Daniel Wms

My first book by Kay Bratt--I look forward to more

Revisado: 05-28-20

This was my first book by Kay Bratt and narrated by Kate Rudd, but it won't be my last. The story drew me in, and to Ms Bratt's credit, she allowed it to unfold, like petals of a flower wrapping the story beautifully. The protagonist's character grew, throughout. Some of the other characters felt less fleshed out to me, and, alas, much of the dialogue felt "on the nose." I also wondered whether the story might have been stronger if written in 1st person, rather than 3rd.
I enjoyed the narration, especially the female characters. The male characters felt a bit pushed, to me. All in all, however, I thoroughly enjoyed "Wish Me Home," and I look forward to my next book by Kay Bratt and narrated by Kate Rudd. Thank you, Ladies, for a heartfelt story well told.

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Exceptional Book soon to be a major feature film!

Revisado: 09-19-19

"News of the World" is one of my favorite audiobooks! I've just relistened to it in anticipation of an upcoming feature film, starring Tom Hanks, that is based on the book. The protagonist, Captain Jefferson Kyle Kidd, is originally from Ballground, Georgia, a small town in North Georgia which I visited many times, as a boy, and still have family living, nearby. Captain Kidd is a war hero and, now elderly, a man of honor and integrity. His character and his relationship with Johanna, the vivacious young heroine of the story, helps restore my faith in humanity and sets an example that I aspire to, personally.
This is an exceptionally well written and narrated story. The related novel, "The Color of Lightning," is exceptional, as well!
Her upcoming novel "Simon the Fiddler" is another related novel that I'll pre-order.
Thank you Paulette Jiles! Thank you Grover Gardner! Thank you Audible.com! Two thumbs up! Way up!
And, for anyone wanting to know more about the movie go to IMDb.com and check out "News of the World." Here's the link: https://www.imdb.com/title/tt6878306/

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Exceptional Story & Character Development! Wow!!!

Revisado: 08-28-19

David Guterson's "Snow Falling on Cedars" is one of the best written and narrated books that I've listened to in ages. Wow! Wow! Wow!

Guterson's tale unfolds using the words and viewpoints of a myriad of well-developed characters. Each adds to the story sometimes building on what we know--sometimes contradicting them, but always being true to that character's understanding and point of view. Before the book's end, I felt that I knew San Piedro Island (fictional) and it's inhabitants. No spoilers, here--simply know that the story unfolds beautifully and leads to a satisfying conclusion.

Thank you David Guterson. You are now one of my favorite authors and I'm delighted that you've written several other books--one of which, I've already purchased. Next up, "East of the Mountains"!

Thank you George Guidall--my favorite male narrator. I'm looking forward to your next installment of the Walt Longmire novels!

Thank you Audible.com--you are my literary digital heroes!

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GREAT info on adopting a shelter dog! FREE LISTEN

Revisado: 01-28-19

This was my intro to Cesar Millan's work. My family and I recently adopted a Cairn Terrier mix (think "Toto" from "The Wizard of Oz") from our local shelter. "Bringing Home a Shelter Dog" helped tremendously and I purchased Cesar Millan's "Short Guide to a Happy Dog," as well. Both are exceptional!
Had I discover this book prior to adopting, it would have been helpful in preparing our home for our new family member. Alas, like new parents, we've learned and grown and "Rembrandt" aka "Remy" is already a much loved member of our family.
At 1 hour and 9 minutes, this is a quick listen and packed with great info. For me three takeaways are:
1) The importance of crate training which also creates a safe space and retreat--especially for a shelter dog.
2) That dogs live in the moment--"The Great Now!" That insight opens the door for allowing whatever pain or difficulties he may have experienced earlier in life, to be past, with less emotional trauma than we tend to hold onto as humans.
3) That, as dog owners, we have the responsibility of serving as "Pack Leaders."
I also appreciated Cesar Millan's backstory, which he shared. Having come to the U.S. as an illegal immigrant, years ago, Cesar Millan has become an upstanding citizen and made great contributions to our society, to our families, and to our beloved canine family members.
Now, Remy is happy and is bringing joy, love, and affection into our family. And, I have a great appreciation for bumper stickers which read, "My Shelter Dog Rescued Me" This is a great listen. Embrace it. Prepare. And visit your local Animal Shelter. Your hero awaits.
Daniel Williams

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This is a powerful and courageous story!

Revisado: 01-25-19

Katie McKenna's "How to Get Run Over by a Truck" is a beautifully written memoir in which she tells of her tragic accident, her survival, and her journey to a life of gratitude for her new normal. Beautifully written and narrated, this is a story for anyone who has forgotten what a gift each and every sunrise is, Thank you Katie for sharing your story with us. You will touch many lives and likely save a few, as well.

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Amazing book! Applies to screenwriting as well!

Revisado: 01-13-17

K.M. Weiland's book "Structuring Your Novel" surprised me. I've read many exceptional writing books--"Structuring Your Novel" is now in my top ten favorites!

I'm so impressed that I've just purchased K M Weiland's "Outlining Your Novel" and subscribed to her blog, as well.

While I was writing, I gained insight resolving a dilemma regarding a key scene in a screenplay that I'm writing. As such, I set aside the recording to write--and the result brought me to tears.

Sonja Field's soothing narration matches the tone of the book--polished, professional, and masterful! What an exceptional team!

Well done Ms. Weiland and Ms. Field! Thank you! I'm inspired! TWO THUMBS WAY UP!

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LISTENED TWICE! AMAZING TALE! ADDICTIVE SERIES!

Revisado: 05-17-16

This is another great book in the Walt Longmire Mystery Series, and at 3 hours, 44 minutes, "The Highwayman," offers a novella-length introduction to the series, without spoilers. ("The Cold Dish" is book 1 in the series).
I particularly enjoy and appreciate the books in the series which touch Native American spirituality and traditions. I am not an authority on Native American spirituality, nor am I of Native American heritage, however, Craig Johnson seems to address Native American beliefs, spirituality, and customs in a respectfully.
George Guidall's narration is masterful! His slow and patient manner reminds me of a loving grandfather sharing tales of his own adventures and misadventures with his children and grandchildren. However, this is a series for adults and older teens--not children. Some of the books in the series contain strong language, but I didn't notice any here.
Review by Daniel Williams--Actor, Writer, Teacher, and Filmmaker

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"REVENGE IS A DISH BEST SERVED COLD...."

Revisado: 05-12-16

WELCOME TO THE WALT LONGMIRE MYSTERY SERIES AND ABSAROKA COUNTY, WYOMING! Author Craig Johnson introduces Sheriff Walt Longmire, a man of honesty, integrity, and human frailty. Many readers, myself included, find in Walt Longmire a gentle hero whose commitment to justice and determination to protect others is offset by his own personal challenges. Walt's keen insight is revealed through his quick wit and and camouflaged by his patient manner.
If you're looking for a new series that will draw you into to a captivating world with engaging and satisfying stories which will whet your thirst for more, I'm honored to recommend THE COLD DISH, Book 1, in the Walt Longmire Mystery Series.
I'm now listening to the series for the second time, and am finding it even more engaging this time around.
The masterful narration by George Guidall is a perfect match for the first person storytelling by Walt's character.
Welcome to the world of Sheriff Walt Longmire, his best friend Henry Standing Bear, his daughter Cady Longmire, and his Under-Sheriff Victoria Moretti. And, if you're new to this series, I envy you the journey that awaits.

Daniel Williams, Actor, Writer, and Filmmaker

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Gives us permission to "Write OUR OWN truth!"

Revisado: 07-23-15

I'm new to Anne Lamott's writing and, yes, I'm a fan! I recently purchased "Bird by Bird" and now "Word by Word." I'm impressed with Anne Lamott's simple, yet masterful, writing and the way she paints her world with words.

This is a recorded talk that Lamott gave at a writing workshop after publishing "Bird by Bird." For me it's worthwhile because, while, yes, it covers much of the same material that she covers in "Bird by Bird" it distills her writing advice while introducing us to her life and family. She also answers pertinent questions asked by attendees on writing topics such as how to write about family members without causing undue pain, when to quit reworking a bit of writing, and how discover details needed to make a setting come to life.

If I were to give Lamott a Native American-type name based on "Word by Word," if would be "Speaks Her Truth"--something that Lamott gives each of us permission to do, as well. I recommend "Word by Word" for those who are writers, those who aspire to write, and those who are tired of remaining silent and choose to live an authentic and "truth based" life--a truth based on one's own beliefs, memories, experiences, and intuition.

Try "Word by Word" if you like, then "Bird by Bird" for more depth--or vice versa. As for me, I'm glad to have both in my library.

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Made me want to hear "The Tournament"!

Revisado: 07-23-15

I'm new to Matthew Reilly's books, and found this to be a juicier morsel than anticipated--much like an hors-d'oeuvre that looks to be of interest, and proves to be delicious.

As an avid fan of historical fiction, I'm fascinated by Reilly's depiction of King Henry VIII--as a brash and irreverent monarch AND doting father, and of his daughter, a young "Princess" Elizabeth--yes, fellow history buffs--THAT Princess Elizabeth. And having had the good fortune to have visited the Tower of London (reportedly haunted by the ghost of Ann Boleyn) and other sites of England's rich history, I'm even more intrigued at what Mr Reilly has in store for us in future books.

Admittedly, there are a few more "He said's" and "She said's" than necessary, and the mystery seemed a bit shy of what Sherlock Holmes fans might expect, however, this story has, for me, done exactly what the author intended--it's whetted my appetite and made me want to hear more, and for that I congratulate you Mr. Reilly. I look forward to hearing "The Tournament"!

And to Mr Humphrey Bower--my compliments, Sir, on a flawless narration! You made "The King's Lost Girl" come to life!

And a request for you, Mr. Reilly, tell us more about Isabella, and REALLY introduce us to the king's lost girl....you've shown us her beauty from a distance, but WHO is she?

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