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Entertaining and can't wait Book 3

Overall
4 out of 5 stars
Performance
4 out of 5 stars
Story
4 out of 5 stars

Reviewed: 12-22-24

Highly suggest this series for anyone who enjoys history woven in with magic, science fiction, alien worlds, and entertaining characters. This series takes the reader on a journey with Ben, Abu, and Louisa. What I appreciate about this series is the history and the very strong female protagonist Louisa. It seems as if many authors really struggle with creating a truly strong female heroine with authenticity and yet Mr. Cowdrey has done just that. The characters are real in the sense that they are strong, yet human and flawed, but not excessively or over exaggerated in any way.

Book 2 continues to reveal more fascinating insights about Aaru, but without giving away too much and perhaps that is the only reason I gave 4 stars in this book compared to the first in the series where I gave a well deserved 5 stars to this brand new author. Keep in mind that I am a very harsh critic of books and enjoy many genres; however, I believe that authenticate and accurate reviews are the most beneficial for future readers and the author should they choose to read them. As such, I very rarely give a 5 star review, so a 4 is a very worthwhile read!

Back to the review: I truly appreciate all the hard work it is clear the author did in understanding and appreciating the cultures of others. Although as a reader, someone may not agree with some of the cultural practices represented, they are accurate and appropriate to the story as this world is based on old history. Therefore the authenticity is clear and I appreciate how he wove the cultural backgrounds into the story; for example with the welven society. Where appropriate, the author has also mentioned what he doesn't agree with in the culture without it being to obnoxious and he has also given liberties where possible to offset some of these concerns.

I also enjoy learning about Abu, his culture, and watching him struggle and grow as a young man. The family dynamics of Abu and Ben is extremely well and beautifully written. There are some new characters introduced into this book as well and although that can be difficult or take away from the story, I did not feel that occurred in this book; however, as with the first Book, due to complexities of the characters and the world, as an Audible reader, I would have appreciated a PDF of the characters.

The only reason for giving this Book 4 stars is that I felt there were a few periods of time where it dragged. In series, I have found that Book 2 often lags, but did feel that there was some missed opportunities where there should have been a little more story or world building to keep things more interesting and fluid.

Overall, this is a fantastic series offering the reader a lot of action, adventure, history and science fiction. I highly recommend and very much looking forward to Book 3. Next in my listen includes Louisa Sophia and Legion of Sisters. Happy Reading!

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First book read by Brian Doyle, but not the last.

Overall
5 out of 5 stars
Performance
5 out of 5 stars
Story
5 out of 5 stars

Reviewed: 10-29-24

Book review: The Author Brian Doyle takes us on an incredible journey through a year in the lives of many human and non-human inhabitants on an Oregon mountain.

This isn't my usual genre of book, but a friend recommended and it came up in my book recommendations and I am very happy I listened.

The book is so much more than a coming of age story about a young boy - Dave. In parallel with a Marten, the storytelling pulls you in; the romance between Ms. Moss and Mr. Douglas, the friendship between Dave and Moon, Moon and his parents, the connection between Cosmos and the Robinsons, the music and struggles of the Unabled Lady, Emma’s personal journey, and let us not forget Maria.

Through the eyes of the non-human's Martin (a pine marten), Louis (an elk), Edwin (a horse), an unnamed dog friend of Mr. Shapiro, and all the non-human characters, the reader is touched by their adventures, fears, survival, and yes, possibly love.

In many books like this, readers could be frustrated by what some would consider anthropomorphism; however, Doyle does stress that we can’t possibly understand their thoughts and knowledge. I agree with others who have said that - his way of writing is distinct and crafted in such a way that it really worked for me. His style of blending the non-human and human storytelling was a major compliment to the storytelling and a beautiful reminder that the humans are not the only living beings on the mountain.

So yes, Mr. Doyle took some fantastical liberties, but in my mind it did not distract from the story, but was a huge enhancement. The beauty, sensitivity, and emotions felt were worth it. For me the best books allow me to get away from the daily grind, provide excitement, learning, feeling the beauty of the world around me, and in many ways get at the truth or heart of the story by whatever means available to the Author. .

This Author uses a boy, a community, a mountain, and a Marten to get at the truth and heart of the book..

I highly suggest adding to your reading or listening list - it is well worth it. Hoping for a book 2.

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Ok continuation, no surprises, fantastic narration

Overall
4 out of 5 stars
Performance
5 out of 5 stars
Story
3 out of 5 stars

Reviewed: 08-15-24

I enjoyed the 1st book so much more. Interesting story that led you down unknown paths and great character development. Could not wait for book 2 and where the story would go.

Athough still a worthwhile listen, this book was slow, lacked as much depth, and had too many unexpected character changes that came out of no where. If you are going to change storyline, character development, make it believable, not laughable.

All in all, I still recommend and will listen to Book 3 to see what happens next.

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Skip this one

Overall
3 out of 5 stars
Performance
2 out of 5 stars
Story
3 out of 5 stars

Reviewed: 10-29-23

I have been a big fan of listening to this series with Meg Jennings and her search and rescue dog, Hawk, but this one really missed the mark for me in so many ways. In this story, it's hunting season. But this time, the prey is human. The story had real potential, but as soon as it started, it was clear there was a new narrator.

I hate to say terrible things about a narrator as I am sure it takes practice and skills, but I was thinking - no, no, no this is terrible and had to stop listening. I would go back and try again and only be able to tolerate for short periods: tone was too mechanical, voice too old sounding for character, did not sound interested in story, and male voices were aweful and nondestict. After about a 1/3 of the book, she improved somewhat.

Now for the story: If you are new, please do not start with this book, her other books are way better. The team dynamics are fun and characters are likeable. I enjoy reading about dog behavior and training, so the tips throughout are appropriate and interesting. The handler relationship is great with a nice mystery to distract me after a crazy day at work. However, this book I found frustrating and Meg's attitute as a touch, "of I am better than everyone and only I can do this" which resulted in her being in extremely stupid scenarios. Although I also enjoy some education and history, this book was over the top and left me with a bad taste.

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Work life balance struggles? Highly recommend

Overall
5 out of 5 stars
Performance
4 out of 5 stars
Story
5 out of 5 stars

Reviewed: 10-19-23

I read and listen to a large number of books and am very selective on a 5 star rating. This book I highly recommend buying a copy for yourself, friends and family members who struggle with work-life balance and/or just entering the workforce.

Each topic and story in this wonderful book resonated with me in a profound way and I suspect that it will resonate with a number of American workers who have been led to believe that work is family or you are the job. I, like many people, have been led to beleve that we need to identify ourselves by the job and work we do. Stolzoff's order of the book gently guides you through examples to think inward and reexamine your work-life balance.

This is something that we all know, but this book helped me to realize I was not alone and how this unhealthy relationship sneaks into our careers over time.

This was an Audible listen and he narrates the book himself. He does an excellent job and has a very easy voice to listen to. My only reason for the 4 star review is that on occassion he would stress the "p" at the end of a word. Over time, it became slightly annoying and in the future, I would recommend he be more careful, but overall an excellent job.

This book is well worth the credit and I have recommended to many friends. Enjoy and hope it helps you as much as it did me!

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Cute start to a new series

Overall
3 out of 5 stars
Performance
3 out of 5 stars
Story
3 out of 5 stars

Reviewed: 07-16-23

Fred moves to Estes Park to be with family and open a book store The local police have an easy suspect—Barry. Determined to prove quirky Barry innocent of murder, Fred puts on her detective hat, and with Watson by her side, she explores her new town and gets acquainted with her fellow shopkeepers. 

This book has some likeable characters; Barry, her mother and her relatives and adds in just a bit of drama with a little romance developing, so have high hopes for series. The town is cute and look forward to learning more about the characters and the budding romance.

Spoilers and update: By book 3, I realize I no longer like the protagonist and stopped listening. 1) She is childish and borders on narcissistic. Became frustrated with the continued "Don't tell me what to do even though I know I'm wrong!" comments. 2) Tries to be snarky, but comes across as pompous and bratty 3) Irresponsible dog owner. Perhaps the author thinks this is cute, but rather, it is unhealthy for Watson and unrepresentive of a proper owner dog relationship. Sorry, I just can't get over feeding her dog too many blueberry scones! Fred says I know it isn't good for you, but going to give you all these baked goods anyway. By book 8, she will have to roll Watson out of bookstore like in Charlie and Chocolate factory.

Even free, I no longer suggest this series, and I have returned. I am really sad as I had high hopes.

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Still enjoyable, but main character went rogue

Overall
4 out of 5 stars
Performance
4 out of 5 stars
Story
3 out of 5 stars

Reviewed: 07-02-23

The narrator does an amazing job of bringing this story to life. I really enjoyed book 1. but this book was not as believable. I don't want to give spoilers, so suffice to say lead character got a bit full of herself.

Regardless, I have already used a credit and listening to the next book and would recommend if you are looking for a K-9 book.

Stay tuned for next review and let's hope Hawk and Meg get back on track!

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Great start to new K-9 series

Overall
4 out of 5 stars
Performance
4 out of 5 stars
Story
4 out of 5 stars

Reviewed: 06-29-23

Fast-paced and enjoyable new K-9 story. I'm fairly new listening to this genre and find I really like these dog books. Meg and Hawk are a great pair, and author provides interesting dog training terms throughout. I liked all the character development that surrounds the pair. It is a short listen, but enough is provided to pique your interest in the characters and for them to be likable.

Performance was well done, easy listen with just the right amount of emotion; not over the top.

This was a free listen and I enjoyed enough to use a credit for book 2. Looking forward to them continuing to get the bad guy!

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Things are not what they seem

Overall
4 out of 5 stars
Performance
4 out of 5 stars
Story
3 out of 5 stars

Reviewed: 06-22-23

This book is quite a conundrum for me, insofar as reviewing it is concerned. It is fairly sparsely written, that’s to say the author does not get in too deep, and makes it easy to read/listen. I was frustrated with the supporting characters, especially Andy as he really needed more character development as he lost his purpose in the story, but overall, it still fit the storyline well.

The premise was fantastic and "Bub" is truly a horror villain. Luke Daniels does a great job, especially with Bub - just enough deep growl to be creepy.

I disagree with the author labeling this as technothriller as, at its core, it is more horror given the collection of broken people, the religious undertones, and the gore throughout the novel. Due to Bub's unique sense of humor, it is not the type of horror to keep you up all night, but I enjoyed immensely. If you are not open to liberties taken with religion, you may want to skip.

Is this a 5 star book, in my opinion, absolutely not, but is it worth a read or listen? Yes, I would recommend. It has a unique storyline, horror villain, filled with interesting, although disturbed, broken characters. These character flaws are what allows the story to work and are pivotal to the devil. Lets face it, the devil wants to pull out your deepest desires and give you what you want. I enjoyed the religious and scientific discussions, which were just enough to keep you guessing on where the storyline was going. I appreciated the twists. What made it 3 for me is the same as what others noted, with a little more research and care, the author could have made this a 5 star book.

Please note, book 2 is now available, but not on Audible. I am looking forward to reading when I have time - I can't wait to find out what havic Bub is creating now and hope the book provides more details about Bub's past.

Enjoy!

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Dating dragons is fun!

Overall
5 out of 5 stars
Performance
5 out of 5 stars
Story
5 out of 5 stars

Reviewed: 02-20-23

The first book in Molly Harper's new Mystic Bayou series! is a huge hit. I do not usually give these types of books 5 stars, but I really enjoyed them.

Anthropologist Jillian Ramsay's career has taken a turn south. Concerned that technology is about to chase mythological creatures out into the open, the League for Interspecies Cooperation is sending Jillian to Louisiana on a fact-finding mission to find how this town makes it work. The overall theme is a rift that is causing havoc with the creatures and normals alike. The town is wonderfully described, and characters are likable. I don't want to give anything away, but the sweet details - like the pies - really set the book apart.

Funny, sexy, lighthearted book filled with mythological creatures and intrigue. This was a win for me, and I could not stop listening.

Narrators did a great job.

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