Audiobooks to listen to: Bone Frog Bachelor series

Hello and welcome!

This review post on the Bone Frog Bachelor series by Sharon Hamilton has been in the works for a while now and way past due.

I should know better by now that is best to put down my thoughts while the story is fresh in my mind than be greedy and start the next book because I am curious how the characters will do next, but that is what Ms. Hamilton’s characters do to me. I want to know more and I want it now LOL

But as they say, better late than never, right?

Bone Frog Bachelor Series

This series involves the same couple: former billionaire and Navy SEAL Marco Gambini and his new love, Shannon Marr, as they traverse oceans and play in the dangerous world of assassins and mercenaries while clawing their way back from the brink of destruction, restoring Marco’s powerful fortune earned through his successful shipping, real estate and protection businesses. With each book in this series, Shannon grows into the partner he’s always wanted: someone worthy of his trust as his right-hand woman, as well as the woman who can match him in every way in the bedroom.

I listened to the audiobooks 1, 2 and 3 in the series.

UNLEASHED: Former SEAL’s Mission Begins
Bone Frog Bachelor, Book 1

A fast-paced and surprising sensual adventure that tests the limits of love

Armed with new focus and passion for restoring his rightful place atop his private security, shipping, and consulting empire, former Navy SEAL Marco Gambini takes his new love on a dangerous and romantic pre-honeymoon to the Pink Pasha on a private island owned by the Sultan of Bonin.

At the exotic sultan’s palace, nestled in the lush jungle, pink coral sand beaches, and clear turquoise waters of the Indian Ocean, Shannon and Marco dance with harem wives and battle ruthless pirates, kidnappers, and assassins.

Who can they trust?

Shannon Marr is up to more than just being Marco’s sexual distraction and future bride. She inserts herself into the mission being planned to protect two of the Sultan’s sons as they endeavor to grow their development business in West Africa.

The stakes are high, but the rewards, both physically as well as emotionally, are worth it. Shannon is determined to earn her keep by helping Marco reclaim his own kingdom. She learns to trust her billionaire fiancée as she experiments in the exotic world of the Sultan’s palace, where erotic passion is a way of life. She becomes Marco’s gift, by exposing the strengths of her soft but warrior-strong womanhood.

Find out if they save each other or go down in delicious flames together in this fast-paced and surprising sensual adventure where they test new limits of their love. You won’t want this story to end, and you’ll crave book two.

Together, if they can survive, their partnership could be unstoppable.

Author’s note: The Bone Frog Bachelor series is the continuation of Marco and Shannon’s adventures. Through the continual discovery of passion and courage, this couple begins building the foundation for an unstoppable future. Although each is a stand-alone novel, listeners who are not familiar with the Bone Frog Bachelor series should listen to: Bone Frog Bachelor, Sharon’s contribution to the Bachelor Tower series launched and still ongoing.

My review: 5 stars

I didn’t listen to the prequel, I will have to remedy that soon as there were times that I would have understood a situation or conversation better if I had.

Marco and Shannon’s chemistry is hot, shown in steamy scenes along the way, as they deal with their past history, working on strengthening their relationship. The book also has the usual suspense the author is known for, the quick-thinking action of Marco’s team saves the day. Loved the peek into the way of life in the palace of the Sultan of Bonin.

It ended with a promise of continuation and I am looking forward to the next instalment.

I enjoyed listening to JD Hart, as usual a 5-star listen.

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RESTORED: Marco Fights Back
Bone Frog Bachelor, Book 2

Marco and Shannon’s hot liquid romance scorches the Florida Gulf Coast.

Marco Gambini’s Bone Frog Development begins building the Trident Towers project on the Gulf Coast of Florida, managing a diverse team of characters including the two princes, Khalil and Absalom, sons of the Sultan of Bonin…but Rebecca, his vindictive and controlling ex, is doing everything she can to sabotage the project and his relationship with his fiancee Shannon.

Marco also begins building Shannon’s dream home nearby. But this former SEAL finds hosting two pampered princelings, who have never in their lives lived without servants and have never done any hard labor, proves more problematic than previously thought.

Shannon finds exciting new challenges, learning about Marco’s unique sexual needs, and experimenting with her own triggers and desires as she explores her limits. Their love burns deeper in all areas as they plan a lavish and eccentric wedding at the Pink Palace.

A bomb blast at Marco’s office also shatters the tranquility of their relationship and their future, as the past comes back to haunt them both.

Just as one problem is solved, a quick trip to Central Africa leads to sudden danger and near-death for part of the team. Shannon learns even more about how her trust in Marco could save them both.

But be warned. There are storm clouds brewing. All is not as it seems. You’ll want to continue with book three coming next, Revenge.

Author’s note
Suggested listening order: Bone Frog Bachelor, Unleashed, Restored. Bone Frog Bachelor will not show up as book one on the series page, but it essentially is. This was the series starter, appearing in Ruth Cardello’s Bachelor Towers series originally. I continued on with these characters with her permission.

Here is a sample to listen to…

My review: 5 stars

This story was quite exciting and full of suspense, angst. The misunderstandings threaten Shannon and Marco’s relationship.
She gets through quite an ordeal being kidnapped, while Marco fights for his life caused by the bomb explosion at his company’s head office. Finding who was involved in both incidents is on-going.

Ending with a promise of more excitement to come. Looking forward to the next book, I want to know what happens next and listen about their wedding.

JD Hart did a wonderful job telling the story as usual. I love listening to his voice.

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REVENGE
Bone Frog Bachelor, Book 3

They’ve planned the wedding of a lifetime—but will enemy forces keep them from reaching the altar?

Marco is a former Navy SEAL who now oversees the construction of veterans’ housing. He’s counting down the days to his future with Shannon, the love of his life. However, the bomber whose blast injured Marco and destroyed his headquarters in Florida is still at large and still holds the potential to affect all areas of Marco’s life.

Shannon can’t wait until the day of her lavish wedding, which will take place at a Sultan’s palace in the Indian Ocean. All the RSVPs have already been counted when unseen forces threaten to destroy Marco’s vision and sabotage his company. With Marco fighting ruthless warlords halfway around the world, it’s up to Shannon to support him on the home front.

But is Shannon equipped to help Marco when danger engulfs them both? Will they succeed in their respective missions and arrive on the Sultan’s paradise island kingdom in time to walk down the aisle?

Author’s note: Revenge is the third book in the Bone Frog Bachelor series which follows Marco and Shannon’s steamy-hot romance from the first time they cross a scorching hot path on Florida’s Gulf Coast to exotic locations around the globe.

My review: 5 stars

While Marco is on a rescue mission, Shannon is left behind and she is determined to help in any way she can with the projects. She finds an unlikely ally in Marco’s ex-wife that surprised me and was quite a personality switch from the previous books.

We knew that the Sultan arrived in Florida at the end of book 2. In this story we get to hear how his visit is going. The pink flamingo shorts made me laugh.

So there is quite a lot going on in this book, but this is not the end of the couple’s journey to their HEA, and I hope the next book will give them that.

The characters were brought to life by the amazing voice of JD Hart, one of my fave narrators.

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I am looking forward to book 4 in the series, ‘Legacy‘, releasing in ebook format November 3, 2022, and hopefully soon after in audio.

Former Navy SEAL billionaire Marco Gambini and his forever love, Shannon, are back together again after a harrowing rescue of Marco’s advance team in Africa, threatening to cancel their long-planned wedding at the Pink Palace owned by the Sultan of Bonin.

He has hosted the Sultan and his entourage for a month, and now they leave to return home to their Indian Island kingdom, to prepare for the big wedding. Plans for building the housing project in West Africa are on hold, temporarily, while they ready themselves for the biggest adventure of their lives: their wedding day.

That is, if the bad guys and dangerous militia in Africa will leave them alone. Armed with vengeance and hatred, the terrorist group plans the ultimate revenge, putting more than just Marco’s company in jeopardy. They attempt the unthinkable.

Only Marco and his team are up to the task of not only saving their special day, but preserving a dying man’s legacy.

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I hope you will give the series a try, available in ebook, print or audio, follow the link from Sharon Hamilton’s website. While there, check out the other series too, I am sure you will find your next BBF there too 😉

The voice giving life to the many voices in the books is one of my ‘eargasm’ narrators whom you probably saw me mention on my blog many times, the The Pirate Storyteller, JD Hart! He is the voice that brings all Sharon Hamilton‘s characters to life. I love it when he whispers in my ear. Check out all JD Hart’s work on his website. He creates the audio samples and the awesome book trailers too, see youtube.

The model on the covers of this series is Jose Luis Barreiro. Isn’t he scrumptious? I think he fits Marco’s character quite well. Great choice Ms. Hamilton.
I watched an interview he had with Sharon Hamilton and he is so much more that eye candy, down to earth and very likeable.

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Until next time, happy book reading / listening and don’t forget to show your love by leaving a review!

Audiobook to listen to: The Chameleon Effect

Hello and welcome!

I waited a few days after buying the audiobook to actually starting it.

Why? Not sure. Maybe because it was written by one of my fave narrators who is up there on my ‘eargasm’ list and I was afraid to start it knowing I will finish it in no time.

Lights. Camera. Action…

I’ve got everything it takes to make it in Tinseltown: confidence, charisma, and a killer chin. Now all I need is a chance.

But Los Angeles is full of hot, young hunks, and talent might not be enough to separate me from the cookie-cutter crowd.

Well, you know what they say: fake it till you make it.

So I devise a wild scheme to get noticed. Pretend I’m someone I’m not—goodbye Will O’Connell of Cincinnati and hello Liam O’Connell of Dublin.

‘Liam’ and his talent with accents is enough to get my foot in the door, but I never anticipated meeting the woman who has me more worried about keeping my foot out of my mouth.

Enter Raven Locke, the dark-haired bombshell who puts the ‘tude in tattooed.

On set, she’s the costumer tasked with fitting my pants, but all I can think about is how to get into hers.

As my — I mean, Liam’s — budding career begins to heat up, so do our feelings.

While Raven pursues her passion for fashion; I chase her heart.

Our picture-perfect screenplay seems sure to send us riding off onto Sunset Boulevard… Until Raven finds out that Comedy and Tragedy aren’t the only masks I’m wearing. Our romance might be destined for the cutting room floor, unless I can salvage our story with a plot twist she won’t see coming.

This first-person, male-POV rom-com has it all: lots of heat, plenty of heart, and a Hollywood-worthy HEA.

My review

Story – 5 stars
Performance – 5 stars

I didn’t go in with any expectations, as with every new author. This book is a sweet romcom story with little angst, from the hero’s POV. He is lovable from the beginning, the way he interacted with his family and friends. The heroine is spunky, talented and a great personality. Their road to HEA is a bit bumpy but left me a smile imagining how well they match. Their chemistry is combustible, there are some steamy moments between them. Great secondary characters round out the story, especially his precocious niece, she was a hoot, and his friend and trainer Devontay (I hope I spelled his name right), I hope the author gives him a HEA too in the next book.

I listened to a lot of books narrated by Joe Arden and I loooove his voice. He is very talented, tailoring his voice to each character. He did justice to the story, switching between accents with ease. Characters’ emotions are heard which is important in an audiobook.

Maxine Mitchell’s interludes are a great addition to the aural experience offering glimpses into Raven’s mind. She brought the heroine to life with effortless charm.

The blooper reel is a great addition at the end.

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Buy Links: Amazon • Audible • Signed Special Edition Hardback • Signed Paperback

Add it to your Goodreads TBR list.

Check out all about Joe Arden at the website.

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Until next time, happy reading / listening!

NEW RELEASE – The Chameleon Effect by Joe Arden

Hello and welcome!

The much anticipated debut book by one of my ‘eargasm’ voices, Joe Arden, released today!

Congrats Mr. Arden!

Lights. Camera. Action…

I’ve got everything it takes to make it in Tinseltown: confidence, charisma, and a killer chin. Now all I need is a chance.

But Los Angeles is full of hot, young hunks, and talent might not be enough to separate me from the cookie-cutter crowd.

Well, you know what they say: fake it till you make it.

So I devise a wild scheme to get noticed. Pretend I’m someone I’m not—goodbye Will O’Connell of Cincinnati and hello Liam O’Connell of Dublin.

‘Liam’ and his talent with accents is enough to get my foot in the door, but I never anticipated meeting the woman who has me more worried about keeping my foot out of my mouth.

Enter Raven Locke, the dark-haired bombshell who puts the ‘tude in tattooed.

On set, she’s the costumer tasked with fitting my pants, but all I can think about is how to get into hers.

As my — I mean, Liam’s — budding career begins to heat up, so do our feelings.

While Raven pursues her passion for fashion; I chase her heart.

Our picture-perfect screenplay seems sure to send us riding off onto Sunset Boulevard… Until Raven finds out that Comedy and Tragedy aren’t the only masks I’m wearing. Our romance might be destined for the cutting room floor, unless I can salvage our story with a plot twist she won’t see coming.

This first-person, male-POV rom-com has it all: lots of heat, plenty of heart, and a Hollywood-worthy HEA.

Cover designed by Enchanting Romance Designs

Model: Adam Perry

Photographer: Chris Carroll

Read FREE with Kindle Unlimited!

Buy Links: Amazon • Audible • Signed Special Edition Hardback • Signed Paperback

Add it to your Goodreads TBR list.

Check out all about Joe Arden at the website.

I can’t wait to listen to the audiobook!

Until next time, happy reading / listening!

Audiobooks to listen to: Forever Mine

Hello and welcome!

I was the lucky receiver of an ALC of this audiobook and I am glad I accepted the offer. My friend told me that I will not be able to stop listening once I start and she was right.

Thrown back to the year 1897, Victoria Ashton is mistaken for, and forced to impersonate, the spiteful, unfaithful Countess of Guildford, who’s been missing for three weeks. Despite Victoria’s attempts to convince the earl she’s not his wife, her double’s infidelity and lies make it difficult, especially when Victoria falls in love with a man who loathes her.

Nicholas Thornhill, Earl of Guildford, is plagued with rumors he murdered his missing wife. When she unexpectedly reappears, he scoffs at her latest in a long string of lies. But the changes in Victoria make him alter his opinion as he forges a bond with her that crosses the boundaries of time.

Add it to your Goodreads TBR list.

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My review

Story – 5 stars
Performance – 5 stars

I thought that I read/listened to all the types of time travel stories… well… Monica Burns proved me wrong.

This is my first book from the author and the narrators, Stephanie Németh-Parker and Zachary Johnson, are new to me too. I fell in love with their voices and have to add them to my eargasm list.

I loved listening as they bring this story to life duet style, it is different from what I listened to before, the story is gripping switching between present and future, has a little of everything… suspense, intrigue, romance, steam.

The story elicited many emotions, I laughed, I cried, I shouted out loud that it made me mad. A rocky but exciting journey to the HEA they both deserve.

I received an ALC for an honest review.

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About the author

Monica Burns is a bestselling author of spicy historical, contemporary, and paranormal romance. She is also the winner of the 2015 Gold Medal International Book Award, 2016 IPPY Bronze for FOREVER MINE. At the age of nine, Monica displayed an aptitude for psychic abilities. It was then she wrote her first romance and signed it with the pseudonym she uses today—Monica Burns. She’s bought four houses based on her dreams and been within $500 of all sale/purchase prices. No she hasn’t been able to predict lottery numbers, although she sure wishes she could.

Her historical book awards include the 2011 RT BookReviews Reviewers Choice Award and the 2012 Gayle Wilson Heart of Excellence Award for Pleasure Me. She is also the recipient of the prestigious paranormal romance award, the 2011 PRISM Best of the Best award for Assassin’s Heart. From the days when she hid her stories from her sisters to her first completed full-length manuscript, she always believed in her dream despite rejections and setbacks. A workaholic wife and mother, Monica is a survivor who believes every hero and heroine deserves a HEA (Happily Ever After), especially if she’s writing the story.

Check out the website for more info and links to social media.

About the narrators

Stephanie Németh-Parker

Professional voiceover for audiobooks, commercials, corporate, medical and eLearning
An award-winning SAG-AFTRA audiobook narrator, voiceover artist and actress with 20+ years acting experience. Her voice has been described as warm and strong, with an underlying vulnerability that can easily turn snarky when needed.

Her versatility and adeptness with accents has enabled her to work in many different areas of the voiceover community – from commercials to corporate narration, animation to audiobooks.

She was the voice of Omega Watches for over 5 years and have done over a hundred voiceovers with clients including IKEA, Audi, Novartis, Roche, and Swiss Airlines to name a few.

She narrate Romance, Fantasy, YA, Thrillers, Cozy Mysteries, Non-Fiction, Horror, Memoirs and LGBTQ+.

Accents include: US – Southern, Midwest, California; British, Irish, French, German, Italian, Hungarian, Russian, Spanish and various Latin American accents.

Check out her website for more info and links to social media.

Zachary Johnson

Lover of mathematics, devourer of science fiction, and connoisseur of the dad joke. When he’s not doing math for business or fun, he’s devouring science fiction and fantasy, reading up on scientific advancements, going for a jog, or, on all too rare occasions, taking a refreshing swim at the beach. At your service, you shall have an able storyteller and gifted conveyor of information. Experienced in narrating fiction, from the romantic to the post-apocalyptic, and nonfiction, from the historical to the corporate, and armed with the tools to make it all sound great, Zachary promises that, no matter the job, you’ll be read-iculously pleased!

Check out his website for more info and links to social media.

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I am so looking forward to listen to more audiobooks from the author and the narrators.

Until next time, happy reading / listening!

Audiobooks to listen to: The Hunter and the Heiress

Hello and welcome!

I was so happy to be back in Claire Delacroix‘s Blood Brothers world. I just finished book 2 in the series, The Hunter and the Heiress. I hope you give it a chance, reading or listening to it.

Nothing could be further from Amaury de Vries’ expectations than joining his half-brother’s company of mercenaries, in the wilds of Scotland. A knight and a champion at the joust, he expected to inherit a holding – until the man he has known as his father revealed a terrible truth, and disavowed him. Left with nothing, Amaury rides to Kilderrick, where he loses his heart to a beautiful noblewoman in the forest. A practical man, he knows he has no right to court the lady, but when she is abducted, Amaury follows, determined to fulfill his knightly duty by aiding a damsel in distress.

Elizabeth d’Acron has been a pawn and a prize, pursued for her father’s wealthy holding, and wants only to be desired for herself. Seized again, she vows she will surrender to no man – even the handsome knight who comes to her rescue. And truly, there could be no one more vexing than this confident yet inscrutable man, so concerned with duty that he could be wrought of stone. But Elizabeth soon learns that she can trust Amaury to defend her at any cost. She does not expect the seductive fire, awakened by his touch, much less his conquest of her wary heart – but has she fallen in love with a man whose affections are already claimed?

Snared between duty and passion, Amaury finds himself beguiled by the lady who challenges his every expectation, but knows he has little to offer her. But when Elizabeth is threatened by a former suitor who will not be refused, Amaury risks his all in her defense, hoping it will be enough. But can he intervene in time? And will love alone convince Elizabeth to place her hand in his for all time?

Add it to your Goodreads TBR list.

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My review:

Story – 5 stars
Performance – 5 stars

So happy to be back in this world. Amari really surprised me and I should have known the author will not let him be what he appeared in the first book. I loved his conviction of doing the right thing even if it is not what he planned and Elisabeth didn’t make it easy on him. At times I wanted to smack them both for not speaking out and only guessing what the other felt. Lots of twists and the author didn’t let me guess who was the real villain as usual. Loved, love, loved the ending! So happy I could burst!

Timothy Campbell is on my ‘eargasm’ list from the first book, and he really outdid the last one. Looking forward the next one, hopefully soon.

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About the author

Bestselling and award-winning author Claire Delacroix has published over seventy novels and novellas. Her first book, Romance of the Rose was published in 1993. She is USA Today and nationally bestselling, and her medieval romance, The Beauty, was her first book to land on the New York Times List of Bestselling Books.

Claire Delacroix is a pseudonym used by Deborah Cooke for her historical and fantasy romances. Deborah also publishes contemporary and paranormal romances as Deborah Cooke and has written as Claire Cross.

Check out the website for more info and links to social media.

About the narrator

Tim Campbell is an award winning actor and singer who lives in Los Angeles, CA. He works primarily in audiobook narration and voice over and has narrated hundreds of titles spanning almost every genre. He has won or been nominated for almost every major award in the audiobook industry, including most recently a 2018 Audie, a 2019 Audie (nom), a 2019 Voice Arts Award, and several Independent Audiobook and Audiofile Magazine Earphones awards. Career highlights include Moby Dick (Brilliance Audio), Labarynth (Catherine Coulter), The Phantom of the Opera (Brilliance Audio), The Joe Dillard Legal Thrillers (Tim Campbell/Audible Studios), The Unhuman/Inspector Hobbes series (Findaway), The Mountain (HighBridge) and various short stories and novellas by Neil Gaiman, Sir Arthur Conan Doyle, Mary Shelley, Rudyard Kipling, HG Wells, Jules Verne, Ken Liu, Helen DeWitt, and many many others. He lived and trained in the UK and Germany, narrates as both an American and a Brit, and has studied performance diction in German, Italian, French, Spanish and Japanese, and Latin. He specializes in accents, dialects, and character work and holds three degrees in theater and music as well as graduating from the esteemed two year Great Books Colloquium of Pepperdine University.

In his other, musical life, Tim sings regularly with the LA Master Chorale, Los Angeles Opera, and in studio sessions for TV and Film. Highlights include principal ensemble in Candide at LA Opera, Courfeyrac in Les Miserables at Fresno Grand Opera, Jud in Oklahoma with Cabrillo Music Theater, and Anthony in Sweeney Todd with Pacific Opera Project and singing on the soundtrack for Star Wars IX: The Rise of Skywalker and films such as Creed 2, Venom, and many others.

Check out the website for more info and links to social media.

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In case you missed it, check out my review for the first book in the series, The Wolf and the Witch.

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Until next time, happy reading / listening!

Audiobooks to listen to: The Wolf and the Witch

Hello and welcome!

I recommend this story with 5 stars!

The Wolf and the Witch is book 1 in the Blood Brothers series by one of my fave authors, Claire Delacroix.

The three sons of a notorious mercenary should never have met…but now that they are sworn allies, the Scottish Borders will never be the same….

Denied his rightful legacy, Maximilian de Vries devised a plan to avenge himself upon his father and see his own future secured. Allied with his two forgotten half-brothers, he descends upon ancient and mysterious Kilderrick, determined to claim it at any price. A woman rumored to be a witch is the sole one bold enough to defy him but Maximilian has a solution – he will take her to wife, whether she be willing or nay, and seal his claim.

But this powerful warrior has yet to match wits with Alys Armstrong, a maiden with a thirst for vengeance and a fury that might exceed his own. Alys has no intention of capitulating to the proud and illegitimate son of the rogue who stole everything from her, and she does not share his avowed compulsion to fight fair.

Bitter enemies from the outset, Maximilian and Alys’ match is a battle of wills. When anger turns to passion, will either of them be able to resist temptation? And when Kilderrick itself is in peril, will they be able to join forces to save the unexpected love they have come to value above all else?

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My review:

Story – 5 stars
Performance – 5 stars

I loved all the books by Ms. Delacroix that I listened to so far and this is no different.
The story is not what appears at the beginning, it emerges in stages, with many twists and it was a delight to be on this journey with Maximilian and Alys to their HEA. At times I didn’t think they will make it, but make it they did and then some. The characters will make you like, love or hate them, but all unforgettable. Loved the ending, left me with a happy heart.

Timothy Campbell is a new-to-me voice and oh so yummy, an ‘eargasm’ for sure, varied to reflect each character. My fave is the voice he gave Max, deep and rumbling. The voices given the female characters are equally good, without being sounding false. Looking forward to more.

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About the author

Bestselling and award-winning author Claire Delacroix has published over seventy novels and novellas. Her first book, Romance of the Rose was published in 1993. She is USA Today and nationally bestselling, and her medieval romance, The Beauty, was her first book to land on the New York Times List of Bestselling Books.

Claire Delacroix is a pseudonym used by Deborah Cooke for her historical and fantasy romances. Deborah also publishes contemporary and paranormal romances as Deborah Cooke and has written as Claire Cross.

Check out the website for more info and links to social media.

About the narrator

Tim Campbell is an award winning actor and singer who lives in Los Angeles, CA. He works primarily in audiobook narration and voice over and has narrated hundreds of titles spanning almost every genre. He has won or been nominated for almost every major award in the audiobook industry, including most recently a 2018 Audie, a 2019 Audie (nom), a 2019 Voice Arts Award, and several Independent Audiobook and Audiofile Magazine Earphones awards. Career highlights include Moby Dick (Brilliance Audio), Labarynth (Catherine Coulter), The Phantom of the Opera (Brilliance Audio), The Joe Dillard Legal Thrillers (Tim Campbell/Audible Studios), The Unhuman/Inspector Hobbes series (Findaway), The Mountain (HighBridge) and various short stories and novellas by Neil Gaiman, Sir Arthur Conan Doyle, Mary Shelley, Rudyard Kipling, HG Wells, Jules Verne, Ken Liu, Helen DeWitt, and many many others. He lived and trained in the UK and Germany, narrates as both an American and a Brit, and has studied performance diction in German, Italian, French, Spanish and Japanese, and Latin. He specializes in accents, dialects, and character work and holds three degrees in theater and music as well as graduating from the esteemed two year Great Books Colloquium of Pepperdine University.

In his other, musical life, Tim sings regularly with the LA Master Chorale, Los Angeles Opera, and in studio sessions for TV and Film. Highlights include principal ensemble in Candide at LA Opera, Courfeyrac in Les Miserables at Fresno Grand Opera, Jud in Oklahoma with Cabrillo Music Theater, and Anthony in Sweeney Todd with Pacific Opera Project and singing on the soundtrack for Star Wars IX: The Rise of Skywalker and films such as Creed 2, Venom, and many others.

Check out the website for more info and links to social media.

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Until next time, happy reading / listening!

Audiobooks to listen to: The Lighthouse

Hello and welcome!

I love the symbiotic relationship between authors and narrators. When you have a fave author who publishes a book in audio format and the voice ends up on your fave list, and when a narrator posts about an audiobook in the works or published and you find a new author.

One of those narrators is one who I posted about before and also chatted with me, Braden Wright. If you missed my chat with him in… 2015… WOW … 6 years ago … I would listen to anything narrated by him. His voice is like a hug, keeps you warm and safe.

I was fortunate to listen to an ARC of his latest audio which released today. The author was kind enough to send me the audiobook and let me tell you, it was a delight!

Happy release day, Mr. Parker!

Thank you, Mr. Wright, for introducing me to another world!

The Lighthouse

by Christopher Parker

Enchanting, mysterious, and deeply romantic, The Lighthouse follows a young woman’s breathtaking journey far from home to discover where she truly belongs.

Something strange is happening in Seabrook. The town’s lighthouse – dormant for over 30 years and famously haunted – has inexplicably started shining, and its mysterious glow is sparking feverish gossip throughout the spooked community.

Amy Tucker is only visiting for the night and has no plans to get caught up in the hysteria, but that changes when she meets Ryan, the loyal, hard-working son of a ranch owner who lives on the outskirts of town.

Their chance encounter turns into an unforgettable weekend, and against the backdrop of the lighthouse-obsessed town, the two of them forge a deep connection, opening their hearts, baring their souls, and revealing secrets long kept hidden.

But as they grow closer, and as the lighthouse glows ever brighter, a startling discovery about Ryan leaves Amy questioning everything she thought she knew. To uncover the truth about her new friend, Amy will need to enter Seabrook’s ominous tower, where waiting inside she will not only find the reason why fate has brought them together…but a shocking secret that will change the course of their lives forever.

Check out the map of Seabrook, as you read/listen along.

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My review:

story: 4 stars
narration: 5 stars

When I started listening to the book, I went in without any expectations, the author being new to me.

It starts on a sad note, my heart was breaking for Amy and her Dad. The story kept me in suspense for most of it, I had a feeling that not all was as it seemed and that something was missing. The twist comes almost at the end, and when all is revealed, I was left with a sad but light heart. I was like no no no, you can’t do that, it was not what I expected, but in the end I accepted it.

Good ending and I was glad that things were resolved and all involved got what they needed, be that closure or happy ending. The story elicited so many emotions, I cried, I smiled, I wondered, I sighed, and got scared too.

I am glad I took a chance on this debut novel, and congratulations to Mr. Parker for taking the leap. Looking forward to the next one.

Mr. Wright is one of my fave voices to listen to and on my ‘eargasm’ list. His voice for each character was on point and in tune with the emotions of each situation. He makes it seem so effortless, switching between the many characters in this book and at times seemed like another person is narrating. A great experience as usual.

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About the author

Christopher Parker was born in Takapuna, a seaside suburb in Auckland, New Zealand, where he currently lives with his daughter. Having loved writing stories growing up, it was a walk along Takapuna beach and a chance glimpse at a distant lighthouse that made him want to revisit his childhood passion and try his hand at producing a novel. Nearly ten years on from that fateful stroll, he is proud to finally share his story.

The Lighthouse is Christopher’s first novel.

Check out the website for more info and links to social media.

About the narrator

A lifelong performer, Braden Wright has appeared on Film & Television, on stage, on national tour, and has performed internationally as a narrator, Commercial VO artist, documentary narrator and audiobook narrator.

He has also produced a staged reading of his own two-act farce, and has worked as an instructor and also an audiobook coach. Amidst a career devoted to the Arts, he worked concurrently for 25 year in writing, producing and photo editing for Hollywood entertainment marketing.

Check out his website for more info and links to social media.

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To celebrate the release, Mr. Parker is giving away an ebook/audiobook to one of you, winner’s choice. All you have to do is comment on the post and Sexy Mr. Random will pick a name after 6pm EST, October 27, 2021.

Add it to your Goodreads TBR list.

Make sure to like Mr. Parker’s FB page, to keep up with the news.

Also like Mr. Wright’s FB page, as he will have more audiobooks coming.

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Until next time, happy reading / listening!

My Chat with Kaina

Hello and welcome!

Continuing from yesterday… if you missed it, go read it first 😉

I just had enough time to straighten up the apartment a little, set up the espresso machine, and change before Kaina rapped at the door. I have to admit, she was nothing like I expected. Sure, Kaina was every bit as drop dead beautiful as Ranish had told me, but she didn’t put on airs as I thought she might. After all, Kaina is a Queen.

Kaina breezed through the door wearing an ordinary pair of jeans and a tee shirt that read, “Bite me”. There was nothing ominous about that. I will only admit to a slight twinge of jealousy that she has a figure that men would drool over.

As Kaina stopped before me, she handed me another cake box, Tiramisu. I hear it is your favorite.

Alright so I must have whimpered a bit, the box even bears the autograph of the chef who made it.

Kaina smiled and commented. I will take that for a yes, which is good because I had it brought in by special jet.

I blink and admit. You are nothing like I thought you might be.

Kaina gives a snort. Those two oversized lizards got to you first, didn’t they? I can’t say I am surprised. They must have heard from the chef that I was having this made for you. I wondered why the plane was late. Well, I will fix that when I get home.

I can’t help but giggle at the wicked look of glee that crosses Kaina’s expression. You are not at all like you were in the book.

Waving that matter aside, Kaina admitted. That was business. I had been given a job to do. Men don’t understand that unless it pertains to them. The moment they think it is something a little messy they have this idea that we can’t handle it. Well, I have news for them. We are good for more than bearing their children and changing diapers.

I totally agree, and as I say so, I pull the cake out of the bag, only to notice that there is also a bottle of Chateau Lafite carefully wrapped and covered in the bag. I give Kaina a wide-eyed look and she smiles. I mooched it from Ranish’s private stock. That man won’t miss it. But it will drive his dragon crazy to try to figure out who took it from his hoard. I rather like the idea of tweaking the dragon’s tail every now and then. It makes life interesting.

You were nothing like this in the book, I comment.

Would you be if you had a score to settle? Kaina asked, as she took the bottle out of my hands, dragged out two crystal wine glasses out of the bag, set them on the table, and popped the cork. So, which cake are we going to start with?

I was afraid Kaina would ask that question. I am not sure. As a hostess I should offer you your favorite cake, not mine.

Kaina shrugged, That settles it then, we will cut large pieces of both and work our way through what we can, while we can, and enjoy the wine.

I am going to be too drunk to waddle, I mumble as I dig out a couple of plates and cutlery. No matter, I will work it off. Do you often indulge yourself like this?

You only live once, Kaina points out.

How do you stay so slim? I wonder.

I have a high metabolism, I am Drakaina. Kaina points out as I cut into the first cake. Remember, don’t be stingy or the men might come back looking to finish off the cakes. They have a bigger sweet tooth than Santa Claus.

For curiosity sake, why didn’t you go to your uncle when he offered to help in the beginning? I wonder.

Kaina holds the glass up to the light to check the color of the wine, and answers. Like I was going to trust him at the time? Not a chance. I might know better now, but I still like to handle my own problems. What I did, I did for my family, and although I know he is family now. I wasn’t so certain then. As for Strafe, lets just say it was a good thing we didn’t meet earlier or there would have been scales flying. He can be such a despot.

I laugh and raise my glass to exchange a toast with Kaina, Here is to despots that look like the two I just met.

Kaina giggles as she adds, You should see them in leather pants. Be still my beating heart. I will send pictures some day.

I look at Kaina and with anticipation ask, Promise?

Kaina winks and answers, You have my word on it. Enjoy the view.

We are going to get along just fine.

~~~~~~~~~~~

Hope you enjoyed this chat and the 2 previous ones.

Kaina is the main character in Vengeance Has A Daughter, book 1 of the Drakaina Series by M. A. Abraham, releasing today, April 20, 2021.

She was born to right a wrong and to serve justice. Torn from her deceased mother’s womb she knows what is expected of her even before she takes her first breath. Her quest for vengeance starts as a child and determined to see her task to the end, she acts as opportunities present themselves. She is Naranda, daughter of Mysteria and Trance, last of the Royal line of Dragon.

Strafe is the strongest of the Drakes, the bravest and the one everyone looks towards to rebuild their empire. To do this he brings Ranish to his side to advise him, for he was closest to the throne before the Royal line was decimated. With Ranish comes news of a hidden daughter of the House of Dragon, and Drakaina hiding from both man and beast to stay safe. In helping Ranish to find his niece, Strafe becomes guardian to hundreds of orphaned Drakaina that only reluctantly pay him homage. To them, Naranda is their beloved Queen, for she alone is of Royal blood.

In a bid to strengthen the power of the throne and, to do the right thing, Ranish hopes to bring these two powerful Dragon shifters together to create a lasting dynasty. Can he do it? Will they take one look at each other and see only an enemy? Or, will they find a love that has been missing in their lives since the days when Mysteria and Trance lit up the skies with theirs?

Read chapter 1 here where you can also find the BUY LINKS.

Check out the trailer created by one of my fave narrators, Brian Callanan, who narrated the Tantalus Series by M. A. Abraham.

I hope you will give it a chance, Ms. Abraham created a new world that is worth exploring and I for one look forward to the next book with great anticipation.

It will be also available in audiobook format soon, narrated by the newest addition to my ‘eargasm’ list, Jennifer Blom. Listen to the sample below.

https://animoto.com/play/034lkDyqX0PI6E1jO069hw?autostart=1

Make sure you sign up to Ms. Abraham’s blog and follow on Facebook and Twitter to keep up to date.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Until next time, happy reading / listening!

My Chat with Strafe

Continuing from yesterday… if you missed it, go read it before reading this one 😉

After Ranish left, I sat back down and the waiter who had served us returned with another espresso. I am going to be wired for the next week, but it tasted sooo good I don’t refuse it. As I lift it to my lips to taste, I am approached by another man, this one is considerably younger and when I check him out … clearing throat… my jaw almost drops. In an impossibly deep accented voice he talks as he gives me a drop dead smile.

I have come to keep you company for a short time now that Ranish has left. Before we decided to come to you, we talked about this. We feel that before Kaina comes to talk to you, we need to tell you our sides of the story. In this case there is three sides. Mine is entirely different. I am Strafe.

I answered. From what I read, you never got to meet Kaina until she was almost at the end of her quest.

Strafe smiled in remembrance as he spoke. My Namanda. Kaina was as slippery as an eel while we were hunting for her. Those were the days. She can still be that way, but now I know how to find her.

I hear a rumor that she has something that will drive you crazy, I snicker.

Strafe laughs, a sound that was wickedly suggestive, as he confided… I have heard the same thing. But I have news for her, I have the antidote.

I was surprised. You do?

Strafe grinned and nodded. I have to stay one up on my mate if I don’t want to go through some of what I did before. The one thing I learned while hunting for Kaina is that she is canny. I realize she needed to be to survive all those years ago, but it wasn’t necessary. All Kaina needed to do to get her task accomplished was to reach out to us. We would have come to her.

Your meeting with her for the first time was quite, I paused and added, Interesting!

This time Strafe frowned. That was more frustrating than interesting. I could barely walk straight for weeks after I first saw her. I couldn’t get her to the altar fast enough, and Ranish enjoyed the show every step of the way.

I laughed. Your dragon loved every minute too, don’t lie, I can tell.

Strafe snorted, The randy beast nearly killed me with his demands. It didn’t help that Kaina was insistent that she finish her task before we cement our alliance.

Sounded to me like all of your friends and brethren enjoyed the show. I reminded Strafe.

Strafe grinned and replied. They got their own comeuppance each in their own turn. Drakaina are not easy on their mates, no matter what it looked like.

If it is so difficult, why did you pursue Kaina? I asked.

Strafe’s expression turned fierce as he replied. Because she is mine.

I assume I will get to meet Kaina soon from what you were saying earlier. I pressed for information.

In a few hours. We thought we would defend ourselves and tell our sides first. Kaina will be all excuses, but the truth is, she wanted to fight this battle on her own. It wasn’t our fault she refused our help. But no matter what, it all came together at the right time. Strafe decided.

And her decision at the end? I asked.

Strafe laughed as he rose to leave. Her decision was pure Drakaina. As much as our women hate to admit it, they can be even less forgiving than we are. Never forget that when dealing with one of our women, not if you want to sleep at night.

As Strafe left, I watched him walk away, He looked as good walking away from me as he had coming towards me. There are times I really love my job.

As I rise to leave, the server steps up with a cake box and hands it to me. When I look at him in question, he answers. Ranish said you would need this when Kaina comes to see you. It is her favorite cake, and you seemed to like it too. There will be an espresso machine waiting by your door with the flavors you enjoyed here. You are also not to concern yourself with the bill, it has all been taken care of.

I look inside of the bag and there is a four layer chocolate cake like the one I slavered over earlier. I wonder how soon before Kaina gets to my place. I need to set that machine up quickly. As I grab the handles on the bag and head for the sidewalk, a limousine pulls up beside me and the driver gets out to open the door. Eniko, I was told to take you home. If you walk you will never get there on time.

Ah yes, there are certainly days when I really, really love my interviews.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~

I hope you enjoyed the chat.

Strafe is one of the main characters in Vengeance Has A Daughter, book 1 of the Drakaina Series by M. A. Abraham, releasing April 20, 2021.

She was born to right a wrong and to serve justice. Torn from her deceased mother’s womb she knows what is expected of her even before she takes her first breath. Her quest for vengeance starts as a child and determined to see her task to the end, she acts as opportunities present themselves. She is Naranda, daughter of Mysteria and Trance, last of the Royal line of Dragon.

Strafe is the strongest of the Drakes, the bravest and the one everyone looks towards to rebuild their empire. To do this he brings Ranish to his side to advise him, for he was closest to the throne before the Royal line was decimated. With Ranish comes news of a hidden daughter of the House of Dragon, and Drakaina hiding from both man and beast to stay safe. In helping Ranish to find his niece, Strafe becomes guardian to hundreds of orphaned Drakaina that only reluctantly pay him homage. To them, Naranda is their beloved Queen, for she alone is of Royal blood.

In a bid to strengthen the power of the throne and, to do the right thing, Ranish hopes to bring these two powerful Dragon shifters together to create a lasting dynasty. Can he do it? Will they take one look at each other and see only an enemy? Or, will they find a love that has been missing in their lives since the days when Mysteria and Trance lit up the skies with theirs?

Read chapter 1 here where you can also find the BUY LINKS to preorder.

I hope you will give it a chance, I look forward to the next book with great anticipation.

It will be also available in audiobook format soon, narrated by the very talented Jennifer Blom.

Make sure you enter the Rafflecopter contest, there will be 3 winners for a HC book, an audiobook, and an ebook. GOOD LUCK!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

To celebrate the release, Ms. Abraham is offering an ebook to one of you. Sexy Mr. Random will pick a winner from the comments after 3pm EST on release day, April 20, 2021.

Make sure you sign up to Ms. Abraham’s blog and follow on Facebook and Twitter to keep up to date.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Until next time, happy reading / listening!

My Chat with Ranish

Hello and welcome!

Do I have news for you! Read on what happened yesterday…

It is a beautiful spring day and I am out for a walk when I notice a man heading my way. My mind immediately takes note of his appearance. So shoot me, I have eyes to see, and they are definitely enjoying the view. This is male nature at its finest, considering the age of the subject. 😉 He is wearing a suit too, have I ever mentioned that I love men who are dressed well? Well, it is true. He is what everyone calls a silver fox, and he wears the look so well.

As we approach each other on the sidewalk, he smiles at me. I return his smile and he stops. With a slight nod, he addresses me… I like him even better as his voice is rich as hot chocolate and slightly accented.

Good morning, Eniko. I hope you are enjoying your day so far.

I stop. How do you know my name?

A twinkle in the man’s eyes accompanies his comment. I was told you would be the prettiest lady I will find outside enjoying the weather. I knew you the moment I saw you.

I chuckle. Are you flirting with me?

I couldn’t resist. My name is Ranish, you might have heard of me. I am Kaina’s uncle. I thought it might be a good idea to come and tell my story before the book is released so that I am not blamed for leaving her alone for all of those years.

I really don’t want to go inside, as it is such a beautiful day. I definitely have heard of you. In fact, I have read about you.

Ranish smiled as he offers me his arm in a gentlemanly fashion, so we can walk together. I know where there is an outdoor café not far from here. Allow me to get you some coffee, and perhaps something sweet to go with it.

I accept. You have a deal. I mean, what can it hurt, right? We are in public, in the open, so what is going to happen beyond us getting coffee.

I looked for Kaina for a long time before I found her, Ranish began. “It bothered me that I couldn’t find her, yet something kept nagging at me that I was missing someone important. In the beginning I thought it was my sister, Mysteria. You would have had to know my sister to understand why I loved her so much. Mysteria was more than beautiful, she was magical. Her laughter could brighten up the darkest day, and she loved life to the fullest. I totally understood why Trace fell so hard for her. Our people tend to do these things when we meet our mates, but Trace was so in love with his Mysteria he could hardly think straight. Their love knew no bounds, their sons were their pride, and to have a daughter about to be born to them was a dream come true. Unfortunately, they never got to live it. I can’t say I was too surprised to learn that my sister told her daughter to seek vengeance though. Mysteria, for all of her beauty, charm, and spirit could be like that. It was the Dragon in her. It is a part of our natures.

That is why Kaina acted like she did?

Ranish laughed, as we reached the café and found the perfect table waiting for us as if he had reserved it. Kaina is her mother’s daughter in every way possible. Beautiful, with a bubbly personality that reminds me of sparkling champagne. I couldn’t love her more, but she is stubborn. Our Kaina took her mother’s instructions literally and shut those who would have helped her out. That is now ancient history, for it happened a long time ago, but inside of Kaina, that person still lives. Woe betides anyone who would hurt one of hers. And we love her all the more for this, because we are Dragon, and this is the way we are.

Ranish motions towards a server and he appears moments later with the most decadent espresso coffee and the deepest, darkest chocolate cake I have ever seen. I am in heaven. How did he know? We enjoy our lunch, if you can call it that together in silence after this. When we are finished, Ranish rises, bows, takes my hand and presses a kiss to my knuckles. It is time for me to leave. Know that Kaina has finally found peace and happiness, and she is making Strafe’s life interesting. I love how she keeps him hunting. His Dragon has found a piece of heaven in his mate. We should all be so blessed.

I couldn’t believe Ranish was leaving. That is it? You are leaving me now?

Ranish chuckles and answers, You won’t be alone for long. Expect someone younger and infinitely more powerful. I bid you adieu, my lady. Until we meet again.

I hope we do, and I really do. I wave to him and feeling a bit sad.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

I hope you enjoyed the chat.

Ranish is one of the main characters in Vengeance Has A Daughter, book 1 of the Drakaina Series by M. A. Abraham, releasing April 20, 2021.

She was born to right a wrong and to serve justice. Torn from her deceased mother’s womb she knows what is expected of her even before she takes her first breath. Her quest for vengeance starts as a child and determined to see her task to the end, she acts as opportunities present themselves. She is Naranda, daughter of Mysteria and Trance, last of the Royal line of Dragon.

Strafe is the strongest of the Drakes, the bravest and the one everyone looks towards to rebuild their empire. To do this he brings Ranish to his side to advise him, for he was closest to the throne before the Royal line was decimated. With Ranish comes news of a hidden daughter of the House of Dragon, and Drakaina hiding from both man and beast to stay safe. In helping Ranish to find his niece, Strafe becomes guardian to hundreds of orphaned Drakaina that only reluctantly pay him homage. To them, Naranda is their beloved Queen, for she alone is of Royal blood.

In a bid to strengthen the power of the throne and, to do the right thing, Ranish hopes to bring these two powerful Dragon shifters together to create a lasting dynasty. Can he do it? Will they take one look at each other and see only an enemy? Or, will they find a love that has been missing in their lives since the days when Mysteria and Trance lit up the skies with theirs?

Read chapter 1 here where you can also find the BUY LINKS to preorder.

My review:

Vengeance Has a Daughter is nothing like anything the author has written before. An epic story that will have the reader immerse themselves and not come up for air until the end. A 5-star read.

Check out the trailer created by one of my fave narrators, Brian Callanan, who narrated the Tantalus Series by M. A. Abraham.

I hope you will give it a chance, Ms. Abraham created a new world that is worth exploring and I for one look forward to the next book with great anticipation.

It will be also available in audiobook format soon, narrated by the very talented Jennifer Blom. I fell in love with her voice the moment I heard the audition, she stood out from the many we received. I am glad she agreed to tell the story and will be doing the next in the series too when the time comes.

There is a release party on Facebook if interested, join here. There will be giveaways, author appearances and more.

Make sure you enter the Rafflecopter contest, there will be 3 winners for a HC book, an audiobook, and an ebook. GOOD LUCK!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

To celebrate the release, Ms. Abraham is offering an ebook to one of you. Sexy Mr. Random will pick a winner from the comments after 3pm EST on release day, April 20, 2021.

Make sure you sign up to Ms. Abraham’s blog and follow on Facebook and Twitter to keep up to date.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Until next time, happy reading / listening!