Audio Book Review: The Return of Supervillainy by C. T. Phipps

The Return of Supervillainy by C.T. Phipps
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

And we are back with Gary and the gang!

This time Gary is asked to join a group to find and save Mandy, thinking she's held hostage. Once things get going, there's more to it all. Helios maybe involved... or the problem.

I always look forward to the fun clips, the music references, the pop culture references, and so much more.

This is book 10 in the series, so there's many details given through the book of previous events, people, and more. Are they all important? Well, they maybe down a rabbit hole in a discussion but it really keeps everything interesting and makes me smile.

Some of the conversations take work to remember where we started. I feel like it's an ADHD conversation. lol. Goodness, the trips in conversations make me laugh and wonder, how did we get here? lol.

We get to see all those we have grown to love in this book, again. We even have those that have arrived in this world in a previous book. So much history between all these members.

These are always fun stories for me. The action, how Gary ends up in situations, and the references I grew up with. Fun!

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Audio Book Review: The Tree of Azathoth by C.T. Phipps

The Tree of Azathoth by C.T. Phipps
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Back into the world with John Henry Booth. The world is coming to an end. But there's another he can go to.

To The Dreaming City. Life is different here. Kinda has the feel of gangster time with tech. It's an interesting blend here and how people live or pass here. They are all from different parallel universes. But how it's all run is the interesting thing. You have to see how it's crafted and held together.

We've seen John as the one of action, especially when he needs to be. But he can be the overthinker and thoughtful on events and life too. He has philosophical things to say and thoughts on things.

John is on the case. As John digs deeper I see that this story is definitely set in a fantasy world. Some of the items are out there in the thought process. The thought process is shared and I'm impressed with how we get there. That's what you get with blending Cthulhu and Dreams. Hold on while you take this adventure and keep an open mind.

As I love with C.T. Phipps's books, we touch on a few books and themes. It's interesting how it all ties together with the Dream world concept.

I listened to the audiobook and Cary Hite does a nice job here.

There's also a bonus short story at the end of this one. It's a case that John takes. A sorority needs his help.

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Audio Book Review: Brighteyes by C.T. Phipps and Michael Suttkus

Brighteyes by Michael Suttkus
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This is the second book with Ashley and her adventures, picking up where we left off in the first book. It's also set in a larger world where other series cross with this one.

The story picks up loose threads from the first book. We see Gilroy, again. Ashley's siblings and their conflicts are a focus, leading to a whole problem of it's own with the Magestic 13, vampires, and even trafficking.

We get to dive back into Ashley's past. We get to see what she remembers of her family when younger. We even get to see how things went when she was lost to her vampire addiction. And, as things unfold, we learn more about her family in the end. Very interesting how things go!

There's action as we go into battles. Ashley's sword is still cool. I love this. I know Ashley always has things running through her mind and spirals out on strange thoughts, which is fun because she relates to comics and such. Always fun throw backs too. I did feel at times we got a lot of information told to Ashley at one time. Then into action we'd go.

Ashley starts to see who her friends are and maybe even rekindling of a relationship...if she wants?

I ended this audiobook with a "No. You didn't just do that to me." This goes to the authors. That was a surprise ending. Now I need to know all about how that came to be. lol.

I struggled some with the narrator and her voices in this audiobook. She has Ashley sounding whiny. She has a slower pacing to her speaking.

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Audio Book Review: Space Academy Miscreants by C.T. Phipps

Space Academy Miscreants by C. T. Phipps
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

How far will others go to get Vance to help affect politics on other planets with his new promotion to High Protector?

We are back in the saddle with Vance as we venture on. Others have moved on or moving on to great places. In doing so, we have the whole crew back together fighting with Vance. Darn, they are all such loyal friends, or...they want to see what crazy Vance will pull off again. lol

We learn A LOT in the first few paragraphs and through the first chapter! Case Gordon has a mess for Vance to take care of and... Vance learns of his daughter, who is very likely in trouble. This sparks Vance into action, which might also be a trap. But he's going.

Even though this series is set in the far future (fantasy future) in space, I love that Vance has an attraction for pop references and space and more for the 1980's, 1990's, and more. Vance loves the oldies! And so do I. There's many here I get and some I think I miss. lol. There's even a reference drop to another of C.T. Phipps's series, a universe where guys named Gary are single most important person. lol. And, Major Tom.

As always, action, fun, and quick funny lines are to be had with the book. A little drama mixed in too.

In the end, there was more to the story than I expected. I should know that by now, but still taken with the whole ending with the how and who.

BONUS:
We have a short story added to the end of this book! :D Thank you!

NOBODY'S FOOL
Vance's mission, to golf in a golf outing. And win.

When Vance and Shelly get here, Vance suspects something more is happening. Especially with the lifeform that appears to be sentient and yet it's in slavery positions. Vance's crazy notions bring us to a quick mystery to be solved. Always fun seeing the view Vance has of things...making something where others see nothing. And it's usually right.

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Audio Book Review: Brightblade by C.T. Phipps

Brightblade by Michael Suttkus
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Fun and light story with an underlining theme.

I enjoy reading C.T. Phipps's books for the fun references made to movies, songs, games, and so much more. I'll admit, I catch many of them but I'm sure there's a few that I've missed in listening to the story. I love it.

The characters are fun. Even when they are having one of the worst days of their lives. lol. There's quick clips back and forth as they go through the day and battles.

This book and series is set in the same world as Jane Doe, Straight out of Fangdom, and Red Room. They are all mentioned here so you get the feel of where Ashley and friends are located. I thought it was neat that Alex is present in this book (and hopefully series), which he was a boyfriend of Jane Doe's for a time too. It's neat to see how the books cross paths or are a history for this book.

I found there was a theme to the characters... What you are raised around doesn't mean it's right. You can be more and move past prejudices and more.

Ashley's day starts with trying to collect a bond's breaker and escalates to a trio of magical woman robbing a bank and her finding her long lost brother and into so much more. Lot's happening while we get to know the characters.

Where the story ends is at a mystery! Someone arrives, and I want to know what happens after this. Another book! :D Can't wait!

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Audio Book Review: Moon Cops on the Moon by C.T. Phipps

Moon Cops on the Moon! by C.T. Phipps
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

As usual with C.T. Phipps's books, I had fun. Always a pleasure to read/listen to his books. This one, I listened to the audio book.

First, the narrator. I have to say, I'm going to date myself. But have you ever listened to the song "Wet Dream" by Kip? The tone to the voice, I found the narrator reminded me of it. lol. The old time detective feel with hidden innuendoes in the words. So cool.

The story is a detective/mystery style as Neal learns the ropes of being on the moon, a not so pleasant place to be with crime. Neal has a smart partner, Lucy, who has her own past with her mom's fame. Great detectives in a high crime place.

Then there's Barksley. lol. A talking dog. I love it and his history as well.

Everyone's got a "history" that's a hoot and fun to learn and see how it impacts them and the story here.

The story has a little feel of influence from the movie Cherry 2000. Also, with the punk feel from 1920-ish detective feel. I love this blend! I've not read much with this blend and I want more!

I'm afraid to give too much on the plot as I don't want to give it away. I want you to learn with Neal as you go through the book and world for the first time.

There is fun and action and guns along with high speed chase. All great things to add to the cyber punk feel.

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Audio Book Review: The Fall of Supervillainy by C.T. Phipps

The Fall of Supervillainy by C.T. Phipps
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

It's always fun to head out on missions with Gary. I love Gary's jokes and references to his favorite 80's shows, comics, music, and more. I'm almost afraid to admit....I get them. lol

This book has references to all the previous stories, along with Cindy's Seven too (which leads to a few things being the way they are for Gary now). But the previous books are a big lead up to this. Gary has rebooted the world and...there are consequences...complications even...that come with that.

Gary has to take time in this book and practice his spells and view himself as a god. This gives Gary a chance to think about what he wants and why he does what he does. Though, he'll never admit he does good not villainy. lol. There were a list of things that need to be done. It feels like there were several side tasks and stories that happened as we went along. Everywhere had another step to it. And all of it comes together to close this book.

We learn about the consequences and how to fix them. We see super heroes and villains fight Nazis. (lol. Loved hearing Death's view on Hitler. lol) We get a chance to see the family together again.

I'll admit, I was thinking it then Gary said it... Cindy is a little on the dark side. She's out further on the villain side of things. And she always blames Gary for EVERYTHING. I'm starting to not like Cindy as much as I used to. I'm all for strong woman but she seems to be laying blame everywhere on everyone. Kind of whiny feeling. But, I'm starting to think it's her way of dealing with feeling as though she's 2nd or 3rd on the list and her feelings for Gary.

Jeffrey Kafer always does an amazing job voicing the characters in this world. He has the deadpan sound of Gary dropping a great comment or reference that makes me laugh. Some of those remarks...I don't know how you do it Jeffrey. Great job as always.

I'm glad to hear there will be more books in this world/series. I'm looking forward to them!

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Audio Book Review: Cindy's Seven by C.T. Phipps

Cindy's Seven by C.T. Phipps
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

I listened to the audio book, and Heather voicing Cindy, I thought her accent was natural for her. But, I needed to adjust to her pace. I even slowed the audio at times because I couldn't keep up with her quick speak. I know Cindy has many great references but the words all ran together and I struggled to catch all the quick remarks. These books are always known for the fun fantasy, science fiction, and 80's references.

All are close. Like one big family. They love each other and know there are flaws in each, but they work together to cover for where one is less. Like Cindy knows she's not a good mom, so there's Mandy and Amanda and Gary's sister and such a close network here that help raise the girls and help each other. I love the comfort here.

Cindy is tired of being Gary's hench woman and wants to be seen as more. So she comes up with her own plan...steal the dragon's treasure. However, this mission becomes way more than such a simple task. There's more going on with the dragon! And with a few of the family members. They all face something personal as the story goes.

Mandy comments that Cindy is mentally 14. lol! I have to agree with this! She's a chatter box and half of what's said doesn't make sense in logic. lol.

These are fun adventures with Cindy at the lead with her friends and family. Always fun in this world.


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Audio Book Review: Eldritch Ops by C.T. Phipps

Eldritch Ops by C.T. Phipps
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I finished this book to go searching to make sure the next one is out.

It is! I'll be picking it up as I need to follow through with where this book ended. It's not really a cliffhanger ending, but an ending to this story and a reason for the beginning of another mission.

I'm enjoy the characters in these books. Derek and his twin sister Penny are a great team. And those he finds himself trusting are great people. The mix in origins is great...a succubus, a werewolf, and magicians. Though, there is one person Derek talks to to get to where they need to go with back up coming... I don't trust that person very much. Which kind of brings us to the end and what I'm looking forward to in the next book. ;)

Who's behind the attacks? The solo hits on groups. The attacks on Derek.... We find this out and learn more deep, dark secrets of The House. The House is the organization that houses the Red Room and many other departments. I know Derek has been raised to be speculative of things, but as an agent you're to trust The House when you receive orders. We see how over time Derek has started to see things aren't as they were blindly believed for so long. Derek has his own speculative thoughts on the House and those on the Committee.

Derek isn't one to pull his punches. He dives head first into missions, more so when he has personal investment in them. Derek is even starting to be more open to the supernatural people in the world.

I enjoy the twisted path we follow to learn the truth and events that happen to get there. Conspiracy and action are great combinations in a story.

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Audio Book Review: A Nightmare on Elk Street by C.T. Phipps

A Nightmare on Elk Street by C.T. Phipps
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Oh all the horror movie references! And from a time when I watched horror (I don't watch horror anymore, or the newer ones). This was fun with them and all the cliches. Jane's not your "damsel in distress" type. She's a horror fan.

This book talks about Jane's time with Super Villainy and Straight Outta Fangton series's. It's nice to see them all come together with Jane here. Did I laugh as much...not really, But I love all the references to old time movies. So fun!

Jane has somethings to work through with her family. She also is working on her relationships. As the story goes, she works through these and learns about her relationships more as she solves the mystery of who's behind the horror characters trying to murder people...and why.

This story comes to what feels as an end for the series. Things feel to have tied together even though life goes on. It feels complete to this series.

There's a bonus Short Story added to this book. :D Always fun! It's a fun little adventure with Jane and her best friend Emma. A vampire looking for a very special sword buried in the area. It's a little history with Emma's family and a quick fun adventure.

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Audiobook Review: Assassin by C.T. Phipps

Assassin by C.T. Phipps
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

It's been a while since the last book for me. So I'm greatly thankful for the refresher in the beginning (prologue).

Case is aware he's an old man. lol. 20 years. Hearing him is like listening to a dad talk. lol. But! With being a cyborg of sorts, technology does age quickly, so 20 could be the new...40 or 50? lol.

I think this book would have been better read over listened to for me. I struggled a little with the audio version as I couldn't keep up with the plans and understanding them all. I felt like there was a lot of talking between characters and memories. A lot of going over plans but felt like not much in action. There were flashbacks that happened too.

We do learn about Case and his relationships with others and business. It's always an adventure with Case.

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Audio Book Review: Daughter of the Cyber Dragons by C.T. Phipps & Michael Suttkus

Daughter of the Cyber Dragons by C.T. Phipps
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This book checks off all the boxes of what I want in a story. Damaged main character who grows and learns as we go. Great secondary characters. And an adventurous journey with danger, humor, and details to keep us going. This is a cyber setting for the characters and their bodies. I'm glad it's all easy to understand as it's the setting and already in play.

In the beginning, I felt there were holes and Kei was... a tough character to follow. This is THE PLAN. This is all done as part of what Kei knows, shares, and doesn't want to remember. Stick with the story and it ALL unfolds and comes together as Kei grows.

And oh the things we learn. Love that.

Case is here! I love seeing Kei with Case. She seems to relax a bit when talking with him. Case is a character from another series, so seeing him here in this story, in the position he's in, it's great. He's working to make a difference.

We also get a short bonus story at the end with Agent G! Fun!

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Audio Book Review: The Future of Supervillainy

The Future of Supervillainy

By:  C.T. Phipps

Publish Date:  June 25, 2019, Audiobook Release August 30, 2019

Format:  Audiobook - 7 hrs 3 mins
Narrated By:  Jeffrey Kafer

Genre:  Fantasy

Series:  6th in The Supervillainy Saga series; 1st Book ~ The Rule of Supervillainy, 2nd Book ~ The Games of Supervillainy, 3rd Book ~ The Secrets of Supervillainy, 4th Book ~ The Science of Supervillainy, 5th Book ~ The Tournament of Supervillainy

Impression:  It's all for the protection of the family

Synopsis:
Gary Karkofsky, a.k.a Merciless: The Supervillainy without Mercy, has decided to retire from supervillainy. He's lost too many friends and killed too many people (though they all had it coming). Unfortunately, this proves to be easier said than done when the Department of Supernatural Services (DOSS) shows up to arrest him for all of his crimes. Quickly landing himself in more trouble, he decides to get out of town and help a struggling underground kingdom in the center of the Earth. What he finds is an army of Nazis, gods, lost temples, and dinosaurs. He also is forced to fight once more against the world's first supervillain: Tom Terror, archenemy of heroes everywhere.

He just can't catch a break, can he?

First Sentence:
"So, yeah, it's been a year since I quit being a supervillain," I said, standing there with my hands in the pockets of my large leather coat.

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Audible

My Thoughts and Summary:

*I was given this free review copy of this audiobook at my request and have voluntarily left this review.

I had a few rough weeks and wanted an audio book I could enjoy and relax with. This fit the mold. I always enjoy Gary's antics and adventures. This book follows through with what I was looking for.

Gary gave up being a super villain a year ago. Until the special United States agency sets out to arrest him, and threatens his children. Wanting to get away from the potential attack coming, and getting a chance to kill Nazi's, Gary agrees to help an underground kingdom in the center of the Earth.

John from C.T.'s Apocalyptic books joins our favorites on this mission. We get a quick view of his life and world here. These crumbs could make you curious to pick up those books.

When I think there couldn't be more '80's and '90's movies to pull from, C.T. surprises me with ones I've forgotten about. I love listening to the story and thinking of what movie, comic, book, and more that influences the events and quick comebacks. There is so much great material to be inspired by! I love how C.T. does that.

Gary loves his family. This is the one thing he fights for, or doesn't fight. All to keep them safe. He loves his women deeply, all the women close to him. He has to face that his children and niece could be in danger because of what he and the moms do. Will that stop Gary from doing what needs done though?

Gary's life feels to be evolving and growing, as life should. By now we know Gary's not a true villain in his intent but he doesn't act as a straight laced hero either. Gary calls himself an antihero, which fits perfectly. Gary does seem to have a great capability of screwing things up too, which brings humor and highlights additional characters in the book. And yet, in some strange way, it works out for Gary. lol. I enjoy these moments, when things go off the rails for Gary because it feels creative with how we get to where we still need to be. There are moments where it feels as though it's the easy route, but it's all good because Gary is his own character.

You know when Gary is not thrilled with something or disappointed as he wont waste a great Star Wars quote, or pop culture quote, on that person or situation. That weighs more in meaning than giving a great quote to lighten the moment.

As always, I had fun listening to Gary and his family and friends take this adventure and fight on. It seems Gary's life might take another turn in the future with what he does in life. Or maybe not.



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Audio Book Review: The Tournament of Supervillainy

The Tournament of Supervillainy

By:  C.T. Phipps

Publish Date:  December 15, 2018, Audiobook Release January 4, 2019

Format:  Audiobook - 7 hrs 20 mins
Narrated By:  Jeffrey Kafter

Genre:  Fantasy

Series:  5th book in The Supervillainy Saga series; Book 1 ~ The Rules of Supervillainy, Book 2 ~ The Games of Supervillainy, Book 3 ~ The Secrets of Supervillainy, Book 4 ~ The Science of Supervillainy

Impression:  We've come this far, as a family.

Synopsis:
Being a supervillain was all Gary ever wanted to be but the constant beatings, moral ambiguity, and the fact he now has a young daughter to look after have caused him to reconsider his career path. As he debates making a jump to the "other side", Gary finds himself recruited by Death to serve as her champion in a multiversal tournament for the ultimate prize: anything you could desire!

Gary and a oddball collection of champions from a variety of universes must prevent the prize from falling into the hands of the genocidal space wizard Entropicus! He also must discover just where his heart really lies when his two closest loves reveal shocking secrets.

Guest starring Jane Doe from I Was a Teenage Weredeer, Agent G from Agent G: Infiltrator, and Cassius Mass from Lucifer's Star.

First Sentence:
So, I was getting my ass kicked.

Purchase At:
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Audible

My Thoughts and Summary:

*I was given this free review copy of this audiobook at my request and have voluntarily left this review.

Jeffrey has to have fun while narrating these stories. He gets to let loose and put the manic into the crazy villains as he vocalizes them. I enjoy Jeffrey giving these characters a voice. He does it with such love as he seems to have absorbed the characters personalities. When he delivers some of these lines that are crazy and would make anyone smirk or laugh, he does it with the full feel of the character delivering it. Jeffrey is amazing at giving nothing away in his voice. Another flawless performance by Jeffrey.

Okay. I have a soft spot for 80's and 90's references. Oh heck, even current geek references. I'm one of those people that forgots them until I hear them in these books, and boy do they bring back the fun memories. It was an awesome time for movies, games, cartoons, comics, and so much more! And C.T. takes advantage of all that is available to reference. I never counted how many references to fight games (and movies) there were, but C.T. uses them here.

Oh. When Gary met Jane Doe and Agent G... I smiled the whole time. lol. I love these personalities and their reactions to each other. Jane Doe, Agent G, and Star Count are characters from C.T.'s other series. Yep, that's right! This book has a character crossover. The cool thing, you DO NOT have to read the other books to read this one. It's cool that you get to meet characters from his other books, so maybe you'll want to check out their worlds after you are done here.

Even though I have fun and enjoy the quick quips, jokes, and references, there's a serious side to Gary too. Gary has a lot going on with his family and friends. Gary takes it all in and goes with it as best he can, but his cares for them runs deep in his being. I enjoy seeing him react to the family he's made around him.

Gary has a great group around him - Cindy, Diabloman, Gabrielle, Guinevere, Mandy, and more. They all add to the story. It's great how C.T. juggles them all being together through the book. That's hard to have a large cast of characters in one place, but C.T. makes it seem easy. They all add to what Gary has to do and the chaos of his mind and life. lol. Some moments I wonder how they all keep it straight when they get side railed in a conversation, but they do! And they come back to the topic at hand. Life gets sidetracked but it all works out for them having an "off the beaten path" feel to their thinking processes.

In closing I want to response to C.T.'s forward, I know there are people saying the formula is getting old. Here's the thing, I enjoy these stories because of the geek references to books, movies, games, and so much more. Gary and his friends are a crew I enjoy with their banter and jokes and unconventional living. This is what I expect coming into the book, smile while I'm listening because of, and leave with a smile from.

The ending leaves me with hope for a next book, and more fun. This made me smile, for the request made and that I'll get more time with Gary and his family.



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Audio Book Review: Agent G: Saboteur

Agent G: Saboteur

By:  C.T. Phipps

Publish Date:  January 5, 2018, Audiobook Release October 23, 2018

Format:  Audiobook - 6 hrs 30 mins
Narrated By:  Jeffrey Kafer

Genre:  Fantasy

Series:  2nd book in Agent G series; Book 1 ~ Infiltrator

Impression:  Step into the chaotic world of spy, Agent G.

Synopsis:
Agent G has left the service of the International Refugee Society, the world's biggest provider of murder for hire, in order to work for the US government. Unfortunately, they are sending him after his former employers, and they know him as well as he knows them.

The clock is ticking, though, until the Society's remaining leadership starts eliminating their opponents and attempts to seize control of the presidency. A traitor is also providing them with all the information they need to survive until their puppet is in power.

Will G and his allies survive the purge?

Sometimes it doesn't pay to be a cyborg spy.

First Sentence:
I'm flying.

Purchase At:
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Audible

My Thoughts and Summary:

*I was given this free review copy of this audiobook at my request and have voluntarily left this review.

Jeffrey returns to voice Agent G and his chaos. Jeffrey is awesome at carrying through with the voice that Agent G holds, calm and collected. Jeffrey brings the world of spies to life through different tones that give us a different feel for the characters present. Always a great pleasure to listen to Jeffrey do his thing.

We dive right into action with Agent G. That is how he lives his life, after all. There is no lack of fighting, guns, or running in this book.

Agent G and Marissa's banter makes me smile. Even when they have a serious moment there's something to compare or bring up, keeping the moment light. But through the fun you can feel there is more to be said and going on.

Agent G gets a little deep in his feelings in this book. He's only known relationships that are strained or stressed, not the "normal" life he thinks they could be with his profession. The Society, in how they lived and worked, was a huge motivator behind the relationships he's had. Agent G seems to have no filter when he speaks. He tells it like it is, or so it feels. He tells little lies or omits items, which can be needed in the spy business. I found in any conversation Agent G is having, I'm wondering who's lying. I never know what's the truth and what is being told to appease the other until they get what they want. This makes me suspicious of people and of what's being said. I try to figure it out as the story goes on. That's part of what keeps me drawn to the story, looking to see what's truth and what was false, and how it all ties into the plot.

Friendships and relationships (no matter how strange they seem) are something important to people, even cyborgs. And Agent G starts to see this with those he knows. Even though Agent G is a cyborg with "memories," he's become his own person in thinking. He gives the feel of wanting to have friendships and more with people.

C.T. is great with dialog. The characters interact greatly, telling us all that's happening with what is said and even with what's not said. This is something that's big in his books. Though, sometimes it feels like the conversation can be too long for me as I'm ready to move on to the action or the next step.

Of course we get the debates and references to books and movies, that make me smile as I know what they are. lol. There are actions and twists that remind me of spy movies and more too. This brings the fun into the story.

I always look forward to C.T.'s books and adventures. Agent G is one of my favorite spies around with many elements I enjoy in stories.



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Audio Book Review: Straight Outta Fangton

Straight Outta Fangton

By:  C.T. Phipps

Publish Date:  August 18, 2016, Audiobook Release August 28, 2018

Format:  Audiobook - 7 hrs 27 mins
Narrated By:  Cary Hite

Genre:  Urban Fantasy

Series:  1st in Straight Outta Fangton series

Impression:  A flip to vampire beliefs in a world fighting for supernatural rights.

Synopsis:
Peter Stone is a poor black vampire who is wondering where his nightclub, mansion, and sports car is. Instead, he is working a minimum wage job during the night shift as being a vampire isn’t all that impressive in a world where they’ve come out to mortals.

Exiled from the rich and powerful undead in New Detroit, he is forced to go back when someone dumps a newly-transformed vampire in the bathroom of his gas station’s store. This gets him fangs-deep in a plot of vampire hunters, supernatural revolutionaries, and a millennium-old French knight determined to wipe out the supernatural.

Sometimes, it just doesn’t pay to get out of the coffin.

First Sentence:
"Who ever heard of a vampire working at a goddamn 7-Eleven?" I muttered, standing there fiddling with the Slurpee machine.

Purchase At:
Amazon  /  Barnes & Nobles 

Audible

My Thoughts and Summary:

*I was given this free review copy audiobook at my request and have voluntarily left this review.

Did you read the first sentence? Go ahead and read it, I have it just above. I'll wait a moment.....
Done? Cool. That's a corking opening that just made me smile from the beginning. Gives you an idea of the ride you are in for, doesn't it. lol. Yep.

C.T. always has a little humor mixed in to his stories. Something very cool about C.T.'s writing that I've picked up. When you look past the jokes and comedy you see there is something deeper to the story. There's a whole huge world being built, full of supernaturals and rules. The characters are light and fun, but there is more to their being and story that meets the immediate eye. This is what I enjoy in C.T.'s writings, learning what that deeper meaning is and understanding it in relationship to the characters.

This is a first for me listening to Cary Hite. I enjoyed his narration of the book. His voice selection for Peter feels to fit him. The weight in his voice feels to hit the seriousness in Peter yet there is a lightness in the moments Peter is joking. Cary feels to become Peter in the story. There's also different tones and personalities for the other characters present. I do enjoy hearing Thoth. lol. He's cool, an opposite to Peter.

There's a lot of details and history added throughout the book. We learn the history of vampires and of Peter, Melissa, and a few others as we go through the book.

There are small plays on cliches and old beliefs with vampires here. C.T. flips those cliches on their head here and rolls with them. Lol. The Count of Sesame Street. The connection to him in the story... oh it made me laugh yet felt like mind opening.

There are parts that fit the humor that C.T. is known for. But, for me, there wasn't as much in this story as in others. The flipping of what people see as being vampires is more the fun here. This story is a little more straight story with Peter and the trouble brewing in New Detroit. Part of the reason I felt this was with the flashbacks.

Peter has a lot of flashbacks, remembering important moments in his past that relates to his history and vampires around him. All explains what we come across now along with why the system for vampires is the way it is. We even get to see history of a few characters in these flashbacks along with visions from sharing blood.

Vampires do not sparkle. They are dark. Though we see the high life that we expect them to live, there are downfalls for others. Not all vampires live rolling in money, and they have to adjust. We see vampires live all wakes of life as people do.

This book has created the world and characters with some fun twists to the world. I'm set to return for future books with the characters and have fun.



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Audio Book Review: Lucifer's Nebula

Lucifer's Nebula

By:  C.T. Phipps & Michael Suttkus

Publish Date:  May 22, 2018, Audiobook Release August 3, 2018

Format:  Audiobook - 10 hrs 12 mins
Narrated By:  Eric Burns

Genre:  Science Fiction

Series:  2nd in Lucifer's Star series; 1st Book ~ Lucifer's Star

Impression:  Fun twisted conspiracies, relationships, and realizations

Synopsis:
From the bestselling author of The Rules of Supervillainy: Captain Cassius Mass can only run so far from his problems and the galaxy isn't big enough to hide from those pursuing him. Cassius soon finds himself blackmailed into a mission that will clear him of all charges as well as protect him from future persecution: bring an end to the civil war currently racking the galaxy. Accompanied by a new set of untrustworthy allies, the crew of the Melampus, and the A.I duplicate of his dead wife—Cassius needs to figure out how to not only deal with his target but also his employers.

Because the entire universe is at stake.

First Sentence:
"I hate pirates," I said, more to myself than the other members of the starfighter squadron that was the Melampus's primary defense.

Purchase At:
Amazon  /  Barnes & Nobles 

Audible

My Thoughts and Summary:

*I was given this free review copy audiobook at my request and have voluntarily left this review.

Eric returns to voice Cassius. He has a husky voice that feels to fit Cassius. He gets to play with accents too. A few characters have accents based on where they are from in the universe. We get slightly different tones to differentiate female and male characters, along with personality to go with emotions and who the people are. I'm impressed with how Eric voices Cassius and Cassius the Elder. They sound different in personality and voice. Totally cool.

The first chapter starts us off with a space fight in fighters, setting the feel of the book for Cassius and crew on the Melampus. We meet those under him on the ship and the relationships he has with each. We get a feel for those relationships as they characters interact as well.

All of the interact shows how the crew has fallen into a "normal" for them. Love and hate all in one place and it works together. This highlights the crew as a whole and makes the journey more fun.

Cassius has turned into a good guy. Well, he does take jobs that aren't on the up-and-up, but he tries to take care of his people and crew. That makes him a good guy, right? He'll make the deals that he wouldn't normally make to keep his crew safe, even if it could be danger for later.

I found I was surprised that we spend a good half of the book on the ship with Cassius and his crew. It didn't feel like that much of the book! There is a whole lot of crazy in their lives and how they are all tied together! There were whole twisted conspiracies, love, and realizations along with fights that happen. A whole space opera that kept me interested. Their lives are affected by what they do or don't do, creating choices that will help or hurt one or all of them and how they will protect each other. Or not as there is that option too.

Wow. There is a lot of crossing and twisting to the plans. I kept wondering which story will pan out to be the truth, and had to keep going to find out! People say one thing, have another thing in mind. Then someone else is doing something different, either for or against the plans of another. People saying one thing to get someone to react a way to get something else to happen. What's the truth? What's the true outcome desire? There could be many, depending on who you talk to. But, there is one ultimate goal by one selfish driven individual. Just sniff out what he truly wants. Wow. This is one adventure to follow closely.

It's always a pleasure to spend time with Cassius and his crew. They have great relationships that make you smile as they don't hold back when talking. It's all out in the space around them. lol. Then there's the trouble they get into. Fun action story.



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Audio Book Review: An American Weredeer in Michigan

An American Weredeer in Michigan

By:  C.T. Phipps & Michael Suttkus

Publish Date:  October 24, 2017, Audiobook Release April 3, 2018

Format:  Audiobook - 9 hrs 15 mins
Narrated By:  Arielle DeLisle

Genre:  Urban Fantasy

Series:  2nd in The Bright Falls Mysteries series; 1st Book ~ I Was a Teenage Weredeer

Impression:  Fun urban fantasy mystery.

Synopsis:
Life is not easy for the world's first weredeer detective. A simple hike turns into a media circus when Jane Doe, her best friend Emma, and a pair of monster hunters find a mass grave. Determined to find the parties responsible, Jane soon discovers a sinister cult leader has decided to make Bright Falls, Michigan the home of his corrupt religion.

As if this wasn't complicating her life enough, Jane also has to decide whether or not she wants to begin a relationship with FBI Special Agent Alex Timmons or local crime lord Lucien Lyons. Both men are determined to get to the bottom of the crime she's investigating but may be distracted by their own agendas--as well as their love for Jane.

First Sentence:
I swatted a mosquito from my face and wished I hadn't bothered to come out on this hiking trip with Emma.

Purchase At:
Amazon  /  Barnes & Noble  

Audible

My Thoughts and Summary:

*I was given this free review copy audiobook at my request and have voluntarily left this review.

Arielle returns to voice Jane in this second book. She does have a younger sound to fit Jane. Arielle voices Jane's dry humor and jokes with what sounds like a straight face and with intensity behind it as Jane would. There is a touch of sarcasm and humor in it, and Arielle vocalizes this well. She also brings personalities out in the voices of other characters. She does voice them with slight differences in tone, but the feel of the character is in the annunciations and attitude.

We got introduced to characters in a timely manner and reminded of what happened in the first book to place the characters in their lives now. And we come across the new mystery that makes us curious. This beginning flowed smoothly for me, introducing us back to the world.

I love the small references to movies, shows, and all fun items. There's references to Harry Potter, Back to the Future, and more. I had to laugh when Wynonna Earp was mentioned in the book. LOL! It's exactly what I related the Merlin Gun to when we first came across it in the first book! The characters are fantasy fans and talk about Star Wars and more throughout the book, it really makes for fun moments. It's something I enjoy keeping an ear (or eye) out for in the story.

We get a few mysteries to solve. The pit of baby skeletons, Dr. Jones who brings a world of trouble with his desires, and Robyn's search. But we also have personal interests and conflicts. Jane's got two potential relationships brewing, which does get resolved. We also meet new characters - Robyn, Larry, and Yolanda. Robyn is an interesting addition and we spend more time with her than the others.

What surprises me, how the authors manage to connect all these problems into one conversation. It's awesome. I wouldn't have pictured the conversation going as it did, but it fits the characters and the story. It all works together!

All the personal connections makes things a little edgy when the characters interact. It's a small town, and you feel it. It all starts to wash out in the end of the book, truths are shared and emotions are a little better. It feels things are moving in the direction they should for the characters personally.

Of course we see the story through Jane's eyes and thoughts. But we get to spend time, through Jane, with Emma, Lucien, and Alex along with all we meet in the first book. I am glad Jane got a big thing cleared up with Alex and Lucien. They are both amazing men, in different ways. Though, Lucien does have a bad streak in him. Jane feels to be more mature in this book. She's faced many things in the first book and learned a lot. She's still learning and becoming more with her shaman ability.

We also see the town of Bright Falls is growing and changing. But I'm thinking the outside world is changing some too, pushing Bright Falls to expand and grow. It's something Jane struggles with in a small way. Even the need to sell her family diner... That's something Jane is not ready for, but maybe needs to do...

I enjoy the fun and humor written through Jane and the story. The story is a fun, relaxing read for me and I look forward to more in the future.



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Audio Book Review: I Was a Teenage Weredeer

I Was a Teenage Weredeer

By:  C.T. Phipps & Michael Suttkus

Publish Date:  September 26, 2017, Audiobook Release February 13, 2018

Format:  Audiobook - 9 hrs 54 mins
Narrated By:  Arielle DeLisle

Genre:  Urban Fantasy

Series:  1st in Bright Falls Mysteries series

Impression:  A fun, relaxing mystery in a shifter town.

Synopsis:
Jane Doe is a weredeer, the least-threatening shapechanger species in the world. Blessed with the ability to turn furry at will and psychically read objects, Jane has done her best to live a normal life working as a waitress at the Deerlightful Diner. She has big dreams of escaping life in the supernatural-filled town of Bright Falls, Michigan, and her eighteenth birthday promises the beginning of her teenage dreams coming true.

Unfortunately, her birthday is ruined by the sudden murder of her best friend's sister in an apparent occult killing. Oh, and her brother is the primary suspect. Allying with an eccentric FBI agent, the local crime lord, and a snarky werecrow, Jane has her work cut out for her in turning her big day around.

Thankfully, she's game.

Set in the same world as Straight Outta Fangton.

First Sentence:
I was a teenage weredeer.

Purchase At:
Amazon  /  Barnes & Noble 

Audible

My Thoughts and Summary:

*I was given this free review copy audiobook at my request and have voluntarily left this review.

Arielle has a young voice that fits Jane Doe. She also pulls off Jane's sarcastic humor of stating the obvious in a dry tone. Totally works and sounds like a young adult. Arielle also voices each character in different tones when they speak. The audio is very clear and clean listening. Arielle's pronunciation of words is clear. No distractions from the story.

Jane has a dry sarcastic humor about her, stating the obvious in a dry tone. And it totally works. Especially in audio format. Oh the deer puns. lol.

As in true C.T. Phipps fashion, we have references to t.v. shows and more throughout the book. It's not done in the Supervillainy humor but in an undertone to give a feel of what Jane is seeing as happening or a description. This is always something I find fun, as I get to see if I can pick them out and know the references.

Off the bat we get a lot of information. Wow. The first chapter is packed full of names and world info. It almost feels like an info dump. I don't think I'm going to remember all the names as they hit me so fast here. Once you read through this, and you are great through the remainder of the book.

Being a shifter is dangerous now. The world knows of vampires and shifters, but fears them all. It's set in the same world as Straight Outta Fangton, but you don't have to read it to understand the world here. (I haven't, yet.) This story is in Bright Falls, Michigan where Straight Outta Fangton is in New Detroit. But what happened with the vampires there affects the shifters here, and we hear about some of that, which then also makes me curious for the vampire book. People, states, and government have not taken well to the reveal of vampires and shifters. It's dangerous to go other places because of the laws.

A mystery! This is a shifter town where a murder has happened. Actually, we find out this is the third murder. Jane has the ability to read items with a touch, so she becomes important in helping with the case. Her mom and her best friend (who's sister was murdered) want her to help with the case, and clear her brothers name. Jane's visions help point her in directions, but don't give her the complete answer. So she works the case, looking for answers with the clues she finds.

I look forward to Jane "reading" items when she wants. She gets enough to send her in a direction, but learns there is more to the vision than she saw. Cool. I'm glad things aren't always black and white. Jane also has a new friend that's not really a friend or alive. It's the gun. It's actually cool, and reminds me a bit of the gun from Wynonna Earp. Jane also seems to find herself with new friends she never expected; Lucian and Alex. Lucian is the towns bad guy and drug dealer, but there maybe more to him. And Alex is new to town. We have Jane's long time friend Emma, who's part of the powerful family in town. It's a neat little group of people here. I even like Maria who finds herself as an ally.

The town is neat with all the shifters. Many shifters have abilities that come in handy. They have a social structure based on their were-animal as well.

Something that pops up through the book is prejudice. Jane sees it with the social structure of the weres and she even sees herself referencing it as that's what has been drilled into her from the old ways. Jane is working past the prejudices though.

I found this mystery story to be relaxing with Jane's personality and small jokes and puns. I look forward to Jane continuing to learn magic and spending time with her friends. Also, there are a few visions she had that may, or may not, come to pass. I'm curious if they do.



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Audio Book Review: Lucifer's Star

Lucifer's Star

By:  C.T. Phipps & Michael Suttkus

Publish Date:  April 27, 2017, Audiobook Release May 17, 2017

Format:  Audiobook - 10 hrs 20 mins
Narrated By:  Eric Burns

Genre:  Space Opera

Series:  1st in Lucifer's Star series

Impression:  Space opera, clones, AI's, and battles all in one place!

Synopsis:
From the bestselling author of The Rules of Supervillainy:

Cassius Mass was the greatest star pilot of the Crius Archduchy. He fought fiercely for his cause, only to watch his nation fall to the Interstellar Commonwealth. It was only after that he realized the side he'd been fighting for was the wrong one. Now a semi-functional navigator on an interstellar freight hauler, he tries to hide who he was and escape his past. Unfortunately, some things refuse to stay buried and he ends up conscripted by the very people who destroyed his homeland.

LUCIFER'S STAR is the first novel of the Lucifer's Star series, a dark science fiction space opera set in a world of aliens, war, politics, and slavery.

First Sentence:
The sight of the burning starships around me was like a galaxy of new stars lighting up the emptiness of space.

Purchase At:
Amazon 

Audible

My Thoughts and Summary:

*I was given this free review copy audiobook at my request and have voluntarily left this review.

Eric is a new narrator for me. From the first sentence Eric had a positive, hopeful sound to his voice for me. I can hear his deep breaths between lines. There is a short (about 3 or 4 words) that didn't follow character tone in the beginning, I caught only because following the book at that time. Eric does do different tones for characters, giving them a sound of age and their own voice. I did pick up on one small repeat, I almost missed it as it was quick.

I just love that first sentence! What a sight that would be. The sentence really drew the picture for me.

We start with Cassius in a big battle in his life on Crius. This battle is one that lingers in Cassius's mind, and what he's trying to escape from. There are sections that are memories, though with this being audio you don't see the italics that indicate it's different than the here and now. It sounds like two conversations happening at the same time. Then Cassius doesn't talk to himself as much and is easier to catch as the book goes on. The book is focused on Cassius and his time on his current ship. The people are also residing on this ship are not who they seem to be.

As we learn these people aren't who they say they are, we see much more in this unstable universe. The different groups in the universe are all working at different angles. Even the people in the organizations have different angles they are working. So much to play with here!

Cassius grows through the book, as he grows to realize he has friends. Cassius is running from who he is. He wants to be someone that's not of the Archduchy to live his life with the guilt he feels. Through what he learns in the events he lives through, and the connections made, Cassius learns of details he didn't know before. I love the moment when Cassius gets a...closure with someone from his past. Cassius confronts feelings he'd been holding in.

Cassius grows attached to people which helps him along in his journeys. We learn a few have rather heavy pasts as well. The crew on the ship he finds himself on has many who are fugitives in their lands or pasts that aren't of the best actions. There are moments that feel drawn out with details of histories of people and descriptions, but the story comes together and the ending is non-stop.

I found that the AI take in this book was very interesting. There is also cloning in this book. Biodroids were a neat creation. I know we haven't heard the last of these. I don't want to give to much on this as it's a big play in the book. You have to read or listen to the book to get the details. We learn details that all come to a head at the end of the book with a special type of AI.

This wouldn't be a fun space story if we didn't get action scenes. We get just that, in space and on planet action. Even among the crew on the ship.

The world feels vast and full with crew that Cassius has acquired. I look forward to continuing with Cassius and what is in store for him next.



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