I had ordered the ebook and was waiting to see if it would whispersync for audio, when Hearne offered me a code and I immediately dove in. I absolutely love Luke Daniels’ narration of Hearne’s stories and was excited to listen to both Dawson’s and Wendig’s offerings. At just under eight hours, you’ll want to add this to your audio library.

Canines and Cocktails
by Kevin Hearne, Delilah S. Dawson, Chuck Wendig
Series: Oberon’s Meaty Mysteries #4
Narrator: Luke Daniels, Shana Pennington-Baird, Adam Verner
Length: 7 hours and 55 minutes
Genres: Urban Fantasy
Source: Author, Purchase
Purchase*: Amazon | Audible *affiliate

Rating:
Narration: 5 cups Speed: 1.45x

Snuggle up with three delightful tales of dogs and drinks from the minds of New York Times bestselling authors Delilah S. Dawson, Kevin Hearne, and Chuck Wendig.

Oberon the Irish wolfhound and his Boston terrier buddy, Starbuck, not only witness humans waste perfectly good sausage, but also a sneaky murder committed right before their eyes in THE CHARTREUSE CHANTEUSE by Kevin Hearne. Justice demands that someone pay for both crimes, and together with their Druid, Atticus O’Sullivan, and D.I. Rose Badgely of the Launceston police, they’ll show the dastardly villain they messed with the wrong good dogs.

THE BARTENDER AND THE BEAST introduces the enchanting world of Arcadia Falls, the setting for Delilah S. Dawson’s return to Paranormal Romance. When no-nonsense bartender Cassia King returns to her sleepy hometown in the Georgia mountains to help her sister, she can’t help falling for well-dressed wildlife rehabilitator Riley. But as Cash learns, Arcadia Falls has a secret, and so does the bar’s rescue pit bull, Peach Pit…

In WHISKEY SOUR by Chuck Wendig, It was the end of the world and Harry Campbell wanted a drink. He’s one of the few who remained in Ouray, Colorado, after everything went to hell—and has decided to willfully fall off the wagon and find a way to make a cocktail he once loved, the whiskey sour. His quest to make a drink will take him beyond the borders of Ouray and into the world fallen under the shadow of the now-gone White Mask disease. But, he won’t do it alone—Shepherd Marcy Reyes lends him the courage and pluck of the golden retriever known as Gumball to help him stay alive and stay sane in the process. But Harry’s journey holds a greater, more secret purpose—he has questions that remain unanswered about what the rogue AI called Black Swan did to them all, and he intends to have those answers, even if they change him, and perhaps the world, forever.

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Woot! I love a good anthology, especially if it’s from authors I regularly listen to. All three authors are outstanding and I’ve devoured their novels & series. Oberon’s Meaty Mysteries is a subseries to the Iron Druid Chronicles by Hearne. I love these adventures filled with sausage, gravy and sometimes murder. Look out for squirrels! Dawson’s book is a peek into her new paranormal romance series and I am excited for more. Wendig takes us to dark places and his story is set in the world of the Wanderers, a dystopian science fiction that I high recommend.

• THE CHARTREUSE CHANTEUSE by Kevin Hearne, narrated by Luke Daniels- Fantastic story! When the gang is out for drinks and treats and by treats, I mean tasty sausages on a chartreuse board, things go topsy-turvy with not one but two murders. D.I. Rose Badgely is investigating. When Oberon observes something, it leads Atticus to reveal his own secrets. I had a blast with this one from beginning to end. We even got to see some old friends and catch up. Daniels does a stellar job of capturing Oberon’s enthusiasm, as well as delivering the voices of these beloved characters. 5 cups of coffee.
• THE BARTENDER AND THE BEAST by Delilah S. Dawson narrated by Shana Pennington-Baird. In this paranormal story, Dawson introduces listeners to Arcadia Falls where we meet bartender, Cassia King, her sister and wildlife rehabilitator Riley. We also met the adorable rescue pug, Peach Pit, who spends her evenings on a cushy chair at the bar. Dead bodies and trouble from Cassia’s past made for an intriguing introduction. I am excited to return to this small Georgia town. Pennington-Baird captured Cassia’s spunk and the voice of the other characters making listening my first choice. 4.5 cups of coffee.
• WHISKEY SOUR by Chuck Wendig narrated by Adam Verner. This story takes place in the Wanderers world. We go back to Ouray, Colorado and the events in this story take place after book two, Wayward. Harry Campbell, a recovering alcoholic and the town’s bartender, decides he is going to have a drink and not just any. He wants a Whiskey Sour, but to do that, he’ll need to go beyond the borders of their town and seek the fruit man. This was an interesting story as Harry travels with Gumball, a golden retriever provide by Shepard. As he travels, Harry is also in search of answers about Black Swan and what he did to humanity. This was a dark, thoughtful tale that I enjoyed. Verner did a great job bringing voice to Harry as he contemplated his existence. 4 cups of coffee.

Canines & Cocktails was a fun anthology collection from three of my must read authors. Fans of urban fantasy, paranormal romance and Dystopian science fiction will want to grab their earbuds and listen.

Amazon | Audible

Reading this book contributed to these challenges:

• 2024 Audiobook Challenge

Source

Original source: https://caffeinatedbookreviewer.com/2024/04/canines-and-cocktails-by-kevin-hearne-delilah-s-dawson-chuck-wendig.html

Her Only Hero by Judy Malcolm, set in the bustling heartland of Ohio, intertwines the genres of contemporary romance and suspense to weave a tale that captivates readers. The story follows June Harber, a forensic lab employee at the local police department, as she navigates both professional challenges and personal hesitations. Haunted by past romantic hurts, June’s cautious approach to her growing affection for police officer Patrick Verbeek adds a layer of emotional complexity to the narrative. An unexpected turn of events sees June injured at a crime scene, sparking a series of incidents that suggest she is being targeted. This element of suspense elevates the plot as June and Patrick endeavor to unravel the mystery and prevent further crimes.

The narrative maintains a steady pace, effectively integrating the mystery and suspense elements that kept me engaged and invested in solving the crime alongside the protagonists. Malcolm’s engaging treatment of the investigative process stands out as one of the novel’s strengths. June’s forensic expertise plays a pivotal role in unveiling crucial evidence, showcasing her character’s proficiency, and adding depth to the plot. Although this sometimes overshadows the broader police force, it enhances the narrative by highlighting June’s unique contributions to the investigation.

The romance between June and Patrick is a highlight, evolving organically from friendship to a deeper connection. Their journey to a satisfying conclusion is well-crafted, offering a heartwarming element to the suspenseful plot. The reintroduction of June’s former love interest adds an additional layer to the narrative, offering a nuanced contrast to the blossoming relationship between June and Patrick. This element provides a broader perspective on June’s character journey and relational dynamics. While there are moments in the storyline and character development that invite further exploration, particularly in understanding June’s actions and motivations, these instances add complexity to her character. They invite readers to consider the multifaceted nature of human decisions and relationships, especially as June navigates her past and present emotional experiences. This approach enriches the storyline, offering depth and realism to her character.

Her Only Hero presents an engaging blend of suspense and romance, with a compelling narrative that keeps the reader guessing until the final chapters. Judy Malcolm’s ability to balance romantic development with the thrill of a suspenseful plot makes the book a notable read for those who appreciate this genre.

Pages: 253 | ISBN 978-1-5092-5626-6

Original source: https://literarytitan.com/2024/04/03/her-only-hero/

Don Johnston’s By Means of Peace is an intriguing political fiction novel set in the mid-22nd century. The novel interweaves the lives of Darien, a sci-fi writer facing career challenges, and Marisa, an ambitious politician. Their journey unfolds in an era marked by significant political change, especially following the re-election of a president from an independent political party—an event that raises suspicions.

While the book might initially appear dense to readers less familiar with political narratives, a deeper understanding of contemporary politics enhances the story’s resonance. Johnston skillfully mirrors the current political landscape, projecting a future that feels like a natural extension of today’s world. This approach gradually transforms the novel from a straightforward narrative into a thrilling exploration of potential realities. The story’s power lies in its ability to blur the lines between fiction and reality, sending a chill down the spine of readers who discern the subtleties hidden within its pages.

The book’s strength is undoubtedly in its worldbuilding and the acute observation of current political trends, even hinting at major global events akin to pandemics. The novel takes a focused approach in its character development. While it excels in creating a richly detailed backdrop, the characters are designed primarily to drive the plot forward. This streamlined characterization ensures the narrative progresses smoothly, with interactions that directly contribute to the story unfolding. This approach may appeal to readers who prefer a plot-centric novel, offering a clear, uncluttered path through the complex political landscape Johnston creates. The characters, in their simplicity, provide a stable foundation for the intricate world and the thought-provoking themes the book explores

For those interested in political fiction and speculative narratives, By Means of Peace is a thought-provoking novel. It offers a captivating glimpse into a society shaped by our political decisions today and leaves readers questioning what the future may hold.

Pages: 247 | ASIN : B0CB6ZZZ5H

Original source: https://literarytitan.com/2024/04/03/by-means-of-peace/

Quinn Lamothe’s The Wolves of Orkerion is a riveting journey set in a dynamic, fantasy world. Centered around the young princess Lunaria Druutha, the narrative unfolds in the enchanting realm of Orkerion. Born to a god-king and a troll queen, Lunaria is a character of great determination, poised to carve a distinct path in the legacy of the nine realms. The story gains momentum as Lunaria’s mother, the esteemed High Queen Ithagmir Druutha, faces a formidable uprising, propelling Lunaria into a vortex of conflict and self-discovery. As the continent is engulfed in civil unrest, she encounters the legendary Wolf-Ones and her own kin, the trolls, in a series of conflicts that test her mettle and shape her identity as a warrior.

The novel excels in its harmonious blend of brisk action and imaginative storytelling. Lamothe’s prowess in constructing the world of Orkerion is noteworthy, crafting a landscape rich in cultural and mystical nuances. The well-developed characters add depth to the story’s complex tapestry. Particularly captivating is the juxtaposition of the enigmatic Wolf-Ones with the formidable trolls, a combination that infuses the tale with intrigue and surprise. Lamothe’s narrative style is compelling, drawing readers into the heart of Orkerion’s struggles and triumphs. The author’s attention to detail in world-building is remarkable, with each aspect of Orkerion intricately designed to immerse readers in its vibrant and mystical atmosphere. From the vast landscapes to the societal structures, every element contributes to an expansive and immersive reading experience.

The Wolves of Orkerion is a testament to Lamothe’s skill in blending action and fantasy. It offers an engaging and thoroughly enjoyable story. This vivid and imaginative foray into the fantasy genre is sure to captivate and entertain readers.

Pages: 386 | ASIN : B0CV8P4ZQC

Original source: https://literarytitan.com/2024/04/03/the-wolves-of-orkerion-the-lightning-child-book-1/

Liliana Tommasini’s Octavia Can Do It! introduces us to the enthusiastic Octavia, a young girl determined to bake chocolate chip cookies on her own. The story unfolds in a charming domestic setting, where Octavia, under the watchful eye of her mother, embarks on her culinary quest. However, when her mother is momentarily called away, Octavia seizes the opportunity to advance her baking independently, with the assistance of her brother, Ludovic, and their dog, Oslo. This leads to a series of amusing yet challenging moments in the kitchen, encapsulating the complexities of baking that Octavia initially underestimates.

The narrative of Octavia’s venture into independent baking is both engaging and heartwarming, reflecting a strong sense of family values and togetherness. The theme of trying new things, even when they don’t go as planned, is a valuable lesson for young readers. The involvement of her family, especially the bond between Octavia and her mother, further underscores the significance of shared family experiences and support in learning new skills. Amariah Rauscher’s illustrations, executed in a blend of charcoal pencil and watercolors, add a vibrant and distinctive visual element to the story. The artistic style complements the narrative effectively, enhancing the book’s appeal to its young audience. An interesting aspect of this book is its roots in the author’s personal life, drawing inspiration from her grandchildren, Octavia and Ludovic, who serve as the main characters. This personal connection adds a layer of authenticity to the story. Furthermore, the inclusion of ‘Octavia’s Double Chocolate Cookies’ recipe is a delightful touch, inviting readers to partake in Octavia’s baking adventure.

Octavia Can Do It! is a delightful read for children aged 4-8. It marks Tommasini’s impressive debut in children’s literature, weaving an entertaining and educational tale. The book promises a journey of learning, challenges, and family bonds and is recommended for young audiences.

Pages: 32 | ASIN : B09WPB2PNK

Original source: https://literarytitan.com/2024/04/03/octavia-can-do-it/

Hailey, Let’s Meet Some Fabulous Safari Animals! invites readers on a unique safari adventure in this personalized text designed to appeal to toddlers and beginning readers. What was the inspiration for the set up of this story?

“When I was a kid, I was surrounded by children’s books. My parents read me a wide variety of picture books and I was fascinated by even the simplest illustrations in the books. Now, as an adult, I’m often wondering what is the aspect that many of the children’s books are missing? The inspiration for “Let’s Meet Some Fabulous Safari Animals!” came from the desire to create a unique and educational safari adventure that inspires kids to learn how fascinating different animals are. Making the story personal allows children to see themselves as part of the adventure, making it fun and memorable.”

What is your background and experience in writing, and how did it help you write this series?

“My background in writing children’s books comes from a lifelong love of children’s stories. Growing up surrounded by picture books inspired my creativity and the means of storytelling. Additionally, I’m certain that my experience in writing blog content influenced my ability to present the story in a way that was informative and appealing to a younger audience.”

What is one thing you hope families of beginning readers take away from your story?

“I hope parents and children find the book an interesting introduction to safari animals, but also encouraged feel to read the story together. Learning some facts about animals makes it more fascinating and interesting to parents as well.”

What is the next topic you plan to provide for readers in your customized series?

“The possibilities for the next title as a personalized children’s book are truly endless. I’m always looking for ways to spark children’s curiosity by a simple but engaging story. I’m surely going to continue with some animal related theme. Under the sea adventures, or introducing some rare or generally unknown animals are just a few ideas.”

Author Website

Original source: https://literarytitan.com/2024/04/03/making-the-story-personal/