Darkest Journey by Heather Graham

◊ DARKEST JOURNEY by Heather Graham

◊ Series: A Krewe of Hunters, Book #20

◊ Narrator: Luke Daniels

◊ Audible Audio Edition

◊ Listening Length: 10 hours and 9 minutes

◊ Program Type: Audiobook

◊ Genre: Mystery, Thriller, Paranormal

◊ Version: Unabridged

◊ Publisher: Harlequin Audio

◊ Audible.com Release Date: September 27, 2016

◊ Language: English

◊ ASIN: BO1K8EXOD2

SYNOPSIS:

They say it's about the journey, not the destination.

Charlene "Charlie" Moreau is back in St. Francisville, Louisiana, to work on a movie. One night she stumbles across the body of a Civil War reenactor, the second murdered in two days. Charlie is shocked to learn that her father - a guide on the Journey, a historic paddle wheeler that's sponsoring the reenactment - is a suspect.

Meanwhile, Ethan Delaney, new to the FBI's Krewe of Hunters, is brought in on the case. He and Charlie have a history of their own, dating back to when he rescued her from a graveyard - led there by a Confederate ghost!

Charlie arranges a Mississippi River cruise so she and Ethan can get close to the reenactors and find out who knows what and who has a motive. They discover a lot more as they resume the relationship that ended 10 years ago but might die, along with them, on the Journey.

When you combine Civil War reenactors, historical cemeteries, ghosts, and author Heather Graham, you know you’re in for a captivating tale.

Narrator Luke Daniels does a superb job giving each character their own unique voice. His expressions of emotions heighten the story. His timing is spot on.

The story is filled with suspense, action, and an abundance of history. Moving at a steady pace, the story has a number of surprises in store for you before it comes to its heart-stopping end.

The characters are likable and well-developed. The author makes the ghost characters intriguing and engaging. While several characters from prior stories were involved, new readers/listeners to the series won’t be left in the dark.

The author blends the present with history and adds a touch of the paranormal to create a mesmerizing story. The budding romance of old friends adds depth to the story. A tantalizing tale of ghosts, murder, and mystery that will hold your attention from beginning to end. A perfect story for history lovers and mystery buffs alike.

DARKEST JOURNEY may just entice you to explore the area along the Mississippi River and Louisiana (without the ghosts, of course).

Darkest Journey by Heather Graham, Krewe of Hunters series (Book #20), Narrated by Luke Daniels, Harlequin Audio, @2016, ASIN: BO1K8EXOD2, Unabridged, Audible Audio Edition, Run Time: 10 Hours and 9 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 for dropping by today. Are you a Civil War buff? Have you ever attended a Civil War reenactment?

Deadly Fate by Heather Graham

◊ DEADLY FATE by Heather Graham

◊ Series: Krewe of Hunters, Book #19

◊ Narrator: Luke Daniels

◊ Audible Audio Edition

◊ Listening Length: 10 hours and 5 minutes

◊ Program Type: Audiobook

◊ Genre: Mystery, Thriller, Suspense

◊ Version: Unabridged

◊ Publisher: Harlequin Audio

◊ Release Date: July 19, 2016

◊ Language: English

◊ ASIN: BO1F5OBL3O

SYNOPSIS:

Alaska - the final frontier?

When Clara Avery, an entertainer working on the Fate, an Alaskan cruise ship, goes to nearby Bear Island, she comes across a scene of bloody mayhem. She also comes across Thor Erikson, who will soon be a member of the FBI's elite paranormal unit, the Krewe of Hunters.

Thor's been sent from the Alaska field office to investigate several grotesque killings, with the dead posed to resemble the victims of notorious murderers. The prime suspect is a serial killer Thor once put behind bars. The man escaped from a prison in the Midwest, and all the evidence says he was headed to Alaska.

Thor and Clara share an unusual skill: the ability to communicate with the dead. Their growing love - and their contact with the ghosts of the victims - brings them together to solve the case...and prevent a deadly fate of their own!

Author Heather Graham has a unique way of taking secondary characters from one story and making them lead characters in another story in a smooth transition.

DEADLY FATE, the 19^th installment in Graham’s Krewe of Hunters series, is a prime example. The heroine, Clara Avery, was a secondary character in Graham’s previous installment, HAUNTED DESTINY.

Luke Daniels once again does a superb job giving voice to the Krewe of Hunters characters. His tempo and accents enhance this tantalizing mystery. His timing is spot on adding to the story’s suspense.

Graham transports listeners/readers to Alaska and all it has to offer through her vivid descriptions. The frozen setting becomes a character in itself as it contributes to the uncertainty of the situation. Listeners/readers are drawn into the setting through its beauty, but are quickly reminded of its dangers.

The story flows smoothly and makes several jests at realty television and viewers’ love/hate of the genre. With twists and turns, as well as a second surprise ending, the story holds you captive from beginning to end.

While it’s always better to read/listen to a series in order, DEADLY FATE is a stand-alone tale. There is enough background reference to the previous story that new listeners/readers aren’t left in the dark. At the same time, returning fans have a chance to reunite with characters they are already familiar with.

Graham blends mystery, suspense, paranormal, touches of humor, and a dash of romance to create a well-balanced, intriguing story. This is an entertaining tale you won’t be able to put down until the end.

Deadly Fate by Heather Graham, Krewe of Hunters series (Book #19), Narrated by Luke Daniels, Harlequin Audio, @2016, ASIN: BO1F5OBL3O, Unabridged, Digital Download, Run Time: 10 Hours and 5 Minutes (* This book is also available in eBook and print formats.)

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 for dropping by today. Hope your Saturday is going well and you find time to enjoy reading this weekend. Do you think of Alaska as a vast wilderness? Have you ever or would you like to visit Alaska?

Haunted Destiny … The Obsession

◊ HAUNTED DESTINY by Heather Graham

◊ Series: Krewe of Hunters (Book #18)

◊ Narrator: Luke Daniels

◊ Listening Length: 9 hours and 56 minutes

◊ Program Type: MP3 CD

◊ Genre: Mystery, Thriller, Suspense, Paranormal

◊ Version: Unabridged

◊ Publisher: Brilliance Audio

◊ Release Date: May 24, 2016

◊ Language: English

◊ ISBN: 978-1491505700

SYNOPSIS:

Between the evil and the deep blue sea.…

A historic cruise ship, a haunted ship, the Celtic American Line's Destiny, sets sail from the Port of New Orleans―with a killer on board. He's known as the Archangel Killer because of the way he displays his victims in churches. And how he places a different saint's medallion on each body. No one knows exactly who he is or why he's doing this.

Jackson Crow―head of the FBI's Krewe of Hunters, a special unit of paranormal investigators―is assigned to the case, along with local agent Jude McCoy. Then Alexi Cromwell, who works in the ship's piano bar, is drawn into the situation when a victim's ghost appears to her―and to Jude. She and Jude share an attraction, and not just because of their mutual talent.

There are many suspects, but one by one they're ruled out.… Or are they? In the end, Jude and Alexi have to rely on each other to catch the killer and escape his evil plans for Alexi.

MY THOUGHTS:

When it comes to things that go bump in the night, author Heather Graham has a knack for making them come alive. Graham takes elements of the paranormal and weaves them into the story in such a way they appear plausible.

Narrator Luke Daniels once again demonstrates his rich talent for providing multiple voices. His mannerisms enhances this tantalizing tale. His timing and tone are spot on.

The historic cruise ship setting is perfect for the mix of ghosts and a serial killer. With an eye for detail, Graham draws listeners/readers into the setting so clearly you can practically feel the ocean breeze on your face.

Graham’s characters are well-developed and very likable. Their interaction with the paranormal seems real. The story moves at a quick pace with a number of twists and turns to keep you guessing.

HAUNTED DESTINY is an alluring tale of murder and mystery with a good dose of romance and ghosts woven in for just the right measure of a well-balanced story. While this story is a part of the Krewe of Hunters series, it can be listened to/read on its own.

Haunted Destiny by Heather Graham, Krewe of Hunters series (Book #18), Narrated by Luke Daniels, Brilliance Audio, @2016, ISBN: 978-1491505700, Unabridged, MP3 CD, Run Time: 9 Hours and 56 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.

THE OBSESSION by Nora Roberts

◊ THE OBSESSION by Nora Roberts

◊ Narrator: Shannon McManus

◊ Listening Length: 14 hours and 19 minutes

◊ Program Type: MP3 CD

◊ Genre: Romantic Suspense

◊ Version: Unabridged

◊ Publisher: Brilliance Audio

◊ Release Date: April 12, 2016

◊ Language: English

◊ ISBN: 978-1501223822

SYNOPSIS:

The riveting new novel from the #1 New York Times bestselling author of The Liar.

Naomi Bowes lost her innocence the night she followed her father into the woods. In freeing the girl trapped in the root cellar, Naomi revealed the horrible extent of her father’s crimes and made him infamous.

Now a successful photographer living under the name Naomi Carson, she has found a place that calls to her, thousands of miles away from everything she’s ever known. Naomi wants to embrace the solitude, but the residents of Sunrise Cove keep forcing her to open up―especially the determined Xander Keaton.

Naomi can feel her defenses failing, and knows that the connection her new life offers is something she’s always secretly craved. But as she’s learned time and again, her past is never more than a nightmare away.

MY THOUGHTS:

Author Nora Roberts explores some of our worst nightmares I her latest thriller. What if a family member was a serial killer and what if you were the one that lead to their arrest?

Narrator Shannon McManus does an excellent job giving distinct voices to all the characters. Her vocals and timing brings out the emotions of the characters and adds to the story.

Roberts’ characters are well-rounded, likable and realistic. Her protagonist is strong and determined, but has a crack in her shell from the trauma she’s experienced. The author shares the beautiful landscape with the listeners/readers through her detailed descriptions.

The story moves at a good pace as the suspense unfolds. Even if you guess who the new killer is, the path to their reveal is worth the effort. The romance sizzles as the tension mounts. THE OBSESSION offers mystery, suspense, good chemistry, humor and forever friendships.

The Obsession by Nora Roberts, Narrated by Shannon McManus, Brilliance Audio, @2016, ISBN: 978-1501223822, Unabridged, MP3 CD, Run Time: 14 Hours and 19 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 for stopping by today. Hope you’ll check out both of these fascinating stories. If you’re not an audio fan, both books are available in print format and eBook. Do you like to mix up your reading pleasure by reading from different genres or do you prefer just one genre?

Flawless by Heather Graham, Read by Saskia Maarleveld

Strange twists can sometimes lead to unknown pleasures and dangers as in the case of FLAWLESS by Heather Graham.

Narrator Saskia Maarleveld does a superb job making each character unique sounding. She captured the tone, attitude, and accents of the various characters with great ease. Her interruption enhances this romantic thriller.

Kieran Finnegan only wants to return an expensive diamond to the jeweler without being caught to keep her clueless brother and their best friend from getting into trouble. Seems Julie thought it was a good idea to borrow the diamond to get her soon-to-be ex-husband in trouble with his boss at the jewelry store. Wanting to help her, Danny saw no problem in taking the diamond for her since he was only ‘borrowing’ it and not planning on keeping it.

Just as Kieran is about to make the return, the jewelry store is robbed by three masked gunmen. Taken hostage, Kieran is soon able to escape with the help of FBI Agent Craig Frasier who was pursuing the robbers. The robbers, using fake guns, are captured, the jewels (including the one Kieran had) are returned, and all is well Kieran thinks.

Not so as Craig believes Kieran is hiding something and begins to dig deeper. Could it be she was in on the robbery or is her family’s bar somehow involved? Oh, and there’s another set of jewelry store robbers identical to these only the group still on the loose is killing people when they rob.

Through a series of twists and turns the author places Kieran and Craig together creating sparks, as well as doubts. The attraction between the two intensifies as the plot thickens. The characters are well-written and likable. The New York City setting, with an Irish pub backdrop, adds depth and dimension to the story.

The blossoming romance between Kieran and Craig doesn’t overshadow the suspense and intrigue involving the robbers and murders. While this story doesn’t contain the paranormal aspect the author is famous for, it features fascinating characters, a historical setting, and enough suspense and murder to keep you guessing until the very end.

Impeccably written and faultlessly narrated, FLAWLESS is an entertaining thriller that will provide hours of suspenseful delight. It’s also available in print and eBook format for those wishes to read this captivating story.

Flawless by Heather Graham, Narrated by Saskia Maarleveld, Brilliance Audio, @2016, ISBN: 978-1491505274, Unabridged, MP3 CD, Run Time: 8 Hours and 40 Minutes

FTC Full Disclosure – An audio copy of this 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 for stopping by today. FLAWLESS is one of those stories that shows an author can write in numerous genres with great ease. I hope you’ll check it out. What would you do if someone you knew ‘borrowed’ a diamond from a jeweler just to get someone else in trouble?

The Hidden by Heather Graham

*This post contains affiliate links  

Blending history with paranormal elements and making them plausible is what author Heather Graham does with her Krewe of Hunters series.

In her latest release, THE HIDDEN, the author combines history with ghosts, a touch of romance, greed, suspension, and murder for a fascinating story. Set in Colorado, the story deals with modern killers as well as events shortly after the Civil War.

Narrator Phil Gigante does an excellent job giving each character their own unique voice. Using mannerisms and just the right cadence, the emotions of the characters are related with precision enhancing the story.

With her historical knowledge and archaeology background, Scarlet Barlow goes to work telling the history of Conway Ranch. When it seems history is repeating itself in the form of murders, Scarlet calls on her ex-husband, FBI Agent Diego McCullough.

Having just been asked to join the Krewe of Hunters, an elite FBI group, Diego asks for their assistance in solving the murders surrounding the Conway Ranch. The Krewe is determined to find the killers of the modern-day murders and are happy to have the help of a few ghosts along the way.

The author creates an intriguing tale that blends romance, second chances and mystery. The roller-coaster ride of adventure in this fast-pace story will hold readers/listeners spellbound. With vivid descriptions, the author paints a beautiful setting in the Colorado mountainside. The characters are well developed and likable.

THE HIDDEN can be read/listened to on its own. However, there are several characters from previous Krewe of Hunters installments involved in the story that may cause you to want to check out THE FORGOTTEN and THE SILENCED.

This is a tantalizing tale that will quickly draw you in. Author Heather Graham makes history and paranormal seem like that are meant to be together.

Heather Graham's website is www.theoriginalheathergraham.com

The Hidden by Heather Graham, Krewe of Hunters (Book #17), Narrated by Phil Gigante, Brilliance Audio, @2015, ISBN: 978-1491505595, Unabridged, 7 Discs, Run Time: 8 Hours and 50 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. Hope I’ve enticed you to check out THE HIDDEN and the Krewe of Hunters. You can listen to a clip of the audio book HERE.

The Forgotten…The Yellow Rose Beauty Shop

I have two amazing audios to tell you about today that are listed as coming from completely different genres. But both are by authors who’s work I so enjoy and love their series.

THE FORGOTTEN by Heather Graham

Stories about zombies bring to mind certain images I tend to shy away from, but author Heather Graham tackles the subject matter in an intriguing way that quickly pulled me in.

Narrator Phil Gigante does an excellent job giving the ‘living’ and ‘dead’ characters their own unique voice. His mannerisms are such that even the female voices capture your attention. Gigante’s interruption of the emotions and suspense enhances an already well-developed story.

FBI Agent Britt Cody finds he has a most unusual crime on his hands. A woman has been murdered in her own home by her husband. But the husband had been murdered weeks earlier in an explosion tied to a local crime boss.

Meanwhile, Lara Mayhew is settling into a new job working with a dolphin research facility. When one of the dolphins brings Lara a human finger from the lagoon, Britt is called in. The finger, along with a number of other body parts, turns out to be the dead man accused of killing his wife.

As more zombie-like killings occur, the Krewe of Hunters (an elite FBI unit of paranormal investigators) is called in. As Britt and Lara work with members of the Krewe, they soon discover everything is not what it seems including their attitude toward each other.

Graham has crafted interesting characters that draw listeners/readers in and holds them spellbound until they discover answers. She blends the paranormal with realistic for a smooth, fast-pace story filled with mystery, suspense, and touches of romance. Combining all these elements with fascinating tidbits about dolphins, Graham captures your imagination.

THE FORGOTTEN is the 16th installment in Graham’s Krewe of Hunters series, but can be listened to or read on its own. While several characters from the previous installment (THE SILENCED) return in this story, new listeners/readers won’t be left in the dark and returning fans of the series will enjoy the follow-up to a former character’s journey.

Graham brings dark and deadly zombies to life in her latest paranormal thriller.

The Forgotten by Heather Graham, Krewe of Hunters Book #16, Narrated by Phil Gigante, Brilliance Audio, @2015, ISBN: 978-1491505151, Unabridged, 7 Discs, Run Time: 8 Hours and 46 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.

THE YELLOW ROSE BEAUTY SHOP by Carolyn Brown

Living in a town where the gossip travels faster than the speed of sound might be tough, but if you had friends like Stella, Charlotte and Piper it wouldn’t matter.

These three ladies and a slew of other characters bring the town of Cadillac, Texas, to life in another Carolyn Brown’s THE YELLOW ROSE BEAUTY SHOP, the latest installment in her Cadillac, Texas series.

Narrator Laural Merlington will have you laughing and then on the verge of tears as she brings these delightful characters to life. She hits the mark every time with her mannerisms and varying accents. Her way with Southern flare emphasizes the sassiness of the characters, as well as their deep love of family and friends.

Stella’s mama wants her married and having children so she does the only thing she can do – she puts Stella’s name on the prayer list at church asking for a husband.

Heather, the bossy leader of the church’s Prayer Angels, decides to take Stella’s plight a step further and turn it into her own Marriage Ministry. With Heather’s plans in the works for a fancy ball to turn single folks into couples, Stella and her friends have their hands full if they’re going to throw a wrench in the works. To top it off, Stella’s got her own little secret that will not only shock her mama, but put the gossip tongues to wagging when they learn the identity of Stella’s mystery man.

Once again Brown brings small town charm and love of family to life through her characters. She creates characters that are believable and sincere. Her witty use of dialogue and interaction among characters quickly draws listeners/readers in. Her blend of Southern culture and friendship devotion makes this a fascinating story of romance, laughter and a touch of suspense.

THE YELLOW ROSE BEAUTY SHOP is the ideal place to turn for hours of entertainment that will warm your heart. Sexy Southern gentlemen and feisty Southern ladies some together in Cadillac, Texas, for a hair-raising good time.

The Yellow Rose Beauty Shop by Carolyn Brown, Cadillac, Texas Book #3, Narrated by Laural Merlington, Brilliance Audio, @2015, ISBN: 978-1491590522, Unabridged, 8 Discs, Run Time: 9 Hours and 41 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 for stopping by today. Are you a fan of zombie stories? What comes to mind when you hear the word zombies? What are your thoughts on beauty shops? Do you think of them as a place where gossip thrives? I hope you find these books as enjoyable as I did.

*This post contains affiliate links.

The Silenced by Heather Graham

You don’t have to be a firm believer in ghosts and/or the paranormal to enjoy author Heather Graham’s Krewe of Hunters series. Her latest release, THE SILENCED, is a prime example of her impressive writing.

Narrator Phil Gigante does an excellent job bringing the various characters to life. His varied cadence and mannerisms gives distinct voices to the characters, both male and female. His vocals emphasizes the emotions and tension of the story.

Lara Mayhew, a congressional media assistant, goes missing shortly after leaving a cryptic message for her childhood friend Meg Murray, an FBI agent fresh out of the academy. When bodies fitting Lara’s description begin turning up brutally murdered, Meg fears her friend may be the next victim.

Meanwhile, Meg has been recruited by the leader of the Krewe of Hunters, a special FBI unit for paranormal investigation. Paired with Special Agent Matt Bosworth, Meg is determined to find her friend and unravel the political conspiracy she appears to be entangled in. The attraction between Meg and Matt heats up as they close in on a twisted serial killer.

Graham has created characters that not only deal with the paranormal, but are realistic, likable and well-developed. Their interactions and dialogue flows smoothly in this fast-pace adventure. The story is filled with suspense highlighted by great twists and turns.

The political aspects of the story are interesting, while the historical setting is mesmerizing. THE SILENCED focuses on a vicious killer and the lengths he will go to achieve the ultimate reward. The paranormal element adds to the intrigue, but doesn’t overwhelm the story. This story is a standalone and listeners/readers won’t be left in the dark if this is their first venture into the work of the Krewe of Hunters.

Author Heather Graham’s website is here.

The Silenced by Heather Graham, Krewe of Hunters Book #15, Narrated by Phil Gigante, Brilliance Audio, @2015, ISBN: 978-1491505069, Unabridged, 8 Discs, Run Time: 9 Hours and 12 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.

I do so appreciate you stopping by today and taking a look at this fascinating story. Don’t shy away from the story just because you’re not a fan of the paranormal. You might be surprised, give it a try. Have you read or listened to any of the Krewe of Hunters series? Are you a fan of the paranormal? Hope everyone has a great Friday and a wonderful weekend.

*This post contains affiliate links.

The Betrayed and The Christmas Bouquet

I have two audio books to share with you today in completely different genres, yet they share some of the same elements that makes for good reading/listening. Hope you find them enticing.

THE BETRAYED by Heather Graham

Halloween may be over but scary, suspenseful stories are entertaining no matter what season it is.

In Author Heather Graham’s THE BETRAYED, the town of Sleepy Hollow is the scene of a crime when an up and coming politician, Richard Highsmith, goes missing.

Narrator Luke Daniels does a wonderful job giving voice to the various characters. His cadence and mannerisms matches and enhances the emotions of the story. His delivery of the dialogue adds depth to the already tantalizing story.

FBI Agent Aiden Mahoney, a new member of the Krewe of Hunters (the FBI’s unit of paranormal investigators), is sent to Sleepy Hollow to investigate Highsmith’s disappearance. He and Highsmith are old friends from Sleepy Hollow, but no one knows Highsmith came to him in a dream the night before he was reported missing.

In Sleepy Hollow Maureen ‘Mo’ Deaville and her dog, Rollo, are known for finding missing people. They quickly find Highsmith, but it’s only his head on a statue of the legendary Headless Horseman. When a headless body is discover a short time later, it’s a woman and they realize a bizarre killer is in town.

Aiden is drawn to Mo as they begin working together to find the connection between the two victims and the town. They soon realize they also share a unique talent – they can see and talk with the dead. As their attraction grows so does the body county. The killer is closer than they think and closing in on them fast.

Graham’s rich descriptions of the setting brings Sleepy Hollow to life. Her characters are intriguing and likable. The story flows smoothly with numerous twists and turns hiding the identity of the real killer until the end.

THE BETRAYED is the 14th installment in the Krewe of Hunters series, but can be read/listened to on its own. Each installment, while bringing in some characters from previous stories, deals with new members of the group each time adding to an already fascinating assembly of characters.

Graham blends suspense, murder, humor, romance and a touch of paranormal into an engaging story also filled with bits of history. The Headless Horseman takes on a whole new twist. 

The Betrayed by Heather Graham, Krewe of Hunters Book #14, Narrated by Luke Daniels, Brilliance Audio, @2014, ISBN: 978-1469221915, Unabridged, 8 Discs, Run Time: 9 Hours and 46 Minutes 

FTC Full Disclosure – A copy of this 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.

THE CHRISTMAS BOUQUET by Sherryl Woods

Caitlyn Winters is the most irritating protagonist I have ever listened to, but at the same time found to be a strong character.

Narrator Christina Traister does an excellent job bringing the various characters to life in this Chesapeake Shores novel. Her cadence and varied accents enhances the story. Her mannerisms add depth.

Caitlyn Winters thought catching the bridal bouquet at a Christmas wedding was the worst thing she had ever done. It wasn’t because since then she had fallen in love with Noah McIlroy, but because she now found herself unexpectedly pregnant and her life’s plans spinning out of her control. An extremely driven medical student, Caitlyn’s plans were to become a doctor in Africa and Noah, a family medicine resident, was to open his own practice in an out of the way community that needed his help.

Now Noah and her O’Brien relatives think she should put her plans on hold, marry and raise her child. It will take a lot of understand and persuasion to get Caitlyn onboard with this new plan that would have her living in Chesapeake Shores and practicing medicine with her new husband.

This is a cute story that I have a love/hate attitude about. I love the plot, most of the characters and the setting is delightful. I hate that the Caitlyn character comes across as caring for her dream of helping sick children overseas so much more than she cares for her own unborn child. She’s even more concerned about being a good doctor than she is taking proper care of herself during her pregnancy. I like that she is dedicated to her cause, but it does go to the extreme. 

THE CHRISTMAS BOUQUET is a charming story that deals with love, patience, understanding and acceptance. While I found myself wanting to shake some sense into Caitlyn, I also understood her fears at times.

In the end, author Sherryl Woods’ talent for crafting holiday magic shines through.

The Christmas Bouquet by Sherryl Woods, Chesapeake Shores Series Book #11, Narrated by Christina Traister, Brilliance Audio, @2014, ISBN: 978-1480582804, Unabridged, 6 Discs, Run Time: 6 Hours and 30 Minutes 

FTC Full Disclosure – A copy of this 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 for stopping by today. Hope your Saturday is going well and the weather is not making for a terrible day. Our forecast is for rain off and on today so it’ll be a good day to do some baking and a lot of audio book listening. Have you ever enjoyed a book, but not the main character? Would you like to spend some time in Sleepy Hollow or have you already visited?

*This post contains affiliate links.

The Hexed & Cut and Thrust

I’ve been busy listening to audios, so I have two more interesting books to share with you today.

THE HEXED by Heather Graham

Author Heather Graham gives some insight into the Salem witch trials as she blends the past and present into a spine-tingling thriller in THE HEXED.

Narrator Luke Daniels does a superb job giving each character their own unique voice. His varied pace and inflection matches the tension in the story enhancing it.

Devin Lyle has moved back to the Salem area living in the cabin she inherited from her great-aunt Mina, who the locals sometimes called the ‘witch in the woods.’ Devin just wants peace and quiet to write her children’s books. But a strange sound one night leads her into the nearby woods where she finds a dead woman and her life changes forever.

Craig ‘Rocky’ Rockwell never got over finding a classmate dead in the woods when they were in high school. He went on to become a cop and has recently joined the Krewe of Hunters, a team of paranormal investigators working under the FBI.

The body Devin found is so similar to Rocky’s friend that he knows they’re connected even though it’s been over 10 years between the murders. As Rocky interviews Devin, he feels a connection and can even see her great-aunt Mina (something Devin has just learned she can do too). As the investigation continues, Rocky and Devin discover all their friends are possible suspects in the murders. After a third woman is found, Rocky fears Devin’s ancestry could cause her to be the next victim.

Combining the history of Salem with an intriguing storyline, Graham will have you believing in ghosts, witches and forever love. The characters are well-developed and likable. They story flows at a steady pace with twists, turns and a few red herrings (as well as a raven) along the way.

Graham’s eye for detail and vivid descriptions of the area places the reader/listener in the middle of Salem and its rich history. She incorporates romance, friendship, and moments of laugh-out-loud humor for a tantalizing story that will hold you spellbound until the end.

While THE HEXED is the 13th installment in the Krewe of Hunters series, it is a standalone story. Returning fans will be reunited with several members from previous adventures, but new readers/listeners won’t be left in the dark searching for missing clues.

Graham’s infusion of romance and humor with the paranormal keeps the story from being too dark while still stirring the flames of suspense and murder.

The Hexed by Heather Graham, The Krewe of Hunters Book #13, Performed by Luke Daniels, Brilliance Audio, @2014, ISBN: 978-1469221830, Unabridged, 8 Discs, Listening Time: 9 Hours and 35 Minutes 

FTC Full Disclosure - 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.

CUT AND THRUST by Stuart Woods

My love of audio books began many years ago listening on a cassette player to a story by author Stuart Woods where the protagonist was named Ed Eagle.

Ed, who has several books in his own series, is among the main players in CUT AND THRUST by Stuart Woods, the 30th installment in his Stone Barrington series. This time around Woods puts Barrington and Eagle in a story with the protagonists from yet another of his series featuring Will and Katherine Lee.

Narrator Tony Roberts does his usual wonderful job bringing the characters to life. He masters the cadence for all the characters from Stone to gruff Dino to the various female voices. His mannerisms enhance the story.

While Woods’ writing has mellowed a bit since that first audio I listened to, it’s always fun catching up with his characters – especially Stone Barrington.

In CUT AND THRUST the story focuses on Stone’s helping Kate Lee in her bid for the Democratic presidential nominee. A side story deals with Ed Eagle and the problems he continues to have concerning an ex-wife who is a bit over the edge. There’s not a lot of action or drama, but an unexpected and interesting twist at the end dealing with Ed’s ex.

For fans of Stone Barrington, Will and Katherine Lee, Ed Eagle and Stuart Woods, CUT AND THRUST is an entertaining addition you shouldn’t miss.

Cut and Thrust by Stuart Woods, Stone Barrington Novel Book #30, Performed by Tony Roberts, Penguin Audio, @2014, ISBN: 978-1611762822, Unabridged, 6 Discs, Listening Time: Approximately 7 Hours 

FTC Full Disclosure - 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.

(NOTE: The first audio I listened to was SANTA FE RULES.)

Thanks so much for stopping by today. What do you have lined up to read or listen to? Doesn't the cover of THE HEXED just draw you in?

*Authors Carolyn Wolfe and Christopher Cloud were slated to be here today, but were unable to. Hopefully we can reschedule their visit at a later date.

**This post contains affiliate links.