October 2023 MBR The Audiobook Shelf

The Audiobook Shelf

Hello Stranger
Katherine Center, author
Patti Murin, narrator
Macmillan Audio
www.macmillanaudio.com
9781250893246, $39.99, CD (10 Hours 39 Minutes)

https://www.amazon.com/Hello-Stranger-Novel-Katherine-Center/dp/1250893240

Synopsis: Sadie Montgomery never saw what was coming. Literally! One minute she's celebrating the biggest achievement of her life (placing as a finalist in the North American Portrait Society competition) the next she's lying in a hospital bed diagnosed with a "probably temporary" condition known as face blindness. She can see, but every face she looks at is now a jumbled puzzle of disconnected features. Imagine trying to read a book upside down and in another language. This is Sadie's new reality.

But, as she struggles to cope, hang on to her artistic dream, work through major family issues, and take care of her beloved dog, Peanut, she falls in love -- not with one man but two. The timing couldn't be worse.

Making judgment calls on anything right now is a nightmare. If only her life were a little more in focus, Sadie might be able to have it all.

Critique: "Hello Stranger" is a romantic comedy by Katherine Center that is brought vividly to life by the narrative talents of Patti Murin. This complete, unabridged, and flawless edition from MacMillan is a top pick for community library audio book collections and a 'must' for the growing legions of Katherine Center fans.

Editorial Note #1: Katherine Center (https://katherinecenter.com) is the author of over half a dozen books, including How to Walk Away, Things You Save in a Fire, and What You Wish For. Katherine writes laugh-and-cry books about how life knocks us down -- and how we get back up. Her books have made countless Best-Of lists, including RealSimple's Best Books of 2020, Amazon's Top 100 Books of 2019, Goodreads' Best Books of the Year, and many more. The movie adaptation of Katherine's novel The Lost Husband (starring Josh Duhamel) hit #1 on Netflix, and her novel Happiness for Beginners is in production now as a Netflix original starring Ellie Kemper.

Editorial Note #2: Patti Murin (https://www.audible.com/search?searchNarrator=Patti+Murin) is an American actress, singer, dancer, and audio book narrator. On Broadway, she has originated the title role in Lysistrata Jones (2011) and Princess Anna in Frozen (2018). She also had a recurring role as Dr. Nina Shore in the NBC medical drama Chicago Med from 2016 to 2019.

The Raging Storm
Ann Cleeves, author
Jack Holder, narrator
Macmillan Audio
www.macmillanaudio.com
9781250910318, $39.99, CD

https://www.amazon.com/Raging-Storm-Detective-Matthew-Novel/dp/1250910315

Synopsis: When sailor, adventurer, and legend Jem Rosco blows into town in the middle of an autumn gale, the residents of Greystone, Devon, are delighted to have a celebrity in their midst. But just as abruptly as he arrived, Rosco disappears again, and soon his lifeless body is discovered in a dinghy, anchored off Scully Cove, a place with legends of its own.

This is an uncomfortable case for Detective Inspector Matthew Venn. Greystone is a place he visited as a child, a community he parted ways with. Superstition and rumor mix with fact as another body is found, and Venn finds his judgment clouded.

As the winds howl, and Venn and his team investigate, he realizes that no one, including himself, is safe from Scully Cove's storm of dark secrets.

Critique: A very special treat for 'whodunnit' murder mystery fans, novelist Ann Cleeves' "The Raging Storm" is brought to life in a true 'theatre of the mind' experience with this complete and unabridged Macmillan audio book edition featuring the narrative skills of Jack Holden. "The Raging Storm" is a welcome and stellar addition to personal and community library Mystery/Suspense audio book collections.

Editorial Note #1: Books by Ann Cleeves (https://www.anncleeves.com) have been translated into sixteen languages. She's a bestseller in Scandinavia and Germany. Her novels sell widely and to critical acclaim in the United States. Raven Black was shortlisted for the Martin Beck award for best translated crime novel in Sweden.

Editorial Note #2: Jack Holden is a talented actor and a listing of his narrated audio books can be found at https://www.audible.com/search?searchNarrator=Jack+Holden

Identity
Nora Roberts, author
January LaVoy, narrator
Macmillan Audio
www.macmillanaudio.com
9781250893345, $32.99, CD (15 Hours 4 Minutes)

https://www.amazon.com/Audible-Identity-A-Novel/dp/B0BH9BBTZM

Synopsis: Former Army brat Morgan Albright has finally planted roots in a friendly neighborhood near Baltimore. Her friend and roommate Nina helps her make the mortgage payments, as does Morgan's job as a bartender. But after she and Nina host their first dinner party - attended by Luke, the flirtatious IT guy who'd been chatting her up at the bar - her carefully built world is shattered. The back door glass is broken, cash and jewelry are missing, her car is gone, and Nina lies dead on the floor.

Soon, a horrific truth emerges: It was Morgan who let the monster in. "Luke" is actually a cold-hearted con artist named Gavin who targets a particular type of woman, steals her assets and identity, and then commits his ultimate goal: murder.

What the FBI tells Morgan is beyond chilling. Nina wasn't his type. Morgan is. Nina was simply in the wrong place at the wrong time. And Morgan's nightmare is just beginning. Soon she has no choice but to flee to her mother's home in Vermont. While she struggles to build something new, she meets another man, Miles Jameson. He isn't flashy or flirtatious, and his family business has deep roots in town. But Gavin is still out there hunting new victims, and he hasn't forgotten the one who got away.

Critique: Of particular appeal to fans of romantic suspense and murder mystery novels, this complete and unabridged Macmillan audio book edition of "Identity" by novelist Nora Roberts is expertly narrated by the storytelling talents of January LaVoy and will prove a welcome and popular addition to community library Mystery/Suspense audio book collections and a 'must' for the legions of dedicated Nora Roberts fans.

Editorial Note #1: Nora Roberts (https://noraroberts.com) is the author of more than 230 novels, including Legacy, The Awakening, Hideaway, Under Currents, The Chronicles of The One trilogy,and many more. She is also the author of the bestselling In Death series written under the pen name J.D. Robb. There are more than 500 million copies of her books in print.

Editorial Note #2: January LaVoy (https://www.januarylavoy.com/home/audio) has narrated hundreds of audiobook and is an Audiofile Magazine Golden Voice, with 18 Audie nominations (solo and multicast) and 7 wins. She was named Audiobook Narrator of the Year by Publishers Weekly magazine in 2013, has received multiple SOVAS (Society of Voice Arts and Sciences) awards, and over 40 Audiofile Earphones awards.

Flop Dead Gorgeous
David Rosenfelt, author
Grover Gardner, narrator
Macmillan Audio
www.macmillanaudio.com
9781250325303, $29.99, CD

https://www.amazon.com/Flop-Dead-Gorgeous-Carpenter-Mystery/dp/1250325307

Synopsis: Retired lawyer Andy Carpenter remembers every dog that's come through the Tara Foundation's doors, but the most well-known alum of the dog rescue organization that Andy founded in Paterson, New Jersey, may be Mamie. Adopted by famous actress Jenny Nichols (Andy's high school girlfriend) the miniature French poodle is now practically a starlet in her own right.

Andy doesn't hold it against his friend. In fact, he and his wife, Laurie, have dinner with Jenny while she's in town filming her next big hit. But after an eventful meal, there's a plot twist the next morning that none of them see coming: Jenny's co- star is found dead, a knife in his back. It's not long before Jenny is arrested for the murder and finds herself in need of Andy's legal services.

While Mamie becomes reacquainted with Tara, Andy's golden retriever, Andy digs into the lives of the rich and famous.

Critique: An absolute gem of a mystery novel, Grover Gardner continues to superbly perform as the narrator for David Rosenfelt's "Flop Dead Dangerous" in this complete and unabridged Macmillan audio book edition of the 27th title in the author's 'Andy Carpenter Mystery' series. Laced with humor, plot twists, and fun, "Flop Dead Dangerous" is a 'must' for any and all dog-loving mystery fans, as well as community library Mystery/Suspense audio book collections.

Editorial Note #1: David Rosenfelt (https://davidrosenfelt.com), was the former marketing president for Tri-Star Pictures before becoming a writer of novels and screenplays. "Open And Shut" was his first novel; "First Degree," his second novel, was named a best book of 2003 by Publishers Weekly.

Editorial Note #2: Grover Gardner (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Grover_Gardner) is an American narrator of audiobooks. As of May 2018, he had narrated over 1,200 books. He was also the Publishers Weekly "Audiobook Narrator of the Year" (2005) and is among AudioFile magazine's "Best Voices of the Century".

Fractal Noise
Christopher Paloini, author
Jennifer Hale, narrator
Macmillan Audio
www.macmillanaudio.com
9781250871589, $39.99, CD

https://www.amazon.com/Fractal-Noise-Fractalverse-Christopher-Paolini/dp/1250871581

Synopsis: July 25, 2234: The crew of the Adamura discovers the Anomaly. On the seemingly uninhabited planet Talos VII they find a circular pit some 50 kilometers wide. It's curve is not one created by nature, but designed by an intelligence.

Now, a small team must land and journey on foot across the surface to learn who built the hole and why. But they all carry the burdens of lives carved out on disparate colonies in the cruel cold of space. For some the mission is the dream of the lifetime, for others a risk not worth taking, and for one it is a desperate attempt to find meaning in an uncaring universe.

Each step they take toward the mysterious abyss is more punishing than the last. And the ghosts of their past follow.

Critique: Of particular appeal and interest to fans of explorative science fiction adventures, this complete and unabridged audio book edition from Macmillan is effective and impressively narrated by Jennifer Hale who is able to bring Christopher Paolini's original and deftly crafted novel to life in a true 'theatre of the mind' experience for the listener. A Fractal Verse novel, "Fractal Noise" is a firmly recommended addition to community library Science Fiction collections and the personal listening lists of dedicated science fiction fans. It should be noted that the first volume in the Fractal Verse series is "To Sleep in a Sea of Stars" which is also available as a Macmillan audio book.

Editorial Note #1: Christopher James Paolini (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Christopher_Paolini) is an American author and screenwriter. He is best known for The Inheritance Cycle, which consists of the books Eragon, Eldest, Brisingr, Inheritance, and the follow-up short story collection The Fork, the Witch and the Worm.

Editorial Note: Jennifer Hale (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jennifer_Hale) a prolific and highly acclaimed Canadian American voice actress and singer, who has performed an impressive array of characters for video games, audiobooks, and animated television shows. She made her audiobook debut with Christopher Paolini's "To Sleep in a Sea of Stars".

A Spanish Sunrise
Boo Walker, author
Dan John Miller, narrator
Brilliance Audio
https://audiobookstore.com/publishers/brilliance-audio
9781713667612, $14.99, MP3-CD (11 Hours 54 Minutes)

https://www.amazon.com/Spanish-Sunrise-Novel-Boo-Walker/dp/1713667614

Synopsis: Adjusting to the death of his wife hasn't been easy on Baxter Shaw -- or on their eight-year-old daughter, Mia. Baxter has left his band and abandoned his dreams to focus on being a single father, but it's not enough: Mia's exhibiting escalating behavioral problems. And neither has been able to face the past head-on... until the past reaches out to them.

After surprising results from a DNA test, Baxter and Mia journey to southeastern Spain to connect with their mysterious roots. Staying in a centuries-old villa on a renowned olive oil estate, they come to know the family they never realized they had, including a woman whose strength and passion for the estate remind Baxter of the love he lost -- and that it's not too late to rekindle his own dreams.

For Baxter and Mia, it's a healing season in Spain, and the romance of the culture awakens a new outlook on life. But when long-simmering family secrets surface and the estate's fate is called into question, Baxter must choose to let go of the past if he ever hopes to find love and live again.

Critique: A skillfully written novel of friendship, family life, and romance, "A Spanish Sunrise" by author Boo Walker is dramatically and engagingly narrated by Dan John Miller. This complete and unabridged audio book from Brilliance Audio will prove a welcome addition to both personal and community library audio book collections.

Editorial Note #1: Boo Walker ( www.boowalker.com) is the author of The Singing Trees, An Unfinished Story, and the Red Mountain Chronicles. He initially tapped his creative muse as a songwriter and banjoist in Nashville before working his way west to Washington State, where he bought a gentleman's farm on the Yakima River. It was there, among the grapevines and wine barrels, that he fell in love with telling high-impact stories that now resonate with book clubs around the world. Rich with colorful characters and boundless soul, his novels will leave you with an open heart and a lifted spirit. He also writes thrillers under the pen name Benjamin Blackmore. (www.benjaminblackmore.com)

Editorial Note #2: Dan John Miller (https://danjohnmiller.com) is an Audie award-winning voice-actor and audiobook narrator who has garnered 10 Earphones awards, 3 Publishers Weekly Listen Up! Awards, 5 Audie nominations and has been named a "Best Voice" by Audiofile magazine 5 years running. He has narrated over 200 audiobooks,

A Woman in Time
Bobi Conn, author
Shannon McManus, narrator
Brilliance Audio
https://audiobookstore.com/publishers/brilliance-audio
9781713663652, $24.99, MP3-CD (11 Hours 10 Minutes)

https://www.amazon.com/Woman-Time-Novel-Bobi-Conn/dp/1713663651

Synopsis: The McKenzie women, empowered with a formidable history rooted in the foothills of Appalachia, have passed down their folk-healing wisdom through generations. Rosalee, the last living headstrong daughter in Granny McKenzie's line, soaked up everything she could about the secrets of the forest before a series of tragedies left her alone, without the protection of the women who came before her.

The close-knit ties of Rosalee's childhood are long gone. Now, at her eastern Kentucky farm, she bears a marriage with a volatile bootlegger. She struggles with the demands of motherhood. And her independence is relegated to its "proper place": under the thumb of men. Her optimism dimming, Rosalee finds solace in the Kentucky woods, a space that holds secret powers of protection from a life Rosalee can no longer control. To the graves of her female ancestors, beside the waters of an enchanting spring, Rosalee returns time and again to consider her future -- and discovers a mysterious connection to her past.

As Rosalee wrestles with her isolation, with being a wife in an increasingly dangerous marriage, and with being a woman of her time, she must draw on her strength and resilience to survive (and to protect) on her own terms.

Critique: Original, compelling, deftly crafted, and superbly narrated from beginning to end, this complete and unabridged audio book edition from Brilliance Audio of novelist Bobi Conn's "A Woman in Time" (and brilliantly narrated by Shannon McManus) is now available and highly recommended for personal and community library Women's Fiction audio book collections.

Editorial Note #1: Bobi Conn is the author of the memoir In the Shadow of the Valley. Born in Morehead, Kentucky, and raised in a nearby holler, Bobi developed a deep connection with the land and her Appalachian roots. She obtained her bachelor's degree at Berea College, the first school in the American South to integrate racially and to teach men and women in the same classrooms. She attended graduate school, where she earned a master's degree in English with an emphasis in creative writing.

Editorial Note #2: Shannon McManus (https://shannonmcmanus.com) is an Audie nominated narrator whose work has garnered multiple AudioFile magazine Earphones and Publishers Weekly Listen Up awards. She has recorded over two hundred titles in romance, mystery, fantasy, nonfiction, young adult, middle grade, and literary fiction..

Love on the Byline
Xio Axelrod
Brilliance Audio
https://audiobookstore.com/publishers/brilliance-audio
9781713656647, $19.99, MP3-CD (10 Hours)

https://www.amazon.com/Love-Byline-Plays-Players-Novel/dp/1713656647

Synopsis: Blake Dillon isn't exactly living the dream. She longs to follow in her grandfather's footsteps and make a difference in the world as a journalist. Unfortunately, her current job has her paying-off hotel staff for celebrity gossip. Tasked with shadowing a film star for an in-depth profile, Blake sees it as a chance to finally prove her worth. She never expected the interview to reconnect her with her old college crush.

Oliver Benjamin agrees to move to Los Angeles to work as the executive assistant to his best friend, a rising star. He hopes it will give him some direction. However, he soon discovers the only difference between being a frat boy and a Hollywood heartthrob is the amount of free stuff and the level of media attention. Ollie spends most of his time putting out fires, leaving little time for anything else. When Blake is sent to chronicle their lives, he finds himself face-to-face with the one that got away.

Blake and Ollie are smart enough to recognize the signs (there are enough sparks between them to melt glass!) but they agree to put a lid on it until the article is finished. Much easier said than done when they're forced to spend more time together than apart. There's more going on than a simple interview, but they're both professionals. They must resist temptation or risk unraveling both their lives.

Critique: The stuff of which Hallmark Rom-Com movies are made, this complete and unabridged audio book edition of "Love on the Byline" by Xio Axelrod, co-narrated by Lynn Wright and William LeRoy, is published by Brilliance audio and a strongly recommended pick for both personal and community library Contemporary Romance audio book collections.

Editorial Note #1: Xio Axelrod writes different flavors of contemporary romance and what she likes to call, "strange, twisted tales". Xio grew up in the recording industry and began performing at a very young age. A completely unapologetic, badge-wearing, fic-writing fangirl, Xio finds inspiration in everything around her. From her quirky neighbors to the lyrics of whatever song she currently has on repeat, to the latest clips from her favorite TV series.

Editorial Note #2: There is an extensive listing of Lynn Wright narrated audio books at: https://www.audible.com/search?searchNarrator=Lynn+Wright

Editorial Note #3: There is an extensive listing of William LeRoy narrated audio books at: https://www.audible.com/search?searchNarrator=William+LeRoy

Third Wheel
Nick Spalding, author
Will Watt, narrator
Brilliance Audio
https://audiobookstore.com/publishers/brilliance-audio
9781799783886, $14.99, MP3-CD (8 Hours 35 Minutes)

https://www.amazon.com/Third-Wheel-Nick-Spalding/dp/179978388X

Synopsis: Jake Carlisle is living his best life, thanks to the crazily successful influencer channel he created with his best friend Sy. Reviewing whacky hobbies and adrenaline-fuelled adventures, Sy has pushed Jake into doing more exciting stuff than either ever thought possible. Then disaster strikes.

When newbie Helena joins the team, Sy quickly falls head over heels for her... All of a sudden, with romance blossoming and the business dynamic shifting, Jake is horrified to find himself becoming the dreaded third wheel.

Being the odd one out was not what he signed up for. And he'll do anything to get his best friend back -- even if that involves a little light sabotage, an unhealthy amount of jealousy... and one very unfortunate pair of tartan Speedos.

Will Jake be relegated to the background from now on? Or will he finally learn to stand on his own two feet and succeed at getting his life (along with his friendship) back on track?

Critique: Of very special appeal and interest to fans of contemporary satirical fiction, "Third Wheel" by author Nick Spalding is impressively and effectively narrated by vocal actor Will Watt in this complete and unabridged edition from Brilliance Audio. Fun and funny, "Third Wheel" will prove to be a stellar addition to personal and community Humorous Fiction audio book collections.

Editorial Note #1: Nick Spalding (www.nickspalding.com) is the bestselling author of sixteen novels, two novellas and two memoirs. Nick worked in media and marketing for most of his life before turning his energy to his genre-spanning humorous writing.

Editorial Note #2: Will Watt (https://soundbooththeater.com/team/will-m-watt) is a British voiceover artist and audiobook narrator with a talent for believable characters, intelligent delivery, and writing about himself in the third person. Although American is not his native language, he speaks it almost as fluently as he speaks English!

The Heist
C. W. Gortner & M. J. Rose, authors
Chris Andrew Ciulla & Eva Kaminsky, narrators
Brilliance Audio
https://audiobookstore.com/publishers/brilliance-audio
9781713630197, $14.99, MP3-CD (4 Hours 10 Minutes)

https://www.amazon.com/Heist-Leopard-C-W-Gortner/dp/1713630192

Synopsis: The sequel to co-authors C. W. Gortner and M. J. Rose's "The Bait", "The Heist" finds that a year later Ania Throne is once again on the prowl. Gone into hiding, she's planned her next move to perfection, intent on winning her dangerous game of cat-against-cat with the Leopard. But Ania doesn't know that even the best-laid heists have hidden flaws.

Meanwhile, Jerome Curtis has taken a job at a Hollywood movie studio to try and put his life back together. When a familiar face from the past shows up unexpectedly, Jerome realizes that much as he's tried to forget her, there's no escaping Ania. And this time, what she's about to do could be her doom.

The heist is on. Jerome must join with Ania again to bring down the mastermind thief who's dead-set on not getting caught. Passion and vengeance collide as father and daughter bait each other in a high-stakes gambit, with Jerome caught in the middle. Because no matter how much Ania has tried to keep her lover safe, she's only brought him back into the center of her ploy - and the Leopard intends to take full advantage of it.

From the glamour of late 1950s Hollywood to a desperate chase in the ravines of Los Angeles, two leopards must hunt each other to the end. And only one of them can bring down its prey!

Critique: "The Heist" is the thrilling conclusion in the 'To Catch A Leopard' series -- a dramatic romantic caper trilogy that began with "The Steal", and then continued with "The Bait". A complete and unabridged audio book from Brilliance Audio, "The Heist is masterfully narrated by the team of Chris Andrew Ciulla and Eva Kamnisky and highly recommended for both personal and community library action/adventure audio book collections.

Editorial Note #1: C.W. Gortner (http://www.cwgortner.com) holds an MFA in Writing with an emphasis on Renaissance Studies from the New College of California and a degree in fashion marketing. In his extensive travels to research his books, he has experienced life in a Spanish castle and danced in a Tudor great hall. Half-Spanish by birth, his novels have been translated in over 20 languages to date. C.W. enjoys talking to book groups.

Editorial Note #2: M. J. Rose (https://www.mjrose.com/content) work has appeared in many magazines including Oprah Magazine and The Adventurine and she has been featured in the New York Times, Newsweek, WSJ, Time, USA Today and on the Today Show, and NPR radio.

Editorial Note #3: Chris Andrew Ciulla (http://chrisciulla.com) is an award-winning narrator with over 425 credits.

Editorial Note #4: Eva Kaminsky (https://www.evakaminsky.com) is a NYC based actor who has worked on Broadway, Off-Broadway, and has narrated over 300 audio books.

The Last Sentinel
Simon Gervais, author
Jeffrey Kafer, narrator
Brilliance Audio
https://audiobookstore.com/publishers/brilliance-audio
9781713651178, $14.99, MP3-CD (6 Hours 59 Minutes)

https://www.amazon.com/Last-Sentinel-Clayton-White/dp/1713651173

Synopsis: Ex - Secret Service agent Clayton White doesn't miss the relentless danger that had defined his career. These days, he's enjoying life at sea with his fiancee -- who also happens to be the daughter of the double-dealing vice president, Alexander Hammond. But for the most part, Clayton has made peace with his old nemesis.

Then their ship, the NOAAS Surveyor, comes under attack. That same day in Miami, the Second Lady of the United States is assassinated. Hammond, who dodged the bullet meant for him, calls upon Clayton to help him hunt down the responsible party.

Clayton wants nothing to do with the notorious vice president, who boasts a violent and capricious history. But with his fiancee's life in the balance, Clayton has no choice. He jumps back into the fray, where he'll face off with enemies new and old. And unbeknownst to Clayton, a deep-rooted enemy has been waiting in the shadows and has now set his sights on him.

This time, it's not just the world Clayton's trying to save -- but the woman he loves.

Critique: An impressive action/adventure novel that will have a very special appeal to fans of politica/military suspense thrillers, ths complete and unabridged audio book edition of "The Last Sentinel" by Simon Gervais is flawlessly narrated by Jeffrey Kafer and a welcome, recommended pick for personal and community library Suspense/Thriller audio book collections.

Editorial Note #1: Simon Gervais (https://simongervaisbooks.com) was born in Montreal, Quebec. He joined the Canadian military as an infantry officer and was commissioned as a second lieutenant in 1997. In 2001, he was recruited by the Royal Canadian Mounted Police and became a federal agent. His first posting was in Toronto, where he served as a drug investigator. During this time, he worked on many international drug-related cases in close collaboration with his American colleagues from the Drug Enforcement Administration. His career switched gears in 2004, and he was placed with a federal antiterrorism unit based in the Ottawa region. During the following years, he was deployed in several European and Middle Eastern countries. In 2009, he became a close protection specialist tasked with guarding foreign heads of state visiting Canada. He served on the protection details of Queen Elizabeth II, US president Barack Obama, and Chinese president Hu Jintao, among others.

Editorial Note #2: Jeffrey Kafer (https://www.jeffreykafer.com) is an avid performer on the stage and in voice-overs. He has narrated over one hundred books spanning all genres and won the 2008 Voicey Award for Best New Voice.

Centers of Gravity
Marko Kloos, author
Eric G. Dove, narrator
Brilliance Audio
https://audiobookstore.com/publishers/brilliance-audio
9781713646808, $14.99, MP3-CD (9 Hours 48 Minutes)

https://www.amazon.com/Centers-Gravity-Frontlines-Marko-Kloos/dp/1713646803

Synopsis: Nine hundred light-years from home, Major Andrew Grayson and the crew of NACS Washington are marooned in a sunless system with limited water, reactor fuel, and food. Their last hope for survival is to go where nothing human has gone before.

After embarking on a scouting mission to the only moon with surface signs of life, Andrew and his special tactics team make two startling discoveries. One is a dream: a form of protein and plant life that could save the starving humans in the rogue system. The second is a nightmare: this harvested rock is infested with Lankies. Far from the seemingly mindless aggressors Andrew has battled for years, these show a terrifying awareness, and they have surprising secrets of their own hidden away in the darkness.

When the Lankies sense an uninvited presence in their world, Andrew's operation becomes an expedition to hell. The odds against his small crew are stacked high. Of all the mysteries of space, how to escape with their lives is the greatest unknown of all.

Critique: Science fiction action/adventure at its cliff-hanging best, "Centers of Gravity" by author Marko Kloos is vividly presented by the impressively exceptional narrative talents of Eric G. Dove in this complete and unabridged audio book edition from Brilliance Audio that is especially and unreservedly recommended for personal and community library Science Fiction audio book collections.

Editorial Note #1: Marko Kloos (www.markokloos.com) is the author of two military science fiction series: The Palladium Wars, which includes Aftershocks and Ballistic, and the Frontlines series, which includes Orders of Battle and, most recently, Centers of Gravity. A member of George R. R. Martin's Wild Cards consortium, Marko writes primarily science fiction and fantasy.

Editorial Note #2: Eric G. Dove (https://www.ericgdove.com) is an award-winning narrator whose career spans over 12 years and 450 titles encompassing numerous genres including thrillers, military fiction, romance, sci-fi, classics, westerns, fantasy, non-fiction, and more.

The Hanging City
Charlie N. Holmberg, author
Amy Bentley, narrator
Brilliance Audio
https://audiobookstore.com/publishers/brilliance-audio
9798400131561, $29.99, MP3-CD (13 Hours 20 Mintues)

https://www.amazon.com/Hanging-City-Charlie-N-Holmberg/dp/B0BLZ6DZ6D

Synopsis: Seven years on the run from her abusive father, and with no hope of sanctuary among the dwindling pockets of human civilization, Lark is out of options. Her only leverage is a cursed power: she can thrust fear onto others, leaving all threats fleeing in terror. It's a means of survival as she searches for a place to call home. If the campfire myths of her childhood are true, Lark's sole chance for refuge could lie in Cagmar, the city of trolls -- a brutal species and the sworn enemies of humanity.

Valuing combat prowess, the troll high council is intrigued. Lark could be much more useful than the low-caste humans who merely labor in Cagmar. Her gift makes her invaluable as a monster slayer to fight off the unspeakable creatures that torment the trolls' hanging city, suspended from a bridge over an endless dark canyon.

Lark will do anything to make Cagmar her home, but her new role comes with a caveat: use her power against a troll, and she'll be killed. Her loyalty is quickly put to the test when she draws the hatred of a powerful troll who loathes humankind. Still, she finds unexpected friendship in the city and, even more surprisingly, love. But if everything else doesn't undo her, being caught in the arms of a troll surely will.

Now in the fight of her life, Lark has a lot to learn -- about her past, about trust and hope when all seems lost, and above all, about the extraordinary power of fear itself.

Critique: Original, fun, and fascinating, the narrative storytelling skills of Amy Bentley bring author Charlie Holmberg's high fantasy action/adventure novel "The Hanging City" come alive in a true 'theatre of the mind' experience. This complete and unabridged audio book edition from Brilliance Audio is a welcome pick for personal and community library Science Ficton & Fantasy audio book collections.

Editorial Note #1: Charlie N. Holmberg (https://charlienholmberg.com) is an author of fantasy and romance fiction, including the Paper Magician series, the Spellbreaker series, and the Whimbrel House series, and writes contemporary romance under C. N. Holmberg. She is published in more than twenty languages, has been a finalist for a RITA Award and multiple Whitney Awards, and won the 2020 Whitney Award for Novel of the Year: Adult Fiction.

Editorial Note: Amy Bentley (https://www.amymelissabentley.com) is an award winning audiobook narrator and has completed over 200 audiobooks.

The Crying Cave Killings
Wes Markin, author
Aubrey Parsons, narrator
Boldwood Books
c/o Ulverscroft Large Print, Inc.
www.ulverscroft.com
$18.99, MP3-CD (11 Hours 55 Minutes)

https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/the-crying-cave-killings-wes-markin/1143768895

Synopsis: DI Paul Riddick is a man tormented by his own actions and determined to right the wrongs of his past any way he can. But when his instincts lead him to follow a child he believes to be in danger, Riddick gets in deeper than he ever imagined -- especially when the child is found dead.

DCI Emma Gardner doesn't believe Riddick has blood on his hands, but he's off the case until she can clear his name. If she can clear his name. Because Riddick seems determined to chase ghosts that only get him into more trouble.

Riddick's certain he didn't kill the kid in the cave. But he also remembers another case, twenty years ago, with shocking similarities -- which means someone is trying to trap Riddick.

Critique: A murdered child. A case from the past. A detective inspector with nothing to lose. "The Crying Cave Killings" deftly written by novelist Wes Markin and vividly narrated by Aubrey Parsons in this superbly presented, complete and unabridged audio book production from Boldwood Books offers the listener a truly riveting 'theatre of the mind' experience. This edition of "The Crying Cave Killings is especially and unreservedly recommended for both personal and community library Mystery/Suspense audio book collections.

Editorial Note #1: Wes Markin (facebook.com/wesmarkinauthor) is the author of the DCI Yorke crime novels set in Salisbury, England. He is also the author of the Jake Pettman series set in New England.

Strawberried Alive
Jenn McKinlay, author
Susan Boyce, narrator
Dreamscape Media
https://www.dreamscapepublishing.com
9781666540765, $22.99, CD (6 Hours 36 minutes)

https://www.dreamscapepublishing.com/single-audiobook/?titleid=2169

Synopsis: Life is smooth as buttercream at the Fairy Tale Cupcakes bakery, and newlyweds Mel and Joe are stopping to smell the flours. But things start to crumble one night when an unknown gunman takes a shot at Mel. Even though the bullets miss their mark, the cupcake crew goes on high alert to figure out who would want to kill a small-town baker -- and why.

When more business owners are attacked, things turn fatal, and locals begin to wonder if the killer could be one of their own. Every shop owner in town starts to fear it's only a matter of time before they too become victims of the mystery murderer. Despite the cupcake crew's superb baking skills, it will be anything but a piece of cake to catch the killer, as they try to prevent anyone else from being 'berried'.

Critique: Another of author Jenn McKinlay's 'Cupcake Bakery' murder mysteries, "Strawberried Alive" is expertly and effectively narrated by the talented vocal performance of professional storyteller Susan Boyce. The result is a fun and unabridged audio book from Dreamscape Media that is unreservedly recommended to the attention of the growing legions of Jenn McKinlay fans and community library Cozy Mystery audio book collections.

Editorial Note #1: Jenn McKinlay (www.jennmckinlay.com) is the author of several mystery and romance series. She is also the winner of the RT Reviewer's Choice Award for romantic comedy and the Fresh Fiction award for best cozy mystery. A TEDx speaker, she is always happy to talk books, writing, reading, and the creative process to anyone who cares to listen. She can be followed on Facebook: JennMcKinlayAuthor; Instagram: @mckinlayjenn; Twitter: @JennMcKinlay

Editorial Note #2: There is an extensive listing of Susan Boyce narrated audio books at https://www.audible.com/search?searchNarrator=Susan+Boyce

Original Sin
Gavin G. Smith, author
Qarie Marshall, narrator
Dreamscape Media
https://www.dreamscapepublishing.com
9781666623574, $TBD, CD (8 Hours 28 Minutes)

https://www.dreamscapepublishing.com/single-audiobook/?titleid=18824

Synopsis: Uatu the Watcher, a mysterious being who observes mankind from the Moon, is dead. Nick Fury leads a cosmos-spanning investigation into the murder, forging unlikely alliances and sending Marvel's mightiest heroes to the farthest corners of the universe.

To uncover the truth, Doctor Strange and the Punisher must cross deadly dimensions, the Guardians of the Galaxy, Moon Knight and the Winter Soldier head into deep space, and Emma Frost, Ant-Man and Black Panther journey to the center of the Earth. All the while, Unseen forces gather, and just when the Avengers think they've cornered their murderer, everything explodes - unleashing the Marvel Universe's greatest secrets and rocking the heroes to their core!

In this novelization of the epic storyline by Jason Aaron and Mike Deodato Jr., truths will come tumbling into the light and the original sins of our heroes will be exposed for all to see.

Critique: This thrilling Marvel Universe murder mystery written by Galvin G. Smith and so ably narrated by Quarie Marshall comes a fun wealth of shocking plot twists and turns in an exciting re-imagining of the comic crossover sensation. A 'must' for the legions of dedicated Marvel superhero/supervillian fans, this complete and unabridged audio book edition of "Original Sin" from Dreamscape Media is certain to be an immediate and enduringly popular addition to both personal and community library Science Fiction/Fantasy audio book collections.

Editorial Note #1: Jason Aaron (https://www.jasonaaron.info) is an American comic book writer, known for his work on titles such as The Other Side, Scalped, Ghost Rider, Wolverine and PunisherMAX

Editorial Note #2: Quarie Marshall is a prolific audio book narrator who has a lengthy listing of his titles at https://www.goodreads.com/author/list/13475888.Qarie_Marshall

The Water Outlaws
S. L. Huang, author
Emily Woo Zeller, narrator
Dreamscape Media
https://www.dreamscapepublishing.com
9781666634990, $59.99, CD (19 Hours 44 Minutes)

https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/the-water-outlaws-s-l-huang/1141976516

Synopsis: Lin Chong is an expert arms instructor, training the Emperor's soldiers in sword and truncheon, battle axe and spear, lance and crossbow. Unlike bolder friends who flirt with challenging the unequal hierarchies and values of Imperial society, she believes in keeping her head down and doing her job. But then a powerful man with a vendetta rips that carefully-built life away. Disgraced, tattooed as a criminal, and on the run from an Imperial Marshall who will stop at nothing to see her dead, Lin Chong is recruited by the Bandits of Liangshan. Mountain outlaws on the margins of society, the Liangshan Bandits proclaim a belief in justice, for women, for the downtrodden, for progressive thinkers a corrupt Empire would imprison or destroy. They're also murderers, thieves, smugglers, and cutthroats. Apart, they love like demons and fight like tigers. Together, they could bring down an empire.

Critique: Raising an action/adventure heroic fantasy to a stellar level of literary excellence, "The Water Outlaws" by novelist S. L. Huang is brought vividly to life with the simply outstanding storytelling performance of Emily Woo Zeller. This complete and unabridged audio book edition from Dreamscape Media is a particularly special, enduringly popular, and truly memorable addition to personal and community library Fantasy Saga audio book collections.

Editorial Note #1: S.L. Huang (SLHuang.com) is a Hugo-winning author who justifies an MIT degree by using it to write eccentric mathematical superhero fiction. The author of the Cas Russell novels as well as Burning Roses and The Water Outlaws, she has had short fiction published in Analog, F&SF, Nature, and more, including best-of anthologies. She is also a Hollywood stunt performer and firearms expert, with credits including Battlestar Galactica and Top Shot.

Editorial Note #2: Emily Woo Zeller is an Earphones award-winning audiobook narrator. After beginning her voiceover career with Asian animation, she returned to the United States and began narrating a broad spectrum of audiobook genres. Her multilingual, multicultural framework brings a particularly unique, clear-eyed, and intimate perspective to the Asian American narratives she specializes in. (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Emily_Woo_Zeller)

A Nobleman's Guide to Seducing a Scoundrel
K. J. Charles, author
Martyn Swain, narrator
Dreamscape Media
https://www.dreamscapepublishing.com
$17.99, CD (10 Hours 39 Minutes)

https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/a-noblemans-guide-to-seducing-a-scoundrel-kj-charles/1142781666

Synopsis; When Major Rufus d'Aumesty unexpectedly becomes the Earl of Oxney, he finds himself living in a remote Norman manor on the edge of Romney Marsh with his noble, hostile, and decidedly odd family.

His position is contested both by his greedy uncle and by unexpected claimant Luke Doomsday, a dashing member of the local smuggling clan. They should be natural enemies, but cocksure, enragingly competent Luke is a secretary by trade and quickly becomes an unexpected ally, the partner Rufus needs -- and soon the lover he can't live without.

Unfortunately, Luke's not telling anything like the truth. He came to Stone Manor with an ulterior motive, one he's hiding even from the lord he can't resist. And as family secrets unspool on both sides, master and man soon find their positions and their partnership in danger of falling apart.

Critique: Especially commended to the attention of the LGBTQ community, this complete and unabridged audio book edition of novelist K. J. Charles' "A Nobleman's Guide to Seducing a Scoundrel" from Dreamscape Media is deftly narrated by the vocal storytelling talents of Martyn Swain and a highly recommended pick for personal and community library Historical Mystery audio book collections.

Editorial Note #1: KJ Charles (https://kjcharleswriter.com) spent twenty years as an editor in British publishing before fleeing the scene to become a full-time historical romance novelist. She has written over twenty-five novels since then and her books have been translated into eight languages. She lives in London.

Editorial Note #2: Martyn Swain (http://martynswain.com) has for more than 30 years been a simultaneous interpreter, telling other peoples stories in various languages.

Feathers So Vicious
Liv Zander, author
Shaina Summerville, Tor Thom, and Tommy Fuller, narrators
Dreamscape Media
https://www.dreamscapepublishing.com
$17.99, CD (13 Hours 40 Minutes)

https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/feathers-so-vicious-liv-zander/1143867471

Synopsis: Perched between branches and shadows, We watch, we scheme, Fighting for a kingdom forgotten and forlorn. Until we rip her away with our claws, Our prisoner, our pawn, our plaything. She's innocent and pure, Fragile and helpless... ...but oh so guilty by blood. She calls us beasts, Wicked and evil, Vicious and cruel. We are all that and worse. One of us offers her shelter beneath his wings, Whispering promises of pleasure, Seeking redemption. The other longs to shatter her into a million pieces, Whispering promises of pain, Seeking revenge. Caught between our feathers, She endures our deranged desires, Our secrets, our lies, Our twisted plans. Will she surrender to our darkness, or fight for a destiny growing ever elusive?

Welcome to the Court of Ravens, little white dove. "Feathers So Vicious" is a full-length dark fantasy romance novel and the first book in the Court of Ravens duet. The two-part story features two morally gray raven shifters, a young woman at the mercy of their shadows, and a HEA. This world contains dark elements, violence, and themes some may find disturbing. What this book doesn't contain is a hero -- because villains do it better. And two do it better than one.

Critique: Unique, deftly crafted, ably narrated, "Feathers So Vicious" is a compelling, memorable, and fascinating novel by Liv Zander brought vividly to life in a true 'theatre of the mind' experience by the storyteller performances of Shaina Summerville, Tor Thom, and Tommy Fuller in this complete and unabridged audio book edition from Dreamscape Media making it an unreservedly recommended pick for dedicated fantasy fans and community library audio book collections.

Editorial Note #1: Liv Zander (www.LivZander.com) has an unhealthy love for sexy villains. To cure herself of her poor choice in men, she's currently undergoing therapy, but who can afford that these days? To fund her co-pays, she's writing deliciously dark fantasy romance about the men who would burn the world to the ground for their women. Is that counter-productive? Probably, but it's also a lot of fun!

Editorial Note #2: Shaina Summerville (https://www.shainasummerville.com) is a professionally gifted storyteller in a good many mediums.

Editorial Note #3: Tor Thom (https://tantor.com/narrator/tor-thom.html) is an audiobook narrator of romance whose dulcet baritone captures the softness of love and the deep passion of desire.

Editorial Note #4: Tommy Fuller has a lengthy listing of his work on the Audible website at https://www.audible.com/search?searchNarrator=Tom+Fuller

Shards of Light Bundle
William Hahn
Independent Bookworm
B08248V7QC, $22.79 Audio

https://www.amazon.com/Shards-of-Light-Bundle/dp/B08248V7QC

Why listen to the audio version of Shards of Light? In this case, the audio version lends added value not just because it's narrated by author William Hahn, who is intimately familiar, as creator, with every intended nuance of his epic fantasy story, but because the audio version's dramatic flairs lead to understanding and absorption of the tale on a level that print simply can't equal. William Hahn's narration is clear, dramatic, and compelling. It needed to be such, because listening to four books in one audio bundle represents over 22 hours of pleasure (or pain, were it to be read under the wrong voice). Hahn's ability to inject and reflect the underlying dramatic moments and pivot points of the epic fantasy lends a feel to not just the plot, but the characters themselves as he adjusts his voice to capture each character and the interplays between them. As conspirators, seers of the future such as W'starrah Altieri, and new imperial officer Justin, who is just as convinced he has no future, clash, the epic struggles of individuals and kingdoms come alive in audio to bring forth a powerful saga of individuals and traditions on the cusp of change.

From infantry clashes with longbows and the dragging hours of battlefield pauses to "smoking wounds" and the heat of fire arrows and destruction, Hahn brings to life losses for the empire and individuals like as death and slaughter buffet Justin and all around him. The power of an audio version of a book ideally is to bring the story to new life. When this force is applied to a four-book bundle, it takes a strong voice and compelling blend of plot and oral narration to keep readers thoroughly engrossed. The bundled audiobook version of Shards of Light achieves these goals in a manner that sets it heads and shoulders above most fantasy book narratives. What is demanding in print becomes smooth and compelling in audio, making Shards of Light Bundle a top recommendation for those who would listen with baited breath and unflagging interest to an artist as adept at audio drama as he is at putting pen to paper.

The Blanchard Witches of Daihmler County
Micah House
Kendrell Publishing
B0C5KDMDG5, $21.83 Audio

https://www.amazon.com/Blanchard-Witches-Daihmler-County-Book/dp/B0C5KDMDG5

This audiobook version of The Blanchard Witches of Daihmler County by Micah House provides a listening opportunity that profiles narrator Angela Clark's ability to clearly yet powerfully bring a story to vivid listening life.

Readers of the print version will discover, in this audio book format, nuances that perhaps had been missed by the eye. This comes from Clark's ability to dramatize and emphasize passages to help them leap from any printed page and into the mind and visionary imagination of the listener.

"It was a beautiful Saturday afternoon. The 4,430-second Saturday afternoon." Clark's opening lines in the first chapter 'Guess Who's Coming to Dinner' creates an evocative invitation to continue into Micah House's world, where 85-year-old Olympia Blanchard remains of sound mind and refuses to bow to her age.

Under Clark's voice, Alabama history and present-day complications come to life as a family of witches living under one roof find that modern times bring challenges they never foresaw. The quality of this audio is such that even prior print readers should ideally imbibe. The nuances of the story brought to life in audio demonstrate the power of the ear to better understand words and underlying meanings, while the listening experience will enhance any drive or efforts to better absorb the grief, investigative efforts, and pursuits of a clan of witches who become involved in catching a murderer.

Nuances of Southern heritage, history, and culture; a murder mystery; and a band of witches who struggle to survive relationship and life changes come to life in the audio version in a manner that supports House's ability to weave a multifaceted plot of intrigue and psychological depth.

Readers who may have balked at pronouncing some of the characters' names in print have no such limitations in audio, where Clark easily vocalizes the correct names in a clear voice that readers can equally easily understand. The result is unmitigated appreciation for the plot, character development, and psychological twists and turns of a novel replete with fantasy and emotional connections.

Readers who typically eschew audio productions are missing something if they pass on the compelling, exceptionally well-done production of The Blanchard Witches of Daihmler County. Clark's ability to tailor her voice to capture the thoughts and approaches of the story's different characters is not only nicely achieved, but exceptional.

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