June 1, 2016 - July 1, 2016
Judy from Duluth, MN
Marilyn from Smyrna, GA
Audrey
The Genesis Code by John Case
Narrator Name: Dick Hill
Rating the Audio Performance
I think Dick Hill's performance was probably one of his best. Rating the Book's Content/Storyline
This book was chosen by my book club. The storyline was an investigation of murders. The main character owns a security company, and when his sister and her child are murdered, he puts all his effort into investigating. This takes him across the world and leads him to other murders of women and then young children. Finally, he makes a connection to a fertility clinic where those women underwent a particular procedure. He compiles a list of everyone who had the procedure --- they are all dead except one. He sets out to find her. One of the things I liked about the book is the way the author does not explain until close to the end why they are being murdered. I won't spoil it. Very good book.
Crystal
Death of a Celebrity: A Hamish Macbeth Mystery by M.C. Beaton
Narrator Name: Graeme Malcolm
Rating the Audio Performance
Wonderful performance. Rating the Book's Content/Storyline
Good cozy mystery. Good plot.
Linda
The Supreme Court: The Personalities and Rivalries that Defined America by Jeffrey Rosen
Narrator Name: Alan Sklar
Rating the Audio Performance
Very well done, good pacing, understandable, good intonations. Rating the Book's Content/Storyline
I've read several books about recent Federal Supreme Court Justices, but this is the first that I read about justices from the past. Not a comprehensive book, but a decent overview.
Debbie
Sycamore Row by John Grisham
Narrator Name: Michael Beck
Rating the Audio Performance
The narrator does a wonderful job with all the voices. The characters sound just as you would expect, southern drawl and all. The narrator is especially good at getting the voice of the judge correct. Rating the Book's Content/Storyline
Grisham has written a great story about redemption and families. Although the story revolves around a contested will, whose maker dies at the beginning of the story, the underlying story --- the relationship among the various characters --- is the real story. The courtroom scenes are spot on, as is the way in which the judge controls his courtroom. This is a very good story, which makes you think about how the events of our childhood affect us for our entire lives, including how we plan our deaths.
Michael
Fool Me Once by Harlan Coben
Narrator Name: January LaVoy
Rating the Audio Performance
Well read. The characters were distinct without being distracting and it was read very appropriately for the situations (tension, etc). Rating the Book's Content/Storyline
Great story! I LOVE not being able to predict the ending or upcoming plot twists. Coben is very good at putting the main characters in crazy situations. This is a good thing. I thought the book was riveting.
Nissa
The Kindly Ones by Jonathan Littell
Narrator Name: Grover Gardner
Rating the Audio Performance
Good performance. Rating the Book's Content/Storyline
One of the most terrible and fantastic books I have ever read. Made me understand with my heart the most gruesome campaign in human history. This book is about WWII and the Holocaust.
Peg
Mr. Mercedes by Stephen King
Narrator Name: Will Patton
Rating the Audio Performance
An excellent reading that engages you and brings the characters to life. Rating the Book's Content/Storyline
This is Stephen King in all his horrible glory. Some wonderful turns of phrase and off-the-cuff humor in an otherwise horrifying plot line.
Debra
Mad World by Kate L. Mary
Narrator Name: Hillary Huber and Patrick Lawlor
Rating the Audio Performance
I really like listening to Hillary Huber --- that was why I bought the audiobook. I did not realize this third book had another person reading also --- so disappointing. I do not like the sound of his voice. I have purchased the remaining series as readable books only, no audio. Rating the Book's Content/Storyline
Love the storyline. The characters do not get boring. We continue to follow Vivian, Axel and Angus on their quest to find a safe place for themselves and their friends away from the zombie hordes. They must face evil, both human and dead, and try to come out of it with some bit of hope for the future.
Judy
Stella Bain by Anita Shreve
Narrator Name: Hope Davis
Rating the Audio Performance
I was totally absorbed in the audio, which fit the story perfectly. Rating the Book's Content/Storyline
Absorbing!
Joan
The Storied Life of A. J. Fikry by Gabrielle Zevin
Narrator Name: Scott Brick
Rating the Audio Performance
Mr. Brick's performance was very good. I liked his ability to add the drama to the story, without changing his voice to be different characters. Some people say he's too slow, but I felt that he had the love of the story and characters in his voice. I would want to read it this way. I wouldn't want the book to be read faster since I really liked it and wanted it to last even longer! Rating the Book's Content/Storyline
I love books, all kinds. Read the summary and decided this had to be a good book. I was right! It was a wonderful story --- so good that I got two of my three reading groups to read it and it was a favorite for everyone.
Barbara
The Sleep Revolution: Transforming Your Life, One Night at a Time by Arianna Huffington
Narrator Name: Agapi Stassinopoulos
Rating the Audio Performance
Read by the author's sister, this is the worst audio performance I have ever listened to! I am the child of immigrants with accents, and work in the medical field with people of different ethnic backgrounds with accents, and I had a hard time understanding what she was saying. This made it difficult to concentrate and follow along. Rating the Book's Content/Storyline
Glad I borrowed this from the library and did not pay for it. It is as if Ms. Huffington googled "sleep" and then wrote a book. "We need more sleep" is just repeated over and over again. This insomniac learned nothing new and did not get any new tips for better sleep. Disappointing.
Tessa B C
The Women by T. C. Boyle
Narrator Name: Grover Gardner
Rating the Audio Performance
Grover Gardner does a reasonably good job narrating the audiobook. He has good pacing, and I really grew to like the way he voiced Miriam. Rating the Book's Content/Storyline
Boyle tells the story of Frank Lloyd Wright through the eyes of the women who loved him: his three wives and his mistress. The chronology moves back and forth, beginning with Wright’s last love, and the storyline seemed somewhat fractured. Despite the title and the organization of the book, the women come off as secondary to the man. Frank Lloyd Wright is a bigger-than-life presence here, and I grew tired of him.
Vikki
Finding Jake by Bryan Reardon
Narrator Name: George Newbern
Rating the Audio Performance
I really don't have much to comment on. The performer read the book. I think I was less enthused by the story than anything else. Rating the Book's Content/Storyline
This story just trudged on and on. I felt myself working my mental "to do" list instead of listening to the story as I was driving. This just didn't grab my attention, but I finished it anyway. I think I was expecting a great ending because there was so much being built up before it, but it just didn't happen.
peggy
Orbit by John J. Nance
Narrator Name: John J. Nance
Rating the Audio Performance
I am listening to this book for the second time. I own the hard cover but prefer the audio version because the story and the audio performance are just that good. Rating the Book's Content/Storyline
Synopsis: first citizen to travel into space; disaster strikes and he thinks he won't make it home so he starts to write about it on the ship's computer, not realizing that everyone with access to the internet can read what he writes. (I've written to Mr. Nance asking if this would be made into a movie. He stated that while the first option didn't turn out --- too many re-writes and he started to lose the story he originally intended --- he may look for a future option). I believe it would make a great movie!
Gerry
The Soul of an Octopus: A Surprising Exploration into the Wonder of Consciousness by Sy Montgomery
Narrator Name: Sy Montgomery
Rating the Audio Performance
Love it when a book is read aloud by its author! Montgomery did a great job! Rating the Book's Content/Storyline
Fascinating glimpse into the mysterious world of sea creatures, and also of the very complex workings of a major aquarium. Very informative and engaging!
Gerry
The Secret History by Donna Tartt
Narrator Name: Donna Tartt
Rating the Audio Performance
Ms. Tartt's voice took a bit of getting used to, partially because a female voice speaking for (primarily) male characters was a little disconcerting, and also because of an accent I couldn't quite place. But the narration was always engaging and clear. Rating the Book's Content/Storyline
Especially for a first novel, THE SECRET HISTORY is very well done, though like THE GOLDFINCH, it did seem to go on too long at times and would have benefited from more editing. There were times I felt Tartt was spending too much energy showing off her knowledge of the classics, putting so many quotes in Richard's mouth. But overall, this story of a group of privileged college students who push the boundaries of morality and acceptable behavior, was quite engaging. Though I can't say I liked any of the characters, this exploration of their relationships and the impact of their actions on each member of the group made for an interesting and quite compelling read.
Laura
The Curious Charms of Arthur Pepper by Phaedra Patrick
Narrator Name: James Langton
Rating the Audio Performance
Very good audio performance. Rating the Book's Content/Storyline
The book was okay. After all the hype, I was a bit disappointed, but it's a sweet story and good for a summer listen.
Barbara
In the Company of Cheerful Ladies: The No. 1 Ladies' Detective Agency by Alexander McCall Smith
Narrator Name: Lisette Lecat
Rating the Audio Performance
Excellent! And this is with Botswana accents, speaking English a little differently than I am used to. Many different characters: an elderly man, a man with a speech difficulty, an educated man with lots of problems. All of the shadings of characters brought into the performance. Rating the Book's Content/Storyline
I love this author. This is an early book in series, but I hadn't heard it yet. It fleshes out many situations and characters for me.
Marilyn
W is for Wasted by Sue Grafton
Narrator Name: Judy Kaye
Rating the Audio Performance
I have listened to so many of the Alphabet series and enjoy the voices of the reader. Rating the Book's Content/Storyline
A compassionate portrayal of the homeless as well as a good description of what happens when money is involved.
Barbara
Most Wanted by Lisa Scottoline
Narrator Name: Julia Whelan
Rating the Audio Performance
Julia did a terrific job with the female/male voices. Her inflection was good and the enthusiasm in her voice made me want to hear more. Rating the Book's Content/Storyline
Lisa Scottoline put in lots of twists and turns so that I wanted to know how this puzzle was going to be solved --- even though I sometimes ventured to guess what was coming next!
Sherry
The Other Side of Silence by Phillip Kerr
Narrator Name: John Lee
Rating the Audio Performance
Perfect voice to bring Bernie to life. Rating the Book's Content/Storyline
So interesting that these stories aren't written in chronological order. Having read many of Maugham's works in my earlier days, thoroughly enjoyed his appearance in the book.
Diana
The Messenger by Daniel Silva
Narrator Name: Christopher Lane
Rating the Audio Performance
Excellent!! It was easy to listen to and I was drawn to Mr. Lane's voice. Rating the Book's Content/Storyline
Great! I love this series!
Dianne
Maestra by L. S. Hilton
Narrator Name: Emila Fox
Rating the Audio Performance
Well-read suspense story. Narrator managed to keep you in suspense at many spots in the story. Rating the Book's Content/Storyline
Interesting story about how one thing leads to another to another.
Peggy
The Forever Girl by Alexander McCall Smith
Narrator Name: Susan Lyons
Rating the Audio Performance
Well done --- did not interfere with the story. Rating the Book's Content/Storyline
I found this book a real sleeper. I finished it only because I was hoping it would get better.
Patricia
H is for Homicide by Sue Grafton
Narrator Name: Mary Peiffer
Rating the Audio Performance
As usual, Mary Peiffer did a good job. I'm not hugely fond of how she does the male voices, but it's definitely not the worst I've ever heard. Rating the Book's Content/Storyline
Boy, this story was slow going. What I usually love about Grafton's books is going along with Kinsey as she investigates one thing or another. But the majority of this book consisted of Kinsey being held somewhat hostage in an apartment, and descriptions of her eating and sleeping schedule. There was hardly any actual mystery to it, and by the end I just couldn't wait for it to end. I'm sure hoping the next book in the series improves.
Heather
The Last Sin Eater by Francine Rivers
Narrator Name: Kate Forbes
Rating the Audio Performance
The narrator is perfect. Cadi is ten and her Scottish heritage is depicted clearly in the audiobook. While the story itself was mediocre, the narration kept me craving more! Rating the Book's Content/Storyline
Cadi is growing up in the 1800s in a small village, having immigrated from Scotland. The town has a sin eater, someone who is ostracized and only appears when someone dies. His job is to eat their sins so they can go to heaven. The rule is that no one can even look at the sin eater, but when Cadi's curiosity causes her to peek, she burns with the need to know more about this man. Cadi seeks out the sin eater, and along the way discovers far more than she intended.
Crystal
As Time Goes By by Mary Higgins Clark
Narrator Name: Jan Maxwell
Rating the Audio Performance
Excellent narration. Jan Maxwell does a good job. Rating the Book's Content/Storyline
A good mystery that features Alvirah Meehan and her husband Willy (THE LONELY WINNER and other stories) in supporting but important roles as amateur detectives and friends of the main character. Maybe this is the start of new recurring character(s).
Crystal
The Essential Agatha Christie Stories: Agatha Christie's Best Sleuths Crack Twenty Famous Cases by Agatha Christie
Narrator Name: Hugh Fraser, Joan Hickson, Nigel Hawthorne, David Suchet, Christopher Lee, and Jonathan Cecil
Rating the Audio Performance
Excellent narration is provided by several actors including Hugh Fraser, Joan Hickson and David Suchet who are all three known for their work on screen as Captain Hastings, Miss Marple and Hercule Poirot, respectively. Rating the Book's Content/Storyline
No matter how many times I've read/listened to of Agatha Christie's short stories, they continue to be fabulous.
Jennifer
The Girl You Left Behind by Jojo Moyes
Narrator Name: Clare Corbett and Penny Rawlins
Rating the Audio Performance
Nice contrast between the two characters' narration. Rating the Book's Content/Storyline
Enjoyed the story, but somewhat predictable.
Pamela
Find Her by Lisa Gardner
Narrator Name: Kirsten Potter
Rating the Audio Performance
Kirsten Potter gave an excellent narration of FIND HER by Lisa Gardner. Her various voices matched the characters perfectly; she read with such emotion and grit, it was as if I was hearing the actual characters perform on stage. Her portrayal of Flora Dane and D.D. Warren were exceptional. This was my first D.D. Warren audio, and after doing a search of Ms. Potter I found out she has narrated all of this series. Time to "find her" other audiobooks! Rating the Book's Content/Storyline
The storyline is not for the faint-hearted. It deals with a subject that is dark and disturbing --- kidnapping, rape,torture, murder ---- but also with the psychological terror that survivors experience after they are found. The truth is that we are all capable of doing things we never thought possible until we are faced with such life/death situations. As the character Flora tells herself so often, "No one wants to be a monster". There were several times I was glad I was at my destination so I could turn it off!
Laurie
The Snow Child by Eowyn Ivey
Narrator Name: Debra Monk
Rating the Audio Performance
It is beautifully read with all the magic and intricate fragility that is required for this tale's telling.
Rating the Book's Content/Storyline
In a 1920s Alaska Homestead, a couple held together by resilient love find themselves
in two places at once. A remarkable telling of the harshest of realities of frontier life and fairytale magic.
In the isolation of deep winter, Mable dreams of a child she has always wanted, but lost when the baby she carried for nine months was born dead. On a frigid Alaskan night, the first snow falls with captivating delicacy and Jack and Mable make a child of snow. In the morning the red hat and mittens are gone from the snow child. Only a child's footprints are left in the snow.
This book still remains deep in my thoughts even after reading it weeks ago. It is a haunting tale
of hope, beauty, pain and fairytale magic.
Melissa
High Dive by Jonathan Lee
Narrator Name: Gerard Doyle
Rating the Audio Performance
Doyle convincingly switched to the various British and Irish dialects in this book, which made for an immersive read. Rating the Book's Content/Storyline
I enjoyed the thrilling plot and was pleased to find out it was based on true events.
Jennifer
Delta Lady by Rita Coolidge with Michael Walker
Narrator Name: Rita Coolidge
Rating the Audio Performance
I could have read this but decided hearing Rita read to me would be a better choice. I love her music and was mesmerized by her narrating.
Rating the Book's Content/Storyline
I remember some of the chatter about her and Kris but was really too young to know what was really being said. Don't miss this one, especially if you're a music fan.
Gerry
All That Is Solid Melts Into Air by Darragh McKeon
Narrator Name: Simon Prebble
Rating the Audio Performance
Can't help but love an Irish accent! Prebble animated this story with a beautiful narration. Rating the Book's Content/Storyline
ALL THAT IS SOLID MELTS INTO AIR by Darragh McKeon tells the story of the Chernobyl nuclear accident through the lives of fictional individuals who lived near the reactor in the Ukraine, as well as those involved in the official clean-up effort. It's horrifying to learn how the people of Chernobyl and surrounding areas were deceived about the severity of the incident and how they suffered because of the lack of preparation for such an event, on the theory that it could never happen. Having listened to the audiobook, I just requested a print copy from my library to go back and re-read and capture some of the beautifully evocative language of this novel. 4-1/2 stars!
Heidi
The Truth According to Us by Annie Barrows
Narrator Name: Ann Marie Lee, Tara Sands
Rating the Audio Performance
Great cast performance enhances this story told from several perspectives. Rating the Book's Content/Storyline
This story quickly draws you in as the hidden motives and desires of the many characters are revealed layer by layer.
Ann
Modern Lovers by Emma Straub
Narrator Name: Jenn Tullock
Rating the Audio Performance
Great narrator. Although a single narrator, she easily performs multiple voices. Rating the Book's Content/Storyline
Love this book. My new favorite. As a native of Brooklyn, her details about Brooklyn are right on the mark. Each of the characters is well defined and I cared about each of them. Lively and fun!
Linda
The Price of Salt by Patricia Highsmith
Narrator Name: Cassandra Campbell
Rating the Audio Performance
Perfection for this book. Good change in timber and pacing for different characters. Would listen to her again. Rating the Book's Content/Storyline
What may have been shocking in 1952, when the book was written, may not be as unsettling in 2016. Still the thought processes are interesting. Two women meet when one waits on another in a store and the buyer leaves her gloves behind. As simple as that sounds, no one would have predicted the ride this book would take. Will not be my last Highsmith.
Melanie S.
Everyone Brave is Forgiven by Chris Cleave
Narrator Name: Luke Thompson
Rating the Audio Performance
I don't recall listening to other audiobooks narrated by Luke Thompson, but he did an extraordinary job. He was able to convey both male and female characters without going into a "female" voice, yet his portrayals were so credible. Excellent performance. Rating the Book's Content/Storyline
Probably 4.5 stars for the ending, which was a bit lackluster after such a glorious story. This novel had emotion, angst, humor and interesting characters against a backdrop of some of the most harrowing descriptions of war I've ever read. While I loved LITTLE BEE, this is now my favorite Chris Cleave book. Highly recommended!
Katherine
Whispers in the Reading Room: A Chicago World's Fair Mystery by Shelley Gray
Narrator Name: Tavia Gilbert
Rating the Audio Performance
I think the narrator did a great job. She held my interest and her different voices for either men or women were genuine. I have listened to audios where one gender tried to do a voice for another gender and it sounded fake, like children pretending to be adults. Not with this narrator. Rating the Book's Content/Storyline
Great book. This was the third in the series though. Now I have to find the first two.
Tessa B C
Charlie and the Chocolate Factory by Roald Dahl
Narrator Name: Eric Idle
Rating the Audio Performance
Eric Idle does a marvelous job of narrating the audiobook. All his skill as a voice artist is put to good use creating unique characters. I’d give him 4 stars for his narration. Rating the Book's Content/Storyline
A classic children’s story with a message about good behavior being rewarded. I never read it as a child and I found it a bit over-the-top, but I can see the great appeal that this kind of “fairytale” holds for children.
Syd
Britt-Marie Was Here by Fredrik Backman
Narrator Name: Joan Walker
Rating the Audio Performance
This book, as with other Fredrik Backman books, is read by Joan Walker. She brings each character to life in a superlative way. They could not have picked a better reader.. Rating the Book's Content/Storyline
Fredrik Backman is an amazing author. This is the third novel of his I have listened to on audio. Mr. Backman's other books are: A MAN CALLED OVE and MY GRANDMOTHER ASKED ME TO TELL YOU SHE'S SORRY. You will not be disappointed.
Julie
Catastrophic Happiness: Finding Joy in Childhood's Messy Years by Catherine Newman
Narrator Name: Catherine Newman
Rating the Audio Performance
I love Catherine Newman's melodic voice as she reads her meaningful prose. I catch myself thinking like she talks! I love her voices for her kids. Perfection! Rating the Book's Content/Storyline
Such a wonderful book. I love her stories.
Barbara
Glory Over Everything: Beyond the Kitchen House by Kathleen Grissom
Narrator Name: Santino Fontana, Heather Alicia Simms, Madeleine Maby, Kyle Beltran
Rating the Audio Performance
Several narrators brought the story to life, each one adding to the emotion of the events. Rating the Book's Content/Storyline
A wonderful follow up to the THE KITCHEN HOUSE yet a separate story. Important for us to understand what was endured by many such a short time ago.
Adam
Love May Fail by Matthew Quick
Narrator Name: Cris Dukehart. Lorna Raver, Jim Meskimen, Timothy Fannon, Tonya Campos
Rating the Audio Performance
Loved all the storytellers. They didn't over express themselves and were emphatic with respect to character immersion. Rating the Book's Content/Storyline
I loved the storyline I couldn't stop listening. Matthew Quick is becoming one of my favorite authors.
Deborah Smith
In a Dark, Dark Wood by Ruth Ware
Narrator Name: Imogen Church
Rating the Audio Performance
Narration was very well done. Kept my interest from start to finish. Rating the Book's Content/Storyline
I enjoyed the characters. The story line was different as it went back and forth in time. How did she wake up in a hospital? What happened in that house in the woods? Did she murder someone and if so, who? I figured it out but still enjoyed the book.
Lori
The Good House by Ann Leary
Narrator Name: Mary Beth Hurt
Rating the Audio Performance
Mary Beth Hurt was the perfect person to read this book. The main character, Hildy, came to life with Hurt's performance. I wish she narrated more books; I would go out of my way to listen to them. Disappointed to see that for Leary's most recent book there is a different narrator, but perhaps she wouldn't have been appropriate. I appreciated that Hurt is approximately the right age for the character in THE GOOD HOUSE. Rating the Book's Content/Storyline
I thoroughly enjoyed the book. I thought it was original, realistic in many ways, and found the story compelling. I couldn't wait to see what happened. Being a native of the area where the novel is based made me appreciate it even more. Hildy was a unique character who, despite her faults, charmed me. I think the book helped me see what life is like for alcoholics. I highly recommend the book, especially in the audio format.
Bobbie
Redemption Road by John Hart
Narrator Name: Scott Shepherd
Rating the Audio Performance
Loved the narration. Rating the Book's Content/Storyline
Excellent story!
Beverlee
Britt-Marie Was Here by Fredrik Backman
Narrator Name: Joan Walker
Rating the Audio Performance
I love the way the narrator is Britt-Marie --- she makes her come to life! Rating the Book's Content/Storyline
Love Fredrick Backman's books. His characters are real and whether you like them or not, you can't argue with their feelings or experiences.
Paulette
A Window Opens by Elisabeth Egan
Narrator Name: Julia Whelan
Rating the Audio Performance
Julia Whelan does a wonderful job of conveying all the emotional states of the main character Alice Pearse, who is in the middle of learning how to perform a juggling act of career woman, wife, mother and caring daughter. Her voice evokes just the right mood. Well done! Rating the Book's Content/Storyline
Alice is a suburban mother of three, as well as wife, daughter and a woman who is starting a new literary sales job in New York City. As she adjusts to her career move, while trying to support her husband who has decided to be self-employed, and coping with issues with her parents' health and child care, this very sympathetic character discovers what is important to her. It's a wonderful read that may strike home if readers are part of that "sandwich generation" and many will be cheering for Alice's gutsy attitude.
Don
Made in the U.S.A. by Billie Letts
Narrator Name: Cassandra Morris
Rating the Audio Performance
Audio perfection. Rating the Book's Content/Storyline
Great unpredictable plot.
Alice
Lafayette in the Somewhat United States by Sarah Vowell
Narrator Name: Sarah Vowell, John Slattery, Nick Offerman, Fred Armisen, Bobby Cannavale, John Hodgman, Stephanie March, Alexis Denisof
Rating the Audio Performance
The author's voice is somewhat unusual, but once you get used to it, you only notice how amusing she can be. Rating the Book's Content/Storyline
The story of Lafayette's admiration of George Washington, his coming to America to help fight the English, his life after returning to France and his triumphant return to the US years later (and everything in between) are related. The book has historic accuracy, The outstanding feature is that many facts are delivered tongue-in-cheek and sometimes sarcastically, making it very amusingly entertaining. Seems like the audiobook would probably be more entertaining than reading it would be.
Laura
To Kill A Mockingbird by Harper Lee
Narrator Name: Sissy Spacek
Rating the Audio Performance
I read the book many years ago but Spacek brings it to life with her pleasant reading voice and the way she represents each character. The inflection of her voice, the emotions that emanate makes the listener feel as if they are part of the story as it unfolds. Rating the Book's Content/Storyline
The book is one of my favorites and I am so glad I listened to it by audiobook this time. A great historical classic.
Terry
Redemption Road by John Hart
Narrator Name: Scott Shepherd
Rating the Audio Performance
Mr. Shepherd's voice was perfect; just the way I imagined his voice would sound. Excellent job. Rating the Book's Content/Storyline
The story's protagonist is Elizabeth Black, a 13-year veteran police officer. She is assigned a case that goes horrifically wrong and is put under investigation.
I have a penchant for dark, haunting thrillers that make me cringe; this story gives that and more. Certainly more than I expected. What kind of mind creates such a gruesome and harrowing story? I will not soon forget Mr. Hart's name nor this fascinating, totally engrossing story.
I started listening to the story one afternoon, and there was the hook --- it pulled me right in. By the sixth CD, every muscle in my neck was knotted from tension and holding my breath --- the nerves burning as though someone held a torch to the root nerve endings.
David
The Nest by Cynthia D'Aprix Sweeney
Narrator Name: Mia Barron
Rating the Audio Performance
I found the audio performance to be very enjoyable. The narrator was easy to understand, used distinctive voices for the various characters and was very expressive in her reading. Rating the Book's Content/Storyline
I almost didn't pick up this book because I did not find the cover eye appealing (yes, covers draw me to books). I had read a number of great reviews so I downloaded the book. I found the story very enjoyable. There were a number of side stories that are interwoven into the overall story that were all interesting and did not cause the listener to lose focus, and the growth of the characters in the story was very enjoyable.
Melanie S.
To Rise Again at a Decent Hour by Joshua Ferris
Narrator Name: Campbell Scott
Rating the Audio Performance
The narrator did a very good job conveying the outrageous stream of consciousness thought process of the main character. Rating the Book's Content/Storyline
The writing was very good. The author was very clever in his descriptions of how a dentist relates and thinks about his patients and his craft. Those were the most amusing parts of the book. The ramblings of the main character, however, made me crank up the speed on this digital audiobook to 1.8x so that I could just get it over with. The story made some good points about alienation and belonging, but it was all a bit esoteric for my tastes.
Francisca E B
Theft: A Love Story by Peter Carey
Narrator Name: Simon Vance
Rating the Audio Performance
Simon Vance is superb as the narrator of the audio version. He gives each brother a unique voice, which makes it easy to tell who is narrating. Rating the Book's Content/Storyline
The novel is told by the two brothers in alternating chapters. The plot is convoluted and intricate, as befits a psychological thriller, but I didn’t find it a grippingly fast read. I was interested but puzzled about where this was going for a good third of the novel.
Julie Bockstiegel
The Invention of Wings by Sue Monk Kidd
Narrator Name: Jenna Lamia, Adepero Oduye
Rating the Audio Performance
I have enjoyed hearing Jenna Lamia and her southern accent on other audiobooks, so I anticipated a good read on this one. I was not disappointed. She did a wonderful job portraying Sarah Grimke through different age ranges and with her speech difficulties. Oduye also did a great job voicing the slave Handful. I know I enjoyed this book more by hearing the accents than I would have reading the print version. At the end of the audio, I appreciated the opportunity of hearing Monk explain the genesis of her idea for the book, what was true and was literary license. Rating the Book's Content/Storyline
I was vaguely aware of Sarah Grimke as an abolitionist, but did not know anything specific about her. I felt like I was hearing her speak in this novel, as well as getting the "rest of the story" from the POV of her slave Handful. This book was on my to-read list for a long time and I am glad I finally got around to it.
Betsy
The Forgery of Venus by Michael Gruber
Narrator Name: Eric Conger
Rating the Audio Performance
Very competent performance that doesn't detract from the storyline. Something I would like to have, and don't is a clearer difference between the current day first person (artist/art forger Chaz) and his experiences in the skin of Spanish artist Diego Velazquez in the early 17th century. It sometimes takes a few beats to catch up to which world we're in. Rating the Book's Content/Storyline
In my mind, this book joins several other excellent fiction works about the art world of museums, private collectors, underground art dealing and forgeries.
Patricia Lewis
Miller's Valley by Anna Quinlan
Narrator Name: Brittany Pressley
Rating the Audio Performance
Beautiful voices and inflections for the characters. This is the first audiobook I've completed, and I enjoyed it. Rating the Book's Content/Storyline
This story was a lovely read. I felt part of the Miller family with all the emotions, e.g. sadness, joy, excitement, pride, shock, etc.
Candyce
The Narrows: Harry Bosch Series by MIchael Connelly
Narrator Name: Len Cariou
Rating the Audio Performance
Excellent portrayal of Harry Bosch. Gives all the right vibes of frustration, stoicism and intelligence. Rating the Book's Content/Storyline
One of the best of the Harry Bosch stories. It ties so much together. Thrilling upright to the end.
Susan
Redemption Road by John Hart
Narrator Name: Scott Shepherd
Rating the Audio Performance
Scott was excellent. He did all of the voices and did them all differently so you can always tell which character is speaking. Rating the Book's Content/Storyline
Wow. I listened to this on a drive from NC to Michigan. I was so engrossed in the story that I missed several turns along the way (and I make this drive frequently).
Kathleen
Me Before You by Jojo Moyes
Narrator Name: Susan Lyons, Anna Bentink, Steven Crossley, Alex Tregear, Andrew Wincott, Owen Lindsay
Rating the Audio Performance
The way this was read made me feel as if I was in a theater listening to a play. It was extraordinary! Rating the Book's Content/Storyline
The story raises the question of whether a person can choose to die rather than live with a severe disability. I do know that this will be a cause of much discussion in our book club.
Carol
The Governor's Wife by Michael Harvey
Narrator Name: Steven Hoye
Rating the Audio Performance
Very nice voice to listen to. Rating the Book's Content/Storyline
I enjoy all of Michael Harvey's books. I used to live in the Chicago area so I can connect with many of his landmarks and political comments. He always seems to have a plot twist at the end.
Joan
Nice Girls Don't Have Fangs by Molly Harper
Narrator Name: Amanda Ronconi
Rating the Audio Performance
Amanda Ronconi does an excellent job narrating, giving each character their own voice. I've listened to several of her performances and she is definitely one of the best for narration. Rating the Book's Content/Storyline
Molly Harper's Half Moon Hollow paranormal romances make me laugh out loud at the outrageous heroines. This one is no exception. Jane Jameson is a smart-mouthed librarian turned vampire --- probably one of my own fantasies! I'm looking forward to Book Two continuing the stories of several of the characters, and maybe more romance with Gabriel for Jane.
Carol R.
Dead Wake: The Last Crossing of the Lusitania by Erik Larson
Narrator Name: Scott Brick
Rating the Audio Performance
Thoroughly enjoyed this book because I learned how our politicians and people who should know better, fail to see the warning signs ahead. The sinking of the Lusitania was a sad event that never should have happened. The narrator took me into the story immediately. Rating the Book's Content/Storyline
A nonfiction story that tells about the sinking of the Lusitania, as well as the style of travel and living in the early years of the 1900s. Even knowing the ending of the book right from the beginning, it was very interesting and kept my attention.
Gail
Hamilton: The Revolution by Lin-Manuel Miranda and Jeremy McCarter
Narrator Name: Lin-Manuel Miranda, Jeremy McCarter and Mariska Hargitay
Rating the Audio Performance
Loved this! Mariska was fantastic! Rating the Book's Content/Storyline
I'll never get tickets to the Broadway show, but I loved reading about the whole backstory.
Jan
This Body of Death: An Inspector Lynley Novel by Elizabeth George
Narrator Name: John Lee
Rating the Audio Performance
Perfection. He had the right pacing and inflection, and didn't overact the parts. Rating the Book's Content/Storyline
The mystery revolves around a toddler's murder in the past, and the present-day murder of a young woman. The reader is treated to excellent writing and character development, as well as thought-provoking themes. Red herrings, plot twists and office intrigue abound while Barbara Havers provides a bit of comic relief, and I was kept guessing throughout. Still, the clever way the two cases intersected came as a surprise. If I have one criticism, it's that the novel could have moved along at a brisker pace but George did an excellent job at not only holding my interest, but also in weaving all the plot threads together. I was thoroughly entertained throughout the nearly 24 hours listening time.
peggy hendrick
Winter Solstice by Rosamund Pilcher
Narrator Name: Carole Shelley
Rating the Audio Performance
I love this book. While quite the ponderous read (too much detail sometimes) the audio version is very good. Shelley does a very good job with the accents --- from American to Scottish --- and male/female. I have listened to this same audiobook every year (in December of course) and still love it. Rating the Book's Content/Storyline
As with many of Picher's books there is a wide range and number of characters to keep track of, but the story runs almost seamlessly from person to person and melds the storylines together with ease.
Susan Currant
Miller's Valley by Anne Quindlan
Narrator Name: Brittany Pressley
Rating the Audio Performance
The narrator did a good job differentiating all the female characters. Rating the Book's Content/Storyline
The story was a little slow but it was still a good read.
Diane
The Strangler Vine: A Blake and Avery Novel by M.J. Carter
Narrator Name: Sam Dastor
Rating the Audio Performance
Great job --- sounds like Kenneth Branagh (of course, if Kenneth Branagh read the dictionary I would listen!). He really made me feel like like I could picture India! Rating the Book's Content/Storyline
A good story --- good character development and keen eye for the environment. The storyline did, not, however, really capture me.
Kendra
A Hero of France by Alan Furst
Narrator Name: Daniel Gerroll
Rating the Audio Performance
Excellent narration by Mr. Gerroll; his voice and inflections took me right into the feeling of the novel, and made me feel that I knew the main characters and was invested in their quest. Rating the Book's Content/Storyline
I've always been fascinated with World War II spy/resistance stories, and this one didn't disappoint. The author has created a main character with whom you immediately connect, thanks to his commitment to his quest and his compassion for the people he works with, as well as those he helps. The tension that is necessary in a story of this nature is present at all times, and builds almost imperceptibly, keeping you interested and involved right up to the end.
Sherry
The Nightingale by Kristin Hannah
Narrator Name: Polly Stone
Rating the Audio Performance
The narrator has a beautiful French accent, which lends itself well to the story, set in Paris and the surrounding towns. It makes it feel more authentic. Her emotion comes through in the narration and also makes the story feel more authentic. Rating the Book's Content/Storyline
I probably passed this book by twenty times on my library's audio site, feeling like it was more of a chick lit book. Finally, out of desperation for an audiobook, I downloaded it and was very pleasantly surprised. It appears Ms. Hannah did extensive research on the historical aspect of the story, and the characters are drawn very well, with their individual stories coming out as the book progresses. I have recommended this book often.
Shari
Where They Found Her by Kimberly McCreight
Narrator Name: Tavia Gilbert, Lauren Fortgang, Rachel F. Hirsch, Therese Plummer
Rating the Audio Performance
I really enjoy a book with many different narrators, however, sometimes I did not recognize the new voice talking. You could tell there was a different reader because the person's name was read prior to each chapter. Rating the Book's Content/Storyline
I could not put this book down. I must say I wish I had read the book instead of listening to it. There were a lot of flashbacks and sometimes I could not follow the dates mentioned. A baby is found at the bottom of a creek. Molly, who recently lost her baby, is assigned to cover the baby story for the local paper. Many secrets are revealed in the course of the book. I truly enjoyed it, so much so that I just picked up another of Kimberly McCreight's books. This time, however, I am reading it.
Tessa B C
The Astronaut Wives Club: A True Story by Lily Koppel
Narrator Name: Orlagh Cassidy
Rating the Audio Performance
Orlagh Cassidy does a marvelous job narrating the audiobook. Her pace is good, and she has enough skill as a voice artist to give the women sufficiently distinct voices -- most of the time -- so there is little confusion. Rating the Book's Content/Storyline
The wives of the original U.S. Astronauts had just as much of the “right stuff” as their hero husbands. Koppel reveals their strengths, their weaknesses, their fears and joys, their stumbles and triumphs. These were some stong women, and it’s about time they were recognized.
Deborah
The Twelve by Justin Cronin
Narrator Name: Scott Brick
Rating the Audio Performance
Scott Brick is one of my favorite audiobook narrators and he outdoes himself with THE TWELVE. Rating the Book's Content/Storyline
The second book in The Passage trilogy is just as haunting as the first --- the advancing story and the filled-in history on all the characters is spellbinding. I can't wait to read the finale, THE CITY OF MIRRORS.
Crystal
The Red Box: A Nero Wolfe Mystery by Rex Stout
Narrator Name: Michael Prichard
Rating the Audio Performance
Great narration. Rating the Book's Content/Storyline
Nero Wolfe stories are always great. I had read THE RED BOX years ago but I still really enjoyed this audiobook version.
Sally
The Nest by Cynthia D'Aprix Sweeney
Narrator Name: Mia Barron
Rating the Audio Performance
Very well read. Rating the Book's Content/Storyline
Excellent book.
Cathey Avery
Home by Marilynne Robinson
Narrator Name: Maggi-Meg Reed
Rating the Audio Performance
Reed does a good job of differentiation between characters without making it cartoonish --- especially good with Glory. Rating the Book's Content/Storyline
A beautiful book that tells the story of a wayward son and disappointed daughter of an Iowa preacher and the father's life-long friend. It's very interwoven and is the sequel to GILEAD, which I began reading in hardcover when I was about halfway through listening to HOME. Robinson has a very lyrical way with words and paints a poignant picture of the entire town of Gilead. I am now about half way through LILA, the followup. I feel like GILEAD was much enhanced regarding all the "connections" by the reading of HOME. I highly recommend all three --- Robinson is an artist.
Anita
Tapestry of Fortunes by Elizabeth Berg
Narrator Name: Barbara Caruso
Rating the Audio Performance
I love listening to this narrator. It isn't so much a performance, but rather more like listening to a friend telling you a story. Hard to describe the difference, but you feel like you're part of these women's lives. I plan to listen to other books Ms. Caruso narrates simply based on wanting to have that same experience. Rating the Book's Content/Storyline
I've loved every book I've read by Elizabeth Berg. She tells stories that sound like they've happened to real people. No murders, no violence, no ghosts, just down-to-earth real stories. This book is no exception. The story is from the point of view of a woman who recently lost her best friend to cancer. I didn't realize this plot point before I started the book, I just wanted to read another book by Berg. The story hit me hard in the beginning because I just lost my best friend to cancer, and I felt some of the same emotional upheaval she describes. Not all details matched mine, of course, but I felt enough of a connection to the main character that I was drawn in to the story completely. I just love her narrative style.
Jill
Wildflower by Drew Barrymore
Narrator Name: Drew Barrymore
Rating the Audio Performance
Drew Barrymore reads her own stories. It was great --- just like she was riding in the car with me telling stories. She would get excited, sad, happy and all sorts of other emotions. Rating the Book's Content/Storyline
This book is a compilation of short stories and I enjoyed them all. They were stories you would tell a friend and so it was nice getting to know Drew Barrymore in that way.
Gerry
Certain Girls by Jennifer Weiner
Narrator Name: Michele Pawk and Zoe Kazan
Rating the Audio Performance
I liked that there were two readers, one for the mother and one for the daughter. Both were expressive and clear, and enjoyable to listen to. Rating the Book's Content/Storyline
Light, beach read. Enjoyable but pretty average overall. This story of a mother-daughter relationship complicated by the daughter's discovery of a semi-autobiographical novel the mother had written shortly after the daughter was born was fairly predictable.
Jan
The History of Love by Nicole Krauss
Narrator Name: George Guidal, Barbara Caruso, Julia Gibson and Andy Paris
Rating the Audio Performance
I liked George Guidal's voice the best. He performed the voices of the two older gentleman and I enjoyed their verbal sparring very much! I enjoyed Julia Gibson's voice the least. Due to the listing manner that her story was told, I wished that I was listening on Audible instead of CD so that I could speed her up a bit. Rating the Book's Content/Storyline
I am not sure how I missed this book when it came out, but I enjoyed it very much! So much of current fiction seems to be written either as a vehicle to pack in as much descriptive language as possible or to catch the eye of a film producer with a fast paced, clever plot. This book reminded me of listening to a piece of music. The story built slowly through the main characters, weaving them and the books together, not in a rush to the final resolution but to growing understanding of the characters. Sometimes a passage would sweep you back to a previous scene in the story, reminding you of what you were learning about everyone. The ending is ambiguous but at the same time surprising and satisfying.
Linda
Secrets of a Charmed Life by Susan Meissner
Narrator Name: Alana Kerr
Rating the Audio Performance
The narration was simply amazing. She brought the story to life. Rating the Book's Content/Storyline
This was one of the best stories that I have read or listened to in a very long time. The story alternates between the present day interview of elderly watercolor artist Isabel McFarland and flashbacks to 1940(s) England just prior to the London Blitz. This is an engaging WWII story of two young sisters and the devastating impact of war.
Francisca E B
The Girl on the Train by Paula Hawkins
Narrator Name: Clare Corbett, Louise Brealey, and India Fisher
Rating the Audio Performance
There are three voice performers for this audio: Clare Corbett, Louise Brealey and India Fisher. They do a fine job reading the material, but …I could not easily tell them apart, and with three female narrators (in the story) it was easy to be confused about who was speaking. The chapter headings giving us the character’s name helped somewhat. Rating the Book's Content/Storyline
The girl on the train is Rachel, a depressed alcoholic who is sure she has witnessed important information concerning a missing woman. Or was that accurate? This is a gripping, fascinating psychological thriller. I was hooked from the beginning and didn’t guess the culprit until the reveal. The ending is nothing short of chilling.
Gerry
Forgive Me, Leonard Peacock by Matthew Quick
Narrator Name: Noah Galvin
Rating the Audio Performance
Great reader! Very believable as an 18-year-old boy struggling with depression and anger. Rating the Book's Content/Storyline
Very well-written story about a young man who plots the murder of a classmate, to be followed by his own suicide. The first-person narration was always engaging, as the events leading Leonard to this decision are gradually revealed.
Debbie
In the Heart of the Sea: The Tragedy of the Whaleship Essex by Nathaniel Philbrick
Narrator Name: Scott Brick
Rating the Audio Performance
The narrator had a great voice and, even though this was a book full of facts, he was able to make it seem as if it were a novel. I also liked the fact that he read it in one voice and didn't give the characters different voices. Rating the Book's Content/Storyline
This is an amazing story of human survival. A rogue, very large sperm whale sinks the Essex in the Pacific Ocean. The crew divides itself into three groups and abandons the Essex into three small boats with very few provisions. For the next almost 90 days, these men wander around the Pacific Ocean, starve almost to death -- and in some cases to death -- before eventually some of the men are rescued. Equally as interesting as this main story is the story of whaling, Nantucket, and the story of what happened to the survivors after they returned to Nantucket.
Debbie
A Doubter's Almanac by Ethan Canin
Narrator Name: David Aaron Baker
Rating the Audio Performance
The narrator did a great job and capturing not only the voices but the personalities of the characters. No character was entirely good or entirely bad, and their voices changed depending on the situation. He made the story come alive. Rating the Book's Content/Storyline
I had to stick with this book for a while before I began to appreciate the story. If you are a math wiz, you will probably understand a lot of the nuances that are a part of the story, but if you do not understand higher math the importance of some of math to the story may allude you. Nonetheless, when you can put some of the math aside, and concentrate on the story, it is both a sad story and a story of redemption. Milo, the father, is not a very likeable character and his inability to get along with people and his lack of social graces almost destroys his entire family. However, in the end, the ties that bind Milo and his family eventually bring them together and help them to understand, if not forgive, each other.
Joan
The Snowman by Jo Nesbo
Narrator Name: Robin Sachs
Rating the Audio Performance
The audio performance was excellent. Very easy to understand everything he said. One of the best I have listened to. Rating the Book's Content/Storyline
I absolutely loved this book. I had never heard of the author before but I can't wait to listen to more of his works. The characters were wonderful, the storyline kept me on the edge of my seat. Harry Hole is the detective and what an interesting person. The storyline is very different and the translation to English was very well done. I would highly recommend this book. I just received another audiobook by the same author and same detective. It really holds your interest.
Rebecca
The Crossover by Kwame Alexander
Narrator Name: Corey Allen
Rating the Audio Performance
By listening I was better able to absorb and feel the story as Kwame intended. It was written in a poetic, free-flow style and listening instead of reading brought it to life. Corey gave it a rhythm and it had a musical feel. Rating the Book's Content/Storyline
This book was recommended to me and though I am not a basketball fan, I was totally caught up in the story.
Karen
Wilde Lake by Laura Lippman
Narrator Name: Kathleen McInerney and Nicole Poole
Rating the Audio Performance
Having two performers was a nice touch. One played the young Luisa and the other the adult Luisa, which made the novel more engaging. It made the story easier to follow when the scenes were alternating between past and present time. Both were good performances. Rating the Book's Content/Storyline
After her husband's death, Luisa Brant, a young lawyer with two children, returns to her childhood home in Wilde Lake to live with her father and his housekeeper, Teensy. She needs to stay busy so she takes a job in the Howard County State Attorney's office. She later challenges the incumbent state's attorney and wins the election. After her election, she has much more access to public records, and when she is investigating a murder, she begins to realize that not everything she was told as a child is true. A case that her father tried as state's attorney very likely resulted in a wrongful conviction.
Karen
Wrongful Death by Robert Dugoni
Narrator Name: Dan John Miller
Rating the Audio Performance
Excellent voice for this story. The reading makes this dramatic story very exciting to listen to. Rating the Book's Content/Storyline
Attorney David Sloane represents Beverly Ford, the widow of a national guardsman, in a wrongful death suit. His search for evidence leads to the discovery that the suicides and accidental deaths of the other guardsmen in his unit were actually murders to cover up wrong doing. The parties involved were civilian as well as military, and they were bent on protecting their interests. Attorneys who challenged them were subjected to threats, which also included their loved ones.
Karen
Her Final Breath by Robert Dugoni
Narrator Name: Emily Sutton-Smith
Rating the Audio Performance
The performer does a good job projecting the image of the characters with her voice. Tracy Crosswhite has the very serious image of a homicide detective while the other characters have voices that suit their characters. Rating the Book's Content/Storyline
The search for a serial killer, dubbed "The Cowboy", consumes Detective Tracy Crosswhite. The "Cowboy" targets strippers who are also prostitutes, and cleverly covers his crimes. Tracy's attempt to stop his crime spree is stymied by pressure from her supervisors to quickly catch someone to charge with the crime.
Dawn
The Art of Racing in the Rain by Garth Stein
Narrator Name: Christopher Evan Welch
Rating the Audio Performance
I really like this guy's voice, and he keeps you engaged. No hemming and hawing at all. Rating the Book's Content/Storyline
I really liked how the dog takee on his master, Denny's, and the family's life. Eve, his wife, has brain cancer, and Zoe enters the story as a baby and continues to grow. I was so engaged with the story. I am looking into other things the author has written.
Gail
A Banquet of Consequences (Inspector Lynley, #19) by Elizabeth George
Narrator Name: John Lee
Rating the Audio Performance
The author, Elizabeth George, has chosen a superb narrator for the 19th book in her Inspector Lynley crime novel series. I don’t think that John Lee has ever disappointed me. He plays the roles of males and females equally well and is able to portray the personality of each individual character with an appropriate tone of voice so that their attitudes, sex, personality. Their moods shine through in each scene. Rating the Book's Content/Storyline
The book is well written, making it an easy read. Humor is interjected into the narrative often, which eases the tension of the murder investigation. The story moves along at a steady, even pace. Elizabeth George plants many red herrings into the tale, keeping the reader on the edge of the seat trying to guess the murderer's identity. It does get confusing at times with all of the twists and turns involving the many characters, but in the end, all of the loose ends are tied up with some surprising revelations. This would be a good book to take on vacation as it will take you away from whatever you are thinking about and drop you into the beautiful English countryside that is about to be shattered by the sudden eruption of chaos and murder.
Linda
Boys in the Trees by Carly Simon
Narrator Name: Carly Simon
Rating the Audio Performance
Carly's voice is soothing and lulls us into the story as no one else could. There are occasional additions of her music as background and chapter beginnings or endings. It is not out of place. Rating the Book's Content/Storyline
An inside look at the story we thought we knew. Hearing about her childhood and background and then growing into her early performing years are interesting and important to understanding the Carly Simon who becomes a celebrity of the world. Because our ages are the same, and I've spent time in NYC, LA and the Vineyard, I could identify with all of the names and places that encompass her life. I was saddened by the breakdown of her marriage to James Taylor when it happened. Now, even more so, upon hearing Carly's details. I also appreciated the insight into depression, anxiety and upsets we all face. Another plus, hearing about how songs were developed. I listened to the epilogue several times, appreciating her viewpoint.
Valerie
Boo by Neil Smith
Narrator Name: Kirby Heyborne
Rating the Audio Performance
Well done. Rating the Book's Content/Storyline
Lots of twists and turns in all the right ways. Great read! ( I almost never give anything 5 stars!)
Cathy
Go Set a Watchman by Harper Lee
Narrator Name: Reese Witherspoon
Rating the Audio Performance
At times I wondered if Witherspoon was having a hard time following the story as well as I was, but she did a wonderful job narrating the southern tale. She had a unique voice for each character and even sang a line or two. Rating the Book's Content/Storyline
The book itself confused me. There were parts where she was reflecting on her childhood that I really enjoyed. I felt I needed to read this book with all the to-do that was going on about it. I am really glad that I did.
Melanie S.
Lily and the Octopus by Steven Rowley
Narrator Name: Michael Urie
Rating the Audio Performance
I enjoyed most of Michael Urie's performance of this emotional story. However, the voice he used when the dog was "talking" was so irritating, like nails on a chalkboard. It reminded me of a child with a speech fluency disorder. I am not sure why he chose to use this voice and am curious to know how it was handled in the written form of the book. Toward the end, the strange voice made a bit more sense - there was actually a purpose to it - but it was very grating to listen to. Rating the Book's Content/Storyline
3.5 stars. This book struck an emotional chord with me as a dog lover and as an owner who has had to manage her dog when he became very old and ill. If you are a dog owner presently going through these issues, don't read this book at this moment in time. I did appreciate how Ted's love for his dog Lily transformed him and taught him to open up to receive love. However, there were certain "fantastical" portions of the story that reminded me very much of LIFE OF PI. I found these confusing as to what was real and what was a dream; the reader was led in both directions. It annoyed me that they author spent so much time on the fantasy part of the story. This book has been getting rave reviews. It was emotional but just a so-so read for me.
Margaret
K is for Killer by Sue Grafton
Narrator Name: Mary Peiffer
Rating the Audio Performance
Mary Peiffer makes the listening experience a great escape. I never think of it being a narration - the characters and plots are delivered to my consciousness easier than reading. I believe Mary Peiffer nails Kinsey's character in her vocals. Rating the Book's Content/Storyline
While this was not one of Sue Grafton's best books, I still enjoyed listening. Usually I enjoy the descriptions of her characters, even the minor ones. But this book had so much detailed description of places, it turned me off. And my favorite character, Henry her landlord, was missing. He normally brings out a side to Kinsey's character of less defensiveness.
Susie
Brotherhood in Death by J. D. Robb
Narrator Name: Susan Ericksen
Rating the Audio Performance
Susan Ericksen gets my vote for top narrator. She has narrated the entire series which helps the continuity of the, to date, 42 books. Each character is instantly identifiable. Rating the Book's Content/Storyline
I listened to the entire series. Brotherhood in Death is #42. The initial victim has any number of potential killers. When new victims fall it leads to a discovery that blurs lines of victim and perpetrator. J.D. Robb has a large cast of characters in the In Death series. While Lt. Eve Dallas, murder cop and her billionaire, Irish husband, Roarke are the lead characters, each book seems to highlight members of the extended cast. In this book it is the lovable Mr. Mira. He is related to the first victim, which is the springboard for highlighting the character. The murder mystery line is well developed and plausible. The characters continue to evolve. I enjoy the mystery, the laughs and the emotional connections.
Tessa B C
All the Light We Cannot See by Anthony Doerr
Narrator Name: Zach Appelman
Rating the Audio Performance
The audio version is performed by Zach Appelman, who does a marvelous job. His gift as a voice artist makes it easy to believe he is speaking for a blind teen-aged girl, a confused German boy, an elderly uncle, or a gruff soldier. As an added bonus the audiobook begins and ends with the strains of Clair de Lune, a haunting melody that is a perfect metaphor for this beautifully told story, and one that is still playing in my head. Rating the Book's Content/Storyline
A blind French girl and a young German orphan find their lives intersect in the walled Brittany town of Saint-Malo in August 1944. Doerr gives us wonderful descriptions, letting the reader experience the world as Marie-Laure or Werner does. Doerr peoples the novel with a wide assortment of characters, but the two young people at its core will stay with me for a long time.
Lori
The Pearl That Broke Its Shell by Nadia Hashimi
Narrator Name: Gin Hammond
Rating the Audio Performance
I enjoyed listening to the book. The reader had the right tone and kept me engaged. At first it was hard to distinguish between the unfamiliar names and I had to look up the print version of the book so I could actually see them. Rating the Book's Content/Storyline
It was an excellent book contrasting the lives of two Afghani women, living a century apart. It was sad that the modern day story was not that different than the old story. Both women were strong and smart but oppressed, abused, and devalued. They both found freedom when they posed as males. They both found happiness as mothers but felt so much pressure to have male children. I encourage you to read this book. It is different hearing things on the news and then feeling how that impacts the everyday lives of women. It was so much more profound in story form. Heartbreaking. I was rooting for these women and was satisfied with the ending of the book.
Deborah Ader
When Breath Becomes Air by Paul Kalanithi
Narrator Name: Sunil Malhotra and Cassandra Campbell
Rating the Audio Performance
The narrators were on target for this audio. They did not detract from the story and you felt like you were listening to Paul tell his tale. Cassandra's reading of the epilogue is heartbreaking. Rating the Book's Content/Storyline
A tragic story told with eloquence and heart.
Jennifer
You by Caroline Kepnes
Narrator Name: Santino Fontana
Rating the Audio Performance
The narrator, Santino Fontana, completely brought this book to life. He managed to embody each character and kept the suspense building just as Kepnes had written it. This is definitely one of the best audiobooks I have listened to - the narrator and the content were perfectly matched. Rating the Book's Content/Storyline
The book was highly suspenseful with great dialogue. I highly recommend it for fans of suspense/thrillers.
Suzanne
Redemption Road by John Hart
Narrator Name: Scott Shepherd
Rating the Audio Performance
The performance was good. My only issue was that all the women sounded like Bill Clinton. Rating the Book's Content/Storyline
Loved this book! It is captivating, complicated and satisfying.
Olga
The Goldfinch by Donna Tartt
Narrator Name: David Pittu
Rating the Audio Performance
Excellent! Felt as if there were a number of different novels in one: a Dickensian OLIVER TWIST-like story, a weird Las Vegas novella, drug addiction and alcoholism story, love story, and a heart-stopping stolen art thriller, so there is something for everyone. All very nicely tied together. Very satisfying resolution. Unforgettable characters. Full disclosure: I am a Russian speaker, and had a particular fondness for Boris and his entourage. Highly recommend.
Rating the Book's Content/Storyline
Fantastic, highly memorable, creative, smart, original.
Eileen
Rain Dogs by Adrian McKinty
Narrator Name: Gerard Doyle
Rating the Audio Performance
Mr. Doyle's narration added tremendously to my enjoyment of this book (and the whole series so far.) The setting is Northern Ireland in the 1980s and I hope his is the voice of Inspector Sean Duffy forever! Rating the Book's Content/Storyline
This is the 5th book in the series featuring Inspector Sean Duffy, a Catholic policeman in Northern Ireland in the 1980s. A very difficult situation to be in. The book weaves the tensions of the country with Sean's personal life with the great narration sealing the deal. In the first chapter, Muhammad Ali visits Belfast and Sean is there with the guards. The Greatest shows how he deserved the name. Just the beginning of a very enjoyable book.
Helen
Fall of Giants by Ken Follett
Narrator Name: John Lee
Rating the Audio Performance
The performance was very good. It was quite a challenge but kept me interested throughout. Rating the Book's Content/Storyline
A little factual for my taste but a very agreeable way to get your history lessons.
Barbara
Stoner by John Williams
Narrator Name: Robin Field
Rating the Audio Performance
I enjoyed the narration of this book. Good voice inflection and tone. Rating the Book's Content/Storyline
I liked this book, although it wasn't an uplifting, happy "beach" read. I thought there was a darkness to it - i.e. Edith's character, the way William was treated by his colleagues, William's years of unhappiness. But there was something about William's doggedness, stoicism, and general goodness that made you root for him and hope that he would find some peace and happiness in his life. He never found that, except for a short time when he had an affair with Katherine, one of his seminar students. He never achieved professional milestones; he didn't fight for the relationship with his daughter that he had nurtured during her first years. He had the capacity for love but never fought for it, either in his personal or in his professional life.
Phyllis
The Murderer's Daughter by Jonathan Kellerman
Narrator Name: Kathe Mazur
Rating the Audio Performance
I had not read any Kellerman so I enjoyed this novel aptly read by Ms. Mazur. She used the right voice inflection for both men's and women's voices and kept the story moving in the forward/backward style, which came together beautifully at the end. Rating the Book's Content/Storyline
I will definitely read or listen to more Kellerman fiction. His writing style was appreciated for its clarity and suspense. Recommended for a summer read.
Crystal
The Pursuit: A Fox and O'Hare Novel by Janet Evanovich and Lee Goldberg
Narrator Name: Scott Brick
Rating the Audio Performance
Excellent narration. Rating the Book's Content/Storyline
Book 5 in the Fox and O'Hare series picks up right where THE SCAM, (Book 4), left off. It's not necessary to have read the previous novels but the series continues to be fun and satisfying.
Judy
The Canterbury Sisters by Kim Wright
Narrator Name: Bernadette Dunn
Rating the Audio Performance
Very well done. Rating the Book's Content/Storyline
A gentle, introspective story with moments of humor and challenge.
Patricia
Playing with Fire by Tess Garritsen
Narrator Name: Will Damron and Julia Whelan
Rating the Audio Performance
What can I say, but...great! No complaints. Rating the Book's Content/Storyline
Again, loved all of it.
Eve
Mr. Mercedes by Stephen King
Narrator Name: Will Patton
Rating the Audio Performance
I read a review of King's Hodges' Trilogy and was intrigued so I listened to Will Patton's narration of MR. MERCEDES. Most excellent! Narration of different characters, great story kept me very interested and I have moved right on to Book 2. I had not read much King lately and this is a good reminder of what a good storyteller he is. Rating the Book's Content/Storyline
Very timely story of mentally disturbed man that purposely drives into a group of people and seems to get away with it. But the cop that retired and left the case unsolved just can't let it go. The cast of characters is wonderful.
Renee'
Vinegar Girl by Anne Tyler
Narrator Name: Kirsten Potter
Rating the Audio Performance
Enjoyed the audiobook so much. Rating the Book's Content/Storyline
Great reading.
Vikki
Under the Influence by Joyce Maynard
Narrator Name: Joyce Maynard
Rating the Audio Performance
Excellent. Rating the Book's Content/Storyline
Great story. You just knew something bad was going to happen. Writing was excellent.
Elizabeth
The Love Song of Miss Queenie Hennessy by Rachel Joyce
Narrator Name: Celia Imrie
Rating the Audio Performance
Love the voice and the different characters' voices. The voice is exactly how I thought Queenie would sound. The changes for each of the characters takes on the essence of each one. Rating the Book's Content/Storyline
I think you would need to read the first book, THE UNLIKELY PILGRIMAGE OF HAROLD FRY. I fell in love with the characters and I worried this would not live up to the first book. How wrong I was. Ms. Joyce makes you feel as if you are right with Queenie; you can visualize the smallest details of everyday life. Your heart melts for Queenie, she is such a sweet and sad character. She never feels sorry for herself, but her story will stay with you. If you read the first, don't miss Queenie's love story.
Elizabeth
The House by the Lake by Ella Carey
Narrator Name: Teri Schnaubelt
Rating the Audio Performance
I didn't think there was enough variance of the characters voices. I found the voice to nasal. Rating the Book's Content/Storyline
I wanted more from this novel. I think had I read it instead of listening I might have liked it better. I think the narrator's voice annoyed me. The storyline is from my favorite era, WWII. I just felt the story got bogged down and there was not any real urgency. It was pretty predictable. Granddaughter goes to claim something from the grandfather's past, and then has to save his family home. A love story unfolds and questions are answered. I felt like I had read something similar before. Might be better to read.
Laura
The Summer Before the War by Helen Simonson
Narrator Name: Fiona Hardingham
Rating the Audio Performance
Fiona Hardingham did a wonderful job with narration. Her voices were distinct, which is something I always appreciate. Rating the Book's Content/Storyline
This was a nice book. I think it was a bit predictable, but the characters were interesting and I love it when you get really mad or happy or sad about something a character does, which happens often in this book.
Sherrie
Only in Naples by Katherine Wilson
Narrator Name: Katherine Wilson
Rating the Audio Performance
Well done. Easy to listen to, and her personal inflections and lovely Italian diction make for an enjoyable experience. Rating the Book's Content/Storyline
Took a bit for me to get into her story, but that was probably more me than her story. Loved learning about the culture and food in Naples.
Sharon
Winter Garden by Kristin Hannah
Narrator Name: Susan Ericksen
Rating the Audio Performance
The audio was very clear and easy to understand with appropriate Russian accents. Rating the Book's Content/Storyline
The story was engaging and kept my interest. It followed the lives of two sisters and also had flashbacks to Russia to tell the story of their mother. There were many good characters in the novel who were very well drawn including their flaws and shortcomings.
Sheila
The High Mountains of Portugal by Mark Bramhall
Narrator Name: Yann Martel
Rating the Audio Performance
Well narrated. Rating the Book's Content/Storyline
Three separate parts - interesting, but not as easily "joined" at the end.
Jeanette
The Nest by Cynthia D'Aprix Sweeney
Narrator Name: Mia Barron
Rating the Audio Performance
I thoroughly enjoyed this narration done by Mia Barron. Her dramatic reading adds to this fascinating novel. Rating the Book's Content/Storyline
Melody, Beatrice, and Jack Plumb gather to confront their older brother, Leo, who recently had a terrible car crash while under the influence of drugs. A 19-year-old female is in the car with him and has a foot amputated. Leo's wife divorces him. A joint trust fund, "The Nest" is used by their mother to bail Leo out of his problems, leaving the other siblings without their anticipated inheritance.
Barbara
Me Before You by Jojo Moyes
Narrator Name: Susan Lyons, Anna Bentink, Steven Crossley, Alex Tregear, Andrew Wincott, and Owen Lindsay
Rating the Audio Performance
With many narrators, it brought many cast members with their own personal view of what was going on, from their perspective. Rating the Book's Content/Storyline
Wow! Very unexpected. Hearing it, I expected it to go one way, and it went another. Very touching and thought-provoking.
Marilyn
Capitol Dames by Cokie Roberts
Narrator Name: Cokie Roberts
Rating the Audio Performance
Very easy to listen to. Rating the Book's Content/Storyline
Very enjoyable. Nice to have something about the women of the period.
Syrena
The Regional Office is Under Attack! by Manuel Gonzales
Narrator Name: Sarah Scott, Mike Chamberlain, Natasha Soudek, and Susan Hanfield
Rating the Audio Performance
Fun to listen to when there are multiple performers. Rating the Book's Content/Storyline
Not bad for science fiction - not a genre I typically read.
Carole
Modern Lovers by Emma Straub
Narrator Name: Jen Tullock
Rating the Audio Performance
Narrator did a good job. She had many characters to play, male and female. She had a breezy, fun voice. Rating the Book's Content/Storyline
Modern take on family, love, loss, growth and mid-life crises, all set in Brooklyn.
Linda
Once in a Great City: A Detroit Story by David Maraniss
Narrator Name: David Maraniss
Rating the Audio Performance
Like a professor giving a long history lecture. Just the fact, ma'am. Just the facts. Rating the Book's Content/Storyline
THIS is the Detroit I grew up with - MoTown and the auto companies and even a little bit of my beloved Detroit Tigers. Maraniss's premise is that the problems Detroit has now were seminal in the late 50s and early 60s.
Rebecca
Yes Please by Amy Poehler
Narrator Name: Amy Poehler
Rating the Audio Performance
I'm so glad Amy narrated her own book - as I 'read' the book I felt like Amy was just talking to me about this and that. Her presentation was great and genuine and really funny too! Rating the Book's Content/Storyline
This book gave me a great appreciation for what it is like to go from normal to celebrity. Amy is genuine and self-deprecating and honest (I think) and that formula really worked! I love that Amy herself cannot believe she is friends with certain famous people and can actually call them or email them. When I finished the book, I missed my 'talks with Amy' on the way to work!
Debbie
The Things We Keep by Sally Hepworth
Narrator Name: Barrie Kreinik and Therese Plummer
Rating the Audio Performance
I had no difficulties with the narration of this book. A few months ago, I read her SECRET LIVES OF MIDWIVES, so I had great expectations with this second book. The written word was very readable in MIDWIVES and I experienced the same in the audiobook. I think that it is easier to absorb a book than an audio version, but in this case, Ms. Plummer did an amazing job with her narrative. The storyline in the book was one of back and forth in time, so it might have been more difficult in the audio version, but I didn't experience any significant problem areas in the audiobook. Whatever version you read, you will enjoy this story. Rating the Book's Content/Storyline
THE THINGS WE KEEP was a very sad, but important story. It is hard enough for older people to go through Alzheimer's, let alone two younger people with early onset of this terrible disease. And yet, I would say this was a love story on multiple levels with different characters. Anna and Luke seeking each other out in Rosalind House, an assisted living center, was happy and at other times sad.
There were some very deep themes in this book. Suicide, Aging, Alzheimer's Disease, and how different people cope, including children. It will make a great book club read because there was a lot to talk about.
Victoria
Term Limits by Vince Flynn
Narrator Name: Nick Sullivan
Rating the Audio Performance
The narrator had a multitude of voices so that you could tell the characters apart. I loved his voice. Rating the Book's Content/Storyline
A great political fictional murder mystery. I loved how the corrupt politicians were dealt with. I had trouble turning the book off - I may have missed a few hours of sleep.
Francisca E B
Between Shades of Grey by Ruta Sepetys
Narrator Name: Emily Klein
Rating the Audio Performance
Emily Klein didn’t help with her narration on the audiobook. I found her performance overly dramatic to the point that I wanted to “boo” her. Rating the Book's Content/Storyline
In 1941 Stalin’s Soviet Army invaded Lithuania, Latvia and Estonia, and deported many of the residents of those countries to Siberia. Sepetys based this novel on the story of her own grandparents. There is an important historical story here, but the writing left me cold. The teen narrator really irritated me.
Wendy
Runes by Ednah Walters
Narrator Name: Stephanie Terry
Rating the Audio Performance
This narrator does a wonderful job of putting emotion into her reading and giving each character a different voice. Rating the Book's Content/Storyline
I have been looking for a new series to fall in love with, and I have kissed some toads, but this story has drawn me in and won't let me go! I love how the author uses ancient magic in a current setting. Her spellbinding (yet believable) characters and intriguing storylines make me NEED to know what is going to happen next. It's a definite page-turner and a must-read! I also highly recommend the audiobook! The narrator does a marvelous job of bringing the story alive.
Regina Strand
Steve Jobs by Walter Isaacson
Narrator Name: Dylan Baker
Rating the Audio Performance
Well read with smooth transitions and comfortable voices. This is a biography so there are not many "characters" but there are commentaries from many different people. Rating the Book's Content/Storyline
I knew Steve Jobs was important and intelligent, but this book really gives the inside information about his character and his charisma. Many don't like Steve Jobs, but I am completely enthralled with his incredible insight and artistic aptitude. A great read and a great ride through the history of technology and the computer revolution.
Lonnie
Echo by Pam Munoz Ryan
Narrator Name: Mark Bramhall, David de Vries, Andrews MacLeod, Rebecca Soler
Rating the Audio Performance
Excellent!!! It included music by Corky Siegel. The narrators had to sing and did a great job. There was also harmonica, piano and orchestral music. Rating the Book's Content/Storyline
Four characters connected by a "magical" harmonica that originated in the Black Forest. Three of four lived during WWII, in Germany, Pennsylvania and California. The story was fascinating and entertaining.
Anne
The Martian by Andy Weir
Narrator Name: R. C. Bray
Rating the Audio Performance
Wonderful narration of a very interesting story. Rating the Book's Content/Storyline
It seemed so real that I had to keep reminding myself that this really didn't happen. The humor throughout the story was well balanced with the science and technology.
Josie
When I'm Gone by Emily Bleeker
Narrator Name: Dan John Miller
Rating the Audio Performance
The narrator was quite capable and pleasant to listen to. He had great inflection It was a good book to listen to while driving. Rating the Book's Content/Storyline
A typical Nicholas Sparks-type tear-jerker. After his wife dies, the husband must deal with his grief, and finding out his dead wife's hidden secrets. 
