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Compelling Relationships Last Forever

Revisado: 04-09-25 El oyente recibió este título gratis

‘Breaking Phoenix,’ by K.A. Finn, delivers an exhilarating start to the Blackjack series. The Blackjacks are mixed-blood vampire fighters determined to survive. The pure-blooded, True Order vampires face an awful future if they don’t find a way out of their destiny to oblivion. Thea convinced her vampire brother, Court, must remain off the grid to survive and believes he is her only family. They live in a nearly condemned property, and she helps to supplement their income with a minor job.

K.A. Finn develops a believable world that leverages contemporary technology with century-plus-aged beings who have seamlessly thrived. Vivid descriptions of capabilities depict enormous physical strength, deep passions for relationships, sounds of moving wings, and sensational fight scenes to bring fans alongside the heroes and villains.

The character’s strengths and weaknesses become emphasized through an individual’s unique capabilities, such as Phoenix’s stay-tough leadership abilities of the Blackjacks, which help her overcome her desire for a relationship. Court, missing for several years from the Blackjacks, has unexplained missing memories that keep him confused. The seven Blackjacks each have secrets, passions, abilities, and an unshakable commitment to one another, especially their non-vampire family members. Villains of the True Order are determined to survive regardless of the cost to others.

Julian Franklin’s fabulous voice acting brings this world and every character to life. The flawless delivery is accentuated by dramatic pauses, well-timed intonations, and pitch changes that emphasize the horror of the action scenes and the deep passion of the romantic interludes. Listeners are drawn into this world from the first words, hoping to hear one more chapter.

Fans of paranormal fantasy with vampire romance will enjoy meeting each of the Blackjacks and discovering their favorite character to follow. Will the gaps in Court’s memory create more questions? Can Phoenix find the best path for the Blackjacks and herself? Will Thea embrace secrets kept from her? Experience non-stop action and adventure in Book 1 of the Blackjacks series, ‘Breaking Phoenix,’ and stay tuned for the follow-on stories fans won’t want to miss

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Trust but verify

Revisado: 04-09-25 El oyente recibió este título gratis

‘Caveat Games’ by Michael Wegman is an exhilarating suspense thriller that immediately captivates listeners. The story follows U.S. Navy Lieutenant Jill Sinclair and her husband, Ross Sinclair, a successful professional broker. While his wife is on assignment aboard the USS Admiral De Grasse, Ross lands a new lucrative client in Virginia. During her deployment, Jill becomes compelled to locate a sunken jet linked to a global sports betting empire. What starts as an underwater mission quickly escalates into a gripping narrative filled with high-stakes government corruption, thrilling conspiracy, and a looming terrorist plot. Mr. Wegman's extensive military background lends authenticity to the story, particularly evident in the vivid portrayals of naval operations and underwater exploration.

The character development is strong, although a few more introspective moments could have enhanced the motivations of some antagonists. Jill is the leading kick-butt and resilient protagonist. Lieutenant Sinclair emerges as a compelling and resilient protagonist. She navigates through a web of deception and danger. Ross is devoted and supportive of Jill as he builds their future nest egg. He and a few close friends keep busy as musicians in their off hours. The insidious villain David Choi adds depth to the tension as he intersects Jill and Ross's lives with a hidden agenda. Each of the players in this thriller is essential and relatable.

The book is well-researched, intertwining themes of loyalty, greed, and power without overwhelming the reader with excessive detail. While it begins at a relatively even pace, it swiftly builds to an engaging climax. The narration by Brandon Vissar is smooth, with poignant intonations and subtle voice shifts between characters that are perfectly maintained from beginning to end.

Overall, 'Caveat Games' is a fantastic debut novel that combines military precision with a thrilling plot, making it a must-listen or must-read for fans of high-octane action and intrigue. It is an entertaining action and adventure ride. Fans will cross their fingers for more stories about Jill Sinclair's journey with her loyal husband Ross! Well done, Michael Wegman.

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Small Town Mystery

Revisado: 04-03-25

'Who Shot Ms. Marple?' by Dana Hayward takes listeners on a journey through rural America, bringing intrigue and humor into a delightful novella. Deputy Todd McVean navigates Ms. Marple's quirky complaints, highlighting the eccentricities of her neighbors, which the sheriff cannot personally handle. The vivid descriptions of the small-town setting make Ms. Marple's escapes realistic while engaging all five senses.

The multidimensional characters are woven into an intricate plot, utilizing sharp dialogue to showcase the delightful interactions among the players. Ms. Marple is a deliciously spirited character with a passion for her community and exacting judgment on respect for others. Following the clues to discover the culprit of the shooting reveals the good, bad, and misguided beliefs of residents who keep secrets.

L.H. Conbran uses his rich baritone perfectly to relate the tale from Deputy Todd McVean's perspective. The flawless delivery has succinct pacing, superb tonality, and perfectly placed intonations that add depth to the layers of local dynamics. It is nearly impossible to pause this entertaining narration even when life intrudes.

Dana Hayward is commended for creating a small-town noir escape for fans of mysteries. The personalities of the endearing characters reveal a place one will want to visit again with Deputy Todd McVean. Don't miss this charming, thought-provoking novella, 'Who Shot Ms. Marple?' to discover its underlying themes of local law enforcement, good ‘ol boys, and environmental issues. Bravo.

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A Twist on the Cold War

Revisado: 03-22-25 El oyente recibió este título gratis

Ben Hawken's storytelling of 'Chandelier' is captivating. He skillfully intertwines a dramatic narrative that explores secret domestic activities during the Cold War with a compelling cast of characters, notably Sienna Barrett, whose unique experiences relate to readers. The narrative spans from the 1990s to today, revealing hidden truths while preserving a breathtaking scope.

The depth of character development and the dynamic family interactions add a layer of humor and authenticity, making the suburban family's dialogue relatable and enjoyable. The pacing is exceptional, reminiscent of a Dan Brown thriller, keeping listeners engaged. Ben Hawken's use of the beauty of the Northwest landscape enhances the tension and conflict, seamlessly transitioning from intimate family moments to global chaos.

High praise for the audiobook experience created by Ben Hawken's narration, making 'Chandelier' an immersive journey that keeps listeners guessing how various plotlines will converge. The payoff at the end, especially with the classified government report, serves as a brilliant recap, tying everything together neatly.

Overall, 'Chandelier' is a creative masterpiece, solidifying Ben Hawken's talent for merging fiction with thought-provoking themes that linger long after the story ends. This book is among the year's top novels as a clever masterpiece that takes listeners on a fascinating journey, revealing a different way of seeing the world. The perfect ending topped off this adventure.

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Futuristic Journey

Revisado: 03-22-25 El oyente recibió este título gratis

AWE: A Technothriller' is a thought-provoking novel that delves into the urgent issues of climate change and the ethical dilemmas we face today with a futurist viewpoint. Pierre R. Schwob follows Pic de Lucrète and his team of scientists as they race against time to combat disinformation and avert a global catastrophe. The intricate plot weaves together suspense and innovative scientific concepts, making the urgency of the climate crisis feel both immediate and relatable.

The character development is detailed, bringing out the feelings and drivers of each player. Lily Lee is a brilliant mathematician of Chinese heritage, and Pic takes her under his wing when he hires her. An exceptional villain, characterized as a Russian oil billionaire, applies fatal methods to preserve his business empire. The diverse cast keeps listeners engaged until the final page.

Pierre R. Schwob illustrates how scientists might leverage AI to fight virulent disinformation and prevent an impending disaster. The world may never take action unless Pic's team can usurp the spread of lies and fake news. If people of the world unite, they might avoid civilization suffering immeasurable loss. The thrilling plot takes listeners from Silicon Valley to Tokyo, St. Petersburg, Moscow, and Beijing with vivid futuristic details.

Jordan Kilgore's narration is well-paced, with voice intonations that differ between characters. Though initially mildly confusing, listening to this story is the recommended modality. The scientific lingo sometimes goes a bit too far for the average listener. Overall, it is a fabulous audio experience. Areas focused on fake news and social relevance came across as pompous for contemporary viewpoints.

'AWE: A Technothriller,' created by a visionary author and computer scientist, Pierre R Schwob, combines suspense, science fiction, technology, and contemporary issues into a thought-provoking narrative. Fans may reflect on shared moral and ethical choices that could shape the future of our world. This novel entertains and inspires critical reflection on our collective responsibilities to the planet. Recommended read for anyone who appreciates a blend of thrilling action and pressing real-world issues!

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Twisted Reasoning

Revisado: 02-06-25 El oyente recibió este título gratis

Mark Dickerman delivers an exciting beginning to the Callum Earley Series with Book 1, 'Revenge Waits No Longer.' It begins in the picturesque townland of Glenties in County Donegal, Ireland. Each scene and location are vividly painted in the mind with descriptive prose, though some areas would benefit by showing rather than telling. Callum Early retired Garda Inspector from an illustrious career in law enforcement, much of which was during The Troubles. Ireland suffered widespread violence, with groups like the IRA, from the late 1960s until the Good Friday Agreement of 1998.

Fans will appreciate the fabulous character distinction of each player in this suspenseful mystery. Alone since his wife Sarah had died, Callum returns to his family home after his father passes and decides to renovate it. His mother, Mary, and his half-siblings, Robert and Renée, are his only family, so he decides it’s time for a visit. His arrival follows a brutal murder in Danville, where Robert is a corporal in the Police Department. With Callum's experience, Rob invites him to help consult. Can Callum assemble the clues, of what escalates rapidly into serial killings in time to save lives?

RL Conbran's voice narration renders a perfect balance of character voices, pacing, and tonality that matches the escalation of the mystery. The details of the violence and detective work during the escalating suspense keep listeners engaged. The tension mounts as each clue gets examined. The growing suspect list keeps authorities busy with interviews. There were no slips or misses in the quality of the listening experience.

Fans of crime mysteries and suspense will enjoy meeting Callum and learning how he approaches crime-solving firsthand. Will he discover how to embrace his family and cherish Ireland? ‘Revenge Waits No Longer’ ramps the suspense until the unexpected ending. The mystery is a good start to a series that listeners and readers will enjoy. Add this one to your library today before Book 2 is released.

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Coming-of-Age

Revisado: 02-06-25

'Dreamers of the Sea' is a captivating science fiction fantasy by Louis Williams. Cloyd Smith is a young boy torn between the desires of his imagination and the expectations of his father, Woodrow. In 1890, during the Age of Steam, Cloyd strikes out on his own to escape the pressures of his father's world and embrace the allure of the sea.

Mr. Louis does a good job developing the various characters. Particularly notable are Cloyd, portraying a relatable coming-of-age dreamer yearning for adventure, and his father, Woodrow, who embodies the weight of parental expectations with little patience for his son's whims. Their interactions create an emotional depth that pulls at the listener's heartstrings. Morse, the seasoned steamship captain, adds another layer by embracing Cloyd's strengths in ways his father doesn't understand.

Austin Rhoads' narration and pacing draw listeners into the tale. The story begins gently, allowing time for the listener to connect with the characters before shifting into a gripping adventure filled with smugglers and pirates. The descriptive storytelling brings to life the vibrant locations Cloyd encounters, making every place feel vivid and exciting. There were no issues with the quality of the audio performance.

While some may find the ending resolves too rapidly, it doesn't detract from the overall experience. The themes of relationships, self-discovery, and the longing for adventure resonate deeply. The story highlights things that matter in everyone's life. Fans of fantasy with a rich imagination can discover an engaging story that offers a mix of adventure and emotion, with a touch of nostalgia will enjoy 'Dreamers of the Sea.' Louis William's memorable debut will stay with you long after the final chapter. Happy listening.

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Impossible Choices

Revisado: 02-06-25

In 'Shared Madness,' listeners are immersed in the gripping tale of Zack Tripler, a Boston psychiatrist, who admits a new patient to the hospital. The patient, Youssef al Saud, was brought in from the woods, where he had been hiding for several days with his laptop. Terrified, the man clutches the laptop tightly to his chest and is hallucinating, delusional, and convinced his life is in danger. Thus begins this psychological thriller.

Zack's mental state begins to unravel as he navigates the complexities of his patient’s psychotic episode. Zack’s character is superbly developed, as are the surrounding patients he treats. To treat his patients, Zach gradually finds himself facing his hallucinations and delusions, creating a riveting narrative filled with unexpected twists and turns. The realistic dialogue and interactions between characters are perfectly balanced.

The talented voice of Joe Smith enhances the experience remarkably. Smith’s impressive ability to bring each character to life through distinct voices and accents makes the story even more immersive. His nuanced performance captures the emotional depth of the characters and maintains a captivating pace that keeps listeners on the edge of their seats. With phenomenal sound quality and engaging narration, 'Shared Madness' transforms into an unforgettable auditory adventure that beautifully complements its thrilling storyline.

The story masterfully intertwines paranoia, suspense, and psychological intrigue, drawing listeners into a world where nothing is quite what it seems. Overall, both the story and the narration combine to create a compelling psychological thriller you won't want to miss.

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Fierce Friends Forever

Revisado: 01-18-25 El oyente recibió este título gratis

K.T. Blakemore’s ‘The Good Time Girls’ is a refreshing historical Western novel that combines action, humor, and rich character development, centered around two dynamic female protagonists, Ruby Calhoun and Pip Quinn. The story chronicles the girls' escapades as they navigate life on the run from the vengeful Cullen Wilder in the early 1900s. The narrative unfolds in a dual timeline format, with the present events set in 1905 and flashbacks to 1898. These vignettes provide crucial context to the characters’ current backgrounds and former lives as showgirls, though at times slowed the pace, and added choppiness.

The earlier timeline explores how Ruby and Pip became friends and the impact of the doomed love affair involving Pip and Cullen Wilder. The writing showcases a clever use of witty dialogue and humor, making the primary and secondary characters lively and engaging. Though Ruby and Pip are fleeing Wilder, they are trying to reclaim some semblance of the good times they shared. The author effectively captures the language and atmosphere of the late 19th and early 20th centuries, immersing readers in the setting with rich descriptions and period-appropriate dialogue. The plot progresses smoothly, combining action-packed moments with heartfelt storytelling, revealing the trials and tribulations Ruby and Pip endure as they try to outsmart Cullen Wilder.

Gail Shalan's talented performance adds depth to the characters with distinctive voices that bring them to life. The outstanding delivery has impeccable timing and perfect tonality, delivering a flawless listening experience. The unblemished quality of this audio performance significantly enhanced the story. There were no quality issues with the audio format.
‘The Good Time Girls’ stands out from typical Westerns with a focus on resilient female characters. The novel will appeal to fans of Westerns and listeners ready for solid, entertaining storytelling. It blends camaraderie, vengeance, and survival while delivering an outrageous narrative filled with charm and grit. The dynamic duo of Ruby and Pip brings humor and heart to the Wild West. Book one of Wild-Willed Women of the West is a good start to a promising series.

This fun story is also available in eBook and Paperback.

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Gamesmanship

Revisado: 12-25-24 El oyente recibió este título gratis

'In the Shadows of the Game’ is the twelfth installment in Owen Parr's, Joey Mancuso, Father O’Brian Crime Mystery series. The story immerses Joey Mancuso and his team in a complex, dark criminal plot involving a syndicate targeting young female athletes. The contemporary theme is alarmingly realistic. This book is a captivating mystery, even for those unfamiliar with the series.

The character development in the story is remarkable, as it showcases complex, multi-dimensional characters that evolve throughout the narrative. Each character faces challenges that reveal more profound layers of their personalities, driving the plot's action and drama. Joey Mancuso and his team are distinctive, likable characters who would be fun to meet at dinner parties. The dialogue and interactions are realistically fast-paced. Randy Goldstein, the talented tennis-playing student, is accused of a horrendous murder, which Joey and his team work to resolve. The main characters' growth is highlighted perfectly through the story twists and their reactions to various situations. Overall, the character arcs contribute significantly to the compelling nature of the series.

Randy McCarten masterfully narrates ‘In the Shadows of the Game,’ enhancing the dramatic aspects of the mystery. He effectively brings these characters to life, enhancing the emotional impact of their journeys. The pace and intonations capture the gritty determination and emotional depth of the characters, with distinctive voices, while navigating a unique storyline filled with unexpected twists and gripping tension. This is a solid performance that audiobook fans will appreciate.

Owen Parr’s ‘In the Shadow of the Games’ stands out for its fresh perspective in classic whodunit mystery style. The story invites fans and newcomers to Joey Mancuso to tie together the intertwining themes of greed, ambition, and crime during the heart-pounding journey to the unanticipated ending. Highly recommended for action-packed crime mystery fans and those who want a new series—Don’t miss this gripping novel.

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