July 10, 2015 - July 31, 2015
Carol from Columbia, CT
Judy grom Herndon, VA
Ruth from Oshkosh, WI
Korynne
Midwinterblood by Marcus Sedgwick
Narrator Name: Julian Rhind-Tutt
Rating the Audio Performance
The narrator has a nice voice, and he makes the story interesting. He has a British accent, so it's pleasant to listen to him read the book. He even takes on different intonations for different characters, which I always enjoy. Rating the Book's Content/Storyline
This book is seven short stories about people that all live on or visit the island of Blessed, an island that has some secrets. It is obvious throughout the novel that all the stories are intertwined, but you don't find out how until the end. The book is part mystery, part historical fiction. I found it unique and refreshing and interesting to read. A definite recommend.
Janice
Undivided: A Muslim Daughter, Her Christian Mother, Their Path to Peace by Patricia Raybon and Alana Raybon
Narrator Name: Suzie Althens and Simona Chitescu-Weik
Rating the Audio Performance
Good performance by both these narrators. Suzie Althens gave just the right inflections to Patricia's despair over her daughter's choices, putting the right emotional edge in her voice. Simona Chitescu-Weik sounded strong and staunch in all the right places, young and soft in others. My only complaint was that her voice sometimes faded at the end of sentences, making it hard to hear those ending words. Rating the Book's Content/Storyline
These two women, mother and daughter, were not afraid to "let their hair down". In the beginning I felt like the mom, Patricia, was very narrow-minded and judgmental. She emphasized the differences in her beliefs and her daughter's, always finding the Islam of her daughter lacking. I kept thinking, why can't she rejoice at her daughter's strong love of God, her practice of daily prayer, her close family, her being a great parent! But then I started to see that Alana also had a darker side that was revealed; she had been a rebellious teen, and had undertaken this path partly out of rebelliousness. But that was transformed to a strong conviction. Much more acceptance and respect from both by the end.
Judy
Homecoming by Bernhard Schlink
Narrator Name: Paul Michael
Rating the Audio Performance
This is a gripping psychological/philosophical drama set between Germany, Switzerland and the United States. As the main character is German, having a German as the narrator helps establish and keep the reader grounded in the sense of place and empathize with the character. This was actually my second time through with this book. While it all sounds really, really familiar early on in the book, I was so captured by some of the nuance and narrative that I stuck with it. I usually don't like to re-read books, but I'm glad I did for this one. Rating the Book's Content/Storyline
If you're a reader interested in the parallels of the classic themes in literature and seeing how they evolve through time, Bernhard Schlink will not disappoint. You may have to put THE ODYSSEY next on your reading list after this (I have), and you may have to plan a trip to Europe to immerse yourself in the settings. I can't say that I really liked any of the characters, but Schlink develops them all well and draws the reader into their lives.
Judy
The Homecoming by Bernhard Schlink
Narrator Name: Paul Michael
Rating the Audio Performance
This is a gripping psychological/philosophical drama set between Germany, Switzerland and the United States. As the main character is German, having a German as the narrator helps establish and keep the reader grounded in the sense of place and empathize with the character. This was actually my second time through with this book. While it all sounds really, really familiar early on in the book, I was so captured by some of the nuance and narrative that I stuck with it. I usually don't like to re-read books, but I'm glad I did for this one. Rating the Book's Content/Storyline
If you're a reader interested in the parallels of the classic themes in literature and seeing how they evolve through time, Bernhard Schlink will not disappoint. You may have to put THE ODYSSEY next on your reading list after this (I have), and you may have to plan a trip to Europe to immerse yourself in the settings. I can't say that I really liked any of the characters, but Schlink develops them all well and draws the reader into their lives.
Linda
Just Mercy: A Story of Justice and Redemption by Bryan Stevenson
Narrator Name: Bryan Stevenson
Rating the Audio Performance
Very well read by the author. His sincerity and passion come across in his reading. Rating the Book's Content/Storyline
The author has won a MacArthur "genius" grant and Sweden’s Olof Palme prize for his efforts on behalf of disenfranchised individuals caught in the cogs of our "injustice" system. The author simply relays stories of individuals who did not receive adequate care through the jurisprudence of some state's hands. The author shares events in which his own civil rights were violated. This is a must-read. And read and re-read.
Rebecca
Our Souls at Night by Kent Haruf
Narrator Name: Mark Bramhall
Rating the Audio Performance
Mark Bramhall did an excellent job. He is easy to understand and I thought used the correct tone. Rating the Book's Content/Storyline
I LOVED this book. The characters are believable and it is true-to-life.
Sue
Mayhem by Sarah Pinborough
Narrator Name: Steven Crossley
Rating the Audio Performance
Mr. Crossley did a superb job narrating this horror thriller. With his British accent he got the nuances and tones of the different accents across London. I also loved the way he said the main character's name, Dr. Bond. Just like the movie character James Bond - it was wonderful. It gave the character added power to face the horror of the murderous rampage. Rating the Book's Content/Storyline
I would recommend this to people who like thrillers with some edge to them. But in all honesty, this is a horror novel disguised as a detective novel. I first picked this up as it was described to me as a detective novel. I quickly found out it had a dark side. I was intrigued with how Dr. Bond would find the killer and if he would survive. I don't recommend listening/reading this at night by yourself. Consider yourself warned!!
Pauline
Run by Blake Crouch
Narrator Name: Phil Gigante
Rating the Audio Performance
Mr. Gigante did an excellent job at ramping up the tension and excitement portrayed in this book. I could feel my pulse speed up and my breath quicken as he'd describe the mad race to outrun the bad guys. Rating the Book's Content/Storyline
Jack with wife Dee and their two children flee New Mexico when a strange occurrence turns neighbors into killers. They risk starvation, dehydration, freezing to death, convoys of killers and attack dogs on their mad race to reach the safety of Canada.
Jen
Outlander by Diana Gabaldon
Narrator Name: Davina Porter
Rating the Audio Performance
I started watching the TV show on Starz and wanted to learn more so I started listening to it on the way to and from work and I am now hooked on this series. The show follows the books, so I am even more thrilled and cannot wait to start the next one. Davina Porter does such a fantastic job on the characters voices that I forget I am not watching the TV show as I can picture each character clearly in my mind. Rating the Book's Content/Storyline
Claire, a nurse, is newly married to Frank and due to World War II they are separated after the war ends in 1945. They go on a honeymoon to get reacquainted and are visiting an ancient Scotland ruin when Claire touches a rock and falls thru time back to 1743 Scotland and into the hands of a highlander named Jaime. Does she fight to get back to Frank or stay with the man who captures her heart.
Renee'
The Rosie Project by Graeme Simsion
Narrator Name: Dan O'Grady
Rating the Audio Performance
I love audiobooks; they make it like a movie is playing in my head. And I love the how he changes their voices to make the chapter. Rating the Book's Content/Storyline
I love the way the author put real life in the picture. A married couple who is dealing with becoming parents for the first time, along with being away from family in NYC. Dealing with job, friends, family, career and how to put a baby in their life. It all comes crushing down due to lack of communication. This is a normal couple who is scared of the changes about to happen.
Carol
Lost Light by Michael Connelly
Narrator Name: Len Cariou
Rating the Audio Performance
Nothing brings to mind the challenges of reading or listening like a series. I started out reading the series and have a certain picture of the characters in my head, particularly Bosch. The first I listened to was narrated by Dick Hill and that was good, not quite Bosch to me, but good. Then the publisher switched narrators to Len Cariou. At first I wasn’t buying it, but now he’s got my ear. From what I can determine Cariou continues the series. I like his narration; he’s now Bosch for me. He paces well and changes his voice just enough so you know who’s talking. I honestly never associated Cariou with the role of Henry Reagan, the Commissioner’s dad. Fingers crossed that the publisher leaves well enough alone and Cariou carries on. Rating the Book's Content/Storyline
“There is no end of things in the heart.” I love this opening quote in Michael Connelly’s ninth Harry Bosch LA mystery. My retirement mission is to read the whole series. Audio is helping that goal. There’s something about this one. It’s getting under my skin in a good way. Maybe it’s due to the cold case, a missing federal agent that recently retired Bosch has taken on. Maybe it’s that there is a quadriplegic, a cop who was injured in the line of duty. Maybe it’s the appearance of Bosch’s ex-wife, Eleanor Wish (there’s always hope). Maybe it’s just darn good storytelling by Connelly, who always gets the feel of LA right, reveals a bit in each outing about Bosch, and who brings the man to life with his love of art, books and jazz.
Joanne
We Are Not Ourselves by Matthew Thomas
Narrator Name: Mare Winningham
Rating the Audio Performance
Winningham brought the characters to life to me. Great narration! Rating the Book's Content/Storyline
Wonderful story following the life of our lead character from when she was a young girl until she is an older woman. You can't help but want her to achieve all of her hopes and dreams.
Melanie S.
Tiny Little Thing by Beatriz Williams
Narrator Name: Kathleen McInerney
Rating the Audio Performance
Kathleen McInerney's performance of this audiobook was excellent. She was able to convey both the male and female characters convincingly. While I read a small percentage of this book on e-book, I listened to most of the novel and would highly recommend the audiobook. An enjoyable experience. Rating the Book's Content/Storyline
This was a terrific period piece set in the mid-1960s. The main character, Tiny, has been groomed to be a successful wife, to be "perfect" in every way so as to aid her politically ambitious husband's career. However, she finds herself to be more of a free-spirit and has great difficulty conforming to the expectations that both her family and her husband's family has for her. The story moves back and forth between 1964 and 1966, to before and after her marriage to the charismatic Frank Hardcastle. Secrets are revealed, and Tiny evolves and becomes a stronger woman as the story unfolds. This was "chic" lit at its best and a great summer read.
Francisca E B
A Prayer for Owen Meany by John Irving
Narrator Name: Joe Barrett
Rating the Audio Performance
Joe Barrett does a fine job performing the audio version. His unique voice for Owen Meany is very effective, much more so than the ALL CAPS used in the text version to make his voice unique. Definitely a 5-star performance on audio. Rating the Book's Content/Storyline
This is a modern fable; a story of faith, moral courage, destiny and friendship. Covering the period from 1953 to the late 1980s, Irving uses the narrator – Johnny Wheelwright – to comment on the politics of the day, social mores, the role of faith and religion in our communities, and the miracle of enduring friendship. I loved Owen Meany almost as much as Johnny did. He could be exasperating, but there was something so mature and wise and loving about him that simply drew me in.
Hebah
The Gospel of Loki by Joanne M. Harris
Narrator Name: Allan Corduner
Rating the Audio Performance
Corduner really brings to life Loki's evident glee at his own cleverness, highlighting the wonderful humor in the novel. Rating the Book's Content/Storyline
I haven't seen Norse mythology get the retold-mythology treatment as often as others in the genre, and this was just plain fun. In Loki's "humble" narration, he casts himself as a misunderstood nerd who never fit in at the Asgard table of jocks, and his voice is glib enough to be convincing even as he justifies away sometimes appalling actions. Wonderful, droll humor abounds in this tale.
Patricia
The Messenger by Daniel Silva
Narrator Name: Christopher Lane
Rating the Audio Performance
I really liked Christopher Lane! 90% of the characters require some sort of accent (ranging from Israeli, to French, to English) and I feel like he did a really good job with them all! And I thought he did good with the female voices as well. I often don't like how men do the female voices (they often make them very whiny or nasally). But he did a great job. It was easy to distinguish who was talking. Rating the Book's Content/Storyline
This is Daniel Silva's sixth book in the series and I'm liking each one more and more! At first I wasn't sure I was going to be able to get into the whole Saudi Arabian storyline. But the whole aspect of the woman being undercover - it kept me on the edge of my seat! Very well done. I can't wait to read the next in the series.
Linda
This Time Together by Carol Burnett
Narrator Name: Carol Burnett
Rating the Audio Performance
Burnett does an excellent job of performing her book - even including her Tarzan yell when appropriate. She does an excellent job of mimicking other famous people's voice patterns. I never thought of her as a voice impressionist before. Note: it's the speech pattern not the voice she nails. Rating the Book's Content/Storyline
Interesting, short, mostly funny. Nothing earth shattering or soul changing. Just our friend Carol sharing vignettes of people who have crossed her path. I especially loved the story about the 1950s restaurant hostess who wasn't going to sit the improperly attired Burnett.
Linda
A Golden Voice: How Faith, Hard Work, and Humility Brought Me from the Streets to Salvation by Ted Williams with Brett Witter
Narrator Name: Ted Williams
Rating the Audio Performance
Mr. Williams put his radio voice to excellent use. Rating the Book's Content/Storyline
The bulk of this book takes place before his name was known by many. He certainly hit lows despite a loving family and a talent or gift for voice work. I applaud his efforts and those of the people who have helped him get sober. I did get annoyed with the preachiness - even when he was in the clutches of his addiction, he still praised Jesus (for allowing him to score the cocaine). I know much of that would be drug-fueled, but I expected or wanted a little more humility.
Also, this was an abridgment. I don't usually listen to those and I would not know what was eliminated. That might have changed my opinion.
Vikki
Everything I Never Told You by Celeste Ng
Narrator Name: Cassandra Campbell
Rating the Audio Performance
Cassandra has narrated several audiobooks that I've listened to. She's great at it. Rating the Book's Content/Storyline
The parents were perplexing to me. All the pressure they put on their eldest daughter Lydia, while very much ignoring their other children, Nate and Hannah. It was a little over the top at times, to a point that it bordered on not being believable for me. All and all, it was a good story, with good character development.
Linda
Crash & Burn by Lisa Gardner
Narrator Name: Christina Traister and Mikael Naramore
Rating the Audio Performance
The narrators had even-toned voices that I enjoyed. The characters were believable and fit with the concept that the author portrayed. Rating the Book's Content/Storyline
I love Lisa Gardner books. However, this one was a little slow for me to get into. It includes some characters I was familiar with, which is always like finding old friends. Still, I found myself wondering if it was ever going to pick up. It does and then we get to see the kind of writing I expect from L.G.! Being psychologically invested in the story took me a while, but was worth it. Not my favorite L.G. book, but worth reading if you can stick with it long enough to get into the story.
Melanie S.
To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee
Narrator Name: Sissy Spacek
Rating the Audio Performance
This audiobook was narrated by Sissy Spacek, who was able to totally embody the character of Scout Finch with her pitch-perfect southern accent. I did catch one mistake in her delivery when she said "gravel" instead of "gavel" while reading one of the courtroom scenes. ( Does someone listen to catch mistakes while the actor is reading the book or does someone listen to it through afterwards for just such errors? I am thinking perhaps not.) But other than that little faux pas, it was a completely engaging and (nearly) flawless performance. Highly recommend! Rating the Book's Content/Storyline
This is one of finest pieces of American literature ever written. If you've only seen the movie, read the book. If you've read the book before, reread it. It's such a beautiful book. Some of the passages literally gave me the chills or brought tears to my eyes. I reread this in anticipation of the release of GO SET A WATCHMAN, which is now on my TBR pile.
Tessa B C
The Goose Girl by Shannon Hale
Narrator Name: Cynthia Bishop
Rating the Audio Performance
The audiobook was narrated by Cynthia Bishop and a large cast of actors who took on various supplementary roles, resulting in a dynamic and exciting performance. 5 stars for their performance.
Rating the Book's Content/Storyline
An expanded story based on the Grimm’s fairy tale of the same name, about a princess who became a goose girl before she could become queen. Hale includes the basic elements of most fairy tales – love, betrayal, wicked enemies, loyal helpers, a little magic, a handsome prince, and a heroine I wanted to see succeed.
Ruth
Have a Nice Guilt Trip by Lisa Scottoline and Francesca Serritella
Narrator Name: Lisa Scottoline and Francesca Serritella
Rating the Audio Performance
Love listening to this mother-daughter duo. It wouldn't seem authentic otherwise. I had to read the print version of one of their previous books, but didn't enjoy it nearly as well as listening to their voices relay their personal stories. Rating the Book's Content/Storyline
Since this is a collection of stories from a mother-daughter duo, I especially enjoy listening to them with my own young adult daughter. The subject matter is something we can both relate to. This collection was especially poignant now that Mother Mary has passed away.
Vikki
Seriously...I'm Kidding by Ellen Degeneres
Narrator Name: Ellen Degeneres
Rating the Audio Performance
It's Ellen...performance was good. Rating the Book's Content/Storyline
Some things made me a laugh, but many chapters seemed just silly to me.
Sally Lincoln
The Brass Verdict by Michael Connelly
Narrator Name: Peter Giles
Rating the Audio Performance
Liked his voice from the onset. Not being American I have to have a nice clear voice so I can understand and Peter did this well. Rating the Book's Content/Storyline
Loved the movie "The Lincoln Lawyer" so was pleased to find this story and can see it being another movie in the future. Just wanted to carry on driving so I could listen to more of this captivating story on intrigue, murder, justice and second chances in a tough world. Enjoyed listening.
Amy
Every Fifteen Minutes by Lisa Scottoline
Narrator Name: George Newbern
Rating the Audio Performance
Enjoyed his voice. Some narrators have a hard voice to listen to. Rating the Book's Content/Storyline
Fast-paced, gripping.
Leslie
Freedom’s Child by Jax Miller
Narrator Name: Hillary Huber and MacLeod Andrews
Rating the Audio Performance
This was an easy story to follow even though there were quite a few characters and the setting moved to a few different places. The narrators did a nice job keeping the characters distinct throughout the fast-paced adventure. The story was well written, and I was always clear where we were and what was happening. Rating the Book's Content/Storyline
Freedom is a very flawed character that I couldn’t help liking. She’s brash, angry, and reckless but at the same time strong and likable. With a multi-layered plot and lots of action, the story took off right from the first page and never let up. Characters were interesting and well-developed, even though many were not very nice people. An engaging thriller with a satisfying ending where loose ends are tied up, puzzles are resolved, and questions are answered.
Leslie
Freedom’s Child by Jax Miller
Narrator Name: Hillary Huber and MacLeod Andrews
Rating the Audio Performance
This was an easy story to follow even though there were quite a few characters and the setting moved to a few different places. The narrators did a nice job keeping the characters distinct throughout the fast-paced adventure. The story was well written, and I was always clear where we were and what was happening. Rating the Book's Content/Storyline
Freedom is a very flawed character that I couldn’t help liking. She’s brash, angry, and reckless but at the same time strong and likable. With a multi-layered plot and lots of action, the story took off right from the first page and never let up. Characters were interesting and well developed, even though many were not very nice people. An engaging thriller with a satisfying ending where loose ends are tied up, puzzles are resolved and questions are answered.
Leslie
The Memory Painter by Gwendolyn Womack
Narrator Name: Will Damron
Rating the Audio Performance
Will Damron narrated with a steady pace and pleasant voice, keeping me focused on the story. The complex plot, numerous characters and relationships, plus movements back and forth in time requires attention from the listener. This is perfect to listen to while doing routine tasks. I listened while gardening and was able to give my full attention to the narrative. Rating the Book's Content/Storyline
In a richly woven, multi-leveled plot, relationships are revealed through Bryan’s dreams as we journey back in time thousands of years. If Bryan is remembering his past lives, and if souls stay together through time, then the knowledge he is acquiring through these dreams could put him in danger. I enjoyed the blending of genres—history, science fiction, fantasy, and a little romance, and the way the complex plot unfolded in bits and pieces as we built towards a climactic ending. And I admit, I was fooled by one of the plot twists at the end.
Lewis
Gone Girl by Gillian Flynn
Narrator Name: Julia Whelan and Kirby Heyborne
Rating the Audio Performance
Well done. I liked having the two narrators. Rating the Book's Content/Storyline
Interesting storyline, but it was more predictable than I had expected.
Catherine
Leaving Time by Jodi Picoult
Narrator Name: Rebecca Lowman, Abigail Revasch, Kathe Mazur, Mark Deakins
Rating the Audio Performance
The performance was perfect. Having multiple performers really added to the experience. Rating the Book's Content/Storyline
I really enjoyed the book. I found all the elephant facts fascinating, the storyline engaging, and the ending unforeseen and satisfying.
Judy
Inside the O'Briens by Lisa Genova
Narrator Name: Skipp Sudduth
Rating the Audio Performance
Excellent narration! I will look for more books narrated by Sudduth. Rating the Book's Content/Storyline
A very sad story. A Boston Irish family is devastated by the news that beloved husband and father, Joe O'Brien, has Huntington's Disease, which is always fatal, and strikes in the victims in their late 30s and early 40s. Joe and his wife, Rosie, have four children, some twenty-somethings have yet to leave the nest. Joe's career as a cop must end, but far worse is the news that each of his children has a 50% chance of having the deadly gene. Each child struggles with the dilemma - is it better to get tested and know, or to wait and see. Each option carries its own special dread. The story is compassionately told. Unfortunately, some characters are mere stereotypes. Still, it's hard not to be moved by their tragic story.
Crystal
Nemesis: An FBI Thriller by Catherine Coulter
Narrator Name: MacLeod Andrews and Renée Raudman
Rating the Audio Performance
Excellent readers. Rating the Book's Content/Storyline
FBI Special Agents Dillon Savich and Lacey Sherlock are back in action again. They kick butt and take names. The two fast-paced storylines take place in the US and in the UK.
Kimberly
Blackberry Pie Murder by Joanne Fluke
Narrator Name: Suzanne Toren
Rating the Audio Performance
Fun, entertaining listen. The only thing that wasn't enjoyable was the narrator's reading of all the recipes. But, on the other hand, some of them sounded really good, so I bought the book in print. Rating the Book's Content/Storyline
I wanted something to listen to driving to work, this book delivered.
Francisca E B
The Husband's Secret by Liane Moriarty
Narrator Name: Catherine Lee
Rating the Audio Performance
Caroline Lee does a fine job performing the audio version of the book, though some of the female voices are so similar that I had a little difficulty at first telling who was speaking. Rating the Book's Content/Storyline
Three women’s lives converge as a result of one man’s secret. I will admit that the multiple points of view did confuse me at first as the narrative switched from Cecelia to Tess to Rachel. I couldn’t help but consider “what would I do” if I were in the position of any one of these women --- and some of their actions and reactions took me by surprise.
Lacey
Hope: A Memoir of Survival in Cleveland by Amanda Berry, Gina DeJesus, Mary Jordan and Kevin Sullivan
Narrator Name: Jorjeana Marie, Marisol Ramirez and Arthur Morey
Rating the Audio Performance
Each person in the story has their own voice through a different narrator. This was very effective in helping give each girl her own identity as their stories are told and to make the experiences of their families and their captor more distinct. Rating the Book's Content/Storyline
This is a horrendous story and a difficult listen at times, but it is also an amazing story of strength and resilience. I felt like I was right there with these girls, held captive, with no way to escape. When they finally did escape, I wanted to jump up and down for joy! It is amazing that their captor allowed them to keep a journal and that they were able to relive the whole experience through those notes in order to share their story with everyone. Highly recommended as a unique memoir.
Patti
The Supreme Macaroni Company by Adriana Trigiani
Narrator Name: Cassandra Campbell
Rating the Audio Performance
Ms. Campbell's voice makes the book and its characters. She has a good grasp of all the voices of each character. Rating the Book's Content/Storyline
It is an entertaining book to listen to, but not as good as some of her other books.
Linda
All the Light We Cannot See by Anthony Doerr
Narrator Name: Zach Appelman
Rating the Audio Performance
Appelman's voice seemed perfect for this story. Very low-key and calming. I kept thinking that I was listening to Harry Smith, the NBC news reporter. Rating the Book's Content/Storyline
Doerr paints pictures with his prose. I already know that I want to read the physical book. I recommend very highly. Actually would give it 4-1/2 stars.
Gail
Go Set a Watchman by Harper Lee
Narrator Name: Reese Witherspoon
Rating the Audio Performance
At first, I wasn't comfortable with the reading. The drawl seemed overdone and Jean Louise sounded young, almost like she was still "Scout" as a child, but after a while, it fell into place and was quite good. Rating the Book's Content/Storyline
The book has caused a stir in the largely progressive publishing world. Many reviewers decided that Atticus Finch has clay feet and they are outraged. The former perfect human being is actually just a human being with personal opinions and feelings. However he had behaved before regarding matters of race has been erased, and he is now painted with the broad brush of Jean Louise, who is pretty immature and is furious with him. He claims to be doing what he has to do to survive, and he also is trying to discover who the enemy is, and who is the ally; Jean Louise does not believe him. Perhaps there is a kinder side to Atticus that wants to lift up the Negroes, give them a better education, prepare them to vote, perhaps not. Readers decide.
Gail
The Green Road by Anne Enright
Narrator Name: Lloyd James, Alana Kerr and Gerard Doyle
Rating the Audio Performance
The narrators mastered the brogue perfectly, using warm and expressive tones, bringing each character to life. Rating the Book's Content/Storyline
The story takes place in Ireland, and the author captured the speaking style and dialogue so well that the various expressions used will sometimes make the reader’s lips curl upwards in a smile or downward in a frown, as they are drawn right into the narrative. It is an in-depth study of a family, over a little more than a quarter of a century, as each member faces the life and death issues all families will face over the years. How they deal with each other, the issues and also themselves is thoroughly explored. The beautiful green road lies just beyond the family homestead, and it will lure the family members to it as the years go by, as the family alternately deteriorates and reconstitutes itself, rising and falling with life’s events.
Linda
The White Woman on the Green Bicycle by Monique Roffey
Narrator Name: Adjoa Andoh
Rating the Audio Performance
Adjoa Andoh is stupendous! Her voices in this book included a Brit man who is married to a woman from France. They live in Trinidad and befriend locals and a Russian woman...Andoh did it all impeccably. Rating the Book's Content/Storyline
The story parallels a married couple's life on Trinidad. Both the couple and the country have highs and lows. Occasionally, I was confused by a change in chronology. (This is not uncommon with me on audiobooks where time shifts.) Overall a captivating story.
Barbara
Best Friends by Martha Moody
Narrator Name: Renee Raudman
Rating the Audio Performance
Excellent. Portrayed all of character well - men, women, old and young. Rating the Book's Content/Storyline
A multi-decade journey through the lives of two college friends. Divergent lives but close friends, many secrets, many moral quandaries.
Melanie S.
How to Tell Toledo from the Night Sky by Lydia Netzer
Narrator Name: Joshlyn Jackson
Rating the Audio Performance
Joshlyn Jackson had many voices to create as the sole performer of this quirky story. She handled most of them well, but one voice, that of a character named Belion, sounded like a growling monster. I am not quite sure why she chose to portray this character with such an abrasive voice, and I found it very distracting and irritating to listen when he was speaking. Rating the Book's Content/Storyline
I read Lydia Netzer's first book, SHINE, SHINE, SHINE. I didn't get it. This one was strange, strange, strange as well. The characters were strange, their actions were strange, the way they spoke was strange, and the story was inventive but strange. I could not relate to any of the characters. If you like quirky stories about astrophysics, lucid dreaming, psychics, hallucinations and bizarre behavior then you might like this book. The writing was good enough to keep me reading to the end, but it just wasn't my cup of tea.
Judie
The Nightingale by Kristin Hannah
Narrator Name: Polly Stone
Rating the Audio Performance
Wonderful narration with change of voice for different characters using French and German accents. Rating the Book's Content/Storyline
Suspenseful story revealing the challenges of the people living in occupied France.
Patricia
Time Bomb by Jonathan Kellerman
Narrator Name: Jeff Harding
Rating the Audio Performance
This is one of my least favorite audio performances I've listened to yet. He speaks in a very robotic voice and his female voices are very grating and hard to listen to. He doesn't have much difference in the way he speaks from character to character, so it's often hard to be exactly sure who's 'speaking'. Also, I listen on my headphones most of the time, which means I hear every little thing. And the narrator is constantly audibly swallowing. It's quite off-putting. Rating the Book's Content/Storyline
I loved Jonathan Kellerman's first book in the series WHEN THE BOUGH BREAKS. I love series books with returning characters, so I really wanted to like this book. But, oh man, was this book awful! Kellerman needs to learn the old adage of less is sometimes more. This book is so bogged down in needless detail it's ridiculous. He has this habit of over describing everything. Every character encountered (even ones that are only on scene for a very short time) are described down to hair and eye color, what all they're wearing (including shoe type and color and what sort of earrings and makeup they're wearing). Every piece of furniture in every room is detailed. By the end, I didn't care who the killer was. I just wanted the book to end.
Leslie
The Accidental Empress by Allison Pataki
Narrator Name: Madeleine Maby
Rating the Audio Performance
The audio was nicely performed by Madeleine Maby with a range of emotion and a captivating voice. There were a lot of characters and more than a few shifts in time and location to keep up with, so attention to time and place is important. Rating the Book's Content/Storyline
The author’s detailed account and description of life in the royal court - the lavish feasts, clothing, hair styles, gossipy servants - brought Sisi’s day-to-day experiences to life. However, I never got a real feel for the true historical events. While Franz Joseph and his overbearing mother were pivotal characters, Sisi was the only one I felt was fully developed. After a little research on my own, I realized the story was only loosely based on actual historical facts; events were shifted in time to conveniently fit the storyline and some were complete fiction. The story was okay, but I thought it could have been better considering the rich subject matter. Historical romance fans will likely enjoy this more than I did.
Lynn
At the Water's Edge by Sara Gruen
Narrator Name: Justine Eyre
Rating the Audio Performance
Very enjoyable to listen to on tape. Scottish accents were excellent and all the voices very good. Rating the Book's Content/Storyline
I enjoyed the storyline and characters. Not quite WATER FOR ELEPHANTS but very good.
Julie
China Rich Girlfriend by Kevin Kwan
Narrator Name: Lydia Look
Rating the Audio Performance
I was really looking forward to this audio, as I had enjoyed the first book, CRAZY RICH ASIANS, so much. I thought the narrator of CRA was great! I was initially disappointed that CHINA RICH GIRLFRIEND did not have the same narrator as the first book, but soon adjusted to Lydia Look and enjoyed her reading immensely. I thought she did an especially good job distinguishing the "footnotes" from the storyline. I'm sure I enjoyed the audio versions of both books more than I would have the hardcover, due to the great job on the accents and easy voice distinctions among the many different characters. Rating the Book's Content/Storyline
While I enjoyed this book, I did not like it as much as its predecessor, CRAZY RICH ASIANS. The many descriptions of the food, clothes and other expensive things got a little tedious at times. I also had a hard time buying into how easily the protagonist, Rachel, went along with this insanely rich lifestyle without really thinking about the contrast between the many poor Chinese and the corrupt rich ones - at least until there was a token mention of it at the end. It seemed out of character for the girl we met in the first book.
Vikki
The Autobiography of Mrs. Tom Thumb by Melanie Benjamin
Narrator Name: Kim Mai Guest
Rating the Audio Performance
Excellent narrator. Rating the Book's Content/Storyline
I love Melanie Benjamin's books. Very well researched and interesting.
Francisca E B
The Hare with Amber Eyes by Edmund de Waal
Narrator Name: Michael Maloney
Rating the Audio Performance
The audiobook is capably narrated by Michael Maloney. However, there’s not much you can do to punch up a non-fiction narrative. Rating the Book's Content/Storyline
When his great uncle Iggie died in 1994, Edmund de Waal inherited a collection of 264 netsuke. The bequest led him to research his family and the history of this collection. Told with eyes wide open, but with a great deal of love and respect, de Waal takes the reader back through time and breathes life into the history of art, culture, politics, and war.
Crystal
The Secret Adversary: A Tommy and Tuppence Mystery by Agatha Christie
Narrator Name: Wanda McCaddon
Rating the Audio Performance
The reader is just right in her vocals. Rating the Book's Content/Storyline
The story is still good eighty-plus years after it was first published.
Jill
Mr. Mercedes by Stephen King
Narrator Name: Will Patton
Rating the Audio Performance
True creepy Steven King. I am a big fan of this narrator, and the story was chilling! Rating the Book's Content/Storyline
It was a different type book for King. I didn't think it would be as scary as some, but in true form Mr. King gets you with the "gotcha" moments, and you are totally creeped out! Loved it!
Dianne
After the Storm by Linda Castillo
Narrator Name: Kathleen McInerney
Rating the Audio Performance
Narrator does an outstanding job speaking Pennsylvania Dutch. Rating the Book's Content/Storyline
Love this author's books.
Melanie S.
Bossypants by Tina Fey
Narrator Name: Tina Fey
Rating the Audio Performance
No one could deliver Tina Fey like Tina Fey. Highly recommend the audiobook version of this book over a written one. Rating the Book's Content/Storyline
This book was really laugh-out-loud funny much of the time. Listening to the audiobook during my commute to and from work made that chore a lot more pleasant. She covered many topics - her childhood, her career as a comedy writer on SNL, her unintended entrance as a performer on SNL, motherhood, and aging. I know I came late to the party on this one, but I'm so glad I finally read it and would definitely recommend.
Linda
The Mockingbird Next Door: Life with Harper Lee by Marja Mills
Narrator Name: Amy Lynn Stewart
Rating the Audio Performance
Ms. Stewart did an admirable job including voice characterizations for both Nelle Harper Lee and her sister, Alice Lee. I felt as if the author were reading to me. Rating the Book's Content/Storyline
Anyone curious about Harper Lee should consider this a gift. The author was able to befriend Harper Lee, her sister and their friends and community --- even when they knew she was a writer. I loved the stories and the peek into my favorite author's life.
Barbara
The Sandcastle Girls by Chris Bohjalian
Narrator Name: Casandra Campbell and Alison Fraser
Rating the Audio Performance
Two readers are used because the two main female characters live in different generations. Both narrators are superb. There are times that the readers can make a book dull, but both of these narrators portray the characters in the book as one might imagine them. Rating the Book's Content/Storyline
This story of Armenian genocide needs to be told. Although the book is fictional, it exposes a very real time in history in which Armenians were murdered just because of who they were. The storyline is fascinating and reveals a part of history of which very few people are aware.
Kristin
A Memory of Light: Wheel of Time (Book 14) by Brandon Sanderson and Robert Jordan
Narrator Name: Michael Kramer and Kate Reading
Rating the Audio Performance
Kramer and Reading, who do all the Wheel of Time series, pull out all the stops in the performance of the conclusion to the late Robert Jordan's epic adventure. Their performances are magnificent --- like binge-watching a great TV series or radio play or opera cycle. Rating the Book's Content/Storyline
Why Wheel of Time has not achieved the Game of Thrones status is a mystery to me. They do have a comic book adaptation but WoT is at least as bloody as GoT --- major beloved characters do die. But GoT is more about consolidating power (Khaleesi is coming to Westeros!), while WoT is a classic good-and-evil battle. In the tradition of good storytelling, WoT really does require the protagonist, Rand Al'Thor --- yes, even though there are a bazillion characters in the series, Rand is the protagonist --- to change before he can defeat the Dark One, Leafblighter, A.K.A. Jordan's version of Satan. Although battle scenes are long and drawn-out, the Last Battle promised for eons is epic, thanks to Sanderson carrying it on.
Crystal
Hide Yourself Away by Mary Jane Clark
Narrator Name: Eliza Foss
Rating the Audio Performance
Good reader. Rating the Book's Content/Storyline
Good story.
Vikki
Lucky Us by Amy Bloom
Narrator Name: Alicyn Packard
Rating the Audio Performance
Nice, clear voice. Rating the Book's Content/Storyline
Started off well, but then I couldn't figure out the real point of this story. Maybe that family is whoever you want it to be? 
