Coming Soon...
Projects I'm working on - Audiobook Reviews - Free Books!
Fantasy
Trace Origin Story
When I first started writing fiction, I’ll be the first to admit that I didn’t know what I was doing. I’ve always been a writer, but I needed time to develop my writing style and understand how to put the story together. Because of this, the first chapters of After It’s Over and the Force of Magic are loaded with “telling” instead of showing. I’m giving the readers a ton of background info before I jump into the story.
I considered a rewrite of the beginning of The Force of Magic, but in the end, I decided to write a short novella about Trace’s origin. This will be a 10,000-20,000 word version of Chapter One of the Force of Magic. Trace deserves better and I intend to give him the fleshed out origin story I always wanted to. Look for this to be available to you mid-summer.
A Journey Down Below: A Review of BBC Radio 4's Neverwhere
Neil Gaiman's Neverwhere is a story practically begging to be experienced in audio, and BBC Radio 4's full-cast dramatization doesn't disappoint. This production plunges listeners headfirst into the shadowy world beneath London, bringing its fantastical inhabitants and perilous journey to vibrant, aural life.
One of the production's greatest strengths lies in its stellar cast. James McAvoy delivers a wonderfully bewildered and increasingly resilient Richard Mayhew. His initial naivete and subsequent reluctant bravery are palpable in his voice, drawing the listener into Richard's extraordinary predicament. Opposite him, Natalie Dormer embodies the enigmatic Door with a captivating blend of vulnerability and fierce determination.
The supporting cast is equally impressive. Sophie Okonedo is chillingly captivating as the villainous Hunter, her voice a smooth, seductive menace that sends shivers down the spine. Christopher Lee, in one of his final roles, lends gravitas and a touch of otherworldly wisdom to the Marquis de Carabas. His distinctive voice, rich with experience, makes the Marquis both cunning and strangely comforting. Benedict Cumberbatch provides a suitably unsettling and unpredictable Angel Islington, his vocal performance laced with a dangerous intensity.
The exceptional performances from a stellar cast, coupled with evocative sound design, create a truly captivating and immersive listening experience. While it inevitably differs in its presentation and level of detail from the unabridged print version, it captures the dark magic, quirky characters, and compelling narrative of Gaiman's novel beautifully. This audio adaptation serves as a fantastic way to revisit a beloved story or to discover the wonders (and dangers) of London Below for the first time. It's a testament to the power of audio storytelling and a worthy companion to the printed word.
Thriller
A Cleverly Crafted Deception: A Review of Listen for the Lie by Amy Tintera
Amy Tintera's Listen for the Lie takes a compelling premise – a woman accused of her friend’s murder – and ingeniously weaves in podcast snippets to unravel the truth. The audiobook format is particularly effective here, as the interspersed recordings of the "Truth or Lie" podcast become an active participant in the storytelling.
Narrator January LaVoy delivers a nuanced performance as Lucy, capturing her initial shock and grief, which gradually morphs into a steely determination to clear her name. Her voice conveys both vulnerability and a growing suspicion towards those around her.
The integration of the podcast segments is the standout feature. Voiced by a separate cast, these snippets offer multiple perspectives on the case, introducing new clues, red herrings, and the often-biased opinions of the public. This multi-vocal approach creates a dynamic and immersive listening experience, mirroring the way true crime podcasts often unfold. The shifts in tone and the distinct voices of the podcast host and interviewees add layers of complexity and keep the listener engaged, actively trying to discern fact from fiction alongside Lucy.
While the core mystery is gripping, it's the clever use of the podcast format within the audiobook that truly elevates Listen for the Lie. It's a smart and engaging way to present multiple viewpoints and build suspense, making this audiobook a particularly compelling and innovative listen for fans of suspense and true crime narratives. I give this book 4 stars, but the audiobook elevates the story and is the only way you should consume it.
Have Kindle Unlimited? Looking to start a new series? Click the image above for some selections by Indie Authors
Historical Fiction
If you love Historical Fiction, and like to support Indie Authors, click the image above for some great recommendations. :)
Urkhammer Beta Readers
My next book, Letters From Urkhammer is 95% done and I should be finishing it before the end of May. I’m looking for Beta Readers! If you’re interested in being an early reader and giving me critical feedback on the story, reply to this email or send me a DM on Substack. Everyone of you will get a free copy of this book upon it’s completion and release in September, as my gift to you. Letters From Urkhammer is a paranormal historical mystery, unlike anything else I’ve ever written.
Free Books! - The List is Long and Varied
