thriller

4/5 Stars Kill List by Brian Shea

Julie Gilbert Audiobooks, thriller , , ,
pic from audible

Narrated by Conner Goff

Run Time: 7 hrs and 38 mins

Summary:

Over the top FBI thriller. It’s entertaining if you can overlook some of its flaws.

Additional Comments:

  • Tagline doesn’t really work because the “good guy” Nick Lawrence doesn’t really figure out that he’s working with the “bad guy” bank robber, Declan Enright.
  • I get having trouble getting a job, but with the way things pan out, I’m not sure why that wasn’t an option from the beginning. Also, why does his kid need therapy every single day? I thought autism was in some extreme cases more about being left the heck alone. An every day meeting seems stressful on everybody. Also, many school districts have services for dealing with kids with autism. Free services BTW.
  • Declan’s a guy you can root for. Nick’s troubles with his mother get old fast. Isabella’s cool, but also kind of just the love interest side kick with no other purpose.
  • Declan’s family is kind of just there. Val’s a saint. I don’t even remember the kids’ names or ages or if there are three or four of them.
  • There are some pacing issues.
  • There’s a semi-decent end twist. But even that is very, very far-fetched.
  • The conclusion happens fast, like the author was told you have 2K words to tie this up with a bow.
  • The true bad guy is almost god-like in his powers of foresight and planning. Even with a tragedy, I just don’t buy anybody having that much motivation to play games like this. There are mixed messages with the Mysterious Seven hanging around. They’re probably going to return in later books.
  • It’s not a very happy book, even on a personal level for Nick and Isabella. I’m guessing that’s to leave it open for sequels.
  • I’d probably like this less if I had paid for it. As is, I’ll listen to the other freebies. They’re good time-killers.
  • I liked that the author hit upon the bureaucratic showboating angles.
  • It’s more interesting if you ignore the oddities in everybody being billed as the best of the best and being led around by the nose by a bad guy given essentially deity-level foresight with a huge chip on his shoulder.

Conclusion:

Kind of depressing, yet simultaneously interesting FBI thriller.

*found on Audible Plus

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Have You Tried Kindle Vella Yet?

Christmas Shorts – (Mystery, thriller, Christian, suspense; Ongoing; story 1 is complete) Only one story right now, but will be a collection of short stories with characters from across my series. Typically, FBI agents with personal drama. Might feature an abundance of cute puppies.

The Minder Project Season 1 – (scifi, genetic engineering, superpowers; shares characters with Dustin’s Decision, Updated Wednesdays) The government gave her genetic Gifts. Now, it wants what it paid for from the program.

5 Steps to Better Dialogue – (nonfiction, writing skills; Complete) I feel like nonfiction titles should come with spoiler tags. This is a book for writers seeking to learn more about the creation of realistic characters and dialogue.

Assassin School Season 1 – (thriller, YA; Complete) Teen spies try to survive the rigorous training and other drama as powerful people battle to control the Ghost children.

Dustin’s Decision Devya’s Children Book 5 – (YA scifi, shares characters with The Minder Project; Complete) Genetically altered teens struggle to navigate the murky world and control their Gifts.

4.45/5 Stars Lone Wolf by Sara Driscoll

Julie Gilbert Action Adventure, Audiobooks, thriller , ,
pic from audible

Narrated by Angela Dawe

Run Time: 7 hrs and 19 mins

Summary:

Meg Jennings and Hawk, her search-and-rescue Labrador buddy, get sucked into a wild investigation kicked off by a man with a grudge against the government.

Additional Comments:

  • I feel like it’s obligatory that cop/FBI thriller stars have to have tragic pasts. Meg’s past qualifies. I do like that she has a nice relationship with her sister.
  • The reporter guy wasn’t really fully fleshed out. I think the author is angling for a longer series with him as a love interest.
  • Don’t know enough about the FBI’s K-9 teams to know if it’s realistic.
  • The investigation unfolded nicely. There didn’t seem to be too much lag time and meaningless background drivel, but there were a few tragic past bunny trails.
  • Performance was good.
  • The end managed to be both predictable and satisfying.
  • Content Comments: Some cursing. I don’t recall any sex scenes, but then again, I have listened to a lot of book in the last few weeks. Perk of catching the plague here.
  • Title makes some sense, but the ties aren’t super strong. I think it’s referring to the perpetrator and maybe a little about Meg’s state of mind.

Conclusion:

Fun thriller that hits most of the right beats.

*I think I found this one on audible plus

If you want to get 5 clean audio promos a month. Sign up here.

Have You Tried Kindle Vella Yet?

Christmas Shorts – (Mystery, thriller, Christian, suspense; Ongoing; story 1 is complete) Only one story right now, but will be a collection of short stories with characters from across my series. Typically, FBI agents with personal drama. Might feature an abundance of cute puppies.

The Minder Project Season 1 – (scifi, genetic engineering, superpowers; shares characters with Dustin’s Decision, Updated Wednesdays) The government gave her genetic Gifts. Now, it wants what it paid for from the program.

5 Steps to Better Dialogue – (nonfiction, writing skills; Complete) I feel like nonfiction titles should come with spoiler tags. This is a book for writers seeking to learn more about the creation of realistic characters and dialogue.

Assassin School Season 1 – (thriller, YA; Complete) Teen spies try to survive the rigorous training and other drama as powerful people battle to control the Ghost children.

Dustin’s Decision Devya’s Children Book 5 – (YA scifi, shares characters with The Minder Project; Complete) Genetically altered teens struggle to navigate the murky world and control their Gifts.

Movie Review 4/5 Stars Eagle Eye

Julie Gilbert Action Adventure, Movie Reviews, thriller

Starring: Shia Labouf

Genre: thriller, action

Spoiler free version- it was great if somewhat confusing and unrealistic yet oddly terrifying.

Spoilers ahead.

Summary:

Two strangers are forced to take part in a dangerous adventure. 

Additional Comments:

– Jerry Shaw is the screwup twin content with working at copy cabana and barely making rent.

– Ethan Shaw is the twin who always aimed high. He ends up working for a secret government program that is in charge of a super computer.

– the computer decides the leadership of the US needs to change. So she embarks on an endeavor to accomplish that at the state of the union address 

– what follows is a convoluted series of chase scenes.

Conclusion:

Good movie. High action. There is a little character development. It’s not quite HEA but the sacrifices end up being noble and meaningful.

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Audiobook Promotions …

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Many of my 50 audible titles are listed on Audiobooks Unleashed.
Whether you’re looking for mystery or suspense or fantasy, I’ve got a title for you. Free codes are probably on audiobooks unleashed.
Normal links go to audible. *The Amazon labeled links are affiliate links. That means I get a very small payment from Amazon if you go through with a purchase.*
Note: Filter by US if you’re looking for those codes as many titles are out.
Ones I think may still have US codes: Reshner’s Royal Ranger, Never Again, Innova, The Golden City Captives, The Holy War, Reclaim the Darklands, Eagle Eyes, Treachery Makes it Tense, Ashlynn’s Dreams Shorts, The Dark Side of Science, Ashlynn’s Dreams, Nadia’s Tears, Malia’s Miracles, and Varick’s Quest
There are plenty of UK codes, but not many US ones left.

Redeemer Chronicles (Fantasy)

Awakening – Redeemer Chronicles Book 1, MG fantasy (Amazon) (free codes)
The Holy War – Redeemer Chronicles Book 2, MG fantasy (Amazon) (free codes)
Reclaim the Darklands – Redeemer Chronicles Book 3, MG fantasy (Amazon) (free codes)
River’s Edge Ransom – Prequel to Redeemer Chronicles (Amazon) (email devyaschildren @ gmail.com for free codes)

This image has an empty alt attribute; its file name is DC-set-ad-1024x536.jpg

Devya’s Children Series Links:

Ashlynn’s Dreams Shorts – short stories featuring Jillian. (Amazon) (free codes)
The Dark Side of Science – official prequel to Devya’s Children; Genetically altered kids fight for the right to live. (Amazon) (Please email devyaschildren @ gmail.com for free codes)
Ashlynn’s Dreams – Genetically altered Dream Shaper learns her gift. (Amazon) (free codes)
Nadia’s Tears – Jillian tries to awaken her sister, Nadia, from a coma. (Amazon) (free codes)
Malia’s Miracles – Jillian and her siblings try to save a friend’s mother. (Amazon) (free codes)
Varick’s Quest – Jillian and Danielle get kidnapped. Nadia’s also in trouble. (Amazon) (free codes)
More Scifi:
Reshner’s Royal Ranger (epic sci-fi) just made it there. (Amazon) (free codes)

Guardian Angel Files:

Spirit’s Bane – Allister and Mina are training to be Guardians. Satan’s out to get them. (Amazon) (free codes)
Kindred Spirits – Mina’s exiled to Earth. Allister’s stuck in the Heavens. (Amazon) (free codes)

Movie Review 4/5 Stars No Time to Die

Julie Gilbert Movie Reviews, thriller ,

2 hrs and 43 mins

Summary:

There’s a fair amount of setup and a lot going on. Despite some slow points, it’s a fun action flick. It hits every typical bond film box, including shootouts, fancy gadgets, pretty women, fancy dresses, spiffy suits, car chases, death, and destruction.

Additional Comments:

  • Here, more than in other Bond movies, James has more to fight for.
  • The casting was reasonably well done.
  • Daniel Craig has always made a stellar James Bond. I’m sure they’ll resurrect the franchise with a new pretty face when they need another paycheck.
  • I never watched all the Bond movies in order. They’re basically the film version of candy.
  • The intro was typically long and drawn out, somewhat pretty, but mostly just a kaleidoscope of weird. The song was performed by Billie Ellish. Call me old, but I am not a fan. (She may very well be a talented singer and an influence upon a lot of young people, but she still looks stoned in every picture I’ve ever seen of her.)
  • I might be tempted to see this again, but not a late showing. At almost 3 hrs, this is kinda a beast.

Conclusion:

Worth watching on the big screen.

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Audiobook Promotions …

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Many of my 58 audible titles are listed on Audiobooks Unleashed.
Whether you’re looking for mystery or suspense or fantasy, I’ve got a title for you. Free codes are probably on audiobooks unleashed.
Normal links go to audible. *The Amazon labeled links are affiliate links. That means I get a very small payment from Amazon if you go through with a purchase.*
Note: Filter by US if you’re looking for those codes as many titles are out.
Ones I think may still have US codes: Reshner’s Royal Ranger, Never Again, Innova, The Golden City Captives, The Holy War, Reclaim the Darklands, Eagle Eyes, Treachery Makes it Tense, Ashlynn’s Dreams Shorts, The Dark Side of Science, Ashlynn’s Dreams, Nadia’s Tears, Malia’s Miracles, and Varick’s Quest
There are plenty of UK codes, but not many US ones left.

Redeemer Chronicles (Fantasy)

Awakening – Redeemer Chronicles Book 1, MG fantasy (Amazon) (free codes)
The Holy War – Redeemer Chronicles Book 2, MG fantasy (Amazon) (free codes)
Reclaim the Darklands – Redeemer Chronicles Book 3, MG fantasy (Amazon) (free codes)
River’s Edge Ransom – Prequel to Redeemer Chronicles (Amazon) (email devyaschildren @ gmail.com for free codes)

This image has an empty alt attribute; its file name is DC-set-ad-1024x536.jpg

Devya’s Children Series Links:

Ashlynn’s Dreams Shorts – short stories featuring Jillian. (Amazon) (free codes)
The Dark Side of Science – official prequel to Devya’s Children; Genetically altered kids fight for the right to live. (Amazon) (Please email devyaschildren @ gmail.com for free codes)
Ashlynn’s Dreams – Genetically altered Dream Shaper learns her gift. (Amazon) (free codes)
Nadia’s Tears – Jillian tries to awaken her sister, Nadia, from a coma. (Amazon) (free codes)
Malia’s Miracles – Jillian and her siblings try to save a friend’s mother. (Amazon) (free codes)
Varick’s Quest – Jillian and Danielle get kidnapped. Nadia’s also in trouble. (Amazon) (free codes)
More Scifi:
Reshner’s Royal Ranger (epic sci-fi) just made it there. (Amazon) (free codes)

Guardian Angel Files:

Spirit’s Bane – Allister and Mina are training to be Guardians. Satan’s out to get them. (Amazon) (free codes)
Kindred Spirits – Mina’s exiled to Earth. Allister’s stuck in the Heavens. (Amazon) (free codes)

3.5/5 stars Blind Cerulean by Gene Kendall

Julie Gilbert Audiobooks, scifi, thriller , ,

Narrated by Tom Weitzel

Run Time: 8 hrs and 46 minutes

Genre: scifi, thriller, vigilante

Summary:

Alley and her mysterious Coach work to save Acadia.

Additional Comments:

  • Points for being unique. This story alternates third and second person. I didn’t like that aspect, but it gets points for uniqueness. I found it needlessly confusing to hear sections spoken of as “you.” Second person is rarely used for good reason. It makes sense in choose your own adventure books and the like, but here, the sections sporting it would have been fine or even more powerful if done in third or first person point of view. The back and forth nature of past and present caused more confusion than it’s worth. It felt like 2 very different stories were being told for about 90% of the book. (It clicks together in the end, finally.)
  • Genre’s actually kind of hard to pin down. It’s billed as a vigilante thriller, but that’s kind of a small part of the plot. The Mx drug stuff conveys almost super human abilities to those who ingest it. The drug experiments and government programs to control the stuff make it seem a wee bit scifi-y. The cult angle wasn’t fully developed enough to make them seem dangerous, but that lent mightily to the mysterious bad guys that need to be fought by a vigilante air. One character even made it seem like an X-file for a while (the gross ones, not the government conspiracy ones).
  • The title makes it seem almost literary, which this book is certainly not. (That’s not an insult; it’s not meant to be literary.) It might be one of those rare books where too much is happening for everything to gel properly.
  • The setting didn’t line up very well. I think that’s because the story gave off such strong scifi vibes early on that I expected the story to be set in the future or in a dystopian future.
  • The big reveals were predictable yet still decently satisfying.
  • Alley and Chase are likable, though I wish their friendship went somewhere deeper. Even when they were forced closer through circumstances, their relationship seemed distant and cold.
  • Coach isn’t likeable. He does the grumpy old mentor figure well enough but then it gets over done to the point, he’s just a jerk.
  • Alley’s mom is kind of useless.
  • The tech doesn’t seem to line up properly. People would be hard-pressed to find working tape players after the 90’s. If this kid’s 15, then she was born ~2005-ish.
  • Cover’s cool but it doesn’t really smack as a vigilante. I get a crime and dystopian flavor from the cover.
  • The performance was competently handled.
  • The vigilante angle is a lot of fun, but it lacks focus. Her actions don’t seem to have an ultimate goal besides hit drug pushers and do some damage.
  • The obsession with the 80’s definitely dates the book. There are giant coincidences that are explained in the end.
  • Closure is mediocre. It wraps up with a three-years-later stamp, but there’s obviously a lot left unresolved. That’s understandable if this is a first in a series, but so far, it doesn’t seem to be.
  • I like that the story had more going on than simple fight bad guys, but I think it probably went too far into other genre territories to be truly satisfying as a vigilante tale.
  • I can see it being attractive to some readers, but the oddball mix of genres may be a detractor for others.

Conclusion:

If you’re looking for a high-action genre mix, this is worth checking out.

*I received a free copy of the audiobook. This is my honest opinion. I have freely chosen to provide a review.

If you want to get 5 clean audio promos a month. Sign up here.

Audiobook Promotions …

This image has an empty alt attribute; its file name is rc-1-3-audio-ad-1024x536.jpg

Many of my 50 audible titles are listed on Audiobooks Unleashed.
Whether you’re looking for mystery or suspense or fantasy, I’ve got a title for you. Free codes are probably on audiobooks unleashed.
Normal links go to audible. *The Amazon labeled links are affiliate links. That means I get a very small payment from Amazon if you go through with a purchase.*
Note: Filter by US if you’re looking for those codes as many titles are out.
Ones I think may still have US codes: Reshner’s Royal Ranger, Never Again, Innova, The Golden City Captives, The Holy War, Reclaim the Darklands, Eagle Eyes, Treachery Makes it Tense, Ashlynn’s Dreams Shorts, The Dark Side of Science, Ashlynn’s Dreams, Nadia’s Tears, Malia’s Miracles, and Varick’s Quest
There are plenty of UK codes, but not many US ones left.

Redeemer Chronicles (Fantasy)

Awakening – Redeemer Chronicles Book 1, MG fantasy (Amazon) (free codes)
The Holy War – Redeemer Chronicles Book 2, MG fantasy (Amazon) (free codes)
Reclaim the Darklands – Redeemer Chronicles Book 3, MG fantasy (Amazon) (free codes)
River’s Edge Ransom – Prequel to Redeemer Chronicles (Amazon) (email devyaschildren @ gmail.com for free codes)

This image has an empty alt attribute; its file name is DC-set-ad-1024x536.jpg

Devya’s Children Series Links:

Ashlynn’s Dreams Shorts – short stories featuring Jillian. (Amazon) (free codes)
The Dark Side of Science – official prequel to Devya’s Children; Genetically altered kids fight for the right to live. (Amazon) (Please email devyaschildren @ gmail.com for free codes)
Ashlynn’s Dreams – Genetically altered Dream Shaper learns her gift. (Amazon) (free codes)
Nadia’s Tears – Jillian tries to awaken her sister, Nadia, from a coma. (Amazon) (free codes)
Malia’s Miracles – Jillian and her siblings try to save a friend’s mother. (Amazon) (free codes)
Varick’s Quest – Jillian and Danielle get kidnapped. Nadia’s also in trouble. (Amazon) (free codes)
More Scifi:
Reshner’s Royal Ranger (epic sci-fi) just made it there. (Amazon) (free codes)

Guardian Angel Files:

Spirit’s Bane – Allister and Mina are training to be Guardians. Satan’s out to get them. (Amazon) (free codes)
Kindred Spirits – Mina’s exiled to Earth. Allister’s stuck in the Heavens. (Amazon) (free codes)

4/5 stars Shadow Harvest by Emily Kimelman

Julie Gilbert Audiobooks, thriller , , ,

Narrated by Sonja Field

Run Time: 6 hrs and 13 mins

Genre: Thriller, vigilante

Summary:

The Sydney Rye series probably should be read in order. This is book 7. It can be read as a standalone. I basically did, since I’d read book 6 about 5 years ago. They’re good mindless thrillers.

Sydney travels to China with her faithful companion, Blue, to find Merrel who went to see a lady friend.

Additional Comments:

  • Sydney and crew, including Blue, are vigilantes. They take out the bad guys in the name of justice. They’re not as fun as the Leverage crew, but they have a similar agenda. Be bad guys to be good guys.
  • It’s a standard thriller. First half is all setup, but eventually, we get to the action.
  • The title actually has to do with the story! You have no idea what a rarity that is these days.
  • Governments being shady, not that far-fetched.
  • Sydney’s drama with Dan is kind of disappointing, but that’s a very small part of the story.
  • Merrell doesn’t get much page time.
  • New guy is an interesting addition.
  • Tech guy was just kind of there for the ride.
  • The random murder wasn’t really solved, that’s disappointing but probably lends to credibility.
  • There’s little sense of closure because there are distinct threads that lead to the next book. That’s a cheap tactic to try to get you to buy the next book. That’s why I like omnibus titles. Would the mystery with Deklan make me buy something else, well no but I’m sure it works for some people.
  • Content Warnings: Some violence. There are a few hard curses.

Conclusion:

Sydney Rye’s not exactly an angel, but she’s got some definite ideas on right and wrong and heaven help you if you’re on the wrong side of that.

If you want to get 5 clean audio promos a month. Sign up here.

Audiobook Promotions …

This image has an empty alt attribute; its file name is rc-1-3-audio-ad-1024x536.jpg

Many of my 50 audible titles are listed on Audiobooks Unleashed.
Whether you’re looking for mystery or suspense or fantasy, I’ve got a title for you. Free codes are probably on audiobooks unleashed.
Normal links go to audible. *The Amazon labeled links are affiliate links. That means I get a very small payment from Amazon if you go through with a purchase.*
Note: Filter by US if you’re looking for those codes as many titles are out.
Ones I think may still have US codes: Reshner’s Royal Ranger, Never Again, Innova, The Golden City Captives, The Holy War, Reclaim the Darklands, Eagle Eyes, Treachery Makes it Tense, Ashlynn’s Dreams Shorts, The Dark Side of Science, Ashlynn’s Dreams, Nadia’s Tears, Malia’s Miracles, and Varick’s Quest
There are plenty of UK codes, but not many US ones left.

Redeemer Chronicles (Fantasy)

Awakening – Redeemer Chronicles Book 1, MG fantasy (Amazon) (free codes)
The Holy War – Redeemer Chronicles Book 2, MG fantasy (Amazon) (free codes)
Reclaim the Darklands – Redeemer Chronicles Book 3, MG fantasy (Amazon) (free codes)
River’s Edge Ransom – Prequel to Redeemer Chronicles (Amazon) (email devyaschildren @ gmail.com for free codes)

This image has an empty alt attribute; its file name is DC-set-ad-1024x536.jpg

Devya’s Children Series Links:

Ashlynn’s Dreams Shorts – short stories featuring Jillian. (Amazon) (free codes)
The Dark Side of Science – official prequel to Devya’s Children; Genetically altered kids fight for the right to live. (Amazon) (Please email devyaschildren @ gmail.com for free codes)
Ashlynn’s Dreams – Genetically altered Dream Shaper learns her gift. (Amazon) (free codes)
Nadia’s Tears – Jillian tries to awaken her sister, Nadia, from a coma. (Amazon) (free codes)
Malia’s Miracles – Jillian and her siblings try to save a friend’s mother. (Amazon) (free codes)
Varick’s Quest – Jillian and Danielle get kidnapped. Nadia’s also in trouble. (Amazon) (free codes)
More Scifi:
Reshner’s Royal Ranger (epic sci-fi) just made it there. (Amazon) (free codes)

Guardian Angel Files:

Spirit’s Bane – Allister and Mina are training to be Guardians. Satan’s out to get them. (Amazon) (free codes)
Kindred Spirits – Mina’s exiled to Earth. Allister’s stuck in the Heavens. (Amazon) (free codes)

4 Stars Stolen Omnibus (Books 0-2) by James Hunt

Julie Gilbert Audiobooks, thriller , ,
pic from audible

Narrated by Tia Rider Sorensen

Run Time: 10 hrs and 11 min

Genre: Suspense/Thriller

Content Warning: Lots of violence. Lots of cursing.

Summary:

A child goes missing. The motive’s pretty clear cut because the big bad evil oil company who’s illegally dumping shady chemicals into innocent people’s water sources for the sake of the almighty dollar is about to have some legislation that might cramp their money-making style.

Additional Comments:

  • Toss your suspension of disbelief out the window and enjoy the ride.
  • This lady is having a really, really bad day. So is her brother. So are her daughters. The sweet innocent one we hardly know and the grumpy teenager.
  • The grumpy teenager is probably the most realistic character.
  • Jake’s kinda cool.
  • The main character’s someone you can sorta root for.
  • Content Warning: There are a LOT of curse words in here. Some of them fit the moment, some don’t. Probably about 30+ f-bombs throughout the 10 hr production.
  • Plot is crazy ridiculously over the top. You could probably have filled the book with about 3 of these straight up gunfights. They’re well described, but seriously, it’s like North Dakota is now the Wild West. I’m probably missing something but it was like car crash, meeting, gun battle, meeting, gun battle, kidnapping, worry, gun battle, murder, gun battle, are you okay?, more worry, etc.
  • I’m really not sure why it’s an omnibus, and I’ll tell you straight out: if I had read just book 0 or just book 1, I would have thrown the book because they don’t really have an ending. I’m not sure the book would even make sense without the prequel. It’s got a LOT of important backstory.
  • The ending’s not really satisfying.
  • Narration was well-handled.

Conclusion:

I’d give the author and narrator another shot. It was typical thriller. Things blow up for 10 hrs straight.

If you want to get 5 clean audio promos a month. Sign up here.

Audiobook Promotions …

This image has an empty alt attribute; its file name is rc-1-3-audio-ad-1024x536.jpg

Many of my 50 audible titles are listed on Audiobooks Unleashed.
Whether you’re looking for mystery or suspense or fantasy, I’ve got a title for you. Free codes are probably on audiobooks unleashed.
Normal links go to audible. *The Amazon labeled links are affiliate links. That means I get a very small payment from Amazon if you go through with a purchase.*
Note: Filter by US if you’re looking for those codes as many titles are out.
Ones I think may still have US codes: Reshner’s Royal Ranger, Never Again, Innova, The Golden City Captives, The Holy War, Reclaim the Darklands, Eagle Eyes, Treachery Makes it Tense, Ashlynn’s Dreams Shorts, The Dark Side of Science, Ashlynn’s Dreams, Nadia’s Tears, Malia’s Miracles, and Varick’s Quest
There are plenty of UK codes, but not many US ones left.

Redeemer Chronicles (Fantasy)

Awakening – Redeemer Chronicles Book 1, MG fantasy (Amazon) (free codes)
The Holy War – Redeemer Chronicles Book 2, MG fantasy (Amazon) (free codes)
Reclaim the Darklands – Redeemer Chronicles Book 3, MG fantasy (Amazon) (free codes)
River’s Edge Ransom – Prequel to Redeemer Chronicles (Amazon) (email devyaschildren @ gmail.com for free codes)

This image has an empty alt attribute; its file name is DC-set-ad-1024x536.jpg

Devya’s Children Series Links:

Ashlynn’s Dreams Shorts – short stories featuring Jillian. (Amazon) (free codes)
The Dark Side of Science – official prequel to Devya’s Children; Genetically altered kids fight for the right to live. (Amazon) (Please email devyaschildren @ gmail.com for free codes)
Ashlynn’s Dreams – Genetically altered Dream Shaper learns her gift. (Amazon) (free codes)
Nadia’s Tears – Jillian tries to awaken her sister, Nadia, from a coma. (Amazon) (free codes)
Malia’s Miracles – Jillian and her siblings try to save a friend’s mother. (Amazon) (free codes)
Varick’s Quest – Jillian and Danielle get kidnapped. Nadia’s also in trouble. (Amazon) (free codes)
More Scifi:
Reshner’s Royal Ranger (epic sci-fi) just made it there. (Amazon) (free codes)

Guardian Angel Files:

Spirit’s Bane – Allister and Mina are training to be Guardians. Satan’s out to get them. (Amazon) (free codes)
Kindred Spirits – Mina’s exiled to Earth. Allister’s stuck in the Heavens. (Amazon) (free codes)

Movie Review 4/5 stars The Protégé

Julie Gilbert Action Adventure, Movie Reviews, thriller , , ,
official movie poster

Saw it on 8/31/21

Starring: Maggie Q, Samuel L. Jackson and Michael Keaton (Also has Robert Patrick)

Summary:

A woman raised by an assassin finds herself embroiled in a weird and deadly game of cat and mouse with a crazy dude and the crazy dude’s sidekick.

Additional Comments:

  • They threw in at least one nice twist.
  • Anna (Maggie Q) and Moody (Samuel L. Jackson) make a pretty awesome team.
  • I suppose there are worse father figures than an assassin.
  • End turned out to be predictable but satisfying.
  • Has enough action to earn the thriller badge.
  • They threw in an obligatory sex scene that they probably could have done without.
  • There was a lot of shooting. Looked awesome from a visual standpoint.
  • Content warning: strong language. Some pretty gruesome kills.

Conclusion:

Not exactly a return for 8x kind of movie but enjoyable.

If you want to get 5 clean audio promos a month. Sign up here.

Audiobook Promotions …

This image has an empty alt attribute; its file name is rc-1-3-audio-ad-1024x536.jpg

Many of my 50 audible titles are listed on Audiobooks Unleashed.
Whether you’re looking for mystery or suspense or fantasy, I’ve got a title for you. Free codes are probably on audiobooks unleashed.
Normal links go to audible. *The Amazon labeled links are affiliate links. That means I get a very small payment from Amazon if you go through with a purchase.*
Note: Filter by US if you’re looking for those codes as many titles are out.
Ones I think may still have US codes: Reshner’s Royal Ranger, Never Again, Innova, The Golden City Captives, The Holy War, Reclaim the Darklands, Eagle Eyes, Treachery Makes it Tense, Ashlynn’s Dreams Shorts, The Dark Side of Science, Ashlynn’s Dreams, Nadia’s Tears, Malia’s Miracles, and Varick’s Quest
There are plenty of UK codes, but not many US ones left.

Redeemer Chronicles (Fantasy)

Awakening – Redeemer Chronicles Book 1, MG fantasy (Amazon) (free codes)
The Holy War – Redeemer Chronicles Book 2, MG fantasy (Amazon) (free codes)
Reclaim the Darklands – Redeemer Chronicles Book 3, MG fantasy (Amazon) (free codes)
River’s Edge Ransom – Prequel to Redeemer Chronicles (Amazon) (email devyaschildren @ gmail.com for free codes)

This image has an empty alt attribute; its file name is DC-set-ad-1024x536.jpg

Devya’s Children Series Links:

Ashlynn’s Dreams Shorts – short stories featuring Jillian. (Amazon) (free codes)
The Dark Side of Science – official prequel to Devya’s Children; Genetically altered kids fight for the right to live. (Amazon) (Please email devyaschildren @ gmail.com for free codes)
Ashlynn’s Dreams – Genetically altered Dream Shaper learns her gift. (Amazon) (free codes)
Nadia’s Tears – Jillian tries to awaken her sister, Nadia, from a coma. (Amazon) (free codes)
Malia’s Miracles – Jillian and her siblings try to save a friend’s mother. (Amazon) (free codes)
Varick’s Quest – Jillian and Danielle get kidnapped. Nadia’s also in trouble. (Amazon) (free codes)
More Scifi:
Reshner’s Royal Ranger (epic sci-fi) just made it there. (Amazon) (free codes)

Guardian Angel Files:

Spirit’s Bane – Allister and Mina are training to be Guardians. Satan’s out to get them. (Amazon) (free codes)
Kindred Spirits – Mina’s exiled to Earth. Allister’s stuck in the Heavens. (Amazon) (free codes)

3.5/5 Stars Marriage Before Death by Uvi Poznansky

Julie Gilbert Audiobooks, historical, thriller ,

Narrated by Don Warrick

Run Time: 4 hrs and 23 mins

Summary:

Well, that back cover copy pretty much tells you what the story’s about.  I tend not to read them because I usually get books I’m asked to review or base the judgement off the cover and tagline. Lenny K somehow gets separated from his unit, though it’s very vague as to which unit that is. He gets captured by the Nazis. A strange woman tries to save him.

Additional Comments:

  • Narration’s okay. His female voices are a tad painful. There are a lot of French accents, which makes sense because the bulk of the book is set in France just after the Normandy invasion.
  • This is a framed story. Those have their uses, but I’m not seeing much reason to frame this. It would be a heck of a lot more suspenseful if it was told as it unfolded as opposed to memories. I am guessing there’s supposed to be deeper meanings like some war stories are lost to time, but the ending is just annoying.
  • It’s a clean story that unfolds in 3 sections.
  • The characters are likable enough. I’m not sure we know the boy’s name. Maybe it was said once.
  • There are a LOT of coincidences.
  • The action sections are decently well-described. The spy portions are okay.
  • I would read more by the same author or narrator. Probably wouldn’t trip over myself to seek out either of ’em, but they’re decent.

Conclusion:

It’s a decent story, but I’m not sure I’d call it a thriller. Spy tale, maybe. If you’re in the mood for something light about WWII, this might fit the bill.

If you want to get 5 clean audio promos a month. Sign up here.

Audiobook Promotions …

This image has an empty alt attribute; its file name is rc-1-3-audio-ad-1024x536.jpg

Many of my 50 audible titles are listed on Audiobooks Unleashed.
Whether you’re looking for mystery or suspense or fantasy, I’ve got a title for you. Free codes are probably on audiobooks unleashed.
Normal links go to audible. *The Amazon labeled links are affiliate links. That means I get a very small payment from Amazon if you go through with a purchase.*
Note: Filter by US if you’re looking for those codes as many titles are out.
Ones I think may still have US codes: Reshner’s Royal Ranger, Never Again, Innova, The Golden City Captives, The Holy War, Reclaim the Darklands, Eagle Eyes, Treachery Makes it Tense, Ashlynn’s Dreams Shorts, The Dark Side of Science, Ashlynn’s Dreams, Nadia’s Tears, Malia’s Miracles, and Varick’s Quest
There are plenty of UK codes, but not many US ones left.

Redeemer Chronicles (Fantasy)

Awakening – Redeemer Chronicles Book 1, MG fantasy (Amazon) (free codes)
The Holy War – Redeemer Chronicles Book 2, MG fantasy (Amazon) (free codes)
Reclaim the Darklands – Redeemer Chronicles Book 3, MG fantasy (Amazon) (free codes)
River’s Edge Ransom – Prequel to Redeemer Chronicles (Amazon) (email devyaschildren @ gmail.com for free codes)

This image has an empty alt attribute; its file name is DC-set-ad-1024x536.jpg

Devya’s Children Series Links:

Ashlynn’s Dreams Shorts – short stories featuring Jillian. (Amazon) (free codes)
The Dark Side of Science – official prequel to Devya’s Children; Genetically altered kids fight for the right to live. (Amazon) (Please email devyaschildren @ gmail.com for free codes)
Ashlynn’s Dreams – Genetically altered Dream Shaper learns her gift. (Amazon) (free codes)
Nadia’s Tears – Jillian tries to awaken her sister, Nadia, from a coma. (Amazon) (free codes)
Malia’s Miracles – Jillian and her siblings try to save a friend’s mother. (Amazon) (free codes)
Varick’s Quest – Jillian and Danielle get kidnapped. Nadia’s also in trouble. (Amazon) (free codes)
More Scifi:
Reshner’s Royal Ranger (epic sci-fi) just made it there. (Amazon) (free codes)

Guardian Angel Files:

Spirit’s Bane – Allister and Mina are training to be Guardians. Satan’s out to get them. (Amazon) (free codes)
Kindred Spirits – Mina’s exiled to Earth. Allister’s stuck in the Heavens. (Amazon) (free codes)

Cyber League Crimes Books 1-3 by Julie C. Gilbert

Julie Gilbert Audiobooks, mystery, thriller , , ,

Individual Titles: The Popularity Contest, The Hero Contest, The Criminal Contest

Narrated by Liz Brand

Run Time: 10 hrs and 4 mins

Genre: Mystery/ Thriller

Summary:

This is the third series featuring FBI Special Agent Megan Luchek. If you haven’t experienced Shadow Council and Eagle Eyes, you may wish to start there. That said, it should stand on its own.

Megan’s back from a harrowing vacation on the continental US. She’s looking forward to getting back to her day job as an FBI agent. Then, things go awry. Somebody kidnaps Megan’s sister, Tara.

Additional Comments:

  • Megan’s a fun character to write. She’s got a great sense of herself, but she’s not perfect. She’s made some significant mistakes in her past that comes back to haunt her now and then. Then there’s that knack for getting neck-deep into trouble.
  • The series is high action, light humor.
  • Gatton and Cassandra Mirren are recurring characters from previous series. They’re also a lot of fun to write.
  • Content notes: This falls on the lighter scale for my mysteries. Scratched Off is much darker. Even Never Again is much darker. I guess I’d place it on par with the Heartfelt Cases series. Cyber League Crimes is clean fiction but not Christian.
  • Tie ins to other stories: Special Agent Samuel Kerman from Scratched Off has a brief part in the third novella. I’m intrigued by Cassandra’s backstory. Since Vella launched recently, I decided to make her backstory one of my new series. I’ve barely scratched the surface of that with Assassin School Season One, but I intend to return to that when I get the time.

Conclusion:

If you’re in the mood for a quick mystery, this just might fit the bill. It’s 3 stories that should be read one right after the other, but there’s also enough closure at the end of each that you can pause for the day.

If you want to get 5 clean audio promos a month. Sign up here.

Audiobook Promotions …

This image has an empty alt attribute; its file name is rc-1-3-audio-ad-1024x536.jpg

Many of my 50 audible titles are listed on Audiobooks Unleashed.
Whether you’re looking for mystery or suspense or fantasy, I’ve got a title for you. Free codes are probably on audiobooks unleashed.
Normal links go to audible. *The Amazon labeled links are affiliate links. That means I get a very small payment from Amazon if you go through with a purchase.*
Note: Filter by US if you’re looking for those codes as many titles are out.
Ones I think may still have US codes: Reshner’s Royal Ranger, Never Again, Innova, The Golden City Captives, The Holy War, Reclaim the Darklands, Eagle Eyes, Treachery Makes it Tense, Ashlynn’s Dreams Shorts, The Dark Side of Science, Ashlynn’s Dreams, Nadia’s Tears, Malia’s Miracles, and Varick’s Quest
There are plenty of UK codes, but not many US ones left.

Redeemer Chronicles (Fantasy)

Awakening – Redeemer Chronicles Book 1, MG fantasy (Amazon) (free codes)
The Holy War – Redeemer Chronicles Book 2, MG fantasy (Amazon) (free codes)
Reclaim the Darklands – Redeemer Chronicles Book 3, MG fantasy (Amazon) (free codes)
River’s Edge Ransom – Prequel to Redeemer Chronicles (Amazon) (email devyaschildren @ gmail.com for free codes)

This image has an empty alt attribute; its file name is DC-set-ad-1024x536.jpg

Devya’s Children Series Links:

Ashlynn’s Dreams Shorts – short stories featuring Jillian. (Amazon) (free codes)
The Dark Side of Science – official prequel to Devya’s Children; Genetically altered kids fight for the right to live. (Amazon) (Please email devyaschildren @ gmail.com for free codes)
Ashlynn’s Dreams – Genetically altered Dream Shaper learns her gift. (Amazon) (free codes)
Nadia’s Tears – Jillian tries to awaken her sister, Nadia, from a coma. (Amazon) (free codes)
Malia’s Miracles – Jillian and her siblings try to save a friend’s mother. (Amazon) (free codes)
Varick’s Quest – Jillian and Danielle get kidnapped. Nadia’s also in trouble. (Amazon) (free codes)
More Scifi:
Reshner’s Royal Ranger (epic sci-fi) just made it there. (Amazon) (free codes)

Guardian Angel Files:

Spirit’s Bane – Allister and Mina are training to be Guardians. Satan’s out to get them. (Amazon) (free codes)
Kindred Spirits – Mina’s exiled to Earth. Allister’s stuck in the Heavens. (Amazon) (free codes)