Kelly
K. Loraine and Meg Anne have crafted an amazing story of intrigue, mystery, and sexiness that will keep you inthralled from the first to the last page. Not to mention anxiously counting down the days to the next book, Reflection.
Honesty time. I wasn't going to read this book until all four books in the series were released. However, I caved, and I am so glad that I did.
Not only is this a fantastic storyline with characters you will instantly love, (and maybe hate) but they are performed by some of the best voice actors in the business. Jason Clarke, J.F. Harding, James Joseph, Aaron Shedlock, and Stella Hunter each bring something unique to the character they voice.
JC brings an Irish brogue that will have the fangirls swooning as vampire priest, Caleb. J.F. Harding is alpha AF as Shifter, Kingston. James Joseph is fast becoming a go-to British voice and for good reason, he voices vampire, Noah. Aaron Shedlock bring a whole new appreciation as Norse God, Alek.
But stealing the show is Stella Hunter as Sunday, a shifter who can't shift. She is phenomenal in this book. There are so many female voices, for people, creatures, and accents, at times, I wasn't even sure if it was her. I kept thinking they had left off another female voice actor because each voice was so distinct. I was blown away.
I loved how this story had me captivated from the beginning. I needed to know why these men were so drawn to Sunday and how she was ever going to choose. (Don't do it, girl! It's a trap!) the interactions of the characters had me laughing, groaning, and swooning.
I liked that although this is a university, the characters are a little older than I expected. Not that I'm opposed to standard university age, but it just added to the uniqueness of the story.
If spicy is your jam, this book has that a plenty, but it is so much more than that. It is intriguing and suspenseful and yes, sexy. If you're anything like me, you will be hard-pressed to pick a side. Each has qualities that draw you to them. I vote all of them! It is a RH after all.
I cannot wait for book two.
If you don't think PNR or RH is your thing, I urge you to give this book a try. I think you'll be surprised by how much you enjoy it.
Just when you think Erin Mallon has thought of everything, and there is nothing else she can bring to the These Walls Can Talk series about the audiobook community, she lets you know how wrong you were to think such foolishness.
We're back with the whole gang-Joe Arden (Atticus aka The Narwhal), Tanya Eby (Georgia), Shane East (Cameron), Emma Wilder (Jennifer aka Niffer), Teddy Hamilton (Neil), Andi Arndt (Vera), Maxine Mitchell (Andrea), and Erin Mallon (Narrator and Frankie) all return. And this time, they have Jason Clarke as Artie Smarts with them.
Artie is an AI. In this current climate of authors and companies wanting to use AI in audiobooks (much to listeners objections) it was a very clever and hilarious way to show the downside of it. As will all things Erin there are layers to this story and it also deals with boundaries when people make themselves available on social media. There are some lines that just seem funny at first listen but then stick with you and make you think differently. It's one of the things I love about Erin's writing.
Each of the voice actors brings something unique and brilliant to the character they voice. However, Jason Clarke steals the show as Artie. It is like you have never heard him before. Trust me, if you think you've heard all sides to Jason, he's about to prove you wrong.
I will never get enough of this series. I hope there will be more in the future because I love these characters and the look behind the curtain of the audiobook industry. Add in the interactions of the voice actors and it is something special to experience.
Thank you to Erin Mallon, Joe Arden, Andi Arndt, Shane East, Tanya Eby, Teddy Hamilton, Maxine Mitchell, Jason Clarke, and Emma Wilder for creating such an amazing listening experience and entertaining us in such a wonderful way.
This was a cute little novella. Only 2 hours 35 minutes on audio. For being so short it is filled with action and suspense. It's about an established couple that have a bad day. I really enjoyed it. Stella Hunter and Evan Parker narrate in duet and they were brilliant. Evan Parker is not a narrator to be sleeping on if you like a deep, growly voice.
What a book. It's a tough one to review because of the content. This is a book about loss and grief and learning to forgive yourself. It beautiful and raw and hits all the emotions. It is a slow burn so if you are wanting a story that focuses on the ‘fun times' this isn't going to be the book for you. Charlotte is sunshine to Tate's grumpy and it fits them perfectly. I loved Charlotte's progression and growth through this story, it really is her story.
The ending. Oh man, the ending.
I will probably edit this in a bit to say more.
I listened to the audiobook, which is performed by Ava Erickson, Sebastian York, and Jacob Morgan. I think JM does around 20% the rest is Ava and Sebastian. Ava Erickson stole the show. She was phenomenal. And Sebastian plays grief-stricken characters so well, and he didn't disappoint.
TW: Suicide. Depression. Grief.
I have heard such good things about Kayley Loring that I was super excited to listen to this book. Add in the premise, and it felt like a guaranteed good read. Unfortunately, I was highly disappointed. The comedy seemed forced and lacking. I'm not a fan of bathroom humour anyway but the odd joke here or there I can handle, this book relied so heavily on it that I just couldn't enjoy the story. I laugh maybe three times and that was near the end. It just wasn't funny to me. The characters didn't come across as very likeable, which also added to the difficulties while listening.
I have been told her other books hit the mark, so I may try again. This one definitely wasn't a good fit for me.
That being said, the narrators were brilliant. I had issue with one of them and their accent work but that's a standard issue I have with him. Emma Wilder and Teddy Hamilton were fantastic and the support voice actors enhanced the audio experience.
You must read or get a play-by-play of Pretty Little Savage and Stone Cold Queen before reading this book. It's a true trilogy. As with the previous books, reader discretion is advised. This is a dark book and contains some difficult themes - I'm happy to go into more detail for anyone with specific triggers, just message me.
Throughout reading this book I didn't know whether to swoon or question my morality. Some messed up stuff happens, and I was pretty much okay with it. Lucy Smoke has a way of writing that is captivating and intriguing. The suspense in this trilogy is all the things. You want answers, and you get most of them. I cannot wait for more books from the other characters. I need Abel and Brax's stories already!
This was a cute coming of age, friends to lovers story. The tension and buildup was great, and I loved the interactions. There is always that one character you want to slap and that is no different here, luckily, her tricks were easy to spot. I liked how there wasn't a lot of conflict because the characters knew each other well and worked things out fast.
Desiree Ketchum and James Cavanagh were brilliant. Although, I did feel James sounded a little old to be voicing such a young character but overall, it was a lovely, quick listen.
It's been a while since I read this book. I forgot how much Jeremy Robinson and J. Kent Holloway put poor Jack through. I really enjoyed seeing Jack in the past and what he got up to. It's Jack, so you know he is on the side of good and saving the day. This was a fun and entertaining listen. Fans of the Chess Team/ Jack Sigler Thrillers should definitely make sure to pick this one up. Jeffrey Kafer delivered a wonderful and engaging performance.
I really enjoyed this book, and I thought it was perfectly cast. Jo Raylan and Zachary Webber were brilliant. I loved that the author included pansexuality in the story, and it felt like a natural part of it. The author didn't make a big song and dance about being inclusive in her storytelling, she just was. I will always love that.
Linden and Jasper are such a fun couple, and I really enjoyed their dynamic.
The side characters in this story are all the things. Especially Linden's parents. I laughed so much. I hear his siblings have books too, so I'm going to need to move them up my TBL because I need more from his family.
My only issue was the way it felt necessary to keep trying to show that the heroine was an independent woman by telling the reader rather than showing it with her actions. It felt very much like an ‘I am woman, hear me roar' thing and it wouldn't have been that off-putting if it wasn't continuous throughout the book. That being said, I really enjoyed Jasper's progression through the story, and how Linden helped her see things through a different lens.
Sometimes you just need a well written, entertaining, creepy read and The Dark by Jeremy Robinson delivers on all fronts. It's been a while since I've listened to a ten hour book in a day, but once I started this book, I was captivated and couldn't put it down. It has the usual JR blend of action, suspense, and humour...not to mention creepiness. This book will leave you feeling like you've just been on a wide ride but rather than needing a break, you want to dive back in and do it all over again. I loved the little parallels to the state of the world for the past year and for those suffering with chronic illnesses. Not to mention the pop culture references and Easter eggs for Jeremy's other books. (Must go listen to Tribe now)
RC Bray was perfect for this story. He does creepy so well. He gives each character their own unique voice and each scene it's own tone that works perfectly for what is happening. The bloopers at the end were a brilliant addition. Production was great with no issues.
I put off listening to this book for a long time. I didn't think my emotions could take it. Plus I heard it had a power dynamic where the male gives up the control, and that isn't my favourite. Add in that it is a duet, and I wasn't in a rush.
THAT WAS A MISTAKE!
This duet is all the things. I loved it.
The power exchange actually worked perfectly for this couple, and I loved how they explored it. Gareth and Sloan are all the things. Although I wasn't a fan of all the choices Sloan made, I love that Gareth was steadfast. And she did open herself up to love.
There are characters that will make you want to throw your device, I urge you not to do this. Stay with it, all will be okay.
The scenes between Gareth and his dad are some of the hardest hitting scenes and make the book more beautiful because of it. The entire Harris clan feature in this duet and as always bring so much laughter and family love.
Will Watt was perfection in this story. I thought he delivered in the earlier books, but this blew them out of the park. I loved that Charlotte Cole voiced the Harris bros women as I can't imagine anyone else doing them justice. Piper Goodeve was great as Sloan, although I will admit to struggling at times, but not frequent enough to discredit the rest of her performance.
I put off listening to this book for a long time. I didn't think my emotions could take it. Plus I heard it had a power dynamic where the male gives up the control, and that isn't my favourite. Add in that it is a duet, and I wasn't in a rush.
THAT WAS A MISTAKE!
This duet is all the things. I loved it.
The power exchange actually worked perfectly for this couple, and I loved how they explored it. Gareth and Sloan are all the things. Although I wasn't a fan of all the choices Sloan made, I love that Gareth was steadfast. And she did open herself up to love.
There are characters that will make you want to throw your device, I urge you not to do this. Stay with it, all will be okay.
The scenes between Gareth and his dad are some of the hardest hitting scenes and make the book more beautiful because of it. The entire Harris clan feature in this duet and as always bring so much laughter and family love.
Will Watt was perfection in this story. I thought he delivered in the earlier books, but this blew them out of the park. I loved that Charlotte Cole voiced the Harris bros women as I can't imagine anyone else doing them justice. Piper Goodeve was great as Sloan, although I will admit to struggling at times, but not frequent enough to discredit the rest of her performance.
Erin Mallon has brought the original cast back for a ‘what happens next...' for a catch-up with out favourite audiobooks narrators/ audio engineer/ authors/ and listener, and this time, The Narwal is in love! Including two new characters that are all the things. The writing will keep you entertained from the moment you press play until the final ‘We hope you have enjoy this programme.'
With brilliant performances from Erin Mallon, Shane East, Andi Arndt, Teddy Hamilton, Tanya Eby, Joe Arden, Emma Wilder, and Maxine Mitchell. Each of them brought something special to the role they played and infused laughter and enjoyment for the listener whilst maintaining the top-notch quality we have come to expect from these pros. A must listen.
I really enjoyed this book. It kept me listening throughout the day wanting to know what was going to happen next. My only issue really is the virgin element and some things that are said that leave me trying to figure out how and why. Otherwise, it's a fun and entertaining story. I love that it had very little drama. And practically none in the relationship. The consent conversations were important to the characters and that really made an impact on the way they were viewed. I know I loved Holden just a little bit more for his concern.
I will say that out of the five...yes five epilogues, I felt only two were really about this couple. The rest were more to let us know about other characters. It was fun to include but not necessary for the conclusion of this couple's story.
The narration was top-notch. When I heard it was going to be Ava Erickson and Jason Clarke I could have jumped in excitement. Talk about a dream team narrator pair-up, and they did not disappoint. Props to Lauren for using someone with a believable British accent for a side character. I love how Ava and Jason's voices complemented each other and has their transitions were smooth and easy to listen to. Five star performances from both of them. The production was great with no issues.
4.5 stars
This was my first Kandi Steiner book but it won't be my last. I loved Kandi's writing style and how she blended everything together.
I thoroughly enjoyed this story. It follows Makoa, a Polynesian football player, who is looking for love, and Belle, an interior designer, who has sworn off love and only wants to have fun. Together they are chef's kiss...if only he wasn't keeping a secret. I wanted to bash his head so many times, but he was such a good guy and it wasn't coming from a horrible place that I couldn't be mad at him. I spend so much time reading about the ‘bad guy' heroes that I forgot how freaking wonderful a good guy hero can be. But I've been reminded and it was brilliant. Belle, oh Belle, she was such a strong character, and I loved the way she owned her sexuality. We see male characters like it all the time so it was such a great change of pace to have a female character be the way shying away from relationships and enjoying having fun. She comes with some vulnerability, and I think that worked really well and made her so likeable. Another thing I loved about this book was the diversity, the way little things would happen or be included or said to include the Polynesian. Especially when it came to arranging his apartment—I was ready to move in! It's a true sports romance in that the sport plays a part, it's not just a passing thing that is mentioned.
I made the mistake of starting with book two. Although it is a standalone. I'm looking forward to going back and reading The Wrong Game and enjoying Gemma and Zach's story.
I really struggled with how to rate this book. The story is cute and fun, and had I read it instead of listening, I probably would have enjoyed it more.
Unfortunately, some of the British aspects of the story didn't sit well with me. Mainly, because they were mixed in with the American and it just became confusing. I understand that an American audience is probably the demographic they are aiming at but in that case, I feel that the hero should have been American or at least grew up there.
I usually love listening to Lili Valente and Shane East but this book just fell flat for me. I think had the narration been a duet narration it would have been more enjoyable. The change from POV and accent was so harsh that it was difficult to focus on the story.
This was a really fun book to listen to. RC Bray brought the characters to life perfectly. The Roach was the perfect antihero. His story is one that will make people consider their moral compass. When is killing okay? Factor in the brilliant way the story progresses and the intrigue of who and why. Then, there is the fact that the ‘hero' of the story is dependant on a wheelchair and it throws a whole new light on what people are ‘able' to do. It was so good to see representation that we don't usually see, especially in thriller stories.
Once again, Erin Mallon showcases her amazing talent for writing engaging plays that not only make you laugh but tug at your heartstrings as well. I've said it before, and I'll say it again. The way Erin layers in series subject with humour is nothing short of brilliant. Take this audio play for example. You have an older gentleman that just wants some peace, he's dealing with some difficult issues that we come to find out more about through the course of the play, and he's pretty much harassed by his hyperactive nine-year-old neighbour, who is a sweet girl with no boundaries that clearly just wants someone to talk to. They are an unlikely match but watching their friendship grow was beautiful. There were so many laugh out loud moments, but then, you'd be hit in the gut by a revelation that leaves your heart hurting. Add in that the entire play is set on their rooftops, and it is the perfect story in these social distancing times. It perfectly showcases how connections can be made and the affect they can have on a person.
Matilda Lawler and Richard Masur were perfectly cast for the play and reviving their roles for the audio play was not only a good decision but the only one. I can't imagine anyone else giving these characters life the way that these two did. The embodied these characters. The production was wonderful with sound effects that enhance the story.
What a wonderful story. It was fun and sweet. The illustrations really add to the magical aspect of the story and allow the reader/ listener to really visualise what they are reading/ listening about. The story is beautifully written and can be enjoyed by all ages. Narration was perfect for this magical tale.
I've read every book Fiona Cole has written, and I have enjoyed every single one, so I don't say this lightly. I think this is my favourite book yet. The angst and tension were off the charts. Parker and Nova were all the things. It is a slow burn, but you don't really notice because the sexual tension is so good and builds throughout the story. The forbidden aspect of it just adds to the angst. Fiona Cole always writes such beautifully flawed characters that eventually acknowledge those flaws and work to make things right. Her female characters are always so strong, even when they don't realise it themselves. This book is no different. Nova has experienced so much and yet there she is, kicking arse. It has an amazing girl crew that I just want to go hang out with.
It's a fantastic story that I think everyone will love. It has a little someone for everyone.
Five star narration
I really enjoyed this book. There was a moment or two that had me scratching my head and running to my girls to ask about their thoughts but overall it was a really enjoyable story that was sweet and easy to listen to. I loved that the conflict was minimal. It is one of those books that you can listen to in a day when you want something lighthearted to entertain you. The characters were made for one another and their banter was pure perfection.
The narration was spot on. Erin Mallon and Teddy Hamilton were perfectly cast for this audiobook. They really gave these characters life. The production was great with no issues.
There is a bonus epilogue for one of the characters, performed by James Joseph, and I think anyone that loves the British accent will be asking for more. It was a cute epilogue, and I'd have liked to have had a little more of Matthew's story. Just because I find him intriguing and wanted more.
You also get a little taste of future books, and it was fun to hear what is coming next for the side characters that have their own stories coming soon.