March 2023 MBR The Audiobook Shelf

The Audiobook Shelf

The Writer's Room Survival Guide
Niceole Levy, author/reader
Dreamscape Media
1417 Timberwolf Drive, Holland, Ohio, 43528
https://www.dreamscapepublishing.com
9781666626704, $22.99, CD (8 Hours, 26 Minutes)

https://www.amazon.com/Writers-Room-Survival-Guide-Screw/dp/1666626708

Synopsis: Writers' rooms for television shows or film projects can be a heaven or hell, depending on a few things. The best rooms foster inclusive and productive creative flow. The worst create a toxic stew of bad feelings and doubt. Both kinds, and all the ones in between, require basic knowledge of how the room works. These fundamentals are best learned before you go in.

What Niceole Levy provides in her complete and unabridged audio book "The Writer's Room Survival Guide: Don't Screw Up the Lunch Order and Other Keys to a Happy Writers' Room" is a true insider's insightful account of how to make it as a screenwriter working with others in close and confining quarters.

Critique: Professional screenwriter Niceole Levy's ably narrated and impressively informative, complete and unabridged audio book edition of "The Writer's Room Survival Guide: Don't Screw Up the Lunch Order and Other Keys to a Happy Writers' Room" from Dreamscape Media must be considered essential and invaluable for anyone one aspiring to or hoping for a career of writing scripts from television, the movies, or the stage. It should be noted that "The Writer's Room Survival Guide" is also available in a print edition from publisher Michael Wiese Productions (9781615933464, $29.95).

Editorial Note: Niceole Levy (https://niceolelevy.com/about) completed the NBC Writers on the Verge program in 2012 and the CBS Writer's Mentoring Program in 2011. She is also a 2-time graduate of the University of Southern California. A devotee of television, she wrote her first solo original pilot, "Thin Air" during the CBS program. She was a staff writer on NBC's "Ironside" in 2013 and is currently working on two new pilots. In addition, Niceole has completed a variety of projects, including pilots, specs, original plays, and original short stories.

Murder in Chianti
T. A. Williams, author
Simon Mattacks, narrator
Boldwood Books, Ltd.
c/o Ulverscroft Large Print, Inc.
https://www.ulverscroft.com
9781804832332, $87.95, MP3-CD (6 Hours, 45 Minutes)

https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/murder-in-chianti-ta-williams/1142638661

Synopsis: It's a clear case of murder being carried out in broad daylight when millionaire magnate Rex Hunter is found with his head bashed in on the eighth hole of his prestigious golf and country club in beautiful Chianti.

Hunter was rich and successful and the envy of many, so retired DCI Dan Armstrong thinks the case will be a hole in one to solve. But as Dan and his trusty canine sidekick Oscar begin to dig deeper into Hunter's lifestyle, they discover a man despised by many. A renowned womaniser, ruthless boss and heartless family man, it seems no one is particularly sorry to see Hunter dead. And the list of possible suspects is endless.

Despite the murderer covering their tracks, Dan is determined to catch this clever killer, but it seems every new lead brings another dead end. Will this be one case Dan and his canine companion won't solve?

Critique: Brought vividly to life with the exceptional storytelling talents of narrator Simon Mattacks, "Murder in Chianti", the latest 'whoodunit' mystery by accomplished novelist T. A. Williams is a fun 'theatre of the mind' experience and unreservedly recommended for both personal and community library Mystery/Suspens audio book collections.

Editorial Note #1: An extended listing of books by T. A. Williams can be found on a website dedicated to his work at https://www.bookseriesinorder.com/t-a-williams

Editorial Note: Simon Mattacks (https://www.simonmattacks.com) has been doing voice over and narrator work for advertisements, cartoons, corporate videos, video games, and audio books for more than 30 years.

The Trophy Wife
Valerie Keogh, author
Elliot Fitzpatrick, narrator
Boldwood Books Ltd
c/o Ulverscroft Large Print, Inc.
https://www.ulverscroft.com
9781804835616, $103.00, MP3-CD (10 Hours, 40 Minutes)

https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/the-trophy-wife-valerie-keogh/1142835149

Synopsis: His prized possession or his greatest mistake? From the moment I saw Anne, I knew she was perfect for me. Her beauty and her social connections would make my miserable life so much better. It didn't matter that I didn't love her. I would give her the lifestyle she craved, and she would give me the life I deserved. But soon my marriage vows were a noose around my neck. I longed to escape my beautiful, horrible wife. And then I saw her and I knew there was only one way out.

Critique: A genuine suspense thriller of a novel by the impressively talented author Valerie Keogh, "The Trophy Wife" is flawlessly narrated by the exceptional storytelling talents of narrator Elliot Fitzpatrick. The result is a truly memorable experience that will enthrall the listener, this complete and unabridged edition from Boldwood Books is especially recommended for both personal and community library Mystery/Suspense audio book collections.

Editorial Note #2: Valerie Keogh (https://www.boldwoodbooks.com/contributor/valerie-keogh) lives in Wiltshire with her husband and a huge black cat, Fatty Arbuckle. She grew up reading Agatha Christie and initially wrote crime novels -- she now writes psychological thrillers.

Editorial Note #2: Elliot Fitzpatrick (https://tantor.com/narrator/elliot-fitzpatrick.html) studied acting at the Royal Birmingham Conservatoire before going on to appear in theater in London's West End, at Shakespeare's Globe, and with the Rose Theatre Kingston, as well as in international tours across Asia. As an audiobook narrator he has read over fifty titles, including books by Bear Grylls and mountain-climber Nims Purja, and in 2021 was nominated for an Audie for his work on the mystery thriller The Midnight Man by Caroline Mitchell.

The Marriage Season
Jane Dunn
Boldwood Books Ltd
c/o Ulverscroft Large Print, Inc.
https://www.ulverscroft.com
9781804835296, $108.95, MP3-CD (9 Hours, 40 Minutes)

https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/the-marriage-season-jane-dunn/1142938048

Synopsis: In Regency England, marriage is everything. For young widow Sybella Lovatt, the time has come to find a suitable husband for her sister and ward Lucie. Male suitors are scarce near their Wiltshire estate, so the sisters resolve to head to London in time for the Season to begin.

Once ensconced at the Mayfair home of Lady Godley, Lucie's godmother, the whirl of balls, parties and promenades can begin. But the job of finding a husband is fraught with rules and tradition. Jostling for attention are the two lords - the charming and irresistible Freddie Lynwood and the preternaturally handsome Valentine Ravenell, their enigmatic neighbour from Shotten Hall, Mr Brabazon, and the dangerous libertine Lord Rockliffe, with whom the brooding Brabazon is locked in deadly rivalry.

Against the backdrop of glamorous Regency England, Sybella must settle Lucie's future, protect her own reputation, and resist the disreputable rakes determined to seduce the beautiful widow. As the Season ends, will the sisters have found the rarest of things -- a suitable marriage with a love story to match?

Critique: As a author, Jane Dunn is a true master of the Regency Romance genre as documented by her novel "The Marriage Season". Now from Boldwood Books this outstanding example of Regency Romance is now available as a complete and unabridged audio book edition deftly narrated by the vocal storytelling talents of Ruth Redman. A fun 'theatre of the mind' experience from start to finish, "The Marriage Season" is a welcome and recommended addition to personal lists and community library Romance audio book collections.

Editorial Note #1: Jane Dunn *https://www.boldwoodbooks.com/contributor/jane-dunn) is an historian and biographer and the author of seven acclaimed biographies, including Daphne du Maurier and her Sisters and the Sunday Times and NYT bestseller, Elizabeth & Mary: Cousins, Rivals, Queens. She came to Boldwood Books with her first fiction outing with a trilogy of novels set in the Regency period, the first of which is "The Marriage Season",

Editorial Note #2: Ruth Redman (https://erggo.us/en/account/you/RuthRedman) has voice a that is light and warm with a sympathetic tone that is both approachable and calm. She conveys authority and quiet confidence and has an excellent ear for accents. She is also a qualified and experienced actress who works in VoiceOver, Theatre, Film and Television. She even has her own Home studio.

A Brush with Murder
Bailee Abbott, author
Jennifer Jill Araya, narrator
Dreamscape Media
https://www.dreamscapepublishing.com
9781666520453, $59.95, CD (9 Hours, 45 Minutes)

https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/a-brush-with-murder-bailee-abbott/1139850671?

Synopsis: For Chloe Abbington, the transition from fine-art painter in New York City to painting-event business owner in charming Whisper Cove is more than a little jarring. But when poison-pen journalist Fiona Gimble writes a viciously negative review of the newly opened Paint with a View, Chloe learns that critics are the same everywhere. And when she finds Fiona's body behind her shop with a painting knife in her neck, Chloe realizes that this picture-perfect town offers anything but peace and quiet.

Suddenly, bustling Artisan Alley is a crime scene, and Chloe is the prime suspect. Her sister and business partner, Izzie, isn't much help -- she's busy running the shop, and besides, she has secrets of her own. As shrewd Detective Barrett tries to paint her into a corner, Chloe soon finds that Fiona had plenty of enemies.

The Whisper Cove Gazette columnist wielded her pen like a sword, slicing and dicing just about every shop owner in the lakeside town. Chloe sets out to prove that she's been framed for Fiona's murder. But she'd better learn the fine art of detection quickly, before the real killer paints the town red again. Otherwise, she may end up trading in her paint smock for an orange jumpsuit... or a green burial plot!

Critique: As a novelist, author Bailee Abbott is a master of the Cozy Mystery genre. As a narrator, Jennifer Jill Araya is an impressively talented storyteller. Together they bring this complete and unabridged audio book edition of "A Brush With Murder" to life in a true 'theatre of the mind' experience. This complete and unabridged "A Brush With Murder" from Dreamscape Media is an unreservedly recommended addition to personal listing lists and community library Mystery/Suspense audio book collections.

Editorial Note #1: Bailee Abbott (https://crookedlanebooks.com/bailee-abbott) is a retired teacher who now spends her days plotting murder and writing mysteries. She's a member of Sisters in Crime as well as of International Thriller Writers. Bailee lives with her husband and furry friend Max in the quiet suburbs of Green, Ohio. Bailee also writes the Sierra Pines B&B mystery series under the name Kathryn Long.

Editorial Note #2: Jennifer Jill Araya (http://www.jenniferjillaraya.com) is an Audie Award Winner, an Earphones Award Recipient, an American Library Association YALSA Amazing Audiobooks Award Winner, a SOVAS Award Finalist, and a three-time Independent Audiobook Award Finalist, Jennifer has narrated nearly 300 audiobooks for a variety of publishers and producers, including Penguin Random House Audio, Simon & Schuster Audio, HarperAudio, Blackstone Publishing, and Audible Studios. Jennifer also narrates Romance and Erotica titles under the name Isabelle Ruther.

50% Off Murder
Josie Belle, author
Angie Hickman, narrator
Dreamscape Media
https://www.dreamscapepublishing.com
9781690590859, $19.99, CD (7 Hours, 29 Minutes)

https://www.amazon.com/50-Off-Murder-Good-Girls/dp/1690590858

Synopsis: Maggie Gerber (who is one of the founding members of the Good Buy Girls) loves her quiet life in St. Stanley, Virginia. But all that changes when Sam Collins, her old flame, moves back to town as the new sheriff.

On top of that, Claire Freemont, a librarian and the newest member of the Good Buy Girls, starts acting utterly strange. When Maggie goes to visit her the next day at the library, she finds the body of a very dead man. Turns out the man is someone from Claire's past.

As the handsome new sheriff zeroes in on Claire, it's up to Maggie and the rest of the Good Buy Girls to use their bargain-hunting skills to hunt a killer -- all while making sure they don't pay too much in the process!

Critique: Debuting a new Cozy Mystery audio book series 'by author Josie Belle, "50% Off Murder" is deftly narrated by the outstanding vocal performance of Angie Hickman. This complete and unabridged CD edition from Dreamscape Media will have a special appeal to fans of 'whodunnit' mysteries featuring women amateur sleuths and is particularly and especially recommended for both personal reading lists and community library Mystery/Suspense audio book collections.

Editorial Note #1: Josie Belle (https://cozy-mystery.com/Josie-Belle.html) is a pseudonym for Jenn McKinlay, the author of the Library Lover's mysteries and the Cupcake Bakery mysteries.

Editorial Note #2: Angie Hickman (https://tantor.com/narrator/angie-hickman.html) earned her bachelor's degree in secondary English education, and then expanded her passion for words through her work in libraries and bookstores -- going on to bring stories to life through audiobook narration.

A Bias for Murder
Sally Goldenbaum, author
Stephanie Dillard, narrator
Dreamscape Media
https://www.dreamscapepublishing.com
9781662065439, $19.99, CD (6 Hours, 32 Minutes)

https://www.amazon.com/Bias-Murder-Queen-Bees-Quilt/dp/1662065434

Synopsis: Oliver Harrington II was one of the most beloved members of Crestwood's community. Despite being the picture of health at age 52, he died from a sudden heart attack, leaving behind the family mansion on a sprawling piece of property.

His twin sister, Adele, returned to the town she despises to claim her brother's home, intent on turning it into a B&B. And she's hired Po Paltrow and the Crestwood Quilters to craft quilts for the guest rooms.

But Adele is not the only one interested in the future of the Harrington estate. A developer wants to put multiple houses on the land. The townsfolk just want their neighborhood to retain its small-town charm and not become a tourist trap. But when an autopsy reveals that Oliver was actually poisoned, suspicion falls on his sister. Po doesn't believe Adele is guilty, leaving her determined to discover who else harbored deadly designs on the Harrington home...

Critique: Another fun and absorbing Cozy Mystery from the pen of Sally Goldenbaum and brought to life with the gifted narrative skills of Stephanie Dillard, this complete and unabridged audio book edition of "A Bias for Murder" will especially delight listeners who are devoted fans of 'whodunnit' mysteries with more plot twists and turns than a Disneyland roller-coaster. "A Bias for Murder" will prove an immediate and enduringly popular addition to community library Mystery/Suspense audio book collections and is a 'must' for the legions of Sally Goldenbaum fans!

Editorial Note #1: Sally Goldenbaum (http://www.sallygoldenbaum.com) was born on the shores of Lake Michigan in Manitowoc, Wisconsin to a homemaker mother and a ship-building father. Although she now lives in landlocked Prairie Village, Kansas, her longing for lakes and the sea is satisfied in part by writing the USA Today bestselling Seaside Knitters Mystery series, which is set in Cape Ann, Massachusetts. Her fans can follow her on Facebook at www.sallygoldenbaum.com

Editorial Note #2: Stephanie Dillard (https://www.stephaniedillard.com) studied theater and music at the University of Houston and has a master's degree in choral conducting from Westminster Choir College. While she remains active in the world of theater and opera, she now brings her musical talents behind the mic to give a wide range of vocal colors, clean diction, and emotional nuance to her characters.

The Betrayed
Jeff Wheeler, author
Kate Rudd, narrator
Brilliance Audio
www.brillianceaudio.com
9781799790242, $19.99, MP3-CD (9 Hours, 22 Minutes)

https://www.amazon.com/Betrayed-Dawning-Muirwood-3/dp/179979024X

Synopsis: Bound by more than the search for a fantastical stolen tome, Eilean and Hoel plummet through the mirror gate into Leoneyis -- a world on the brink of disaster as its sovereign's reign begins to unravel. Enemies converge to destroy King Andrew, who has become headstrong and paranoid. His influence is undermined, and his kingdom is vulnerable. That's what happens when a king is betrayed by a queen.

The Queen of Brythonica is not just the rival of an anxious king. She's in possession of the ancient tome that Eilean and Hoel seek, which could help her achieve immortality. She knows Eilean is coming for her, and she is every bit the match for the young wretched. After all, they learned under the same master.

Eilean's first mission: save King Andrew's court lest it disappear under the floods of the Deep Fathoms. Her second: retrieve what is rightfully hers from the clutches of the Queen of Brythonica. To do so means confronting the queen in a duel of wits and magic.

The fate of Leoneyis is left to Eilean. She must save one world to secure the future for which she is destined in her own!

Critique: Narrator Kate Rudd's impressive storytelling skills bring Jeff Wheeler's "The Betrayed" to life in a true 'theatre of the mind' experience for the listener. An epic fantasy with more plot twists and turns than a Disney World roller-coaster, this complete and unabridged audio book from Brilliance Audio will prove a welcome and appreciatively enjoyed addition to personal reading lists and community library Fantasy Fiction audio book collections.

Editorial Note #1: Jeff Wheeler (www.jeff-wheeler.com) is the author of the First Argentines series (Knight's Ransom, Warrior's Ransom, Lady's Ransom, and Fate's Ransom); the Grave Kingdom series; the Harbinger and Kingfountain series; the Legends and Covenant of Muirwood trilogies; the Whispers from Mirrowen trilogy; the Dawning of Muirwood trilogy; and the Landmoor novels. Jeff is a husband, father of five, and devout member of his church. He lives in the Rocky Mountains.

Editorial Note: Kate Rudd (https://www.kateruddreads.com) is the winner of 2013 Audie and Odyssey Awards for narration of John Green's The Fault in Our Stars and has been narrating audiobooks for nearly a decade. A ten time Audiofile Magazine Earphones Award recipient, Kate's performances have garnered inclusion in Audiofile's Best Audiobooks of the Year 2012/2017/2018 and Best Voices of the Year 2012. She has narrated more than 450 titles across a variety of genres and can be followed on Twitter @katerudd

Symphony for a Deadly Throne
E. J. Mellow, author
Madeline Lake & Tony Roberts, narrators
Brilliance Audio
www.brillianceaudio.com
9781713658832, $19.99, MP3-CD (14 Hours, 2 Minues)

https://www.amazon.com/Symphony-Deadly-Throne-Mousai-3/dp/1713658836

Synopsis: Within the world of Aadilor sits the hidden Thief Kingdom, a land overflowing with magic and mayhem. There the Mousai, a trio of deadly sorceresses, serve the reclusive Thief King, delivering punishment and pleasure to the masses.

Arabessa Bassette is the leader of the Mousai, conducting their powerful gifts with unyielding precision. But behind her mask of control burns a desire to forge her own path -- along with a tumultuous relationship with Zimri D'Enieu, her father's right hand and the man who's held her heart since they were children. When an unexpected invitation to vie for the Thief King's throne pulls her into a deadly competition, Arabessa's composure cracks as she finds herself with an impossible choice -- give up her greatest love or her greatest ambition.

But sacrifices loom large in the Thief Kingdom, for the quest for power always comes at a price. With her and Zimri's future hanging in the balance, Arabessa must decide if she's willing to pay it.

Welcome to the world of Aadilor, where love is found between cracks and the most mesmerizing symphonies carry lethal notes. Dare to play?

Critique: An epic conclusion to author E. J. Millow's fantasy trilogy, 'The Mousai', the story telling narration talents of Madeline Lake Tony Roberts to provide the listener with a truly memorable 'threatre of the mind' experience. Complete and unabridged, this Brilliance Audio production is extraordinary and unreservedly recommended for both personal lists and community library Epic Fantasy audio book collections.

Editorial Note #1: E. J. Mellow (http://www.ejmellow.com/about) is an author specializing in magical mayhem. Her work has appeared on best-of lists such as Buzzfeed and Gizmodo and has reached number one on Amazon's charts, as well as received medals from eLit Book Awards and Next Generation Indie Book Awards. Readers have said her "lyrical, vibrant, and imaginative" writing sweeps them into "stunning worlds." She is also the cofounder of She Is Booked, a literary-themed fundraising organization that supports women's charities.

Quick Silver
Dean Koontz, author
Todd Haberkorn, narrator
Brilliance Audio
www.brillianceaudio.com
9781713626176, $29.99, MP3-CD (10 Hours, 8 Minutes)

https://www.amazon.com/Quicksilver-Dean-Koontz/dp/1713626179

Synopsis: Quinn Quicksilver was born a mystery -- abandoned at three days old on a desert highway in Arizona. Raised in an orphanage, never knowing his parents, Quinn had a happy if unexceptional life. Until the day of "strange magnetism." It compelled him to drive out to the middle of nowhere. It helped him find a coin worth a lot of money. And it practically saved his life when two government agents showed up in the diner in pursuit of him. Now Quinn is on the run from those agents and who knows what else, fleeing for his life.

During a shoot-out at a forlorn dude ranch, he finally meets his destined companions: Bridget Rainking, a beauty as gifted in foresight as she is with firearms, and her grandpa Sparky, a romance novelist with an unusual past. Bridget knows what it's like to be Quinn. She's hunted, too. The only way to stay alive is to keep moving.

Barreling through the Sonoran Desert, the formidable trio is impelled by that same inexplicable magnetism toward the inevitable. With every deeply disturbing mile, something sinister is in the rearview -- an enemy that is more than a match for Quinn. Even as he discovers within himself resources that are every bit as scary.

Critique: As an author, Dean Koontz is one of the very best when it comes to a riveting novel of mystery, suspense, and action. Now with his mystery thriller "Quick Silver" available as a complete and unabridged audio book narrated by impressive storytelling skills of Todd Haberkorn, will be treasured by the legions of Dean Koontz fans and an enduringly popular addition to personal and community library Mystery/Suspense audio book collections.

Editorial Note: Dean Koontz (www.deankoontz.com) was only a senior in college when he won an Atlantic Monthly fiction competition. He has never stopped writing since. Koontz is the author of seventy-nine New York Times bestsellers, fourteen of which rose to #1, including One Door Away from Heaven, From the Corner of His Eye, Midnight, Cold Fire, The Bad Place, Hideaway, Dragon Tears, Intensity, Sole Survivor, The Husband, Odd Hours, Relentless, What the Night Knows, and 77 Shadow Street.

Editorial Note #2: Todd Haberkorn (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Todd_Haberkorn) is a talented American voice actor and director, who has dubbed in anime, films, and video games.

The Chemistry of Love
Sariah Wilson, author
Em Eldridge, narrator
Brilliance Audio
www.brillianceaudio.com
9781978694392, $19.99, MP3-CD (12 Hours, 4 Minutes)

https://www.amazon.com/Chemistry-Love-Sariah-Wilson/dp/1978694393

Synopsis: How can Anna Ellis, a geeky, brilliant, and hopelessly smitten cosmetic chemist possibly win over Craig Kimball, the man of her dreams -- who also happens to be her boss? The answer is Craig's empathetic (and handsome) CEO half brother, Marco. The makeup mogul knows Craig for the ridiculously competitive rival he is. Whatever Marco has, Craig wants. That can be Anna, if she's game to play.

All Anna and Marco have to do is pretend they're falling in love and let the rumors begin. If the experiment in attraction works, a jealous Craig will swoop in and give Anna her happily ever after -- if it weren't for one hitch in the plan. There's more to Marco than meets the eye. With every fake date, Anna's feelings are starting to become dizzyingly real.

Blame it on chemistry. It's unpredictable, exciting, and occasionally combustible. If Anna and Marco are really falling in love, who are they to argue with science?

Critique: With a very special appeal to fans of clean, wholesome, contemporary romantic comedy, "The Chemistry of Love" by Sariah Wilson is brilliantly narrated by the vocal storytelling skills of Em Eldridge. The result is complete and unabridged audio book experience and a highly recommended addition to community library Romance Fiction audio book collections.

Editorial Note #1: Sariah Wilson (www.sariahwilson.com) is the author of The Paid Bridesmaid, The Seat Filler, Roommaid, Just a Boyfriend, the Royals of Monterra series, and the #Lovestruck novels.

Editorial Note #2: Em Eldridge (http://www.emeldridgevo.com) is an experienced voice over actor and audio book narrator who has done commercials, animation, and audio books.

Meru
S. B. Divya, author
Deepa Samuel, narrator
Brilliance Audio
www.brillianceaudio.com
9781799799078, $19.99, MP3-CD (11 Hours, 43 Minutes)

https://www.amazon.com/Meru-S-B-Divya/dp/1799799077

Synopsis: For five centuries, human life has been restricted to Earth, while post-human descendants called alloys freely explore the galaxy. But when the Earthlike planet of Meru is discovered, two unlikely companions venture forth to test the habitability of this unoccupied new world and the future of human-alloy relations.

For Jayanthi, the adopted human child of alloy parents, it's an opportunity to rectify the ancient reputation of her species as avaricious and destructive, and to give humanity a new place in the universe. For Vaha, Jayanthi's alloy pilot, it's a daunting yet irresistible adventure to find success as an individual.

As the journey challenges their resolve in unexpected ways, the two form a bond that only deepens with their time alone on Meru. But how can Jayanthi succeed at freeing humanity from its past when she and Vaha have been set up to fail?

Against all odds, hope is human, too!

Critique: A 'must' for dedicated science fiction fans, "Meru" by S. B. Divya and brought to life by the impressive narrative talents of Deepa Samuel is an extraordinary 'theatre of the mind' experience from beginning to end. This complete and unabridged edition from Brilliance Audio will prove to be an immediate and enduringly popular addition to personal and community library Science Fiction audio book collections.

Editorial Note #1: S. B. Divya (www.sbdivya.com) is a Hugo- and Nebula-nominated author whose work includes Machinehood, Runtime, and the short-story collection Contingency Plans for the Apocalypse and Other Possible Situations. Her stories have been published in various magazines, such as Analog and Uncanny; on Tor.com; and in several anthologies, including Seasons Between Us and Rebuilding Tomorrow. She holds degrees in computational neuroscience and signal processing, and she worked for twenty years as an electrical engineer before becoming an author.

Editorial Note #2: A listing of narrator Deepa Samuel's audio book productions can be found at https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/18671635.Deepa_Samuel

Seven Mercies
Laura Lam & Elizabeth May, authors
Christina Traister, narrator
Brilliance Audio
www.brillianceaudio.com
9781799758990, $29.99, MP3-CD (16 Hours, 23 Minutes)

https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/seven-mercies-laura-lam/1139309037?ean=9781799758990

Synopsis: After an ambush leaves the Novantae resistance in tatters, the survivors scatter across the galaxy. Wanted by two great empires, the bounty on any rebel's head is enough to make a captor filthy rich. And the seven devils? Biggest score of them all. To avoid attacks, the crew of Zelus scavenge for supplies on long-abandoned Tholosian outposts.

Not long after the remnants of the rebellion settle briefly on Fortuna, Ariadne gets a message with unimaginable consequences: the Oracle has gone rogue. In a planned coup against the Empire's new ruler, the AI has developed a way of mass programming citizens into mindless drones. The Oracle's demand is simple: the AI wants One's daughter back at any cost.

Time for an Impossible to Infiltrate mission: high chance of death, low chance of success. The devils will have to use their unique skills, no matter the sacrifice, and pair up with old enemies. Their plan? Get to the heart of the Empire. Destroy the Oracle. Burn it all to the ground.

Critique: "Seven Mercies" is the second title in a feminist space opera duology by co-authors Laura Lam & Elizabeth May" and follows the team of seven rebels who will free the galaxy from the ruthless Tholosian Empire -- or die trying. Brought to life in a true 'theatre of the mind' experience by the articulate storytelling skills of narrator Christina Traister, this complete and unabridged audio book edition from Brilliance Audio is especially recommended to the attention of dedicated science fiction fans, and will prove to be an enduringly appreciated addition to community library Science Fiction audio book collections.

Editorial Note #1: Laura Lam (https://lrlam.co.uk) is the author of feminist space opera Seven Devils (co-written with Elizabeth May), BBC Radio 2 Book Club section False Hearts, the companion novel Shattered Minds, and the award-winning Micah Grey series. Her short fiction and essays have appeared in anthologies such as Nasty Women, Solaris Rising 3, Cranky Ladies of History, Scotland in Space, and more.

Editorial Note #2: Elizabeth May (https://elizabethmaywrites.com) is the author of the YA fantasy trilogy The Falconer and short fiction published in the anthology Toil & Trouble. She was born and raised in California before moving to Scotland, where she earned her PhD at the University of St Andrews.

Editorial Note #3: Christina Traister (http://www.christinatraister.com) is a freelance audiobook narrator, having recorded well over two hundred titles for such companies as Brilliance Audio (Amazon), Common Mode (Harlequin Audio and Harper Collins), Tantor Media, Lyric Audiobooks, John Marshall Media (Harper Collins ), Podium Publishing (Audible), Macmillan Publishers (Audible), BeeAudio, Ltd (Harper Collins), Dreamscape Media (HarperCollins), and Talking Book (Coffee House Press).

Not at Eight, Darling
Sherryl Woods, author
Sara Sheckells, narrator
Dreamscape Media
https://www.dreamscapepublishing.com
9781666523447, $TBA, MP3-CD, (292 Minutes)

https://www.dreamscapepublishing.com/catalog/audiobooks/detail/?%22not-at-eight,-darling%22/sherryl-woods+/&id=000 12353

Synopsis: TV producer Barrie MacDonald has worked for years to get her sitcom on the air. So when network executive Michael Compton tries to reschedule her show, she isn't quick to let him have his way -- no matter how charming or handsome the man might be. Though it's clear that he's interested in her, the spunky producer knows better than to mix their personal and professional lives together. But as Barrie sees similarities between her real-life problems and the romance of her on-screen heroine, she begins to rethink her decision to brush Michael aside. Life with Michael could get complicated. But maybe life without him would be far less exciting!

Critique: An original and fun romance novel by author Sherryl Woods, "Not at Eight, Darling" is now available in a complete and unabridged audio book edition thanks to the simply outstanding narrative talents of Sara Sheckells. "Not at Eight, Darling" is a delightful and recommended addition to the personal lists of dedicated romance fans, and will prove to be an enduringly popular contribution to community library Contemporary Romance audio book collections.

Editorial Note #1: Sherryl Woods (https://sherrylwoods.com) is the author of nearly 150 books. Two of her series have been developed for TV. Chesapeake Shores airs on Hallmark Channel and Sweet Magnolias on Netflix.

Editorial Note #2: Sara Sheckells (https://sarasounds.com) has told stories as a radio host, a costumed tour guide, and now as an audiobook narrator. A former educator, her specialized knowledge of college life, adolescence, and career development informs her narration in multiple genres including literary fiction, memoirs, thrillers, self-development, and women's fiction.

Murder Out Of Character
Olivia Matthews, author
Janna Edwards, narrator
Hallmark Publishing
c/o Dreamscape Media
https://www.dreamscapepublishing.com
9781666610123, $TBA, MP3-CD, (453 Minutes)

https://www.dreamscapepublishing.com/catalog/audiobooks/detail/?murder-out-of-character/olivia-matthews+/&id=000133 98

Synopsis: Marvey, still adjusting to life in Peach Coast, Georgia, is at a library fundraising event when she comes across a list of four names. One is the name of someone who recently died -- and who may have been murdered. Another is Spencer Holt, the handsome newspaper owner who's become one of Marvey's best friends. The four people appear to have nothing in common other than living in Peach Coast. Spencer dismisses the list at first, but before long, he has to admit he may be in danger. As Marvey prepares for a visit from her parents, can she, Spencer, and their intrepid librarian friends stop a killer bent on long overdue revenge?

Critique: An expertly crafted cozy mystery by novelist Olivia Matthews, this complete and unabridged audio book edition is skillfully narrated by Janna Edwards. The result is a flawlessly produced listening experience that will have a very special appeal to anyone with an interest in the adventures of a woman sleuth dealing with a mystery that has more plot twists and turns than a Disneyland roller-coaster. "Murder Out Of Character" is very highly recommended for both personal reading lists and community library Mystery/Suspense audio book collections.

Editorial Note #1: Olivia Matthews is the cozy mystery pseudonym for national best-selling and award-winning author Patricia Sargeant (www.PatriciaSargeant.com). Patricia's work has been featured in national publications such as Publishers Weekly, USA Today, Kirkus Reviews, Suspense Magazine, Mystery Scene Magazine, Library Journal and RT Book Reviews. She's also been interviewed on podcasts including Destination Mystery with Laura Brennan, Conversations LIVE! with Cyrus Webb, Read You Later with Lasheera Lee and Katara's Cafe with Katara Johnson.

Editorial Note #2: Janina Edwards (https://www.janinaspeaksvolumes.com) has recorded more than 400 titles through traditional audiobook publishers including Blackstone, Simon & Schuster, Dreamscape, Tantor, and Audible, as well independent production platforms, such as ACX and Findaway. She has been featured in the New York Times, Audiofile and ACX (Audible's Audiobook Creation Exchange). Janina excels at portraying compelling believable characters and voices of African Americans, and other people of the English-speaking African diaspora (the West Indies, West and South Africa).

State of the Union
Marie Force, author
Eva Kaminsky, narrator
HTJB, Inc.
c/o Dreamscape Media
https://www.dreamscapepublishing.com
9781666609943, $34.99, MP3-CD (560 Minutes)

https://www.amazon.com/State-Union-Marie-Force/dp/1666609943

Synopsis: President Cappuano has been working for months on his first State of the Union address, his highest profile moment yet as the country's new president. He's dealing with a wide array of complex issues and is counting down to the televised speech before a joint session of Congress. While he tries to strike the right tone to assure the American people that their new president is hard at work on their behalf, his wife, Metro Police Lt. Sam Holland is faced with one of the most confounding cases of her career and juggling some complex issues at home with the couple's children. Add to that some vexing security concerns, and the first couple are on edge as they wonder whether they'll pass this first big test for the fledgling Cappuano administration. As always, when things get too hot to handle in the rest of their lives, Sam and Nick turn to each other for solace as their bond grows deeper by the day

Critique: The latest installment in the First Family Series by novelist Marie Force, and now available as a complete and unabridged audio book, "State of the Union" is brilliantly narrated by the impressive vocal acting talents of Eva Kaminsky who does full justice to the narrative driven writing style of the author. The result is an especially and unreservedly recommended addition to personal and community library Contemporary Romance/Suspense audio book collections.

Editorial Note #1: Marie Force (https://marieforce.com/ is an author of contemporary romance, romantic suspense, and erotic romance. Her series includes Gansett Island, Fatal, Treading Water, Butler Vermont, Quantum, and Miami Nights. Her books have sold more than ten million copies worldwide, have been translated into more than a dozen languages, and have appeared on the New York Times bestseller list more than thirty times.

Editorial Note #2: Eva Kaminsky (https://www.evakaminsky.com) is an actress, director, and audiobook narrator. An Audie nominee and two-time winner of the Earphones Award, she has recorded over 150 audiobooks in genres ranging from romance to young adult.

The Great Man Theory
Teddy Wayne, author
Adam Barr, narrator
Dreamscape Media
https://www.dreamscapepublishing.com
9781666609431, $22.99, MP3-CD (10 Hours, 25 Minutes)

https://www.amazon.com/Great-Man-Theory-Teddy-Wayne/dp/1666609439

Synopsis: Paul is a recently demoted adjunct instructor of freshman comp, a divorced but doting Brooklyn father, and a self-described "curmudgeonly crank" cataloging his resentment of the priorities of modern life in a book called The Luddite Manifesto.

Outraged by the authoritarian creeps ruining the country, Paul is determined to better the future for his young daughter, one aggrieved lecture at a time. Shockingly, others aren't very receptive to his scoldings. His child grows distant, preferring superficial entertainment to her father's terrarium and anti-technological tutelage. His careerist students are less interested than ever in what he has to say, and his last remaining friends appear ready to ditch him.

To make up for lost income, he moonlights as a ride-share driver and moves in with his elderly mother, whose third-act changes confound and upset him. As one indignity follows the next, and Paul's disaffection with his circumstances and society mounts, he concocts a dramatic plan to right the world's wrongs and gives himself a more significant place in it.

Critique: As a novelist, author Teddy Wayne has a genuine flair for satire and finely honed characters. As entertaining as it is thought-provoking, this complete and unabridged audio book edition (so deftly narrated by the storytelling talents of narrator Adam Barr) of "The Great Man Theory" will prove a welcome addition to both personal and community library Contemporary Fiction audio book collections.

Editorial Note #1: Teddy Wayne (https://teddywayne.com) is the author of the novels "Loner" (Simon & Schuster), "The Love Song of Jonny Valentine" (Simon & Schuster), and "Kapitoil" (Harper Perennial). A columnist for the New York Times and McSweeney's and a regular contributor to The New Yorker, he is also the recipient of a Whiting Writers' Award and an NEA Creative Writing Fellowship. He has taught at Columbia University, Washington University in St. Louis, and the Yale Writers' Conference.

Editorial Note #2: Adam Barr (https://www.adambarrnarration.com) is a recovering lawyer; a 25-year veteran of the golf industry (primarily as a print and TV journalist); an actor and singer with a lively, wide-ranging baritone voice -- and a lifelong lover of books and reading. His studies with prominent audiobook veterans Johnny Heller and Shannon Parks have helped him focus on well-crafted characters rather than just bare words on the page.

Kill Them with Canvas
Bailee Abbot, author
Jennifer Jill Araya, narrator
Dreamscape Media
https://www.dreamscapepublishing.com
9781666616651, $22.99, CD (9 Hours, 14 Minutes)

https://www.amazon.com/Kill-Them-Canvas-Bailee-Abbott/dp/1666616656

Synopsis: Chloe Abbington and her sister, Izzie, are enjoying huge success running Paint with a View, their paint party business in the tranquil western New York lakeside town of Whisper Cove. Now, their aunt Constance (president of the local chapter of the Chautauqua Sisterhood) has hooked them up with a gig hosting a Halloween painting party. The guests will be painting a local ghost legend, the Lady of Chautauqua Lake, who died a hundred years earlier and rises from the lake every October to haunt anyone who dares venture out on All Hallows' Eve.

The event seems to be going off without a hitch, until Chloe overhears an argument between Constance and Viola Finnwinkle, the Sisterhood director, about the fate of the local chapter. Both women leave and the sisters finish their painting. But the next morning, Viola's body is discovered floating face down near the town ferryboat dock, her long red hair spread around her. Eerily, the image is an exact replica of a painting Chloe and Izzie had discovered at the event the night before.

What's more, the police find Constance's purple knit hat lying on the ground near the crime scene. Constance pleads innocence, saying the hat mysteriously went missing during the event. Frantic that she might be charged with murder, she begs Chloe and Izzie to help her. The sisters believe their aunt is innocent, but if so, who's the real killer -- and when will the next victim turn up?

Critique: "Kill Them With Canvas" is the second novel in author Bailee Abbott's cozy mystery series 'A Paint By Murder Mystery'. A beautifully constructed and original 'whodunnit' that is especially and unreservedly recommended for community library Mystery/Suspense audio book collections, "Kill Them With Canvas" is brought brilliantly to life in a true 'theatre of the mind' experience by the narrative storytelling skills of Jennifer Jill Araya.

Editorial Note #1: Bailee Abbott is a member of Sisters in Crime as well as of International Thriller Writers. She also writes the Sierra Pines B&B mystery series under the name Kathryn Long and has an online Author's Page at https://crookedlanebooks.com/bailee-abbott

Editorial Note #2: Jennifer Jill Araya (http://www.jenniferjillaraya.com) is an Audie-Award winning narrator who's training as an opera singer and orchestral cellist lend a musicality and depth of understanding to her narration that help bring an author's story to life. An Audie Award Winner, Earphones Award Recipient, American Library Association YALSA Amazing Audiobooks Award Winner, SOVAS Award Finalist, and three-time Independent Audiobook Award Finalist, Jennifer has narrated nearly 300 audiobooks for a variety of publishers and producers, including Penguin Random House Audio, Simon & Schuster Audio, HarperAudio, Blackstone Publishing, and Audible Studios. Jennifer also narrates Romance and Erotica titles under the name Isabelle Ruther.

EDITOR'S NOTE:

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James A. Cox, Editor-in-Chief
Midwest Book Review
278 Orchard Drive
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James A. Cox, Editor-in-Chief
Midwest Book Review