Reckless Creed by Alex Kava

◊ Reckless Creed by Alex Kava

◊ Series: A Ryder Creed Novel, Book #3

◊ Narrator: Graham Winton

◊ Audible Audio Edition

◊ Listening Length: 7 hours and 1 minutes

◊ Program Type: Audiobook

◊ Genre: Mystery, Thriller, Suspense

◊ Version: Unabridged

◊ Publisher: Recorded Books

◊ Release Date: September 27, 2016

◊ Language: English

◊ ASIN: BO1K25LOV6

◊ ISBN-10: 1445055856

◊ ISBN-13: 978-1445055855

SYNOPSIS:

In the new edge-of-your-seat thriller from New York Times best-selling author Alex Kava, Ryder Creed, his K-9 search-and-rescue dogs, and FBI agent Maggie O'Dell find themselves at the center of a dire and mysterious case.

In Chicago a young man jumps from his 30th-story hotel room; along the Missouri River, a hunter and his son stumble upon a lake whose surface is littered with snow geese, all of them dead; and in Southern Alabama, Ryder Creed and his search-and-rescue dog, Grace, find the body of a young woman who went missing in the Conecuh National Forest, and it appears she filled her pockets with rocks and walked into the river.

Before long Ryder Creed and FBI profiler Maggie O'Dell will discover the ominous connection among these mysterious deaths. What they find may be the most prolific killer the United States has ever known.

Author Alex Kava takes a highly plausible threat and explodes it into a hold-your-breath new thriller.

Narrator Graham Winton does an excellent job bringing the story to life through his powerful vocals. Winton captures the emotions and tension of the characters. His tones and timing enhance the story.

The story moves back and forth from several locations setting up a timeline. The events unfold from the viewpoint of several characters giving a well-balanced look at the events. The story moves at a steady pace and holds your attention as you put the pieces together.

The characters are well-developed and likable. The core cast of characters continues to evolve giving returning fans a little extra.

RECKLESS CREED is the third installment in the Ryder Creed series but can be read/listened to on its own. There is enough background to help new readers/listeners understand what’s going on. But be aware the background bits may just be enough to peak your interest to check out the first two books (which I highly recommend).

This tantalizing tale will grip your heart and mind as the author explores possible threats man could face. The rush to find answers will have you on the edge of your seat. The results may have you rethinking how you connect with anyone who is sick.

Kava once again gives the dogs of this series their own just recognition. She explores how unwanted dogs can become heroes and how the bond with a canine can make a difference in a person’s life. If you’re an animal lover, you will appreciate the author’s compassion for dogs that shines through her writing.

Pitting man and canine against unknown hazardous, Kava has crafted a thriller to keep you ponder the possibilities for days. Some may not like how the story ends, while the case is solved you’re still left wondering what is coming next.

Reckless Creed by Alex Kava, A Ryder Creed Novel (Book #3), Narrated by Graham Winton, Recorded Books, @2016, ISBN: 978-1445055855, Unabridged, Audible Audio Edition, Run Time: 7 Hours and 1 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. Hope I’ve enticed you to check out this book and series. If you’re not an audio listener, the book is available in print and eBook formats. Have you ever been involved in the training of dogs that work with police? Have you heard of dogs that can smell different diseases in humans?

Miss Julia Inherits A Mess by Ann B. Ross

◊ MISS JULIA INHERITS A MESS by Ann B. Ross

◊ Series: A Miss Julia Novel (Book #17)

◊ Narrator: Cynthia Darlow

◊ Discs: 8

◊ Listening Length: 10 hours

◊ Program Type: Audiobook

◊ Genre: Mystery, Thriller, Women Sleuths

◊ Version: Unabridged

◊ Publisher: Recorded Books

◊ Audible.com Release Date: April 5 2016

◊ Language: English

◊ ISBN:13 978-1490649696

◊ ASIN: BO1DPSDBWW

SYNOPSIS:

In the latest in Ann B. Ross' New York Times best-selling series, Miss Julia finds herself an executrix on a desperate hunt for a valuable collectible amid a jumble of the estate's antiques, and if she finds a prize she can honor Miss Mattie's last wishes.

When Miss Julia hears that Miss Mattie Freeman has taken a fall and is in the hospital, she wishes she'd spent more time getting to know the woman - and not just because she's last to hear about the accident! So when the tumble proves fatal, the last thing Miss Julia expects is a phone call from Ernest Sitton, Attorney at Law. Suddenly, Miss Julia finds herself the executrix of Miss Mattie's estate, and from what Ernest has to say, Miss Mattie's coffers weren't exactly full.

Determined to find something of value for Miss Mattie's beneficiaries, Miss Julia is faced with a room full of clutter that's now hers to disperse. With the lovelorn caretaker Etta Mae Wiggins working overtime, her good friend Mildred Allen on bed rest, and Helen Stroud cataloging Miss Mattie's furniture, Miss Julia soon realizes she's got a million things to do to honor her friend's last wishes. Thank goodness for Miss Mattie's handsome young neighbor, Nate Wheeler, who's ever ready to help out, and of course for Sam, who's always willing to lend an ear. But when a young man claiming to be Miss Mattie's great-nephew turns up, demanding to live in her apartment while he writes a family history, Miss Julia will find herself closer to Mattie Freeman and her mysterious family than ever before.

In this 17th installment in the Miss Julia series, Ann B. Ross delivers another hilarious and bighearted novel celebrating the South's favorite steel magnolia and the unforgettable residents of Abottsville.

Miss Julia is a prim and proper Southern lady you may be tempted to dislike a bit for her so-called uppity attitude, but you’ll wind up laughing out loud at some of her antics and loving her.

Narrator Cynthia Darlow is spot on in her vocals of Miss Julia. Darlow’s accent and mannerisms intensifies this already delightful story. She enhances the story even more by giving each character their own unique sound.

Author Ann B. Ross has captured the small town feel in her descriptions of Abbotsville and its residents. Her characters are well-developed, likable and larger than life when it comes to their friendships and the measures they will take to help each other.

The story moves at a fast pace holding your attention from beginning to end. With a few surprises along the way, a dash of mystery and lots of good-old Southern humor this is a mesmerizing tale.

MISS JULIA INHERITS A MESS is the 17^th installment in the Miss Julia series, but can be read/listened to on its own. For an entertaining story that will make you laugh and wish the characters were real, this fits the bill. Ross brings good friends, family and fun together for a charming story you don’t want to miss.

Miss Julia Inherits A Mess by Ann B. Ross, A Miss Julia Novel (Book #17), Narrated by Cynthia Darlow, Recorded Books, @2016, ISBN: 978-1490649696, Unabridged, CDs: 8, 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 do so appreciate it. I’ve been absent these past couple of weeks, but I’ll be back around this coming week. Do you enjoy protagonist that have an attitude (but with a kind heart)? Have you ever read or listened to any of the Miss Julia books?

Breaking Creed by Alex Kava

Author Alex Kava’s love of animals, especially dogs, comes through in her latest thriller, BREAKING CREED.

You don’t have to be an animal lover to enjoy the intrigue in this first installment of Kava’s new series, A Ryder Creed Novel.

Narrator Graham Winton does an excellent job giving distinct voice to each of the characters. His cadence and pace enhances the characters’ emotions and tone of the story.

Ryder Creed, a K9 search-and-rescue dog trainer, has gained national attendance after he and his dogs helped in several major drug busts. When Creed and one of his dogs are called to search a commercial fishing vessel, the illegal cargo they discover is unexpected – young children being smuggled.

Days later working an airport detail looking for drugs, Creed finds himself helping a young girl who is being used by the cartel as a drug mule.

Meanwhile, FBI Agent Maggie O’Dell is dealing with a series of brutal murders that are leading to the drug cartel. As her investigation continues, it leads her to Creed and his discoveries. They have to work fast to discover who is giving the orders before everyone close to Creed is eliminated.

Kava masterfully blends the two stories together for an action-packed conclusion. She takes listeners/readers on a trip to various locations and places them in the center of the action.

The characters are realistic likable and well-developed. They are given strengths and weakness that listeners/readers can related to. The dogs are a vivid part of the story with unique personalities of their own.

The story flows smooth and at a quick pace that will hold you spellbound until the end. With twists and turns, this thriller is suspended yet blended with a good mix of humor and a touch of romance for a well-balanced story.

BREAKING CREED is the beginning of a fascinating new series that takes suspense to a new level.

Breaking Creed by Alex Kava, A Ryder Creed Novel Book #1, Narrated by Graham Winton, Recorded Books, @2015, ISBN: 978-1490630731, Unabridged, 6 Discs, Run Time: 7 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.

On a personal note, I found the author’s message at the end both heartbreaking and inspiring. Alex’s own dog, Scout, was by her side as she wrote this story, but passed away shortly afterwards. She has included a Scout in the series that promises to be a spitfire carrying on the spirit of her faithful companion.

Thanks so much for stopping by today. Have you ever had any dealings with search-and-rescue dogs? What about other service animals?

*This post contains affiliate links.

Miss Julia’s Marvelous Makeover

Miss Julia may come off as a bit stiff, prim and proper, but underneath she’s a force to be reckoned with that has a heart of gold.

Narrator Cynthia Darlow does a superb job giving distinct voices to all the characters. She beautifully captures the full spectrum of voices from the pre-teen girl to the mature gentlemen and everyone in between. She especially captures the essence of Miss Julia with her proper Southern lady exterior to her sweet internal feelings for her family and friends.

As summer approached Miss Julia thought her days would be filled with campaign-related issues as her husband Sam decides to run for the state senate. However, when a long forgotten cousin sends her granddaughter to Miss Julia to transform, the summer gets hotter than she ever imaged.

If the sullen Trixie isn’t enough to deal with, the sudden appearance of an on-line boyfriend adds to the maddening summer. It seems Trixie’s beau Rodney has his heart (and mind) set on building a cemetery on a piece of Miss Julia’s property. No matter that she doesn’t want to sell it, Rodney and his not-so-silent partner are determined to change her mind one way or another.

An uninvited houseguest, a senate campaign, and land grabbers have Miss Julia wishes she’d taken Sam up on his long summer vacation suggestion.

Author Ann B. Ross once again combines Southern etiquette with laughter and suspense for an entertaining story. The characters are likable and full of flare. The secondary characters enhance the story.

The political backdrop in the small town setting adds depth to the story. Filled with humor and intrigue, the story flows quickly and holds your attention as you wonder how certain issues will be resolved.

MISS JULIA’S MARVELOUS MAKEOVER is a charming story that will have you shaking your head at the nerve of some people. This story can be read/listened to on its own, but you will probably have a better appreciation of the characters’ relationships if you read/listen to the series in order.

Miss Julia doesn’t disappoint when it comes to hilarious adventures and proper etiquette.

Miss Julia’s Marvelous Makeover by Ann B. Ross, Miss Julia Series Book #14, Narrated by Cynthia Darlow, Recorded Books, @2014, ISBN: 978-1470395551, Unabridged, 8 Discs, Run Time: 9.75 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 so much for stopping by today. Have you read or listened to any of the Miss Julia series? Do you like stories where the protagonist is a ‘woman of a certain age’ or do you prefer younger protagonist?

*This post contains affiliate links.

Declan’s Cross and Death of a Policeman

I have two delightful audio books to share with you today.

DECLAN’S CROSS by Carla Neggers

If you’re looking for an escape from the recent crazy weather, author Carla Neggers’ DECLAN’S CROSS will transport you to beautiful Ireland.

Narrator Carol Monda does a terrific job bringing the characters to life. She gives each character their own unique voice with her mannerisms.

FBI Agents Colin Donovan and Emma Sharpe are enjoying some down time in Ireland. Meanwhile, marine biologist Julianne Maroney has come to Declan’s Cross to heal her broken heart after a split with Colin’s brother, Andy. She didn’t know Colin and Emma were in the Irish seaside village. She was to stay with a friend, Lindsey, but it seemed upon arriving that Lindsey was missing.

Things change drastically for the trio when Lindsey is found dead. At first it looks like an accident, but then it appears Lindsey was pushed from a cliff to her death.
A new layer is added when Lindsey’s father arrives in the village. He could possibly have a connection to a decade old art theft that Emma’s grandfather, a renowned art detective, investigated. The stolen art nor the thief have never been found.

What follows is an intriguing story with a number of subplots all combining for a suspenseful tale. The story moves at a steady pace with twists and turns.
The characters are realistic and well-developed. They have flaws and concerns readers can relate to. The interaction among family members adds depth to the characters.

The author’s rich descriptions and eye for detail makes the reader/listener feel transported to Ireland. Her vivid accounts of the area bring it to life.

DECLAN’S CROSS is the third installment in the Sharpe and Donovan series, but can be read/listened to on its own. There are references to past issues, but new readers/listeners won’t be left in the dark.

This is a tantalizing tale of murder, art thefts, and mayhem with moments of subtle romance woven throughout. Set in a fascinating Celtic seaside village, this suspenseful tale will hold you spellbound until the end.

Declan’s Cross by Carla Neggers, A Sharpe and Donovan Novel Book #3, Performed by Carol Monda, Recorded Books, @2013 ISBN: 978-1464018220, Unabridged, 9 Discs, Running Time: 9 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.

DEATH OF A POLICEMAN by M.C. Beaton

Sergeant Hamish Macbeth is unlike most policemen you will encounter in murder mysteries. Hamish is more of a laid-back, low-tech officer, but still very dedicated to protecting the residents of Lachdubh in the Scottish Highlands.

The narration by Graeme Malcolm brings the story to life. Malcolm’s cadence and mannerisms adds depth to the story and gives individual voices to the characters.

With the threat of local police stations being closed, Detective Chief Inspector Blair sees an opportunity to possibly get rid of Hamish. He sends Cyril Sessions, a young policeman, to spy on Hamish and document his laziness.

Hamish discovers Sessions is spying on him and begins a plan to spoil Blair’s plot. However, Sessions is murdered and it’s up to Hamish to prove his own innocence, find the real killer and expose Blair’s dirty dealings.

As the investigation gets underway, a woman is found dead in Hamish’s garden. He realizes the body is a warning that he’s digging into something much bigger than he first expected.

The plot is filled with twists and turns. It also includes a number of zany characters such as the spinster librarian, Hetty, who was briefly involved with Sessions and has serious problems of her own. In addition, Hamish is forced to take actions to save his police station that he doesn’t like but doesn’t have a choice.

The author draws you in with the vivid details and descriptions of the area and its residents. The characters are likable and colorful. The story flows at a steady pace and holds your attention.

DEATH OF A POLICEMAN is the 29th installment in the Hamish Macbeth series. While this book can be read/listened to on its own, there are references new readers/listeners won’t completely understand. However, those references don’t impede the reading/listening of this book.

This is a murder mystery that is rich in characters and suspense.

Death of A Policeman by M.C. Beaton, A Hamish Macbeth Novel Book #29, Performed by Graeme Malcolm, Hachette Audio, @2014, ISBN: 978-1478982180, Unabridged, Digital Download

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.

Thanks so much for visiting today. Hope you’re having a relaxing Sunday. Have you read or listened to either of these series.

The Warriors by Tom Young

If you have visited here lately, you know I’m a big fan of author Tom Young and narrator Scott Brick. When those two get together for a collaboration, I know I’m in for a heart-pounding audio that will be hard to turn off.

Well, they are back together in Young’s latest release, THE WARRIORS. This is another story featuring his main characters Parson and Gold. Here are my thoughts on this latest adventure.

THE WARRIORS by Tom Young

War stories based in foreign countries are sometimes a bit hard for me to follow. Author Tom Young makes his stories, featuring Lieutenant Colonel Michael Parson and Sergeant Major Sophia Gold, easy for me to follow.

Narrator Scott Brick does an excellent job bring these various characters to life. His mannerisms adds depth to the emotions of Young’s words. Brick’s cadence will pull you in and leave you breathless as the adrenaline rush begins. His flare with various dialects enhances the story.

After seeing his share of fighting, Lieutenant Colonel Parson is looking forward to his new stint as a safety officer at the Kyrgyzstan air base. Before he can get settle in good, a C-27 crashes on the runway. During the crash investigation, Parson discovers the crew were transporting more than just electronics. Opium is found hidden inside the crates.

As the investigation digs deeper, Parson calls on his old friend, Sergeant Major Gold, to serve as an interpreter as they search for the source of the cargo. Little does he realize they are both about to be on the front lines of a possible war outbreak. As they and their colleagues race to find the source of the drug trafficking and what it’s tied to, a madman is bent on starting a new war to serve his own purpose.

Young gives his characters realistic traits and continues to develop and evolve them with each new book. He also gives readers/listeners a deep look into his ‘evil’ characters, showing why they feel so strong for their cause. He makes his characters likable and memorable. His vivid descriptions of the settings places the reader/listener in the middle of the action. His accounts of the faraway countries brings them closer with a better understanding of their people, cultures and their strives to live peaceful.

THE WARRIORS is a fast-pace adventure keeping you on the edge of your seat. While this story may not be quite as intense as some Young’s prior books, it’s still loaded with heart-stopping action. In addition, Young shows what could be a flicker of romance kindling between Parson and Gold. While this is the fourth book to feature Parson and Gold, THE WARRIORS is a standalone story.

One of the many things I enjoy about this story is knowing that Young’s own military background adds to the depth of the plot. In addition, at the end the background on how this story came to be is included.

Once again Young draws you into the realm of world problems and the struggles for peace. This is a gripping tale that will hold you captivate from beginning to end.

Author Tom Young’s website is http://tomyoungbooks.com/

The Warriors by Tom Young, A Parson/Gold Novel, Performed by Scott Brick, Recorded Books, @2013, ISBN: 978-1470363819, Unabridged, 9 Discs, Listening Time: 10.5 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.


Thanks for stopping by today. Hope you’re in for a wonderful week of reading.

The Whole Enchilada and The Renegades

Today I have two amazing audios to share with you that are complete opposites, but both outstanding in their own field.

Both authors are favorites of mine. I’ve followed the work of the first author for quite so time and always get a laugh out of her stories. The second author I began following just a few years ago and eagerly look forward to his books as the intensity holds me spellbound. First up is from the cozy mystery series by Diane Mott Davidson, followed by the adventure, adrenaline-propelled series by Tom Young.

THE WHOLE ENCHILADA by Diane Mott Davidson

All is going well for caterer Goldy Schulz as her son and his friend, Drew, celebrate with a joint birthday party, but then Drew’s mother, Holly, collapses and dies.

Narrator Barbara Rosenblat brings the characters to life in author Diane Mott Davidson’s THE WHOLE ENCHILADA, the 17th installment in her Culinary Mystery Series. Rosenblat draws listeners in as she expresses the vast array of emotions woven throughout the story. Her cadence is crisp and clear holding you spellbound until the end.

At first glance it appears Goldy’s best friend died of a heart attack. Later at Holly’s home, Goldy steps to get a note on the back deck and it collapses sending her into the frigid water below. Shaken, but not badly hurt, Goldy then learns that Holly had been poisoned and the deck sabotaged. 

Days later another caterer, one that was trying to imitate Goldy, is attacked and killed. When Goldy herself is attacked outside her home, she realizes the killer thinks she knows more than she does. Determined to find Holly’s killer, Goldy begins searching for answers

Davidson continues to develop and evolve her main characters in the Culinary Mystery Series so that returning readers/listeners get to know them better with each book. New fans are not lose as there is enough background information to keep you on track. This book can be enjoyed as a standalone. The characters are well-balanced, realistic and likable. The secondary characters always add a flare to the story. 

THE WHOLE ENCHILADA moves at a steady pace with Davidson’s protagonist mulling over the ‘whys’ and ‘who could haves’ in a pragmatic manner. There are twists and surprises along the way. In addition, Davidson includes many of the delicious recipes Goldy and her crew create throughout the story. This is a story that is sure to whet your reading appetite, as well as your taste buds.

Author Diane Mott Davidson can be found on Facebook. 

The Whole Enchilada by Diane Mott Davidson, Culinary Mystery Series #17, Performed by Barbara Rosenblat, Harper Audio, @2013, ISBN: 978-0062282774, Unabridged, 10 Discs, Listening Time: 13 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 RENEGADES by Tom Young

Listening to a book by author Tom Young stirs strong emotions. While it is a story of fiction, the author’s extensive military background gives credibility to what he writes. The pain, suffering, torture, loss of life and dedication have elements of truth to them.

Having said that and the fact that I’m not big on war-theme stories, I do highly recommend THE RENEGADES.

Narrator Scott Brick brings the story, people and setting to life. His deep throaty voice gives depth to Young’s words. Brick’s cadence is alluring as he pulls you into the middle of a battle zone and breaks your heart with the tenderness of his soothing voice when emotions involve the young and innocent victims. Then he has you on the edge of your seat as the action gets underway.

Afghan Air Force adviser Lieutenant Colonel Michael Parson and his interpreter, Sergeant Major Sophia Gold, are once again reunited following a devastating earthquake in Afghanistan. They are on hand to assist with aid and rescue efforts. However, a Taliban splinter group Black Crescent, is making life difficult for the workers. They are shooting medical works, downing helicopters, and threatening anyone who takes aid. But worst of all - they’re kidnapping young boys and making them become suicide bombers.

Parson, Gold and Parson’s Afghan aircrew scramble to provide aid, along with the other workers, in everyway they can. Discovering a way to possible locate the leader of the splinter group, Gold goes against Parson’s orders. Following her lead could stops the new group or get her killed.

THE RENEGADES is action-packed from beginning to end. It’s adrenaline-driven with so many twists, turns, highs and lows it feels like a roller coaster ride. The story flows smoothly, but quickly with moments of tenderness and concern woven throughout, as well as snippets of humor.

The characters are engaging, realistic and well-developed. Their interaction with one another is plausible. Young’s eye for authentic detail adds depth to the story and places the reader/listener in the midst of the action. The story will leave you breathless, exhausted and eager for more.

Having read/listened to THE RENEGADES (or any story by Young), you come away not only having finished a fascinating story, but learned a great deal about American servicemen and women, the trials they face overseas and their dedication. Young entertains with his words, but also educates and informs.

This is the third book featuring Parson and Gold, but can be enjoyed as a standalone. But be warned, after an introduction to Parson and Gold you’ll want to know more.

Author Tom Young’s website is http://tomyoungbooks.com/
 
The Renegades by Tom Young, A Parson/Gold Novel, Performed by Scott Brick, Recorded Books, @2012, ASIN: B008MTA4AW, Unabridged, 11 Discs, Listening Time: 11 Hours and 9 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. 

Thanks so much for joining me today. Do you like changing your reading (or listening) around from cozy to adventure to something else and back again? Or do you prefer to read only one type of book?