Audio Book Review: The Silver Serpent by David Debord

The Silver Serpent by David Debord
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

This felt like the starts of a journey to find who they are.

We have 4 young adults who are of the age to start adulthood. But... they have other ideas about what they want to do compared to what their parents say they are to do. And with the news Oskar shares about a big tournament for champions announced to happen in their little village with the Prince present, Shanis and Hierm are excited to enter. However, when the Princes guards and many others are in town for the competition, one guard gets an idea to have his way with a young girl. Shanis helps Khalyndryn and the four young adults go on the run, fearing what would happen to them with a princes guard killed.

This leads them to find two "merchants" and join them on their mission... to find the Silver Serpent.

As they embark on this journey, these four young adults along with the two new friends learn more about themselves, the kingdom, and countries around them. They learn about friendship, love, and who they are.

This story does have a feel of young growth to it as I listened.

The audio version was nice, though the names are so, so close to the same that it's hard to tell who's name it being said. There was a few times I thought Larris was mentioned instead of his brother's name, and vise versa. This makes it hard to follow at times when talking about family. Other than the names, the audio was nice.

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Audio Book Review: Atlantis by David Wood

Atlantis by David Wood
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

David Wood never disappoints. I love how his stories always start with a a bang and into action we go. Though, Dane Maddock and Bones aren't the type to lounge around and do nothing. Well, at least not for long. lol. Then, the rest of the crew follows suit easily. This is why they all are great together on the missions.

Each member of the crew knows who they are and have bold personalities. They aren't afraid to be themselves and voice things. Also, all things are welcome to be voiced as in their line of work there could be danger if not discussed beforehand. This makes for a great friendships when you trust people so truly. Which leads to great quick quips and banter. Great friends like family. And some family too. ;)

As expected, there's lots of action and mystery and danger. I love seeing them go diving, climbing, and so much more.

The group does separate in this book to accomplish different goals on the same mission. Sometimes I struggled keeping up with what we learn and keeping it straight as we moved on to the next group. That's when things are coming to a head and we need all the pieces at the same time!

I enjoy these books so much, I went and printed the checklist from David's site so I can track what I've listened to and what I still need. :) I'm going to work to get on track and in order with his books. :)

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Audio Book Review: Anubis Key by David Wood & Alan Baxter

Anubis Key by David Wood
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Wow. I really get lost in these books. The adventure, danger, and the visualization of how the details are seen.

Jake and Rose on their adventure, looking for Rose's sister.

Rose and her sister aren't close, but she knows something is up. Never did Rose expect to find her sister was caught up in a search for... the Anubis Key.

This story had me from the beginning. The adventure that Jake and Rose are on...But I love that there's loads of serious thought put into the story. Jake and Rose are so smart and it shows in their details and knowledge of where they go and what the see.

I'll say, the connection of the Denver airport murals... This blew my mind. I actually went and searched to see the images as I listened to this part of the book. I love the secrets that the authors tied into these.

There is a touch of a growing connection between Jake and Rose. I do enjoy they way they respect each other and talk to each other. This is a duo I enjoy seeing work together.

I will gladly dive into the next Jake Crowley book, and any in the future.

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Audio Book Review: Solomon Key

Solomon Key

By:  David Wood

Publish Date:  December 31, 2017, Audiobook Release September 27, 2018

Format:  Audiobook - 5 hrs 55 mins
Narrated By:  Jeffrey Kafer

Genre:  Suspense, Thriller, Adventure

Series:  10th in A Dane Maddock Adventure series; 3rd Book ~ Quest, 5th Book ~ Buccaneer, 7th Book ~ Ark

Impression:  Unexpected adventures for Dane & Bones!

Synopsis:
The legacy of a kidnapped African warrior turned pirate sets Dane Maddock and Bones Bonebrake on a collision course with deadly organization that will stop at nothing to claim the greatest treasure in history. But more than riches are at stake. Enemies old and new and even old friends stand in Maddock's in a struggle to control the mysterious power unlocked by the SOLOMON KEY.

First Sentence:
Peter Archer, or red Pete as he was known to his crewmates, crept silently across the deck of the Blue Crane, which lay at anchor in sight of Port Royal.

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.

Jeffrey returns to voice Dane Maddock and crew once again. He's a fixed voice in this world, and I love it! He gives characters the accents they are to have from David's writing descriptions. Jeffrey may not have a female voice when he narrates, but that doesn't stop him giving them their own voice and personality. He brings all the characters to life this way.

As you can see from my reading/listening of the series, you do not have to read it in order. I've missed a few books along the way. But I still love the characters and the story and adventure in each book. And I absolutely want the books I've missed, just to get as much of these characters as I can.

I love that David doesn't worry about word count or length of book, but focuses on the story and what's needed to tell it. Totally awesome! We get full movement and information to keep moving forward through out the book. There are traps, fights, and mystery as we go through the adventure with Dane Maddock and Bones.

David takes us on an unexpected adventure with Maddock and Bones as they search for Solomon's ring. These two always find trouble, or I should say trouble finds them. I love their banter and their friendship. They have been through a lot together and it gives them plenty to pick on each other about, and not worry about what they are saying. This is a wonderful friendship!

We come across known people that Dane Maddock crossed paths with in the past and are friends. We also meet new people with the places Maddock and Bones travel to.

Maddock isn't a true believer in spirits or ghosts. This book puts his thoughts on ghosts to the test. And maybe will start to sway Maddock to the believer side. Very interesting touch on the ghosts with Solomon's mines.

This book left me with a few questions that I hope will come up in future books. Like what does the Sisterhood want with Solomon's mines. There has to be something more there, and I am looking forward to finding out what it is!

Another amazing adventure with Dane and Bones. I love my time with their journeys and look forward to many more to come.



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Audio Book Review: Exile

Exile

By:  David Wood & Sean Ellis

Publish Date:  September 28, 2017, Audiobook Release April 11, 2018

Format:  Audiobook - 8 hrs 26 mins
Narrated By:  Jeffrey Kafer

Genre:  Adventure, Suspense, Thriller

Series:  3rd in Jade Ihara Adventures series; 1st Book ~ Oracle, 2nd Book ~ Changeling

Impression:  Another hair raising adventure for Jade and Professor into the view of slavery.

Synopsis:
Jade Ihara is caught in a centuries old power struggle between a slave cult who believes she might be the incarnation of the goddess of liberty, and a secret cabal with plans for world domination. Can she unravel the mystery of the Cult of Veritas and find their sacred relics before it’s too late? David Wood and Sean Ellis deliver another action-packed thriller that will keep you on the edge of your seat! Fans of Indiana Jones, Tomb Raider, Rogue Angel, and Dane Maddock will love Exile!

First Sentence:
....
Purchase At:
Amazon  /  Barnes & Noble  /  Book Depository

Audible

My Thoughts and Summary:

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

As always, Jeffrey Kafer narrates the story with perfection. I know, it seems strange for a man to narrate a woman, but that does not defer from Jade's story in the least. I don't even hear that it's a male voice. Jeffrey has a way of carrying the suspense, adventure, and curiosity in his voice for the characters. He retains the calm the characters feel in stressful, scary moments. Although, there is some worry and nerves that creep through in this story for Jade and Professor, and Jeffrey enunciates them. We get the feel of the characters emotions, feelings, and personality through Jeffrey's tones and attitude voiced.

Wow. Jade spends most of the book on the run! She's running for her life in Rome, Italy along with on a slave boat. Jade is a handy woman on her own. Almost a female McGyver!

We start with Jade having been kidnapped, possibly being sold as a slave. We see a darker side to Haiti with Professor doing all he can to find Jade. This is where Jade gets nervous. What can she really do? Jade is determined to fight, and fight she does. She will do anything if there's a sliver of hope to survive.

This story is focused on Jade. She's grown as a character and in her skills, and it shows here. Even Professor notes it several times to himself. She may not need him around to protect her any longer. And that bothers him a bit. Jade has grown stronger. Some of the things she has to do... Ugh. *stomach drops* She's a bit more of a daredevil than I would have thought. Wow. Professor even has his extraordinary events here. But he refuses to leave Jade fend for herself.

I love Jade with Professor. They get under each other's skin, but they're a great pair with all they know and can do. They could even, someday in the future, be a great couple. They challenge each other but are great friends and work companions.

This story touches close to home for many people and brings up a heated topic. Slavery. This is not just about the past slaves but also the human trafficking that still happens in the world. There is even a brief touch on what people consider liberty and freedom. Even how some feel about America and immigrants is touched on here. All amazing topics to discuss and think on. This book opens a door to these subjects for people to think on. It's not meant to begin an argument or upset anyone, but hopefully to open eyes and ears to bring the subjects in the open so people can understand and work to stop slavery. This was the impression I got from the characters.

We get sections that are detailed in explaining. There are true history pieces used to create the fiction from. I love how the minds of David Wood and Sean Ellis use history to create their stories. It makes the story feel so much more invested for me.

Another hair raising adventure for Jade and Professor. As always, I look forward to more with them.



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Audio Book Review: Blood Codex: A Jake Crowley Adventure

Blood Codex: A Jake Crowley Adventure

By:  David Wood & Alan Baxter

Publish Date:  July 8, 2016, Audiobook Release August 14, 2017

Format:  Audiobook - 8 hrs 32 mins
Narrated By:  Jonathan Waters

Genre:  Thriller, Suspense

Series:  1st in A Jake Crowley Adventure series

Impression:  Blend of adventure, thrilling, and a touch of mythical belief.

Synopsis:
An ancient order.
A deadly conspiracy.
A race against time.

When Jake Crowley rescues Rose Black from assailants on the streets of London, the two find themselves embroiled in a mystery that could cost them their lives. People are dying, and all the victims have one thing in common with Rose: a birthmark in the shape of an eagle.

From beneath the streets of London, to castle dungeons, to the heart of Christendom and beyond, Jake and Rose must race to stay alive as they seek to unlock the secrets of the Blood Codex.

First Sentence:
Leather-armored men with bloodstained hands forced Aella to his knees, raised his arms wide and high, and tied his hands to posts of weathered wood.

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.

The prologue is in a time of warriors and kings of battle. I found I enjoyed Jonathan's narration of this from the first word. He voiced the two strong men with power and emotion that I believed them to be kings. When I started the book, I wondered if I'd listened to Jonathan Waters before as his name looked familiar but I don't think I have. I did enjoy listening to him here. He's someone I'll have to keep an eye out for. I love the different voice tones and personalities he brings to life! Even the teenage boy.

The POV's: Prologue, a king killed by invaders. Danny, Jake, and Rose. Even Margarete and a few others in short clips to show what's happening to others. We get most of the story from our main characters, but to complete the circle and explain things we get a few bonus views. This fills in the story where we need extra information.

I always enjoy adventures for the mystical unknown. This book takes Jake and Rose on an adventure they never thought to go on. They end up searching for the Devil's Bible. I did enjoy the journey. The rush to stay ahead of those looking for Rose. Then learning about the Devil's Bible and what they find. It's not the complete reason why the guys are after Rose, but it does back the reason. It sort of saves Rose's life as well.

I had a few small hiccups in the path. Do they have enough money to go on this adventure? They aren't using their credit cards or bank cards so they aren't tracked by those after Rose. And as for their professions...would they have the money to go traveling? Jake's a retired military man who's now a high school teacher. Rose is a historian at a museum. They seem to have no problems travelling freely though. And then the cell phone... a burner phone that's to have no tracking, and I assumed no connection to them. This is a small thing that feels an inconsistency for me, but I guess they would have downloaded their contacts to it so could call who they needed.

Those two small things aside, I enjoy how all they find and what's looking for them come together to complete each other. The information from two sides is like two pieces of a puzzle that fit together, filling in missing gaps and telling a whole story. Very cool.

Jake Crowley and Rose Black make a great team. And when Jake's friend Cameron joins them, he fits right in. This is a team I could see fighting side by side in the future. They have great contacts between them that can help find information they may need, Cameron filling these shoes as well as ready for a fight. Jake and Rose seem fearless and headstrong when it comes to a path they are to follow. They both fight for their lives, and seem to enjoy the touch of adrenaline that comes from the adventure.

I did enjoy the book and the adventure. I think there could be more to come with our characters (plus, it says book 1). I think there was a small thing with the "burner" cell phones they picked up that could lead to more in the future with the way this ended.

All in all, it was an enjoyable adventure. Always fun to hear the blend of adventure, thrilling, and a touch of mythical.



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Audio Book Review: Primordial

Primordial

By:  David Wood & Alan Baxter

Publish Date:  February 3, 2017, Audiobook Release September 8, 2017

Format:  Audiobook - 8 hrs 15 mins
Narrated By:  Jeffrey Kafer

Genre:  Science Fiction

Series:  Stand alone

Impression:  A blend of Jaws and thriller mystery with history and legend links.

Synopsis:
Sometimes, the legends are true. When eccentric billionaire, Ellis Holloway, hires renegade marine biologist, Sam Aston, to investigate the legend of a monster in a remote Finnish lake, Aston envisions an easy paycheck and a chance to clear his gambling debts. But he gets much more. There is something terrible living beneath the dark waters of Lake Kaarme and it is hungry. As the death toll mounts, Aston faces superstitious locals, a power-hungry police chief, and a benefactor's descent into madness as he races to find the legendary beast of the lake.

First Sentence:
"Come on. Show yourself, my darling." Steven Sweeney crouched in front of the monitor and gazed at the tiny screen displaying the feed from his underwater camera.

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.

Sam Aston knows his stuff when it comes to marine biology, however it doesn't pay the best and he has severe debts he's racked up with unpleasant people. Sam has no choice but to take the high paying job offer from Ellis Holloway when the thugs come to collect his over due debt. Thinking it's all a farce with a cryptozoologist, exaggerate show host, and legends of mythical creatures, Sam just wants to get done and take his money as fast as he can so his biological credit isn't ruined. Sam's eyes are opened with the evidence they find of a hidden creature of the sea.

When I see the name David Wood on a book for review, I jump to get it. I've really enjoyed his blend of history and fantasy with action and adventure. Then the wondrous beast added in. Yes, thank you! There's just enough to believe in the tales, yet holds my attention with details and fighting or running. I know I'm in for an exciting adventure that will get my brain thinking. This book doesn't let me down.

Jeffrey is a voice I could listen to all day. He has a matter of fact, dry humor feel to his voice when he narrates the stories. In this story, he gets to add slight accents to the characters. They are not strong, but just a hint. If you listen closely you'll hear them. One is Australian, another is Boston style. I like that they are hints in the voice as the narration is still clear to understand. As always Jeffrey delivers another clean and enjoyable audio book.

One thing about the writing here, there is no down time. We get all the important moments - offered job, why take, and while investigating. There is no need to waste time on the plane getting here, so we get to focus on what's happening. I love that every moment written here is a scene we need. The story is written as a thriller. We get the creepy, sneaking feeling before the few deaths we read happen.

Sam feels and voices much of what many people believe, that these things aren't real and there's science to explain all. But when we get talking with the television show host, Joanne Slater, we see that some people don't know if it's real or not. It's neat to think about, but the likelyhood... slim.

This may sound like a normal monster hunting story, but it's all in how it's told. The writing keeps this story with a thriller feel. There's a mystery as people keep disappearing and the beast that's to be present. But there is more to this little village and lake. I was intrigued by the potential of what the beast could be. There is a blend of history and local legends present at this lake and we get to see it all, along with current technology used to flesh it all out. We see and hear examples of the danger throughout the story.

I was hooked on this story. I wanted to know the truth behind it all. The mystery cloaked person and what the beast was. Then, I was snagged on the adrenaline feeling as the story was told. I had to keep listening to see who made it, who didn't, and what would happen next and how!



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Audio Book Review: Buccaneer

Buccaneer

By:  David Wood

Publish Date:  November 10, 2012, Audiobook Release February 12, 2013

Format:  Audiobook - 6 hrs 55 mins
Narrated By:  Jeffrey Kafer

Genre:  Adventure, Suspense, Thriller

Series:  1st in A Dane Maddock Adventure series; 3rd Book ~ Quest, 7th Book ~ Ark

Impression:  A little more personal adventure for Dane, with action.

Synopsis:
For more than two centuries the Oak Island Money Pit has baffled researchers and foiled treasure hunters, and when Dane Maddock and Bones Bonebrake take up the search, they get much more than they bargained for. Danger lies at every turn as they search for a treasure out of legend that dates back to the time of Christ. Ancient wonders, hidden temples, mythical creatures, secret societies, and foes new and old await as Dane and Bones unravel a pirate’s deadly secret in Buccaneer.

First Sentence:
It was a stormy day on the Arabian Sea.

Purchase At:
Amazon  /  Barnes & Nobles  /  Book Depository

Audible

My Thoughts and Summary:
*I was voluntarily provided this review copy audiobook at no charge by the author, publisher and/or narrator.

This is an older audio book for Jeffrey. And I enjoyed it. Jeffrey was free to voice different people with different tones and accents, making them all unique and easy to know who's talking in the story. This is just fun to listen to. Jeffrey's voice feels perfect for Dane and Bones's personalities, along with the crew around them. As always, the audio is seamless and clear.

I think I say it every time I listen to one of these books, I just love the easy sense of humor I get from Dane Maddock, Bones, and all around them. They make me smile and I enjoy their dangerous adventures. Avery even has a wonderful sense of humor, even in a time of stress. lol.

Our guys meet Avery for the first time in this book. She seems to fit in perfectly. lol. And there's a reason for that. We learn it here. I love Angel, Bone's sister. She's one kick butt kind of woman, just as tough as we would expect. She gets into the rough and tough fights just like the boys. Oh and this woman can hold her own in those fights.

I enjoyed learning a bit more about Dane's parents in this book. The project we are on is connected to his father's research. Sadly, his parents were killed in an auto accident, but we see their impact on Dane which gives us a feel for them.

We also see the beginnings of other groups that could be trouble for Dane and Bones after this book, and I know it will be. Also that Dane and crew will work with in the future.

What they find! Oh my! Then my minds wheels start turning. How did something like that come into existence so many years ago? In a time it shouldn't be! Very interesting. I can't tell you what they find as it'll take the wow away from you. You just have to read or listen to find out.

I enjoy the writing as we focus on the current job/project that we are on. There is always enough to bring us to want more as well, to solve all the mysteries behind the ages old treasures. And there are more books to do just that. Though, there is two places where the wrong character was named, someone who wasn't even there at that moment. But, I'll over look that with the love I have for these characters and thrilling stories. (Heck, this audio is from 2012, so the book could have been re-edited to fix it since then, in case you read it.)

I find I get anxious when listening to these stories. I want to sit and listen to it all on a fast speed so I can get the whole story right now! lol. I don't. I listen at regular speed to savior all that's said and the performance by Jeffrey.


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Audio Book Review: Treasure of the Dead

Treasure of the Dead

By:  David Wood & Rick Chesler

Publish Date:  March 14, 2016, Audiobook Release January 26, 2017

Format:  Audiobook - 4 hrs 42 mins
Narrated By:  Jeffrey Kafer

Genre:  Thriller

Series:  9th in Dane Maddock Origins series; Book 7 ~ Amber

Impression:  The boys get their feet wet at their own treasure hunting.

Synopsis:
Maddock and Bones set off on their first treasure hunting adventure!

1715- Blown far off course, their treasure-laden ship sinking, a crew of Spanish sailors struggles ashore, only to encounter a horror out of their worst nightmares.

First Sentence:
Alonso Sanchez paced the deck of the El Senor San Miguel.

Purchase At:
Amazon  /  Barnes & Nobles (ebook or Print) /  Book Depository

Audible

My Thoughts and Summary:
*I was given this review copy audiobook at my request and have voluntarily left this review.

In 1715 a ship full of treasure has been pushed off course with terrible storms. El Senor San Miguel runs onto land. When one of the crew makes land, he is horrified by what he finds limping on the beach.

Bones agrees to go on treasure hunting in the vast ocean with Maddock and has the first spot in mind. Bones had received a call from a dear friend of his when she received information from a cousin that's been found dead, mauled by animals. Maddock and Bones will quickly learn that trouble follows them whether in the service or on their own hunting treasure.

Jeffrey has voiced all the stories in this world with these men, and he is with us again. Jeffrey has become the voice of Maddock and Bones and all friends they interact with. The best part, I feel as the personality and tone given to Maddock and Bones fit the people written in words. For some reason Bones feels natural, but he's probably my favorite of the two. lol. Jeffrey never gives away a feel that something is coming, he adds just enough tension to the story by keeping in the here and now. This leaves me feeling comfortable with the characters but knowing with the writing of David and Rick that something is coming, I'm just waiting for it.

In the beginning we see a glimpse of a different side of Maddock and Bones. They left SEAL just months ago, and both are struggling adjusting to civilian life. Bones seems to be worse in a different way than Maddock, needing a release for pent up frustration. I like seeing them struggle after their life has been SEAL for so long. The life they lived is completely different than how they are to live now. Maddock shows up to ask Bones to help on a treasure hunting expedition, something they know how to do but less dangerous for their lives. These two never lose their great humor that makes me smile even in the tough times.

This is a slower start in the way of action for Maddock and Bones. But the authors strategically write in sections, as they are known for, with other characters. The events of the other characters then lead to our guys arriving, and things don't go as smoothly as it should, which could be to Bones and Maddock's liking. Well, maybe just Bones. They do enjoy their danger.

We see Bones flirting, as usual but with someone that he has some past with. The friend that contacted Bones is/was more than a simple friend. She and Bones have history together.

I always enjoy getting to spend any hour with Maddock and Bones. Their banter always brings a smile to my face while their adventures make my heart race. I enjoy the twist to the history that's created, a twist with a slight paranormal feel to it, as we go on the expedition not knowing what we'll walk into yet knowing it's going to result in danger and action.

This book is shorter in length, as audio it's just shy of 5 hours. The authors keep the story to the point of action, where we learn details of what we are looking for which leads eventually to troubles for our guys. We don't waste time getting from one point to the next as long as there is nothing extraordinary happening.

When things start to come out in the end, it all happens fast. Maybe a bit to fast, but that's the way it washes out in the end - all at once.


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Audio Book Review: Quest

Quest

By:  David Wood

Publish Date:  July 4, 2011, Audiobook Release November 2, 2011

Format:  Audiobook - 7 hrs 37 mins
Narrated By:  Jeffrey Kafer

Genre:  Urban Fantasy

Series:  3rd A Dane Maddock Adventure novel: 7th Book ~ Ark

Impression:  Fun, adventurous trek through current world, then the jungle.

Synopsis:
146 B.C.- Escaping just ahead of the invading Roman legions, a Carthaginian soldier carries an ancient secret to places unknown.

1925- Percy Fawcett launches his final expedition into the Amazon, but what is his true objective?

Dane Maddock is back. Deep in the Amazon, a university group encounters a horror beyond their darkest nightmares and vanishes without a trace. Called upon to undertake a daring rescue mission, Dane and Bones must trace the true path of Percy Fawcett's final expedition, but the secret that lies at the end of the search might be even deadlier than the enemies who seek it. From the streets of London, to remote islands in the Atlantic, to the deadly jungles of the Amazon, Dane and Bones must penetrate a secret lost to history, on their deadliest Quest.

First Sentence:
"Why have you summoned me?

Purchase At:
Amazon  /  Barnes & Nobles  /  Book Depository

Audible

My Thoughts and Summary:
*This audiobook was provided by the author, narrator, or publisher at no cost in exchange for an unbiased review courtesy of AudiobookBlast dot com, at my request.

Given a message from her boyfriend who's two months lost in the jungle with a college trip, Kaylin's put in danger when she receives a package he left behind in hopes that she'll find him. Kaylin has one person she can turn to for help of this magnitude, her ex-boyfriend Dane Maddock. Dane and Bones help Kaylin find her boyfriend, and along the way could find the lost city that Percy Fawcett was searching for when he disappeared.

This is an older audio book done by Jeffrey, and I really enjoyed it! It felt like he had lots of emotion and thought in each word he spoke. The characters feel different as he speaks them, even works to vocalize them slightly different too. I love that he's got a sound to a voice on the phone or head set too. I really enjoyed this performance! This is a wonderful example of what I love to hear when listening to audiobooks.

David Wood is another author to use a Prologue to draw me into the story. He gives me just enough to understand and know what's happening but to leave me wondering what they want. Wow. After that, I need to know what needed to be taken away then what Fawcett was looking for! David works in the prologue through out the story, and into the ending. We learn the story of those of old in the prologue. The hints they left drive us along to get to the end. Well done.

I do so enjoy Dane Maddock and Bones Bonebreak's banter and fun comments. They do make me smile. They are a duo I do enjoy listening to. Even with the rest of the crew that works with them on dives, they all fit together so well. Great team! Maddock and Bones don't show fear, they react. But I guess that's the SEAL in them. They are smart and figure out historical clues along with have the bronze to fight when needed. Such a great balance with them together and individually.

We do get sections that is from the ScanGen as well. The owner and his lead employees. But in doing this we meet one of the new characters we'll deal with in the future. This is where we first meet Tam. And she tries to recruit Maddock and Bones on her team to stop the Dominion. Tam really makes an impression in this book. She's one strong woman.

I really enjoy these adventures for the mystery and action, but also for the characters I get to meet. I want to get all the books with these characters, but also set in this world. I'm hooked!



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Audio Book Review: Ark

Ark

By:  David Wood

Publish Date:  August 11, 2015, Audiobook Release August 26, 2016

Format:  Audiobook - 6 hrs 48 mins
Narrated By:  Jeffrey Kafer

Genre:  Suspense, Thriller, Adventure

Series:  7th in A Dane Maddock Adventure series

First Impression:  Adventure, mystical, and dangerous. Loved the story created of Noah's Ark.

Synopsis:
A Native American artifact points the way to one of the greatest legends in history!

Archaeologist Dima Zafrani receives a mysterious package containing fragments of an unknown text that proves the existence of the lost Book of Noah. Pursued by a shadow organization known only as The Trident, Dima crosses paths with former Navy SEALs turned treasure hunters Dane Maddock and Bones Bonebrake. Can the three find the legendary Noah Stones before the Trident can harness their power?

Join Dane and Bones on another action-packed adventure as they set off on a quest for the Ark!

First Sentence:
The sea was angry.

Purchase At:
Amazon  /  Barnes & Nobles  /  Book Depository

Audible

My Thoughts and Summary:
*This audiobook was provided by the author, narrator, or publisher at no cost in exchange for an unbiased review courtesy of AudiobookBlast dot com, at my request.

Bones and Maddock return home to find Grandfather Samuel Bonebreak being questioned by two men in the middle of the living room, and it doesn't look to be kind. Samuel's never seen these men, but knows what they were looking for. The family treasure. The family treasure leads to the stone used to talk to animals, and a tie to Noah's ark where the animals were lead on the ship.

Jeffrey Kafer excels again at his narration of these characters. Jeffrey never lets me down when I listen to his works. The characters are not as much voiced differently in tone and timber but in personality in their voices. There are a few distinctive differences voiced, yes, but most comes through in who the characters are and how they would speak with emotion. This has become so easy to differentiate which character is which in listening. I do enjoy Jeffrey's voice as narrator though. I could listen to him all day.

David Wood uses descriptions that make it easy for me to visualize the scenes. The descriptions of the swelling, crashing waves of sea in the prologue makes it easy to see them. And there are many details like this throughout the book.

I'm thrilled this story centers around Bones and his family. We get to meet his family and see a legend from his family. Cherokee. Bones is an individual man, and I love him this way. So, I really enjoy Bones as a character. And I think I might be jealous of Dima. lol.

I so enjoy Bones and Maddock's interactions. They work well together, almost like they know what the other one will do. They trust each other in the most dangerous moments. And they have a humor between them that makes me smile, and even breaks up the dire moments a bit to keep the reader light hearted and going.

I find the connections of different histories and written history and mythology to be the gripping part of the story. The way Bones' family treasure leads to Noah and the ark then even another step even further is mesmerizing. I even pause when we get to these realizations to think on what we've crossed and that it all leads to this point. It does! I can totally see the line to this point with what we've learned. David has written the direction of events and the book to back the conclusions with great work. I'm amazed at this and enjoy it.

This book can very well be read/listened on it's own. I have listened to a few with these characters and of who them mention, but that doesn't impact the story in the least. I do, however, want to listen to ALL the stories in this world after getting the impression of past missions as I really enjoy the characters interactions and friendships. There are many different divisions of groups that are allies or enemies (in a sense) and would love to see all interact.

I will be looking for all sorts of books in this world!



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

Audio Book Review: Amber

Amber

By:  David Wood & Rick Chesler

Publish Date:  July 6, 2015, Audiobook April 22, 2016

Format:  Audiobook - 5 hrs 33 mins
Narrated By:  Jeffery Kafer

Genre:  Mystery Thriller

Series:  7th in The Dane and Bones Origins series

Impression:  Maddock's team is the perfect combination to search for the lost Amber room, while Russians are looking too.

Synopsis:
They called it the Eighth Wonder of the World. For more than two hundred years, the world marveled at the fabled Amber Room. And then came the Nazis.

Since the second World War, one of the world's most magnificent lost treasures has lain hidden, and it's up to Navy SEALs Dane Maddock and "Bones" Bonebrake to find it again. Joined by Zara Leopov, their squad must follow the trail of clues from history in a perilous, action-packed race to find a treasure and unlock a deadly secret hidden in AMBER.

First Sentence:
Anguished cries of the dying echoed through the underground chamber.

Purchase At:
Amazon  /  Barnes & Nobles 

Audible


My Thoughts and Summary:
*This audiobook was provided by the author, narrator, or publisher at no cost in exchange for an unbiased review courtesy of AudiobookBoom dot com, at my request.

Maddock is with his Navy SEAL partners, Bones, Professor, and Willis, on a mission to find the Amber room that went missing in the second World War. If they can't retrieve the whole room, at least bring home what they can. Diving the wreckage of a ship thought to have pieces or traces to the lost room, they find more than a clue. The mission turns dangerous as trouble from the Russian's searching the site as well board their boat.

Jeffrey voices these men with ease. Jeffrey has been narrating this whole series and connected series's, from what I've listened to. With Jeffrey narrating and David and Rick's writing, I smile at the small quips from the four men working together. They have a quick sense of humor that keeps their situations light as they work through them, but also makes me smile and keep the story light. Jeffrey's voice brings this to life for me. I have grown fond of listening to Jeffrey. He's always clear and easy to listen to. There is no background disturbances or echos to his voice. Also there is no pops on letters as he speaks. Perfect recording and narration.

From the beginning we see how Maddock, Bones, Professor, and Willis work as a team back when they were SEAL's in training. It's fun to listen to these men banter back and forth. They are a great pairing of friends and have great quick comments for each other, such a youthful feel to them as SEAL's in training.

I found I was thinking I'd enjoy traveling in person with these men on their adventures. Their personalities and humor are ones I'd enjoy. Plus the addition of possible dangers (okay with them, yes danger) they find themselves fighting out of, sounds exciting!

This is book 7, do I need to read in order? I don't think so. We are introduced to the characters at the beginning and see the bond between them all is strong. Then we go on with the adventure they find themselves on in this story, it's not a carry over from previous books, it's a new one. Sure there are drops of other missions together, but that just fuels the want to listen/read the previous books.

I would listen to the story again as I think I'd pick up some details that I missed with all that's packed into these pages. There are a few moments I wasn't 100% sure how the characters knew where to go. But, they are getting information from an Admiral and you don't question your superiors. They did find a journal that helps back the information too. Even as this is a shorter read/listen, it's packed full of details of the mission and action.

I do enjoy these characters and dangerous adventures. I will be looking for more of them!



**If you found my thoughts helpful, please click Yes at Amazon and/or Audible. Thank you.

Audio Book Review: Changeling

Changeling

By:  David Wood & Sean Ellis

Publish Date:  November 12, 2015, Audiobook February 5, 2016

Format:  Audiobook - 8 hrs 3 mins
Narrated By:  Jeffrey Kafer

Genre:  Thriller

Series:  2nd in Jade Ihara series; 1st Book ~ Oracle

Impression:   It never fails, these authors and stories give us an adventure with danger at every turn of solving the mystical mystery.

Synopsis:
You can’t always recognize the face of your enemy.

Two thousand years ago, the legendary mathematical genius Archimedes was poised on the brink of the greatest discovery in human history when his life was brutally snuffed out. His murder has never been explained.

While investigating the strange Paracas skulls—believed by some to be the remains of extraterrestrial explorers—archaeologist Jade Ihara receives an unexpected visit from an old foe seeking her help against entities he calls “Changelings” and their plot to manufacture a false chapter of human history.

Hounded by radical extremists led by Atash Shah—a man bent on becoming the Mahdi prophesied to unite the Islamic world—and haunted by the faceless puppetmasters who secretly control the world, Jade must follow the trail of clues to uncover a deadly truth that has been erased from history.

Can she solve the mystery of Archimedes’ murder, or will she become the next victim of the conspiracy to hide the truth?

First Sentence:
The boy became a man but he never forgot what he had seen that day.

Purchase At:
Amazon  /  Barnes & Nobles 

Audible


My Thoughts and Summary:
*This audiobook was provided by the author, narrator, or publisher at no cost in exchange for an unbiased review courtesy of AudiobookBlast dot com, at my request.

When Jonathan Roche, a past threat to Jade, shows up at the current dig site claiming to have hired her for this site and trusts her, things twist around for Jade and Professor. They learn about Phantom Time in the calendar conversions before Jade's intern turns on them, killing Roche then running. Speaking with Roche on his secrets lands Jade on an extremists hit list. Running for her life, Jade is also determined to figure out what it was that got Roche killed. Seeing through the haze the Changelings have put in place, Jade finds her way to Archimedes's vault that's to hold secret weapons. What it really holds is more, and could be what

Oh! Jeffrey does an Australian accent for Norris. We also get a Scottish accent quick when Jade visits Scotland. There are a few accents that Jeffrey slips into with ease as we listen to the story. I do find his voice ever so easy to listen to. And I find that even though his voice is easy to listen to, it does not distract from the story. The story has my attention and my curiosity. I love that Jeffrey doesn't give hints away as he's narrating.

Jade is on 'the' list of a few different organizations. Jade has now made it to another list calling for her death, because of what she is working on and who she's talked to. Then, when the first attempt on her life is botched it draws the leader into the fray, more determined to see her dead. She must be on to what they want kept secret and that they are after her. But there is more to the drive than both Jade and Atash Shah know. But with the mention of Archimedes vault, Jade's attention is focused and her curiosity piqued. She's determined to find it.

Jade and Professor. I do love them together. They both have strong personalities that could clash, but they work well together too. Jade and Professor know themselves, and accept who they are. They also know how the other is and work with that knowledge. They make a great team! I realized that more so in this book as they separate for a bit, same mission but different avenues to search. However, when they come back together I found I enjoy the spark they have as they work together. They have no problem telling each other the way it is and being honest; in doing so, there is a caring there too. Do I want them as a couple? Hmm. Yes and no. I love what they have now but the potential is there for more. If they keep their personalities and stubbornness, then maybe.

The theory behind it all... There is so much background and support created to endorse the theories. The story is written nice and tight with the information. We reflect on the same pieces a few times, adding to the information each time to see how it actually fits with the story. The story leads to the pieces we need, and the pieces lead the story. I did take my time in listening, noting and reflecting on each piece of information we learn. I was determined to follow their paths.

This book takes the twist on the calendar and all that people have done to make the passing of time easy for us to understand and live by and uses it to create a mystery of old. There is so much we have done to create the calendar we use now that it's a wonderful secret to time, lost time each year. There is also mention of suspension that there are a fake 300 years added to history. This is where some in the world could get upset as what happened in those years would be false and what they believe then... false. People would kill for their beliefs. Add to that a secret vault created and filled, with secret weapons, by Archimedes. It's been hidden and protected all these years by what could be the Changelings, so no one has access to it when it opens every 1,000 years.

The story had me curious as to what was really going on. The authors kept me guessing throughout the book. The Changelings and the vault. What is the ultimate end game for it all? I was no let down in how it all came together. It never fails, these authors and stories give us an adventure with danger at every turn of solving the mystical mystery.



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

Audio Book Review: Destiny

Destiny

By:  David Wood & Sean Ellis

Publish Date:  March 1, 2015, Audiobook December 6, 2015

Format:  Audiobook - 7 hrs 48 mins
Narrated By:  Jeffrey Kafer

Genre:  Adventure

Series:  1st in An Adventure from the Myrmidon Files series

Impression:  A thriller that demands your attention as where it takes you is through adventure and action to find the true ploy.

Synopsis:
On the Texas border, a brutal massacre threatens to ignite a firestorm of violence that will destabilize an already fragile Mexican government and trigger an international crisis that knows no boundaries. The only clue, a cryptic message: The time for Destiny has arrived! Tam Broderick, leader of an elite CIA task force, code-name: Myrmidon, knows that the Dominion—a quasi-religious extremist group—is behind the attacks; now it’s up to her and her team to find out what the Dominion’s true goals are, and stop them dead in their tracks.

From the authors of the bestselling Dane Maddock Adventures and Dane and Bones Origins comes a new series set in the Maddock Universe. Join CIA agent Tamara “Tam” Broderick and her team as they continue their struggle to foil the power of the Dominion. Action, adventure, and thrills abound in The Myrmidon Files!

First Sentence:
The Lieutenant was awake before dawn and ready for the day's activities, which came as no surprise to cavalry scout Emil Holmdahl.

Purchase At:
Amazon  /  Barnes & Nobles 

Audible


My Thoughts and Summary:
*This audiobook was provided by the author, narrator, or publisher at no cost in exchange for an unbiased review courtesy of AudiobookBlast dot com, at my request.

Tam brings the Myrmidons, her special task force, together after receiving a call that the Dominion is believed to be behind the murder of a bus load of college students at the border of Mexico and up to more with a call that was intercepted by the murderers. Mention in the call were clues to get Tam and her Myrmidons into action, 'time for Destiny' and an artifact of Patton's being needed. They venture through a race against Dominion members to find the artifact and figure out the clues to find the powerful information that the Dominion feels will get them what they want.

Jeff has become the voice of action, adventure thrillers for me. But I'm drawn to Jeff as a narrator for these stories because of his style and strong bold voice. He tells the story as he's living through it as the characters. Jeff doesn't give away any clues as to where the story will go while narrating for us. He keeps me wondering with the characters. Jeff doesn't question anything in his tone, unless the character does. Jeff feels as he's the expert the character comes across as. Jeff does slight changes to his voice for each character. Jeffrey did an accent of English spoken by the characters in Mexico. I didn't think anything of it when I came across it as it fit perfect to the story and was clear in understanding the words.

This is a world that is shared with other books, BUT! it is it's own story and characters. There are some connections mentioned but not a lot of time spent on them. In this fashion the authors get us into the world and characters here, along with their story and adventure. No time wasted, thank you.

Wow! David and Sean have created a huge system here. I listened to one book in this world. But this is a different group of people. They share enemies ~ Dominion and Norfolk groups ~ but they have their own assignment. There is a lot of information shared as the story moves forward, on characters and story line. All the information is given, but I feel as I'm missing that one piece of evidence that fits it all together, that's what makes it the mystery and for me to keep listening. I wanted to know what was missing and why, just like the characters. Then we meet a new character, that was what I needed for the light bulb to light. He held the pieces I was wanting. I wanted to know all he had to add to the story and twists that were to come.

I really had no idea where to expect this story to go with the starts as it is. And the story held up to the clues and evidence to drive it to a ploy I never thought would be present. Though sometimes I was curious about the connections but thanks to Stone and a few others we get to see them mapped out. Some of the connections are made fast. I really had to listen and re-listen at times to get all the details. (If you read the story, you may not need to re-read it as you can read slowly to digest what's happening.)

Stone is a mystery all of his own. None of the other team members knows much of him and Tam's not sharing her knowledge. I liked learning about him and the other team members thought on him as we venture through the lands. Stone has a special way of reading the world. It's almost unbelievable and magical, and I like the twist he adds to the story and how he moves things along with what he reads in the information and world.

If you like thrillers that demand your attention as it speeds through adventures to get the evidence and troubles that ensue, this is a book for you. And, from what I've experienced in another book in the same world but different series, all the books in this world are something to read.

Foot chases, car chases, escapes from lock downs and prison, stealing, adventuring, gun shots and fist fights. Oh my! Yes please. And thank you!



If you found this review helpful, please click Yes at Amazon and/or Audible.

Audio Book Review: Oracle

Oracle

By:  David Wood, Sean Ellis

Publish Date:  September 23, 2014, Audiobook October 6, 2015

Format:  Audiobook - 9 hrs 11 mins
Narrated By:  Jeffrey Kafer

Genre:  Paranormal

Series:  1st in Jade Ihara Adventures series

Impression:  Archaeological action adventure with a supernatural twist.

Synopsis:
Sometimes, knowing the future is not enough…. For more than a millennium, the Oracle of Delphi guided kings and conquerors with stunningly accurate visions of the future. But, with the rise of a new God, the Oracle faded from memory. Now, the power of the Oracle is about change the world once more.

While excavating a previously uncharted passage beneath the ancient city of Teotihuacan, archaeologist Jade Ihara makes a startling discovery: enormous stone spheres, arranged to resemble a model of the solar system, slowly orbiting a golden sun. Even more fantastic, when Jade attempts to move one of the spheres, she catches a glimpse of the future…a premonition that will save her life and launch her into a desperate race to unlock the mysterious secret of the oracular orbs. Jade is accompanied by her old friend, former Navy SEAL Pete “Professor” Chapman, and pursued by a relentless secret society intent on burying the secret of the Oracle forever.

Return to the world of the Dane Maddock Adventures in the first book of a thrilling new series, as Jade crosses the globe in pursuit of the secret of the Oracle.

Purchase At:
Amazon  /  Barnes & Nobles

Audible


My Thoughts and Summary:
*This audiobook was provided by the author, narrator, or publisher at no cost in exchange for an unbiased review courtesy of AudiobookBlast dot com, at my request.

Jade Ihara is back at doing what she enjoys, working in her field of expertise on an archaeological dig. None of the craziness that comes with the treasure hunting as she had with her ex, Dane Maddock. However, when the site opens to a mysterious room in a pyramid to find a working solar system, things take a turn. Jade and her friends are now on the run to find and stay alive from the Norfolk Group, a group of people working to remove the supernatural entities from the world to prevent any other disasters from occurring. Jade goes on an expedition to find the missing moon stone from the working solar system, that leads her to think through a few magically touched times of history and where those places happened. Then to the biggest mysterious site of current times. Jade is working hard to find and save the stone surrounded with dark matter, but others will make her have to make a difficult decision.

I've listened to Jeffrey before, and could listen to him speak on going. Jeffrey has something with his voice, tone, that hooks me each time I listen to him. He doesn't do drastic different voices for each character but subtle ones that you get to know as you listen to the story, more with personality expressions for each character. His voice is clear and with pacing that makes the story easy understand and follow.

This story is set in a world created in Dane Maddock Adventures series. I didn't know this when I volunteered to review the book. I saw it was the first in a new series that caught my attention and wanted to read (listen) to it. There is personal and personal business that is addressed at the beginning to tie yet separate this book from the Dane Maddock series. I had no problems picking up with this book and Jade's adventures. Actually, I'm kind of curious about her past with Maddock because we do get glimpses of missions and her live with Maddock, and went looking for those books too.

There is lots of mythical thinking with history and science here. Both are used to bring the characters to their conclusions on where to head next in their search. Things get a bit technical, and I don't understand it 100% all the time, but I get the drift and know what's going on. The characters are specialists in their field, so they do come across that way. But at times it's mind baffling.

There are different groups working in the world that searches for powerful items like what Jade is finding in this story. The Dominion is a dangerous group that Maddock's crew has tangled with. Maddock and his crew joined the Myrmidons to stop the Dominion, and Jade didn't want to join. So she went on her own. Jade and Professor come up against a new group, the Norfolk Group. They are who Jade has to work against in this book, and who are determined to eliminate any and all powerful items from the world to prevent destruction.

We get the story through Jade's eyes, but at times we get to see things through Professor's eyes along with a few other characters. Our main characters we spend much of the book with are Jade, Professor, Paul Dorion, and Hodges. Jade is who the series is focused on. She's a strong woman but has a few things she's still working through personally, and she's doing it. By the end of the book, I feel she's made a huge step in the right direction. Professor, I do enjoy Professor. He's a great companion through the story for Jade. He knows her corks and works with her where others get frustrated with her control. He complements Jade nicely, and I have hopes for the man. Paul Dorion is one that is here because of his scientific knowledge. He is important at the dig site, and important through the story. We grow found of him and start to see him as a great part of the team. Hodges, well Hodges is the eyes on the other side of things.

I found it interesting the way the story takes history and twists it with a touch of science explaining to give it a magical feel, turning the history around to make educated deductions. As I listened to this story I thought that fans of J.F. Penn might enjoy the adrenaline rush of danger as "they" run from different organizations, all wanting the powerful artifacts for different reasons. This is very similar with a bit more science mixed in with the mythical history.