July 31, 2015 - August 21, 2015
Barbara from Blanchardville, WI
Debbie from Warwick, PA
Lynn from McLoud, OK
Joy
Chronicles of Narnia by C.S. Lewis
Narrator Name: Dramatized
Rating the Audio Performance
The book was dramatized. I have always enjoyed the writings of C.S. Lewis. I listen while on trips most of the time. The audio performance was very well done. Different actors reading different characters, so it was never dull. Rating the Book's Content/Storyline
The story of Aslan, a lion, and how the world was created and how quickly evil came into existence is not so unlike the story of this world of humans. Truly wonderful imagery and a lot for the imagination to stay busy with. Truly love these books and listened or have read many times.
Diane
The Martian by Andy Weir
Narrator Name: R.C. Bray
Rating the Audio Performance
Compelling. Rating the Book's Content/Storyline
Fascinating --- would recommend!
Mary
The Wonderful Wizard of Oz by L. Frank Baum
Narrator Name: Anne Hathaway
Rating the Audio Performance
Anne really makes this a performance. Each character has its own voice, and some are hard to identify as Anne's. Cannot say enough good things about it! Rating the Book's Content/Storyline
Way better than the movie --- and very different, in some surprising ways! For example, the ruby slippers are really silver. And the flying monkeys weren't nearly as terrifying.
Kay
A Fine Romance by Candice Bergen
Narrator Name: Candice Bergen
Rating the Audio Performance
I was very put off by her rather monotonous reading tone. It felt flat. However, I stayed with it and became somewhat accustomed to it, and in all fairness I found out she had had a stroke and felt that may have affected her performance. Rating the Book's Content/Storyline
Her story was fascinating and full of adventures, travels and experiences. Her love of Louis and the story of her daughter were beautifully told. Very interesting as she related all the ups and downs of her career. I also loved hearing from the horses mouth the details of the uproar over Murphy Brown having a baby out of wedlock and the condemnation of VP Dan Quayle.
Tessa B C
The Graveyard Book by Neil Gaiman
Narrator Name: Neil Gaiman, Derek Jacobi, Robert Madge, Clare Corbett, Miriam Margolyes, Andrew Scott and Julian Rhind-Tutt
Rating the Audio Performance
The audio book is masterfully performed by a talented cast of voice artists, including the author. 5 stars for the audio performance! While I don’t usually appreciate the “mood music,” in this case having the Danse Macabre theme really added to the atmosphere. Rating the Book's Content/Storyline
Well, I don’t know why I waited so long to read this Newbery Award winner. It was really delightful. It’s a coming-of-age story, a ghost story, a thriller and a murder mystery. It has all the best of traditional story-telling techniques --- friendship, adventure, obstacles the hero must overcome, villains, an innocent child and more than one surprise.
Terese
The Wright Brothers by David McCullough
Narrator Name: David McCullough
Rating the Audio Performance
The love of history expressed by McCullough only adds to the enjoyment of this narrative. Rating the Book's Content/Storyline
Factual history interspersed with more down-to-earth aspects of the brothers' lives makes this a must read.
Susan
The River of Doubt: Theodore Roosevelt's Darkest Journey by Candice Millard
Narrator Name: Paul Michael
Rating the Audio Performance
Although this is not a new book, it is an excellent nonfiction adventure about one of our most intrepid presidents. I first learned of this author when I read her excellent DESTINY OF THE REPUBLIC. This is nonfiction at its most interesting. Rating the Book's Content/Storyline
Truth can be stranger than fiction. The author does a wonderful research and makes the facts come to life.
Simonne
Mr. Maybe by Jane Green
Narrator Name: Kate Reading
Rating the Audio Performance
I love books narrated by Kate Reading! She really gets into the characterizations and makes the story come alive. Her diction is spot-on in MR. MAYBE. Rating the Book's Content/Storyline
This is an hilarious story of an almost-30 year-old career girl's quest to find love and marriage...not necessarily in that order. The main character, Libby, finds out a lot about herself, but must go through quite a bit to get there. Truly enjoyable with a great ending.
Linda
The Hare with Amber Eyes: A Family's Century of Art and Loss by Edmund de Waal
Narrator Name: Michael Maloney
Rating the Audio Performance
Very good performance! I liked the accent and was kept engaged with the story.
Rating the Book's Content/Storyline
It was fascinating to hear the story of the netsuke collection inherited by Edmund de Waal. He was a renowned ceramicist and the fifth generation to inherit the small and exquisite collection
of netsuke. He traces the history through Paris, Vienna and World War II.
Janice
Dark Places by Gillian Flynn
Narrator Name: Rebecca Lowman, Cassandra Campbell, Mark Deakins and Robertson Dean
Rating the Audio Performance
The voices chosen to reflect the major characters in this story were an excellent fit with those characters. All four narrators did a great job with their voice inflections and the cadence of reading. I always enjoy Cassandra Campbell as a narrator, and have now added these other three as favorites as well. Rating the Book's Content/Storyline
Gillian Flynn is certainly a creative writer, one who can draw the reader in quickly so that you keep reading, sometimes against your own better judgment, to find out what happened. I liked this one better than her others; the characters are much more sympathetic than the despicable inhabitants of GONE GIRL, and the behaviors of the lead character are not quite so troubling as those of the self-mutilator in SHARP OBJECTS. The casual yet horrible violence and the havoc on the lives left in its wake made this a difficult read at times, yet there is some redemption in the end.
Patricia
The Brass Verdict by Michael Connelly
Narrator Name: Peter Giles
Rating the Audio Performance
The audio performance wasn't bad, but it certainly wasn't my favorite. I didn't find the narrator to be believable --- I felt like his performance often felt forced and wooden. That made it sometimes hard to get into the story as much as normal. For example, when he tries to do a character that he feels is more posh, his interpretation came off sounding more like surfer dude or valley girl. Kind of off-putting. And I didn't like how he did the female characters. He always made them sound whiny or annoyed. Rating the Book's Content/Storyline
I really liked this book. The Harry Bosch series is my all time favorite and I decided to read this book since he makes an appearance in it. I really liked both the mystery of the story as well as the courtroom drama. Really kept me engaged all throughout. I'm curious to see where Michael Connelly takes Mickey Haller next!
Laura
At the Water's Edge by Sara Gruen
Narrator Name: Justine Eyre
Rating the Audio Performance
Justine Eyre did a nice job with the male characters and accents in this narration. However, her regular reading voice (for the main character) was a nerve grater. She made me feel like Maddie was whiny and always in pain. I almost gave up on it a few times, and I'd like to think that if I read the book rather than listened, she might not have left me feeling this way. Rating the Book's Content/Storyline
It was an OK book. I liked that it was set in Scotland, and I actually liked that they were searching for the Loch Ness monster --- though the reasons were lame. I like that there were several plot twists (no spoliers here). I didn't care for the main character too much at all (see comment on narration), and the romance in it was pretty weak.
Deb
The Beautiful Mystery: A Chief Inspector Gamache Novel by Louise Penny
Narrator Name: Ralph Cosham
Rating the Audio Performance
Perfect narrator for this series. He spoke exactly how you hear Armand Gamache speaking in your head! Rating the Book's Content/Storyline
A mysterious death at a remote monastery. As always Louise Penny rolls out the clues perfectly to keep you in suspense until the end. As soon as I finished this, I immediately had to go on to the next in the series: HOW THE LIGHT GETS IN.
Ann
Carthage: A Novel by Joyce Carol Oates
Narrator Name: Susan Ericksen and David Colacci
Rating the Audio Performance
Very good. Rating the Book's Content/Storyline
Gripping --- one of those books you wish would never end!
Deborah
All the Light We Cannot See: A Novel by Anthony Doerr
Narrator Name: Zach Appelman
Rating the Audio Performance
The narrator's performance added to the overall story without being over done. Rating the Book's Content/Storyline
I enjoyed the story of WWII from a different viewpoint, but it fell flat in places.
Clarissa
Arcadia by Lauren Groff
Narrator Name: Andrew Garman
Rating the Audio Performance
Andrew Garman does a very good performance when narrating the book. I enjoyed how he dramatized the dialog as he read it out loud. Rating the Book's Content/Storyline
The concept of the book and some parts of it are interestingly developed by Groff. However, there are also parts that could have been executed in a better way. I had good expectations before reading the book but, in the end, it was not as good as I thought it would be. I do recommend it to those who enjoy stories like the one in the film, BOYHOOD.
Francisca E B
The Narrow Road to the Deep North by Richard Flanagan
Narrator Name: David Atlas
Rating the Audio Performance
The audio version is capably performed by David Atlas. My husband tried listening but he couldn’t tolerate/understand the Aussie accent, so he read the text version instead. I was not bothered by the accent. Atlas reads at a good pace, but he does not do much to differentiate the various characters (other than the handful of women). Rating the Book's Content/Storyline
3.5*** A novel told in three parts – before, during and after WWII. Australian surgeon Dorrigo Evans experiences the horrors of a Japanese POW camp during the war, but Flanagan seems to be saying that the drama of everyday life sometimes rivals that of war. I can believe this, but I wish he had done more to SHOW this.
Linda
The Worst Hard Time: The Untold Story of Those Who Survived the Great American Dust Bowl by Timothy Egan
Narrator Name: Patrick Lawlor
Rating the Audio Performance
The narrator did a great job with what could have been a boring rendition of people's trials without getting bogged down in the minutiae.
Rating the Book's Content/Storyline
Jarring look at experiences of people affected by the dust bowl. The reach was greater than the Plain States. It reached to both coasts and all levels of society.
Rachelle
In the Unlikely Event by Judy Blume
Narrator Name: Kathleen McInerney
Rating the Audio Performance
Kathleen McInerney does a fabulous job reading IN THE UNLIKELY EVENT. Rating the Book's Content/Storyline
Okay, I admit I am a die-hard Judy Blume fan and I have read all of her books. I really enjoyed IN THE UNLIKELY EVENT about three airplane crashes in one area. I felt the characters were likable and realistic. I enjoyed each of their stories. I really felt for Miri as she grows up and learns some hard facts about life. I think I would probably give the book 5 stars if Miri's mom's remarriage had been fleshed out a little more.
Rachelle
Last One Home by Debbie Macomber
Narrator Name: Rebecca Lowman
Rating the Audio Performance
A very enjoyable book to listen to. Rating the Book's Content/Storyline
Okay, I did not want to like this book. Early on I could easily see where the book was going. The characters were predictable. But I truly enjoyed the unfolding of the characters. I felt like the book kept me engaged. This is my first Debbie Macomber book. I don't see myself rushing to read another of her books, but if someone in book club recommended it, I would go for it.
Rachelle
Every Fifteen Minutes by Lisa Scottoline
Narrator Name: George Newbern
Rating the Audio Performance
The narration is pitch-perfect and enjoyable. Rating the Book's Content/Storyline
OMG, this book had me early on. It wasn't the typical mystery I have read. I loved learning about Dr. Parrish's routine and goings on as a psychiatrist. I enjoyed his dealings with his daughter and colleagues. However, my favorite part of the book was the pure evil of the unnamed sociopath! The sociopath's thoughts are interspersed throughout the book and are truly chilling (including some childhood memories)!
Rachelle
The Devil in the White City by Erik Larson
Narrator Name: Scott Brick
Rating the Audio Performance
I find Scott Brick's narrating quite annoying. The twist to make every word sound scary was unnecessary. The writing was enough -- didn't need the extra emphasis. I wish I read this book rather than listened. Rating the Book's Content/Storyline
A scary true story-- written like a mystery novel. Being a true event made the story a lot scarier for me. Would love to listen to another book by this author, but with a different narrator.
Vikki
The Swimming Pool by Holly LeCraw
Narrator Name: Kathe Mazur
Rating the Audio Performance
Great performance. Rating the Book's Content/Storyline
Many of the characters annoyed me, so selfish, but I enjoyed listening to this story.
Ricki
I'd Tell You I Love You, But Then I'd Have to Kill You by Ally Carter
Narrator Name: Renee Raudman
Rating the Audio Performance
The narrator actually made the protagonist rather annoying, and it took me a while to warm up to it. Rating the Book's Content/Storyline
Fun, but I honestly expected more mystery or suspense, not just all young YA romance.
Linda
Hitler's Last Days by Bill O'Reilly
Narrator Name: Robert Petkoff
Rating the Audio Performance
Did a good job reading, especially for a documentary. Rating the Book's Content/Storyline
Very informative. I enjoy history a lot more now that I am older.
Lori
The Obituary Writer by Ann Hood
Narrator Name: Tavia Gilbert
Rating the Audio Performance
The reader did a good job narrating the book, which was written alternating between two characters in different time periods. I had no difficulty following whose story was being told. I would be happy to listen to other books by the reader. Rating the Book's Content/Storyline
I think the title of the book is a little misleading for what the book was really about. Nevertheless, I found the stories compelling and enjoyed both of the alternating stories.
Sally
The Rosie Project by Graeme Simsion
Narrator Name: Dan O'Grady
Rating the Audio Performance
This book is superbly read and really contributes to the enjoyment of the book. It is just perfect. Rating the Book's Content/Storyline
This was an intriguing and very funny book about Don Tillman, a professor, who decides to design a project to choose a suitable mate. The book was extremely enjoyable.
Melinda
Radiant Angel by Nelson DeMille
Narrator Name: Scott Brick
Rating the Audio Performance
Scott Brick is probably my favorite audiobook reader, and he has John Corey's characterization down to a tee! He can make me laugh, even with a serious storyline. Rating the Book's Content/Storyline
John Corey is always in trouble with his bosses as he doesn't always follow their rules or orders. He is back in New York, assigned to watch Russian officials. Looks like the Russians are going to destroy New York City with a nuclear weapon. The book follows the Russians and John Corey. The usual thriller from this author and the usual dose of humor from John Corey.
sue
Ali in Wonderland by Ali Wentworth
Narrator Name: Ali Wentworth
Rating the Audio Performance
I love audiobooks of humorists like Ali, David Sedaris, Mindy Kaling. Rating the Book's Content/Storyline
Reminiscing and funny stories about her life.
Pamela
The Beekeepers Apprentice by Laurie R. King
Narrator Name: Jenny Sterlin
Rating the Audio Performance
Jenny Sterlin does an excellent job of changing her voice for the characters so, before too long, you know who is speaking (or thinking) just by her voice. And she reads very clearly -- sometimes when listening to an accented speaker, I have difficultly understanding some of the words. Not so with Jenny Sterlin. Rating the Book's Content/Storyline
My husband and I listened to this by chance on a driving trip and fell in love. We've since listen to all the "Mary Russell" books, and are always watching for the newest one. We've even recommended this book to our servers when we stop to eat while on the road. And what an original concept for a story -- Sherlock Holmes' (ultimately) wife -- this first book is just when they meet.
Loretta
Speaking in Bones by Kathy Reichs
Narrator Name: Katherine Borowitz
Rating the Audio Performance
Ms. Borowitz does a great job giving voice to the characters. You really get a feel for their personalities. The first chapter with its sound effects gets you right into the mood of the book. It is a shame that there were not more sound effects throughout the book since it really added depth to the introduction. Rating the Book's Content/Storyline
Kathy Reichs always advances your knowledge of forensic anthropology in an entertaining, educational and interesting way. Who knew that chemotherapy in some cases could erase fingerprints! For the followers of Reich's series about Temperance Brennan, this book advances the lives of Brennan and Ryan and also other characters, and makes you look forward to the next book in the series.
Claudia
Big Little Lies by Liane Moriarty
Narrator Name: Caroline Lee
Rating the Audio Performance
I love listening to books - this is my most recent. The audio performance was very good. I could differentiate between characters in the story. It was well read and gave expression to the different characters. I could feel their joy or distress. Rating the Book's Content/Storyline
I liked the way the story was presented. It kept you wondering who it was that died and how. The story unfolded chapter by chapter to reveal a little more of each character's background and what was behind their current actions. And then the end had several twists that I did not see coming. Liked the book a lot.
Lewis
The Devil's Punchbowl by Greg Iles
Narrator Name: Dick Hill
Rating the Audio Performance
Somewhat difficult to understand at times. However, otherwise good. Rating the Book's Content/Storyline
This book is not for the faint of heart with both graphic violence and sex. However, it is a good thriller.
Wendy
The Son by Philipp Meyer
Narrator Name: Will Patton, Kate Mulgrew, Scott Shepherd
Rating the Audio Performance
With three different narrators reading the passages attributed to the three main characters (Eli, Peter and Jeanne McCullough) it is easy to distinguish what time period you are in. Will Patton has long been a favorite narrator and he seems perfect for the part of Eli, who founds the McCullough dynasty. Rating the Book's Content/Storyline
Ranging from the 1800s to almost present day, this book follows three members of the McCullough family who started with a huge ranch in Texas and ended with an oil empire. Eli McCullough, the founder, was stolen by Comanches as a young boy and was adopted by an elder of the tribe. In order to survive he forgot his white background, but as the whites pushed further he had to return. In between his story we have the diary entries of his son, Peter, and the reminiscences of his great-granddaughter, Jeanne, so we know that he lived for a long time and that he was ruthless in protecting his land. I couldn't help but compare this book to LONESOME DOVE, a book I loved, and I was not disappointed.
Suzy
Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets by J.K. Rowling
Narrator Name: Jim Dale
Rating the Audio Performance
Jim Dale is my favorite audiobook narrator of all time. I've been eager to read other books and been put off by a narrator whose voice just doesn't fit the characters, style, or accents, which ruins the experience. Mr. Dale is a skilled and gifted narrator and not just for audiobooks. Rating the Book's Content/Storyline
As an adult reader of YA books I've found no series I've loved as much as the Harry Potter books. Rereads and re-listens enable the reader to appreciate the depth of the stories and nuances that are probably not discovered on a first reading or listen.
Melanie S.
Magic Hour by Kristin Hannah
Narrator Name: Suzanne Toren
Rating the Audio Performance
Suzanne Toren a prolific audiobook performer. However, she sounded a bit older than I thought the narrator of this story should have been since most of the characters were in their late 30s. I am not sure of Ms. Toren's age, but she had an older sound to her voice. This audiobook was produced in 2006. I think the industry has come a long way and improved quite a bit since that time. I found the music at the beginning and end of each disc to be unnecessary and the occasional and random altered voices, such as a metallic sounding voice when the police chief was talking on her walkie-talkie, to be distracting and jarring in the middle of the performer's reading of the book. Rating the Book's Content/Storyline
Good summer reading/chic lit with some depth to it. A feral child finds her way to the small town of Rain Valley, Washington. A child psychiatrist, Julia, who grew up there but has since moved away, is summoned by her sister, the chief of police, to come home and help this girl. Everyone's life is changed by the child's arrival as they try to find her true identity and the circumstances of her being left to live in the woods alone. Kristin Hannah's writing has evolved since 2006 when this book was published, but this was, nonetheless, a heartfelt story.
Diane
The Signature of All Things by Elizabeth Gilbert
Narrator Name: Juliet Stevenson
Rating the Audio Performance
A captivating story. Juliet Stevenson did it justice! Rating the Book's Content/Storyline
A beautiful historical fiction beginning in Europe in the late 1700s, traveling into the U.S. in the early 1800s, with many travels throughout the world in between, on botanical searches to fulfill an interesting life.
Melanie
All the Light We Cannot See by Anthony Doerr
Narrator Name: Zach Appelman
Rating the Audio Performance
I was mesmerized by the audio. Subtle but perfect transitions between characters. Rating the Book's Content/Storyline
The story was not what I expected at all --- but not in a bad way. One of the finest books I read/listened to last year. Sad though.
Patricia
The Final Detail by Harlan Coben
Narrator Name: Jonathan Marosz
Rating the Audio Performance
This is the same narrator as in the previous Myron Bolitar books, so it's nice because his voice is familiar --- it's like he 'becomes' Myron. I like him as a narrator. He does a good job of distinguishing the different characters without going overboard. I especially like his take on Wynn's voice. He also does a really good job with the sarcastic humor that is Harlan Coben's trademark. Rating the Book's Content/Storyline
This is the sixth book in the Myron Bolitar series and I really enjoyed it. It kept me interested and guessing all throughout. It certainly wasn't predictable --- even as he was doing the final 'reveal' of the mystery, it still wasn't super obvious. I hate when mystery books become predictable halfway through. I also love the heart that Harlan Coben gives his characters. Myron's friendships and his relationship with his parents is really touching. Makes him a well-rounded character.
Heather
Ghost War by Alex Berenson
Narrator Name: George Guidall
Rating the Audio Performance
Guidall's voice is deep and clear. He is able to switch characters but maintain the intensity. I appreciate that he can be heard in the car over traffic noise without adjusting the volume. In addition, his voice is inside my head with the main character now. Rating the Book's Content/Storyline
This is a series that is intense and enjoyable. The main character and his girlfriend have been through experiences that would haunt any of us as they try to do what's right for the United States. In this book, John Wells finds himself trying to stop a war between China and the United States.
Cathey
Go Set a Watchman by Harper Lee
Narrator Name: Reese Witherspoon
Rating the Audio Performance
Witherspoon's narration is spot on --- it's hard to imagine anyone but a true southern woman doing this, and she surpassed my expectations. What the store lost in content due to lack of final edit, her narration made up for. I was transported to another place and time. Rating the Book's Content/Storyline
I loved this book, though not as much a MOCKINGBIRD. And it's very hard to comment objectively. Having read MOCKINGBIRD more than a few times, there's no way to "not know" Atticus and there's no way not to be, in some ways, shocked by his words. But it was another time and place and in that time and place, in some ways (but not all) it's hard to fault him his opinions. I think the book would have benefited from some judicious edits, and there is no way you can say this book is as strong as MOCKINGBIRD, but it was still a joy to listen to --- as I have twice.
Deborah
One Plus One by Jojo Moyes
Narrator Name: Ben Elliot, Elizabeth Bower, Nicola Stanton, Steven France
Rating the Audio Performance
I tend to enjoy ensemble readings. The variations in voices stave off the possibility of tuning out a droning voice. These narrators did a great job as there were many different character's voices to portray. The lovely accent was nice too. Rating the Book's Content/Storyline
I found the first half of the book to be a bit boring if I'm honest. Maybe it was because they were on the world's worst car trip. However, in the end, I was rooting for each of the main characters to rise above his or her flaws and do the right thing so they could return to happiness.
Debbie
Takedown Twenty by Janet Evanovich
Narrator Name: Lorelei King
Rating the Audio Performance
She does a good job of changing the voices of the characters. Rating the Book's Content/Storyline
This series has a very definite style that really doesn't change much from book to book. Uncle Sunny is the bond skipper this go round. Good book to listen to while driving as it is pretty simplistic, and if you lose your train of thought while listening you haven't lost much of the story. I consider this a "fluff" read/listen. They are always humorous.
Patricia
Nine Dragons by Michael Connelly
Narrator Name: Len Cariou
Rating the Audio Performance
I've listened to other Michael Connelly books read by Len Cariou and he just isn't my favorite. He does all right with Harry Bosch's voice, but when it comes to doing the secondary characters, sometimes it's just plain awful. At times, his voice sounds as if he's holding his nose! He makes a Chinese man sound like a cave man. And his attempts to do female or children voices aren't the greatest either. He's not the worst I've ever heard, but I've definitely heard better. I'm really hoping the next book in the series is read by someone else. Rating the Book's Content/Storyline
I'm making my way through the entire Harry Bosch series. I enjoyed this one. I wouldn't say it was my favorite, but I think that's just mainly because it wasn't the type of crime that interests me. It has a lot to do with Chinese gangs and the Triad, and that sort of thing isn't really my style. But Connelly's writing is good as usual. And I like where the entire back story in general is headed. I'm glad that Maddie will be with Bosch now (I was never a fan of Eleanor). So I'm excited to see what's up next!
Vikki
Hausfrau by Jill Alexander Essbaum
Narrator Name: Mozhan Marno
Rating the Audio Performance
Great. Very clear. Rating the Book's Content/Storyline
Depressed, unhappy and bored housewife who has multiple affairs to feel better. I can see why a lot of people didn't like this book; you had to stick with it. Sad ending. I liked it though.
Suzanne
Station Eleven by Emily St. John Mandel
Narrator Name: Kirsten Potter
Rating the Audio Performance
She was fine. I have heard better performances. Sometimes she was a bit emotionless. Rating the Book's Content/Storyline
While the storyline is often scarily realistic, the book does end on a note of hope.
Linda
Redeeming the Dream: The Case for Marriage Equality by David Boies and Theodore B. Olson
Narrator Name: Mike Chamberlain
Rating the Audio Performance
Well done. No complaints. Rating the Book's Content/Storyline
David Boies, who represented Al Gore, and Ted Olson who represented George W. Bush in the Florida 2000 election, team up to fight for something they both believe in despite their opposing political views. Marriage equality for gay and lesbians. This book details the four year fight to overturn Proposition 8 in California, opening the way for the most recent Supreme Court decision from this past June.
Julie
I Take You by Eliza Kennedy
Narrator Name: Julia Whelan
Rating the Audio Performance
This was one of those cases where I probably wouldn't have continued to read a hard copy of this book, but I kept listening due to the excellent narration of the audiobook. Whelan does a great job of voicing both male and female characters. The many female characters are easily distinguishable by her changes of accents, age range, etc. The pacing is just right and she handles the mood swings, humor and emotional parts with ease. Rating the Book's Content/Storyline
This was kind of an unusual "chick lit" story in that the main character has the guy, but is not sure she wants him. She is re-thinking her upcoming wedding and wonders if the guy is "too good" for her, and if she can be faithful to him. The main character wasn't terribly appealing and didn't seem too realistic for being a lawyer, but there are a lot of humorous supporting characters which add to the main story.
Marianne
Dead Wake by Erik Larson
Narrator Name: Scott Brick
Rating the Audio Performance
Clear voice with a good voice, making it easier to listen during the very technical parts of the plot. Rating the Book's Content/Storyline
Events and details leading up to the demise of the Lusitania --- very long and tedious. Story could have been told with less prior information.
Linda
What I Talk About When I Talk About Running by Haruki Murakami
Narrator Name: Ray Porter
Rating the Audio Performance
Well done. Felt as if Murakami were reading it himself - all the attraction to the sport was in the narrator's voice. Rating the Book's Content/Storyline
Haruki Murakami is a well loved author among my friends. I found this audio available through the Ohio eBook project and thought it might be a good introduction to the author. I was right. He writes with intelligence and I can tell he is a passionate and disciplined person. I look forward to reading more of his works.
Carol
Angle of Repose by Wallace Stegner
Narrator Name: Mark Bramhall
Rating the Audio Performance
One reviewer criticized the narrator. In my opinion, the narrator takes you away immediately into the author's voice. He has the ability to sneer just like the wheelchair-bound protagonist would. Delightful performance. Rating the Book's Content/Storyline
Embarrassed that I han't read this earlier. It was chosen by my book club this year.
Melanie S.
Our Souls at Night by Kent Haruf
Narrator Name: Mark Bramhall
Rating the Audio Performance
Mark Bramhall's resonant voice and excellent delivery lent itself to this simple and heartfelt story.
Rating the Book's Content/Storyline
As stated above, a simple yet very heartfelt story about two people in their 70s coming together in an unusual way to combat their loneliness. This is a book about it never being too late to find happiness, but more importantly how one's definition of happiness can change throughout the years. This was a very quick read, less than 200 pages in written form, so it's a great book to read in between longer novels.
Melanie S.
The Marriage of Opposites by Alice Hoffman
Narrator Name: Gloria Reuben, Tina Benko and Santino Fontana; also Alice Hoffman- afterword
Rating the Audio Performance
This has become one of my top two audiobooks, the other being THE GOLDFINCH. The two female performers in particular did an extraordinary job of reading their chapters. I am guessing that I enjoyed this book more by listening than I would have had I had just read it. If there are awards for audiobook performances I predict this will be a nominee, if not the winner. I cannot recommend the audio version of this book enough!! Rating the Book's Content/Storyline
4.5 stars. A beautifully written story of the life of Rachel Pomie Petit, the mother of impressionist painter Camille Pissarro. Set mostly on the island of St. Thomas but also in Paris in the 1800s, the interesting life of this independent woman and her unique life circumstances are described. Alice Hoffman is a magical writer and her descriptions of St. Thomas transport the reader. Learning of the history of St. Thomas during this time period was also fascinating. Highly recommended!
Crystal
Murder, She Wrote: Killer in the Kitchen by Jessica Fletcher and Donald Bain
Narrator Name: Sandra Burr
Rating the Audio Performance
The reader is excellent. Rating the Book's Content/Storyline
At the beginning of this story, amazingly enough there are still people in Cabot Cove, ME. Then there is one less.
Dottie
The Liar by Nora Roberts
Narrator Name: January LaVoy
Rating the Audio Performance
Very good but I was unfamiliar with this narrator. I'd be happy to have more books read by her. Rating the Book's Content/Storyline
Nora Roberts' stories are enjoyable for me and THE LIAR was very interesting and full of suspense as well as the loving actions of a wonderful family. Really enjoyed most of the characters too.
Debbie
The Girl on the Train by Paula Hawkins
Narrator Name: Claire Corbett, Louise Brealey and India Fisher
Rating the Audio Performance
I first read the book a few months back. I noticed that there were three readers for the audiobook, so I reserved a copy from my local library. I actually was disappointed in the audio version. The back and forth for the three main characters somehow became distracting when listening to the book. I found my mind wandering, and I had to keep going back to listen to it over again. I listen to audiobooks in the car and when I walk in the mornings. This was not the first time I listened to a book on tape. Rating the Book's Content/Storyline
I still enjoyed the book but not as much when listening to the audio version.
Teri
Our Souls at Night by Kent Haruf
Narrator Name: Mark Bramhall
Rating the Audio Performance
I could listen to Mark Bramhall read anything (including the phone book)! Rating the Book's Content/Storyline
This is my first Kent Haruf story. The audio was 3-1/2 hours long. I was surprised at how I quickly related to all of the story's characters.
Debbie
Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone by J.K. Rowling
Narrator Name: Jim Dale
Rating the Audio Performance
Jim Dale has the perfect voice for this story. He brought the story to life. I have read the entire series but wanted to go back and listen to them. I am glad that I did. Rating the Book's Content/Storyline
I love the Harry Potter series.
Debbie
The Book of Speculation by Erika Swyler
Narrator Name: David Pittu, Katherine Kellgren and Ari Fliakos
Rating the Audio Performance
The narrators were wonderful. This is a really quirky story, and I am not sure that I would have stuck with it in print. The narrators really made the story come to life. Rating the Book's Content/Storyline
Very quirky.
Debbie
The English Spy by Daniel Silva
Narrator Name: George Guidall
Rating the Audio Performance
I thought the narration was very good given the number of different characters --- each with their own voice and accent. Rating the Book's Content/Storyline
This is not my usual genre and there was a lot of violence in this book. However, I liked the main character very much.
Sheila
A Man Called Ove by Fredrik Backman
Narrator Name: George Newbern
Rating the Audio Performance
George Newbern is the perfect narrator for this book! He nailed every character --- especially Ove. Rating the Book's Content/Storyline
This is such a charming, heartwarming story. It's a beautiful and gentle reminder that everyone has a backstory. First impressions be gone --- don't judge others...get to know them and be kind. I will read anything written by Backman. Next up: MY GRANDMOTHER ASKED ME TO TELL YOU SHE'S SORRY.
sandy
The English Spy by Daniel Silva
Narrator Name: George Guidall
Rating the Audio Performance
Very good. I've listened to several books read by Mr. Guidall and have enjoyed them. He seems to get the pacing of the text correct --- and with this story that's important. He even managed to get the different characters to sound different! Rating the Book's Content/Storyline
Wow. Daniel Silva continues his Gabriel Allon series in grand style! It wasn't as difficult to get caught up with the characters as I'd feared, based on comments from my father and husband who'd both already finished the book in the paper version. They don't understand how I am willing to "take so long" and listen instead of reading!
Carol
Fourth of July Creek by Smith Henderson
Narrator Name: MacLeod Andrews and Jenna Lamia
Rating the Audio Performance
This dual narration is a pleasure to listen to. Andrews switches characters flawlessly, bringing a unique voice to each and allowing the listener to always know who is speaking. Lamia portrays the troubled Rachel with a subtle interpretation, matter of fact in its delivery that is almost eerie to hear. At 13 discs, this requires some commitment but you shouldn’t be bored or disappointed. Superior performance! Rating the Book's Content/Storyline
Social worker Pete Snow is burdened with a large caseload in 1980’s Montana. One that quickly catches his attention is that of Benjamin Pearl, whose father, Jeremiah, is a religious fanatic with paranoid tendencies. Pearl’s wife and other children are gone and Pete is not able to determine the where or why. Pete carries his own baggage. He’s a heavy drinker with unresolved issues with his father, a brother on the lamb, an ex-wife with skeptical morals and an estranged daughter, Rachel. Can this flawed man truly help others? When his ex flees the state and Rachel runs away, Pete tries to find her, fearing the worst. Not a feel-good read; dysfunction abounds. Dark and dreary but so well done, it is the best debut I’ve read this year.
KIm
Worthy Brown's Daughter by Phillip Margolin
Narrator Name: Jonathan Davis
Rating the Audio Performance
Easy to listen to, and narrator was very good about his inflection and delivery. Rating the Book's Content/Storyline
This book was selected because of the length, and I was somewhat interested in the story. It grabbed my attention immediately, and I listened to it more than just on my commute. Did not want to shut it off (put it down).
Lynn
Lots of Candles, Plenty of Cake by Anna Quindlen
Narrator Name: Anna Quindlen
Rating the Audio Performance
Hearing Anna Quindlen read her own book was magical. It was like sitting at a table with a special girlfriend having a cup of tea and chatting. You could feel her in the room with you. Rating the Book's Content/Storyline
Anna Quindlen has had a wonderful life which she has led (and continues to) lead to the fullest. Her story is written in such a wonderful prose that after I finished listening to the book, I felt as though I had a new friend and missed our chats.
Sarah
War of the Encyclopaedists by Christopher Robinson and Gavin Kovite
Narrator Name: Christopher Robinson and Gavin Kovite
Rating the Audio Performance
Author narration is not always a good idea, but in this case it pays off. Real-life best friends Robinson and Kovite are not trained professional voice performers, but their personal engagement with the material and with each other makes up for that. Rating the Book's Content/Storyline
Bestfriend co-authors Robinson and Kovite have written an unusual and rewarding first novel about best friends Halifax Corderoy and Mickey Montauk. It's a millennial generation coming-of-age story that manages to unite the hipster art scene of the Pacific Northwest, the ivy-covered halls of New England academe, and the U.S. military occupation of the Middle East. Corderoy goes off to grad school in Boston, while Montauk ships out to Baghdad with his National Guard unit. They keep in touch via updates to a Wikipedia article about themselves --- The Encyclopaedists, as they dubbed themselves when hosting art happenings back in Seattle.
Hope
Witch Song by Amber Argyle
Narrator Name: Melissa Reizian Frank
Rating the Audio Performance
I really enjoy Melissa's voice. She does well distinguishing between the characters and their gender. Rating the Book's Content/Storyline
Amber is a wonderfully creative author. Her storylines are well developed. The characters are heartfelt and easy to enjoy.
Deb
Wicked Appetite by Janet Evanovich
Narrator Name: Lorelei King
Rating the Audio Performance
King's continued performance of Evanovich's books, including the Stephanie Plum series, speaks of her talent. Rating the Book's Content/Storyline
This series (Lizzie & Diesel) is becoming predictable. With four of the seven stones found, I hope Evanovich gets creative with the stories for the remaining three stones.
Mary
The Buried Giant by Kazuo Ishiguro
Narrator Name: David Horovitch
Rating the Audio Performance
It was hard for me to get into this book at first, and the narrator's voice was part of the problem. He sounded like a crotchety old man, for all the characters, but eventually I grew used to it and, in the end, feel he did a good job. I don't think I would have finished the book if I'd been reading it in print. Rating the Book's Content/Storyline
I would give it a 3.5 stars if possible, mostly because it dragged for me in places and left some unanswered questions. Still, Ishiguro isn't known for upbeat stories or lots of action but more for his thoughtful prose, use of symbolism to get at deep truths, and beautiful writing. As always, his writing was beautiful --- if bleak --- even if I didn't always quite comprehend the deep symbolism or understand entirely what exactly was going on. I think this is one of those novels that will stay with me a long time and that its deeper meanings will seep slowly into my mind until I want to read it again.
Ann
Blueprints by Barbara Delinsky
Narrator Name: Amy Rubinate
Rating the Audio Performance
This was not my favorite performance in an audiobook, but it was good enough that I listened until the end of the book. The voice was not as expressive as I would've liked and the male character voices were not convincing. Rating the Book's Content/Storyline
I have read/listened to other books by this same author so I know her characters are interesting, even though they don't have the depth I normally look for. The story was compelling enough for me to want to finish listening to it, but the ending was very predictable. Some of the more risque parts seemed to have been added to entice readers without actually adding to the story line. Overall, an enjoyable "listen," but not one I would highly recommend.
Crystal
The Melody Lingers On by Mary Higgins Clark
Narrator Name: Jan Maxwell
Rating the Audio Performance
The reader does an excellent job. Rating the Book's Content/Storyline
Good story.
Amy
Slumdog Millionaire (a.k.a. Q&A) by Vikas Swarup
Narrator Name: Kerry Shale
Rating the Audio Performance
His use of an Indian accent made the book seem more realistic and reminiscent of the movie. Rating the Book's Content/Storyline
As in the film, the basic premise in the novel was that the main character became a game show contestant. He recounts events in his life that enabled him to answer the quiz questions correctly, despite the fact that he has had minimal formal education. The characters --- from their names to their relationships to the main character --- were quite different from the film (which I thought was excellent). Overall, I found the book quite enjoyable.
Terri
Footprints of God by Greg Iles
Narrator Name: Dick Hill
Rating the Audio Performance
The reader was able to change his voice enough that I could distinguish between the characters. Rating the Book's Content/Storyline
The story line was good in the beginning --- lots of suspense, but then it became a little sci-fi. While perhaps the story could possible happen in the future, I was not into that aspect of the story.
Christine
How to Start a Fire by Lisa Lutz
Narrator Name: Tavia Gilbert
Rating the Audio Performance
Audio performance was great. There were three main characters in the book, and the narrator managed to put a slightly different voice to each one so you could easily recognize. Rating the Book's Content/Storyline
I loved the storyline of this book and the way it was told. The author tells the story from the three main characters' points of view, jumping from one to another and also moving forward and backward in time. She did it very well and it was easy to follow along.
Kate
The Girl You Left Behind by Jojo Moyes
Narrator Name: Penelope Rawlins and Clare Corbett
Rating the Audio Performance
I enjoyed the change from French accents to English accents. I thought it was one person until I filled this out, so I admit to being a bit disappointed that it wasn't one woman doing both accents. I'm spoiled with great narrators! But still great. Rating the Book's Content/Storyline
I enjoyed the change from past to present and back again. Good ending. I just discovered Jojo Moyes and am enjoying all of her books.
Jan
The Paris Architect by Charles Belfoure
Narrator Name: Mark Bramhall
Rating the Audio Performance
Excellent narration, didn't overact. Rating the Book's Content/Storyline
Lucien, an architect, is hired to design hiding places for Jews in occupied France during WWII. At the same time, he’s also designing factories for the Germans. The overriding attitude among the French toward the Jews wasn’t glossed over, nor was the moral dilemma facing the French people. Seeing the growth and transformation of Lucien gave the story depth, while the historical detail, setting, and well-developed characters made the story come to life.
The concept is an interesting one, but what really sets this novel apart is the level of suspense and tension. I was on the edge of my seat much of the time. There were a few too many coincidences that were unconvincing but those are minor criticisms.
Barb
The Art of Racing in the Rain by Garth Stein
Narrator Name: Christopher Evan Welch
Rating the Audio Performance
Mr. Welch did an amazing job with this book. I will definitely look for more of his narrations. Rating the Book's Content/Storyline
I hesitated even to add this book to my to-read list. An entire book told by a DOG? I love dogs, but a whole book from a dog's point of view seemed a bit odd. Now I wish I hadn't waited so long to read the book, and I think the audio enhanced the story.
Jan
Pretty Baby by Mary Kubica
Narrator Name: Cassandra Campbell, Tom Taylorson and Jorjeana Marie
Rating the Audio Performance
I enjoyed the male narrator the most but they were all excellent. Great ensemble. Rating the Book's Content/Storyline
This is a well-written, suspenseful tale with compelling characters and excellent pacing that had me listening every chance I got. The character development was excellent and the multiple points of view storyline was expertly done. I didn’t feel pulled out of the story but eagerly awaited each character’s perspective. Heidi befriends a homeless teen and her baby and eventually takes them into her home, much to her husband and daughter's alarm. The tension builds as Willow’s background story is slowly revealed and the dynamic between Heidi and Willow changes. Heidi herself has a past with a boatload of emotional baggage. There are plenty of secrets to be revealed, all building to a dramatic, riveting conclusion. Great listening!
Vikki
Boy, Snow, Bird by Helen Oyeyemi
Narrator Name: Susan Bennett and Carra Patterson
Rating the Audio Performance
Good performances. I just didn't care for the story very much. Rating the Book's Content/Storyline
This had all the makings for a great story. Light skinned African Americans passing themselves off as white in a small town in Massachusetts. Boy was interesting at the beginning of the book. Unfortunately, the chapters with the correspondence between Snow and Bird were a chore to get through, and I found myself drifting away and bored. Things picked up again when Boy came back into the picture, and then the ending left me wondering what the heck just happened. I gave it 2 stars because Boy made me laugh sometimes.
Gail
Not My Father's Son by Alan Cumming
Narrator Name: Alan Cumming
Rating the Audio Performance
I think Alan Cumming's Scottish accent and the fact that he is an entertainer really added to his telling of his story. I felt very immersed in his memoir, feeling both his pain and his joy as he related his life narrative. Rating the Book's Content/Storyline
I have always enjoyed the many different rolls that I have seen Alan Cumming perform. When I saw him talking about this book on one of the late night shows, I wanted to read it. I really enjoyed hearing Alan Cumming perform his own story. He had a very abusive father, and as much as his mother did her best to try and protect him and his brother, his father was very cruel, both physically and mentally, to Allan especially. He managed to persevere until it was time for him to leave home to attend a school, which he had won a scholarship for. He never lived under the same roof of his father again. Out of adversity, Alan has carved a very good life. He does believe that in learning how to survive the abuse, it helped him in his career.
Patricia
Mortal Fear by Greg Iles
Narrator Name: Richard Ferrone
Rating the Audio Performance
This performance was okay, but the narrator didn't really bother trying to distinguish his voice between characters. This is the first book I've listened to that that's been the case. It often made it difficult to tell exactly who was speaking - especially when more than two characters were talking. And the book references several times that the characters have southern accents. But the narrator didn't read them that way. I would have preferred it if he had. Rating the Book's Content/Storyline
There were moments throughout this book that were really good. But they were far outweighed by tedious storylines. This book could have been 75% the size that it was and still tell the story just as well. There were times when the author droned on and on with certain conversations (between the main character and the psychologist for example), that in the end really didn't have any pertinence to the story. Certainly not enough to warrant that much page time. It really detracted from the story for me. The part of the book where the main character thinks the killer is hiding in the house - that was genius. If only the rest of the book had felt that exciting.
BK
To See the Moon Again by Jamie Langston Turner
Narrator Name: Eva Kaminsky
Rating the Audio Performance
A very good representation of each voice, but she could have been a better singer for the few songs!
Rating the Book's Content/Storyline
A childless widow, who is a noted college professor, suddenly has the daughter of her long lost brother appear on her porch. The young woman has a troubled past that is slowly revealed as the two women build new lives together.
Carol
Hausfrau by Jill Alexander Essbaum
Narrator Name: Mozhan Marno
Rating the Audio Performance
The narrator of HAUSFRAU requires a multilingual talent to bring life to its varied nationalities. The main character, Anna, is an American living in Zurich. Mozhan Marno’s natural voice has beautiful resonance, particularly when expressing Anna’s thoughts or speech. To distinguish character, Marno changes tone and accent, and it is here that I initially found her less engaging. In particular, the voice of Doktor Messerli, Anna’s psychiatrist, seemed overdone. This dissipated. I’m certain HAUSFRAU was more enjoyable due to Marno’s accurate pronunciation of the Swiss German language and Zurich’s environs. Marno’s narration seems just right to understand the true desperation of Anna, the good wife, mostly. Rating the Book's Content/Storyline
Anna Benz seemingly has it all, money, a good husband, and beautiful children. An American, she finds herself out of her element when her husband, Bruno, a Swiss banker, transfers to Zurich. Despite this, Anna indulges in extra-marital affairs? Why? Is it boredom, low self-esteem, loneliness? A marriage takes two and yet it is easy to blame Anna. What role does Bruno play? I do not like what Anna does but I loved this debut just the same. There is only one thing I cannot forgive her and it is not the affairs. I wish this were fleshed out more. In sessions of psychoanalysis and German language classes, HAUSFRAU builds tension as it accelerates to Anna’s self-destruction. The moral dilemma HAUSFRAU presents will leave its readers divided.
Susan
All the Light We Cannot See by Anthony Doerr
Narrator Name: Zach Appelman
Rating the Audio Performance
Appelman was able to capture the characters voices, switching between characters seamlessly. Rating the Book's Content/Storyline
We really enjoyed listening to this story set during WWII, where the main characters are a Parisian blind girl and a German boy and how their lives converge. Doerr's debut novel is beautifully written and deservedly won the Pulitzer Prize.
Francisca E B
Maine by J. Courtney Sullivan
Narrator Name: Ann Marie Lee
Rating the Audio Performance
Ann Marie Lee does a fine job performing the audio. Her talent as a voice artist is evident with four women who have to be differentiated, but she doesn’t have very good material to work with.
Rating the Book's Content/Storyline
Three generations of Kelleher women descend on the family’s beach-front property one summer. The four women around whom the story revolves have little in common except that they are all part of this dysfunctional family. Their relationships are as rocky as the coast of Maine. I didn’t like any of them. I wasn’t interested in their stories. I didn’t care what happened to any of them. If this hadn't been a selection for my monthly book club discussion I would not have finished it.
Aletheia
Armada by Ernest Cline
Narrator Name: Wil Wheaton
Rating the Audio Performance
Wil Wheaton is a class-A reader. He really developed both fitting and unique voices for the cast of characters and didn't go too far with the weird girly voices for the female characters. I thought the pacing was good (though I believe I did listen to it at 1.5x speed, as I almost always do with audio books), and the increase in speed and volume heightened the experience during climactic scenes. Rating the Book's Content/Storyline
While I believe the enjoyment of the book was likely very heightened because of Wheaton's excellent performance, I also simply loved this book. I know it is getting a lot of flack, particularly from fans of READY PLAYER ONE, but I thought it had a lot of heart and spirit, and it did what it set out to do. Plot, briefly: Zach is a hardcore gamer who lost his dad to a freak explosion accident when Zach was just a baby. At age 17 (I believe), Zach suddenly finds himself in a world where all the video games he's been playing his entire life may not be all they appear --- were they being military trained for an actual alien invasion? Zach and the reader both find out what is really happening as a disaster seems imminent.
BK
The Right Thing by Amy Conner
Narrator Name: Kate Baldwin
Rating the Audio Performance
Comfortable delivery that was easy to enjoy. Rating the Book's Content/Storyline
The story of two little 7-year-old best friends is told through the eyes of the women as adults. One is from the wrong side of the tracks in Jackson, MS. The other is the daughter of a doctor. I listened on CD and enjoyed the narrator. It is one of the “Southern Voices” books.
BK
Mr. Mercedes by Stephen King
Narrator Name: Will Patton
Rating the Audio Performance
I enjoy Patton's soft, careful delivery. Rating the Book's Content/Storyline
I am not usually a fan of King’s book, but I really enjoyed this one! A retired detective gets drawn back into a case that has turned cold. A killer in a stolen Mercedes committed mass murder. With the help of a wacky woman and the teenage lawn boy, the detective tries to look at the cold case through fresh eyes with the hope of finding the killer. I listened on CD. Will Patton was the perfect narrator for the story.
Karen
The Vendetta Defense by Lisa Scottoline
Narrator Name: Kate Burton
Rating the Audio Performance
Kate Burton captured the excitement and momentum of the book with her reading style. Rating the Book's Content/Storyline
I found the book to be enjoyable because of the history involved in the story. Additionally, the story flowed smoothly with the excitement and anticipation building as it proceeded to the conclusion.
Karen
The English Girl: Gabriel Allon, Book 13 by Daniel Silva
Narrator Name: George Guidall
Rating the Audio Performance
George Guidall performs this book so well that I am drawn into the story and forget that I am not actually reading a printed book. Rating the Book's Content/Storyline
The book was full of suspense. When an event seemed to have been resolved, there was another complication that finally led to a surprising ending. The individual characters with their life stories also added to the novel's intensity.
Allyson
The Rosie Effect by Graeme Simsion
Narrator Name: Dan O'Grady
Rating the Audio Performance
Dan's voice really brings the main character, Don, to life in this sequel to THE ROSIE PROJECT! I enjoyed his narration and would listen to him again. Rating the Book's Content/Storyline
This is a hilarious and touching story! The author does a wonderful job portraying the misunderstandings when navigating relationships due to Asperger's syndrome. I recommend reading THE ROSIE PROJECT first to really understand the interactions between the characters. 
