Kathy Reichs--Bones to Ashes--Audio Book Review

Reader: Linda Emond

Fans of TV's Bones might be a bit surprised at the liberties taken with Kathy Reichs' original Temperance Brennan character (or vice-versa). But taken as separate incarnations, Book Tempe's adventures are just as entertaining as TV Tempe's.

In this installment of the series, Tempe finds herself facing what might be the remains of a childhood friend. The investigation takes her through a variety of twists and turns, revealing secrets in both the present and in her own past. One particular plot item in this book didn't make sense to me on a character level, but otherwise this is another good installment in the series.

Linda Emond's reading is serviceable, if not exceptional, and better than the readings on a couple of the other books in this series.

Dead Until Dark--Charlaine Harris--Audio Book Review

Reader: Johanna Parker

Dead Until Dark is a solid introduction to Charlaine Harris' Southern Vampire series. With detailed world-building and a plot grounded in the details of rural Louisiana, Harris brings her unique urban fantasy to life. Aside from a few very minor plot quibbles, I found this a thoroughly enjoyable story. Sookie Stackhouse is a kickass heroine, and the Vampire Bill is as intriguing and sexy as a vampire hero should be.

Reader Johanna Parker is practically flawless, providing easily distinguishable voices and an involving, dramatic read that makes this even more engaging than the typical audio book.