A Shoe Addict’s Christmas by Beth Harbison

I realize Fall has just begun, we haven’t even celebrated Halloween, and Christmas is still a ways off. However, I couldn’t resist sharing this delightful holiday story with you now. You’ll see why.

◊ A SHOE ADDICT’S CHRISTMAS by Beth Harbison

◊ Narrator: Orlagh Cassidy

◊ Audio CD, 3 CDs

◊ Listening Length: 2 hours and 37 minutes

◊ Program Type: Audiobook

◊ Genre: Holidays, Literature, Fiction

◊ Version: Unabridged

◊ Publisher: Macmillan Audio

◊ Release Date: October 18, 2016

◊ Language: English

◊ ASIN: BO1LWYM5KN

◊ ISBN-10: 1427278644

◊ ISBN-13: 978-1427278647

SYNOPSIS:

From the author of the beloved bestseller, Shoe Addicts Anonymous comes a heartwarming twist on a classic tale filled with holiday cheer.

Noelle is not a fan of the holidays and to make matters worse, she is at a crossroads in her life when it seems that love and adventure are no longer possible. When she stays late at her job in a department store on a snowy Christmas Eve she accidentally gets locked in after closing. She isn’t too concerned about the prospect of spending the night in the store…until a woman appears out of nowhere and tells Noelle that she’s her guardian angel. Soon Noelle finds herself camped out in the shoe department facing several “ghosts” of Christmases past, present, and future...

Will visiting the holidays of yesterday and tomorrow help Noelle see the true spirit of Christmas? And will the love she has longed for all her life be the best surprise gift of all?

There have been countless spins on the holiday classic A CHRISTMAS CAROL, but none quite like author Beth Harbison’s A SHOE ADDICT’S CHRISTMAS.

The narration by Orlagh Cassidy is excellent. Her mannerisms and accents enhance this charming story. Her inflections of the vocals add depth to this tale.

The characters are well-developed, realistic, and likable. Charlie is a delight with wisdom and humor, while readers will be able to relate to the antics of the protagonist, Noelle.

The story setting is a bit different and adds another layer to the story. The author includes the fantasy of being allowed all access to a lavish department store with the heart of the story.

The story moves at a quick pace and holds your attention. The concept of what might have been will strike a chord with most readers/listeners. While this tale doesn’t include the appearance of three ghosts, it does have the protagonist revisiting past events.

A SHOE ADDICT’S CHRISTMAS is an inspiring holiday reminder that sometimes we all have to step out of our comfort zone to find happiness. This is a must read/listen to tale this Christmas season even if you’re not a shoeaholic. Short, sweet, and sentimental this story is sure to become a holiday classic in its own right.

A Shoe Addict’s Christmas by Beth Harbison, Narrated by Orlagh Cassidy, Macmillan Audio, @2016, ISBN: 978-1427278647, Unabridged, 3 CDs, Run Time: 2 Hours and 37 Minutes

FTC Full Disclosure – A copy of this audio book was sent to me by the publisher. 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 already lining up your Christmas reading material? Have you ever gotten locked in a department store after closing? Would you want to be locked in a major department store after closing?

A Great Reckoning by Louise Penny

◊ A GREAT RECKONING by Louise Penny

◊ Series: Chief Inspector Gamache Novel, Book #12

◊ Narrator: Robert Bathurst

◊ Audio CD: 11 Discs

◊ Listening Length: 13 hours and 33 minutes

◊ Program Type: Audiobook

◊ Genre: Mystery, Thriller, Suspense

◊ Version: Unabridged

◊ Publisher: Macmillan Audio

◊ Scheduled Release Date: August 30, 2016

◊ Language: English

◊ ISBN-10: 1427274401

◊ ISBN-13: 978-1427274403

*This book is available for pre-order!

SYNOPSIS:

When an intricate old map is found stuffed into the walls of the bistro in Three Pines, it at first seems no more than a curiosity. But the closer the villagers look, the stranger it becomes.

Given to Armand Gamache as a gift the first day of his new job, the map eventually leads him to shattering secrets. To an old friend and older adversary. It leads the former chief of Homicide for the Sûreté du Québec to places even he is afraid to go. But must.

And there he finds four young cadets in the Sûreté academy and a dead professor. And, with the body, a copy of the old, odd map.

Everywhere Gamache turns, he sees Amelia Choquet, one of the cadets. Tattooed and pierced. Guarded and angry. Amelia is more likely to be found on the other side of a police line-up. And yet she is in the academy. A protégée of the murdered professor.

The focus of the investigation soon turns to Gamache himself and his mysterious relationship with Amelia, and his possible involvement in the crime. The frantic search for answers takes the investigators back to Three Pines and a stained glass window with its own horrific secrets.

For both Amelia Choquet and Armand Gamache, the time has come for a great reckoning.

New York Times best-selling author Louise Penny pulls back the layers to reveal a brilliant and emotionally powerful truth in her latest spellbinding audiobook.

It’s strange when you find yourself saying, ‘He wouldn’t do that, he’s not that type of man’ and you’re talking about a character in a book you’re reading.

Author Louise Penny has created such rich, detailed characters that as a fan I feel the core cast of characters are real when I’m immersed in one of her stories. Such is the case in her soon-to-be released book, A GREAT RECKONING.

Narrator Robert Bathurst does a wonderful job giving unique voices to these characters as they come to life. His cadence and accent draws you in and his timing and pitch is spot on. His interruption of the emotions enhances this gripping story. This book is wonderful in audio format. The language heard as it should be spoken adds another layer to this enthralling story.

Penny’s mesmerizing style of writing draws you in, pulling you deeper into the story so you don’t want out without knowing the outcome. The characters are well-developed and extremely likable. New readers will come away feeling they know the characters well. Returning fans will find even more reason to cherish these exceptional characters.

The settings, both real and fictional, come to life through Penny’s luscious descriptions. She combines real history to blend a fascinating tale of mystery and intrigue.

The story flows smoothly and at a steady pace. The suspense is breathtaking and just when you have a clue another door is opened and your opinion will change. The story builds to a pulse-pounding conclusion with a surprise twist at the end.

Three Pines has its secrets and pain, but it’s an enchanted place to visit. The village and its diverse residents will feel like home and family. While you’re anxious to know the why and why, you’re not ready to say goodbye when things settle down.

A GREAT RECKONING takes readers/listeners on a ride of highs and lows as it brings clarity to returning fans without leaving new readers/listeners in the dark. Another beguiling tale from a master storyteller.

The Great Reckoning by Louise Penny, Chief Inspector Gamache Novel (Book #12), Narrated by Robert Bathurst, Macmillan Audio, @2016, ISBN: 978-1427274403, Unabridged, 11 CD Discs, Run Time: 13 Hours and 33 Minutes. (*This book is also available in eBook, hardcover, and Audible.)

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. Are you a fan of the Chief Inspector Gamache novels? If so, do you have a favorite character?

Damaged … Ingredienti

I have two seemingly unrelated stories to tell you about today – DAMAGED: A Novel by Lisa Scottoline and INGREDIENTI by Marcella Hazan and Victor Hazan.

I say the two books have a few things in common. I listened to both as audio books (and both also come in print) and both are extremely good for their genre. I like sharing diversity with you and I hope you enjoy the varied reviews you find here.

◊ DAMAGED: A Novel by Lisa Scottoline

◊ Series: A Rosato & DiNunzio Novel, Book #4

◊ Narrator: Rebecca Lowman

◊ Audio CD: 11 Discs

◊ Listening Length: 13 hours and 35 minutes

◊ Program Type: Audiobook

◊ Genre: Mystery, Thriller

◊ Version: Unabridged

◊ Publisher: Macmillan Audio

◊ Scheduled Release Date: August 16, 2016

◊ Language: English

◊ ISBN-10: 1427278709

◊ ISBN-13: 978-1427278708

SYNOPSIS:

One boy. One lawyer. One chance for justice.

Ten-year-old Patrick O'Brien is a natural target at school. Shy, dyslexic, and small for his age, he tries to hide his first-grade reading level from everyone: from his classmates, from the grandfather who cares for him, and from the teachers who are supposed to help him. But the real trouble begins when Patrick is accused of attacking a school aide. The aide promptly quits and sues the boy, his family, and the school district. Patrick's grandfather turns to the law firm of Rosato & DiNunzio for help and Mary DiNunzio is on the case. Soon Mary becomes Patrick's true champion and his only hope for security and justice. But there is more to the story than meets the eye and Patrick might be more troubled than he seems. With twists at every turn and secrets about the family coming to light, Mary DiNunzio might have found the case that can make her a true protector, or break her heart...

With Lisa Scottoline’s trademark emotional depth and fast-paced action, Damaged will have readers riveted to the last page as they root for the beloved characters and their fight for justice.

Author Lisa Scottoline is a diverse writer who will have you crying, laughing, angry and ready to fight all within the first few pages of her book.

Narrator Rebecca Lowman does a wonderful job vocalizing the varying emotions of the characters. Her cadence and timing are spot on. She gives each character their own unique voice. Her mannerisms add depth to this tantalizing tale.

In DAMAGED, Scottoline blends heartbreaking events with humor for a well-balanced story. Her characters are realistic and likable. The protagonist is dedicated and determined with a heart of gold and a strong love of her family.

With rich descriptions and vivid details, the author brings the setting to life. You feel the traditions and love of the DiNunzio family and their friends. You get a sense of what life is like in their neighborhood.

Grabbing your attention at the beginning, Scottoline takes readers on a roller coaster ride of emotions and suspense as the story unfolds. Just as you catch your breath thinking things will settle down, the author throws you a curve and off you go again.

Pulling on your heart strings, this pulse-pounding novel and its unique characters will stay with you long after it ends.

Damaged: A Novel by Lisa Scottoline, A Rosato & DiNunzio Novel (Book #4), Narrated by Rebecca Lowman, Macmillan Audio, @2016, ISBN: 978-1427278708, Unabridged, 11 Discs, Run Time: 13 Hours and 35 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.

◊ INGREDIENTI: Marcella’s Guide to the Market by Marcella Hazan and Victor Hazan

◊ Narrator: Elizabeth Wiley

◊ Audio CD: 4 Discs

◊ Listening Length: 4 hours and 56 minutes

◊ Program Type: Audiobook

◊ Genre: Cooking, Food, Italian Cooking

◊ Version: Unabridged

◊ Publisher: Tantor Audio

◊ Release Date: July 12, 2016

◊ Language: English

◊ ISBN-10: 151595787X

◊ ISBN-13: 978-1515957874

SYNOPSIS:

When Marcella Hazan died in 2013, the world mourned the passing of the "Godmother of Italian cooking."

But her legacy lives on, through her cookbooks and recipes, and in the handwritten notebooks filled with her thoughts on how to select the best ingredients-Ingredienti. Her husband and longtime collaborator Victor has translated and transcribed these vignettes on how to buy and what to do with the fresh produce used in Italian cooking, the elements of an essential pantry, and salumi. Before you know how to cook, you must know how to shop.

 From Artichokes to Zucchini, Anchovies to Ziti, Ingredienti offers succinct and compelling advice on how to choose vegetables, pasta, olive oil, Parmigiano Reggiano, prosciutto, and all of the key elements of Marcella's classic meals. Organic isn't necessarily best, boxed pasta can be better than fresh. Marcella's authoritative wisdom and surprising tips will change the way you cook.

INGREDIENTI is not a book you’ll read once and put aside to never touch again. It’s one you’ll come back to time and time again. It’s jammed paced with helpful information about common and not-so-common food items we purchase and consume daily.

Narrated by Elizabeth Wiley, the helpful instructions flow effortlessly. Wiley’s vocals enhance and her accent brings the advice to life. Her voice is smooth and comforting like the foods she describes.

This is a fascinating story about various foods, the best ways to prepare them and the best ways to store them. Through the rich descriptions, listeners/readers can almost smell the tantalizing aromas fill the air from the freshly prepared dishes. There are no step-by-step recipes to follow, only discussions on how things can be prepared and what they are good paired with. This is not a recipe book, but a book to help you purchase and preserve food to get the most out of it.

Listeners/readers will never look at grocery shopping quite the same after spending a few hours with Marcella’s instructions. Don’t be surprised if you even find yourself rearranging your refrigerator after listening/reading this delightful book.

This instruction guide with an Italian flare is a must-have for every kitchen.

Ingredienti: Marcella’s Guide to the Market by Marcella Hazan and Victor Hazan, Narrated by Elizabeth Wiley, Tantor Audio, @2016, ISBN: 978-1515957874, Unabridged, 4 Discs, Run Time: 4 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.

Thanks for stopping by today. Are you a fan of author Lisa Scottoline’s writing? Have you listened to a food-related book before or do you prefer only print when it comes to anything to do with cooking?

Boar Island … Rules of Love and Grammar

BOAR ISLAND by Nevada Barr

◊ BOAR ISLAND by Nevada Barr

◊ Series: Anna Pigeon Mysteries (#19)

◊ Narrator: Barbara Rosenblat

◊ Audio CD

◊ Listening Length: 10 hours and 22 minutes

◊ Program Type: Audiobook

◊ Genre:  Mystery, Thriller

◊ Version: Unabridged

◊ Publisher: Macmillan Audio

◊ Release Date: May 17, 2016

◊ Language: English

◊ ISBN: 10: 1427272530

◊ ISBN: 13: 978-1427272539

SYNOPSIS:

Anna Pigeon, in her career as a National Park Service Ranger, has had to deal with all manner of crimes and misdemeanors, but cyber-bullying and stalking is a new one. The target is Elizabeth, the adopted teenage daughter of her friend Heath Jarrod. Elizabeth is driven to despair by the disgusting rumors spreading online and bullying texts. Until, one day, Heath finds her daughter Elizabeth in the midst of an unsuccessful suicide attempt. And then she calls in the cavalry---her aunt Gwen and her friend Anna Pigeon.

While they try to deal with the fragile state of affairs---and find the person behind the harassment---the three adults decide the best thing to do is to remove Elizabeth from the situation. Since Anna is about to start her new post as Acting Chief Ranger at Acadia National Park in Maine, the three will join her and stay at a house on the cliff of a small island near the park, Boar Island.

But the move east doesn't solve the problem. The stalker has followed them east. And Heath (a paraplegic) and Elizabeth aren't alone on the otherwise deserted island. At the same time, Anna has barely arrived at Acadia before a brutal murder is committed by a killer uncomfortably close to her.

BOAR ISLAND is a brilliant intertwining of past and present, of victims and killers, in a compelling audiobook that could only come from Nevada Barr.

The author’s characters are well-developed and realistic. Their interactions are plausible. She shows a vulnerable side to her characters, but also gives them strength and determination in other areas readers/listeners can relate to.

Narrator Barbara Rosenblat does a great job of bringing the characters to life through her various vocals. Her mannerisms enhance the story and adds to the emotional elements.

The rugged setting of a national park draws you in as the action of the story unfolds. The author weaves the strips of mystery into an entertaining tale.

The story moves at a good pace as you fit the pieces together.

Boar Island by Nevada Barr, Anna Pigeon Mysteries (Book #19), Narrated by Barbara Rosenblat, Macmillan Audio, @2016, ISBN: 978-1427272539, Unabridged, Audio 10 CDs, Run Time: 12.5 Hours

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 RULES OF LOVE & GRAMMAR by Mary Simses

◊ THE RULES OF LOVE & GRAMMAR by Mary Simses

◊ Narrator: Khristine Hvam

◊ Audible Audio Edition

◊ Listening Length: 10 hours and 22 minutes

◊ Program Type: Audiobook

◊ Genre:  Contemporary Women, Women’s Fiction

◊ Version: Unabridged

◊ Publisher: Hachette Audio

◊ Audible.com Release Date: May 31, 2016

◊ Language: English

◊ ASIN: BO1G7KNZDA

SYNOPSIS:

  A woman finds love and closure and rediscovers herself when she returns to her roots in the enchanting new novel from the author of The Irresistible Blueberry Bakeshop & Café.

          Newly jobless, newly single, and suddenly apartmentless, writer Grace Hammond has come unmoored. A grammar whiz who's brilliant at correcting other people's errors, she hasn't yet found quite the right set of rules for fixing her own mistakes.

Desperate to escape the city and her trifecta of problems, Grace hits pause and retreats to her Connecticut hometown. What begins as a short visit with her parents quickly becomes a far more meaningful stay, though, as she discovers that the answers to what her future holds might be found by making peace with - and even embracing - the past.

As Grace sets out to change her ways and come to terms, finally, with the tragedy that took her older sister's life so many years ago, she rekindles a romance with her high school sweetheart, Peter, now a famous Hollywood director who's filming a movie in town. Sparks also fly at the local bike shop, where Grace's penchant for pointing out what's wrong rattles the owner's ruggedly handsome schoolteacher son, Mitch.

Torn between the promise of a glamorous life and the allure of the familiar, Grace must decide what truly matters - and whether it's time for her to throw away the rule book and bravely follow her heart.

The protagonist, Grace Hammond, is one of those characters readers/listeners can pull for with her unlucky streak, but also get upset with when she acts foolish. She’s a character that will stay with you for a while.

Narrator Khristine Hvam does a good job of bringing all the emotions to the foreground. Her various vocals gives each character a distinct sound.

The small town atmosphere is charming and inviting. Through detail descriptions and an eye for detail, the author puts you in the middle of the scene. The story moves at a good pace as it draws you in. With a few twists and turns along the way, readers/listeners pull for Grace to find her path.

The story also deals with how a death of a child impacts the entire family for years to come. With a mix of humor and romance, the story will touch your heart and encourage you to recall fond memories of your yesteryears. The tidbits of grammar and how it should be used at the beginning of each chapter is an added bonus.

The Rules of Love & Grammar by Mary Simses, Narrated by Khristine Hvam, Hachette Audio, @2016, ASIN: BO1G7KNZDA, Unabridged, Audible Audio Edition, Run Time: 10 Hours and 22 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. I hope I’ve enticed you to check out one or both of these entertaining audios. June is National Audio Month so give an audio a listen. Are you familiar with either of these authors and/or narrators?

The Dirt on Ninth Grave by Darynda Jones

What happens when the Grim Reaper loses her memory?

If the Reaper is Charlotte “Charley” Davidson, then you find her waiting tables in a little diner in Sleepy Hollow, NY, and going by the name Janey Doerr.

Narrator Lorelei King does a superb job giving distinct voices to the numerous characters. King’s cadence and flare with vocals enhances this tantalizing tale. King’s spot on performance adds depth and dimension to Charley and the gang.

Charley wakes up in the alley behind the diner with no memory. The diner owner gives her a job and she begins trying to figure out who she is and why she can see dead people. Before long she gets to know a new waitress named Cookie and a number of regular customers who all seem to know more about her then she does herself. Charley finds herself especially drawn to the sexy, mysterious customer named Reyes, who is always around and soon becomes a short order cook at the diner.

When the family of a nearby shop owner is held hostage by thieves, Charley/Janey can’t help but get involved. With the help of a teenage ghost, Charley/Janey is determined to free the family even if it means she could get killed. On her quest to help others, Charley learns who she really is.

Author Darynda Jones continues to blend mystery, the paranormal, humor, romance and suspense with a story that will hold you captive. The characters are quirky and likable.

The story flows fast with twists, turns and a few surprises. The paranormal seems every day through the rich descriptions of the author.

THE DIRT ON NINTH GRAVE can be read/listened to on its own. However, for a deeper understanding of the characters and the plot, the series should be read/listened to in order.

With the trio of Jones, King and Davidson you will be laughing out loud one minute and on the edge of your seat in suspense the next.

The Dirt on Ninth Grave by Darynda Jones, Charley Davidson series (Book #9), Narrated by Lorelei King, Macmillan Audio, @2015, ISBN: 978-1427264046, Unabridged, 8 Discs, Run Time: 10 Hours 

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. I hope I've enticed you to check out the Charley Davidson series by Darynda Jones. It's a fun series.

Once A Crooked Man by David McCallum

What starts out as a simple act of help becomes a life changing event for the protagonist in David McCallum’s ONCE A CROOKED MAN.

To enhance the story even more, it’s narrated by the author himself. McCallum brings his characters to life with great emotion and enthusiasm.

Sal, Max and Enzo Bruschetti have been running their disreputable business enterprises for years. When a health issue sends Max to the hospital, the doctor tells him it’s time to slow down and take life easier. He devises a plan to close some of their dealings and become legit businessmen. There are, however, a few people who will have to be done away with to make this work.

At the moment of the Bruschetti’s deadly discussion, actor Harry Murphy had to answer the call of nature in an alley next to the restaurant where they were meeting. It was just Harry’s luck to be under an open window and hear bits of the conversation.

Later reflecting on what he had heard, Harry decides to try and warn one of the intended victims of what is planned. Harry’s trip to London sets into motion a series of events that sends his life on a path he never imaged and him playing a role that could get him killed.

Mixing mobsters, law enforcement agencies, innocent bystanders and a bag of cash, McCallum has Harry playing out fantasy roles of gangster, spy and hero. Combining the crafty cunningness of a hired killer, the antics of a rogue female cop and the missteps of a want-to-be spy with humor and intrigue makes this a story packed with suspense and lots of surprises.

The story moves at a fast pace holding your attention with its many twists and turns. The characters are quirky, well-developed and easy to like. The setting switches between New York and London with ease.

As the story unfolds, the characters evolve and take on new dimensions giving more depth to the plot. It’s a fascinating story that will keep you guessing right up until the surprise ending.

ONCE A CROOKED MAN may have you rethinking doing a good deed … and then again. Can’t wait to see what Harry gets himself into next.

Once A Crooked Man by David McCallum, Narrated by David McCallum, Macmillan Audio, @2016, ISBN: 978-1427271709, Unabridged, 10 Discs, Run Time: 12 Hours

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.

Author David McCallum

Thanks for stopping by today, I do so appreciate it. I hope I’ve enticed you to check out this intriguing novel. In case you’re wondering about the author, yep it’s written and read by Ducky from NCIS. Do you remember what other character he played many years ago that was so popular?