Fans of author Fern Michaels’ Sisterhood series will want to check out UPSIDE DOWN, the first installment in her new Men of the Sisterhood series.
This fun story features the men of Pinewood launching their own secretive operation to serve justice. However, don’t expect a complete story as this is only the introduction to the characters and their plans for future adventures.
Narrator Laural Merlington does a great job bringing the various characters to life. Her mannerisms and pace adds depth to the story and enhances the characters. She gives distinct voices to each.
The men of the ‘Sisters’ have begun their own business called BOLO Consultants. The first case they are looking at involves Tyler Sanford, a ruthless slum lord and lieutenant governor.
This is a short audio that gives the basic step up for the Brotherhoods’ operation. It sets the group on their first mission, but doesn’t follow through to its conclusion leaving it open for the next installment.
The author has crafted fun and likable characters. She brings the normally secondary characters into the forefront giving them their own limelight.
UPSIDE DOWN is an entertaining beginning to a new series featuring familiar characters. Listeners/readers can enjoy this story on its own, but a knowledge of the Sisterhood series will enhance the storyline. The author gives just enough to entice you to come back for more.
Upside Down by Fern Michaels, The Men of the Sisterhood Book #1, Narrated by Laural Merlington, Brilliance Audio, @2015, ISBN: 978-1501224331, Unabridged, MP3 CD, Run Time: 3 Hours 7 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 appreciate you stopping by today. Is Spring showing its face where you live or is Old Man Winter still hanging on? Are you a fan of the Sisterhood series?
*This post contains affiliate links.
The ladies of Pinewood are once again righting wrongs and the guys are backing them up in author Fern Michaels’ latest Sisterhood Series installment, EYES ONLY.
Narrator Laural Merlington does her usual brilliant job of bringing all the characters to life. Her varying vocalizations makes it sound as if each character has their own separate narrator. Her inflections are spot on adding depth to the delightful story.
This time around the entire team, with the exception of Charles, is on tap to help Annie and Myra with their latest mission. A ruthless, wealthy man – Angus Sypder – is determined to take control of his young, twin grandchildren even though they were legally adopted from his daughter. He will stop at nothing to have what he wants no matter the cost in money or lives.
As the plan begins to take form, the group is lead to believe an old adversary that escaped from them years earlier may be head security for Sypder. Once they arrive on Sypder’s exclusive island, the group also become convinced that Charles and Fergus are being held prisoner there.
The group works their magic to make the impossible, possible and to make sure Sypder’s reign of terror comes to an end. But not all their plans work as hoped.
Michaels has crafted a unique group of characters for this series. They are funny, feisty and loyal to those they care about. The story flows quickly and is easy to follow. The excitement builds as the mission plays out.
EYES ONLY is the 24th installment in the Sisterhood series, but can be read/listeners to on its own. While new readers/listeners won’t be left in the dark, they won’t be able to completely appreciate the group’s actions without the background of the other missions. This is one series that should be read/listened to in order to get the best benefits.
Myra, Annie and the gang once again stand for justice and family. This is a fun and entertaining story.
Eyes Only by Fern Michaels, Sisterhood Series Book #24, Narrated by Laural Merlington, Brilliance Audio, @2014, ISBN: 978-1491536551, Unabridged, 7 Discs, Run Time: 8 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. Hope you’re having a great Friday and a wonderful weekend to come. What books are on tap for you to read or listen to this weekend?
*This post contains affiliate links.
I have two awesome books to share with you today. Hope you enjoy.
Many find blogging a great way to relax and connect with others resulting in happy experiences. Author Wendy Corsi Staub takes blogging to a darker level in her latest release, THE PERFECT STRANGER, the second installment in her Cyber Predator series.
Narrator Allyson Ryan does a superb job giving each character their own unique voice. Her mannerisms enhances the emotions of the characters and adds depth to the story. Her cadence heightens the suspense of the story.
A group of women come together online to encourage and support each other in their fight against cancer. They find solace, sharing things about themselves they can’t share with people in their lives. Several of the women draw closer, forming their own little online group.
When one of the bloggers is killed, an apparent victim of a burglary, the others decide to meet for her funeral. It’s the first time Landry, Elena and Kay have seen each other in person. They had hoped that Jaycee would join them, but she doesn’t. Having never seen a photo of Jaycee, the trio doesn’t know she’s also at the funeral but not speaking to anyone.
The trio discusses Meredith’s death and they secretly begin to wonder if the killer could be one of them. As paranoia sets in, the author increases the suspense making it plausible anyone of the group could be the killer. Add to that Jaycee’s mysterious actions and shocking background, the suspect list grows. In addition, Meredith’s daughter begins to suspect her father’s recent actions.
The story moves at a good pace with adrenaline fueled moments and unexpected twists. The characters are realistic. The author has done her research in relating the mixed bag of emotions the characters express dealing with cancer. The author also points out the highs and lows of giving out too much personal data online.
THE PERFECT STRANGER is a suspenseful novel dealing with problems readers/listeners can relate to and highlights complications an online presence can create, if one is not careful. This story will have you re-evaluating just how much information you share online.
The Perfect Stranger by Wendy Corsi Staub, Cyber Predator Series Book #2, Performed by Allyson Ryan, HarperAudio, @2014, ASIN: BOOK8EWRWM, Unabridged, Digital Download, Listening Time: 11 Hours and 19 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.
The Perfect Stranger by Wendy Corsi Staub, Cyber Predator Series Book #2, Harper, @2014, ISBN: 978-0062222404, Mass Market Paperback, 416 Pages
FTC Full Disclosure – A copy of this book was sent to me as part of the author’s virtual book tour 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 had the good fortunate to begin reading this book in paperback and then finishing it by listening to the audio version. It was nice enjoying the book in both formats and I would recommend both.
When a book series has a long run life, you know there will have to be changes to keep the storyline fresh.
Author Fern Michaels has done that in her Sisterhood series. Her latest release, KISS AND TELL, is a product of those changes. This continues to be a fun series, but missing some of the delightful characters from the earlier installments. With this book, Michaels brings a few of those characters back briefly.
Narrator Laural Merlington does an excellent job giving distinct voices to these characters – young and old, male and female. The modulation of her voice puts the right spin on the characters’ emotions. She captures the idiosyncrasy of each character in such a manner to enhance the story.
A number of anonymous emails suggesting shady deals leads Myra Rutledge and Annie de Silva to snoop around a wealthy assisted-living facility. They discover the dealings involve an investment broker who is running a Ponzi scheme. With the help of a few of the old gang, the ladies once again right the wrongs.
During their mission to bring the investor down, Myra encounters her own heart break at home. While the problem wasn’t solved, there was a hint of more to be resolved concerning the matter. In addition, the author gives a lead way into a new series featuring the men of the Sisterhood. Between the Sisterhood and the Brotherhood, the bad guys don’t stand a chance.
KISS AND TELL is the 23rd installment in the Sisterhood series and can be read/listened to on its own. However, I would recommend reading/listening to the series in order to get the full pleasure of the characters as they grow and develop. This is another delightful story of a wrong being righted, just miss all the sisters being involved.
Kiss and Tell by Fern Michaels, Sisterhood Series Book #23, Performed by Laural Merlington, Brilliance Audio, @2014, ISBN: 978-1480566323, Unabridged, 8 Discs, Listening Time: 9 Hours and 28 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.
Thanks so much for stopping by today. I hope I’ve enticed you to check out these two books further. Both are available in book and audio formats. May your Sunday be a day of joy and resting (with a good book handy, of course). Have you listened to any audio books lately? What book are you currently enjoying or what book do you plan to read next?
*This post contains affiliate links.
Can you believe we’ve come to the final Sunday Salon of March?
I don’t know about where you are, but for me the weather isn’t feeling much like spring yet. I keep hoping the sun will come out and the temperature will go up at least a few degrees.
This week for Sunday Salon I have an interesting paranormal romance to share with you and a fun women’s fiction audio. One of the things I enjoy about author Terry Spear’s paranormal books is that she makes them so realistic and she always has an intriguing plot to keep you guessing. I enjoy author Fern Michaels women’s fiction series for the well-blended characters and crazy antics she combines.
Top off that latest cup of coffee, find a comfortable chair, prop your feet up and relax. It’s time to discuss the books we’ve read or listened to lately.
Anyone who skips over author Terry Spear’s Heart of the Wolf series because it’s listed as a paranormal romance is missing out on stories packed with depth and intrigue, fascinating characters, stirring surroundings, and heartwarming relationships.
In the latest installment in the series, SILENCE OF THE WOLF, Spear tackles issues of sibling rivalry, family outcast, and finding acceptance. She shows how some families pull together giving love and support, while others turn on each other thinking only of themselves.
Since the death of her parents, Elizabeth Wildwood has been on her own. Her half-brother and uncle want nothing to do with her because of her ‘mixed’ half-wolf, half-coyote blood. She is willing to risk everything, including her life, to get the evidence of who killed her parents.
Elizabeth ventures into gray wolf territory for the evidence and to write an article on the Silver Town Ski Resort. She finds the town is wolf-run by the Silver brothers and their pack. Her encounter with sub-leader Tom Silver is life changing.
The last thing Tom Silver is interested in is finding a mate and settling down like his brothers. When he has to escort Elizabeth to the slopes for her article, he discovers her scent and memory linger with him long after she’s gone.
When it appears Elizabeth’s life is in danger, Tom and his family are there to protect and help her. It’s a strange new concept for Elizabeth to have someone in her corner. She has to discover who killed her parents and if she can trust someone loves her for who she really is.
The story is heartwarming and funny. It’s filled with suspense and steamy romance. It’s a mesmerizing story of love, family and friendship that will have you believing in wolf shifters. The characters are likable and realistic. The story moves at a quick pace and is hard to put down. Spear has incorporated her vast research of wolves into this tantalizing tale. Her rich descriptions of the setting brings the town to life.
SILENCE OF THE WOLF is the 13th installment in the Heart of the Wolf series, but can be read on its own. New readers to the series won’t be left in the dark and returning fans will be able to catch up with old friends from past installments.
The romance is sizzling, the characters charismatic, and the plot suspenseful for an entertaining, heart-pounding, page turner that will hold you captive until the very end.
Silence of the Wolf by Terry Spear, Heart of the Wolf Book #13, Sourcebooks Casablanca, @2014, ISBN: 978-1402266898, Paperback, 352 Pages
FTC Full Disclosure - 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.
Laughter, excitement, suspense, a bit of danger and a lot of revenge run amuck when the ladies gather at Pinewood.
The ladies of author Fern Michaels’ Sisterhood series aren’t ones to fade quietly into the background. Though it has been awhile since the ladies were called upon to dispense their own brand of justice, they are always ready for a new challenge.
Narrator Laural Merlington does an excellent job bringing the characters to life. Her distinct mannerisms and vocalizations have you believing there’s more than one narrator. She does a great job of switching not only genders, but vast age differences. Merlington adds enjoyable dimensions to the characters and enhances the author’s story.
This go-around only the older members of the Sisterhood are called into action at the request of Maggie Spritzer, an honorary member of the Sisterhood and former editor-in-chief of The Post. Maggie senses something is not right with two Maryland judges. She believes the judges, identical twins Celeste and Eunice Ciprani, have a moneymaking racket going on by sending youthful offenders to ruthless boot camps on charges that deserve far lesser sentences.
Powerful and merciless, the Ciprani twins run their town with an iron fist. Taking them down won’t be easy, but then the Sisterhood has never backed away from a challenge. Maggie, Myra, Annie and the gang come up with a plan that brings justice to the innocent and deals severely with the very guilty judges.
Once again Michaels has crafted a story of suspense, intrigue and laughter. The main characters are well-developed and likable, while the villains possess all the traits you hate for a well-balanced group. The story flows smoothly and quickly with a few surprises along the way and a good blend of humor woven throughout.
The steadfast band of friends once again continue their renowned brand of dispensing justice for an entertaining and spellbinding story.
BLINDSIDED is the 22nd installment in the Sisterhood series. It can be read/listened to on its own. However, to get a better grasp of the Sisterhood and their actions, a few earlier installments in the series should be read/listened to.
This story will have you laughing, holding your breath and cheering for the underdog. Can’t wait to see what happens next with the Sisterhood.
Blindsided by Fern Michaels, Sisterhood Series Book #22, Performed by Laural Merlington, Brilliance Audio, @2014, ISBN: 978-1480566156, Unabridged, 8 Discs, Listening Time: 10 Hours
FTC Full Disclosure - 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.
Thanks so much for stopping by today. I do appreciate you each and every time you drop by. Hope you’re having a wonderful Sunday and find time to enjoy a book. What’s on your nightstand to read this week?
As we begin a new month, I’m sharing my review of the latest installment in a fun series I’ve enjoyed for quick some time. In addition, I want to tell you about a new movie (based on a book) opening in theatres this week and an awesome giveaway I have to offer you thanks to the kind folks at PartnersHub Family.
Keeping a child from their grandmother can be a very bad thing, especially in the eyes of the Sisterhood.
Narrator Laurel Merlington does a superb job bringing the wonderful characters of author Fern Michaels’s Sisterhood Series to life in GOTCHA! Merlington’s cadence holds you spellbound throughout the story. Her vocalizations have you believing there’s more than one narrator. Her utterance gives great depth to the emotions of the story.
This time around Julie Wyatt has contacted the Sisterhood for help in getting her granddaughter, Olivia, away from Darlene, her former daughter-in-law and Olivia’s adopted mother. Julie also believes Darlene had something to do with her son Larry’s mysterious death.
Myra Rutledge, the original founder of the Sisterhood, and her best friend (and fellow Sister) Annie DeSilva are determined to extract justice for Julie. The ladies take off for Alabama and put their plan into action.
As the story unfolds, Julie is also dealing with a temporary tenant in her guest house that has problems of his own. Little does Julie realize how her world will be impacted by her kindness toward the man.
Michaels’s characters are well-developed and likable, while she always has a few you can’t stand. They story flows smoothly and at a steady pace. She combines heart-wrenching moments with bouts of laughter for a well-blended tale.
GOTCHA! is the 21st installment in the Sisterhood Series, but can be enjoyed as a stand alone. However, to get the full enjoyment of this book, the series should be read or listened to in order. The characters have grown and evolved with each new installment, as has their interaction with one another.
Michaels once again proves it doesn’t pay to mess with motherhood (or the Sisterhood).
Author Fern Michaels’ website is www.fernmichaels.com
Gotcha! by Fern Michaels, Sisterhood Series Book #21, Performed by Laurel Merlington, Brilliance Audio, @2013, ISBN: 978-1455812608, Unabridged, 8 Discs, Listening Time: 8.7 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 ULTIMATE LIFE (the sequel to The Ultimate Gift) opens in theatres on Friday, September 6. This inspiring movie reminds us some things are worth more than money.
THE ULTIMATE LIFE……
Between the pressure of running a foundation started by his late grandfather, being sued by his greedy extended family, and seeing his beloved Alexia leave on an extended mission trip to Haiti, Jason Stevens' world is unraveling.
But when Jason discovers a journal that his grandfather began as a Depression-era lad, his writings transport Jason on an incredible rags-to-riches ride.
With everything he loves hanging in the balance, Jason hopes he can discover THE ULTIMATE LIFE.
Using The Ultimate Life Blog App (below) take the quiz to find out if YOU are living life to the fullest! Read six great ways to start living the ultimate life NOW, as written by Jim Stovall, author of THE ULTIMATE LIFE book. And watch the official trailer for this inspiring movie!
In celebration of this upcoming movie release, the good folks at PartnersHub is offering an Official Ultimate Life Prize Pack to one lucky reader! The prize pack contains:
* DVD of The Ultimate Gift
* THE ULTIMATE GIFT book by Jim Stovall
* The Ultimate Gift charm bracelet
* The Ultimate Life leather-bound journal
The giveaway is open to residents of the U.S. and Canada only and no post office box addresses can be accepted. More details at the end of the post.
Do you take time to think about your life’s goals and if you’re living the ultimate life? Check out The Ultimate Life Blog App and see where you stand.
Do YOU Live Life to the Fullest? QUIZ ….. Some things are worth more than money. Take the quiz to see if you are truly living your life, or merely spending it!
6 Ways to Live The Ultimate Life PDF….. Read Jim Stovall’s (author of The Ultimate Life book upon which the movie is based) insightful ways to live better!
GIVEAWAY DETAILS:
To enter this giveaway, please send me an e-mail (mcbookshelf@gmail.com) with the subject line, “Win The Ultimate Life Pack.” Your message should include your name and mailing address. The contest is open to residents of the U.S. and Canada only and no post office box addresses can be accepted. The deadline to enter this giveaway for a chance to win the Official Ultimate Life Prize Pack is 8 p.m. (EDT) on Thursday, Sept. 5.
FTC Full Disclosure - I am working with The Ultimate Life in making this announcement. The Ultimate Life, through PartnersHub Family, is supplying this Official Ultimate Life Prize Pack as a promotional giveaway. I am hosting the giveaway without compensation solely for the purpose of providing visitors to my blog the opportunity to win this awesome prize pack.
Thanks for stopping by today. Are you a fan of the Sisterhood Series? Do you have your own insightful ways to live a better life that you’d like to share with us?