Absolutely Everything!: A History of Earth, Dinosaurs, Rulers, Robots and Other Things Too Numerous to Mention by Christopher Lloyd and Andy Forshaw (Non-fiction, Audiobook, 10/10E)

1st June 2020, What On Earth Books, 7hrs 30 minutes (approx) Audiobook (also in Hardback), Review copy

Summary from What On Earth Books 

From the author of the bestselling What on Earth Happened? comes a new, highly entertaining 15-chapter narrative history of the world for children and adults alike from the beginning of time to the present day.

AN ARMADILLO the size of a pick-up truck. A 4,000-year-old bowl of noodles. A legendary Chinese Empress said to have invented silk. Bees waggle dancing. Researchers figuring out how ancient Egyptian embalmers really got the brains out of dead people. An African emperor on a gold-laden pilgrimage….

T.REX, King Tut, Confucius, Cleopatra, Genghis Khan, William the Conqueror, Toussaint Louverture, the Wright Brothers, Adolf Hitler, Mahatma Gandhi, Rosa Parks, Malala Yousafzai, Gravity, microbes, wars, epidemics, climate change, conquistadors, slavery, revolutions, religions, railways, computers, artificial intelligence… You get the idea!

Nayu's thoughts

Some of my fondest memories from my childhood were hours spent pouring over the mini range of encyclopedias I had in my home library. I loved all the pictures that accompanied the facts. Obviously an audiobook does not have pictures, but that doesn't detract from the enjoyment of Absolutely Everything! You can see the style of illustrations on the publisher's website and they are good! The narrator did an amazing job of making every single fact interesting. I knew a lot of the info, and was surprised when it poked my memories of when I first learned certain informaiton. For example in one chapter there's talk of a man buried in the ice, with no knowledge of why he as in that location. I rememer being at secondary school, around 11-13, being in history class and having my teacher talk about the famous discovery. I can even vaguely remember the page layout in the text book! I am not blessed with a photographic memory, but it is weird what I can recall from the depths of my mind. 

I feel that having this fact filled book in audiobook format will actually help children who prefer to be active rather than sitting still with a book which is what I loved as a child, to absorb the facts without realising, while being able to keep themselves busy with something else. Audiobooks are great because they can be paused at any moment, and restarted at any moment. It's possible to skip whole chapters, relisten to parts of the listener's mind was wandering. I liked how the history of the world is explored as if it were a clock, leaving our human era in the last few minutes before midnight. That is fascinating, because it's a reminder that while it seems we have been around for centuries (we have), there are millions of years where we didn't exist at all. 

Speaking frankly, even though I am very much a creationist in terms of scientific belief, and I am not ashamed of having that viewpoint, how the earth is considered to be created is explained thoroughly and scientifically. One part of the book grossed me out - I was feeling a bit under the weather at the time, and with a high imagination the enthusiasm and detail of gore at how the ancient civilisations (particularly Egypt) removed organs before embalming and buriel made me a little queasy, which is a sure sign that a lot of children will love that part for being so gross! There are plenty of cultural references which readers will find it easier to understand certain points. Honestly if this doesn't intrigue someone into learning about the hundreds of topics covered, I don't know what would. 

While this could easily stand on it's own as an audiobook, I feel that it could also be given alongside the physical copy, so that reluctant readers can read along while they listen, the pictures can be enjoyed alongside the appropriate pages, and little beats being able to flip through a non-fiction book and read whatever catch's your eye. Chapters can be hopped betwee in the audiobook version, but there are some experiences that only physical books can give. That doesn't affect how great this book is, and I really hope Christopher creates more like it, perhaps focusing deeper into particular points in history. 

Amelia Moore #7 The Lighthouse Secret by Linda Weaver Clarke (Audiobook, Cozy Mystery, 9/10E)

 April 2017, Red Mountain Shadows Publishing, 5 hours 46 minutes, Audiobook, Review copy 

Content: mild romance, domestic violence (off the page)

Summary from Linda's website

Rick Bonito's uncle supposedly drowned five years ago and his body was never found, but something did not seem right about the report. Uncle Antonio was an excellent swimmer. His disappearance seems quite suspicious to Rick's father. He never felt the complete truth had come out about his brother. It is now up to Amelia and Rick to find out the truth about his uncle.

Nayu's thoughts  

I so didn't want to finish reading this because it's the last (for now) in the Amelia Moore series! The only reason it didn't get full marks was because unlike other Amelia adventures there didn't seem to be an instance where Amelia and Rick were in danger. I think this may not have happened just because domestic violence is mentioned in the story (off the page but significant to the story line), so perhaps extra danger would have made it less of a light read than it is. 

Aside from that it's absolutely excellent, as the Amelia stories are. Amelia is pluckier than other, having me smile when she yet again for at least a second book confronts a stalker with courage and some annoyance at being followed. The mystery was close to her heart as it's her husband's relative who is being investigated. I love how sweet the romance is between them – minus the blushes both Amelia and I shared at a certain point. Linda works her magic making the continuing friendship and romance between the two be realistic and offer good advice for readers in similar situations. 

For some unknown reason I adore the concept of lighthouses, how all the rooms are round and it's not like a normal house. However, in real life I'd never go up one because I'm afraid of heights and hate being near water – lighthouses, in case you don't know, are right by the sea with a light at the top to guide ships safely to shore. I think a lot are electric and automatically operated these days, but there are some which are manualy operated. I wished for more of those details in the book but they weren't there.

I was a little surprised that another major life change didn't happen to Amelia by the end of the novel, as that would have been a good spot to end the series, but maybe she will return in the future! I'm looking forward to rereading this charming cozy mystery series, that's for sure! 

Suggested read  

Be sure to check out the rest of the series! Book #1A Bali Mystery by Linda Weaver Clarke (Cozy Mystery 10/10E)

Book #2 The Shamrock Case by Linda Weaver Clarke (Cozy Mystery, Audiobook,10E/10E, short 'n' sweet review) 

Book #3 The Missing Heir by Linda Weaver Clark (Cozy mystery, 10E/10E, Audiobook, short 'n' sweet review)

Book #4 Amelia Moore Detective series #4 The Mysterious Doll by Linda Weaver Clark narrated by Diane Lehman(Cozy mystery, Audiobook, 10E/10E)

Book #5 Amelia Moore Detective #5 Her Lost Love by Linda Weaver Clarke (Cozy Mystery, 10/10E, audiobook, short 'n' sweet review)

Book #6 Amelia Moore #6 Mystery on the Bayou by Linda Weaver Clarke (Cozy Mystery, Audiobook, 10E/10E)

The Summer Seaside Kitchen by Jenny Colgan (Audiobook, Romance, Contemporary, 9/10E, short 'n' sweet review)

February 2017, Hachette Audible, 10 hours 9 minutes long, Audiobook, Review copy

Content: some romance, humour 

Book summary from Audible who I received this copy from

Flora is forced to move back to the tiny island of Mure from the bright lights of London. It's tough: even the beautiful landscapes and bright blue sea can't lift her spirits - she's too busy looking after her dad and her feckless brothers. Then she chances upon her mum's collection of recipes and begins to cook her way through it. As she reconnects with her family and the place she was born, might she also find herself? 

Nayu's thoughts

I had to listen to this twice because the first time I was under the influence of heavy medication and didn't understand the story. When I restarted it all made much more sense, and meant I'm not writing how unlike a Jenny Colgan book it is. Flora doesn't have a major event happen that starts her off on her cooking journey like the other Colgan books I've read, not exactly. I liked the randomness of how she ends up back in the island  community she was born in. She is there because she has to be-if she had a choice she would never have gone because of a mystery incident which is revealed much later in the story. It's interesting how an event is perceived to be a set way by Flora but in actuality not everyone hates her for what happened. 

That's not the only life lesson she learns, but it's a big one. I loved getting to know how live in a small community can be for both actual and perceived outsiders. It was interesting how one outsider had no clue how they were alienating themselves with the community, that by doing a few easy enough acts they would find it easier to gain local support for their project. Flora points this out, as well as unexpectedly enjoying visiting her childhood home which leads to Great Things Happening. I possibly would have liked a bit more focus on the cooking side of the story, but overall it's another fun Jenny read/listen which I will reread/relisten at some point! The narration was perfect with different characters being distinguished from their voices (including what sounds like accurare accents).

Find out more on Jenny's website. 

Amelia Moore #6 Mystery on the Bayou by Linda Weaver Clarke (Cozy Mystery, Audiobook, 10E/10E)

Content: mystery, murder, fugitive, mild romance, humour

Book summary

Amelia Moore, the founder of the Moore Detective Agency, specializes in missing persons. With the help of her partner, Rick Bonito, the business is flourishing. 

While at the beach, Amelia is approached by a woman who is concerned about the son she gave up for adoption 16 years ago. Millie has been having nightmares that make her fear he is in danger. She petitioned the court to view the sealed records but was refused. Will Amelia and Rick be able to convince the courts to help them? If her son is in danger, will they get there in time?

 

Nayu's thoughts

While I do get every book in the series from Linda for review, my high rating isn't that biased. This is a really good cozy mystery series which improves with each installment. I love how Amelia and Rick get their new case while technically on honeymoon - it's typical of cases just find Amelia regardless of what she's doing!

She and Rick have very different approaches to getting information from people which is examined closely in this book. I love how a not so simple hunting down an adoptive teen turns into a fugitive from a murder - I never expect the large twists that are part of what makes this series brilliant. I love finding out new things about Amelia and Rick, how skills I didn't know they had are uncovered, how they grow as husband and wife with the romance remaining at a sweet level. 

They make the perfect team, treading carefully when up aginst the actual law and a moral/ethical law in how they deal with the adopted son. Their compassion shows in the decisions they make. I love how Amelia slowly improves her weapons training, even if she is reluctant to use a gun she realises she needs one because of the line of work she is in. I don't want this series to end! However I think there's just 1 left for now which I hope to review soon. 

Find out more on Linda's website. 

Suggested read

You must read the others in the series (I've reviewed them all...) including #5 Amelia Moore Detective #5 Her Lost Love by Linda Weaver Clarke (Cozy Mystery, 10/10E, audiobook, short 'n' sweet review)

but also look at Linda's foray into Historical Romance, Melinda and the Wild West by Linda Weaver Clark (Historical romance, Audiobook, 10/10E) (I'm very much a fangirl for promoting 2 of her other books!!!

 

Today Will be Different by Maria Semple, narrated by Kathleen Wilhoite (Contemporary, Audiobook, 8/10E, unfinished)

Eleanor really wants life to be different!

September 2016, Orion, 6 hours 28 minutes, Audiobook, Review copy

Content: strong language, adult relations,

 

Book summary from Hachette Audio

Eleanor Flood knows she's a mess. But today will be different. Today she will shower and put on real clothes. She will attend her yoga class after dropping her son, Timby, off at school. She'll see an old friend for lunch. She won't swear. She will initiate sex with her husband, Joe. But before she can put her modest plan into action - life happens.

For today is the day Timby has decided to pretend to be ill to weasel his way into his mother's company. It's also the day surgeon Joe has chosen to tell his receptionist - but not Eleanor - that he's on vacation. And just when it seems that things can't go more awry, a former colleague produces a relic from the past - a graphic memoir with pages telling of family secrets long buried and a sister to whom Eleanor never speaks.

Nayu's thoughts 

Initially I wasn't keen on Eleanor, but I was intrigued by the summary so I kept going. It bothered me how she treated her son. He was fed, had clothes, and the essentials taken care of, but the connection between them didn't feel amazing. So I thought over the book her feelings would improve as the story progressed. They did to a certain extent, and I'm sure they would have carried on but the story veered  off for what seemed like age to the memoir (I think). I couldn't understand what they had to do with  Eleanor (I hadn't remembered the blurb...) I kept waiting for the viewpoint to switch back to her, but it didn't and I had no interest in the characters so I stopped listening.

Audiobooks are harder to fast forward, whereas with a physical or ebook version I could have sen where to skip ahead to get past the part that didn't catch my interest. I really did want to keep going but I couldn't face it. The story itself is well written, I loved Timby and felt sorry for him as he didn't get his mother's attention as much as he liked. The narration was spot on, seamlessly changing character voices. I do recommend checking this out, I will read the ebook version at some point just to know what happened at the end!

Find out more on Maria's website.

 Suggested read

Another good contemporary read is  Family Tree by Susan Wiggs, Narrator Christina Traister (Contemporary Fiction, Romance, 9/10E, Audiobook, short 'n' sweet review)

The Missing by Caroline Eriksson (Thriller, Audiobook, 9/10E)

 January 2017, Brilliance Audio, 6 hours 48 minutes, Audiobook, Review copy from Audible
 

Content strong exotic adult relationships, strong swearing, domestic violence, 

Summary from Audible

An ordinary outing takes Greta, Alex, and four-year-old Smilla across Sweden's mythical Lake Malice to a tiny, isolated island. While father and daughter tramp into the trees, Greta stays behind in the boat, lulled into a reverie by the misty, moody lake...only later to discover that the two haven't returned. Her frantic search proves futile. They've disappeared without a trace. 

Greta struggles to understand their eerie vanishing. She desperately needs to call Alex, to be reassured that Smilla is safe, or contact the police. But now her cell phone is missing too. Back at her cottage, she finds it hidden away under the bedsheets. Had she done that? Or had someone else been in the cottage? But who, and why? As Greta struggles to put the pieces together, she fears that her past has come back to torment her, or she's finally lost her grip on reality...

 

Nayu's thoughts 

First I must state I really loved this book, even if my initial comments may seem to hint the opposite. It was the most confusing read I've ever listened to/read. As someone who can struggle with concentrating because I read when I'm tired (any time of day), following a story with both multiple viewpoints and flashbacks made me thoroughly confused most of the time. I didn't know until the end whether Greta was hallucinating, having a mental breakdown, having cruel tricks played on her. I won't avoid similar reads in the future because I absolutely loved the way tidbits of necessary info was spread throughout the book. It was information that either confirmed my theories or simply confused me some more. 

Greta had a horrific childhood, which she didn't necessarily remember accurately. Her recent present life had it's own horrors which had me almost stop listening for good as they got really unpleasant (that's the exotic relationships part in the content warning). It's not exactly easy to skim past sections I don't like on audiobook as I do with a physical/ebook. But because I was desperate to know if there was a happy ending I kept going until the end, which managed to confuse me because I may have misunderstood what a character said to another (it could mean certain death which Greta miraculously avoided up to the end). 

The narration was first class, I was completely immersed into the insanity of the characters and the plot. I think I will relisten to it eventually, after many fluffy listens-I was a bit disturbed emotionally by the end and had to placate the horrors with super cute gaming, as the topics are very hard hitting and made me sad for those whose live through similar goings on. 

Suggested read 

You can find another brilliant thriller in Dead Silent by Mark Roberts (Thriller, 10/10E, short 'n' sweet review)

Anne of Green Gables by Lucy Maud Montgomery, narrated by Rachel McAdams (Audiobook, Classical Literature, 10/10E)

November 2016, Audible Studios, 9 hours 22 minutes, Audiobook, Review copy from Audible 

Summary from Audible

When aging brother and sister Marilla and Matthew Cuthbert decide to adopt an orphan boy to help with chores around their farm, Green Gables on Prince Edward Island, neither is prepared for the feisty and imaginative redheaded girl who is mistakenly brought to them instead. Nor are they prepared for the way in which she will change their lives. Through a series of hilarious misadventures, Anne's uncompromising spirit makes her a striking presence in the close-knit village, bringing new friendships, first crushes, and, for her foster parents, a love and openness unimaginable before her arrival. 

Nayu's thoughts

I finally read this hilarious and heartwarming classic tale! It's incredible to think this was written in 1908, over 100 years ago, and yet it totally touched my heart. I'm generally not into classical literature. I've tried to like the books I had to read at school, but mostly I didn't. I love the Little Women series, the Laura Ingalls series (Little House on the Prairie), A Little Princess, Heidi, and The Railway Children, but that's it. I can firmly add Anne of Green Gables to that list! 

I couldn't believe how hilarious Anne was. The narrator's voice reminded me of Anna in Frozen, as did how much Anne could talk and her fanciful thinking. Her melodrama did remind me of Amy in Little Women, but overall Anne is a unique character who I gave up anime time just to listen to her exploits. I liked her that much. She is constantly talking, adding drama to non-dramatic events which does drive her adopted parents a little mad, but while her adopted mother slash Aunt rarely shows her amusement, Anne's mannerisms bring lots of love and light to her new home. 

I knew that Anne was firm friends with Diana before I read the book, which made me curious as to how the two became best friends when an incident split the two up and I couldn't see how they would get back together. You know the times in life where accidents happen which aren't the person involved's fault, yet they get the blame? Those happen to Anne a lot, and were highly amusing to hear about. Anne's love of melodrama does mean her sincerity is sometimes not seen by those she is apologising to, at least not the first time round. Life is never dull with Anne. 

I have to say I preferred the earlier parts of the book when Anne was still a child and getting into an insane amount of scrapes: the later part of the book got a bit more serious, and there was less mischief which I heartily missed. You'll need tissues, that's all I'll say about it, and Anne has to grow up fast. She was 16 or so by the end, so in our day still a teen but back then 16 was classed as an adult which is why Anne has to make a few personal sacrifices when life circumstances change. 

I don't yet know if the sequel is in audiobook form (I haven't looked), and because of how I viewed the end of the book it wouldn't get to the top of my wishlist anytime soon, but I do hope to find out what happens next to Anne. I have a suspicion over who she may marry (if she marries), and would like to see if I'm right. I fully recommend giving Anne's tale a go – I promise you won't regret it if you like humour and adventure!

Suggested read

I've reviewed one of the other classic children's reads I mentioned in this review so check out Alma Children's Classics: The Railway Children by E. Nesbit and Peter Bailey (Children's, 9 years +, 10E/10E, short 'n' sweet review)

The Food of Love by Amanda Prowse, narrated by Amanda Prowse (Contemporary, Audiobook, 10E/10E)

 December 2016, Lake Union Publishing, 10 hours & 35 minutes, Audiobook, Review copy from Audible 

Content:  severe anorexia issues, occasional bad language (I think, can't quite remember), very sweet romance 

Summary from Audible

A loving mother. A perfect family. A shock wave that could shatter everything.

Freya Braithwaite knows she is lucky. Nineteen years of marriage to a man who still warms her soul and two beautiful teenage daughters to show for it: confident Charlotte and thoughtful Lexi. Her home is filled with love and laughter. 

But when Lexi's struggles with weight take control of her life, everything Freya once took for granted falls apart, leaving the whole family with a sense of helplessness that can only be confronted with understanding, unity and, above all, love. 

Nayu's thoughts

 Until I wrote this review I hadn't realised that Amanda was the narrator, which is really cool because she knows exactly how each voice should be! & the voices work really well. Shortly after finishing this book it was temporarily unavailable on Audible, who I'm reviewing it for. It may be because closer to the end there were several parts which hadn't been edited out, where Amanda made a mistake in the narration and then repeated herself. I personally didn't mind this, one of the unintended out-takes was hilarious, and answered a question I'd had as to how audiobooks in general are recorded. Thankfully you can now purchase it! 

This book is sheer brilliance. I adore family centred reads, which this definitely is. How Lexi's anorexia is discovered had me in tears. Freya goes into a lot of denial which drives her husband potty (at one point I thought they'd split up because of their differing views about Lexi). The lengths Lexi goes to avoid eating are so sad to read, knowing that many people in real life suffer similarly. What is most apparent is the bonds of love between all the family members. No matter how they feel about each individual situation, even when they are extremely mad at each other, they are linked through family love, and do what needs doing rather than what they want to do when times are tough. 

There is a lot of discord, especially when Freya is trying to pretend Lexi is getting past the anorexia. I sighed a lot when Freya lived in lala land (aka denial), but as both the family and myself were shocked with more revelations about the seriousness of Lexi's condition, Freya and reality met up. It was interesting that Freya knew she was too close to Freya to take difficult decisions, which made the medical and psychological help provided by the medical team very welcome, as some things were taken out of their hands. 

There was a very good depiction as to how anorexia affects siblings: poor Charlotte got forgotten about a lot while Lexi was the centre of their parents' interests. She had to skip out on going to events, especially when new disasters cropped up. Naturally Charlotte got a little bitter about it, but she was able to work though that in a sweet way that made me cry. 

This is an extremely shocking read, I think it's true-to-life too, and I had to take a few breaks in listening to it because it got a bit too hard at times, but that's a personal issue I have. I take a lot of things to heart, which is why I don't read lots of books like this close together. I love it, and I'm already looking forward to relistening to it! 

Find out more on Amanda's website.

Suggested read 

For another read that deals with eating issues check out Nothing Tastes As Good by Claire Hennessy (Young Adult, 9/10E, short and sweet review) 

True Happiness by Linda Weaver Clark (Non-Fiction, 10/10E)

 July 2016, Red Mountain Shadows Publishing, 47 pages, Audiobook, Review copy 

Book Summary

Everyone is seeking for true happiness in their lives. It’s the most sought-after subject on earth. To be truly happy is a great mystery to many, as they search for joy in everyday life

 

Nayu's thoughts

In this concise yet thought provoking read Linda explores where happiness can be found, which is in more things than you may think. No one can be 100% happy every day. A lot of what Linda said rang true from both my own experience and other books and articles I've read about the subject. I liked how each chapter examined a different area, using both Linda's own experiences and quotes from historical figures. I got to know a lot about Linda in the process which was nice to understand her better. 

There is an emphasis on religion, but not in a preachy way, and if anything made me think about the Islamic view of the topic. Linda shows that reliion/belief can often be a wonderful pillar in learning how to cope with the often unpredictable life. The chapters are fairly short, which makes it feel more like an introduction to the subject of happiness, but one you absolutely must read for Linda's wisdom and encouragement. 

Find out more on Linda's website. 

Suggested read

I'm totally biased in saying check out Linda's other books which include the Amelia Moore series: the latest one I've reviewed is book #4 The Missing Doll (Cozy Mystery, Audiobook, 10E/10E)

and her historical fiction which includes Melinda and the Wild West (Historical romance, 10/10E, Audiobook) 

Melinda and the Wild West by Linda Weaver Clark (Historical romance, Audiobook, 10/10E)

  July 2016, Red Mountain Shadows Publishing, 6 hours and 3 minutes, Audiobook, Review copy 

Content: sweet adult romance, lots of humour 

Book summary

In 1896, Melinda Gamble, a very elegant, very naïve young woman from Boston, decides to give up her life of monotonous comfort for the turbulent uncertainty of the still untamed Wild West. Driven by her intense desire to make a difference in the world, Melinda takes a job as a schoolteacher in the small town of Paris, Idaho, where she comes face-to-face with a frightening bank robber, a vicious grizzly bear, and an intense blizzard that leaves her clinging to her life. But it is a ruggedly handsome and very mysterious stranger who challenges Melinda with the one thing for which she was least prepared: love

Nayu's thoughts

This is a new style of writing for Linda which is as good as her other work! I'm biased because I know the author, but this really is a fun read. It reminded me in the style of Amish romances that I read, minus Melinda not being Amish. There were still plenty of good morals, manners, and a lot of spunk! Melinda isn't too afraid of taking risks where she thinks they are worth any falling out. I loved seeing her gain the children's interests, dealing with the mischievous pranks that happened from time to time, and at times more importantly dealing with their parents. Therein lies the romance part! 

Only Melinda would attempt to go out in a blizzard, and put herself at risk from frostbite, but thankfully she is found by one of her students' father, who takes her in and keeps her safe until the storm blows over. This was a sweet part of the book, because Melinda is treated by the girl's father with sincerity and modesty. Her student is delighted to have Melinda, as she is without a mother, and there's a fair amount of regret when the snow storm is over. I promise it has a happy ending! I loved all the characters, there's a real sense of community (which I love about the Amish books I read), and Melinda is a bit like me in spirit. I hope there's a book 2! 

Find out more on Linda's website.  

Suggested read

Be sure to check out Linda's other books including the Amelia Moore Cozy Mystery series which starts with  A Bali Mystery (10/10E, Audiobook review)

 

Two by Two by Nicholas Sparks , Narrator Ari Fliakos (Romance, Contemporary fiction, Audiobook, 10/10E, short 'n' sweet review)

  October 2016, Hachette Audio, 14 hours and 57 minutes, Audiobook, Review copy from Audible

Content: family life, some adult romance, tissues needed

Summary from Audible

At 32, Russell Green has it all: a loving family, a successful career and a beautiful house. But underneath his seemingly perfect life, cracks are beginning to appear...and no one is more surprised than Russ when the life he took for granted is turned upside down. 

Finding himself single-handedly caring for his young daughter, London, whilst trying to launch his own business, the only thing Russ knows is that he must shelter London from the consequences of these changes. 

Then a chance encounter with an old flame tempts him to take a chance on love again, and with the support of his family, Russ finally comes to understand the true nature of unconditional love.

Nayu's thoughts    

My first book by Nicholas and it's awesome! I'd heard of him through a friend who loves his books, so when it came up on Audible's monthly review list email that I get I thought I'd have a listen. I wasn't disappointed, but I didn't realise I'd be bawling my eyes out at the end through something tragic! I told another friend who asked why on earth I'd read his books (she knows how upset I can get over sad topics in books) because his books always have a mega twist at the end that leaves you a bit wrung out. 

It was a beautiful tale about Russell first becoming a father, then due to partially circumstancial separation with his wife, becomes a single dad. It's really tough on him, as it is for any single parent. He learns he can't rely on his family in some respects as much as he naievely hoped to constantly babysit his adorable girl while he works. He has a lot of hurdles, some he stumbles over, but thanks to his close relationship with his sister and a reconnected friendship with a woman he knew in the past he has enough support to get through the tough times. 

It got a bit daunting when the separation became an official thing, and it looked like he might lose custody of his daughter, as the two were close (no matter what his wife's lawyer said) and I was heartbroken by the thought of the two being separated. What got insinuated at one point had me fuming and feeling sick for Russell, as the implications were horrendous. As for the title, well it makes sense due to music and a children's book. 

The narration was spot on, and the only thing which bugged me as inappropriate was the random music parts. One part was entirely relevant, but the rest were just annoying and took me out of the atmosphere of the story a little. I hope to read more books by Nicholas in the future, although least now I'll be armed with a box of tissues before I read it!

Find out more on Nicholas's website. 

Bone by Bone by Sanjida Jay, Narrator Gillian Burke (Thriller, Audiobook, 8/10E unfinished, short 'n' sweet review)

 October 2016, Audible Studios, 9 hours & 7 minutes, Audiobook, Review copy from Audible

Summary from Audible 

Laura loves her daughter more than anything in the world. But nine-year-old Autumn is being bullied. Laura feels helpless. When Autumn fails to return home from school one day, Laura goes looking for her. She finds a crowd of older children taunting her little girl.

In the heat of the moment, Laura makes a terrible choice. A choice that will have devastating consequences for her and her daughter.

Nayu's thoughts

I was really excited about this book because I love stories that focus on a mother taking care of her child. Autumn getting bullied had me certain there would be tough times ahead, and it would be really interesting. Unfortunately I didn't get past the first chapter. The prologue ruined the entire story for me. I can't say what happens because that would be a big spoiler. Let's just say that what happens made me disinterested in reading the rest of the book. 

I know some readers would want to find out how the prologue happened, and part of me was curious but knowing what happens by the end of the story before I've even begun is a real turn off. I honestly tried to get past chapter 1, as the writing is good and I was on the edge of my seat, but I forever had the prologue in my head which dramatically reduced my interest in the story. I guess I'd recommend it to read but maybe skip the prologue until the end, which I realise defeats the point that Sanjida was making for the story, but it's not a formula that works for me. The narration was great though!

Family Tree by Susan Wiggs, Narrator Christina Traister (Contemporary Fiction, Romance, 9/10E, Audiobook, short 'n' sweet review)

July 2016, HarperCollins, 12 hours & 14 minutes, Audiobook, Review copy from Audible

Summary from Audible UK

 Annie Rush seems to have it all - a handsome husband and their fabulous life in Manhattan. But all of that is snatched away when she is involved in a life-changing accident. Awakening from a coma a year later, Annie finds that the life she knew has crumbled away. In the throes of grief, Annie grasps her new reality - she has to start over from scratch, which means heading home. Annie couldn't wait to escape the small town where she grew up, but now she finds herself warming to the close-knit community and its homespun values. There's also a face from the distant past - Donovan Lynch - and all the reasons she's never quite forgotten him come flooding back. Annie expects to pull herself together and return to the city, but fate has other plans...

Nayu's thoughts

I felt sorry for Annie prior to the accident causing a year long coma, and very sorry after. It was so tough on her to not remember things, to have to relearn how to move her body, to get used to the initial high fatigue which is hard because she was previously a very active person. Her evil ex becomes even evil-er (no such word but who cares), which made me feel even sorrier for Annie. Annie isn't one to mope (much), she works as hard as she can to find her feet following her coma. Thankfully she does have the support of her family, which in itself is a bit of a surprise because there were some issues with her father prior to the coma, so she's got something extra to deal with on top of everything else. 

I did cry a few times because there are moments when life overwhelms Annie. She rekindles friendship with someone from the past who could play a big part in her future. She learns the truth behind her previous job in the food cooking show business, which is cruel, and reignites her passion for food (once she's allowed in the kitchen), which is an outlet for any frustrations and her family get to try all the yummy food she creates. 

Occasionally I found the plot dragged, but this is only occasional, and I must stress I listened to this while I was tired (which is all the time) so it's probably a case of me being impatient due to being tired. Definitely going to relisten to it in the future! 

Find out more on Susan's website. 

Amelia Moore Detective series #4 The Mysterious Doll by Linda Weaver Clark narrated by Diane Lehman(Cozy mystery, Audiobook, 10E/10E)

June 2016, Red Mountain Shadows Publishing, 5 hours and 10 minutes, Audiobook, Review copy

Summary from Audible

 Amelia Moore, the founder of the Moore Detective Agency, specializes in missing persons. Her cases have taken her to some very interesting places and put her in some dangerous situations, but she always solves the case. With the help of her partner, Rick Bonito, the business is flourishing. 

Pauline Jones is confused why her boyfriend took off without telling a soul where he was going. But that isn't all. Sam Whitaker is accused of stealing a valuable porcelain doll from the museum. His disappearance makes him look guilty, but Pauline is convinced he is innocent. When Amelia finds Sam, she realizes they need to prove his innocence. Where is the antique doll and who has taken it?

Nayu's thoughts 

Apologies for reviewing this out of order: despite writing the review it got skipped out from being added to my review list. Another superb mystery for Amelia to solve aongside her partner in all sense of the word Rick It makes perfect sense for Amelia to be in a relationship with him, and that added layer of trust and intuition helps them both out on this missing doll mystery. The circumstances the doll is stolen under puzzled me greatly, and while I had a vague idea about the doll itself which I was partially correct on, the rest left me clueless, until they were slowly woven into the story in the magical way that every book from Linda is. 

I loved the added danger and intrigue from the FBI, who I had a false theory about, since their presence meant Amelia & Rick had to up their game, pushing their detecting skills to their limit. While occasionally being romantically involved hampers the case, Amelia is able to protect herself better when she learns to shoot and is allowed carry a gun. It was sweet how she finally came around using one, and she conceals it in a way that's useful to her. (I realise some readers may have different views on guns so I'd like to make clear this is just my opinion)

I liked how Amelia struggled internally, knowing that Rick wanted to marry her, and only through the new characters within the story is Amelia able to work out her feelings on the issue. I was amazed at what happened between Amelia and her local policeman-it certainly widens options for future cases, and that's all I can say on the matter! There is plenty of humour with a nice balance of tension and danger too, a perfect blend for this cozy read that will definitely get a relisten! Diane has each character's voice down perfectly, and makes it such a great listen.

Find out more on Linda's website. 

Suggested read/listen

Be sure to check out the other books in the series including #5 Amelia Moore Detective #5 Her Lost Love by Linda Weaver Clarke (Cozy Mystery, 10/10E, audiobook, short 'n' sweet review)

 

The Canal Boat Cafe by Cressida McLaughlin, narrated by Jessica Ball (Audiobook, Contemporary, Romance, 10/10E, short 'n' sweet review)

Gorgeous front and back cover which doesn't quite get seen in the audiobook version

Until this review I hadn't realised the individual novellas would look like this when put together! Sorry it's grainy, found this on  Google. It's gorgeous!!!!

July 2016, HarperCollins Publishers, 13 hours & 13 minutes, Audiobook, Review copy from Audible UK

Summary from Audible

 Summer Freeman returns to the waterside village of Willowbeck to rescue the Canal Boat Café, her late mother's picturesque narrowboat, which has run into choppy waters. A family friend, Valerie, has been trying to keep things afloat, but the coffee machine is jammed, the cake offerings are paltry, and not all of the locals want to see the café succeed. 

Help comes from the boat next door, in the shape of handsome wildlife photographer, Mason, and his naughty border terrier, who are showing more than a passing interest in Summer and her adorable bichon frise, Latte. But is Mason being honest about himself? Or does he have something to hide?

As her life and the community of Willowbeck begin to entwine, Summer finds herself setting sail on a new adventure. Will the anchor of a steady life on land be too strong, or can Summer learn to cut loose and embrace life afloat?

Nayu's thoughts 

I'm so glad I could read/listen this in one volume, rather than the 4 parts it was originally in it's ebook form. I'd have been so frustrated at needing to know what happens at the end of one of the parts that it would have ended up with a lower grade! I loved the whole concept of Summer taking on her mother's cafe, making it her own with a lot of ups and downs while doing so. I loved the way her new home had different dimensions to what she was used to, how she met so many people because of it.

It's a case where I love fiction more than reality, since I hate being on a boat/near water, which Summer has no issue with. Summer is lovable for the mistakes she makes. I absolutely hated one of the characters, who made me frustrated that Summer couldn't be left alone, and horrified when some home truths came out. I was as shocked as Summer, and that's all I can say without giving a spoiler. Summer manages to clash majorly with her new friends, which leads her literally up the river (canal, and it may have been down in direction, but that's not important.) 

I love how canal life worked it's magic on Summer, how happy she was when she wasn't stressed and with a certain person I wanted to shove in the canal repeatedly. Her heart gets hugged and chewed in equal measure, but I promise the very end is a happy ever after moment. I felt warm and strong after reading Summer's tale, and I'm eager to reread it (or should that be relisten?) 

How To Find Love In A Book Shop by Veronica Henry read by Julia Barry (Contemporary, Romance, audiobook, 9/10E, short 'n' sweet review)

June 2016, Orion Publishing Group, 10 hours 54 minutes long, Audiobook (& Paperback) Review copy

Summary from Veronica's website

Nightingale Books, nestled on the high street in the idyllic Cotswold town of Peasebrook, is a dream come true for booklovers.

But owner Emilia Nightingale is struggling to keep the shop open. The temptation to sell up is proving enormous - but what about the promise she made to her father? Not to mention the loyalty she owes to her customers.Sarah Basildon, owner of stately pile Peasebrook Manor, has used the book shop as an escape from all her problems in the past few years. But is there more to her visits than meets the eye?

Since messing up his marriage, Jackson asks Emilia for advice on books to read to the son he misses so much. But Jackson has a secret, and is not all he seems...

And there's Thomasina, painfully shy, who runs a pop-up restaurant from her tiny cottage. She has a huge crush on a man she met and then lost in the cookery section, somewhere between Auguste Escoffier and Marco Pierre White. Can she find the courage to admit her true feelings?

Nayu's thoughts  

Initially I wasn't fond how the point of view regularly changed; having memory issues makes this type of read/listen a bit tricky. I don't overly like male povs, but was surprised by how quickly I cared Emelia's father. He certainly had an interesting life, one that makes a huge impact on Emelia. It sounds idyllic to take over a bookshop, but it is far from as simple as that, no least because one character wants Emelia to fail. He gave me the creeps! I don't care for people who have affairs, or do drugs, which meant 2 key characters were clearly in my dislike pile. I was scared that Sarah's daughter wouldn't learn the truth about her fiance in time, she doesn't but it's a good end to taht plot thread. 

As for Emelia, she makes some good friends, but is worn down by grief and other emotions and considers going away from what is a painful mess. Then there's Thomasina, well she positively blossoms throughout the novel, which was such a delight to see happen. I promise it's a hapoy ending! I loved watching Emelia work through her grief, how she learnt more about her father's life through the people he knew divulging information to him. I loved the strength of Sarah's daughter whose name escapes me right now, how she coped with a major plot twists that eventually reveals her fiances true colours. And of course there's the bookshop, what isn't there to love about one! 

Definitely going on my relisten pile-yes, this is an audiobook review request! The narration is excellent, a voice I can happily listen to for hours which nails the sentiment in the stoey perfectly. The only reason this didn't get full marks was because of my initial confusion with so many characters, but that's a personal problem rather than one most readers would have. 

Find out more on Veronica's website.

Amelia Moore Detective #5 Her Lost Love by Linda Weaver Clarke (Cozy Mystery, 10/10E, audiobook, short 'n' sweet review)

July 2016, Red Mountain Shadows Publishing, 5 hours and 15 minutes, Audiobook, Review copy 

Book summary

Amelia Moore, the founder of the Moore Detective Agency, specializes in missing persons. Her cases have taken her to some very interesting places and put her in some dangerous situations, but she always solves the case. With the help of her partner, Rick Bonito, the business is flourishing. 

Julie Anderson feels a need to find the man she fell deeply in love with during her youth. When Julie went off to college to become a lawyer, she lost contact with her high school sweetheart. She now wants to know what became of Joey, and why he stopped writing to her. This is an assignment that intrigues Amelia. The thought of finding a long-lost love seems quite romantic.

 

Nayu's thoughts

Hunting down someone's lost love is a journey of love for Amelia. She is still in the early stages of love with her business partner Rick, and the uncertainties she has for commitment are explored as the mystery unfolds. It felt like the stakes were lowered a little in favour for exploring the romance between the detectives...at least that's what I thought until the end which had me holding my breath then laughing at the outcome. I prefer action to romance, but understand that Amelia and Rick are still getting to know each other and a lot of readers like romance. Even knowimg what I do from finishing the book, there's no doubt that Amelia is holding a lot of information about her upbringing which I hope will be divulged over the next few books (I know this series is long-yippee!).

I love seeing her confidence as a detective grow, especially when it comes to dealing with secret service workers, who had me intrigued and made me laugh a lot. Together Amelia and Rick have to constantly try and outsmart them so they can proceed with their case. Admittedly it's probably my least favourite book in the series, but as you can see from the grade I still really enjoyed it. I love the familiarity of Rick and Amelia, love knowin that danger will eventually come, that there will be plot twists I guessed both correctly and incorrectly. It is overall a feel good read, one which I'm looking forward to returning to some day. 

Find out more on Linda's website.

Suggested read

Read the other books in the series which starts with A Bali Mystery by Linda Weaver Clarke (Cozy Mystery 10/10E) (I've reviewed them all so do a search on my blog for them)