Podcast: Six Stories, Told at Night

Six Stories, Told at Night

By:  K.T. Bryski

Narrated By:  Blythe Hanes

Publish Date:  2016

Format:  Podcasted Audio Drama

Genre:  Fantasy

Series:  Stand alone

First Impression:  One girls tale mixed with fairy and anothers as she learns who she is.

Listen For Free:
iTunes  /  Feedburner 

My Thoughts and Summary:
*I listened to this story for my own enjoyment.

I love audio dramas. KT has added in sound effects to add to the story.

Blythe! Oh my! The emotion and character in her voice as she tells the stories. She slips into different feels to accent KT's writing. We get Sam in the here and now, worried. We get Joelle when she speaks with her French accent. We get the narration feel of old as old tales are told.

This story feels a bit of a different style but it's amazing how it all draws together! Current, past, and fairy stories mixed and easy to follow. These stories are short and quick, give or take 20 minutes each. But dang! They slip by in a moment as I'm listening enjoying the stories. I love the feel and the visions I get from them. We not only get the fairy tale of that episode but it's connected to Sam and Joelle, growing their history and friendship along with driving us to where Sam is going to find her friend.

We get stories of our characters, Joelle and Sam, along with an old, dark fairy tale. The combination of these together leads to the feel of the moment with Sam and adds flavor to emotions. The tale of when the girls were young and events of now show a great connection and friendship between the girls, setting us with the feeling of determination with Sam, to find Joelle.

Oh the background sounds that accent events of the story. Well placed. The music brings a chill to the old, dark tales as well.

One: Bonhomme Sept-Heures
20 mins
Description:
"It just takes the right story, that's all. Something impressive. A story they've never heard before." Sam's childhood friend Joëlle has vanished, leaving behind a note that doesn't make sense, a feather Sam doesn't recognize, and a lifetime of stories. Sam starts her quest with a retelling of Bonhomme Sept-Heures: a monster who steals away children out too late... Additional music by Kerri Lake (flute) and Kevin MacLeod ("Long Note One").

Thoughts:
First thing that caught my attention, the sound effects. Good gracious do I love the sounds that go with narration. It's like I'm sitting there with them. First is the sound of fire crackling, lightly added to the back to go with the voice, just like we are sitting together listening to a story.

This is just the beginning. Sam is determined to find her friend, Joelle. Sam is convinced there is something more to Joelle's disappearance. The big project Joelle was working on had fallen through, losing it's funding, but all Joelle's been talking about is Fairyland and all that exist there.

Two: Rose LaTulippe
23 mins
Description:
"This is a lot of little stories…and at the same time, it’s all one big story. That’s how life works, isn’t it?" Sam's archival investigations prove fruitless, but a clue to Joëlle's plans comes from an unexpected source. Interwoven is the story of Rose LaTulippe: a folktale with over 200 different versions - but none like Sam and Joëlle's. (Additional music: "Long Note One" (Kevin MacLeod), "Fiddle Melody" (Andrew Duke).

Thoughts:
This story is about Rose LaTulippe and how she wanted a dance, and got it, but is then tricked at the end.

This story shows how each tale curves for each listener. Sam sways the story of Rose to her liking, influenced by her desire to help Joelle. I love the personal feel to the stories, the fairy tale we get and Sam's story to help Joelle.

Three: Le Chien d'Or
27 mins
Description:
"I am a dog gnawing my bone/ In doing so, I rest alone/ A time will come that's yet to be/ When I bite him who's bitten me..." Sam finds some of Joëlle's old audio files, and recalls the night that almost ended things. Please note: this episode includes content some listeners may find upsetting. (Additional music by Kevin MacLeod: "Long Note One," and "In a Heartbeat.")

Thoughts:
This story is closely connected to Sam and Joelle as though they are sisters and a man that is important in this past moment. The parallel between the stories and the feelings left behind are what draws Sam to make connects to where Joelle might have gone, like she's done in the past. The mention of the big, dark forest and there is one place like this that Sam knows of. The one and only forest that appears in Joelle's stories.

These stories are stories Joelle shared with Sam as they grew up, and Sam loved them which is the connection to the story. The clues are embedded in these tales and what they mean to Sam and Joelle. This story tells Sam where to go looking next, where Joelle always went to think and be alone.

This old tale is a bit more coded in words than straight forward telling, though fairy tales do leave openings for you to draw your own conclusions. ;)

Four: The Wendigo
26 mins
Description:
"During harsh winters, starving people become wendigo to survive..." Sam enters the deep, dark woods and meets a helper. Sure, she's on Joëlle's trail - but nothing's more dangerous than a Trickster. Additional Music by Kevin MacLeod ("Long Note One," "Ossuary 6: Air," "Ghostpocalypse - 1 Departure") and Kerri Lake (flute).

Thoughts:
Into the dark woods Sam goes, and she crosses paths with Coyote, the trickster. The clues Joelle left for Sam come in handy, we see them connect to Sam being on the right path. One clue fits when Coyote transforms into a raven, matching the feather Joelle left behind.

This story shows when Joelle and Sam's friendship started to stretch thin and cool between them. Life changes, but they tried...

From the beginning of this story, my attention is drawn in. I love the feeling described with the woods at night and how Sam feels. It's written together and gives the feel we are to have, nervous and a slight bit anxious. Blythe vocalizes these words with the same trepidation we feel.

Five: La Corriveau
32 mins
Description:
"Whatever you do, don’t look back until I tell you. Otherwise, you’ve lost your friend forever." Sam takes Coyote's tests, and shares the last story Joëlle told her: that of La Corriveau, a witch who had seven husbands and killed them all... (Additional music by Kevin MacLeod: "Long Note One," "Heartbreak," "Ossuary 6 - Air.")

Thoughts:
Oh! I almost forgot to share thoughts on this one as I was so drawn into the story and wanted to jump into episode 6, as I had it waiting when listening to this one.

Sam is getting closer. She must pass Coyote's tests. They are a trick of the mind, but hard to follow, like walking in front of Coyote and not look back.

Sam remembers the last time she saw Joelle. Joelle didn't look good, but all she could think about is Fairyland. She wanted to know anything more that Sam knew of Fairyland... how to get there, the land of where all stories come from. Sam breaks it to Joelle, it's not real. Joelle freezes over. This feels like the breaking point of their friendship. It's sad to see it at this point, I'm attached to them both.

Like I said, I was drawn to the tale as we are getting closer to Fairyland as we follow Coyote's tests. Oh soooo close! I'm still drawn to the blend of writing and emotion of voice here. Now, I can't wait any longer! To story six!!

Six: The Storyteller's Tale
22 mins
Description:
"This is the last story." Additional music by Kerri Lake (flute music) and Kevin MacLeod ("Reminiscing").

Thoughts:
This is the end of the tales. It brings Sam, and us, to learn who Sam is and has become. She finally tells her first story.

Oh my. Blythe sounds as though she's really crying at the end, the stuffiness to her nose and voice. I love this! This is so hard to impersonate, to actually make me believe it.

Now this story brings to my mind that the search for Joelle is more a search to learn herself for Sam. Do we find Joelle? Mmm, I can't say. I do want more tales from Sam though. And to know what's inside Fairyland, I even wonder on Joelle too.


Should you listen to this podcast? Absolutely! The weaving of the stories that K.T. does here is all talent and gives the feel of an old soul traveling the world to share her words. Stories that hold your attention and heart, leading you to a conclusion that you finish in your mind. Time very well spent listening to.

Audio Book Review: Alight

Alight

By:  Scott Sigler

Publish Date:  April 5, 2016, Audiobook Release April 5, 2016

Format:  Audiobook - 12 hrs 2 mins
Narrated By:  Emma Galvin

Genre:  Young Adult Fantasy/Sci Fi

Series:  2nd in The Generations Trilogy; Book 1 ~ Alive

First Impression:  New planet and so many worries for survival.

Synopsis:
Alight is the second installment in the YA sci-fi adventure trilogy by New York Times bestselling author Scott Sigler, hot on the heels of Alive.

Alight reveals to readers the further adventures of Em, Spingate, O’Malley, Bishop, and the other young heroes introduced in Alive. In Alive, Em fought to assert herself as leader and her friends tried to comprehend their own mysterious identity; now she must wrestle not with the challenge of winning power but the grave responsibility of having assumed it, and she and her friends must contend with a grim fact: the revelation of their identity is not an answer but another question—and one with terrifying implications.

First Sentence:
A stabbing pain jolts me awake.

Purchase At:
Amazon  /  Barnes & Nobles  /  Book Depository

Audible

My Thoughts and Summary:
*I listened to the free podcast of the audio book.

Em and the birthday children are now on the planet, but can they survive? The food stores are not eatable and there are others here that are a threat to them. But the children also have their own divisions starting which is fueled by the learning of the symbols and what the grown-ups had planned. The grown-ups are also a worry for the kids too.

Yes this is the audio book I listened to but it was done in sections through podcast on Scott Sigler's site. Scott is kind enough to give us a recap of what came to pass in Alive and each previous episode of where we left off. This makes it easier to remember what was happening and how I felt at those events.

Emma returns to narrate the book, which I'm glad because the personality she portrayed for Em in the first book became Em for me. In other words, I've grown attached to her for the characters. Emma does a fabulous job of voicing the personality of all the characters, Em, Bishop's strength, Aramovski's smooth jabs at Em, and so much more for those we've grown close to. I love the emotions Emma brings to Em and all the characters she voices.

The beginning of the book gives us a great rundown of all the events Em has lived through and brings the fresh rush of fear and sorrow through living through it. I really liked this beginning. It's like Em is awakening for the first time again. The kids had to get into coffins in order to land. There is a gas that subdued them for the landing process, so in a way Em is waking again. And she feels all the fear she felt the first time blended with the fears she felt and faced in Alive. This fits so well.

We dive in with a new sight and new world. What Em and the birthday children find is nothing they ever imagined! The planet they were created to live on has been explored already. And it's ready for them. Where I thought Alive was a slower start, this book is the opposite. As they find things that are useful, they find something bad about it or countering it. The kids will all have to find a way to survive. And the comment of Brewer from Alive makes sense to Em now, 'hopefully you can break the mold...'

The first awakened kids are all scared, inside and out. The things they had to do to survive scars them inside and the battles they fought make them unique from those that created them.

I really like Em and how she leads. She knows if she can't face danger, how could she expect others to. Em is a wonderful leader. She's not the smartest in all areas, but she makes the gut decisions needed to keep everyone safe and to survive. That's what it takes in a world like this. She's a natural at this. She also knows when to delegate to those that have the knowledge in different areas.

Em stands for so much more to me than a character in a story. Her whole creation shows that people can be more than others think. You can do more with your own drive and will pushing you. Em has taken her self beyond what she was originally destined to be. Em grows in mental and emotional strength through this book. She does what needs to be done, but I worry about her when it's all said and done. The aftermath is going to break her inside, but sometimes that seems to be the sacrifice that great leaders have to make.

Em has a growing relationship with O'Malley and Bishop as these kids grow and experience feelings. But then there's Aramovsky. Grrr. He is such a thorn in Em's side! But he's so well written, tip of the hat to Scott for a job well done as I really do not like him. I dread each time he opens his mouth.

This is the second book of the trilogy, you will want to read the first book first. We get some answers to things we've been curious to. Yet a whole new struggle for the birthday kids starts. My heart goes out to Em...what she learns and how she tries so hard to do for all.

This book blew me away. For me, it was beyond better than the first book. Maybe I am more aware as to what to expect from Scott's writing coming into this book... But this book has hit way beyond my expectations with twists and turns, reveals, and unexpected events. I did listen to this as a podcast and each and every episode had my full attention. The suspense has gripped my attention in this book along with the action, unknown, and all that we learn here. My heart pounded for the kids I've grown close to. I fear for death and worse, the transfer of the adults to them.

The ending leaves us with finishing the battle to survive on the planet, but there is still worries and stresses. And new threats on the horizon.



****If you found my thoughts helpful, please click Yes at Amazon. Thank you!

Author Post: What Fairy Tales Taught Me

I'm thrilled to invite KT Bryski back to the blog to share on her newest stories with us, Six Stories, Told at Night.



Hi! I’m KT Bryski—Canadian author, podcaster, and playwright. I’m so thrilled to be back on Mel’s blog—it’s a delight every time. :)

I’ve recently released a one-woman audio drama: Six Stories, Told at Night. Five traditional Canadian folktales interweave within a larger framing narrative. Our heroine Sam is trying to save her friend Joëlle from the Faerie realm, and the only way to enter the Otherworld is to tell the Faerie Queen a story she’s never heard before. Hence, my folktales.

In preparation for this project, I read a lot of fairy tales. That said, I’ve been reading fairy tales for as long as I can remember, so it really wasn’t too different. You might say that I’ve been steeped in them. So what has a lifetime of reading fairy tales taught me?

Take the first step

For an adventure to happen, you actually have to…you know, set out on an adventure. Fairy tales usually start in a place of calm and stability: the family farm, the castle, the once upon a time. And then something happens.

And then, you have a choice. Stay by the fire and pretend things are still the same?

Or leave the safety of your cottage and venture into the woods?

There are always helpers

Sometimes, it’s a fairy godmother. Sometimes, a talking cat. Sometimes, it’s a giant’s wife, or the mysterious old crone down the lane, or a kindly king. Sometimes, it may even be your neighbour, your former high school teacher, your best friend.

But there are always helpers. Even (especially?) when you feel most alone.

Magic often comes disguised

Much like the polar bear who’s actually a prince, or Donkeyskin labouring in the kitchens (I know she’s not magically disguised, bear with me), the best things aren’t always apparent when you first see them. Sometimes, it takes a while to recognize the magic. The key is to never stop looking for it.

The deep, dark woods is never where the story ends

The deep, dark woods is the testing ground. It’s the descent to the underworld, where our hero or heroine undergoes figurative (and sometimes literal) death and rebirth. But for all the fear, trials, and pain, the deep dark woods is never the end of the story. It’s the hour of the wolf, the darkness before daybreak.

So when you find yourself there—push through. Even when the shadows are at their fullest, it is never, ever the endpoint.

A real “fairy tale ending” is transformation

So the story’s over, and you’ve got the castle, the gold, and the glory. That’s a fairy tale ending, right?

Not necessarily. Remember how the deep, dark woods is a place death and rebirth? The ending of the fairy tale is the hero/ine transformed. It’s like a butterfly emerging from its chrysalis—after a time of darkness and change, you emerge as something else. Something that can soar.

Transfiguration isn’t always pretty. It’s not always gold and glory. But ultimately, I think it’s more satisfying.

Thanks again for having me, Mel. You can check out Six Stories, Told at Night wherever fine podcasts are found—and navigate the woods with our heroine.

Cheers!
KT

KT Bryski is a Canadian author and podcaster. She has short fiction in Daily Science Fiction, and stories forthcoming from Strange Horizons and Apex. Her audio dramas “Six Stories, Told at Night” and “Coxwood History Fun Park” are available wherever fine podcasts are found, and she is currently at work on her next novel. KT is a graduate of the Stonecoast MFA in Creative Writing. As you may have guessed, she also has a mild caffeine addiction. Visit her at www.ktbryski.com.

Book Review: Revolutions (part 1)

The Secret World Chronicles: Revolutions
(season 6)
By:  Mercedes Lackey & Cody Martin, Dennis Lee, and Veronica Giguere

Narrated By:  Veronica Giguere

Publish Date:  2010

Format:  Podiobook

Genre:  Fantasy

Series:  3rd book in The Secret World Chronicles series; 1st Book 1/2 (season 1) ~ Invasion, 1st Book 2/2 (season 2) ~ The Hunt, 2nd Book 1/2 (season 3) ~ World Well Lost, 2nd Book 2/2 (season 4) ~ Revolutions, 2.5 Book (season 5) ~ Bonus: Waiting On

***NOTE: I've learned that the podcasted books are divisions of the printed books as follows:
Printed book 1 is Invasion is podcasted seasons 1 & 2.
Printed book 2, World Divided, is podcasted seasons 3 & 4.
Season 5 podcast, Waiting On, is a bonus season - it's stories of characters between books 2 and 3.
Printed book 3, Revolutions, is podcasted seasons 6 & 7.
Printed book 4, Collision, is podcasted books 8 & 9 (season 8 in progress, season 9 yet to come).

(Podcast season titles:
Season 1: Invasion, Season 2: The Hunt, Season 3: World Well Lost, Season 4: World Divided, Season 5: Waiting On, Tales of the Secret World War, Season 6: Revolutions, Season 7: Run Silent, Run Deep, Season 8: Collision)

Recommendation:  Superheroes!

Synopsis:
(no synopsis on Goodreads)

Purchase At:
Amazon  /  Barnes & Nobles  /  Book Depository
*I'm linking the full length book for you to purchase.

Listen For Free:
iTunes  /  Podiobooks  /  Secret World Chronicle website

*I listened to this story for my own enjoyment.

My Thoughts and Summary:
What happens when you have a foe is on the inside? ECHO could be in trouble. They need to band together in secret and with others to stay alive.

Bruno is with Scope on the hunt for Harmony. They are looking for Harmony to make her pay for her deeds in Alex Tesla's office. While we travel with Bruno and Scope, it feels like a tribute to Bullrick and his importance to some of the agents. Scope doesn't want to use Vickie's magic help, nor Red Genie's help. All ECHO contacts would not be used, that they wouldn't back them with the revenge payment Harmony was deserved, maybe with an ally that they least expected. Revenge can make likely allies.

Vickie holds my attention and curiousities still. I love seeing her work her magic. And it seems she's becoming the unexpected element that tips the scales in the favor of the good guys, those that want to help people. Vickie holds a power that no one considered in their plans. It's wonderful to see!

In this season, this book, I feel the characters are coming together for more than just a common foe. Their paths cross and the need is there, but they are becoming closer to each other. Like a family. I like this feel with the characters. With this closeness comes the opening of feelings and the history we want to know.

In fighting together and working so closely the hearts start to grow fonder. We see characters starting to draw closer to others. Love and hearts start to get in the way of actions, and even when love isn't returned in kind but given to another.

I didn't realize that I've become totally invested in the Meta's by now. It was something that snuck up on me and has hit me.

The tales of these Meta heroes is an epic one as the world works through all their troubles and fight the battles for humanity.

Now we end with a new battle to be fought, one on the homefront with a different aggressor toward ECHO Meta's. Looking forward to getting into the next podcasted season.

Audiobook Review: Waiting On

The Secret World Chronicles: Waiting On
(season 5)
By:  Mercedes Lackey & Cody Martin, Dennis Lee, and Veronica Giguere

Narrated By:  Veronica Giguere

Publish Date:  2010

Format:  Podiobook

Genre:  Fantasy

Series:  3rd book in The Secret World Chronicles series; 1st Book 1/2 (season 1) ~ Invasion, 1st Book 2/2 (season 2) ~ The Hunt, 2nd Book 1/2 (season 3) ~ World Well Lost, 2nd Book 2/2 (Season 4) ~ World Divided

***NOTE: I've learned that the podcasted books are divisions of the printed books as follows:
Printed book 1 is Invasion is podcasted seasons 1 & 2.
Printed book 2, World Divided, is podcasted seasons 3 & 4.
Season 5 podcast, Waiting On, is a bonus season - it's stories of characters between books 2 and 3.
Printed book 3, Revolutions, is podcasted seasons 6 & 7.
Printed book 4, Collision, is podcasted books 8 & 9 (season 8 in progress, season 9 yet to come).

(Podcast season titles:
Season 1: Invasion, Season 2: The Hunt, Season 3: World Well Lost, Season 4: World Divided, Season 5: Waiting On, Tales of the Secret World War, Season 6: Revolutions, Season 7: Run Silent, Run Deep, Season 8: Collision)

Recommendation:  Superheroes!

Synopsis:
The heroes of Echo and the villains of the Thule Society continue the battle in the fifth book of The Secret World Chronicle, Waiting On. In this shorter podcast-only season, the heroes of Echo struggle with their own pasts and demons as they wait for the organization to regain strength following a devastating loss. Famed fantasy and sci-fi author Mercedes Lackey and SWC perennials Dennis Lee, Cody Martin, and Veronica Giguere tell the stories of fan favorites Seraphym, Red Djinni, Victoria Victrix, Mercurye, and John Murdock. Cover art done by Adam Mancilla.

Purchase At:
Amazon  /  Barnes & Nobles  /  Book Depository

Listen For Free:
iTunes  /  Podiobooks  /  Secret World Chronicle website

*I listened to this story for my own enjoyment.

My Thoughts and Summary:
Season 5 of the podcast is a bonus season. It's stories from between books 2 and 3. This is the ending I was expecting in season 4, or partly as there are still a few subjects to address. There are a few new twists introduced here with a few characters that I'm curious to see if they are brought up in the future books.

These intermediate stories are wonderful to bring the wonder and suspense back to the story and plot. This bonus series has heightened my love for the characters and gave me a bit of what I wanted at the same time. I'm ready to keep going and see where the characters go on to.

Episode 1: Aces and Eights
On a bad day, Handsome Devil stays in bed. His luck is what he lives by and a bad day could be dangerous or even deadly for him and those around him. Today, Handsome Devil wants to stay in bed even though he got a full house from his morning deck of cards. A full house that's the dead mans hand...

Ramona is on her way from CCCP when spheres show up to a highly populated area. CCCP can't make it with all the sightings so she calls in ECHO. When Ramona sees Handsome Devil is not with Shockty, she demands he get there ASAP.

We see all the characters in this episode fight against the Thulians and their deadly spheres. We even see Seraphym show up and a bit of an inside with her thoughts.

It is always amazing to see the Meta's in action against the Thulians. And this episode does not fall shy of anything.

Episode 2: Night and Gold
Seraphym is limited in what she can do, how she can interced. She's not rebelled against the way she lives, but considers it now with the Thulians attacking a small town where CCCP nor ECHO can get there fast enough.

Now this episode. Oh. My. Seraphym does the one thing she's not fully done yet. And shouldn't do. It is amazing to see her in full action. We even get a closer feel of the rules by which she is to live by.

There is a mention of watching Seraphym and I'm curious how this will come into play in the future books. This has brought me to attention and I'm ready for more!

Episode 3: Running on Empty
Mercurye is stuck at the Metis watching reruns of tv shows. The collective concess of those here have not agreed to let him return home yet, no matter how hard he's tried to convince them.

First, I've noticed from the website that this is a rewrite of an episode from season 3 to tie in the prints better.

I enjoyed this episode because we get a better feel for how Metis runs. The secret place runs on a collection of equal votes from every person present. However, there are those that agree with Mercurye in letting him go, and more.

Mercurye meets Nikola Tesla for the first time. It seems Tesla has plans and wants Mercurye's help. What are the plans? I'm not sure, but it makes me anxious for what's to come!

Episode 4 & 5: For Those About to Rock
Vickie is to watch over Red Genie on his solo mission. She's as nervous about it as she always is when working with Red Genie. Some how this man gets to her.

We get to see part of their last mission that leaves Vickie even more worked up for the current mission she's working Overwatch for this time. Genie has got some serious issues with magic, but he's not sharing why with anyone, let alone with Vickie. However, maybe Red Genie will send Vickie in a few surprising loops with his reactions and answers to many comments.

I found these episodes rather interesting as wel learn a bit more about magic along with the speciality of Vickie's technomancy. The details here are so neat. But in learning about magic and Vickie's magic specifically, we learn about Vickie too. She's the only magician we see and know. Also she's the ONLY one able to work magic in technology.

But! there is more. Red Genie. (Aww.) Now that I got that out I'll go on. After this short, with the help of Vickie's little elemental friend Herb, I feel for Red Genie more. The previous season started to bring me around, but this cinched it for me. He's not really all that bad. There is more to him we haven't seen yet.

I look forward to seeing an honest, hard friendship growing here.

Episode 6 & 7: The Journal of John Murdock
John Murdock is on his way back from the Silo incident and Vickie has found him an amazing hotel to stay at. Along with learning about more Thulian threats, John also learns that Vickie has looked into his past. And can dig deeper.

Now this episode had my attention like the one with Seraphym. John and Seraphym have been huge interests of mine. And I'm still loving what I'm learning.

Vickie shares that she knows some of John's past from what she's found, and shares the records with him. In doing so, she hopes to learn what she can in case the Suits take him away again, this way she can help break him out. John agrees that she keep digging.

We know John has been enhanced, but we don't know much of the details. We get to see the day that John escaped from his imprisonment by the Suits. This feels like a major moment in John's past, and memories. A moment that seems to be a turning point for him, something he keeps close to heart to remember who he is and wants to be.

Audio Book Review: The Secret World Chronicles: World Divided (Part 2)

The Secret World Chronicles: World Divided (Part 2)
(season 4)
By:  Mercedes Lackey & Cody Martin, Dennis Lee, and Veronica Giguere

Narrated By:  Veronica Giguere

Publish Date:  2010

Format:  Podiobook

Genre:  Fantasy

Series:  3rd book in The Secret World Chronicles series; 1st Book 1/2 ~ Invasion, 1st Book 2/2 (season 2) ~ The Hunt, 2nd Book 1/2 (season 3) ~ World Well Lost

***NOTE: I've learned that the podcasted books are divisions of the printed books as follows:
Printed book 1 is Invasion is podcasted seasons 1 & 2.
Printed book 2, World Divided, is podcasted seasons 3 & 4.
Season 5 podcast, Waiting On, is a bonus season - it's stories of characters between books 2 and 3.
Printed book 3, Revolutions, is podcasted seasons 6 & 7.
Printed book 4, Collision, is podcasted books 8 & 9 (season 8 in progress, season 9 yet to come).

(Podcast season titles:
Season 1: Invasion, Season 2: The Hunt, Season 3: World Well Lost, Season 4: World Divided, Season 5: Waiting On, Tales of the Secret World War, Season 6: Revolutions, Season 7: Run Silent, Run Deep, Season 8: Collision)

Recommendation:  Superheroes!

Synopsis:
From New York Times best-seller and science fiction and fantasy mistress of adventure Mercedes Lackey, Book #3 in a new pulse-pounding saga of modern-day humans with superpowers. The metaheroes deal with supervillain Verdegris, who seeks to destroy them from within, before turning their attention back to the Thulian conspiracy.

It’s go time once again for the meta-heroes including fire-bender John Murdock, hacker-witch Vikki Nagy, healer Belladona Blue, super-quick Mercurye–and most of all for their ghostly ally, Seraphym, the spirit of the world Verdegris knows he must trap and destroy her if he is to take down the metas.

From New York Times best-seller and science fiction and fantasy mistress of adventure Mercedes Lackey together with a team of topnotch collaborators, the third entry in the blockbuster saga of superpowers–and the very human men and women who must learn to wield them.

Purchase At:
Amazon  /  Barnes & Nobles  /  Book Depository

*I'm linking the full length novel for your purchasing.

Listen For Free:
iTunes   /   Secret World Chronicle website

*I listened to this story for my own enjoyment.

First Sentence:
Vickie took a deep breath and another look at the clock.

My Thoughts and Summary:
In her own way, Seraphym shows a future to one person to shift the future of others. Seraphym has put Verdegre into action. Verdegre knows he's on the Tholian's list and what they will do to him. He now works to purchase Black Snake to get ECHO, as they are the only ones that can stop the Tholian's. John Murdock is sent to bring back electric parts, and he finds the Thulian's, Nazi's, are attacking and showing up in many places.

ECHO is really not doing well. It feels like it's falling apart. Meta's are not surviving well. A CEO was thrown in charge with what's happened to the world, which is why Tesla isn't acting like the general who should be in the chair. Then there's the Ide's of March... The prophesies. It's what has Tesla shacking in his chair behind his big desk. It's like a suicide note for ECHO.

I love the early episode, the one with Romona and Bella. This takes things in a different direction, really pulls things together and how people are working with what they know, preparing. And sharing those important tidbits with others. Things then start to turn with what we see and learn with Bella and Vicky.

Vicky...she's different, and has become one of my favorite charaters for it. Her magic is so neat to see. We even learn a bit of her history too. Oh do we learn about her with the help of Red Genie. And in the same token, we learn a bit about Red Genie too. This is where he starts to become more for me and the potential he has to help others. Bella is stepping up to a position that she never thought she'd do, but Bella is crafty enough to do it. I still enjoy John Murdock and the mystery surrounding him. I'm looking forward to what he has to bring to the events. And the Seraphym. Oh the Seraphym. She has a way to send people on a path without telling to act that way. She's not to interfer but she does give supportive talk when someone she needs to follow what they are thinking of doing, that it's the right thing to help.

Each Meta makes a bang of an entrance at the beginning. The world feels as it's trying to pull back together, but the Nazi's are not done with attacking and as our Meta's return to the pages, they all enter with individual flare.

The different Meta organizations, CCCP, Blacksnake, and ECHO, might be coming together to help fight against one common foe, whether they want to or not. But there are those that have their own agendas in mind as well.

The building to the climax is crafted in a way for us to get to know the characters more personally, and make us anticipate the moment it all explodes, or implodes. However the ending didn't feel as huge as I had thought it would. But, we've got a lot to deal with at ECHO in the next podcasted book. I'm diving into the next story as I want to know what comes to pass with ECHO and Verdegris.

We get to see the Thulians up close, face to face. Neat to see them without all there armor.

As for listening to this story. I can't be more amazed with Veronica's vocal accomplishments. There are so many different characters and voices that she does having all distinctly different. The characters have different accents, tones, speaking patterns, and so much more. Veronica does all this. I've even forgotten she's the only voice here with the magnitude of her voice command. Each character is distinct and easy to differentiate. Veronica is a woman of many voices.

Audio Book Review: Alive

Alive

By:  Scott Sigler

Publish Date:  July 14, 2015

Format:  Audiobook - 9 hrs 44 mins (Podcasted by Narrator at Author's site)
Narrated By:  Emma Galvin

Genre:  YA Fantasy/Sci Fi

Series:  1st in The Generations Trilogy series

Impression:  Children waking and making their own way in a strange world.

Synopsis:
A young woman awakes trapped in an enclosed space. She has no idea who she is or how she got there. With only her instincts to guide her, she escapes her own confinement—and finds she’s not alone. She frees the others in the room and leads them into a corridor filled with the remains of a war long past. The farther these survivors travel, the worse are the horrors they confront. And as they slowly come to understand what this prison is, they realize that the worst and strangest possibilities they could have imagined don’t even come close to the truth.

First Sentence:
A stabbing pain jolts me awake.

Purchase At:
Amazon  /  Barnes & Nobles  /  Book Depository

Audible

Listen At:
Authors site (for free)


My Thoughts and Summary:
*I listened to this podcasted book for my own enjoyment.

They wake in clothes that are to small for them. They don't know their names, other than the name on their 'coffins'. They don't remember their parents or much of anything else from their past. Lost inside a building they don't know, full of death and secrets. They need to find food and water and to get out of here. What they learn far surpasses what they could have imagined and they will have to fight for their freedom.

I listened to this story in podcasted story form on the authors site. Scott shared, in episode form, the audiobook with us week by week. Emma Galvin is the voice of Em Savage. The panic in Em's voice at the beginning is vocalized wonderfully, rising and falling in volume and speed with Em's growing anxiety. There is a special voice that Emma does and she has a different sound to it, as it should. She makes different sounds to her voice for a few occasions, important pieces. Emma also has the personality of the characters as they become dominate in them through the book, growing from the time they wake unsure to the time they are who they are. I like this variation, and it fits with when we learn the truth of that voice. Well played by the narrator along with the story.

This story caught my attention for the moment it started with the coffin and how the kids are bound to it inside. The strange all around the place and holes in the kids memories. I looked forward to answers while anxious for the characters waking and breaking free. Something terrible happened here with what the characters find, yet they were lucky to be spared. But what happened?

Imagine, young children around the age of ten in a twenty year old body. Physically stronger with a child's thinking and naive views. This is trouble in the making with the hormones and easy tempers rising. They don't remember much, but believe today is their 12th birthday. Yet they are in bodies of 19-20 year old. They do have their instincts and personalities that peek through with each reaction and circumstance that they cross.

The kids express from the moment they escape their 'coffins' different beliefs in the way things should be done or handled. Yet they don't know much either. They are scared, hungry, thirsty, and lost. All they want are their parents or grown-ups to help them. But they aren't around. I feel bad for these young minds, having to go through all they are and alone to figure it out.

Em Savage. Em is our MC. She's not the strongest physically and doesn't know everything, but the way she is makes her a leader. She is determined from the moment she wakes. I do like her realizations. She knows a leader shouldn't hit people and it's okay to challenge the leader in a way that's talking. Her thinking is right.

Strange thing for me with this book. It's not high action but I'm still drawn to the story. It's about survival. These children work to survive either by finding a way out or finding what they need, food and water. Each holding a different skill set and knowledge. If I read the book, I might have been a bit bored at the beginning of the book, but then things start twisting, turning, and showing up. All the sudden there is a heavy episode, or few chapters, that hits you as you didn't expect all that. More and more mysteries to this place. I'm dying to know where they are, why, and what happened. Suspenseful in that token.

The things these youngsters go through, 'born' at age 12, ages them by years. They no longer feel as the young naive children they started as. And are seeing things in their own ways and growing to their own ways of doing things.

Such an adventure here. Now I'm curious what comes with where they are heading next in life.

Tales from the Archives Vol 4 #4

Tales from the Archives, Vol. 4: #4

By:  Philippa Ballantine & Tee Morris

Written by:  Tim Dodge
Narrated by:  Tim Dodge

Format:  Podcast, 42:56 minutes

Genre:  Fantasy, Steampunk

Series:  4th in Tales of the Archives Vol. 4 podcasts, part of A Ministry of Peculiar Occurrences series

Recommendation:  Nice way to meet new characters and authors in this steampunk-ish world particularly if you enjoyed the book; A Ministry of Peculiar Occurrences Novel, Phoenix Rising.  The archives are full of stories to be told.

Synopsis:
Down by the River

Agent Brandon Hill of the Ministry meets Agent Bill Wheatley of the Office of the Supernatural and the Metaphysical meet up in Afton, New York. The House of Usher is moving a large and dangerous weapon through this small town, and it is up to the agents to track it down. However, not all the residents are quite the same as they seem.

Purchase eBook at:
Amazon

Listen for Free at:
iTunes  /  Tales from the Archives website

*I listened to this short story for my own enjoyment.

My Thoughts and Summary:
Agent Brandon Hill meets Agent Bill Wheatley at the train station of Afton, New York. He's hear as he's heard word of a danger that will be coming through town. The House of Usher will be transporting a destructive weapon through this town in the cover of dark.

Agent Hill and Agent Wheatley are to find the weapon and stop it. But there may also be locals that are involved. Can they find them and arrest them?

Tim Dodge narrates this story himself. As he's well spoken and his words are clear, his voice is a bit laid back for me. Pauses make the story feel easy and relaxed and feels it breaks up sentences. This is a cadence that I feel doesn't flow consistent for me, but many might like.

This story feels to be a slower start in a calm, little town. It didn't feel like much of a big event, and the man who brings the weapon seems to not be expecting the Ministry of Peculiar Occurrences along with the Office of the Supernatural and the Metaphysical to be present in this small village. So it was easy to overtake him.

There are a few neat robots here. The Afton Inn has a robot that takes luggage up to your room. And we see Agent Brandon Hill use night goggles.




Would you like to listen to these? For a taste of the characters or in addition to the book... Visit The Ministry of Peculiar Occurrences.

You can find these for your Reading pleasure in any eFormat you would like at Smashwords.

You can find the Archives: Amazon Kindle ~ Tales from the Archives Scroll through the list for them all, and the ones you still need.

There are short stories always added to the listing. So keep checking back!

Tales from the Archives, Vol. 4: #3

Tales from the Archives, Vol. 4: #3

By:  Philippa Ballantine & Tee Morris

Written by:  Katharina Bordet
Narrated by:  Katharina Bordet & Mick Bordet (music by Mick Bordet)

Format:  Podcast, 35:05 minutes

Genre:  Fantasy, Steampunk

Series:  3rd in Tales of the Archives Vol. 4 podcasts, part of A Ministry of Peculiar Occurrences series

Recommendation:  Nice way to meet new characters and authors in this steampunk-ish world particularly if you enjoyed the book; A Ministry of Peculiar Occurrences Novel, Phoenix Rising.  The archives are full of stories to be told.

Synopsis:
The Black Empress

When two agents from the Ministry of Peculiar Occurrences are called to Vienna to investigate disturbances at the palace, what they discover could threaten the Austro-Hungarian Empire and shatter the fragile peace in Europe. Who is the mysterious man who has pulled diplomatic strings to enlist the help of a foreign agency and how is the Empress Elisabeth herself involved?

Purchase eBook at:
Amazon

Listen for Free at:
iTunes  /  Tales from the Archives website

*I listened to this short story for my own enjoyment.

My Thoughts and Summary:
Two agents from The Ministry of Peculiar Occurrences are sent to Vienna to look into the strange actions of Empress Elisabeth. She secludes herself in the basement, yet there are people that walk in and those that walk out seem...different. The one to call them in for help is concerned about the Empress as she's been this way since her children have died.

This story has a darker feel to it with the ugly ghost of death lingering. There are so many questions as to why death claims some that are so loved.

Our agents venture to Vienna to investigate what is happening in the basement. With the masquarade ball approaching, it's the perfect time to make the trip to the basement. But what they find puts their lives in danger as well.

This story has a bit of steampunk but also has a mad scientist feel on the dark side as well. Interesting.

This story is narrated by amazing voices yet at times when two men are talking you need to pay attention to realize which man it is as they are done in the same voice. (Many may find this easy to do with listening to audiobooks.)



Would you like to listen to these? For a taste of the characters or in addition to the book... Visit The Ministry of Peculiar Occurrences.

You can find these for your Reading pleasure in any eFormat you would like at Smashwords.

You can find the Archives: Amazon Kindle ~ Tales from the Archives Scroll through the list for them all, and the ones you still need.

There are short stories always added to the listing. So keep checking back!

Audiobook Review: 7th Son: 7 Days

7th Son: 7 Days

By:  J.C. Hutchins

Publish Date:  December 2012

Format:  Podiobook

Genre:  Science Fiction

Series:  Prequel Anthology to 7th Son trilogy; 1st Book ~ Descent, 2nd Book ~ Deceit, 3rd Book ~ Destruction

First Glance Feel:  A day in the lives of all the beta clones before they came together.

Synopsis:
7th Son: 7 Days is a free audio prequel anthology to J.C.’s thriller novel, 7th Son: Descent. Set two weeks before Descent’s extraordinary events, the series reveals the lives of seven seemingly unrelated men, and their everyday challenges.

In the world of 7th Son, “everyday” challenges are far from ordinary. Each of these seven stories stars a unique John Michael Smith. Witness criminal profiler Dr. Mike’s quest to hunt an unstoppable serial killer. Watch blue-collar musician John realize a lifelong dream. Ride shotgun with USMC captain Michael on a dangerous black ops mission in the Middle East. Behold the worldwide influence of deranged computer hacker Kilroy2.0 … and more.

7th Son: 7 Days represents the creative reboot of the popular 7th Son thriller series. Designed to tightly integrate with 7th Son: Descent’s print novel storyline, 7 Days is a perfect introduction to the 7th Son universe. Meet the Beta clones … before they knew they were clones.

Purchase At:
Amazon  /  Barnes & Noble

My Thoughts and Summary:
I had read somewhere to listen/read this anthology AFTER the trilogy.

Each episode has comments made about the beta clone in it that are off yet right on point about them. None have a clue that they are more than the average man they believe they are and the comments have an ironic ring to them. J.C. is crafty in how each beta clone crosses paths with each other. They aren't like they meet on the street at different times but that their events are public and known to the others. These men are amazing in their special fields and these shorts show that, along with readying them for what's to come...

To get the full effect of each short episode and the double meaning in the words, I would highly suggest reading/listening to the trilogy first.

Monday: Jack
Jack has one place when the world is falling apart that he goes. Today he takes his daughters with him to the park. He wants to get them away from the news of the presidents terrible death at the hands of a child.

We see Jack in one day of his life, trying to put things together and find his peace when the world shines it's light on terrible events. But Jack's had a rough month and this month was to be better. Then the person Jack has a restraining order against, the man who's dead set against what Jack does at the University, shows up. Kalajian.

Jack's emotions are at a high and round the circle of different feelings. But the person Jack is and his personality holds true from the beginning and through the end. It's the feel for Jack that we get the whole way through the trilogy as well. He might weaver, but he's solid in his priorities.

There is a connection to the beginning of the trilogy here. I think there is even a drop to Father Thomas, though he'd not seen Father Thomas but heard of something great he did.

The other strange thing to this episode, I know it's planned but I liked it, is that Kalajian makes comments to Jack in reference to what he does as a profession, neither have a clue as to how those comments are closer to the vest than expected. These thoughts could refer to what is yet to be learned about Jack. For that reason, I like that I listened to this AFTER listening to the trilogy.

Tuesday: John
Today is a big day for John. A day he takes a small step to hopefully a bigger end.

John is the free spirit of the group. He isn't tied to one place or job, well until now as he found the girl of his dreams. He's a musician and taking a big step that will hopefully led his music career into something more.

This is a calm tell of a day in John's life. Nothing out of the ordinary happens. He enjoys his bike run and what he's doing. He seems to love life and his girlfriend, Sarah. All seems as it's going well for him.

Sarah's words about John ring as a reminder to what is to come and what I already know about with the trilogy. The words are true for John, yet there is an irony there that they aren't. I love this double thinking while listening.

We also get to hear a few songs by John Smith. If you'd like to hear them, you can find them on J.C. Hutchins web page for the album John Smith Anyman.

Wednesday: Kilroy2.0
Kilroy2.0 has done his research. The man that was hired to find him and stop Kilroy and his flock from their Internet searches and talks is now going to get a lesson. A lesson and warning to back away from Kilroy2.0.

Oh this is a great episode. I've always been suspicious and interested in Kilroy since the trilogy. Here, we get to see him talking to the walls. We hear what the walls have to tell him. And the best part, the walls almost tell the future. What they say to him fits with what happens to Kilroy in the trilogy. The mention of messiah, Messiah's killed then resurrected. Oh does it fit.

But this is cool to see Kilroy2.0 work his computer magic. He taps in and really gives the man a lesson in computer hacking. This is so neat. Oh the power of the Internet.

Thursday: Dr. Mike
A day in the life of a criminal profiler. Dr. Mike is on the job with a twisted serial killer out in the city.

The hoops the killer creates for the police and Dr. Mike to figure out and find him are terrible. The killer uses parts of the person they killed to give clues. This definitely would take a strong stomach to look so closely at these.

This is like a quick murder case for us to figure out, as Dr. Mike figures it out today after three weeks of searching. We do get left with the feel of who's the guilty party. I liked this feel as it's like a short mystery story.

This case is just a small indication at the 'games' of warp minded criminals that Dr. Mike can figure out. A preparation for what's to come in the trilogy.

I did get a kick out of what Kilroy2.0 did yesterday affects today's computer usage. lol. These characters don't know how they are crossing paths, when they do.

Friday: Michael
The Marines were called in to Iraq where a city is burning. Rookman Oil refinery employees are held hostage. Michael goes in with his crew to stop the men.

Michael is the action hero we like to watch or listen. Lots happening, guns, fighting, vehicle race, things that go boom, and more. This short reminded me of one scene in the trilogy, but it was with a different beta clone then.

We hear who was guilty in Dr. Mike's case from yesterday. Crafty connection here. I didn't see that coming and was great to see the answer (I really wanted to hear it). This story also mentions Rookman Oil here in Iraq and the hits they have taken. Also, there's mention of the body wear Michael tested, Viper wear. These last two things are handy notes to know in the trilogy.

Saturday: Jay
Jay's helicopter is shot down. He's on a mission from United Nations in Columbia to investigate the living conditions of the people of the land. But who would take down the helicopter?

Jay is, well, Jay. His reaction to the sudden death around him. The visions... Jay is sick at the sight.

This was interesting to see Jay on the job. I don't know why, but when listening to the trilogy I didn't realize Jay traveled so heavily. To be in far away lands and in the middle of troubles.

There is a danger in the lands with gorilla warefare use. And there is mention of the local group that could be the ones to take down the helicopter. They have access to weapons, given weapons. I'm curious what they want with the helicopter, or what is in it that they want.

Sunday: Father Thomas
Father Thomas gives a sermon on the need of faith, and epic faith, at this time with all the terrible, scary events that have happened.

Father Thomas is the perfect fit for ending this anthology. His sermon ties in all the events of the previous beta clones. All the tragic events they are fighting through. Thomas connects the last 6 days together and draws a close to the week. That people can easily forgo faith when things are as crazy and terrifying as they are now. He wants his congrigation to hold on to faith as there are still good people and deeds being done in the world.

We also see Father Thomas's strong faith he holds. This show of his believe and faith gives us a background and explains why Thomas was so rocked in the trilogy. We get a view into his karate black belt and how he came back to his path with God.

Audio Book Review: Invito Rex

Invito Rex

By:  Brand Gamblin

Publish Date:  December 1, 2013

Format:  Podiobook

Genre:  Neo-Victorian

Series:  2nd in Noblesse Oblige series; 1st Book ~ The Hidden Institute

First Glance Feel:  Dizzy who is one of the best at being a lower lord now has a true challenge and a bigger con to pull off. But is it a con?

Synopsis:
In a fantastic world not too far ahead of us, Victorian sensibilities have brought back the monarchy, with a caste system that is lethally enforced. Dizzy is a con man, a commoner who makes his living impersonating the nobility. But one wrong turn leaves him trapped in the most dangerous place of all, the palace of the king. Invito Rex is the futuristic steampunk sequel to "The Hidden Institute".

First Sentence:
"As the boy becomes the man, so he must bear new burdens of sufferance and sacrifice.

Purchase At:
Amazon  /  Barnes & Noble

Listen At:
iTunes  /  Podiobooks

My Thoughts and Summary:
The Dowager Queen is very well known by the nobility. Dizzy is about to meet her. He's nervous for what she will tell him, or what she could do to his cover as Earl of Viborg. Disraeli Augustus McCraken III is a con-artist. He posses as lower Earls, and only socializes with such. He doesn't push his luck with the high noble houses or the King. Captain Gallant Trumble has other plans. He will find and arrest any fraud of royalty, and it's his mission to prove the Earl of Viborg is not who he says he is. The Kings advisers beat Captain Trumble in the chase and take Disraeli Augustus McCraken III in their custody. Dizzy must now fit into the shoes he never thought he'd even attempt to try to fit.

Oh my god! This ended like that?! I...*breath* It's a big cliffhanger. I rushed to the authors site and signed up for the authors newsletter to find out when the next book is coming. THERE HAS TO BE A NEXT BOOK! I want to know!

In visiting the authors site, I found he's shared the first chapter of the next book: The Absent Emperor. Thank you Brand!!!

This is Dizzy's story. Oh Dizzy, Oh Dizzy, Oh Dizzy. The troubles he gets himself into, but this one isn't completely at his doing. This is the ultimate con that Dizzy needs to pull off.

I do enjoy Dizzy. He's a creative man. He's not completely Royal in his nature of speak and actions. But his thinking in actions and decisions seem brilliant. He tries his hardest to fit the shoes of his predecessor, Cadvan. Dizzy makes me smile at his actions when he decides how he'll act and what he'll do.

The first chapter felt a bit full of things that I wasn't sure what was going on or the direction of the book. Chapter two was the one that set the ways of the world here. Chapter two was the one to clarify things for me and set things straight. I liked this chapter and what happens. It was all down hill for me from there. I was hooked and couldn't stop listening. I did find there were a few times at the beginning that a bit more details were given that felt to slow things for me, but as the book went on we did need those details. The detailing didn't happen for long, so read through them as it will all come together and you'll understand.

I wasn't sure who was conning who here. To see Dizzy take the crown as his own is amazing. He's a fun character and when he decides he'll be himself, things fall into place and work wonderfully. I wasn't even 100% sure he was to inherit the crown. We do get the definite answer to that question.

In this book we see the design and rank of the nobles. This is a breakdown to know how people are classed and how the students of The Hidden Institute sees who they are to work for, or in Dizzy's case who he will work to be. This book also has more of the automatons showing up and the ways of the world. I enjoyed seeing that there is many interesting things in this world with electronics and such that are interacted with more so in this book.

Each chapter has an insightful lead in. It all, in some way, connect to the rule and the King. It might be something a king did or knew or relations. There is information on Royals and their connection as well. This is interesting as it gives a deeper insight into many things. I wasn't sure what they were hinting at, until I started seeing how they were connected to those in the story and what was happening. And even with King Augustus III. I grew to anticipate these as the book went on, as it gave many great details.

As I've said, I'm signed up for the authors emails. I'm wanting more of this world and Dizzy. I want to know what Dizzy's ultimate plan is and how things work out. Can't wait for more!

I'm Excited! I Guest Posted!

I'm excited to share this guest post I did! What did I talk about?

I've done a complete post on Podiobooks.com (and how the books are FREE for listening) at Jen's blog, That's What I'm Talking About, in her Listen Up! segment. I hope you stop by to check it out. :)

We are all here because we love books. So why don’t we take that three dimensional book and make it four dimensional? How do we do that, you ask. My answer to that is Podcast Books. What are Podcast books? Well, I find these are the best way to listen to books. For me, it’s a step up from audiobooks (which have come a long way in recent years). The story is broken into episodes, or chapters, and can be found at Podiobooks.com.....

Read more at Listen Up! hosted by Jen at That's What I'm Talking About. I'll gladly stop by and comment and answer any questions I can. :)

Audio Book Review: The Hidden Institute

The Hidden Institute

By:  Brand Gamblin

Publish Date:  March 2011

Format:  Podiobook

Genre:  Neo-Victorian

Series:  1st Noblesse Oblige series

First Glance Feel:  A unique world for boys to learn to be better. Oh and what they learn to be, but there are a few who strive for more.

Synopsis:
Rising above your station can be deadly. Cliffy is a child born on the streets of a Neo-Victorian world. Witnesses to a murder, he blackmails a nobleman, receiving a unique bribe. In exchange for his silence, the nobleman introduces him to the Malcolm Rutherford Holden Institute of Regentrification. There, Cliffy learns to walk, talk, and act like a nobleman, so that he may infiltrate high society. But that type of fraud is punishable by death, and when Cliffy uncovers a plot to assassinate a head of state, he's hunted by more than just the aristocracy. Royal intrigue, daring escapes, sub-dermal machines, and bear polo. A grand adventure in a not-so-distant world.

First Sentence:
Lord Wheylan Simmons was not in attendance when his valet was murdered.

Purchase At:
Amazon  /  Barnes & Noble  /  Book Depository

Listen At:
iTunes  /  Podiobooks

Brand Gamblin's site

My Thoughts and Summary:
Cliffy sees a man die, the man with him offers Cliffy a chance of a lifetime. Cliffy takes it but, being at The Hidden Institute, he's made some enemies of power. He's set to go to a ball in which being barely a freshman he would not be sent on this test. At that ball Cliffy learns the dangerous Silks are present. The Silks make it their life to find and expose those that graduate from The Hidden Institute and lie about who they are. Cliffy can't pass on the chance to learn who the Crone, and leader of the Silks, is. Slowly Cliffy uncovers secret groups in the Institute, one in particular that is hired to kill once they graduate.

The Malcolm Rutherford Holden Institute skates on the outskirts of the law as it's hidden from others. And they are criminals of a sense with falsifying information and histories of their students. The school has a huge mysterious feel of it's own as we enter. In a way it reminds me of a Hogwarts when we first enter, but for fake nobles. It's really fascinating and has it's own history, enemy, rules, and much more to it.

I really love the creation of the servant education here. The Hidden Institute has a magical draw for me with the well created world and history here. Even the solid personality of Dizzy is wonderful. He's bold and knows the ways yet he's not fully conceded in demanding for his own needs. He has a respect for the help and what they do. Yet he wants to be more than the low Nobel position the Institute teaches them to be.

There is a mechanical essence present to the story. It's not really steampunk or overly mechanical. The term Brand has attached to the genre is spot on, Neo-Victorian. There's a Victorian era feel to the story yet a bit more. There's an automation to take care of the needs of Dizzy and Cliffy at the Institute and in their rooms. lol. The automation helps in speech, posture, and to needs of chair opening and such. There are a few additional mechanicals in the story as well. I really like the idea of how they 'know' information.

Cliffy is a street urchin through and through. He doesn't take well from the command of others. He is independent and use to having a bit of control over what he does. The story seems that he loses that, yet he has to learn to have greater control over himself. Cliffy is an inquisitive boy. He's not afraid to back down from anything, or anyone, and it finds him in mischievous situations. I really like Cliffy. He has a way about him. He's not a bad kid from the streets. He's independent yet has a heart and cares.

We get to attend classes with Cliffy when he starts. I found I really enjoyed what each teacher brings to the students. The intent of what the students are to learn, the deep down reason and moral they need to know. The way the teachers teach these major points is very interesting. They use different ways than we would think so the students learn by doing. It sticks with Cliffy and the reader greatly, along with keeping the action and events interesting and important for later. And how the other students interact with Cliffy, all makes it intriguing.

Brand does an amazing job of drawing a world and details of why things are as they are crafted to the way of living of the Royals and all around. I love this full circle creation and connection.

Tales from the Archives, Vol. 4 #2

Tales from the Archives, Vol. 4: #1

By:  Philippa Ballantine & Tee Morris

Written & Narrated by:  Michael A. Ventrella

Format:  Podcast, 35:28 minutes

Genre:  Fantasy, Steampunk

Series:  2nd in Tales of the Archives Vol. 4 podcasts, part of A Ministry of Peculiar Occurrences series

Recommendation:  Nice way to meet new characters and authors in this steampunk-ish world particularly if you enjoyed the book; A Ministry of Peculiar Occurrences Novel, Phoenix Rising.  The archives are full of stories to be told.

Synopsis:
The Mummy of Barnsley

Northern England, 1894

Agent Ernest Throckmorton is called to Barnesley to investigate reports of a Mummy terrifying the town. Throckmorton soon finds himself thrown together with an all too eager assistant desperate to be part of the Ministry, as they hunt down the meaning of the Mummy’s ominous threat. All shall pay for the desecration of the tomb!

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My Thoughts and Summary:
Agent Ernest Throckmorton is sent to investigate a mummy sighting and the deaths that resulted. Agent Ernest finds himself in the path of the mummy...

I loved that this episode starts off right in the heat of things. Agent Throckmorton is being chased by the murdering mummy! Then he wakes in his room as he was found outside, passed out.

The narrator sounds new to podcasting/reading with the growth of volume and pauses while reading. But shortly into the story, when he's doing different voices, he starts to get 'into character' and better at fluid conversing. He does do a great job of differentiating the characters vocally for us.

I did get a kick out of the 'weapons' used to fight. They are common items but were perfect for the fun of the read. The relation to steampunk is ever present too. There is a connection to the clocks and not needing wound and, well, there are a few other things but if I mention you might catch them. ;)



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I listened to this short story for my own enjoyment.