015

Monday, 15 June 2015

5 STAR REVIEWPublishers Summary

My Review

Narrators

Saturday, 30 May 2015

My Review

Narrator

5 STAR REVIEW
Publishers Summary