Stacked-Up Book Thoughts: 5 Good Books

Oh boy, I certainly jumped right back into reading with a vengeance. It's always a good week when it's filled with books. And reading was made easier with cooler temperatures and lots of rain. What else is there to do but read or do household chores while listening to an audiobook?

Anticipating much less time spent outside, we've started getting the house back in shape for indoor living. We generally work on one room at a time, dealing with the accumulated clutter of the summer and starting with the kitchen. Deep cleaning, as I said, gives me lots of time to listen to audiobooks, so I can barely complain.

On the television, we finished season 1 of Marcella, caught up with Comedians in Cars Getting Coffee, and finished Sharp Objects. I'm not sure what's up next for us, but I like the feeling of having completed at least a few seasons of old shows before starting something new.

Peter Mayle's My Twenty-Five Years in Provence (Knopf, June 26) was a bittersweet read, knowing the author died earlier this year. Long-time Mayle fans will recognize many of the twenty-one stories collected in this volume, though some were new to me, such as his relationship with movie director Ridley Scott (A Good Year) and his thoughts about John Thaw's portrayal in the television show based on A Year in Provence. I also liked Mayle's reaction to being awarded France's Legion d’Honneur. Of course, I loved the descriptions of life in the French countryside and especially the many food and wine references, particularly his introduction to how to drink the French spirit pastis. Mayle's signature sense of humor and astute observations shine, making me a fan all over again. The audiobook was nicely read by John Lee (Random House Audio; 4 hr, 3 min). I appreciated Lee's pronunciations of the French words and his sensitive and thoughtful performance. My full review on the audiobook production will be available through AudioFile magazine.

A big shout-out to my friend Jennifer from Literate Housewife who is not only a real-life friend but one of my trusted sources of audiobook recommendations. She said I would love Her Royal Spyness by Rhys Bowen and read by the wonderful Katherine Kellgren (Audible Studios, 2010, 8 hr, 4 min), and she was right. Set in the United Kingdom in the early years of the Great Depression, this is part sly commentary on the royal/noble set and part mystery and all tons of fun. Despite being thirty-something in line for the throne, Lady Victoria Georgiana Charlotte Eugenie (better known as Georgie), is actually without resources since she's unmarried and no longer feels comfortable living with her brother and his family on the crumbling ancestral estate. Fortunately, she still has a good relationship with her cousin the queen, giving her a certain cachet among the gentry. A secret assignment from the palace and a dead body in her bathtub, are just two of Georgie's worries as she negotiates life in London without a maid. Kellgren's characterizations, accents, and pacing bring the story alive and I found it really hard to stop listening to this audiobook. I may just have to binge listen through this series. (personal copy)

Now that I've read Jacqueline Woodson's Harbor Me (Nancy Paulsen Books, August 28), I can see why it has been getting so much buzz. There are several layers to this middle grade novel, giving it strong crossover appeal to older readers. The book is about a half dozen diverse special-needs sixth graders who become friends after their teacher gives them weekly unsupervised free time in an empty classroom. The kids slowly open up to each other, sharing the burdens of their learning disabilities and home life, including issues with immigration, being poor, and being bullied. On the surface, the novel is a story of friendships, but it also helps readers understand how larger political and social issues (police profiling, for example) have an impact on even the most innocent of our citizens. Because the audiobook was so short (Listening Library; 3 hr, 50 min), I also listened to the full-cast performance of the book. The narrators strengthened my emotional connection to the story, reinforcing the idea that we must all try harder to care for each other. The audiobook ends with a not-to-be missed frank discussion between Woodson and her son about some of the lessons found in the story. (review copies)

Quick Takes on Series

• I also listened to the next In Death book: Witness in Death by J. D. Robb (Brilliance Audio; 11 hr, 22 min), read by Susan Ericksen. This is the 10th book in the series, so reviewing without spoiling the story and finding new things to say are becoming difficult. I'm really impressed with how Robb has managed to keep the books fresh by allowing the characters to grow and change. Not only is Eve and Roarke's relationship reaching a new level but the recurring secondary characters are also blossoming. I'm thoroughly enjoying getting to know each one. Ericksen, as always, delivered consistent, believable characterizations and perfect pacing. (personal copy)
• The second book in the Sean Stranahan series--The Gray Ghost Murders by Kieth McCafferty (Recorded Books, 9 hr, 36 min), read by Rick Holmes, was also a winner. I love the way McCafferty interjects diversity and contemporary issues into his murder mysteries, which are set in some of Montana's best fly-fishing territory. Great characters, good descriptions of the outdoor life, and a multilayered plot make for good listening. I particularly like the references to other authors, from Sparse Grey Hackle to Ivan Doig. Holmes is perfect for this series, tapping into the characters' personalities and letting the humor come through naturally. (personal copy)

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12 New Audiobooks to Add to Your Wish List

I love audiobooks, and that’s no secret. Summertime is listening time, as I work in the garden, take walks, relax on the deck, and generally enjoy the long evenings. This year, my audiobook consumption has been depleted by travel. Still, hitting the road to spend time with friends and family and to see new places is well worth the trade-off.

Fortunately, July is a great month for audiobook fans, and it wasn't easy narrowing down my roundup to just 12 titles. The audiobooks recommended today reflect my own listening tastes and are based on both the author and the narrator. The selections are all adult fiction, and I left off the books that appeared in last week’s diversity roundup.

Grab your earbuds, charge up your phone, and get ready to be entertained. The audiobooks are presented in no particular order; all are scheduled for a July 2018 release.

• What We Were Promised by Lucy Tan (Hachette Audio; ~11 hr) read by Jennifer Lim. Publisher’s summary: “Set in modern Shanghai, a debut by a Chinese-American writer about a prodigal son whose unexpected return forces his newly wealthy family to confront painful secrets and unfulfilled promises.” Why I want to listen: I don’t know much about contemporary Shanghai, and I loved Lim’s performance of Little Fires Everywhere.
• The Shortest Way Home by Miriam Parker (Penguin Audio; ~9½ hr) read by Abby Craden. My summary: A grad student moves to Sonoma wine country to figure out what she really wants out of life. Why I want to listen: I know Miriam and can’t wait to dig in to her debut. I've never listened to Craden, but based on audio clips, I'm willing to give her a chance.
• It All Falls Down by Sheena Kamal (Harper Audio; ~8½ hr) read by Bahni Turpin. Publisher’s summary: “The brilliant, fearless, deeply flawed Nora Watts . . . finds deadly trouble as she searches for the truth about her late father in this immersive thriller that moves from the hazy Canadian Pacific Northwest to the gritty, hollowed streets of Detroit.” Why I want to listen: The novel has been getting high praise and starred reviews, and Turpin is usually a fantastic narrator.
• Spinning Silver by Naomi Novik (Random House Audio; ~18 hr) read by Lisa Flanagan. Publisher’s summary: “A fresh and imaginative retelling of the Rumpelstiltskin fairy tale.” Why I want to listen: I’m a big fan of fairy tale retellings and loved Novik’s Uprooted. Flanagan is sure to build a magical atmosphere.

• A Death in Eden by Keith McCafferty (Recorded Books; ~10 hr) read by Rick Holmes. My summary: The seventh book in a private investigator mystery series set in Montana and combining fly-fishing, murder, and environmental issues. Why I want to listen: I really like this series, and Holmes does a great job bringing the main characters alive for me.
• Clock Dance by Anne Tyler (Random House Audio; ~9 hr) read by Kimberly Farr. My summary: A story of family and a woman's journey of personal growth and change by one of my go-to authors. Why I want to listen: The combination of Tyler and Farr is hard to resist.
• Age of War by Michael J. Sullivan (Recorded Books; ~15hr) read by Tim Gerard Reynolds. Publisher’s summary: “The epic battle between humankind and their godlike rulers finally ignites in the masterful follow-up to Age of Myth and Age of Swords.” Why I want to listen: I love this adult epic fantasy series. Plus, Sullivan’s stories and Reynolds’s delivery is a match made in heaven.
• The Mere Wife by Maria Dahvana Headley (Macmillian Audio; ~9 hr) read by Susan Bennett. Publisher’s summary: “A modern retelling of the literary classic Beowulf, set in American suburbia as two mothers—a housewife and a battle-hardened veteran—fight to protect those they love.” Why I want to listen: I'm curious about a contemporary Beowulf story, and I enjoy Bennett's narrations and never hesitate to listen to her.

• A Double Life by Flynn Berry (Penguin Auido; ~7 hr) read by Fiona Hardingham. Publisher’s summary: “A gripping, intense, stunningly written novel of psychological suspense” that focuses on the long-reaching affects of a murder. Why I want to listen: I like a good thriller, and I like the idea that this one is loosely based on a true story. Hardingham is always a pleasure.
• Mary B by Katherine J. Chen (Random House Audio; ~12 hr) read by Marisa Calin. Publisher’s summary: “The overlooked middle sister in Jane Austen’s Pride and Prejudice casts off her prim exterior and takes center stage in this fresh retelling of the classic novel.” Why I want to listen: I can’t resist a P&P spin-off. Calin is new to me, but clips of her work are appealing.
• She Was the Quiet One by Michele Campbell (Macmillan Audio; ~11 hr) read by January LaVoy. Publisher’s summary: “A riveting new suspense audiobook about privilege, power, and what happens when we let ambition take control.” Why I want to listen: I admit, it's LaVoy who draws me to this book; I love her performances.
• Girls’ Night Out by Liz Fenton and Lisa Steinke (Brilliance Audio; ~10 hr) read by Karen Peakes. Publisher’s summary: “A chilling novel of psychological suspense that will make you think twice about what your best friend may be hiding.” Why I want to listen: Fenton and Steinke are a reliable team and Peakes knows how to deliver up the suspense.

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Stacked-Up Book Thoughts: 4 Short Book Reviews

I had my last busy, busy week of work and then ran full-speed into my annual spring lace-making workshop. Yikes! I think I'm going to need a vacation from my vacation!

I didn't think I'd get much reading or listening time last week, but I ended up finishing two books and and listening to two more. Okay, so one of the audiobooks was only two hours long, but still . . .

I was inside lacing during all the beautiful warm weather and emerged from the workshop just in time for the cold and rain. Oh well, plenty of nice days ahead.

Because last week was kind of crazy, my short reviews are going to be even shorter than normal.

• Mrs. by Caitlin Macy (Little, Brown; Feb. 13): The story revolves around three couples who seem to have little in common beyond the fact that they send their children to the same exclusive preschool in New York's Upper East Side. As we get to know the parents better, we discover layered ties among them, deep secrets, and the pressures of keeping up with the 1-percenters. I didn't connect well to the characters and was less impressed than other reviewers who compared Mrs. to Big Little Lies. You might do better. Vanessa Johansson did a good job narrating the unabridged audiobook (Hachette Audio; 10 hr, 8 min), but her rich, expressive performance couldn't really save the story for me. (freelance assignment)
• Dictionary Stories: Short Fictions and Other Findings by Jez Burrows (Harper Perennial; April 10). Burrows's clever collection of short pieces (including drawings) is composed almost entirely from the sample sentences you find in the dictionary to show how a word is used in context. It's hard to explain, but this book is such a delight for anyone who loves words. My already good relationship with the dictionary has been altered forever. Don't miss this book. Oh I think it'd make a great graduation gift too. (copy provided by the publisher)

• The Creature of the Pines by Adam Gidwitz (Dutton BYR; April 10). This book, the first in the new Unicorn Rescue Society series, is geared for young middle grade readers and offers fun and diverse characters as well as good action-adventure. What if mythical creatures were real and needed humans to save them from trouble? Kids (and their parents) will love timid Elliot and gutsy Uchenna, cheering them on as they save a Jersey Devil from the bad guys. Your big decision will not be whether to read Creature of the Pines but whether to read it in print or on audiobook (Listening Library; 2 hr, 12 min). January LaVoy's absolutely fantastic performance is not to be missed. She created a variety of engaging voices, built the tension, and amped up the action. The print book, though, has some great illustrations: decisions, decisions. (Check out the video for more on the series; auidobook provided by the publisher.)
• Loyalty in Death by J. D. Robb read by Susan Ericksen (Brilliance Audio; 12 hr, 15 min). This ninth in the In Death series was written in 1999 and was slightly creepy, considering it involves massive terrorist bombings in New York City. Although the bad guys are political terrorists and the story is set in the future, it was still kind of eerie to be listening to this book in a post-9/11 environment. Anyway, I still love the characters and their continuing personal growth as much as I like the mysteries and author Robb's vision of the future (including technology). (personal copy)

And finally, here is the promised video:

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8 Audiobooks for Early Spring

My favorite part of spring is that the days are getting longer, which leaves me plenty of evening daylight for walking, yardwork, and (eventually) gardening. Of course, all that outdoor activity is prime time for listening to an audiobook. Despite this week’s snow, I’m optimistic that good weather is just days away. Fortunately, I don’t have to wait for a good audiobook. Here are 8 books for late-March listening.

• I’m looking forward to listening to Laura Thompson’s Agatha Christie: A Mysterious Life (Brilliance Audio; 20 hr, 46 min), read by Pearl Hewitt. This biography of the maven of mysteries is written by an experienced biographer (The Six) and read by an experienced narrator. I think Hewitt’s light British accent and clear diction will pull me in.
• Although I tend to like Anna Quindlen’s nonfiction more than her fiction, it’s hard to resist her new novel, Alternate Side (Brilliance Audio; 7 hr, 40 min), because it’s read by Ellen Archer. Archer’s wide range of voices and engaging delivery is sure to enliven to this story of a family coping with a neighborhood tragedy.
• Kate Rorick’s The Baby Plan (Harper Audio; 11 hr, 18 min) explores three different kinds of twenty-first-century pregnancies. Eva Kaminsky’s fun, expressive narration should bring out both the humor of the story and the frustrations of the women as they face the realities of their upcoming little miracles.
• It’s hard to believe that the Maisie Dobbs series is up to number 14! Narrator Orlagh Cassidy is back to perform To Die but Once by Jacqueline Winspear (Harper Audio; 10 hr, 29 min). Cassidy took over the series at audiobook 3, and fans say she is the voice of Maisie. I love her accents and engaging performances.

• Dennis Boutsikaris and Dagmara Dominczyk team up to perform the heartbreaking Every Note Played by Lisa Genova (Simon & Schuster Audio; 8 hr, 2 min). Boutsikaris and Dominczyk are known for rendering lively dialogue and impactful narrative, skills that should shine in this story of two pianists, a marriage, and a devastating illness.
• I’m a Scott Westerfeld fan and can't wait to listen to his new book, Peeps (Listening Library; 8 hr, 10 min), read by Joshua Swanson. Swason’s youthful voice and good comedic timing will be perfect for this story of a college student who becomes an unwitting vampire maker after encountering a strange woman.
• Women’s relationships, family, and cooking come together in The Recipe Box by Viola Shipman (Macmillan Audio; 10 hr, 18 min), read by Susan Bennett. Bennett is well able to create believable voices for characters of all ages and personalities, which makes it easy for listeners to make strong connections to the story.
• Set in Morocco, Christine Mangan’s Tangerine (Harper Audio; 9 hr, 28 min) is about a marriage, a friendship, life in a strange world, and the deep secrets we all keep. I have faith that veteran narrators Barrie Kreinik and Erin Mallon will build the appropriate unsettling mood for this atmospheric historical novel.

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Stacked-Up Book Thoughts: 3 Good Books

My eye is on the start of spring, which is coming up in a few days. I'm going to ignore the temperatures and the snow flurries and pretend that deck season is right around the corner.

My busy work time is slowing down, and I plan to take advantage of my break by getting in some long walks and reading more in the evenings.

Other than that, nothing much going on around here. We're catching up with Homeland on Showtime and the new David Letterman show (My Next Guest Needs No Introduction) on Netflix.

What I read last week

Only Killers and Thieves by Paul Howarth (Harper, Feb. 6): Put this book on your must-read or must-listen list right now. Set in rural Australia in the 1880s, this is the story of two brothers caught up in something they are too young and too unprepared to understand. Tommy (15 years old) and Billy (16) turn to their unscrupulous neighbor for help in the aftermath of a family tragedy; he gives the boys help but not without a price. From the haunting descriptions of the stark Australian landscape to the fully realized characters and heartbreaking, horrifying action, this book took over my life right from the first sentences:

They stalked the ruined scrubland, searching for something to kill. Two boys, not quite men, tiny in a landscape withered by drought and drenched in unbroken sun.

I know the novel has been described as a kind of western, which might throw some of you off. It’s really a coming-of-age story, and although there is plenty of action, it’s a very character-driven story. My heart went out to the boys, especially Tommy, and I understood their different reactions to what they witnessed and what they did. The unfolding of Only Killers and Thieves will be stronger if you go into the book blind. Try to avoid reading the summary or spoilery reviews. The unabridged audiobook (Harper Audio; 11 hr, 29 min) read by David Linski is so, so good. Linski embodied the characters and helped bring them alive for me. His varied pacing and volume matched the text perfectly, and I was completely won over by his performance. In print (which was my husband’s choice) or in audio, this book will be on many best-of 2018 list. Don’t miss out.

Conspiracy in Death by J. D. Robb (Brilliance Audio; 12 hr, 27 min) read by Susan Ericksen. Seeing as this is the 8th entry in the long series (I think Robb’s up to book 46 now), I don’t have much new to say about these futuristic sci-fi, police procedural, romance mashups except that I really like them. In this outing our homicide detective hero, Eve Dallas, is searching for who or what is behind a series of murders involving organ harvesting. The technology of Dallas’s world is always fascinating, and this book focuses on medical issues as well as a unique lie-detector test. Although the In Death books are gritty, Robb always manages to keep Dallas’s marriage steamy, and the main characters continue to grow and change. The audiobooks are always a treat and are short enough to squeeze in between more recently published books.

Aru Shah and the End of Time by Roshani Chokshi (Disney Hyperion; March 27): If you’re a Rick Riordan fan, you’ll love this new Pandava series, published under his imprint, Rick Riordan Presents. The style of Aru Shah is very much in line with the Percy Jackson books, but this time the story is set in the Hindu universe: the tales, the ancient books, and the gods are Indian and so is our heroine. Twelve-year-old Aru Shah lives on the grounds of a cultural museum in Atlanta, Georgia, where her archaeologist mother is the curator. Aru has free run of the museum, but is told never, ever to light the Lamp of Bharata—if she does, the world will end. Of course, on a dare from snotty classmates, Aru lights the lamp. The world doesn’t end right away, but time freezes. This is when Aru learns who she really is: a reincarnated Pandava warrior and thus a demi-god. With help of Mini (a sister Pandava) and a talking pigeon sidekick, Aru must solve riddles, find the keys to the land of death, fight off demons, and save the world. Humor, fast action, great characters, and tricky puzzles make this a lot of fun to read. Aru and Mini are flawed and sometimes scared; they bicker a little but are ultimately loyal. In the end, they find their inner strengths. Highly recommended for middle grade readers and for diversifying your reading list. I really loved meeting Aru and can’t wait for her next adventures.

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Stacked-Up Book Thoughts: 5 Books for Winter Reading

Last week was the Super Bowl, this week it's the Olympics. I'm afraid I'm going to totally forget what's going on in Victoria (PBS), Frontier (Netflix), and whatever else we were watching.

I've started my annual period of working 10-hour days, 7 days a week, so watching a little ice skating, curling, or skiing makes for good escape. I usually don't get a lot of reading done in February and March, but you wouldn't know if from this week. How I managed to get through 5 books is a mystery.

Here are my thoughts on last week's books.Completely unplanned, I picked two boarding school books. One I listened to, and one I read. (Thanks to the publishers for all the review copies, print and audio, except the JD Robb audio, which I bought.)

People Like Us by Dana Mele (Putnam, Feb. 27): Our protagonist, Kay, was not born to be an It Girl, but her family sends her to the prestigious Bates Academy after her best friend committed suicide and her brother died after being hit by a car. There she thrives as one of the most popular girls. But after she and her group discover the body of one of their own floating in the lake, Kay's life spins out of control: she's suddenly the victim of blackmail and is being manipulated into carrying out a revenge plot to destroy the lives of the other cool girls. This was a fast-paced double mystery (whodunit and what's Kay secret) and has all the good parts of a prep school thriller plus a couple unexpected twists. I went back and forth in guessing who could be trusted and who was telling the truth and thought the ending was very cleverly done. The LBGTQ characters were handled casually and naturally. I listened to the unabridged audiobook (Listening Library; 9 hr, 18 min), read by Erin Spenser. She did a fine job with the teenage voices--both male and female--and she delivered on Kay's full range of emotions.

S.T.A.G.S. by M. A. Bennett (Delacorte Press, Jan. 2018): Greer, not to the manor born, has earned a scholarship to St. Aidan the Great School (STAGS), the oldest school in England. With her northern accent and working-class background, Greer has no friends at her new school and is especially isolated because STAGS is an anti-technology institution: no television, no cellphones, no Internet, no laptops. That means she can't text her dad or call her old mates. When she's invited to join the cool kids on a weekend outing to one of their estates (think Downton Abbey or Brideshead), she says yes, even though she knows absolutely nothing about the "huntin' shootin' fishing' " promised by engraved invitation. Turns out two other plebeians were also asked to join in. Need I say that the visit is anything but a relaxed outdoorsmen (outdoorsperson) adventure? Greer soon learns the sinister side of upper-class privilege and finds herself in a deadly game of survival. Lots of things to like in this thriller, including Greer's down-to-earth but realistic reactions to the snooty kids at STAGS and her many pop movie references. Vivid descriptions of the estate and suitably creepy servants add to the atmosphere, and the plot includes a few surprises. A worthy entry in the prep school thriller genre.

The Stowaway by Laurie Gwen Shapiro (Simon & Schuster, Jan. 2018): I'm not sure what I was expecting from this true story of a teenage boy who attempted to stowaway on one of the ships Richard Byrd was taking to explore Antarctica in the late 1920s, but I ended up wanting something more. Billy Gawronski, son of a Polish upholsterer, yearned for an adventurous life. He sneaked aboard ship three times before Byrd, and Billy's father, agreed to let the boy join the expedition. The well-researched book goes into Billy's family history, life on the ship, and how the explorers used the boy for good publicity. Although the focus is on Billy, we also learn a little bit about three other men in Byrd's crew: a Jewish aviation mechanic, a black stowaway, and an Eagle Scout. America fell in love with Billy--the plucky kid who wouldn't take no for an answer--but their interest faded with the deepening economic depression after the mission was completed. The book ends by telling us about Billy's involvement in World War II and his later life. Shapiro is a good writer and tells a compelling story, but I'm not sure there was enough material here for a whole book. Still, I was happy to get to know Billy Gawronski, and I'm glad Shapiro brought him back into the spotlight. I alternated reading and listening to this book. The unabridged audiobook (Simon & Schuster Audio; 6 hr, 27 min) was nicely read by Jacques Roy, whose soft, straightforward delivery kept my interest and suited the book. His Polish accent sounded believable to me, but I'm not sure I'd know the difference.

I also listened to the unabridged audiobook of J. D. Robb's Holiday in Death (Brilliance Audio, 1998; 10 hr, 21 min) read by Susan Eriksen. Eve Dallas, murder investigator for a futuristic New York City, is tasked with finding the link between a deadly Santa and a dating service. I got fooled by some of the red herrings and will be looking askance at men in Santa suits from now on. I continue to enjoy Eve's relationship with the very sexy (and rich) Rourke and am happy to see their marriage strengthen. I had to laugh at Eve's take on the whole holiday shopping phenomenon; apparently nothing really changes in the future. I also liked seeing what her assistant, Peabody, was like when she wasn't on duty. I'm seven books in and am still looking forward to reading the rest of the series. At this point, I don't think I can think of more things to say about Eriken's narration. Just believe me that audiobooks are the way to go for the In Death series.

Tyrell Johnson's The Wolves of Winter (Scribner, Jan. 2018) is a mashup of thriller and dystopian. Set in the not-too-distant future (and kind of spookily believable), worldwide nuclear war is brought to a halt by a deadly flu pandemic. The McBride family has moved from small town Alaska to the wilds of the Yukon to hide: from the flu, from marshal law, and from the U.S. government. Besides one unsavory neighbor, 23-year-old Gwendolynn (Lynn) has seen only family for years, so when she spots a harmless-looking man and his dog in the woods one day, she succumbs to loneliness and invites him home. Naturally, her family is upset and suspicious--good survivalist instincts in a world gone haywire. That one chance meeting sets off a series of events that change all of their lives forever. This novel is full of adventure, beautiful descriptions of the northern woods, and realistic scenes involving a family that must stick together or die. The truth of the stranger's background, the journey through the snow, Lynn's conflicted feelings, and the family's decisions all ring true. You don't have to be a dystopian fan to find a lot to love in this novel, which is more Station 11 or the Dog Stars than it is Hunger Games or Pure. I highly recommended this novel.

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Stacked-Up Book Thoughts: All Audiobooks, All the Time

Thank goodness for a little milder weather over the weekend. Even though I didn't have much time to get out and enjoy it, I was happy to see some of the snow melt.

Although I am a lifelong Vikings fan, my husband grew up in the Philadelphia area, and I've been living in Pennsylvania for ages, so it was easy to cheer on the Eagles to their Super Bowl chance. Now I'm really looking forward to February: Super Bowl Sunday and then the Olympics!

I'm just entering my busy editing season, so I'm again very grateful for audiobooks. I finished four (one was only an hour!) and started another.

Tomorrow I'm giving away a copy of JoJo Mayes's new book, Still Me, to someone with a USA mailing address. I'm in the middle of reading (in print) Louisa's adventures in New York, and I'm loving every minute.

What I Listened To

Continuing on with J. D. Robb's Eve Dallas series, I listened to Vengeance in Death. In this one, murder comes very close to home: the victims are all people Eve's husband, Rourke, knew during his misspent youth. What's worse, the killer is trying to make it look like Rourke's friend and right-hand man Somerset is to blame. Eve and her police team, with some help from Rourke himself, must solve this one quickly. In some ways this book is a transition story: Eve and Rourke's relationship begins to solidify, we learn more about Somerset and Rourke's past and why they're devoted to each other. We're also introduced to a new character: police techy Ian McNab. I'm guessing we see more of him in future books. As always (phew!) Susan Eriksen is the narrator of the unabridged audiobook (Brillance Audio; 11 hr, 19 min). Eriksen is super with this series, nailing Eve's blend of toughness and fragility. I'm sure I'll soon run out of insightful things to say about her performance, but I doubt I'll stop enjoying it. (bought)

My next audiobook could possibly be one of my favorite books in a long time, and will likely make by 2018 top ten list. The Great Alone by Kristin Hannah (St. Martin's Press, Feb. 6). In the 1970s a struggling family moves to Alaska after Ernt is bequeathed a homestead from a fellow Vietnam POW who didn't make it home. The three of them arrive in a VW bus totally unprepared to face the harsh landscape. With the help of their neighbors, Cora, Ernt, and their 13-year-old daughter, Leni, prepare for the long winter. But Cora and Leni have more to fear than grizzlies and the cold, Ernt, suffering from undiagnosed PTSD (not well understood back then), has a hair-trigger temper and takes his furry out on his wife. The small community is aware of the abuse, but the courts in the 70s aren't supportive of beaten women. The tension and foreboding are perfectly built, and my heart went out to Leni, a girl who grew up too fast and little room to think about herself. Hannah's novel is much more than a story about domestic violence, it is also a love story to stark and beautiful Alaska. Those who live in the northern wilderness must be ever vigilant because their land is unforgiving. You may be able to survive one mistake, but rarely two; let your guard down for a second and all could be lost. The unabridged audiobook (Macmillan Audio) was read by Julia Whelan, who is brilliant. She gave each person a distinct voice and so beautifully worked the pacing that I could barely turn off the book. My full audiobook review will be available through AudioFile magazine, but don't miss this one.

Spin: The Rumpelstiltskin Musical is an audiobook original that I just loved. What a fantastic production of storytelling and singing with a full cast led by Jim Dale. This short audiobook (Harper Audio, 1 hr, 28 min) is a delight, and you and your family will be singing along with Rumpelstiltskin in no time. The story itself is a fun update to the original tale, and I loved the young king and his stepsisters (because every fairy tale must have stepsisters!). This is an audiobook to share with your kids, especially on a rainy or cold day or a short driving trip, but it's also perfect for adults. Each member of the full cast of performers is wonderful. You'll feel as if you were at the theater and will be spellbound from start to finish. The story has some grim (ha!) moments, but remains lighthearted and the contemporary elements will make you smile. The transformation of the stepsisters is a delight, and you'll love getting to know what drives Rumpelstiltskin to make his bargain with the poor girl who is tasked with spinning straw into gold. Spin gets my highest recommendation, and I truly hope the production team, Hvam Audio and Sammy Smile Music, is planning more modern musical fairy tales. (review copy)

I also listened to Timekeeper by Tara Sim. This is a genre-blending novel that contains elements of alternate history, steampunk, and speculative fiction and has a gay protagonist. In a different sort of London, 17-year-old Danny is a clock mechanic, which is a much more important position than it is in our world. Time is a living thing, and unless the mechanics keep the big clock towers running smoothly and in sync, human lives would be chaos. Danny is the youngest master clock mechanic ever, but he seems to have a natural talent for steadying time and helping the world flow smoothly. But ever since he was a victim to a violent accident--one of the clocks he was working on exploded--he's been a little nervous at work. When a second explosion kills a mechanic, it's clear that someone is out to sabotage time. Danny has a vested interest in solving the crimes and figuring out how to restore fatally broken clocks: his father, also a clock mechanic, has been stuck in time, trapped in a town with a destroyed clock tower. Without the powerful clock, the townsfolk must live the same moment over and over forever. Besides the mystery of the broken clocks and warped time, Danny is learning to live with being openly gay, experiences his first love, and discovers something surprising about time itself. A promising start to a new trilogy that features diversity and solid world building in a fresh setting. The unabridged audiobook (Forever Young Audiobooks; 8 hr, 48 min), was read by Gary Furlong. It took me about 30 minutes to warm up to his performance, but then it clicked for me. Furlong did a good job distinguishing among characters and picking up on their personalities and ages--for both males and females. I also appreciated that both Furlong's delivery and Sim's writing presented Danny's sexuality in a matter-of-fact manner: no stereotypes here. The book is complex and a little difficult to explain without spoiling the surprises, but I definitely recommend this first in series. (bought)

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Stacked-Up Book Thoughts: 6 Books to Finish Out the Year

Happy New Year, everyone! New year, fresh starts, second chances.

It's been a couple of weeks since I posted reviews (thanks to the holidays), but that doesn't mean I haven't been reading and listening. Because many of you are taking advantage of the day--watching football, taking down the Christmas decorations, sleeping in, getting organized for the new year--and because I have a number of books to talk about, I'm going to try to keep my thoughts briefer than normal.

I'm looking forward to getting back to the rhythm of regular life.

My Last Books of 2017

• Library at the Edge of the World by Felicity Hayes-McCoy (Harper Perennial, Oct. 2017) was a fun, light book about a middle-aged woman finding the courage to step out of her comfort zone. I liked the Irish small-town setting and was happy that the plot had a twist or two to keep things interesting. This contemporary story would appeal to readers who like women's fiction and/or quirky characters. The unabridged audiobook (Dreamscape Media; 9 hr, 42 min) was nicely read by Emma Lowe, whose light accent added to the atmosphere of the novel. (full audiobook review will be published by AudioFile magazine)
• I can't tell you how much I loved The Immortalists by Chloe Benjamin (Putnam, Jan. 9, 2018). The novel explores what happens after four New York children visit a fortune teller who tells each of them, privately, the exact date of his or her death. The story reveals how each sibling's life plays out and how each is affected by the old woman's predictions. I couldn't put this book down and ended up both reading and listening because I just had to know what happened to the characters and how the choices they made were influenced by their childhood visit to the Romany. Maggie Hoffman narrated the audiobook (Penguin Audio; 11 hr, 29 min) beautifully. I liked her pacing and her characterizations and appreciated the fact that she didn't foreshadow the ending. Don't miss this one! (review copies provided by the publisher)

• I had the good fortune to meet Danish author Sara Blaedel a few years ago at BookExpo America. Although I liked her and I love Denmark, for some reason I never got around to reading her books. This month, the first three books in her Louise Rick series are being re-issued in print and audio under new titles. I took this as a sign to finally read Blaedel. The Night Women (Grand Central Publishing, Jan. 2, 2018) was an intense mystery that involved abandoned babies, young women in trouble, and human trafficking from eastern European countries. The characters and plotting were tight, and I liked mix of perspectives: Louise's take as a police officer and her BFF Camilla's thoughts as a newspaper crime reporter. I listened to the unabridged audiobook (Hachette Audio; 10 hr, 21 min) read by Christine Lakin. I normally really like Lakin, but her performance this time was a miss for me. The book takes place in Copenhagen and involved Danish and Slavic characters, but Lakin's accents were British, American, and maybe Irish. I would have rather had no accents than a mix of accents that made no particular sense. Because I requested all three audiobooks from the audiobook publisher, I thought I'd give Lakin a second chance with The Running Girl, but after a couple of hours, I decided to set it aside and wait to read the novel in print. I was caught up in the mystery of The Running Girl and am looking forward to finding out how it all plays out..

• I continued with my re-read of Genevieve Cogman's Invisible Library series by listening to The Masked City (Audible Studios; 10 hr, 39 min), read by Susan Duerden. I know I said that I didn't love Duerden's performance of the first book in the series, but I gave her another chance. Either I became accustomed to her delivery or she improved because I listened to this audiobook straight through. If you haven't yet listened to or read this genre mash-up (alternate history, time bending, fantasy, steampunk) centered on a powerful library, you should add the books to your list. This is an adult series with adult characters and no angst-filled teenage love triangles. In this installment, our librarian hero and her not-quite human assistant face a deadly challenge. (audiobook purchased)
• Finally, I spent all of Saturday cooking and cleaning and organizing for our annual New Year's Eve dinner party with friends. I started listening to J. D. Robb's Ceremony in Death (Brilliance; 10 hr, 32 min) in the morning and finished just as I was about to collapse for the evening. It's been several years since I listened to the first four books in the Eve Dallas series and was pleasantly surprised that I could jump right back in and not feel lost. Phew. I was equally happy to still love Susan Ericksen as narrator. She is the voice of this series. The Eve Dallas series is another one that blends genres; in this case it's romance, science fiction, and police procedural mystery. The books are set in a future New York City, and I love the characters, the technology, and the plotting. In this outing (the 5th book in the series), Eve is investigating a number of bizarre murders that may or may not involve drugs, Wiccan beliefs, devil worship, or extreme sexual practices. As always, Eve's personal life is as much of a focus as is the murder mystery, but these books are by no means cozies; there's as much violence as there is hot sex. (audiobook purchased)

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Stacked-Up Book Thoughts: Holiday Weekend Reading

North America is partying! Happy Canada Day and/or Fourth of July. Many of us had long weekends with plenty of time to relax, be with family and friends, and (duh!) to read.

Although I have had to split some of my free time with cooking ahead for our annual July 4 party, I did manage to spend a few hours with my books. You can't beat audio for keeping you company while you straighten the house, work in the kitchen, or do some gardening. Plus the weather has also been perfect for sitting on the deck with a book (or tablet). Yay for holidays!

What I Read

• The Hundred Thousand Kingdoms by N. K. Jemisin (Orbit, 2010). I discovered Jemisin just last year and decided to give her backlist a try. This book is the first installment in her Inheritance Trilogy and is, I believe, her debut novel. The plot explores what happens when humans have a way to control (or, really, enslave) the gods. Of course, only some people are granted such power, and those same people have also enslaved "lesser" humans. When Yeine's estranged and aging grandfather brings her to court to compete for a chance to inherit the throne, she gets a firsthand look at just how cruel unlimited power can be. Although the novel is not as tight as Jemisin's more recent books, it is an admirable debut. The concept is unique, and the plot holds a few surprises. I liked the way the gods were portrayed, but not all characters were fully fleshed out. The book did not end on a true cliffhanger, which means it can be read as a standalone with a satisfying conclusion. This is a good thing, because I'm not sure I'll continue with the trilogy. The unabridged audiobook (Brilliance; 11 hr, 46 min) was read by Casaundra Freeman, who was generally expressive and engaging. Some of her characterizations were slightly inconsistent, but the audiobook is still worth the listen.
• The City of the Lost by Kelley Armstrong (Minotaur Books, 2016). I love Armstrong, so I'm not sure why I haven't read her Rockton series yet. Our hero, Casey, is a police detective with lots of personal baggage and a best friend, Diana, with even more issues. When Diana's life is endangered by her abusive, stalking ex-husband, the two apply for refuge in a secret town in the wilds of the Yukon to hide out for a few years until they can reenter society. They are accepted because the town is in great need of good law enforcement in the wake of a couple of murders and one disappearance. From this premise, we meet the townsfolk, learn their backstories, and get a feel for life in a very isolated community. Armstrong is great at creating unforgettable characters, and her plotting of this thriller / mystery is nicely done. I can't wait to read the next in the series. The unabridged audiobook (Macmillian; 13 hr, 47 min) was skillfully read by Therese Plummer. She tapped into the personalities of the characters and her pacing was spot-on. Highly recommended audiobook.
• When the English Fall by David Williams (Algonquin, 2017): I really liked the premise of this novel: after a solar flare takes down most of the grid, leaving people without electricity, money, and food, the Pennsylvania Amish live life as they always have, suffering very few inconveniences. That is, until the English (outsiders) remember the Amish have food and supplies and begin to violently invade their homes. The novel is written in the form of diary entries by an Amish man who recounts the days leading up to and then after the event, noting the weather, his family's activities, and news of his neighbors. While I enjoyed the story, especially because I live in Pennsylvania and recognized many of the towns mentioned in the book, I was not wowed by it. I think I wanted more, and the diary format couldn't provide it. I don't want to give spoilers, but there was one plot line involving his daughter that didn't seem complete to me, I was confused by the fate of another character near the end, and I had questions about the effects of the solar flare. It's important to note, however, that this novel has won starred reviews and much buzz, so maybe it was just me or my mood. (Algonquin provided a review copy.)

What I'm Reading Now

• The Purple Swamp Hen and Other Stories by Penelope Lively (Viking, 2017). This is a short story collection that I'm listening to for a freelance assignment. I love the narrator, Davina Porter, but I'm not sure this book is going to be for me. I'll let you know.
• The Essex Serpent by Sarah Perry (Custom House, 2017). This novel is totally holding my attention. I think it might be one of favorites so far this year. Hope it holds up.

A Trio of Fun Links

• 11 Books on Science Bill Gates Thinks Everyone Should Read (from Business Insider)
• 6 Life Changing Lessons for Creatives from Neil Gaiman (from the Mission)
• Writers to Watch Fall 2017: Anticipated Debuts (from Publishers Weekly)

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Sound Recommendations: Audiobooks for Spring Listening

Fool Me Once by Harlan Coben: Coben is known for creating tense and twisty thrillers, and fans will like this standalone novel about the investigation of a high-profile New York City murder. Iraq War veteran Maya Burkett, already suffering from PTSD, was the only witness to her husband's death. Despite her frail psyche, she seems determined to help find the shooter. The deeper she digs, however, the more secrets she uncovers, making her question how well she knew her husband. I had a few issues with the way the clues were revealed, but otherwise I enjoyed the book. Audiobook: January LaVoy's expressive performance and good pacing make this a recommended audiobook (Brilliance; 10 hr, 5 min).

The Widow by Fiona Barton: This multilayered mystery/thriller involves the investigation of the disappearance of a little girl from her suburban London garden. Told from several viewpoints, the story touches on issues of marriage, ambition, parenthood, the press, and child pornography. Despite the difficult subject, I liked this novel all the way up to the end. To avoid spoilers, I'll just say I thought there were some unrealistic aspects to the last chapter. Audiobook: Narrators Hannah Curtis and Nicholas Guy Smith head the cast of this audiobook. Each performer captured the personality of his or her character, keeping my attention throughout. Don't hesitate to listen (Penguin Audio; 10 hr, 24 min).

The Madwoman Upstairs by Catherine Lowell: I can't say enough good things about this novel centered on a kind of literary treasure hunt trough modern-day Oxford and the books of the Bronte family. It was just plain fun to read about the trials and tribulations of Samantha Whipple, last surviving Bronte descendant. Between rising above her unconventional upbringing, dealing with people from her late-father's past, and discovering her own passions, Samantha has one heck of a first year at college. Audiobook: Narrator Katie Koster couldn't have done a better job portraying Samantha and tapping into the soul of this novel. Truly a don't-miss audiobook (Blackstone; 11 hr, 52 min).

NOTE: My full audiobook reviews of these titles will be available through AudioFile magazine.

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Review: What We Lost in the Dark by Jacquelyn Mitchard

I discovered Jacquelyn Mitchard way back in 1996, when I read her debut novel, The Deep End of the Ocean, a powerful book that has stayed with me all these years. Since then, she has continued to write in a range of genres and for a wide audience, from adult fiction to picture books.

Last year, I featured Mitchard's What We Saw at Night, the first in planned duo about teens who suffer from xeroderma pigmentosum (XP), a rare genetic disorder that makes them fatally allergic to the sun. Told from the first-person perspective of Allie Kim, who can leave the house only after sunset, that book introduced us to the extreme sport of parkour and ended with a major cliffhanger.

What We Lost in the Dark picks up right where the previous installment ended. This bullet review assumes you've read the first book.

• Basic plot: Allie and Rob are still stunned over Juliet's apparent suicide, although Allie is convinced that foul play was involved. With their hearts no longer in parkour because it reminds them of their friend, the two teens take up deep-water free diving (without oxygen tanks) while trying to gather evidence against the man they believe killed their friend.
• What works: Allie and Rob's relationship, which would seem too intense for most YA books, is made believable when you consider that people with XP die young. The two are determined to get as much out of life as they can, while remaining hopeful that genetic engineering may eventually offer a cure for their condition. In addition, there is plenty of thriller action and some seriously creepy scenes.
• What doesn't: I found the number of coincidences needed to pull off the plot to be a bit hard to take. For example, while on her initial dive in Lake Superior, Allie just happens to discover a prime piece of evidence against the bad guy. There is also strong foreshadowing, which meant I was able to guess some of the surprises revealed at the novel's conclusion.
• Recommendation: If you've read the first book, you'll want to read What We Lost in the Dark to see what happens. If you keep your expectations in check, you'll enjoy this novel more than I did.
• Audiobook: My full review will be published by AudioFile magazine, but in a nutshell, narrator Rebecca Gibel didn't hold my attention. I was not a fan of the tone of her performance, although other listeners thought her voice was perfect for Allie. (Blackstone Audio; 8 hr 12 min)

Soho Press / Soho Teen, 2013
ISBN-13: 9781616951436
Source: Audio: review (see review policy)
Copyright © cbl for Beth Fish Reads, all rights reserved (see review policy)

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Best Audiobooks from 2013

It's time for my best-of 2013 lists! I will post four this year. Today's is all about audiobooks, tomorrow is adult books, Saturday is food and cookbooks, and Monday is middle grade and young adult. Enjoy!

A note on my selections: The following unabridged audiobooks made my list based on the narrator's skill and other aspects of the production. The books themselves may not make my other lists but came alive for me as audiobooks. Books are presented alphabetically by title; links lead to my reviews or thoughts (here or at AudioFile magazine).

• Sarah Dunant's Blood & Beauty: The Borgias read by Edoardo Ballerini (Random House Audio), historical fiction, adult
• Helene Wecker's The Golem and the Jinni read by George Guidall (HarperAudio), historical fiction & mysticism/fantasy, adult
• Maggie O'Farrell's Instructions for a Heatwave read by John Lee (Random House Audio), historical fiction (late 20th century), adult

• Robin Maxwell's Mademoiselle Boleyn read by Suzan Crowley (Brilliance Audio), historical fiction, adult
• Neil Gaiman's The Ocean at the End of the Lane read by Neil Gaiman (HarperAudio), fantasy/magical, for everyone top listen of the year
• Curtis Sittenfeld's Sisterland read by Rebecca Lowman (Random House Audio), adult

• Sara Pennypacker's Summer of Gyspy Moths read by Jenna Lamia (Listening Library), contemporary fiction, middle grade
• Emily Croy Barker's The Thinking Woman's Guide to Real Magic read by Alyssa Bresnahan (Recorded Books), fantasy, adult
• Janice Steinberg's The Tin Horse read by Kate McGregor-Stewart (Random House Audio), contemporary fiction, adult
• Wendy Wax's While We Were Watching Downton Abbey read by Orlagh Cassidy (Penguin Audio), contemporary fiction, adult

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Bullet Review: The Valley of Amazement by Amy Tan

One of my favorite writers of historical fiction is Amy Tan. I think I've read all her fiction (except her children's books) and have always wanted to read her nonfiction. What's more, I'm fairly sure that her Joy Luck Club was pretty much the first book on tape I listened to, so you know I have a fondness for her work.

When I was given the chance to listen to her newest novel, The Valley of Amazement, I couldn't wait to get started. This book takes us to turn-of-the-twentieth-century Shanghai, a time of political and social change in China, and focuses on one Tan's favorite themes: the relationships between mothers and daughters.

• Principal plot: This is the story of Chinese-American Violet Minturn who grew up in her American mother's high-class courtesan house in Shanghai in the early 1900s. When she was barely a teen, Violet was separated from her mother through a betrayal and forced into a courtesan's life, while her mother was on a ship to San Francisco. The novel follows Violet's journey as she adapts to her new life, balances her dual heritage, searches for love, and comes to terms with her mother.
• Three voices: The majority of The Valley of Amazement is told through Violet's eyes. Although she is determined, smart, and resourceful, Violet is not always a likeable character and has a tendency for self-centeredness. Magic Gourd offers the perspective of an older courtesan who accepted her lot in life more easily than did Violet; she is street smart and takes the young girl under her wing. Lucia, Violet's mother, who has trained herself to rein in her emotions, reveals her own difficult past, life choices, and losses.
• General thoughts: Despite the focus on mothers and daughters and intergenerational conflict, this wasn't Amy Tan's strongest work. My main issue is that neither Violet nor her mother is a sympathetic character, and I found it difficult to root for them. In addition, because much of Magic Gourd's chapters and the fascinating information about the courtesan life first appeared in Tan's Rules for Virgins (published a couple of years ago), the story didn't feel fresh to me. On the other hand, I was interested in the changing social and political climate of Shanghai after the fall of the Ching Dynasty, and it's clear that Tan did her research.
• Audiobook: The unabridged audiobook (Brilliance Audio; 24 hr, 51 min) had three narrators: Nancy Wu read Violet's chapters, Amy Tan herself read Magic Gourd's, and Joyce Bean read Lucia's. Unfortunately, the narrators' performances were not strong enough to keep me invested in the novel. (My full audiobook review will be published by AudioFile magazine.)

HarperCollins / Ecco, 2013
ISBN-13: 9780062107312
Source: Review (audio) (see review policy)
Copyright © cbl for Beth Fish Reads, all rights reserved (see review policy)

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Today's Read: The Girl Who Circumnavigated Fairyland in a Ship of Her Own Making by Catherynne M. Vaente

Imagine you were a lonely farm girl with a vivid imagination who wished for the types of adventures you find in story books. What would happen if your wishes came true? September is about to find out.

Once upon a time, a girl named September grew very tired indeed of her parents' house, where she washed the same pink-and-yellow teacups and matching gravy boats every day, slept on the same embroidered pillow, and played with the same small and amiable dog. Because she had been born in May, and because she had a mole on her left cheek, and because her feet were very large and ungainly, the Green Wind took pity on her and flew to her window one evening just after her twelfth birthday. He was dressed in a green smoking jacket, and a green carriage-driver's cloak, and green jodhpurs, and green snowshoes. It is very cold above the clouds in the shantytowns where the Six Winds live.

—The Girl Who Circumnavigated Fairyland in a Ship of Her Own Making by Catherynne M. Valente (Macmilian Childrens / Feiwel & Friends, 2011, p. 1)

Quick Facts

• Setting: Nebraska and Fairyland
• Circumstances: September is given a chance to visit Fairyland, where she meets strange, yet friendly, creatures; makes friends; solves puzzles; learns the rules, and goes on quests
• Characters: September, 12 years old from Nebraska; the Green Wind, who rides a flying leopard; Ell a Wyverary (a kind of dragon); Saturday, a Marid boy; plus witches and weres, a marquess, a key, and more
• Genre & audience: fairy story, magic, adventure, fantasy; middle grade and up
• What I loved; September is realistic, brave, and kind; the references to other fantasies and fairy tales; the terrific world building; the humor; the sheer fun of this novel
• Miscellaneous: first in a series (yay!); won the Andre Norton Award; was a Publishers Weekly Best Children's Fiction title for 2011; has awesome illustrations by Ana Juan
• Audiobook thoughts: the unabridged audiobook (Brilliance Audio; 7 hr, 17 min) was read by the author. Although Valente didn't have the polish of a professional, her performance was well done and reflected her obvious love of and familiarity with her characters and world

ISBN-13: 9780312649616
Copyright © cbl for Beth Fish Reads, all rights reserved (see review policy).

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Sound Recommendations: Five Great Audiobook Productions

Because I've been so busy with work lately, I've been craving audiobooks and going through them like crazy. I recently discovered (no laughing, I'm so slow on the uptake) that when I put audiobooks on my phone, I can remove the headphones and just listen through the phone's speakers. That means I've found some extra time to listen to books, and I don't have to worry about whether I'm damaging my hearing.

This week's Sound Recommendations cover urban fantasy, paranormal, literary fiction, and middle grade fiction. I feel funny using the word recommendations because the first two mini-reviews aren't all that positive about the novels, but I did love the audio productions.

Carrie Jones's pixies series (I already reviewed Need and Captivate) takes place in rural Maine. The quartet started out strong as the teenage Zara (living with her grandmother after her father's untimely death) discovers that the world around us is not as benevolent as it appears. In fact, wicked pixies are out to destroy humankind and were-animals roam the Maine forests. Unfortunately, the final books didn't hold up to the initial potential of the series as Zara and her allies--humans, weres, an elf, and good pixies--take on the challenge to save the world and find true love at the same time. Entice (8 hr, 30 min) and Endure (8 hr, 31 min) were both produced by Brilliance Audio and read by Julian Whelan who does a fantastic job projecting the excitement and action of the plot as well as the conflicting and changing feelings of deep love Zara has for her were-boyfriend and her pixie king. If you like young adult urban fantasy, you'll probably enjoy Zara's story. Excellent audio productions, even if not my favorite series.

There has been a lot of controversy over the last Sookie Stackhouse book, Dead Ever After (10 hr, 11 min). Let me tell you right now, I'm in the camp with the disappointed. First, all the previous books in the series are told through Sookie's eyes, which adds to the fun. This installment deviates from that formula a bit; in fact, when I started listening, I had to check my phone to make sure I had downloaded the correct title--that's how startling the difference was. Second, I felt that Charlaine Harris took the easy way out of finding a way to tie up the series. Some characters were simply sent away, several got married or had babies, and Sookie realized that a good friend might hold the key to her future. As I mentioned the other day, I thought the series was going downhill and I'm not sorry to see it end. I am, however, sorry that the last installment is such a poor entry. The good news is that Johanna Parker once again narrated the Recorded Books audiobook edition. She is such a joy to listen to that I almost forgot how mad I was at Harris.

In 1976, in the midst of an unrelenting heatwave, Robert Riordan walks out of his house and fails to return. His wife calls their grown children, who all return home to help find their father. Each family member has at least one closely held secret (some big, some not), and as they search for Robert, their pasts and presents come bubbling up to the surface. Maggie O'Farrell's Instructions for a Heatwave (9 hr, 11 min) is a beautifully written novel about the underside of families, revealing the complex relationships between siblings and parents and how each person recalls shared events from a totally different perspective. Although Robert's disappearance is at the core of the story, this is not a mystery. It's a look at how one family balances personal and mutual crises during a time of changing mores and the decreasing influence of the Church. John Lee is brilliant as the narrator of the Random House Audio production. His characterizations are spot-on, and his lyrical cadence is a perfect match for O'Farrell's prose. (My full audiobook review will be available from AudioFile Magazine.)

Sara Pennypacker's Summer of Gyspy Moths (6 hr, 28 min) transports us to a Cape Cod summer, when twelve-year-old Stella is sent to live with her great-aunt Louise. Stella's mother is flighty, to put it kindly, always heading off on a new adventure and sometimes forgetting that she has daughter. After only one month with her aunt, however, Stella is starting to let down her guard. All would be perfect except for the foster kid, Angel, who is as prickly and stand-offish as can be. So much for Louise's hope that the girls would be friends. One day the girls come home from school to discover their lives have once again been turned upside down. Will they be able to make a truce and work together to stay in the Cape Cod house? This is a charming story of how two young girls try to find happiness and stability in a world that hasn't been kind to them. You can't help but love their spunk and determination and their growing friendship, despite their many differences. Both middle grade readers and adults will root for Stella and want to race through the book to see what happens. Jenna Lamia, one of my favorite narrators, reads the Listening Library edition of the novel. Stella's story is tailor-made for Lamia, who conveys the preteen's hopes, fears, and frustrations perfectly. This is a don't-miss listen for readers of all ages.

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