singingknitter

Just Another Wonderful Story!

Reviewed: 03-22-19

Rosalind James wrote another heartwarming, engaging story that keeps you anxious to see what is going to happen. And, even better is Emma Wilder's narration. She brings a new depth and sense of character to this book. It's so great when the narration enhances my perception of the characters, too often the opposite is true. Rhys Fletcher is a older rugby star, returning to New Zealand to coach the Auckland Blues. Zora Fletcher is the widow of Dylan Fletcher, Rhys' little brother who wasn't the most responsible man. She is also an amazing woman, raising her and Dylan's son, Isaiah, a sweet boy. This story revolves around the growing attraction between Rhys and Zora, with twists and turns that test their relationship and trust. There are unforeseen events that catch the reader totally off guard, in a good way. The sexual tension in Ms. James' books is always a page turner and Ms. Wilder manages the situations wonderfully. I love the way she does the accents, the different ages of the characters, and the emotions. All in all, this audible book is a fantastic addition to Rosalind James' series.

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Sexy As Keeps Getting Better!

Reviewed: 12-12-18

Sexy As Sin is a wonderful , standalone romance/suspense novel by Rosalind James. (Although it is book 3 in her series.) Emma Wilder's narration takes the story to a new level of intensity. Brett Hunter is a big time developer spending time in Bryon Bay, Australia to work on another deal; Willow Sanderson is an amazing chef/ caterer working hard to make her dreams come true; they meet on the beach as the result of a near tragedy that leaves them both unsettled. Their paths continue to cross and their relationship blossoms from acquaintance, to friendship, to somethin more that includes lots of sexual tension. Ms. James builds up their attraction slowly and Ms. Wilder continues on that path. In fact, Ms. Wilder does an awesome job filling out all the characters and bringing the story to life! As the story unfolds and the weird "accidents" and unanswered questions pile up, both writer and narrator draw you deeper into the suspense, including the sexual tension which Ms. James is SO expert at writing. The final denouement of the mystery and Brett and Willow finding their own answers make this an excelle read and listen. I recommend this Audible book , whether you have read the written book, orang of the others. You will not be disappointed at all.

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Heartwarming story about love, family, and New Zealand

Reviewed: 04-15-18

Tracey Alvarez has once again written a wonderful book filled with real characters with real life problems, fears, and hopes. Owen Bennett, or Dr. O, is a local physician who has temporarily taken over the care of his 2 nieces and nephew while his mother recuperates. Gracie Cooper is kind of an itinerant world traveler, who comes home for a wedding and, through a series of events, is hired by Owen to help with the kids. They are drawn to one another, but neither wants a relationship or commitment, but that doesn't stop the attraction or sexual tension between them. This story revolves around their struggles to fight the attraction, the issues with a precocious child, a cute little boy, and the trials of a coming of age teenager, and with Gracie trying to find what she truly wants i her life. Ms. Alvarez has written a wonderful story that involves characters from previous books as well as some interesting new people. Ms. O'Toole does another amazing narrating job of adding depth and substance to the characters and their emotions. She capably captures the nuances in them and adds so much to an already good story. I really enjoyed these characters finding each other and their happy ever after. Ms. Alvarez has done it again with a winner and Ms. O'Toole has gotten even better too. I highly recommend this book to all romance lovers. The fact that it is set in New Zealand just makes it that much better!

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A rugby player, a cat, an artist, and twins!

Reviewed: 04-15-18

Rosalind James has written another wonderful story about New Zealand, rugby, and love. Her characters are vibrant and believable, drawing you into her book deeper and deeper, making you care about everyone. Emma Wilder's narration adds wonderful depth and interest to the story. Marko Sendoa is a determined rugby player of immense strength and character, his life ordered and just the way he wants it. Nyree Morgan is a free Maori spirit of amazing talent. Their first meeting doesn't go well, but when Marko has to do some PR work at a local animal shelter, they meet again and this time the sparks fly. As the story unfolds to include a cat besotted with Marko, a pregnant relative who comes to live with him, and Nyree coming to help him out, the ensuing chaos and humor and romantic build up are truly enjoyable to read. Add to the mix a mother sending daily tarot cards to Marko, another drama queen mom, and Nyree's past involvement with rugby, and you will not be able to put this book down. Ms. James brings in some old friends from previous books, plus some absolutely stunning images of New Zealand, and intertwined so much into her story that it is truly remarkable. Her writing only improves with each book it seems. Ms. Wilder is a wonderful narrator who catches the characters and brings them to life. She adds depth and warmth to them without going overboard. Occasionally I had a time knowing who was talking, as some of the voices seemed alike, but her pronunciation of Maori words and place names was spot on. I loved this book when I read it, and this narration made it even better. I highly recommend it!
I received a free copy of this book in return for an honest review. I have not been compensated in any way and was not required to write a positive review. The opinions expressed here are my own.

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Romantic suspense well worth your time!

Reviewed: 12-27-17

Guilty as Sin is a wonderful story to read and Emma Wilder makes it an even better audible book. She takes the characters Ms. James writes about so well and gives them body and soul. I have always loved Ms. James' books and Guilty as Sin is no exception! Jace Blackstone is a former Australian commando turned thriller writer, who is now being stalked by a psycho. Paige and Lily Hollander are identical twins, but totally different. Paige is a tough cop from San Francisco, currently on medical leave while awaiting the outcome of an internal investigation. Lily, on the the other hand, is all feminine, dressing in stylish and coordinating outfits. She lives in Sinful, as does Jace, but has run into trouble with the locals. She refuses to sell her land and home to a developer for a ski resort that will benefit the town's economy. She also owns a lingerie shop in town. She asks her sister Paige to switch places with her to deal with her issues. What follows is sometimes scary, sometimes funny, and lots of times hot. The sexual tension and attraction is instant between Jace and Paige. As the tension mounts and attacks escalate, so do their feelings. Ms James delivers a taut, well written story that keeps you guessing. Emma Wilder brings added depth and feeling to the characters and makes it all so believable. Her narration is well done and, again, really adds to the story. I highly recommend this book to lovers of romantic suspense. You will not be disappointed AND, you might get as addicted to Ms James' books as I am!
I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. The opinions expressed here are mine and I was not asked to write a positive review nor was I compensated in any way.

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Another Wonderful Far North Story

Reviewed: 12-19-17

Tracey Alvarez always writes wonderful stories about New Zealand, and, when you add the narration of Rose O'Toole, magic happens! Characters come to life and the story takes on a whole new dimension. This is the second book in Ms. Alvarez' New Zealand Far North series and the main characters, Savannah and Glen have not only history, but chemistry too. The story develops as they try to dance around each other in ways that are funny, romantic, sometimes sad, and often hot, it holds your interest the entire way. Ms. O'Toole definitely rises to each occasion, making them memorable. The layers of characters in this story are fun to follow as they weave in and out of Sav and Glen's lives. The sexual tension builds and builds and has you holding your breath! The dialogue is already well written, but Ms. O'Toole brings life and realism to each person regardless of age or attitude. She truly gives another depth to this story. I highly recommend this book for anyone who loves romance AND New Zealand. I also recommend the first book, Hide Your Heart, that Ms. Alvarez and Ms. O'Toole collaborated on. You will not be disappointed!

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Healing and Love in Bounty Bay

Reviewed: 08-24-17

Hide Your Heart is another example of Tracey Alvarez's skill at writing believable, heartwarming stories. Her characters are like people you meet in your own life, and Rose O'Toole, the narrator, brings a depth and authenticity to each character. Lauren Taylor is a famous ex-model, ex-wife and mother to young Drew. Trying to escape the notoriety of her previous life and abusive marriage, she has settled in Bounty Bay, close to her brother Nate and his family. She has hidden herself and her heart away and just wants to give her and her son a quiet life of healing and normalcy. Enter Nate Fraser, a famous "photojournalist" , who buys the property next door with a plan to make it into a retreat for the rich and famous. Exit anonymity. Hide Your Heart revolves around Nate's plans for his property, Lauren's attempts to dissuade and redirect him, and, underlying all of it, their undeniable attraction to one another. Through the book, as they learn more about each other and the passion grows, we see each character's fears and emotions about love and commitment. We see Nate's deepening relationship with a rambunctious and sweet Drew, and Lauren's heart slowly opening up. As they explore their passion, situations and complications arise that challenge each one's vision of their future. Rose O'Toole captures these moments and and the emotions with clarity and finesse. She brings uniqueness and life to each person, even little Drew. She adds colour and depth to an already good book. Hide Your Heart is a good read and a wonderful Audible book. I highly recommend Tracey Alvarez to everyone!!!

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Left a lot to be desired

Reviewed: 06-01-17

Would you recommend this book to a friend? Why or why not?

This was the first book by Ms. Brown that I have listened to and I was really hoping for more. More character development, more depth to the relationships, just...more. Nikki had a horrible childhood and an even worse mother, if you can call Judith that. Nikki is an introvert , afraid to delve too deeply into any relationship, preferring computers instead. Until Logan, a restaurant owner with computer problems accidentally calls her instead of regular support. With her friend Gayle's prodding, Nikki ends up helping him and the sparks fly. But, between her insecurities and Gayle's interference, their relationship stumbles along. It was sometimes so annoying I wanted to shake Nikki and slap Gayle. Some of the other people we meet, or hear about, never really amount to more than a shallow chapter that tells you nothing. And then, at the end of the book, all's well with the world, everybody loves everybody else and please, not necessary. Why was Logan's mother so against Nikki then suddenly loves her? How do you remain best friends with someone who is so manipulative and a nasty? Why...the list goes on.

How would you have changed the story to make it more enjoyable?

The story needed to have the characters be more than one dimensional. The day Logan took Nikki to make childhood memories was just so shallow, but a wonderful opportunity to write it more intimately for their relationship. The race issue was brought up as one of the central themes, but never really brought out and really discussed, just danced around. We have a horrible confrontation between Judith and Nikki, then no more interaction unless it's just someone talking about her. How could Nikki not know that Kendra had 2 other sisters? Why does Logan ask Nikki if he's too large for her when they are making love the second time???? Not asked at all at the first? All of a sudden Nikki's father is wanting to be close to her? Where is the background to help me believe this story?

Have you listened to any of Rose O'Toole’s other performances before? How does this one compare?

I have not listened to any of Ms. O'Toole's other performances, but she can hold her own with the other narrators I have listened to. I will be looking for more of her books to listen to.

Was Text 'Yes' If You Love Me worth the listening time?

If I had previously read this book, i would not have listened to it.

Any additional comments?

The saving grace for this book was Ms. O'Toole's professional narration. Even without a lot to work with, she was able to bring a real sense of reality to all the characters. Her intonations for the different people was excellent, and, in spite of a few hiccups in a couple of chapters, they didn't detract from the storyline, the writing did enough of that.

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Love the book but...

Reviewed: 03-14-17

Romantic suspense is easily one of Rosalind James' strong suits. She builds not just the suspense, but also the sexual tension throughout this book. Her character development is first rate and her interaction between them is believable. Paradise Idaho is a small town, but it had it's own evil in the form of Henry Cavanaugh, whose machinations echo through the town and peoples' lives after his death, or was it murder? Hallie Cavanaugh tried to get away from her father, Jim Lawson, sheriff, ex-ranger, and widowed father struggles with his attraction to her, and, as we meet more of the townsfolk, the depth of Henry's evil becomes evident. This story keeps you guessing and cheering Hallie on as she finds her inner strength and her true love. My only problem was the narration of the book. The characters didn't fit the voices. One of the female characters, Althea, sounded like a man, and Jim and most of the other guys sounded like older guys, not young vibrant guys. I still recommend this book for its story line and great writing though.

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The perfect ending!

Reviewed: 02-27-17

Once again in beautiful, familiar New Zealand as Hemi and Hope traverse all the pitfalls of their relationship. Emma Wilder brings the story to life with her amazing narration. Such a refreshing romance that does have an HEA, but with such realism and depth that hauls you along because you HAVE to see what is going to happen next. Ms. James deepens our view of Hemi's whanau, his life and relationships with Koro, and Karen, Matiu, and Tane. Hemi and Hope both mature and become their best ever. And I have to mention the Paris show and how awesome it was, not just the models and theme, but Hope's vindication.
Emma Wilder is amazing, bringing each character to life. Her inflections perfectly reflect the emotions in every situation, no matter what they are. I fell in love with these characters all over again and was sorry when the story ended. 5 stars Ms. James and Ms. WIlder.
I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. I was not compensated for my review and I was not required to write a positive review. The opinion expressed here is my own.

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