Audiobook review of Terminus by Kevin Hardman & Mikael Naramore

Terminus: Fringe Worlds (Book 1) written by Kevin Hardman & narrated by Mikael Naramore. 5*
BLURB: Master Sergeant Gant Maker was a highly decorated and well-respected marine - until his last mission left him as the sole survivor of an encounter with a vicious race called the Vacra. Served up as a scapegoat and drummed out of the military, he has since lived a life of seclusion with only an adopted alien as a companion.
Now the Vacra have returned. As the only person to have ever faced them and survived, Maker is reinstated in the corps and given the onerous task of finding this enemy on a world located at the edge of known space. Assisting him is an unlikely band of military rejects, including a blind sharpshooter, an unstable psychic, and a genetically engineered killing machine who refuses to fight.
Given that the Vacra have superior weapons and technology, Maker recognizes that his team is at a distinct disadvantage. But marines are nothing if not resourceful, and Maker has an audacious plan that just may level the playing field - if it doesn't get them all killed.
Length: 8 hrs and 18 mins

My Review: “I was voluntarily provided this free review copy audiobook by the author, narrator, or publisher.” I said yes to reviewing this because I can never get enough really good, military style, Science Fiction stories, and I had never read anything by this author,so thought it worth trying. I am so glad I did, it was a wonderful story and I hated having to pause it to go to bed. I really liked the realistic feel to the military aspects and the aliens were all well thought out. In fact after Maker my favourite Character was his alien sidekick. As for the narrator, I truly loved his style and all the distinctive Character voices he used, he really brought the story to life.

I noticed that there was a book 2 on audible and, as soon as I have a new credit, I am probably going to buy it so that I can see what kind of adventure the author and narrator are going to take me on next.

Audiobook Review of Prototype D by Jason D. Morrow & James Foster.

Prototype D (Prototype D #1) written by Jason D. Morrow & narrated by James Foster(Narrator) 4*
BLURB: A hundred years after the world is decimated by nuclear wars, humanity has been reduced to one surviving city of people called Mainlanders. They have food, water, and a wall that separates them from their enemies—the Outlanders.
Branded as savages, the Outlanders have grown in number and their attacks against the city have become more brutal. Increasingly, they threaten to overtake the city, bringing with them the doom and destruction that has plagued mankind for over a century. What the Mainlanders need is a weapon.
Des is the first robot created with a full range of human emotions. His reasoning skills and thought processes will make it so no human will ever have to step foot on the battlefield again. But when Des realizes his true purpose—to help destroy the Outlanders—he suspects that the real enemies might not be the people he was built to destroy, but those who created him.

My Review: “I was voluntarily provided this free review copy audiobook by the author, narrator, or publisher.” If it hadn't been for the very nice voice of the narrator I might have given up on this book and that would have been a shame. After the slight dragging at the beginning I really enjoyed this and felt it had a touch of Asimov in the robot's personality and reasoning. But it wasn't a blind copying of the master's works rather it is a lovely modern take on how humans and robots might end up interacting after an apocalypse. I definitely recommend this to anyone who likes a well written and narrated story about human and robot interaction or who just likes a truly in depth science fiction about the human psyche and how to duplicate what makes us human.

Audio Book Review of Falling Down by Eli Easton & Michael Stellman

Falling Down Written by Eli Easton & Naratted by Michael Stellman 5*
BLURB: Josh finds himself homeless at eighteen, but he has a plan. He’ll head north on the bus to New England and spend October there for his mother’s sake. She always talked about going to see the fall leaves someday. And when the leaves are done and the harsh winter comes, Josh plans to find a place to curl up and let go. It will be a relief to finally stop fighting.
Mark spent his life trying to live up to the tough swagger of his older brothers until he pushed himself so far against his nature that he cracked. Now a former Marine, he rents a little cabin in the White Mountains of New Hampshire where he can lick his wounds and figure out what to do with the rest of his life. One thing was clear: Mark was nobody’s hero.
Fate intervenes when Josh sets up camp under a covered bridge near Mark’s cabin. Mark recognizes the dead look in the young stranger’s eyes, and he feels compelled to do something about it. When Mark offers Josh a job, he never expects that he’ll be the one to fall.
The snow is coming soon. Can Mark convince Josh that the two of them can build a life together before the flurries begin?
Trigger Warning: Suicidal thoughts

My Review: On 29th November 2016 I posted this about the ebook version- As usual Eli didn't disappoint and the story was riveting. It gave me hope and tears in equal measure and in between it gave me humour and compassion. I had trouble putting it down because I was so invested in Josh and Mark and the hope that there would be a happy end. It isn't too much of a spoiler to admit there was *what was I expecting from Eli? There's always happy endings!* I highly recommend this story to you if you like Eli Easton's work or if you enjoy a truly well written story about two guys finding their happy ending after a tumultuous start.
Today I finished listening to the audio version and all I can say is it's a pity I can't give more than 5* ratings, as the story was even more moving and enjoyable to listen to Michael narrate it. If you haven't yet read this story and like listening to audio books I highly suggest you go buy this one and treat yourself to 7.5 hours of pure bliss.

Audiobook Review of Birthright by Rick Partlow & Evan Harris

Birthright (The Birthright Series #1) Written by Rick Partlow & Narrated by Evan Harris DNF
BLURB:Caleb Mitchell is a human weapon, engineered into a biologically-enhanced killing machine in the war with the alien Tahni.
The war is long over and now he just wants to live a normal life as a constable on his homeworld of Canaan...but his life is torn apart when a Corporate Council mineral scout comes to him with a tale of discovering incredibly advanced alien technology from the fabled race known only as the Predecessors.
Someone in the monolithic, power-hungry Corporate Council doesn't want that story to get out...and they'll kill anyone to stop it, including Caleb and his family.

My Review: “I was voluntarily provided this free review copy audiobook by the author.” I can't believe this, but I actually could not finish this one. Partly it was because it seems more like it was aimed at teenage boys who like all sorts of 'hitech' most of which seems pretty far-fetched  and lots of action and partly because of some of the behaviour of the main character. I hate giving spoilers but to explain myself I will have to [The man cheats on his wife and doesn't seem to feel any remorse and I am a 60 yr old woman who believes in fidelity even in my fiction. Go sue me!]. However the narrator is not to blame for my dislike of the book as he was doing a superb job keeping me listening until that pivotal moment when I gave up on it.

Audiobook Review of Alpha Heat by Leta Blake & Michael Ferraiolo

Alpha Heat (Heat of Love #2) written by Leta Blake & narrated by Michael Ferraiuolo by Leta Blake & Michael Ferraiuolo 2*
BLURB: A desperate young alpha. An older alpha with a hero complex. A forbidden love that can’t be denied.

Young Xan Heelies knows he can never have what he truly wants: a passionate romance and happy-ever-after with another alpha. It’s not only forbidden by the prevailing faith of the land, but such acts are illegal.

Urho Chase is a middle-aged alpha with a heartbreaking past. Careful, controlled, and steadfast, his friends dub him old-fashioned and staid. When Urho discovers a dangerous side to Xan’s life that he never imagined, his world is rocked and he’s consumed by desire. The carefully sewn seams that held him together after the loss of his omega and son come apart—and so does he.

But to love each other and make a life together, Xan and Urho risk utter ruin. With the acceptance and support of Caleb, Xan’s asexual and aromantic omega and dear friend, they must find the strength to embrace danger and build the family they deserve.

This gay romance novel by Leta Blake is the second in the Slow Heat universe. It’s 130,000 words, with a strong happy ending and a well-crafted, non-shifter Omegaverse. It features alphas, betas, omegas, male pregnancy, heat, and knotting. No cheating. Content warning for brief sexual violence.

My Review: I was voluntarily provided this free review copy audiobook in exchange for an honest review. This was supposed to have been a stand alone read even though it's book 2 of a series. However I felt a lot of it didn't need to be there making it far too long, even with the lovely voice of Michael Ferraiuolo to listen to. In fact that and the hot sex scenes are the only reason I gave it 2* and not a DNF. As the book has a lot of five star ratings on Goodreads and Amazon I must assume it was just me and that this was just not my kind of book.

Reviewing the Audiobook Midshipman Henry Gallant by H. Peter Alesso & Rich Miller.

Midshipman Henry Gallant in Space (The Henry Gallant Saga, Book 1) written by H. Peter Alesso and narrated by Rich Miller 4*
BLURB: Follow the career of a young officer in the 22nd-century genetically engineered space navy.
As the last star fighter in squadron 111, Midshipman Henry Gallant is on his way from Jupiter to Mars. With the United Planets' fleet on the verge of annihilation, he can expect no help as he passes through the asteroid belt and threatening aliens. With so much uncertainty about the aliens' capabilities and intentions, analyzing the captured computer equipment in Gallant's possession could prove crucial. The fate of Earth could rest on the abilities of Midshipman Henry Gallant. Unfortunately, it is his abilities that have been much in doubt during his tour of duty.
In an era of genetic engineering, he is the only Natural (non-genetically enhanced) officer left in the fleet. His classmates and superior officers have all expressed their concern that he will not be up to the demands of the space service.
Only bright and attractive junior officer Kelsey Mitchel has shown any sympathy for him. Now as his navigator on the last fighter in squadron 111, her life as well as a good many others, depends on Henry Gallant.

My Review: “I was voluntarily provided this free review copy audiobook by the author.” This author's work struck me as a combination of two authors I really enjoy reading. One is David Weber and his Honorverse with all the information about spaceships, battles and such. The other is Robert A. Heinlein and his book Space Cadet with it's very 50's style emphasis on the young spaceman doing what's right. The Characters were well drawn and the adventures were well thought out, with Rich Miller doing a superb job of the narration.

Audiobook Review of Sin of Mages by A.J. Martinez & Tim Hilborne

Sin of Mages (Rift of Chaos, Book 1) written by A.J. Martinez & Narrated by Tim Hilborne 3*
BLURB:For many years Akielas traveled the world of Odealeous in search of the masked apprentices that betrayed him. When he finally found them and learned of their malice plot, he was overwhelmed with guilt and remorse of his past. He was willing to do whatever it took to stop them from using the remnants of the dragon gods. His apprentices already got their hands on one of the cosmo remnants and Akielas feared what they would do if they found all four.
Whenever he found them they would disappear into dark smoke and leave behind a trail of destruction. However, fate has linked the Specters to Akielas' allies throughout the world. His allies, scarred by the catastrophe of the Specter swear to rid the world of the masked ghouls.
The strongest warrior mages assembled from different countries and joined Akielas. With swordplay, elemental and summoning magic, they pledged to defeat the Specters and unlock mysteries and magic that had been hidden and forgotten.
As they encounter the Specters throughout the world, Akielas' allies fear that he is unable to spill the blood of his own apprentices.

My Review: “I was voluntarily provided this free review copy audiobook by the author, narrator, or publisher.” I hate to say this but I think I would have enjoyed the story so much more if someone else had narrated it. I found the hyped up dramatic execution rather like being a kid having it read to them by a parent. However it wasn't just the narrator at fault, the author didn't help matters either because a lot of the characters didn't seem to have any true depth to them. I ended up giving it 3* mainly because the concept was fairly good, it was not too bad overall, and it did keep me company whilst alone in the house.

Audiobook review of Dawn of Procyon by Mark R. Healey & Travis Baldree

Dawn of Procyon: Distant Suns, Book 1 Written by: Mark R. Healy & Narrated by: Travis Baldree 4*
BLURB:A distant planet. A deadly secret.
Seventeen years after it began, the interstellar war has taken its toll: the inhabitants of Earth are desperate to find a way to defeat the Argoni, a merciless and horrifying alien race.
Light-years away from the fighting, mechanic Landry Stanton lives a peaceful, mundane life on the desolate planet Procyon One, and that's just the way he likes it. But when an unauthorized trip to the other side of the planet leaves him shipwrecked and stranded alongside a hostile alien that wants him dead, Landry discovers a terrifying secret: The Argoni threat is greater than anyone back on Earth imagined.
With his oxygen and water running out, and with no way to warn the United Earth Marines, Landry's lonely fight for survival becomes a battle for humanity itself.
My Review: “I was voluntarily provided this free review copy audiobook by the author, narrator, or publisher.” This seems like a great book for fans of The Martian or other such 'seat of the pants survival in hostile enviroments' stories. This one has the added advantage of also having alien enemies to try and defeat whilst trying to survive in that hostile enviroment. I certainly enjoyed listening to it. Travis Baldree has the kind of voice that keeps you chained to your seat and unwilling to move in case you miss something exciting. I only have one major issue with it, but it's a good thing I knew from the title that it was part of a series, because it finished with too much of the story still to go - not exactly a cliffhanger but almost one.

Audiobook Review of Necromancer's Dilemma by SJ Himes

Necromancer's Dilemma (The Beacon Hill Sorcerer #2) by S J Himes, narrated by Joel Leslie 4*
BLURB: Even love can die without trust.
Angel's brother, Isaac, has returned home, and the pair begins to make slow and awkward attempts back to each other. Learning how to be a brother to a grown man instead of a parental figure has Angel adjusting his behaviors and habits, and Isaac still remains a mystery. Was it merely entering adulthood that turned Isaac away from an overprotective Angel, or does Isaac carry a secret that will keep them from finally being a real family?
Daniel Macavoy, Angel's new apprentice, is torn between his bond with Angel and the grasping machinations of his father. Dealing with a traumatized apprentice with dangerous holes in his magical education, saving Daniel may be harder than Angel first thought - especially since the biggest problem is not revenge, but guilt.
The one shining beacon in his life is Simeon, Elder vampire of Boston's only Bloodclan. Four hundred years old and sexy as sin, Simeon is warrior and sage, patient and cunning. The strength Angel draws from Simeon's devotion and the newborn mate-bond between them is steadfast and true - and the fount of death magic that animates the undead lord places Angel in the midst of a power struggle for control over himself, his lover, and his family.
Through it all, Angel is beleaguered by the unwanted attention of a troll-hybrid, the adventures of a dragon in the city, and a serial killer has decided to hunt the back alleys and midnight streets of Boston.
Contains male/male sexual content. Violence, gore, sex, vampires. A cute dragon and some snark. Okay, lots of snark.

My Review: I loved this book. The author wrote a wonderful, interesting story and the narrator brought it to life with passion that was felt with every word - there's a reason he is one of my favourite narrators. I really hate having to wait for book 3 (at least I hope there will be a book 3) but, until then, I shall search out more SJ Himes or Joel Leslie stuff.

Audiobook Review of The Rancher's Son by RJ Scott - Narrated by Sean Crisden.

The Rancher's Son (Montana #2) written by R.J. Scott narrated by Sean Crisden 5*
BLURB: A man without memories, and the cop who never gave up hope.
When he wakes up in hospital, the victim of a brutal beating, John Doe, has no memories of who he is or who hurt him. The cops can find nothing to identify him and he can't remember anything to help... except the name Ethan and one recurring place from his dreams. Three words, and they're not much, but it's a start. Crooked Tree Ranch.
Cop, Ethan Allens has never stopped searching for his brother and his brother's best friend who vanished. When a report lands on Ethan's desk that may give new leads he jumps at the chance to follow them up. The man he finds isn't his brother, but it's someone who could maybe help him discover what happened ten years ago.
What neither man can know is that facing the very real demons of the past could very well destroy any kind of future they may think they have together.

My Review: I received a free copy in exchange for an honest review. I haven't read or listened to the first book in this series but that didn't matter much as the story stands nicely on it's own. I am certainly going to get hold of book one (and however many books are after it in the series) as it was such a good story. I loved the mystery and the romance in equal measures and hope to find out more in the subsequent books. This one had twists and turns to suit any mystery fan and plenty of really great secondary characters to please the reader. The two main characters each have their own POV and Sean Crisden does a wonderful job of making them uniquely individual and, as usual, had a lovely narrative style to keep the listener interested.

Snowed In Audiobook with an exclusive excerpt & giveaway.

Title: Snowed In

Author: Teodora Kostova

Release Date: November 14th 2016

Genre: Audiobook, Contemporary MM Romance

BLURB

Be careful what you wish for...

Nate has been in love with Quinn, his brother’s best friend, for as long as he can remember. But when he finally gets the chance to show Quinn how he feels, his heart gets broken in the most unexpected way.

Second chances come when you least expect them...

Quinn doesn’t believe in miracles, especially not Christmas ones. When he decides to win Nate back he knows it won’t be easy. The last thing he expects is a health scare, a road trip and a vicious snow storm to work in his favor.

In the end, a cabin in the woods turns out to be not only the shelter they desperately need, but also Quinn's very own Christmas miracle.

Sometimes, to forgive, you need to get snowed in…

Buy Links: Audible | Amazon US | Amazon UK

Goodreads

Book Trailer:

EXCERPT

Nate drove the first stretch until they stopped for gas two hours later. The cold seeped through Quinn’s skin when he got out of the car. The temperature was much lower than usual for this time of the year in Utah. The sky was dark, the sun barely breaching the thick curtain of cloud.

The storm was coming, and fast, if the huge, black clouds in the distance were any indication. The wind was getting stronger, too, making Quinn shiver as he pumped gas into the car.

“Fuck,” Nate swore when he opened the door and stepped out of the car, stretching his arms above his head, then immediately wrapping them around his body. They both wore only thin cotton shirts, the heating in the car keeping them warm. “Looks like the fucking apocalypse is coming,” he added, jerking his chin towards the sky. “I’m going inside to get us coffee and snacks. Do you want anything specific?”

“Whatever you get is fine.”

The weather got even worse when they hit the road again. It was Quinn's turn to drive and he had to grip the steering wheel harder than usual to keep the car steady on the road against the strong wind. They were passing by Cedar City when it started to snow.

Not the fluffy, festive, making-kids-happy snow either. The snow that was hitting the windshield was vicious. Pieces of ice flew into the car, hitting it in every direction, making a sound so loud that Quinn worried they’d take Brandon’s car back to Denver full of tiny holes.

The wind didn’t let up, either. Handling the car grew more and more difficult. Quinn's heart clenched with fear.

“Fucking hell,” Nate said, looking out the window. “This isn’t good, Quinn.”

“No kidding,” Quinn murmured, not daring to lift his eyes off the icy road for a second. Despite the strong wind the snow was already piling on the road.

“What are we going to do? We can’t make it to Denver in this weather.” Nate sounded worried, his knee bouncing up and down in Quinn's peripheral vision.

About the Author

Hi, my name is Teodora and I live in London with my husband and my son. I've been writing ever since I can remember, but it became my full time job a few years ago when I decided that everything else I've tried bores me to death and I have to do what I've always wanted to do, but never had the guts to fully embrace. I've been a journalist, an editor, a personal assistant and an interior designer among other things, but as soon as the novelty of the new, exciting job wears off, I always go back to writing. Being twitchy, impatient, loud and hasty are not qualities that help a writer, because I have to sit alone, preferably still, and write for most of the day, but I absolutely love it. It's the only time that I'm truly at peace and the only thing I can do for more than ten minutes at a time - my son has a bigger attention span than me.

When I'm procrastinating, I like to go to the gym, cook Italian meals (and eat them), read, listen to rock music, watch indie movies and True Blood re-runs. Or, in the worst case scenario, get beaten at every Nintendo Wii game by a very inventive kid.

Don't be shy and get in touch - I love connecting with my readers.

Author Links: Blog | Facebook | Twitter | Instagram

★★GIVEAWAY: for a chance to win
3 x Snowed In audiobooks,
3 x Snowed In ebooks,
1 SIGNED Snowed In paperback (International)
and a $5 Amazon giftcard!!!★★

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Blog Stops:

December 1st - Socially Awkward Book Nerd | The Blogger Girls | Nerd Girl Official | Dawn’s Reading Nook

December 2nd - Scattered Thoughts and Rogue Words | Outrageous Heroes

December 3rd - Love Bytes Reviews

December 5th - Making It Happen | BFD Book Blog | MM Good Book Reviews | My Fiction Nook

December 6th - The Purple Rose Tea House

December 7th - Addison Albright | MJs Book Blog and Reviews

December 8th - Because Two Men are Better Than One | Bayou Book Junkie

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December 12th - Prism Book Alliance | Drops of Ink

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December 14th - All in One Place

December 15th - Happily Ever Chapter | Sinfully Gay Romance | Velvet Panic

December 16th - TTC Books and More | Fangirl Moments and My Two Cents | Triple A

Snowed In by Teodora Kostova, 
Narrated by Dan Rider 4*  Listening Length: 3 hours and 8 minutes

BLURB: Nate has been in love with Quinn, his brother's best friend, for as long as he can remember. But when he finally gets the chance to show Quinn how he feels, his heart gets broken in the most unexpected way.Quinn doesn't believe in miracles, especially not Christmas ones. When he decides to win Nate back he knows it won't be easy. The last thing he expects is a health scare, a road trip and a vicious snow storm to work in his favor. In the end, a cabin in the woods turns out to be not only the shelter they desperately need, but also Quinn's very own Christmas miracle. 

My Review: I don't have a lot to say about  the book other than it is absolutely wonderful and Dan Rider does a really great job of narrating it. The story is both sweet and heart breaking and you really just need to get a copy to listen to for yourself, or buy the book and read it, you won't be sorry that you did!. 

N.B. If you want a chance to win either one of 3 x Snowed In audiobooks, 3 x Snowed In ebooks, 1 SIGNED Snowed In paperback (International) ,or a $5 Amazon gift card, come visit me here on 9th December @ 7am and take part in the Blog Tour for Snowed In.

An Audio Book Review of Troy Hallewell's The Land of Falling Stars.

Title: The Land of Falling Stars 
Author: Troy Hallewell 
Narrator: Troy Hallewell

• Length: 1 hr and 16 mins 
• Publisher: Asgard Publishing

My Rating: 3*
Synopsis: 
Long ago the earth changed. Billions died. Cities crumbled and civilization as we know it perished.
But humanity's drive to live is a stubborn thing, and in the ashes of the old world a new world was reborn. Born of bullets, battle-hardened men and woman scratched out a life on the empty plains of the land now known only as "The Waste". But in a world where every day is a fight for survival a full belly is a luxury, and living long enough to see another rising sun is a success.
In The Land of Falling Stars join young Rock Wanderer as he travels the Waste searching for his mother and doing what it takes to stay alive, all while deciding just what sort of a man he wants to grow into.
If he lives long enough to become a man at all, that is.

My Review: I received a copy from the author/narrator in exchange for an honest review. This was my first foray into Troy Hallewell's After Civilisation series and I enjoyed it for the most part. It was just two sections long and the story was well told. It had a fair bit of depth for an hour and a quarter's worth of listening but for me it was spoiled by the music and singer between the sections. This is just a personal preference for my audiobooks to be all narration as I like to hear it the way I would read it without musical interruptions (also the reason I marked it down to 3*). If you have already read RazorWire: After Civilization, Book 1 you will have already met the main character as this is a short story told from when he is still a young boy. I know I will be getting an audio copy of RazorWire as soon as I have credits to spare :D

Release Blitz Tour for Audio Book of Lucian by Bethany-Kris

LUCIAN by Bethany-Kris

Filthy Marcellos #1

Narrated by: John Thrust

Listening Length: 13 hours and 26 minutes

Version: Unabridged

Publication Date: August 17, 2016

Genres: Adult, Audiobook, Mafia Romance, Organized Crime

BUY:

Amazon Audible: http://amzn.to/2bKP6g6

Audible: http://adbl.co/2b8NJn1

iTunes: http://apple.co/2b1HlgH

Synopsis:

 Lucian Marcello is aware of the expectations following him as the oldest son of one of North America’s most infamous Cosa Nostra Dons. Family in his world is more than blood and sharing a last name. It’s the honor, respect, business, and the life. Being a Capo is just a stepping stone until it’s time for him to take on the role of underboss but a chance meeting with her could be the one thing he’d risk it all for.

She is exactly what he didn’t know he was looking for.

Jordyn Reese spends her time trying to stay under the radar of a man who wouldn’t think twice about killing her. Unwillingly affiliated with a dangerous MC gang, her life is dominated by the men surrounding her and her future rests solely in how useful she can be for them. The last thing she needs is some Mafioso gaining her more unwanted attention from the club.

He is everything she should stay away from but can’t.

Notoriously violent when it comes to getting what he wants, Lucian will stop at nothing to make the target on Jordyn’s back disappear. But sometimes the worst threats are the ones you can’t see until it’s too late. The truth behind Lucian’s history is about to take center stage in more ways than one, and it’ll either save him … or kill him.

This world leaves everyone a little filthy.

Filthy Marcellos, Book One

***

Filthy Marcellos: La Cosa Nostra is not just a choice of regime and routine, it’s a culture. Born as mafia royalty, the Marcello brothers were raised ingrained with the beliefs and rules of what it meant to be a Mafioso prince. It is for life. Their status is considered a given right. They will always be these people. They will always be Marcellos.

LUCIAN: AUDIO EXCERPT 

ABOUT BETHANY-KRIS

Bethany-Kris is a Canadian author, lover of much, and mother to three young sons, one cat, and two dogs. A small town in Eastern Canada where she was born and raised is where she has always called home. With her boys under her feet, snuggling cat, barking dogs, and a hubby calling over his shoulder, she is nearly always writing something … when she can find the time.

To keep up-to-date with new releases from Bethany-Kris, sign up to her New Release Newsletter here: http://eepurl.com/bf9lzD

Website • Blog • Twitter • Facebook • Goodreads • Pinterest • Mailing List • Amazon Author Page

ABOUT JOHN THRUST (NARRATOR)

I wanted to be an actor as far back as I can remember, but I was never attracted to the lifestyle.

In school whenever the teacher asked someone else to read aloud I remember often thinking, “You’re not reading it right, let me do it”.

In college my communication degree required that I take oral interpretation classes. I took first and second level classes and crushed them.

I ended up in radio. A comprise, of sorts, to acting. I did the commercials and loved doing goofy character voices; sexy huh?

During that time I did a local theater production and the director said I should go to the big city and get working.

Sometime later I auditioned to train for The Second City’s touring group. I got in and was doing well… but… the lifestyle.

I’ve been dabbling in voice acting for many years and have been recording audio books along the way and so… here I am. 

I’m OK with the lifestyle.

I do hope folks like what they hear and to all those who listen I say, “thank you!”

jT

FIND JOHN THRUST ON AUDIBLE! JUST CLICK THE BUTTON BELOW!

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A quiet week bookwise

I've not read a lot as I've been busy with my crocheting and listening to music or audiobooks. I finished all the lapghans for my girls and this is what they look like


I also managed to reach the end of part 7 on both Sophie's Universe blankets



On the book side of things this is a list of what I've read

Foolish Encounters : A Rainbow Gold Anthology by Amy Lane, Angel Martinez, Tali Spencer, Tinnean, Elin Gregory, J C Wallacem and Freddy MacKay 5*

FairySmacked (Blood-Hound Book 1) by Declan Sands 4*

Love Comes Around (Senses, #4) by Andrew Grey 4*

Soldier Mine (Thresl Chronicles, #1) by Amber Kell 4*

A Tiny Matchmaker for Two Star-Crossed Mates (Lone Wolf Pack, #6.1)by Anya Byrne 3*

Taking Inventory, a Hammer story by Sean Michael 2*

I also finished listening to Alpha Trine by Lexi Ander Narrated by Michael Steillman 5* and Pony (Guards of Folsom, #3) by S.J.D. Peterson Narrated by Rusty Topsfield 5*

I've been a little busy. . .

. . and have therefore not updated on all the books I've read or listened to since the 12th. My sincere apologies and I'll try not to leave it so long next time.

I've been doing a lot of crocheting as well as reading so I'll post some pics of the stuff I've made under my list of books.

e-books I've read:
Always Masked by Megan Derr 4*
Behind the Mask by Megan Derr 4*
Dead Heat (Alpha & Omega, #4) by Patricia Briggs 5*
Cinder and Char: Silver Slipper Collection by Angelique Voisen 2*
Backwoods Beast by Claire Cray 2*
Finder Tolan by Megan 4*
Ink and Paper by Megan Derr 4*
Wizard's Moon by Josh Lanyon 2*
Axel's Pup (Werewolves & Dragons, #1) by Kim Dare 4*
A Suitable Replacement(Deceived, #5) Megan Derr 4*
An Intrepid Trip to Love (A Little Bite of Love #1) Charlie Cochet 5*
The Fire of a Lone Wolf's Heart(Lone Wolf Pack Ripples, #3) by Anya Byrne 3*
The Perfect Valentine's Day by Charlie Cochet 4*
His to Rescue (Alateeka Protection Services, #3) by Alice Cain 3*
Velvet Diamonds by Sean Michael 3*
How to Howl at the Moon (Howl At The Moon, #1)by Eli Easton 4*
Quinn's Gambit (AURA, #1) by Angel Martinez 4*

Audio books I've listened to:
Going Grey by Karen Traviss Narrated by Euan Morton 5*
Upside Down (Bronco's Boys #2)by Andrew Grey Narrated by John Solo 4*
Mind Magic (Triad Book 1) by Poppy Dennison Narrated by Robert G. Davis 4*
Body Magic (Triad Book 2 by by Poppy Dennison Narrated by Robert G. Davis 4*

My Crochet Projects



The two on the top are my Sophie's Universe blankets the pattern of which can be found here and the one underneath is the first of five various coloured lapghans I am making for my girls (my daughter and the four partners to my sons).

I also made this for #100womenproject.

Reviewing an audible book

Audio Book: Strange Brew by Patricia Briggs, Jim Butcher, Rachel Caine, Karen Chance, P. N. Elrod, Charlaine Harris, Faith Hunter, Caitlin Kittredge, Jenna Maclane
Narrated By: Jennifer Van Dyck, Christian Rummel, Gayle Hendrix, Dina Pearlman, Marc Vietor, Therese Plummer, Karen Chapman
Narration: 5* Stories: 5*
My Review:
I don't think there was a single short story I didn't like and I really enjoyed hearing stories from new to me authors who piqued my interest in their other books.In fact I had half the authors on my like list before listening to this, but now I have to say the other half are going to go on my to-be-bought list too.

Goodreads link to book info Audible link to book

Catching up.

I've been so-so about reading lately spending a lot of my time enjoying being back home with Maddy, that was one excited dog when I got back but now if I go out without her she behaves as if I was away for days again :D

So what about my book life you ask? Well I listened to:

Audio Book: Unthinkable: Tate Pack Series, Book 1 by: Vicktor Alexander Narrated by: Sean Crisden Narration: 5* Story: 4*
Plus a relistened to three other books.

I've also read about 11 books since the last update the best of which has to bet he one I finished today:

Hell & High Water (THIRDS #1) by Charlie Cochet 4*
BLURB: When homicide detective Dexter J. Daley’s testimony helps send his partner away for murder, the consequences—and the media frenzy—aren’t far behind. He soon finds himself sans boyfriend, sans friends, and, after an unpleasant encounter in a parking garage after the trial, he’s lucky he doesn’t find himself sans teeth. Dex fears he’ll get transferred from the Human Police Force’s Sixth Precinct, or worse, get dismissed. Instead, his adoptive father—a sergeant at the Therian-Human Intelligence Recon Defense Squadron otherwise known as the THIRDS—pulls a few strings, and Dex gets recruited as a Defense Agent.
Dex is determined to get his life back on track and eager to get started in his new job. But his first meeting with Team Leader Sloane Brodie, who also happens to be his new jaguar Therian partner, turns disastrous. When the team is called to investigate the murders of three HumaniTherian activists, it soon becomes clear to Dex that getting his partner and the rest of the tightknit team to accept him will be a lot harder than catching the killer—and every bit as dangerous.

My Review: This first book in a new series was so good I was delighted that I had listened to other readers and bought books two and three already. I can't wait to start the next one and read more about Dex, Sloane and all the others in the team.
This was a laugh out loud, and yet at the same time a sit on the edge of your seat, kind of book with plenty of action and humour well mixed with some really interesting characters. The concept is good and excellently done and I highly recommend it to anyone who isn't turned off by m/m interaction or humour and mayhem in their books.

A week since last update

and I have read a fair few books and listened to some great audio books.

Mostly though I've been getting ready for Christmas and my trip across to Essex to see my middle son and his Wife-to-be. Roll on October 2015 to be able to call her daughter for real.

I don't usually do more than rate audio books but today I want to recommend one I've been listening to lately.

Audio Book: Koban, Book 1 Written by: Stephen W. Bennett Narrated by: Patrick Freeman Length: 25 hrs and 24 mins
BLURB: We colonized seven hundred planets. Humankind enjoyed the benefits of expansion and the end of wars. We disbanded our military.
Then the Krall found us.
The Krall have used thousands of years of combat to select the genes of the strongest and fastest warriors. They are a species determined to dominate the galaxy, through annihilation or enslavement of every opponent.
Koban is an uninhabited high gravity planet with impossibly fast savage animals, which employ organic superconducting nerves. This deadly world is where the Krall are testing humans for fighting capability. We are useful only if we can fight well. If not, they will destroy us swiftly, as they have other species. They have slaves, and we're poor tasting meat animals, so we fight or die. The Krall will use us, if worthy, seeking physical perfection through attrition of war, one planet at a time.
Growing weary of our failures in testing, the ruthless Krall are on the verge of a decision to eliminate our species. A ship carrying bio-scientists is captured for combat testing. The choice for Captain Mirikami and the scientists is simple: Prove we can produce better, smarter fighters quickly, or humanity is doomed to rapid extermination.
But the Krall are only half the problem. We must survive Koban's gravity and superfast animals. The tiger-like rippers with skin contact telepathy are predators too fast and powerful for the Krall to face. Our solution is genetic: If you can't beat them as you are, become human rippers.
The Krall will learn another species can bypass natural selection.

My Review: The sound effects really enhanced the listening enjoyment of this book but mostly the storyline had me hooked. So much so that for once I was carrying my Kindle Fire on dog walks and whilst doing dishes etc. instead of using my laptop to listen to it. Since then I have started to listen to Book 2 Mark of Koban and it threw me at first as it has a different narrator and no sound effects, but again, the story is so intense that it soon made no difference and yet again I am carrying the Kindle every where so that I don't miss a moment of the story.

World Aids Day

Today the daughter and I did our bit to promote World Aids Day by yarn bombing a miner statue in Cardiff City centre :D

if you look carefully you cna see his little red ribbon on his tophat and the tag hanging down with the information on it :D


So on to other book related stuff. I have not been reviewing since Friday but I have read a lot of books and am doing exceptionally well on my Goodreads Reading Challenge I have also listened to a fair few audio books.

Audio Book: Creature Feature by: Mary Calmes and Poppy Dennison Narrated by: Jeff Gelder Narration: 4* Story 1: 5* Story 2: 4*
Audio Book: Dark Desire: Dark Series, Book 2 by: Christine Feehan Narrated by: Abby Craden Narration: 5* Story: 5*
Audio Book: Sinnerman by: Mary Calmes Narrated by: Andrew Schwartz Narration:5* Story: 5*
Audio Book: Nexus by: Mary Calmes Narrated by: Andrew Schwartz Narration:5* Story: 5*
Audio Book: Cherish Your Name by: Mary Calmes Narrated by: Andrew Schwartz Narration:5* Story: 5*