12 Audiobooks: What I've Listened to This Summer

Here's what I've read since my last check-in. All books were received for review or for a freelance assignment unless otherwise indicated. Where you see "AFM," please check out my full audiobook review on the AudioFile Magazine website. Also note that I've given fuller treatment to some of these titles over on Goodreads. Also note that I listened to all of these titles. I miss print/digital reading, but audios are what works for now.

Before I get into my brief thoughts on the dozen books I listened to since my last post, I want to mention one that I didn't finish. While I really liked the first book in the Aurora Cycle series, I ultimately turned off Aurora Burning. It may be my mood, it may be a case of sophomore slump for the authors, but I just didn't care enough to find out what happens to the characters. Note that I normally love Amie Kaufman and Jay Kristoff, so blame the DNF on me. The narrators were Kim Mai Guest, Johnathan McClain, Lincoln Hoppe, Donnabella Mortel, Jonathan Todd Ross, Erin Spencer, and Steve West, and they all did a fine job. The performances were not the issue. (Listening Library; 15 hr, 16 min).

• Wandering Strange Lands by Morgan Jerkins (author read; HarperAudio; 8 hr, 3 min): In this memoir, the author sets out to search for her roots and along the way discusses the Great Black Migration north, myths and traditions, food and customs, and more that connect and disconnect Black Americans from each other and their ancestors. Adequately read by the author.
• The Golden Cage by Camilla Lackberg (read by Ann Richardson; Random House Audio; 11 hr, 2 min): This is a standalone thriller that focuses on a woman who is out to seek revenge on her husband who has done her wrong. A few good twists. I like Lackberg's main series better, but this is a good listen. Richardson does well with the accents and builds the tension.
• Death of Yesterday by M.C. Beaton (read by Graeme Malcolm; Grand Central; 5 hr, 36 min): The 28th installment in the Hamish Macbeth series still doesn't disappoint. I was, however, unhappy that I downloaded a "Booktrack" version of the audiobook. Malcolm's delivery was fine, but the so-called enhancements (music, sound effects) were too distracting for me. Your mileage may vary, but I'm not a fan of Booktrack.
  

• The Hunting Party by Lucy Foley (read by Gary Furlong, Elle Newlands, Morag Sims, Imogen Church, and Moira Quirk; HarperAudio; 10 hr, 8 min): What a super closed-door mystery with a ton of red herrings and an exquisite slow burn. You don't even know who the victim is until pretty far along. Loved this. The full cast was terrific; highly recommended. (personal collection)
  
• Summer Longing by Jamie Brenner (read by Molly Parker Myers; Hachette Audio; 11 hr; 36 min): It's not summer without a Brenner book. Her beach reads always have some depth to them and focus a lot on mothers and daughters and family. Perfect for these hot August days. Myers's performance was engaging.
• Northernmost by Peter Geye (read by Edoardo Ballerini and Lisa Flanagan; Random House; 11 hr, 34 min): Just a quick note here to say that this is probably my top read of the year. I'm pretty much in awe of Geye's talents and love the generations of characters he has created. I write more about this book on GoodReads. Ballerini and Flanagan were amazing. Listen to this one!

• Death of a Policeman by M.C. Beaton (read by Graeme Malcolm; Hachette Audio; 5 hr, 20 min): I'm almost done with the series and will likely finish up by the time I post reviews again. Still fun and Malcolm is still good.
• The Aunt Who Wouldn't Die by Shirshendu Mukhopadhyay (read by Deepti Gupta and Zehra Jane Naqvi; HarperAudio; 3 hr, 15 min): I'm not sure I understood this Bengali audiobook in translation. It's the story of a poor woman who marries into a rich family and also the story of her daughter. The magical realism and the cultural references I didn't really get made this only meh for me. On the other hand, Gupta and Naqvi's performances were fine. AFM.
• His & Hers by Alice Feeney (read by Richard Armitage and Stephanie Racine; Macmillan Audio; 10 hr, 39 min): A twisty thriller set in England. Every time I thought I had figured it all out, I was wrong! Well done and worth your time. Armitage and Racine kept my interest and didn't give the story away.

• Gideon the Ninth by Tamsyn Muir (read by Moira Quirk; Recorded Books; 16 hr, 50 min): This is the first in the Locked Tomb trilogy and because the second book was (or will be?) released this summer, I thought it was time to get on board. It's a unique fantasy and science fiction mashup with good characters, okay world building, and some mysteries. I'm interested enough to listen to the second book. Quirk was good; I have no complaints.
• The Fixed Stars by Molly Wizenberg (read by Erin Mallon; Dreamscape; 6 hr 21 min): I wrote more about this on GoodReads. I like Wizenberg's earlier memoirs so I knew I would like this one too, though the subject matter is not food related. Instead Wizenberg writes about her growing self-awareness in terms of her sexuality and discusses gender in broader terms. Mallon was excellent.
• Becoming Eve by Abby Chava Stein (author read; Seal; 7 hr, 53 min): Go see my thoughts on GoodReads for more. Fascinating look into both contemporary Hasidic life and the journey of a transgender member of the community. Stein writes with openness and feeling and seems like a natural behind the mic. One of my favorites of the year.
  

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Stacked-Up Book Thoughts: My Week in Books

Why is it that we imagine we'll have so much free time during the holidays? I'm forever hopeful and forever wrong: between work, parties, cooking and baking, cleaning, shopping, wrapping, and more, there are really very few moments just to sit and relax.

Very little print reading was going on, but I finished two audiobooks, abandoned one, and started another, so that's not too bad. All the chores were so much better with a good story to keep me company.

We haven't watched too much on the screen this past week. We finally saw Green Book with Viggo Mortensen and Mahershala Ali. If you haven't seen this movie, put it on your list. It was much more than I was expecting, and it's made all the stronger because it's based on a true story. On a lighter note, we're catching up with The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel. I think we're almost done with season 2.

What I Read

I've written about Sebastien de Castell's delightful Spellslinger series and how much I absolutely love the audiobooks--all read by Joe Jameson (Hachette Audio). The fantasy series has a little bit of a Wild West feel and has characters you'll totally fall in love with (or totally hate--because they're evil). There are laugh-out-loud moments and plenty of danger and troubles as well. Crownbreaker (Orbit, Dec. 10) brings the series to a satisfying end, though the author left room for more adventures. The books star Kellen, a teen who leaves his powerful family for an outlaw's life. Kellen tries to right wrongs and to outsmart those would see him dead. The cast includes many strong women and a complex animal sidekick. In this final book, Kellen must find a way to defeat his father, one of the most powerful men on the continent. Will the confrontation end in a death, in a reconciliation, or in a stalemate? If you're looking for a fun series with great characters, give these books a try. If you're an audiobook fan, don't miss Jameson's brilliant performances. (audiobook copy provided by the publisher)

When I found out the follow up to Karen M. McManus's One of Us Is Lying (Delacorte, 2017) is coming out in just a few weeks, I decided it was high time I read this closed-room mystery. Here's the premise: five high schoolers are given detention for having cellphones in class. Before the hour is up, one of the students is dead. Who killed him and why? The story is told from the view point of the four survivors. Each one claims innocence both for the death and for having a cellphone, claiming it was all a set up. Of course, they all have secrets, and the dead boy knew those secrets and was threatening to reveal all. A nicely plotted mystery with well done red herrings and a few twists. I'm so glad I gave this a chance. The audiobook (Listening Library; 10 hr, 43 min) is performed by Kim Mai Guest, MacLeod Andrews, Shannon McManus, Robbie Daymond, who each take the part of one of the surviving students. There were no weak links, and their characterizations blended well. Now I have to put book 2 (One of Us Is Next) on my list; it's about the same school but focuses on different students. (print copy provided by the publisher; audiobook in my personal collection)

1 Ditched and 1 Loving

I started Maaza Mengiste's The Shadow King (Recorded Books; 16 hr, 9 min) with high hopes. Everyone seems to love this book about Ethiopia during World War II and the strength of a peasant girl turned woman who inspired her country to continue to fight for freedom, even when Haile Selassie himself seemed have given up. Sadly, even Robin Miles's brilliant performance couldn't save this book for me, and I abandoned it after six hours. Maybe it's the time of year and I needed something lighter, I don't know. Anyway, I said good-bye.

I'm currently reading Burnout: The Secret to Unlocking the Stress Cycle by Emily Nagoski and Amelia Nagoski (Ballantine, March 2019). I'm not really a self-help kind of person, but when Swapna Krishna recommended it, I decided to give it a try. Although I put a hold on the book over the summer, it took until this month before my turn at the library copy became available. I was hooked almost immediately. I'll have more to say about this book when I finish it, but may talk about it on Instagram and/or Litsy. The book is geared especially to woman and will have you saying YES before you're even five pages in. I see why Swapna was raving about this, and why April from Good Books & Good Wine also recommends it.

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Stacked-Up Book Thoughts: An Eclectic Reading Week

Happy hot Monday. I know I haven't written a review post in two weeks, but I just haven't been reading all that much. First was July 4, then I took another long weekend (off the grid and with friends), and then had to somehow get all my work done in between.

Oh, and in the meantime, I found a tick embedded in my arm and had to take antibiotics (hope we stopped any Lyme in its tracks) and my washing machine suddenly decided it wasn't going to move past the *fill* cycle. Fortunately, I was in the other room, and the ensuing flood (in my kitchen!) wasn't too horrible.

It took us a couple of hours to clean up the mess. Then we had to research a new washer and run around town trying to find someone who could deliver our top-choice machine this week. Success, and the new washer will be here Wednesday. In the meantime, we had tons of soaking wet dirty laundry (the stuff in the washer, plus the stuff on the floor waiting to go into the washer). It's all dry now and will be washed in a few days. Oh and did I mention it was almost 100F and we don't have central A/C?

Enough of that. No major damage (except to our wallet), so all is fine -- more or less.

Age of Legend by Michael J. Sullivan (Grim Oak Press, July 9). This is the fourth book in the Legends of the First Empire series. In three related series, Sullivan has created a complex, believable world with fully realized characters and a consistent history. I absolutely adore his books, his ability to write a compelling plot with a good mix of action, character interactions, descriptive prose, and flowing dialogue. Sad things and rough things happen, but there's always a touch of humor to keep readers buoyed. In this entry, the war between the humans and elves continues. We see a glimmer of hope for resolution, but can we trust that the plan will end in success? One thing I really loved about Age of Legend is that the story revolves around one of the (up to this point) minor characters, so we get a little different perspective on the greater political, magical, and spiritual aspects of the changing world. What didn't I like? The book ended on a cliff-hanger! Argh!!! The good news is that next installment should be out before the year is over. I need to know what happens to some of my favorite characters. I listened to the unabridged audiobook (Recorded Books; 14 hr, 34 min), read by the fantabulous Tim Gerard Reynolds. Reynolds is THE voice of Sullivan's books and his characterizations are not to be missed. I can't say enough about his sense of pacing, his smooth delivery of the dialogue, his comedic timing . . . Reynolds has it all. (print copy and audiobook copy from my personal library)

Amelia Fang and the Barbaric Ball / Amelia Fang and the Unicorns of Glitteropolis by Laura Ellen Anderson (Delacorte BYR, July 30). I love middle grade fiction, though I'm normally drawn to books written for a tween audience. The Amelia Fang books are geared to somewhat younger readers, but I loved the premise and put them on my review list. Amelia is a young vampire who has a pet pumpkin. Her best friends are Florence Spudwick (a rare breed of Yeti) and Grimaldi Reaperton (a grim reaper in training). In Barbaric Ball Amelia has to be nice to the young prince of Nocturina, but Tangine isn't very nice back. The underlying message of the story is about friendship and how we shouldn't judge others' behavior until we know their background. In Unicorns, the four friends must travel to the terrifying land of light (with its unicorns and fairies) to try to set things right for Tangine and his family. The underlying message here is trying new things, being brave, and learning that different kinds of beings are scary only because we don't know their true nature. It's not all that sappy because there really are some bad guys in Glitteropolis.

Here are some other things that make the Amelia Fang books such fun to read. First and foremost is Anderson's laugh-out-loud sense of humor. For example, in Amelia's dark world of vampires and goblins, insults are terms of endearment. In fact, Amelia's father lovingly calls his wife "Dearest belch-breath." Each book begins with a map and then black and white portraits of the main characters. Each portrait includes the character's likes and dislikes (Tangine hates an empty stomach). Throughout the chapter books, readers are treated to Anderson's expressive illustrations: We see the emotions on the character's faces, drawings of scenery, and busy action scenes. Anderson also uses different fonts to convey different types of text: noises, Florence's dialogue, notes, signs, and so on.

The Amelia Fang books star a girl vampire, but she has female and male friends of different creatures, making it easy for all kinds of readers to find plenty to love in these stories. I'm looking forward to the next books in the series. (Thanks to the publisher for finished review copies)

Burn the Ice by Kevin Alexander (Penguin Press, July 9). In this well-researched book, Alexander takes a look at the American foodie boom, especially in the early twenty-first century. He looks at the role of social media, the "spicing" of American foods, the rise of celebrity chefs, important food cities, the rediscovery of cocktails, the #metoo movement, the #blacklivesmatter movement, NOLA and Katrina, and much more. To tell this story, Alexander focuses on a handful of important restaurant chefs and their establishments: how they came to cooking, what they brought to the scene, and where they set up shop. Some of them you may have heard of--like Tom Colicchio from Gramercy Tavern and Top Chef--and others are much less well known--like Anja Mitra and his wife, Emily, who brought Indian food to the Bay Area. Some people we meet in depth, like Portland's Gabriel Rucker, and others are given short bursts of background info (Guy Fieri and Ree Drummand). I was particularly interested in the history of hot chicken and the story of Indian food in California, both of which reflect on business competition, different levels of personal ambition, and what happens when diners and chefs sense a trend. Be warned: Burn the Ice jumps around a bit and doesn't hold back on adult language. Alexander's examination of the rise and fall of the new millennium's food scene will be most appealing to those of us who are interested in food movements and the interplay between the food world, the economy, and cultural trends. My review of the audiobook edition will be available via AudioFile magazine.

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Stacked-Up Book Thoughts: 6 Books to Read Right Now

Gawk! How can it be April already??? And it's an April without the signs of spring. Here in Pennsylvania, we're just getting crocus and haven't yet seen daffodils or forsythia. Soon, soon--I know.

If you're wondering where I've been the last couple weeks, here's my sad (not really) story. March is a really busy editing month, which means I'm less inclined to read for pleasure. What's more, I read a long book and listened to a long book, which cuts down on the number of titles finished (though both were well worth the time investment).

One casualty has been my short story a week project. I had to let something slip, and that was it. Oh well, April gives me a fresh start, right? Or am I just fooling myself (ha, couldn't resist).

The Sun Is a Compass: A 4,000-Mile Journey into the Alaskan Wilds by Caroline Van Hemert (Little, Brown Spark, March 19). In this memoir, Van Hemert, a field biologist who studies birds, tells us about the incredible human-powered trek she and her husband made from Washington State to the far north of Alaska. Although they occasionally slept indoors and accepted hospitality, each inch of their journey was taken under their own power, sometimes rowing or kayaking, sometimes skiing, and quite often walking. Neither were new to Alaska or to living in the wilds. They planned their trip carefully, arranging food drops and delivery (and pickup) of various kinds of transport (boats and skis). They carried no guns or rifles but had a satellite phone, just in case. This isn't a dramatic survival story (though they had a couple scary moments); instead it gives us a glimpse of wilderness most of us will never experience: massive migrations, the changing tundra, biting flies, and close encounters with sea mammals. Van Hemert's keen eye and clear writing made me feel as if I were right there with her on this once in a lifetime trip. I listened to the unabridged audiobook (Hachette Audio; 9 hr, 2 min) wonderfully read by Xe Sands. Sands infused her performance with just the right amount of emotion, awe, and drama, matching Van Hemert's intent, without crossing the line into movie-of-the-week theatrical. If you like the outdoors or are curious about Alaska or wild places, try this in print or audio. For photos of this trip and others, visit Van Hemert's website. (audiobook copy provided by the publisher)

Mama's Last Hug: Animal Emotions and What They Tell Us about Ourselves by Frans de Waal (Norton, March 12). In a previous life, I was a physical anthropologist, and my undergraduate thesis was all about nonhuman primate behavior. Thus when I had the chance to review this book for AudioFile Magazine, I said yes without hesitation. De Waal is well known and well respected in the field of primate behavior, and in this book, he talks the monkeys and apes he's known and observed and what (as the subtitle says) his (and others') research can tell us about ourselves and about the other mammals around us. Are we humans the only ones who feel shame? How about empathy? Why is it that people are the only animals who blush? Are we altruistic or competitive? This is a fascinating book and I could barely stop listening. De Waal writes in a casual style that is easy to follow and understand. He makes his points by telling stories and giving us much to ponder. Besides apes and monkeys, we also learn a little bit about other animals, including rats, elephants, dogs, and cats. If you're an animal lover, you might want to give this a try. The unabridged audiobook (Recorded Books; 10 hr, 38 min) was read by L. J. Ganser, whose expressive delivery seemed to capture de Waal's intentions perfectly. De Waal himself reads the afterword. For more, see my review on AudioFile magazine.

Bookshop of the Broken Hearted by Robert Hillman (Putnam, April 9). Sometimes you just need to escape, and Hillman's novel hit the spot. Set in two time periods--eastern Europe during World War II and rural Australia during the Vietnam War era--this is a story of three very different people trying to find stability and love in a wold that seems out to get them. Hannah is a Hungarian Jew who survived the war, a concentration camp, the Russian army, and two husbands. The hows and whys of how she ended up in Hometown, Australia, teaching music and dead-set on opening a bookstore in a community that isn't known for reading are told through flashbacks. Tom owns a spread and does okay for himself, despite his loneliness. His wife abandoned him, returning pregnant by another man. After her son was born she left again, returning only briefly four years later to reclaim the boy. Peter hates living with his mother, who is a member of a Jesus cult, and once he's old enough to figure how to pull it off, he runs away in hopes of being reunited with Tom. Can these three broken people find in each other the hope of healing and trust? The book contains some tough scenes and difficult issues, but I was totally taken in by the three main characters and their personal struggles. I especially rooted for Tom, who is a good man and deserves a good life. I liked the way Hillman ended the book, which seemed realistic and believable. The unabridged audiobook (Penguin Audio; 9 hr, 26 min), was read by Daniel Lapaine, who did a good job with the accents and characterizations. I bet you'll zip through this in either print or audio. (digital and audiobook copies provided by the publisher)

Outpost by W. Michael Gear (Daw; Feb. 5--paperback). This is the first in the Donovan trilogy by anthropologist / novelist Gear, and the good news is that all three books are available now. Watch this space because I can't wait to start book two. If you aren't a science fiction fan, I hope you take the time to read the following paragraph, because you might be swayed to give this a try.

In the future, a colony of Earthlings are attempting to establish an outpost on the planet Donovan, which is rich in minerals and elements that people back home covet and need. Human life is ruled by the Corporation, which is supposed to free people from all worries about health, education, and housing. Donovan, however, seems to have been forgotten, and it's been years since a resupply ship has arrived. As a consequence, the colonists have developed their own rules for keeping order and for staying alive on a very, very dangerous planet. When a Corporate ship finally does arrive, the settlement is disrupted on a number of fronts, and the three people who keep the peace--especially security officer Talina Perez--are faced with dealing with newbies, colonists who hope to return home, and a ship's captain who clearly doesn't understand what she's up against. Although absolutely science fiction in the sense that we are dealing with extraterrestrial life, this novel really finds its foundation in Gear's professional background. The story focuses on how humans behave in a new environment. The feel is a little bit Wild West mixed with early European colonization of "new" worlds on earth. People have different motivations for immigration and different dreams for how they'll be in their new home. The book gives you things to think about and is very anthropological. The characters are well drawn and there's a ton of action. The planet Donovan is filled with unique creatures and poses a number of environmental problems. I don't really consider myself to be much of a sci-fi reader but I loved this book. (finished copy provided by the publisher).

Short Takes and a DNF

• Figuring by Maria Popova (Pantheon, Feb. 5). If you like science, art, music, writing, or women's history you'll love this book as much as I did. Popova finds the sometimes surprising connections among music, science, writing, and art--across time and space--via the lives of women who faced the limits of cultural (men's) expectations. Among women she introduces us to are Maria Mitchell, Margret Fuller, Emily Dickinson, and Rachel Carson. Besides issues with pursuing careers, many of these women also struggled with unconventional sexual lives (including LGBTQ+ identities). This is perfect for fans of Ali Smith. I reviewed this book for AudioFile magazine, where you can find more of my thoughts. The audiobook was brilliantly read by Natascha McElhone (Random House Audio; 21 hr, 27 min)
• All That Remains: A Renowned Forensic Scientist on Death, Mortality, and Solving Crimes by Sue Black (Arcade, March 5). This is another book that I reached for because I was once a physical anthropologist. Black is a forensic anthropologist, and in her book she talks about all kinds of fascinating things, such as our relationship with death (through time and across cultures) and her own journey to her profession. We also learn about the process of identifying human remains for research, solving crimes, during war, and after disasters. She also writes about her thoughts about what she hopes her own death will be like. Black is informative, respectful, easily accessible, and funny. This is perfect for anatomy nerds and CSI fans. (digital copy provided by the publisher).
• Dark Blossom by Neel Mullick (Rupa, Dec. 10, 2018). This was a DNF for me. First let me say that the book has an average rating of 4.05 on GoodReads. Totally my fault for not checking out the publication details before accepting the book. I DNF'd because my copyeditor's brain couldn't handle the style decisions, but clearly I was in the minority, since almost 100 people at GoodReads really liked this thriller.

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Stacked-Up Book Thoughts: Preholiday Reading

This has been a crazy two weeks: I've been working hard, reading a bit, finishing the shopping (we're done!), and getting the house holiday ready. I swear, every second of my time has been taken up.

The good news is that we're in great shape and it's only December 10. For the first time in years, we'll be able to relax and enjoy the season. My stress levels are near zero!

Have you seen Netflix's version of Dumplin' yet? We really liked it, and I thought the film stayed true to the spirit of the book, even if some things were different. But isn't that always the case when a book is adapted for the screen?

For example, I love the series Outlander, even if the arc of a few characters has changed and even if the show isn't 100 percent following the books. It's still good. I think the writers and directors have captured the magic of the books, and I'm fine with that.

Here's what I read over the last two weeks. If you're interested in food or drink writing, I encourage you to look at my Saturday post, which covers three books that would make great holiday gifts.

Red Sister by Mark Lawrence (Ace, February 2018). This first in a fantasy trilogy starts off slowly, introducing us to the characters, setting up the premise, and showing us the alternate world. I can surely understand why some readers gave up early, but if you stick with this book, you're in for a treat. In the world of Red Sister, nuns do more than hold the faith; they are also warriors and scholars. Our primary hero is young Nona Grey who, despite being just a child, is accused of murdering a grown man who was hurting her friend. Saved at the last second by Sister Glass of the Sweet Mercy Convent, Nona eventually settles into her new life as a initiate in the convent, learning to fight and use poisons along with her regular lessons. Over the course of her youth, Nona also discovers the meaning of friendship and her true heritage. Mixed in with familiar fantasy plot lines are some surprises, a unique universe, and many strong women. I listened to the unabridged audiobook (Recorded Books; 19 hr, 21 min), read by Heather O'Neill. This is my first experience with O'Neill, and I was pretty impressed. I thought she did a great job with the dialogue, giving appropriate vocal tones to each character. Her diction was clear, and she kept my interest throughout. I was relieved to see that she performs the second book in the series, and I sure hope she's also around for the final installment. (library book)

Friday Black by Nana Kwame Adjei-Brenyah (Mariner Books, October 2018). Okay guys, I think I'm now a short-story enthusiast, because this is the second collection that I just couldn't put down. Wow. Some of the stories in this collection are very loosely connected in setting, but they all share similar themes of being black in America, touching on family, power, death, poverty, working for minimum wage, education, and ethics. Adjei-Brenyah's worlds are mostly futuristic or semi-dystopian (some are full-on speculative), and each character's journey grabbed my attention. In one, a young man is working at an outdoor store at the mall, hoping to earn top sales so he can give his mom a new winter coat. In another, a usually straight-laced black teen reacts to a news story of a white man who killed seven very young black children and used self-defense as justification. In the title story, frenzied mall shoppers are afflicted with a zombie like condition, destroying stores in their quest for the perfect gift. I listened to the unabridged audiobook (Recorded Books; 7 hr, 8 min), read by Corey Allen and Carra Patterson. The bulk of the stories are read by Allen, whose performance is near-perfect. Patterson's work is equally impressive. Highly recommended in print or audio. (For more on the audiobook, see AudioFile magazine.)

The Feather Thief by Kirk Wallace Johnson (Viking, April 2018). So many things about this book called to me, particularly true crime, fly fishing, and evolutionary biology. In 2009, a young, promising American musician, studying abroad, broke into a satellite branch of the British Museum of Natural History and stole 299 specimens of tropical birds. These weren't just any old stuffed birds, but were important examples for scientific study and included many collected by Alfred Russel Wallace, who independently came up with the idea of natural selection at the same time as Charles Darwin. The birds were all rare, endangered, and very important to ornithologists, evolutionary biologists, and even climate scientists. So why did Edwin Rist commit this crime? He was a world-renown salmon flytier, who was obsessed with obtaining the rare bird feathers, which would advance his craft and bring him almost unlimited income from selling the bird carcasses, one beautiful feather at a time. Investigative journalist Johnson, a trout fly-fisherman, became intrigued with the case. Although Rist was arrested 18 months after the heist, he didn't serve jail time, and quite a number of the stolen birds remained unaccounted for. Johnson was captivated by the crime and the idea that someone would be driven to steal feathers just to tie flies that would never actually be used to catch salmon. He also wanted to know why Rist was released by the British courts and whether he worked alone. I was totally drawn in to Rist's story and Johnson's investigation. The crime is heartbreaking and mind-boggling and shows how some passions can have a dark side. You don't have to be a fly-fisherman to enjoy this book; Feather Thief would appeal to anyone who likes true crime. (library book)

Impossible Fortress by Jason Rekulak (Simon & Schuster, February 7). I had absolutely no idea what this book was about when I reached into my backlog of review copies and decided to give this a try. Set in 1987, when few people had a home computer and CompuServe ruled the dial-up-connected world, this is part coming-of-age story and part homage to a simpler, more private era. Billy Marvin has two loves: writing computer games for his Commodore 64 and Vanna White (of Wheel of Fortune fame). When he and his fellow nerdy friends develop a scheme to steal copies of Playboy magazine featuring Vanna in her birthday suit, Billy discovers that he's not alone in dreaming of becoming a world-famous computer game coder and that, despite his better instincts, he's not above getting into very bad trouble. This was a fun, cute, and nostalgic story. I really liked Billy and completely understood the issues he faced--his loyalty to his best friends, his passion for programming, and his budding romance as well as his genuine regret when he becomes involved in something he knows is dead wrong. This novel (not a YA book) is for those of us who remember the 1980s--even those of us (like me) who were well out of high school by then. The plot is somewhat predictable but no less charming and is full of pop culture references. This is the perfect stress-reducing read. I listened to the unabridged audiobook (Simon & Schuster Audio; 7 hr, 23 min), read by Griffin Newman, whose expressive performance added to the emotional depth of Billy's story. I liked his characterizations and good delivery of the dialogue. The audiobook has some well-done sound effects as well. (review copy from the publisher)

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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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Stacked-Up Book Thoughts: A Slow Reading Week

Well this has been an embarrassing week for a book reviewer! I've listened to one -- yes ONE -- book all week. That's it.

I have an excuse of sorts: I'm trying to work ahead so I can take a trip with my girlfriends. Thus my life has been all about editing, freelance writing, packing, and otherwise losing my mind.

Oh and did I mention the poison ivy I got while weeding the other day? Oh yes. What a great airplane trip I'm going to have (scratch, scratch). Fortunately, the rash doesn't seem to be too bad, and I've been able to contain the itch with calamine lotion. STILL!

More about my upcoming trip in a later post. . . . In the meantime, here's what I listened to.

Age of War by Michael J. Sullivan (Del Rey, July 3), the third book in the Legends of the First Empire series, continues the story of the deep history of the universe introduced in the Riyria Revelations. Lost? Don't be. Sullivan has written three epic fantasy series, all set in the same world but not in the same time period. The first two series focused on the adventures of two thieves and how their seemingly insignificant lives in fact had an impact on far-reaching events. This third series goes back in time to reveal the pivotal events that changed a world and provided the foundation for the other books. I can't really say much about Age of War to those of you who haven't read any of Sullivan's books without giving away major spoilers. What I can say is this: Sullivan knows how to create believable characters that are easy to root for or to hate. Not everyone lives. Relationships don't always go the way you want them to. People grow and change. People make mistakes. There are dwarfs and elves and magic, but this isn't a children's story with wands and pointy hats. Age of War, as the title suggests, involves bloody battles and politics. Sacrifices are made, people are injured and killed, and few choices are black or white. I love, love, love these books and this entry did not disappoint. I also can't say enough good things about Tim Gerard Reynolds's performance of the audiobook (Recorded Books, 15 hr, 47 min). He gets the emotions, the pacing, the humor, and the personalities down perfectly.  (personal collection).

Bad Man by Dathan Auerbach (Doubleday, August 7): This novel, about the disappearance of a young boy from a grocery store, was pitched as being spooky. I don't do scary, but Mr. BFR does, so I accepted the ARC with the understanding that if anyone read the book in my house, it would be him. He did in fact read it, and here are some of his brief thoughts. First, he didn't think it was all that scary, though he liked the setup: Teenage Ben loses track of his three-year-old brother in a grocery store, and the toddler is never seen again. As his family falls apart, Ben, now twenty, is forced to work at the very store where his brother disappeared. There is a cast of creepy characters who all seem to be hiding something, and Ben has never stopped looking for his brother or feeling guilty. Mr. BFR was invested for most of the book, coming up with theories for the identity of the "bad man." Unfortunately, the Southern Gothic story didn't hold up at the end. He didn't buy some of the reveals and was frustrated by some unresolved issues. The book ends with an author's note that talks about the inspiration for this story. Mr. BFR says he wishes he had read the note before reading the book; it might have positively affected his reactions. Other reviewers had better luck, so you might want to give it a try.

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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: Reading across the Genres

Happy long weekend to those who have one. So far I haven't been doing a lot of reading. Instead I've been getting the house and deck ready for summer, preparing for our cookout, visiting with neighbors and friends, and generally goofing off.

If it doesn't rain today, I do plan to spend some time on the deck, enjoying the day and reading Burning Brightly by Alexa Donne, a really fun Jane Eyre retelling that takes place in space.

On the screen, we watched The Post (starring Meryl Streep), which we liked but didn't love. Last night we started the Showtime series Fourth Estate, which is  about the New York Times and its reporting on the current White House. I highly recommend it.

What I've Read Recently

The Blade Itself by Joe Abercrombie (Orbit, 2015, paperback): The initial entry in the epic fantasy First Law Trilogy started out a little slow, introducing the characters and setting up the action, but I stuck with it and I'm glad I did. We have ancient magicians (not the kind with wands and pointy hats), a rustic fighter from the north, a young nobleman swordsman from the south, a rebel woman who's an expert archer, a master navigator, and the head of the inquisition all of whom end up together on a undetailed mission led by the magician. Each has a hidden past, few of them like each other, and it's not yet clear if they're on the same side. There seem to be several factions: ruling family, conquering army, downtrodden commoners, foreign traders, and powers behind the throne, leaving us to wonder who is good, who is bad, is there a conspiracy, and do legends really do come true? If you like epic fantasy, you'll like The Blade Itself. I listened to the unabridged audiobook (Hachette Audio; 22 hr, 16 min) read by Steven Pacy while driving to Ohio and back to visit my mom. It took me a little while to get used to the style of Pacy's delivery, but I ended up liking his good pacing and distinct characterizations. Recommended in either medium. (personal collection)

Hard Country by Michael McGarrity (Dutton, 2013, paperback). This is the start of a family saga that begins after the Civil War and takes place is the largely unsettled American Southwest, mostly in New Mexico. John Kerney and his friend Cal Doran start a cattle ranch together, each escaping their past and hoping for a better future. After his wife's death in childbirth, Kerney gives his newborn son to his widowed sister-in-law to raise until Kerney's new spread is up and running. Thus starts the story of several generations of Kerney men, their loves and losses, their friendships, and their relationship with the land itself in a rapidly changing America. I should have loved this book: I like the time period and setting, and I really like family sagas. Unfortunately, McGarrity is a teller, not a shower and many of the deaths and other setbacks were heavily foreshadowed. A few historic characters make their way into the Kerneys' lives (Billy the Kid, for example), which was fun. The descriptions of the end days of the Old West, the impact of new technology (trains, telegraph, cars, electricity), and the beautiful scenery kept my attention enough to finish the book. I'm not sure though that I'll continue the series. There are (I think) two more books. Maybe I'll try the next one on audio, read by the wonderful George Guidall. (copy provided by the publisher)

The Royal Wulff Murders by Keith McCafferty (Penguin, 2013, paperback): I love a good mystery series, and the Sean Stranahan books, set in Montana, have been on my list for a long time. Stranahan, a back-East private investigator, left his job at his uncle's law firm and moved west to start a new life after his divorce. His office door says artist / P.I., and that space serves as his studio and home. When not painting, Stranahan fly-fishes the big waters of Monatana's best rivers and streams. Stranahan gets caught up in a murder investigation when a professional fishing guide chances across a dead body. I really enjoyed the setup of the mystery. Besides the good character development (Stranahan, a female sheriff, local fishermen, neighbors, friends) and great descriptions of Montana and fly-fishing, the murder investigation itself was well done and not at all cutesy / cozy. Environmental issues and local politics also come into play. The solution to the murder wasn't obvious (at least not to me), and I was caught up in the relationships among what I assume will be the ongoing characters as well as Stranahan's complex life (artist, P.I., fisherman, friend, lover). I listened to the unabridged audiobook (Recorded Books, 10 hr, 30 min), read by Rick Holmes, who was engaging enough that I'll stick with the audiobooks for this series. Holmes is easy to understand and distinguishes among the characters. His cadence is steady, but not monotonous, and he does an okay job with women's voices. I'm hooked (ha, ha) and will continue with the series. (personal collection)

Tin Man by Sarah Winman (Putnam, 2018): I have mixed feelings about this short novel of two troubled boys who meet as tweens and remain friends throughout their lives. Set in the non-university part of Oxford in the late decades of the last century, the story explores sexuality, fathers and sons, marriage, friendship, and life choices. It's beautifully written, and the arc of Ellis and Michael's relationship from youth to adulthood is a powerful emotional journey. Michael embraces life, accepts himself and others as they are, and is the light of Ellis's life. Ellis puts his own dreams aside, obeying his father by dropping out of school as a teen to become a factory worker with a lifetime job and set future. Winman's writing is exquisite, and the emotional impact is strong. I was left with a lot to think about: social and family expectations and personal identity; loneliness, loss, and new beginnings. Why the mixed feelings? I listened to the unabridged audiobook (Penguin Audio; 4 hr, 33 min) read by the author. While Winman didn't do a bad job, I think the novel would have benefited from a professional narrator. She created a buffer between me and the characters, whereas a different narrator would have deepened my engagement. It's a shame. I recommend this in print. My full audiobook review will be available through AudioFile magazine. (review copies; print and audio)

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Sound Recommendations: 2 Short Audiobook Reviews

You know it's the holidays when you've already been to a Christmas cookie exchange! Now to remember the cookies are for guests, not for me. Boy they're tempting though.

What I Read Last Week

Prairie Fires: The American Dreams of Laura Ingalls Wilder by Caroline Fraser (Metropolitan Books): One of my favorite ways to read nonfiction, especially history and biography, is to combine print and audio, so that's the approach I took to this fascinating and eye-opening look at Wilder's life and work. The book starts with a factual account of Laura's childhood, which sometimes differs from the picture Wilder painted in her Little House series. What's new here aren't so much the generalities as the details, especially of some of the decisions Charles Ingalls (Pa) made, the family's financial situation, and Wilder's education and need to work. Next, Fraser looks at Wilder's adult life: as wife, mother, and author, especially in the Ozarks. Fraser delves into Wilder's marriage to Almanzo, the couple's relationship, his disabilities, and their struggles on their farm. Most surprising for me was learning more about Wilder's daughter, Rose. Rose had many financial and mental issues but still managed to become a well-known writer and world traveler. In addition, there is no doubt that Rose helped sell her mother's initial manuscript and also played a role in editing and polishing Wilder's work--though the stories, the charm, and perspective are all Laura's. The final section deals with Wilder's legacy. Throughout, Fraser puts Wilder's experiences, opinions, and literary work into the broader context of history and contemporary issues: American Indian relationships, civil rights, the Depression, the New Deal, communism, the romance of the West, and more. Note that Fraser doesn't hesitate to share the less endearing aspects of Wilder and her family; your opinions of the beloved Little House gang will likely be changed. Prairie Fires is important both to fans of Laura Ingalls Wilder and the Little House books and to people interested in American history. It's hard to fully comprehend the expanse of Wilder's life: from a covered-wagon pioneer helping Pa clear sod to a world-famous author flying in a plane to visit her daughter. The unabridged audiobook (Recorded Books; 21 hr, 26 min) was read by Christina Moore. Moore's performance was engaging, and I was particularly impressed with how she handled the more sensitive material. My full audiobook review will be available through AudioFile magazine.

I also listened to a children's book: Winter Sky by Patricia Reilly Giff (Listening Library, 2 hr, 49 min) read mostly by Arielle Sitrick (Cassandra Campbell had a small part). Although Sitrick's rendition of the young girl's voice and perspective was very nicely done, it couldn't save this story of a young girl in New York City who worries about her firefighter father. Siria, named after her late-mother's favorite star, sneaks out at night to chase the sirens when her father is on duty. When Siria suspects there is an arsonist in the neighborhood, she decides to figure out who is doing the burning, almost destroying some her friendships along the way. So much of this story is unrealistic, from the fact that neither Siria's father nor her baby-sitters ever notice the youngster (I think she is around 10) climbs out her window or tiptoes out the door at night to the idea that the child of a firefighter would decide it was safe to investigate arson all on her own. I finished listening only because the book was short and got me through some of my holiday baking.

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Stacked-Up Book Thoughts: The Eclectic Edition

This month is an exciting one for sky watchers. Although it was too cloudy to seem much of the pleiades meteor shower on Friday night (which was supposed to be the peak viewing time), we did go out on Saturday night and were able to see several shooting stars before the clouds moved in again. Next week is, of course, the eclipse.

In other news, I spent most of the week researching a new laptop (PC), and I think I'm now ready to place my order. It's always such a difficult decision because whatever I buy, I'll be using 10 to 12 hours a day for 3 to 5 years. My research took up most of my reading time, but I still managed to complete three very different books.

What I Read

The Life We Bury by Allen Eskens (Seventh Street Books, 2014): I've been meaning to read this psychological thriller for a while now, so was very happy that it was the summer selection for my postal book club. For a college project, Joe interviews a dying convicted murderer, who has always insisted on his innocence. During the course of their conversations, Joe begins to believe the old man. But the more he digs into the past, the more he puts himself in danger. There is much to love about this novel, from the great characters to the action. Everyone, it seems, has parts of their lives they'd like to hide from the public, and Joe himself is no exception. Besides the murder case, themes include friendships, family, PTSD, and autism. Highly recommended and deserving of all its many awards.

Age of Swords by Michael J. Sullivan (Del Rey, July 2017): The newest installment in the epic fantasy series Legends of the First Empire is everything Sullivan fans have come to expect. There are several plot lines in this book, but all are leading to the seemingly unavoidable war between the humans and elves, and even dwarfs are entering the conflict. First, we have the elves who are more concerned with rebellion among their own than they are with weak and powerless humans. Next, we have the humans, who are trying to band together, to catch up technologically, and to learn to fight. The final group consists of a handful of human women and dwarf men who undertake a dangerous journey. I love this universe and can't wait until the next book comes out. The audiobook (Recorded Books; 20 hr, 2 min) was read by Tim Gerard Reynolds, who is the absolute best voice for Sullivan's work. He's great at picking up the personalities of the characters and delivers both the action and the humor with perfect timing.

Get Well Soon: History’s Worst Plagues and the Heroes Who Fought Them by Jennifer Wright (Henry Holt, February 2017): I picked this audiobook based on several recommendations of trusted friends and because it is so absolutely up my alley. This is a nonfiction account of the major plagues that have affected humankind from Roman times to the present. Some of the diseases covered are the black plague, smallpox, leprosy, and the Spanish flu. Wright's focus is on the ways government, society, and contemporary medical practitioners dealt with the horrors of incurable sickness that affected the masses. You might think this could be dry stuff, but you'd be very, very wrong. I was utterly fascinated with things like the exploding frog cure for bubonic plague and nose reconstruction for syphilis. I didn't realize the classic movie The Red Shoes had a foundation in a real disease, and I didn't know the behind-the-scenes history of the polio vaccine. I loved Wright's sense of humor and the many references to pop culture, television, movies, and books. The unabridged audiobook (Blackstone; 7 hr, 43 min) was read by Gabra Zackman. I think this is my first experience with Zackman, who nailed this book. I loved her conversational tone, which perfectly fit Wright's writing style; the way she signaled quotes from the running narrative; and her delivery of both the humor and the gruesome. One of my favorite books of the year.

Giveaways

I have a great giveaway going on now for Big Little Lies: one person will get a Blu-Ray/digital download of the fabulous HBO series plus a copy of the book. Click the link for more information. Tomorrow I'll have another giveaway--this one for a collection of short stories you won't want to miss. Note that both giveaways are for people with USA mailing addresses only.

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