Saving Gracie {+ Giveaways}

Audio books are a great way to ‘read’ when you’re busy doing something else. With that in mind today’s post is the first installment of three that I’ll be featuring this month in which I talk with two authors who have audio books and the narrator who gives voice to their books.

It’s my pleasure to welcome author Terry Lee-Rosing to Thoughts today. Terry’s here to talk about her writing and audio books. In addition, Terry is offering several great giveaways to some visitors. Please see the end of the post for more giveaway details.

First, here’s a brief description of two of Terry’s books and then Terry will visit.

SAVING GRACIE 

        Kathryn Broussard has managed her life with dignity and an I-know-you-have-feelings-but-I’m-coming-through-anyway attitude. She exudes confidence and control over the land much as a queen rules her court. Her main focus-Grace, her daughter. Although grown, Grace depends on her mother’s razor sharp decision-making ability for everything. All is well in the land of dysfunctional mother-daughterhood until the unthinkable happens. Kathryn dies.
        With her mother now gone, Grace is forced to manage her own life for the first time. And Kathryn must find a way to maintain control of her daughter, even though unusual circumstances from the “Other Side” present a fair share of obstacles to overcome.
        Saving Gracie is a story about a relationship, while strained in life, found a way to blossom in death.

PARTLY SUNNY

        Houston, a fast-paced city filled with Midtown lofts and to-die-for shopping malls is where Darcy Daniels calls home. At first glance she comes off as shallow as a wading pool and as wrong in how she pursues the ideal life as offering a can of Budweiser at a Junior League event. The need to portray success clouds her head with every desire from the perfect pair of shoes to the outfit that might catch the eye of Mr. Right. Fashion magazines and celebrity television have created a distorted bubble which hovers overhead, skewing her vision of a meaningful existence.
        No one knows her self-esteem is as low as her opinion of the clothing she snubs at discount stores. She’s someone she's not. And she knows it. When she unravels the string holding together her shabby-chic faux existence, what will she find? Her key to happiness glistening like a crown jewel in a display case? Or a handful of diamonds in the rough rejects lacking the designer seal of approval.

Welcome, Terry. Tell us how you came to be an author and your books.

I’m not one of those who can say “I’ve been writing all my life” or even “I knew one day I’d write a book.” Actually, writing, with the exception of journaling, was not even a blip on my radar. I’ve been an executive secretary, worked as an accountant, became a licensed substance abuse counselor (LCDC) in the state of Texas in 1994, and a licensed massage therapist (LMT) in 2000.

The beginnings of SAVING GRACIE has three layers. The first began when my mom died on Easter Sunday, 1987. Being the mother of a 10 and 15 year old, I was in no way prepared to face motherhood without having my mom as my “touch stone.” I was 35 at that time and literally felt a part of me died with her. After a decent grieving period life moved on, as it should. Through the years, though, I had the distinct feeling Mom wasn’t that far away. I’d hear one of her favorite songs or find a sand dollar on the beach, just to name a few examples, and I would swear I could feel her beside me.
 
The second layer came when I went through training with Houston Hospice to become a volunteer in 2004 (what a phenomenal/humbling experience). On the suggested reading list was a book, Final Gifts, written by two hospice nurses, which I highly recommend. Having the privilege of sitting with those nearing the end of their journey here on Earth, I experienced what Final Gifts explains as “nearing death awareness.” As the near-death person/soul prepares to depart, the person has the ability to communicate with those on the other side waiting. The book explains this phenomenon as having one foot here in the present, while the other foot has crossed/stepped over. Although debunked by many, this resonated with me. 

The final “ah-ha” layer happened one day when I watched a rerun of the movie Always with Richard Dreyfuss and Holly Hunter (not the original, by the way…a remake of A Guy Named Joe with Spencer Tracy, Irene Dunne and Van Johnson, 1943). Then I started thinking of the movies I’m drawn to…Chancer Are, Heart and Souls, Ghost, Heaven Can Wait, Defending Your Life, Kiss Her Goodbye, The Ghost and Mrs. Muir…I’ll stop here, but I’m sure you get the picture. A life ends and immediately picks up after “death” on the other side.

Hmmmm…so, if I feel my mom is so close verses far, far away, I began to wonder what her life was like. Does she get to choose what she wears? Is there a Starbucks? Can she still have her one glass of wine at 5:00 every day? Are umbrellas necessary? 

And so, SAVING GRACIE was born. Due to the nature of the story, I tried very hard to write the book not from a religious or non-religious viewpoint, but a story about what her life might be. As a funny side-note, I have to mention my grown nephew who was probably around 7 years old when my mom, his grandma died, questioned as to whether Grandma Bettye was really like Kathryn. “Absolutely not,” I reassured him (with the exception of a few mentions in the dedication). 

Creating Kathryn Broussard in my mom’s image would have been a book many would have not found entertaining. Being sweet, passive, kind, offering unconditional love, are not characteristics I could use to create any sort of conflict. And I learned there has to be conflict. So Kathryn, the mother of the story, SAVING GRACIE, I believe created the term “helicopter mom” with more than a touch of control issues. 

I love to write about relationships with humor, but my stories also have to have depth/heart. As Truvy (Dolly Pardon) says in Steel Magnolias – “Laughter through tears is my favorite emotion…”

Having SAVING GRACIE brought to life through a narrator was quite an experience. My publisher at the time informed me she had someone who wanted to audition for narrating SAVING GRACIE. Wow! “What do I do now, I asked?” She said I’d be sent the first chapter as a sample. 

Another side note: I can’t speak for other authors, but I’ve been hearing the voices of the characters in my head for years and knew how I thought they should sound.

After listening to the first audition about 50 times, I felt disappointed, depleted and sad for the potential narrator because I just couldn’t give it a thumbs up. I started to realize how unrealistic for me to get hung up on the sound of the words flowing from my head, into the book and on to the narrator.

Shortly, I received another audition tape. This one was Michelle Babb. With a different mindset and listening to her narration of chapter one only a few times, I knew she could do the job. We had an excellent working relationship. I sent her my storyboard of who I saw as the characters (which were all movie stars…ensemble cast:). We had plenty of conversations about different aspects of the narrating. 

I was absolutely thrilled to hear how Michelle portrayed two particular characters with distinct accents. Being from up north (I’m a native Houstonian) was definitely a plus for Michelle to narrate Ruby. I saw Ruby as a Rosie O’Donnell, kind of like she sounded in A League of Our Own. Then there was Maggie who had a British accent (and who I saw as a Maggie Smith). Michelle nailed it with these two! I proofed the entire audio book and we had a go!
 
Terry, thanks so much for visiting with us today and sharing how SAVING GRACIE came to be. I like how you combined the three stages for such an intriguing story.

Now let me tell you a bit more about Terry.

As a native Houstonian, a rarity these days, Terry holds two licensures in the state of Texas: one in chemical dependency counseling, the other in massage therapy. In 2004, she trained to be a volunteer for Houston Hospice, a life-changing training session she believes would benefit all. -“Hospice, contrary to popular belief, is not about dying but about helping people live until they die.”

Although writing has been part of her genetic lineage, the writing bug didn’t officially bite until 2007. From then on, her passion sprouted and came into full bloom. She is an observer by nature… “ask any close friend or family member. I’ve studied movie characters and dialogues for years, which can often become annoying to said above friends and family…I can almost see the bobble-head nods of agreement…”

Her intent is to deliver stories with wisdom, warmth, a medley of emotions and always a touch of humor, which she often finds to be the elixir of life. “When I write, I pull from what I know—real people, real life and all the obstacles in between.”

Terry is proof it is never too late to reinvent yourself or pursue a dream. Her first novel, Saving Gracie, was published in 2012, the year she turned sixty years old. Her second novel, Partly Sunny was released in September 2013. Time Trials is scheduled for an early spring 2015 release.

Terry said, “I’ve always said I’m a late bloomer…”

For more on Terry and her writing, visit her website and blog, and connect with her on Facebook, and Twitter.

GIVEAWAY DETAILS:

This giveaway is for two separate gifts – a signed copy of SAVING GRACIE and an audio version of SAVING GRACIE. The giveaway will run for 10 days.

To enter, just click on the Rafflecopter widget below and follow the instructions. It may take the widget a few seconds to load, so please be patient.

Thanks so much for stopping by today during Terry’s visit. Have you ever had moments when you felt the presence of someone you had lost? Which format would you like to win – print or audio?

*This post contains affiliate links. a Rafflecopter giveaway

Sunday Salon: Golden Age Collection

Photo Source: morgueFile

Sunday Salon brings visions of a quiet day relaxing, curled up with a cup of hot coffee and a good book taking a break from the busy day-to-day activities.

As we know, books come in all shapes, sizes, colors and formats nowadays. I still enjoy the feel of a book in my hands, turning the pages eager to find what awaits on the next page. But, as many of you know, I also enjoy audio books. 

Listening to an audio book allows me the pleasure of ‘reading’ a book while I do things that must be done - driving, cooking, cleaning, etc. It’s kind of like being a kid again and having someone read you a bedtime story without you having to go to sleep. 

Audio books also remind me of what it might have been like before TV when families gathered around the radio to listen to the latest airing of their favorite program. The action played out in their minds, not on the screen in front of them.

I recently came across a wonderful new collection of audio books that can transport listeners back to that golden era of radio with a taste of pulp fiction. The leading source of entertainment in the 1930s and 1940s was pulp fiction, thousands of short stories that have influenced today’s writers in so many ways.

Galaxy Press has assembled the largest collection of these stories from the most prolific writer of the pulp fiction era, L. Ron Hubbard. The collection, “Stories from the Golden Age,” includes over 150 audio books spanning virtually every genre including sci-fi, fantasy, western, mystery, adventure and more.

The audios run an average of two hours each and are performed by an all-star Hollywood cast. Each audios also features music and sound effects placing the listener in the middle of the action with the characters. The audio covers are vibrant and rich in nostalgic history depicting an era long gone.

Among the Mystery collection is DEAD MEN KILL, which was originally published in the July 1934 issue of Thrilling Detective.

DEAD MEN KILL by L. Ron Hubbard

Detective Terry Lane has his hands full when several of the city’s most respected citizens are killed. To make matters worse, it appears they were killed by zombies. Lane has few leads to follows and almost no evidence except the blue-gray glove from an undertaker.

A beautiful nightclub singer comes forward to help in the investigation. Lane, however, isn’t sure if she’s on the up-and-up. When he checks out her lead, he finds himself sealed in a coffin. Will he become a zombie as well?

The cast of characters do an excellent job bringing the action to life. The sound effects add another layer to the story making it all seem so real listeners are lost into the fantasy world of crocks and zombies for a time. The story is action-packed and moves at a steady pace keeping you guessing till the end. 

Dead Men Kill by L. Ron Hubbard, A Multicast Performance, Galaxy Press, @2012, ISBN: 978-1592123506, Unabridged, 2 Discs, Listening Time: 2 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.

Here are brief descriptions of several other audios in this amazing collection.

Among the Sea Adventure collection is FALSE CARGO, which was originally published in the May 1935 issue of Five Novels.

Hired by Lloyd’s insurance company to ensure the safe voyage of the vessel Barclay from Hawaii to San Diego, skipper Brent Calloway finds himself caught in an illegal scheme to scuttle the ship in order to collect money. At the center of the plot is none other than Spike O’Brien, known throughout the Pacific as a ruthless killer.

Compounding Calloway’s troubles on deck, he sees that O’Brien also has lecherous claws for Dorothy, a passenger and the sister of one of Brent’s best friends. When the Barclay heads for the rocks and threatens to run aground, Brent makes a discovery which turns everything upside down.
This audio also includes the adventure story, GROUNDED.

False Cargo by L. Ron Hubbard, A Multicast Performance, Galaxy Press, @2012, ISBN: 978-1592122809, Unabridged, 2 Discs, Listening Time: 2 Hours

Among the Tales from the Orient collection is SPY KILLER, which was originally published in the April 1936 issue of Five-Novels Monthly.

Kurt Reid may be innocent of the murder he’s charged with (and of grand larceny, for that matter), but he’s got no time to be thrown in jail and defend himself. Instead, Reid flees to pre-Communist China and Shanghai, the exotic city of mystery and death.

Reid takes refuge in a tea house where he meets White Russian Varinka Savischna, whom he manages to rescue from certain death. As beautiful as she is smart, she recruits him in her crusade against Chinese intelligence services. Unfortunately, Reid manages to get himself captured by the Chinese and blackmailed into pursuing and assassinating a Japanese spy. Now Reid must enter the cloak-and-dagger world of espionage and intrigue, where everything and everyone is not who or what they appear to be.

Spy Killer by L. Ron Hubbard, A Multicast Performance, Galaxy Press, @2012, ISBN: 978-1592121663, Unabridged, 2 Discs, Listening Time: 2 Hours

Among the Mystery collection is THE CARNIVAL OF DEATH, which was originally published in the July 1934 issue of Popular Detective.

Working deep undercover to break up a purported drug ring operating at Shreve’s Mammoth Carnival, US narcotics agent Bob Clark discovers first one and then another headless body.

Others believe the gruesome murders are solved after four tribal headhunters working for the show suddenly disappear, but Clark suspects someone else is the real killer. When he finds himself seized by the very same headhunters, Clark sincerely hopes his hunch is right, since the point of a very sharp knife is aimed at his neck.
This audio also includes the mystery story, THE DEATH FLYER.

The Carnival of Death by L. Ron Hubbard, A Multicast Performance, Galaxy Press, @2012, ISBN: 978-1592122684, Unabridged, 2 Discs, Listening Time: 2 Hours

Do you enjoy listening or reading stories from the ‘Golden Era’ of the 30's and 40's? Thanks so much for stopping by today. Have a wonderful Sunday.

CATCH ME by Lisa Gardner

Solving murders and catching bad guys is what Boston’s top detective D.D. Warren does. But how do you solve a murder that hasn’t been committed yet and catch a killer that may not exit?

Author Lisa Gardner has created an intriguing plot in her latest release, CATCH ME. The victim, Charlene Rosalind Carter Grant, knows she will be murdered in 4 days and she wants Warren to work the crime scene and find her killer.

Grant explains that her 2 best friends from a small town in New Hampshire have been murdered. They were both killed at 8 p.m. on Jan. 21st a year apart. It will be Grant’s turn in 4 days.

Not knowing if Grant is the next victim or the real killer, Warren begins checking into the unsolved prior deaths. Meanwhile, she’s also trying to track down a vigilante gunman who is targeting pedophiles.

Kirsten Potter does a fantastic job narrating this tale of murder and mayhem. She provides great emotions to the characters at the appropriate time to pull listeners in deeper to the story. She gives each character their own unique voice making it seem more than one person is narrating. Her cadence is smooth and calming when Warren talks to Jack and menacing when the killer speaks.

The action is fast-pace, the suspense is high, and the storyline is captivating. Tension builds as the Jan. 21st deadline approaches. Twists and turns along the way will keep you guessing until the surprise ending.

Gardner weaves a tale of intrigue and murder, while showing a gentler side of her characters. Charlene Rosalind Carter Grant is a character as complex as her name is long. 

This is the 6th book in the Detective D.D. Warren series, but is a stand alone read. There is also a eNovella in the series. CATCH ME is a thrill a minute causing readers to want to know more about D.D Warren and those surrounding her.

Author Lisa Gardner’s website is www.lisagardner.com

Catch Me by Lisa Gardner, A D.D. Warren Novel, Performed by Kirsten Potter, Brilliance Audio, @2012, ISBN: 978-1455847150, Unabridged, 11 Discs, Listening Time 13 Hours, 15 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.

 

Have you listened to any audio books lately? I really appreciate you stopping by. Hope everyone has a great Saturday.

Sunday Salon: A Trip Down Memory Lane

Another week has gone by and we’re gathering once again for Sunday Salon to share our thoughts on the books we’ve read.

The temperatures in many parts of the U.S. (and world) are getting colder keeping us indoors and giving way to hopefully more time to read. Fill your favorite cup to the brim with the steaming beverage of your choice and get comfortable. Let’s share our thoughts on what we’ve read and/or listen to this week.

I only have one review to share as life has been a bit hectic this past week caring for the in-laws. Today’s review, however, was a trip down memory lane for me. Listening to this audio was a fun reminder of my youth and I hope it will spark some memories for you too.

THE DARK SHADOWS COMPANION

Visiting a classic’s 25th anniversary collection 20 years later may seem a bit strange but when that classic is the timeless melodrama Dark Shadows, time has little meaning.

Pomegranate Press recently released the audio version of THE DARK SHADOWS COMPANION, a look back at the original television series on its 25th anniversary in 1991. The audio is read by four of the original case members: Jonathan Frid, Lara Parker, Roger Davis, and Kathryn Leigh Scott.

This is not a story from the Dark Shadows show, but THE story of how the 1960s cult series came to be. Listeners are taken back to when producer Dan Curtis first dreamed of a dark-haired girl and how that evolved into the wonderful and intriguing show.

Members of the cast share some of their personal memories, as well as recall moments of humor and dedication from the set. THE COMPANION gives a behind-the-scenes look at how the afternoon soap opera was brought to the screen each day. In addition, fans will learn how the actors and actresses that played their beloved characters came to have those parts.

The reading by Frid (vampire Barnabas Collins), Parker (Angelique the witch), David (Peter Bradford), and Scott (Barnabas’ lost-love Josette/Maggie Evans) adds a wonderful depth to the audio. Hearing their voices will conjure visions from the past for fans of the classic soap.

THE COMPANION gives a lot of history about the show, the characters, the two movie spin-offs, and why the actors played so many different characters. It looks at the fun and friendship the cast enjoyed, as well as the long hours of dedicated work they put in to make the show a hit.

For anyone who ever ran home after school to watch this intriguing and mysterious soap, THE DARK SHADOWS COMPANION is a must have (audio and book form). You might be surprised to learn who was watching the show and where Barnabas was invited.

Take a trip back to Collinswood, visit with the original cast members, and relive a part of your youth. Dark Shadows fans have known vampires were cool way before Twilight was ever a flicker.

The Dark Shadows Companion; Read by Jonathan Frid, Lara Parker, Roger Davis, and Kathryn Leigh Scott; Pmegranate Press, @2011, ISBN: 9780938817840, Abridged, 3 Discs, Listening Time: 3 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.

Are you a fan of the original Dark Shadows show? Did you have a favorite character? What was on your reading list this week? Hope everyone has a great Sunday and thanks so much for stopping by. 

A Bride And An Inn

 

I have a couple of wonderful books to share with you today. While one of the books has been out for awhile, it’s just now coming out as an audio book. I’m still encouraging you to give a listen to audio books, if you don’t already. It’s a great way to ‘read’ while you’re busy doing other things.

KEEPER OF THE BRIDE by Tess Gerritsen

Nina Cormier was looking forward to getting married. She never imaged her life would be in danger when she was left at the altar on her wedding day.

Not long after Nina leaves the church, it explodes. Detective Sam Navarro with the bomb squad is called in to investigate. The sparks between Nina and Sam are electrifying as both try to deny it.

As the investigation continues, someone tries to run Nina off the road making it apparent she is a target. Nina and Sam try to uncover who or what she knows that is endangering her life and how it’s connected to a recent warehouse bombing.

Nina’s dysfunctional family is little help, but add another layer to the story. Her ex-fiancé is prime suspect until he becomes a target too.

Author Tess Gerritsen does a wonderful job keeping you guessing. She adds enough twists and turns to heighten the suspense and intrigue, while fanning the flames of desire between Sam and Nina. There’s plenty of action too.

The narration by Montana Chase brings these characters to life giving them great depth. Her mannerisms will have you feeling all the emotions these characters encounter. Her interruption flows smoothly from one character to the next, giving each one their own unique voice.

KEEPER OF THE BRIDE is filled with suspense, action, and moments of tenderness and passion. There’s just the right combination to keep you on the edge of your seat until the climactic end.

Author Tess Gerritsen’s website is www.tessgerritsen.com

Keeper Of The Bride by Tess Gerritsen, Read by Montana Chase, Brilliance Audio, @2011, ISBN: 978-1441875952, Unabridged, 7 Discs, Listening Time: 8 Hours 38 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 NEXT ALWAYS by Nora Roberts

I was thrilled when I saw that author Nora Roberts had a new trilogy out. I’ve read and listened to a number of her trilogies and always find they are centered around strong bonds of family, friendship, loyalty, and hope. The family core (whether blood or otherwise) plays an essential element in these trilogies and I find that a wonderful feature.

THE NEXT ALWAYS, the first book in the Inn Boonsboro Trilogy, has this family-related core. In fact, there are multiple units in the story that come together as one including the close-knit atmosphere of a small town.

Clare Murphy Brewster returns to Boonsboro (Maryland) to raise her 3 young boys near her parents after her husband is killed in service. Clare is busy caring for her boys and operating her bookstore, Turn The Page. She barely has time for herself much less a love life.

Meanwhile, the Montgomery brothers - Beckett, Ryder and Owen - are renovating a historical inn on Main Street across from Clare’s store. The brothers have the help of their fun-loving, eccentric mother, Justine, to restore the inn to its original grandeur.

Beckett has carried a torch for Clare since they were teenagers. He has given her time and space since her return. The renovation gives him an excuse to get reacquainted. As there relationship beings to grow, a stalker has other plans for Clare.

In addition, since the inn s over 200 years old there’s apparently a ghost haunting it. She makes her presence known to only a few, including Beckett, and plays a key role near the end.

While Clare and Beckett’s relationship moves slowly, it’s realistic. Both have time-consuming jobs and Clare has 3 small boys. Dates have to fit around hectic schedules and sick children. The time Beckett spends with Clare’s boys is humorous and hear-warming. Clare’s friends, Avery and Hope, also play major roles in her life, as Beckett’s brothers play in his.

Roberts goes into great detail describing the renovation progress. She gives vivid descriptions of the inn’s look and atmosphere. The rooms, each named after literary lovers, are beautifully described. Writers are encouraged to write what they know. Well, Roberts knows this inn (it really exists) and she’s able to put the reader into the inn because of that.

Macleod Andrews does an amazing job narrating the story. His voice has just the perfect blend of shyness and sexuality when he portrays Beckett. His interruption of Clare brings out her vulnerability while putting on a brave front. His vocals as Clare’s boys will make you smile and laugh out loud. He does a wonderful job bringing the supporting characters to life. His mannerisms throughout the story are an added bonus.

THE NEXT ALWAYS is more than a romance story with a hint of suspense. It’s about the bond between brothers, the loyalty of friendship, the compassion of small towns, pride in history, and the strength of family.

There really is a Inn Boonsboro and Turn The Page book store. Roberts and her husband, Bruce Wilder, renovated the inn which matches the one in the book. In addition, Wilder owns the book store across the street from the inn. For more on these and other elements related to the book, visit www.innboonsboro.com.

Real life agendas fall by the wayside as you get absorbed in Clare and Beckett’s world. I don’t think I’ve done the story or the narration justice here today so give it a listen (or read) for yourself.

The next installment in the series, THE LAST BOYFRIEND, is slated for release in May 2012.

Author Nora Roberts’ website is www.noraroberts.com

The Next Always by Nora Roberts, Book One of the Inn Boonsboro Trilogy, Read by Macleod Andrews, Brilliance Audio, @2011, ISBN: 978-1455806843, Unabridged, 10 Discs, Listening Time: 11 Hours 26 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 stopping by today. Have you read (or listened) to either of these books? What are your thoughts on them?

 

Books, Books, Books, Books

Boy, do I have diversity for you today!

I have sang the praises of audio books before and continue to say they are a great way to ‘read’ while you’re busy doing other things. Today I have 4 very interesting audio books to share with you, including my first review of a YA novel.

Author Josi S. Kilpack was scheduled to post today on her blog tour, but was unable to so I thought I’d share some reviews. Sorry for the long post, but I’m trying to share as many reviews as I can in a few slots this month. Now for the reviews.

SHATNER RULES by William Shatner with Chris Regan

 

If you’re a fan of Captain James T. Kirk or savvy lawyer Denny Crane, you’ll love SHATNER RULES.

This is a collection of rules explaining why and how Shatner is Shatner and we know there can be only one. Witty and entertaining, Shatner talks about his four decades in show business and how saying ‘yes’ has lead him in so many different directions.

SHATNER RULES is a very candid look at some of Shatner’s accomplishments, the lessons he has learned in life, and even old feuds with former cast members. A mix of hilarious and tender moments, SHATNER RULES will have you laughing one minute and warming your heart the next. Shatner talks about such things as his trouble with Facebook and selling a kidney stone for charity. There’s a house in New Orleans that Bill’s kidney built.

There are Rules, Fun Factners, and William Flashbackners throughout the story. By the end you will realize there is a difference between Shatner and Bill. While Shatner may seem to have a bit of an attitude to have made it where he has, Bill still has a good heart with compassion for his fellow humans and the earth.

Still going strong at 80, there is no telling what Shatner will tackle next. SHATNER RULES will open your eyes to the world of Shatner where there is much more than just Kirk, Crane and the Priceline Negotiator.  I would recommend the audio version of this book as it is read by Shatner himself.

Author William Shatner’s website is www.williamshatner.com

Shatner Rules: Your Guide to Understanding the Shatnerverse and the World at Large by William Shatner with Chris Regan, Read by William Shatner, Penguin Audio, @2011, ISBN: 978-1611760231, Unabridged, 4 Discs, Listening Time: 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.

THE APOTHECARY by Maile Meloy

 

I don’t think I’ve read a YA novel since I was a YA. Back then we didn’t refer to them as YAs, they were just books.

Reading THE APOTHECARY will give you the sense of youth and dreams while also fueling the adult need for a great story. This is a wonderful book to share with your children.

The protagonist is 14-year-old Janie Scot. Her family moves to London from Los Angeles in 1952. Janie finds herself in a strange town attending school with no friends. Then she meets Benjamin Burrows, a mysterious classmate who defies school authorities about bomb drills. He is also the son of the apothecary down the street from Janie’s home.

Soon Janie learns Benjamin dreams of being a spy as she helps him with a project one afternoon. Little do they know they are about to be involved in one of the greatest spy adventures ever. When Benjamin’s father is kidnapped, it’s up to the teens to help find him as they uncover secrets from his sacred book, The Pharmacopoeia. In addition, they have to keep the book safe from Russian spies.

They discover transforming elixirs and various magical potions, meet some entertaining new friends along the way, all while helping stop impending nuclear disaster. While some of their methods may sound like a fairy tale, author Maile Meloy will have you believing in the impossible before you know it.

The wonderful accent of Narrator Cristin Milioti is a delight. She gives depth to the characters and brings the action to life.

I highly recommend this tale of friendship, loyalty and love for mankind. It includes a big dose of humor and magic for a well-rounded story.

Author Maile Meloy’s website is www.mailemeloy.com and there is also a site for the book at www.theapothecarybook.com

The Apothecary by Maile Meloy, Read by Cristin Milioti, Penguin Audio, @2011, ISBN: 978-1611760095, Unabridged, 7 Discs, Listening Time: 7 Hours 30 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.

CHAOS IN DEATH by J.D. Robb

 

Lieutenant Eve Dallas is back on the job after her last case in NEW YORK TO DALLAS. This time around the killer has her doing a double take.

In CHAOS IN DEATH, Dallas is investigating the murder of three people in an abandoned building. The trio, all recovering addicts, are friends and seem to have no enemies. 

When a witness comes forward to describe what she saw the night of the killings, Dallas isn’t sure what to make of it at first. The suspect has green skin, big red eyes, a dislocated jaw, and danced in the street twirling his cape.

The investigation leads Dallas and her team to a medical facility where testing is being done to help addicts. The more they learn, the more the suspect list grows.

Author J.D. Robb will keep you guessing who the murderer is and why right until the end. The usual cast of great supporting characters are included in this tale of a twisted killer.

CHAOS IN DEATH is shorter than most of the In Death installments, but lacks nothing in suspense and intrigue. This is a stand alone story but might make you a bit curious if you haven’t read NEW YORK TO DALLAS.

Narrator Susan Ericksen does a marvelous job bringing these characters to life. She gives each their own unique voice.

Author J.D. Robb’s website is www.jdrobb.com

Chaos in Death by J.D. Robb, An In Death Novel, Read by Susan Ericksen, Brilliance Audio, @2011, ISBN: 978-1455818471, Unabridged, 3 Discs, Listening Time: 3 Hours 41 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.

CHRISTMAS AT TIMBERWOODS by Fern Michaels

 

Christmas brings to mind crowded malls filled with busy shoppers, noisy children, and colorful decorations. Add in a possible explosion and you have the action-packed novel, CHRISTMAS AT TIMBERWOODS.

It’s the busiest time of the year at Timberwoods Mall keeping security manager Heather Andrews on her toes. When the young woman who designed the mall’s holiday displays comes to see her, Heather’s not sure what to make of it. Angela Steinhart has premonitions and this time she’s seen an explosion at the mall during the height of the shopping season.

As Heather and her boss, Lex, check into the matter, the more convinced they become the vision may come true. Meanwhile, a mall employee has had more than he can take of his co-workers treatment and decides on a fatal course of action.

Author Fern Michaels weaves the lives of her characters into an intriguing plot of suspense, action, and bits of romance. New friendships are forged and lives change forever. The story will keep you on the edge of your seat as you count down the hours till the deadline with Heather, Lex and the rest of the security team.

Tanya Eby does a wonderful job in her narration giving voice to these interesting chracters.

Author Fern Michael’s website is www.fernmichaels.com

Christmas At Timberwoods by Fern Michaels, Read by Tanya Eby, Brilliance Audio, @2011, ISBN: 978-1455841448, Unabridged, 7 Discs, Listening Time: 8 Hours 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.

Hope you find something here to listen to or read as all of these novels are also available in print editions. Have you read any of these yet? Are any already on your TBR stack or on your wish list? Thanks so much for stopping by.

Sunday Salon: Reviews To Share

The days are beginning to get shorter, temperatures are a bit cooler and it’s once again time for Sunday Salon where we share our thoughts on books we’ve read.

This week I’d like to tell you about 3 audio books I listened to. I love print books, but audios are wonderful too. They allow you to ‘read’ a book while making your way through rush hour traffic or preparing a meal. Here’s some good reads to consider.

THE CRADLE IN THE GRAVE 

by Sophie Hannah

THE CRADLE IN THE GRAVE may be listed as a psychological thriller, but it could also be listed as a thought-provoking novel.

The heart of the story deals with the conviction and later release of 3 women wrongly accused of murdering their young children. The women are Helen Yardley, Sarah Jaggard, and Rachel Hines. They are dubbed the ‘crib-death mothers.’

TV producer Fliss Benson finds herself suddenly making a documentary about the 3 women after her boss, Laurie Nattrass, quits and hands everything over to her. Nattrass, however, intends to still run the project from the shadows. He is, after all, the one who championed to have the women released.

To add to Fliss’ confusion, she receives a card in the mail with 16 numbers on it - 4 rows, each with 4 numbers - and nothing else. Before she gets started on the documentary, Helen Yardley is found shot to death. A card like Fliss received is found in Helen’s pocket.

This story is filled with questions of are the women really innocent or really guilty. With a secret of her own, Fliss become determined to make the documentary her way no matter what.

Author Sophie Hannah has created a cast of characters that are intriguing, a bit zany at times, and complex. Narrator Elizabeth Sastre does a wonderful job bringing the characters to life and giving them depth with her lovely British accent.

This is the fifth mystery by Hannah to feature Det. Sgt. Charlotte ‘Charlie’ Zailer and Det. Constable Simon Waterhouse. While there are some references to prior events that aren’t explained, they don’t cause holes in the current storyline.

There are twists and turns at the end that may surprise you. THE CRADLE IN THE GRAVE is well worth the listen (or read). 

Author Sophie Hannah’s website is http://www.sophiehannah.com/

The Cradle in the Grave by Sophie Hannah, Read by Elizabeth Sastre, Penguin Audio, @2011, ISBN: 978-1-10-152356-8, Unabridged Digital Download, Listening Time: 12 Hours, 4 Minutes

FTC Full Disclosure - I requested this audio book and it was sent to me by the publisher in hopes I would review it. However, receiving the complimentary copy did not influence my review.

WHAT ALICE FORGOT by Liane Moriarty

How often have you wished you could go back in time and change a part of your life?

WHAT ALICE FORGOT by Liane Moriarty shows that going back to re-live one’s history can be a mixed blessing. It can be even trickier when you don’t remember part of your past.

Waking from a fall at the gym, Alice Love is a happy, carefree 29-year-old woman. She’s in love with her fabulous husband, Nick, and they are expecting their first child - or so she thinks. In reality, Alice will soon celebrate her 40th birthday, has 3 children, and is in the midst of a divorce. In addition, she and her sister, Elisabeth, once very close are now no longer on good terms.

Alice has lost a decade of her life and can’t remember what has taken her to the path she’s on now. She has to re-connect with her sister, try to save her marriage, and get to know her children all over again. In addition, she has to find the women she once was.

Author Liane Moriarty has mingled fun and witty moments throughout the story while dealing with loss and regret. The narration by Tamara Lovatt-Smith adds charm to this story. WHAT ALICE FORGOT will make you stop and think, ‘What if?’

Author Liane Moriarty’s website is http://lianemoriarty.com.au/

What Alice Forgot by Liane Moriarty, Read by Tamara Lovatt-Smith, Penguin Audio, @2011, ISBN: 978-1-10-155501-9, Unabridged Digital Download, Listening Time: 13 Hours, 32 Minutes

FTC Full Disclosure - I requested this audio book and it was sent to me by the publisher in hopes I would review it. However, receiving the complimentary copy did not influence my review.

ABUSE OF POWER by Michael Savage

ABUSE OF POWER, the debut novel by conservative radio talk show host Michael Savage, is an intriguing thriller that might just surprise you.

Jack Hatfield, a hardened war correspondent, has been fired from his job for controversial statements. He’s even banned from entering the UK. Jack takes a job in San Francisco as a freelance news producer.

A carjacking turns deadly one afternoon when military-grade explosives are found after the car wrecks. Jack, riding with the SFPD bomb squad, arrives at the scene. Within minutes the bomb explodes as his friend attempts to disarm it. Jack begins to question about the car’s owner and is told to stay out of it. When a quick arrest is made, Jack knows there’s much more to the story and begins to dig.

The story follows a mysterious trail through London, Tel Aviv, and Paris. Jack discovers there’s a terrorist group known as the Hand of Allah with a very real threat to the safety of the country.

This is an action-packed adventure that starts slow then explodes into suspense. Like most books of this type, ABUSE OF POWER is filled with political views.

The wonderful narration by Peter Larkin brings Jack’s emotions and concerns to the surface. This will keep you guessing and surprising you right up until the end.

Author Michael Savage’s website is  http://www.michaelsavage.wnd.com/

Abuse of Power by Michael Savage, Read by Peter Larkin, Macmilllan Audio, @2011, ISBN: 978-1-4272-1374-7, Unabridged, 9 Discs, Listening Time: 11 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.

What have you read or listened to this past week? What are you reading now? Thanks so much for stopping by. Have a wonderful Sunday.