CassaStar …. CassaFire

◊ CASSASTAR by Alex J. Cavanaugh

◊ Series: CassaStar Series, Book 1

◊ Narrator: Michael Burnette

◊ Audible Audio Edition

◊ Listening Length: 9 hours and 24 minutes

◊ Program Type: Audiobook

◊ Genre: Science Fiction, Fantasy, Space Opera

◊ Version: Unabridged

◊ Publisher: Dancing Lemur Press LLC

◊ Audible.com Release Date: August 1, 2016

◊ Language: English

◊ ASIN: BO1JBBBXXG

SYNOPSIS:

To pilot the fleet's finest ship...

Few options remain for Byron. A talented but stubborn young man with a troubled past and rebellious attitude, his cockpit skills are his only hope. Slated to train as a Cosbolt fighter pilot, Byron is determined to prove his worth and begin a new life as he sets off for the moon base of Guaard.

Much to Byron's chagrin, the toughest instructor in the fleet takes notice of the young pilot. Haunted by a past tragedy, Bassa eventually sees through Byron's tough exterior and insolence. When a secret talent is revealed during training, Bassa feels compelled to help Byron achieve his full potential.

As war brews on the edge of space, time is running short. Byron requires a navigator of exceptional quality to survive, and Bassa must make a decision that could well decide the fate of both men. Will their skills be enough as they embark on a mission that may stretch their abilities to the limit?

You might think a story without a murder mystery, any romance, or even strong graphic violence would be rather stale, but that’s not the case if it’s written by bestselling author Alex J. Cavanaugh. Add to that the narration by Michael Burnette and you’re in for an awesome listening experience.

CassaStar is an entertaining and intriguing story that takes listeners/readers to new planets, presents new technology, and introduces well-developed mesmerizing characters. If you’re a Star Trek and/or Star Wars fan, you don’t want to miss out on this enthralling tale.

Narrator Michael Burnette does a wonderful job giving each character their own distinct voice. His mannerisms highlight the extraordinary powers of the characters. His vocals, along with the numerous special sound effects, enhances this already tantalizing sci-fi story.

The story moves at a steady pace and holds your attention as you come to understand and relate to the protagonist. A few surprise twists along the way may catch you off guard. The likable characters are well-balanced and their growth throughout the story plausible.

Author Alex J. Cavanaugh has created a fantasy world that becomes believable through his eye for detail and his rich descriptions. The technology mentioned throughout the story isn’t overwhelming with geek speak descriptions. Listeners/readers are placed in the middle of the action as this adrenaline-fueled story unfolds making one dream of having the protagonist’s powers.

CassaStar is the beginning of a captivating world filled with intriguing characters you’ll delight in knowing. This has all the elements sci-fi fans, and non-fans, will enjoy. It’s a wholesome story with heart and suspense.

CassaStar by Alex J. Cavanaugh, CassaStar Series (Book #1), Narrated by Michael Burnette, Dancing Lemur Press LLC, @2016, ASIN: BO1JBBBXXG, Unabridged, Audible Audio Edition, Run Time: 9 Hours and 24 Minutes

FTC Full Disclosure – A copy of this audio book was sent to me by the publisher in hopes I would review it. However, receiving the complimentary copy did not influence my review. The thoughts are completely my own and given honestly and freely.

CASSAFIRE by Alex J. Cavanaugh

◊ CASSAFIRE by Alex J. Cavanaugh

◊ Series: CassaStar Series, Book 2

◊ Narrator: Michael Burnette

◊ Audible Audio Edition

◊ Listening Length: 9 hours and 13 minutes

◊ Program Type: Audiobook

◊ Genre: Science Fiction, Fantasy, Space Opera

◊ Version: Unabridged

◊ Publisher: Dancing Lemur Press LLC

◊ Audible.com Release Date: August 25, 2016

◊ Language: English

◊ ASIN: BO1KZPTTRE

SYNOPSIS:

          
     From the Amazon best-selling author - A Pinnacle Book Achievement Award Winner! 

CassaStar was just the beginning... 

The Vindicarn War is a distant memory and Byron's days of piloting Cosbolt fighters are over. He has kept the promise he made to his fallen mentor and friend - to probe space on an exploration vessel. Shuttle work is dull, but it's a free and solitary existence. The senior officer is content with his life aboard the Rennather.

The detection of alien ruins sends the exploration ship to the distant planet of Tgren. If their scientists can decipher the language, they can unlock the secrets of this device. Is it a key to the Tgren's civilization or a weapon of unimaginable power? Tensions mount as their new allies are suspicious of the Cassan's technology and strange mental abilities.

To complicate matters, the Tgrens are showing signs of mental powers themselves; the strongest of which belongs to a pilot named Athee, a woman whose skills rival Byron's unique abilities. Forced to train her mind and further develop her flying aptitude, he finds his patience strained. Add a reluctant friendship with a young scientist, and he feels invaded on every level. All Byron wanted was his privacy...

Author Alex J. Cavanaugh continues his space opera series with growth and development, more action, a touch of romance, and all around good entertainment.

Narrator Michael Burnette once again does an excellent job giving unique voices to the various characters. His cadence and methods makes the telepathic and radio conversations distinct. His spot on timing, along with the special sound effects, adds depth to this fascinating story.

The protagonist and the other characters are well-developed and likable. The author especially shows growth in his protagonist as the story unfolds. Blending friendship and loyalty, discipline and resistant with a dash of romance, the protagonist evolves to a better understanding while still dealing with issues from his past. The addition of a female lead who is feisty and equal in physic powers enhances the tale.

The action intensifies at times with the threat of alien annihilation building suspense to the mix. Moving at a good pace the story doesn’t lose you in a vast wasteland of technical jargon but makes the elements seem real with talk of mind jumping and telepathy communication. The components of this sci-fi journey become believable through the author’s vivid descriptions.

CASSAFIRE is the second installment in the CassaStar series but can be read/listened to on its own. There is enough background information so new readers/listeners won’t be left in the dark while briefly touching on issues returning fans will remember.

This is a wholesome sci-fi adventure that will hold you captive from beginning to end. You don’t have to be a sci-fi buff to enjoy this tale of a man controlling his emotions finally able to feel more than lost and pain as he strives to serve his duty.

CassaFire by Alex J. Cavanaugh, CassaStar Series (Book #2), Narrated by Michael Burnette, Dancing Lemur Press LLC, @2016, ASIN: BO1KZPTTRE, Unabridged, Audible Audio Edition, Run Time: 9 Hours and 13 Minutes

FTC Full Disclosure – A copy of this audio book was sent to me by the publisher in hopes I would review it. However, receiving the complimentary copy did not influence my review. The thoughts are completely my own and given honestly and freely.

Thanks so much for stopping by today. I hope I’ve enticed you to check one or both of these amazing audios. The stories are also available in print and eBook formats. As strange as it sounds, I don’t read much sci-fi but I love to watch sci-fi movies and listen to sci-fi audios. I guess I just need help with the visuals. What about you, had you rather read, listen and/or watch sci-fi? What is it about sci-fi that grabs you the most?
 

CassaStar audio is available at Audible, Amazon, and iTunes.

CassaFire audio is available at Audible, Amazon, and iTunes.

CassaStorm (third in the series) audio will be available later this month.

Alex J. Cavanaugh has a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree and works in web design, graphics, and technical editing. A fan of all things science fiction, his interests range from books and movies to music and games. Online he is the Ninja Captain and founder of the Insecure Writer’s Support Group. He’s the author of Amazon Best-Sellers CassaStar, CassaFire, CassaStorm, and Dragon of the Stars. The author lives in the Carolinas with his wife. You can connect with Alex at the following sites:

http://alexjcavanaugh.com/

http://www.insecurewriterssupportgroup.com/

http://whatarethekargrandes.com/

http://twitter.com/AlexJCavanaugh