Comic Book Review: The Twelfth Doctor #2 by Robbie Morrison & Dave Taylor

This is the second installment in the new comic book series by Robbie Morrison and sees the Doctor and Clara to continue to battle with Hyperios, a fire ball of fury. 

I like that the Doctor's snarky, snappy dialogue is ever present in this second comic book. This version of the Doctor is fast becoming my favorite Doctor. After the somewhat silly and goofy Eleventh Doctor, this Doctor is series with some attitude and he's a lot of fun as well. 

I haven't met Hyperios before and I find it interesting that he talks about how the Time Lords tried to wipe out his race. Its always good to meet new evil villains!

I'm enjoying this comic book series and I'm glad I have a couple more left in my stack to read.

There was also a bonus little comic about the Doctor finding something to do while Clara is off living her life. I always wondered what the Doctor does in his spare time!!

Comic Book Review: Doctor Who: the Twelfth Doctor #1 by Robbie Morrison & Dave Taylor

The Doctor and Clara are jetting off to a new adventure in the first installment of this comic book series, featuring the new Doctor, as portrayed by Peter Capaldi in the new series. Clara thinks she is in for some skiing and learns that they have landed on a planet that is a hot jungle instead. With aliens lurking it looks like another mystery for the Doctor to solve. 

I like the Doctor Who comics because they are a great read while I'm waiting for the next episode. Hot off watching the Christmas special I enjoyed this short read. It sets up the world where the Doctor and Clara and the last page left me in suspense as to what is going to happen next.

I liked the snappy dialogue, and especially how the Doctor refers to his previous incarnation, #11 Doctor (i.e. Matt Smith) and the famed Fez! I'm glad I have the next two episodes already because I plan to devour this series quickly!

Published by Titan Comics.

Crafting with Audios (1)

Crafting with Audios is a semi-regular feature where I share the audiobooks I'm currently listening to and the projects I'm working on.

I'm currently listening to Star Wars Scoundrels by Timothy Zahn and narrated by Marc Thompson. It's not the first time I've read a Star Wars novel but it is my first time listening to one. I'm really enjoying the narration and given that I recently re-watched Episodes IV, V & VI it's a fun experience. I'm about 30% through and looking forward to the rest of the book.

The busy season of trying to get all the knitting and crocheting done before Christmas is finally over. I feel a big sigh of relieve as it was tough trying to get it all done in time. I'm now on serious mitten making duty! I took a class at Hip 2 Knit last month and I love making mittens now. The left pair are cream colored and for my spouse's sister-in-law's sister and the smaller pair are camo-colored and for my youngest son. The camera doesn't show it too well but they are really pretty and very thick!

I have more mittens on the agenda, with a striped red and cream pair up next (also for the sister-in-law's sister) and I plan to finish off the Platypus amigurmi for my other son this week as well.

The temperature has dropped outside (-28C) so I'm planning to snuggle in with audios and yarn!

Audiobook Review: Bless Her Dead Little Heart by Miranda James

This series is the spin off to Miranda James' Cats in the Stacks Mysteries and features Miss An'gel and Miss Dickce Ducote. The sisters are pet sitting Charlie Harris' maine coon cat, Diesel, and get themselves involved in an adventure. When their former sorority sister, Rosabelle Sultan, turns up on their door step, claiming that her family is trying to kill her they don't really believe her. After all Rosabelle loves drama! However when someone else falls victim to a trap set for Rosabelle it really looks like Rosabelle's family mean her harm. With the Sultan family residing at their house too, An'gel and Dickce must try to solve the mystery before they become the next victim. 

I just adore Diesel and the Cats in the Stacks Mysteries. This spin off was great. While I did miss Charlie Harris, I did like this story. An'gel and Dickce are such a hoot, and with their southern manners they tend to keep their snarky comments to themselves. That doesn't mean they don't think them. Rosabelle and her family are pretty uncouth and it was interesting watching them all clash with each other! 

This was my first time listening to a Miranda James novel. I've previously read all the others. However having said that I enjoyed Jorgena Marie's narration. I liked the southern accents she used and I would definitely listen to another book in this series, with her narration. 

Bless Her Dead Little Heart was a fun debut in this series. If you enjoy the Cats in the Stacks mysteries I thoroughly recommend picking this one up. If you are new to Miranda James give this one a try and I guarantee you that you will be racing out to buy her other series too!

About this Audiobook:
Written by: Miranda James
Narrated by: Jorjeana Marie
Length: 7 hrs and 41 mins
 Series: Southern Ladies, Book 1
Unabridged Audiobook
Release Date:10-07-14
Publisher: Audible Studios

Book Review: A Death on the Nile by Agatha Christie

Death on the Nile is a short story featuring Parker Pyne. Parker is on holidays and even though his holiday has been previously interrupted by clients, he’s hoping that it won’t be interrupted even further. However the other occupants on his cruise have other ideas. One Lady Grayle asks him to find out if she is being slowly poisoned by her husband. He sets out to investigate but before he can uncover the truth Lady Grayle ends up dead.

I find the title of this short story amusing because Agatha Christie has a full length novel under the same title. The full-length Death on the Nile is of course widely popular, having been made into several movies, featuring Hercule Poirot. This short story was unknown to me until I picked it up. The short story was published three years before the novel. I do wonder if perhaps the short story was inspiration for the novel.

In any case it was a good, little story. Parker Pyne doesn’t usually solve murders, so it was interesting watching him try his hand at this one. With limited suspects and evidence aplenty, Parker managed to solve it in time.

Another good Parker Pyne mystery.

Audiobook Review: If the Shoe Kills by Lynn Cahoon

The holiday season is fast approaching in the sleepy town of South Cove. Jill Gardiner, owner of Coffee, Books and More, is busy planning a holiday supper and fundraising for the season. The last thing she needs is to get involved in another murder case. However, one seems to land right in her lap when she discovers the body of a visitor to town. Ted Hendricks is a first class jerk and also the director of a work program, placing interns in local businesses to help them garner some experience. When Ted turns up dead Jill doesn’t have to look far for suspects. It seems everyone had a reason to dislike Ted and Jill and her boyfriend police officer, Greg, will have their work cut out trying to find the killer.

If The Shoe Kills was my first visit with Jill and her dog, Emma, to South Cove. However, after listening to just one book I know it won’t be my last. I really enjoyed the variety of people that live in South Cove, and the addition of the interns visiting certainly provided a lot of color and intrigue!

The murder aside, what really drew me into this story was Jill’s store, Coffee, Books and More. I really like books about books. So many of my favorite cozy mystery series are set in bookstores and libraries. Being such an avid reader I can’t get enough of cozy mysteries that heavily feature books in their stories. I felt right at home in Coffee, Books and More and I liked how Jill not just works there, but talks about books, not just mentioning titles but giving the reader a great view of what goes into running the bookstore. In every scene I really felt like Jill was as much an avid lover of books as I am.

With the interns of the work program in town, there were a lot of visitors to South Cove. This made trying to figure out the killer so much harder, especially as the victim was new to town as well. I had an interesting time trying to figure it out and didn’t manage to solve this one before Jill.

I listened to If The Shoe Kills on audio and I enjoyed Susan Boyce’s narration. It didn’t take me long to get into the story and I quickly found myself hooked, which is a good indicator to a great author and narrator combination.

If the Shoe Kills was a great introduction into this series for me. I plan to go back and read/listen to the earlier books in the series, to find out a bit more about Jill’s other adventures. If you like charming cozies about enchanting small towns I highly recommend picking this one up.

About this Audiobook:

Written by: Lynn Cahoon

Narrated by: Susan Boyce

Length: 7 hrs and 42 mins

Series: Tourist Trap, Book 3

Unabridged Audiobook

Release Date:11-10-14

Publisher: Tantor Audio

Audiobook Review: Agatha Raisin and the Haunted House by M.C. Beaton

I love Agatha Raisin! She makes life in the country seem very exciting and she's always up to something. This time Agatha and her new neighbour, Paul, are investigating a haunted house. When the mean old lady that owns the house ends up dead, Agatha and Paul are sure it is murder and start to investigate.

Agatha has such spirit, but she is also a romantic and looks to Paul to be her next love. Of course Paul is married and is just toying with her. She deserves so much better, and I was happy to see Sir Charles Fraith also get in on the action too. When it comes to her love life I know she is not suited for James Lacey and I hope maybe Sir Charles will continue to be in her life.

Romance aside this was a really fun mystery, that delved into the history of the Cotswold. Agatha continues to bumble along until she has the case solved and her never-ending spirit and determination kept me interested.

I love Penelope Keith's narration. She's one of my favorite narrators and the true voice of Agatha Raisin. I'm looking forward to picking up the next Agatha Raisin mystery. 

About this Audiobook:
Written by: M. C. Beaton
Narrated by: Penelope Keith
Length: 6 hrs and 43 mins
 Series: Agatha Raisin, Book 14
Unabridged Audiobook
Release Date:01-11-13
Publisher: AudioGO

Audiobook Review: Murder of a Needled Knitter by Denise Swanson

I can’t imagine anything worse than going on your honeymoon with your MOTHER! Okay maybe going on your honey with a murderer on the same cruise ship! Well in Skye Denison-Boyd’s latest adventure she has both on her honeymoon. Her mother is on the same cruise ship as Skye and Wally and there is also a murderer on board.

I liked Denise Swanson’s new book for a number of reasons. Firstly I love Scumble River and Skye and Wally. I’ve been reading these books for a long time and I’m glad to see Skye getting her happy ever after with Wally. Even if there honeymoon did include her mom, Mae. There is more interactions with Skye, Wally and her parents, Mae and Jed, then I’ve ever seen before. This of course happens when you’re stuck on a ship together. I love how Wally stands up for Skye, and we all know Mae is the kind of woman that it can be hard to get a word in!!

I’ve also wanted to take a crochet cruise. It looks so relaxing to crochet on the water and visit new places. Mae and Jed are part of a knitting cruise group and it is anything but relaxing, especially with one of their own meeting her death. It turns out not all knitters are the peaceful, grandmotherly type!

Murder of a Needled Knitter was a great adventure on the seas, and I liked watching Skye and Wally working together to solve the mystery! It was a tangled web and it left me guessing right until the end.

I chose to listen to Murder of a Needled Knitter in audiobook format. It was my first time listening to Christine Leto narrate and it was a really enjoyable experience. I definitely will pick up future books in this series on audio. I love being able to knit and crochet while I listen, and Christine has a great voice to tell the ups and downs of a cozy mystery.

Murder of a Needled Knitter was a great listen and I can’t wait to find out what is in store for Skye and Wally in their married life, when they return to Scumble River.

About this Audiobook:
Written by: Denise Swanson
Narrated by: Christine Leto
Length: 7 hrs and 40 mins
 Series: Scumble River Mysteries, Book 17
Unabridged Audiobook
Release Date:09-02-14
Publisher: Audible Studios

Book Review: The Way of Kings by Brandon Sanderson

My first introduction to Brandon Sanderson was with Mistborn. I loved Mistborn an awful lot, and enjoyed the concepts. When Words of Radiance came out, I decided it was time to discover his other series, so I picked up The Way of Kings. It has taken me a while to get through The Way of Kings. It is over 1,250 pages of awesomeness and my own life has been busy. I would have rather have devoted a week and read it non-stop!

Everything about The Way of Kings is awesome. Brandon Sanderson sets up the kingdom of Roshar, and the war the Alethi are waging against the Parshendi. In this world those born with lighteyes are above those born with darkeyes. Kaladin is a darkeyed, that has ended up a slave, and sees a life ahead of him carrying a bridge, and what will likely be a early death for him and his fellow bridgemen. Dalinar is the Uncle of King Elokhar and is trying to unite them and end the war against the Parshendi. Shallon is trying to steal a soulcaster and save her family, while she becomes an apprentice to the scholar, Jasnah. It is a world where only women read and write, and men fight the war of their lives. And there is also the lost radiants…

I don’t have a lot of experience with epic fantasy. I’ve read The Lord of the Rings and a few others, but I’m mostly a newbie to fantasy books. The Way of Kings blew my mind and if this is an example of what I can expect in other fantasy series, I can’t wait to discover them.

Each book in this series will mostly concentrate on one character and this was Kaladin’s story. While he wasn’t my favourite character (I really enjoyed the Shallon/Jasnah storylines), it was interesting to see his past and how he went from the son of a surgeon to a slave and a bridgemen in the war.

There is a lot of hints of other storylines to follow and questions that haven’t been answered. I absolutely can’t wait to read Words of Radiance, which has already been released. The Way of Kings is definitely my favourite book of 2014 and I can’t wait to read more from Brandon Sanderson

Audiobook Review: The New World by Patrick Ness

I enjoy science fiction, and in the last few years I've been reading more than my fair share of YA science fiction. Beth Revis' series starting with Across the Universe was one of my favourites. I picked up The New World a couple of years ago on Audible and didn't think to listen. That was until this week, when I was waiting for a new book to come out and thought I'd listen to The New World while I wait. Well The New World blew me away and I can't believe I haven't listened before now.

The New World is a prequel and tells the story of Viola and her family, who are the landing party sent out to settle on a new world and report back. The new world isn't what Viola or her family expects.

This story was a great teaser. It made me want to race out and grab the first book in this series. I plan to listen to the rest of the series right away!! It was narrated by Angela Dawe and I liked her narration of Viola, and how she portrayed Viola's doubts about the new world.

About this Audiobook:

Written by: Patrick Ness
Narrated by: Angela Dawe
Length: 47 mins
 Series: Chaos Walking, Book 0
Unabridged Audiobook
Release Date:09-13-11
Publisher: Candlewick on Brilliance Audio

Audiobook Review: The Bermudez Triangle by Maureen Johnson

Bermudez Triangle is a stand-alone story by Maureen Johnson, telling the story of three best friends, whose life changes when two of them fall in love.

I've been a fan of Maureen Johnson since I first discovered her YA contemporaries many years ago. I've since been reading/listening to 1-2 books a year and find them just as enjoyable as the first ones I've discovered.

I don't read a lot of YA contemporary fiction, just a handful a year. I liked this one because it is a different twist on boy-meets-girl. In this case it is Mel and Avery, who have known each other forever, that fall in love, leaving their third best friend feelilng on the out. Maureen Johnson wrote the story well and it kept me interested right to the end.

This is only the second Maureen Johnson audiobook I've listened to and I enjoyed the narration as well. I'm planning to listen to a few more of her YA contemporaries on audio in 2015.

About this Audiobook:
Written by: Maureen Johnson
Narrated by: Ellen Archer
Length: 8 hrs and 12 mins
 Unabridged Audiobook
Release Date:02-04-08
Publisher: Penguin Group USA and Audible

Audiobook Review: Tarnished & Torn by Xe Sands

Lily Ivory is a witch and owner of a vintage store called Aunt Cora’s Closet. In her time in San Francisco she’s gotten into plenty of trouble. However trouble is heading her way like never before. This time in the form of her father and what could likely be a fire demon!! It all starts innocently enough when she goes to a fair and meets a German lady selling antique jewelry. She’s interested in what she has to offer and suspects that she might also be a witch. Her suspicions are confirmed when the lady turns up dead, pressed between wood with cinder blocks on top. The “pressing” is a old form of torture against witches, which Lily has only heard of. Due to the nature of her death, Detective Carlos calls on Lily to help out and this starts one adventure that Lily nor her friends will forget in a hurry.

I fell in love with this series when I first read Secondhand Spirits. I love Lily as she not just tries to solve mysteries, but also learns what it is like to live in San Francisco and have friends nearby. She was shunned from her own mother and her hometown for being a witch. However her life in San Francisco is pretty great… well except for the murders and the fact that her one-time lover, Sailor, has disappeared.

What I love the most about Tarnished and Torn and this series as a whole, is it is never dull and boring. There is always a lot happening but Juliet Blackwell doesn’t leave readers lost and unable to connect the dots. It is more than just a cozy mystery, with the paranormal elements and more-than-meets-the-eye characters. In Tarnished and Torn we finally meet Lily’s father, who abandoned her as a baby. We discover more about their relationship (or lack there of) and perhaps more about how Aidan feels about Lily. Fans of this series will definitely enjoy some of the sub-plots that have continued on from the previous books.

For me, Xe Sands is the voice of this series. Her portrayal of the characters is beyond amazing. I particularly love the depth she gives to Lily’s familiar, Oscar. Oscar is part gargoyle, part goblin and appears a pot-bellied pig. His suggestion on how to solve the case was to hire Miss Marple, and is aghast to find out that she doesn’t exist and is made up! This scene alone had my laughing until I cried!! After having experienced the previous books as audiobooks I know I will definitely be continuing on with the series in audiobook format only. I wouldn’t hesitate recommend this series to mystery fans and also paranormal fans. It’s not one to be missed!

About this Audiobook:
Written by: Juliet Blackwell
Narrated by: Xe Sands
Length: 7 hrs and 56 mins 
Series: Witchcraft Mysteries, Book 5
Unabridged Audiobook
Release Date:07-02-13
Publisher: Tantor Audio

Audiobook Review: Dead Air by James Goss

Dead Air by James Goss is a story featuring the tenth Doctor, as portrayed by David Tennant. It seems the Doctor going back to the 60s to track down a creature that could take over (and destroy) the world through the radios. The Doctor lands on a ship, where a radio station is broadcasting from, and tries to find a way to defeat the creature.

I'm a huge Doctor Who fan and since the show is on a break I've been listening to a lot of the stories on audiobook. Of the new Doctors my favourite was David Tennant and I love seeing how many of these stories he's narrated. It's great to hear his voice and go on a new adventure. As I'm also a mystery I love trying to figure out parts of the story and see if I can clue in to how the Doctor will defeat the monster. This story threw me a big curveball at the end that I didn't see coming - thankfully for humanity the Doctor did!!

I really enjoyed this one and I loved David Tennant's narration. Since he played the part of the Doctor he was perfect to narrate. He also provided really good voices to the other characters. I definitely plan to listen to more Doctor Who stories on audiobook format.

About this Audiobook:
Written by: James Goss
Narrated by: David Tennant
Length: 1 hr and 12 mins
 Unabridged Audiobook
Release Date:04-01-10
Publisher: BBC Worldwide Limited

Audiobook Review: In a Witch's Wardrobe by Juliet Blackwell

Witch and vintage clothing store owner, Lily, has a knack for getting herself into "interesting situations". For what starts out as a lovely evening out with fellow witch, Aidan Rhodes, ends up in a mystery when a lady at the Art Deco Ball collpases and Lily thinks foul witchy play is involved!! When Detective Carlos asks for Lily's help with the death of a witch, Tarregan Dark Moon "Tara", Lily thinks the two may be connected. As she delves further into another coven she discovers some very evil magic at play.

I like the Witchcraft mysteries because they are always unexpected!! Lily's life is never boring. Besides the main mystery there is always a lot going on and I never finish reading one of these and think it was dull. For all the things that Lily is, she certainly isn't dull. In this one Lily gets to go to a fancy ball, try to untangle a murder case and help Miriam, who collapsed at the ball and is in a coma!! If that isn't enough there is also her love life. Definitely not dull.

Lily is a interesting character. She was chased out of her hometown by witch hunters and hasn't gotten close to anyone. Even her own mother doesn't like that she's a witch. But she's settling into a good life now, with her vintage clothing store and making friends with fellow witches. I like watching her life evolve, as she becomes happier with herself and her place in San Francisco.

The Witchcraft Mysteries are truly magical. They are everything I love about magical cozy mysteries are more than just a murder mystery! I'm excited to start the next one.

I listened to In a Witch's Wardrobe with the narration by Xe Sands and I can only use one word to describe her narration... flawless. She is the voice of Oscar, Lily's familiar, to me and her narration is part of the reason I love this series so much. If you like audiobooks I suggest trying this series on audio.

About this Audiobook:
Written by: Juliet Blackwell
Narrated by: Xe Sands
Length: 8 hrs and 16 mins 
Series: Witchcraft Mysteries, Book 4
Unabridged Audiobook
Release Date:12-10-12
Publisher: Tantor Audio

Audiobook Review: The Light Fantastic by Terry Pratchett

I'm a huge fan of Terry Pratchett's writing, in particular his Discworld series. I've re-read many of the books multiple times and I've decided to listen to them as audiobooks for the first time. The first one up is The Light Fantastic, which follows the adventures of Rincewind, the Wizard, and Twoflower, the tourist, in Ankh-Morpork. Part of this adventure starts in The Color Magic and continues on in The Light Fantastic. It's high adventure for Rincewind, as he has a history of running away from trouble, but it seems trouble is chasing him!

There is so much to love about the Discworld, and especially the first two books in this series. I love Twoflower for many reasons. One is that my career is the same as his - he sells insurance (or in-sewer-ants as he describes it to Rincewind). He's definitely a glass-is-half-full kind of guy and a perfect match for Rincewind, who is sure the glass is pretty empty. It's fun when these two get together, especially with their invincible Luggage along for the ride, and Conan the Barbarian, who is almost reaching 90!

I really enjoyed this on audio. I have only listened to one other Discworld on audio (Raising Steam) and I'm glad that Nigel Planer's narration lived up to my expectation. His voice for Death is just perfect, as was the scene where Twoflower teaches Death and several gods to play cards! After imagining all these voices in my head for the last two decades of reading these novels, I'm glad to discover that the audiobooks are just as fantastic. I plan to listen to more on audio.

About this Audiobook:
Written by: Terry Pratchett
Narrated by: Nigel Planer
Length: 6 hrs and 59 mins
 Series: Discworld, Book 2
Unabridged Audiobook
Release Date:12-16-99
Publisher: ISIS Audio Books

Audiobook Review: Mentats of Dune by Kevin J Anderson & Brian Herbert

I'm a longtime fan of the Dune series and even though I have started with the House trilogy (written by Kevin J Anderson & Brian Herbert) I have read the original Dune books (many, many times) and I continue to read/listen to new books as they come available.

Mentats of Dune follows Sisterhood of Dune, and the mayhem that is flooding the new empire until the rule of Salvatore Corrino. He ordered the Sisterhood to disband and now they are split into two factions, the Harkonnens are still trying to unleash their fury at the Atreides and at the Mentat school, the headmaster is holding onto a very dangerous secret. There is a lot going on and forever Arrakis stays the same as Venport Holdings retrieve the spice and have their expanded fleet travel across the Empire.

This is not the original Dune and I don't know if this is how Frank Herbert would've written it. I feel like even though humans never learn from their mistakes, I wonder if they would've made this many mistakes. It will be interesting to see how all of this unravels in Navigators of Dune.

The original Dune book is an amazing novel of political intrigue and ecological debate. This new series tends to focus more on the houses and the schools and less on Arrakis. They are vastly different, with the same characters. While I like that Kevin J Anderson & Brian Herbert have continued on with the series, I will still love the original books more. Having said that I will continue to read/listen because I'm curious to see how it all plays out.

About this Audiobook:
Written by: Brian Herbert, Kevin J. Anderson
Narrated by: Scott Brick
Length: 22 hrs and 15 mins 
Series: Schools of Dune, Book 2
Unabridged Audiobook
Release Date:03-11-14
Publisher: Macmillan Audio

Audiobook Review: Agatha Raisin & the Potted Gardener by M.C. Beaton

I'm a very fickle reader. I rarely read more than a couple of books in a series before moving onto another series. I switch my series a lot. However, I've now listened to three Agatha Raisin books almost back-to-back. This is a clear indicator that I'm loving this series so much!

In the third book in the series Agatha Raisin has returned from a holiday abroad to find that her neighbour, James Lacey, is dating newcomber, Mary Fortune. Mary seems to be perfect - a great baker, a fantastic gardener and everyone is talking about her. Not only has she stolen James from her (even though James and Agatha have not dated - yet!) and she is now the center of attention from all the villagers in Carsely. However, when Mary turns up dead it would seem that not everyone is Mary's biggest fan. James and Agatha join forces again to try and solve the mystery.

Agatha, Agatha, Agatha! She talks her mind, and has no problem swearing and saying "crap". Her emotions certainly go through through the ringer in this book. She has such strong affections for James and it breaks my heart that he doesn't return her affections. Instead he almost flaunts Mary in her face. Poor Agatha!! Because of his relationship with Mary, I almost despised James in this book. He wants Agatha as a friend, Mary as a lover and yet he seems excited by the fact that he knows that Agatha adores him. It will be interesting to see whether I like James in the next book.

This series is so perfect for me. There is village gossip, murder and the fabulous Agatha and I absolutely can't get enough of her!

I was so thrilled that Penelope Keith was back to narrate in this third book. She is by far the best narrator of this series. Her delivery is flawless and I can't ever imagine anyone else voicing the impetuous Agatha. I absolutely can't wait for the next book in this series.

About this Audiobook:

Written by: M. C. Beaton
Narrated by: Penelope Keith
Length: 4 hrs and 45 mins
 Series: Agatha Raisin, Book 3
Unabridged Audiobook
Release Date:11-02-12
Publisher: AudioGO

Audiobook Review: The Tragedy of Marsdon Manor by Agatha Christie

Hercule Poirot is asked to investigate the death of a heavily-insured country squire whose estate is in financial ruin. The man is deemed to have committed suicide, which would negate his insurance policy. Upon investigating Poirot is certain that the case is murder, and goes about trying to prove his theory.

Another Agatha Christie short story. Oh how I enjoy them!! Poirot is his crafty, cocky self in this one as he tries to frame the murderer. In fact he is very dramatic about it all, which suits Poirot's personality to a tea.

I listened on audio, and I would highly recommend it. The high drama in this short story is certainly suited to the audio.

About this Audiobook:

Written by: Agatha Christie 

Narrated by: Hugh Fraser 

Length: 30 mins 

Unabridged Audiobook 

Release Date:12-18-12 

Publisher: HarperAudio

Audiobook Review: The Sky is Everywhere by Jandy Nelson

In The Sky is Everywhere Lennie Walker is grieving over the sudden death of her sister, Bailey. One minute Bailey was with them, laughing, planning her life, and the next she was gone. With their mother having walked out on them when they were babies, Lennie turns to Bailey's boyfriend for comfort, and becomes entangled in a messy relationship between herself and Toby, and also herself and a new guy to town, Joe Fontaine. As the summer unfolds, Lennie and her family come to terms with their grief and a life without Bailey, and Lennie herself learns more about herself then she ever knew.

There are a lot of teen books about grief of lost ones, whether a sibling, a parent, a boyfriend. I had bought this one at a Audible sale a while ago and hadn't heard of the author before so I wasn't sure what to expect. What a got was a very real story about the conflicting emotions of a teen after the loss of her sister. Bailey and Lennie weren't just sisters, they were everything to each other. After their mother abandoned them they were raised by their Uncle and Grandmother. This non-traditional family unit were very close, and the loss of Bailey deeply affected them all.

In the story Lennie turns to Bailey's boyfriend, Toby, for comfort. At times I couldn't believe that she was making out with her dead sister's boyfriend, but at the same she was grieving. This part of the story made me feel like Lennie was unbelievable selfish and immature, not seeing the grief that the rest of her family were going through. However, the other characters in the story really turned it around for me. Between the colorful and bright Uncle Big, and her Grandmother's beautiful gardens, and to the every happy Joe Fontaine.

I wasn't expecting to enjoy The Sky is Everywhere as much as I did. In fact half way through I thought that Lennie's immature behaviour would make this a "Do Not Finish", but I stuck through it and ended up really enjoying the end.

It was a good story about growing up and dealing with the loss of not just your sister but your best friend.

This was my first Julia Whelan audiobook, but it won't be my last. I loved the voices she used for the grandmother and Uncle, and definitely plan to listen to more of her audios.

About this Audiobook:

Written by: Jandy Nelson

Narrated by: Julia Whelan

Length: 7 hrs and 14 mins

Unabridged Audiobook

Release Date:03-09-10

Publisher: Brilliance Audio

Audiobook Review: What Really Happened in Peru by Cassandra Clare & Sarah Rees Brennan

In the first book in the Bane Chronicles, the reader journeys with warlock Magnus Bane to Peru on adventures of the mortal and magical kind. Magnus, together with fellow warlock Ragnus, causes all sorts of mischief and adventure as he unravels the tale of why he is banned from Peru.

I've only read the first two books in the Mortal Instruments series but I couldn't resist trying this new series that centres around Magnus Bane. I must confess that Magnus is one of my favorite characters in the Mortal Instruments series. I really like his style, flair and sense of humor and was looking forward to reading more about him in this new series.

The first book tells of his adventures in Peru and oh what wild adventures they are! In one time he gets so drunk that he enchants a carpet and flies across the desert in it. In another he tries to help a ship avoid pirates and both Rangus and Magnus end up in a mess of guano!

Ragnus was a fun, snarky character, who is the opposite of Magnus, but still a hoot. They make a good combination together.

I liked this first story and plan to read the rest of the short stories in this series. Well recommended for fantasy fans and fans of the Mortal Instruments.

About this Audiobook:

Written by: Cassandra Clare, Sarah Rees Brennan
Narrated by: Jesse Williams
Length: 1 hr and 13 mins 
Series: The Bane Chronicles, Book 1
Unabridged Audiobook
Release Date:04-16-13
Publisher: Simon & Schuster Audio

Audiobook Review: Amy & Roger's Epic Detour by Morgan Matson

Amy has had a difficult time lately. Her father died in a car accident, her brother is in rehab and her mother has fled to Connecticut. Now that school is over, Amy is expected to drive across country with Roger, a friend of the family. The only problem is Amy is too scared to get behind the wheel since the accident. So with Roger behind the wheel, they ahead across the country. With Amy dealing with her grief, Roger has his own reasons for wanting to take a detour. Thus they take the detour of their lives and learn more about themselves then they thought was possible.

I bought Amy & Roger's Epic Detour over a year ago and its been sitting on my audio shelf for a while, unlistened to. I decided I was in the mood for some contemporary YA fiction and picked this one up. I don't listen to a lot of contemporary YA fiction, maybe 1-2 books a year. I love paranormal, fantasy, dystopia and science fiction in the YA genre, but not a lot of contemporary fiction. So I went into this one with a little hesitation. I came out the other side with a huge appreciation for Morgan Matson and this great story.

Amy & Roger's Epic Detour is the best road trip book ever. It is told from Amy's point of view, and includes songs they listened to, places they visits and each state's motto. I'm an Australian that now resides in Canada, and I've only visited 2-3 US states. I felt like I was experiencing the US for almost the first time as Amy and Roger take a trip from California, through Nevada, Colorado and so many detours until they end up in Philadelphia and Connecticut.

It was a great road trip full of self-discovery and I enjoyed listening, watching each of their stories unravel. Amy & Roger's Epic Detour was at times emotional, especially as Amy unravels the full story of her father's death. She meets people she never thought she'd meet, and she starts the road to recovery and healing from the loss of her father. It was a beautiful, beautiful story that makes me want to hop in a car and head somewhere!

This was my first time listening to Suzy Jackson and I liked that her voice was just young enough to match the idea I had of Amy's voice in my head. She really put all the emotion into the narration that was in Morgan Matson's words and made it a very enjoyable experience. I will definitely pick up another audiobook narrated by Suzy Jackson.

I'd recommend Amy & Roger's Epic Detour to not just fans of YA fiction, but anyone that wants to remember that great feeling of hoping in the car and driving, and making those detours that make life interesting.

About this Audiobook:

Written by: Morgan Matson

Narrated by: Suzy Jackson

Length: 10 hrs and 8 mins

Unabridged Audiobook

Release Date:12-10-10

Publisher: Audible Studios

Audiobook Review: Sisterhood of Dune by Kevin J Anderson & Brian Herbert

The Battle of Corrin is long over, and the Imperium is still in recovery mode. It's been 83 years since the last thinking machine was destroyed, and the Emperor is now Salvatore Corrino. The descents of Harkonnen are still seeking vengeance against the Atreides, as they live exiled and in disgrace. The schools of the Imperium are trying to make headway: the Mentats school, the Sisterhood and the Suks. With Manford Torondo leading the charge of the Butlerians and trying to find (and destroy) any last remains of technology, its a very fragile Imperium. A Imperium trying to recover and forge a new way for the future.

I want to start this review with a little disclaimer. I'm a fan of the original six Dune novels, but I was introduced to Dune, as an adult, with House Atreides. I devoured that trilogy and moved onto the original six novels and have loved the Duneverse ever since. That was 14 years ago and every year I either re-read several Dune novels or catch up on the latest release. I'm thankful for Kevin J Anderson and Brian Herbert carrying on this legacy. The additional novels will never be like the originals, but I appreciate them for what they are - a delightful continuation of the Dune saga. I'm part of #TeamAtredies and #TeamSisterhood. Ever since House Atreides I've been fascinated by the history behind both of these parts of Imperium.

In the trilogy set around the thinking machines we learn about how the feud between the Atreides and the Harkonnens began, and it is still in full force in Sisterhood of Dune. Griffen Harkonnen goes to find Vorian Atreides and to avenge his family. Meanwhile his sister, Valya, attends the Sisterhood to become a sister and discovers a very ailing school.

In Sisterhood of Dune I quickly got swept up in the action across the Imperium. I was fascinated by how many industries, that we take for granted in the later books, made their start in the recovering Imperium. Norma Cenva, who developed the fold space technology, is still alive and the Venport Holdings is trying to take over all of the space travel.

I listened to Sisterhood of Dune on audio and I enjoyed Scott Brick's interpretation of all the characters. While there is more of a full cast on the originals, Scott Brick does a great job of capturing the atmosphere of the troubling Imperium and it was a enjoyable listen.

Sisterhood of Dune was a re-read for me (first time listening on audio) and it was the perfect way to catch up before I start Mentats of Dune (which was released today). If you are new to the Duneverse, I recommend starting with the classic Dune.

About this Audiobook:
Written by: Brian Herbert, Kevin J. Anderson
Narrated by: Scott Brick
Length: 20 hrs and 39 mins
Series: Dune Saga, Book 17
Series: Schools of Dune, Book 1
Unabridged Audiobook
Release Date:01-03-12
Publisher: Macmillan Audio

Audiobook Review: Death of a Snob by M.C. Beaton

It's the holiday season, and Hamish Macbeth is heading to the Happy Wanderer, a scottish health farm. The owner, Jane Weatherby, is worried that someone is plotting to kill her and invites Hamish for the holidays to investigate. At the Happy Wanderer Hamish discovers an eclectic group of Jane's friends, none of which would seem to want Jane dead. However, when one of the guests is killed instead, Hamish wonders if it was a case of mistaken identity or whether the snobby, mean woman, Heather, was the intended victim.

I really enjoy the Hamish Macbeth mysteries. They have a beautiful English-Scottish flair to them, and Hamish, as the bumbling police officer is simply adorable. Death of a Snob had a nice holiday setting, and even though it's March I was getting into quite the holiday spirit listening to this one.

I found it interesting, that in Death of a Snob, Priscilla gets to meet Hamish's parents. In the previous books there has been a on-off flirtation between Priscilla and Hamish. While there is no relationship between them, I liked that Priscilla got to meet Hamish's family while Hamish was away. Hamish comes from a big family, and the complete opposite of Priscilla's fancy yet small family and I think she definitely looks at Hamish a different way after spending time with the Macbeths.

The mystery in this one was good and for those us that like mysteries involving authors then you will definitely enjoy the author angle here.

Shaun Grindell voices Hamish Macbeth and he does a superb job on the accents. I love all the Scottish and English and even an American accent! I plan to listen to the rest of the books in this series as audiobooks because this one was that enjoyable. The audiobook is short at just over 4 hours but I think it would be perfect for a car trip! Definitely a good series to discover on audio.

About this Audiobook:
Written by: M. C. Beaton
Narrated by: Shaun Grindell
Length: 4 hrs and 34 mins
 Series: Hamish Macbeth Mysteries, Book 6
Unabridged Audiobook
Release Date:10-23-13
Publisher: Blackstone Audio, Inc.

Audiobook Review: Just One Year by Gayle Forman

After spending a perfect day with "Lulu", Willem wakes up in the hospital, with Lulu nowhere in sight. Willem retraces his steps to discover how he ended up in the hospital and sets out to find Lulu. Along the way he tells the story of his family and the great disconnect between his mother and himself, and learns more about himself then he thought he knew.

I don't read a lot of contemporary YA fiction. I have a couple of favorite authors that write contemporary YA fiction and I generally try to read/listen to their books. These include Maureen Johnson, John Green, Rainbow Rowell and Gayle Forman. I loved the If I Stay/Where She Went books and also Just One Day (the first half of this series). I'd heard mixed reviews about Just One Year, but I decided I needed to know how Willem and Lulu's journey would end.

After having finished the audiobook of Just One Year, I have to say this was the story that "I" wanted told. It might not be the story that everyone wanted to hear, but it was the one I wanted. I wanted to know why Willem had been travelling for so long, never stopping long, never spending any real time with anyone. In Just One Year we find out why he is this way and what it takes to make him keep his roots in Amsterdam. We find out the story of his past and his family, and how the disconnect between his mother and himself and his Uncle starts to narrow and they become more of a family. We delve into his acting and feel his passion for it. It is a beautiful story.

Gayle Forman writes a beautiful story, and I enjoyed every minute of it. Loving travel myself, I loved all of Willem's travels from India to Amsterdam to Cancun - it was a great a adventure! I loved all the colorful people he meets on the way and we meet his friends in Amsterdam and his family. It was a great story and even though I personally would've liked more Lulu, I still loved every second of it.

Daniel May narrates Just One Year and gives a great voice to the character of Willem. There is a diversity of accents in this book and he delivers them all superbly. I wouldn't hesitate recommending this series to YA fans. I do recommend starting with Just One Day though to get the full experience of these two books.

About this Audiobook: 
Written by: Gayle Forman
Narrated by: Daniel May
Length: 8 hrs and 12 mins
 Unabridged Audiobook
Release Date:10-10-13
Publisher: Penguin Audio

Audiobook Review: Killing Cupid by Laura Levine

It's almost Valentine's Day and the only date on Jaine's horizon appears to be her cat, Prozac. However things start looking up when she's asked to write a brochure for a dating agency, Dates of Joy. However Joy Amoroso is the latest thing from joy, instead she's a cruel woman that is intend on taking money from people and not finding them their true loves, as she promised. Jaine wants to write her brochure, earn her money and get as far away from her as she can. Unfortunately Joy also promises to set Jaine up with someone. However her intended date is the last person Jaine would want to date, a rich, old guy that seems obsessed with her cat. Jaine isn't surprised when Joy drops dead from a poisoned chocolate, as there seems to be a lot of people that wanted her dead - herself included. With Prozac's, her cat, help she will have to untangle this mystery before she ends up behind bars.

I've read all of the mysteries in this series, starting with This Pen For Hire. I like the zany antics of Jaine and her gay shoe-salesman neighbour, Lance, and her kooky parents that live in a retirement village in Florida, and have a addiction to buying unnecessary items on late night tv. Together they make for a fun mystery series and I've been hooked from the start.

I was thrilled to discover that Killing Cupid would be available as an audiobook as I've previously read all the books in this series and I wanted to experience Jaine in audio format. While the narrator, Brittany Pressley, wasn't the voice I had thought of in my mind, from reading the previous eleven novels, I quickly adapted and grew to enjoy her impressions of Jaine, Lance, Prozac and all the oddballs at the dating agency.

The mystery itself was fun. I love discovering that the murder victim wasn't well liked because there is always a great variety of murder suspects. In this case, there was a long line of disgruntled dating customers and even Joy's own Aunt, who she stole the business from. It was certainly difficult trying to figure out who the killer was.

Killing Cupid was another fun, zany instalment in the Jaine Austen mysteries. If you're looking for a mystery series with a lot of laughs, then I suggest trying out these mysteries. They are best read in order, so start with A Pen For Hire. For me, I'm now patiently waiting as I look forward to discovering what Jaine gets up to next and I'm hoping that there might be some romance in store for Jaine too!

About this Audiobook:
Written by: Laura Levine
Narrated by: Brittany Pressley
Length: 6 hrs and 43 mins
 Series: Jaine Austen Mysteries, Book 12
Unabridged Audiobook
Release Date:12-31-13
Publisher: Audible Studios