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Eileen

Tinley Park, IL, United States | Member Since 2002

273
HELPFUL VOTES
  • 51 reviews
  • 103 ratings
  • 522 titles in library
  • 11 purchased in 2013
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FOLLOWERS
7

  • Dark Harbor

    • UNABRIDGED (11 hrs and 57 mins)
    • By David Hosp
    • Narrated By George Guidall
    Overall
    (443)
    Performance
    (180)
    Story
    (181)

    From the opening chapter of the electrifying Dark Harbor, one thing is clear; this is the clarion call of an exciting new talent. Highly touted debut author David Hosp crafts an engrossing novel in the tradition of John Grisham, John Sandford, and David Baldacci.

    Vincent says: "Can't Put it Down!"
    "Great new author!"
    Overall
    Performance
    Story

    I know this is the first book written by David Hosp, and I was curious to check it out because of the buzz surrounding it. I wasn't disappointed in the least. The storyline is intriguing and fast-paced, the characters are well-developed, and the narration was great. There is nothing not to like about this book.

    As I was listening to it, there were other more famous authors that came to mind - John Grisham, and believe it or not, Stephen King (mostly for the character development of New Englanders and quite a few mentions of the Red Sox which sounded an awful lot like King). Of course, this is a GOOD thing. Mr. Hosp has a great talent for making his characters real, and in my opinion, that's one of the most important elements of a good story. If you can't relate to, or understand, or believe the characters, then who cares? Not a problem here.

    The story itself is original and a good mystery in its own right. There are no lulls in plot, and you will be hooked quickly. I won't delve into the details because I hate spoilers - but I will say I highly recommend it.

    Jump on the bandwagon and check out this new author. You'll be heading to his website next to see if he's got another one in the works, I promise.

    12 of 12 people found this review helpful
  • The Art of Racing in the Rain

    • UNABRIDGED (6 hrs and 56 mins)
    • By Garth Stein
    • Narrated By Christopher Evan Welch
    • Whispersync for Voice-ready
    Overall
    (4436)
    Performance
    (2474)
    Story
    (2467)

    Why we think it’s a great listen: If you’ve ever loved a dog - or even patted a dog - this book, told from the perspective of man’s best friend, will tug at your heartstrings...and won’t let go until long after Welch performs the last word. Enzo knows he is different from other dogs: a philosopher with a nearly human soul (and an obsession with opposable thumbs), he has educated himself by watching television extensively and by listening very closely to the words of his master.

    Lora says: "Enzo (because he's so wize) for president."
    "Beautiful Story"
    Overall
    Performance
    Story

    A friend of mine recommended this book to me, and I had no idea what I'd been missing all these years. I realize this is an older book, but if you missed this like I did, please take the time to listen to it. The narrator was PERFECT for this story as well which makes all the difference.

    This entire novel is told from the dog's point of view. As a dog lover, I really appreciated this approach. I'm convinced half the time that my dogs really do understand when I talk to them, so this was a wonderful indulgence to hear what the dog thinks when he's being spoken to or to know what he's observed.

    It's a well-written story that kept my attention all the way through and brought up every emotion creating everything from belly-laughs to tears. I highly, highly recommend this!

    0 of 0 people found this review helpful
  • Odd Apocalypse: An Odd Thomas Novel, Book 5

    • UNABRIDGED (10 hrs and 46 mins)
    • By Dean Koontz
    • Narrated By David Aaron Baker
    • Whispersync for Voice-ready
    Overall
    (1405)
    Performance
    (1224)
    Story
    (1223)

    Once presided over by a flamboyant Hollywood mogul during the Roaring ’20s, the magnificent West Coast property known as Roseland is now home to a reclusive billionaire financier and his faithful servants. And, for the moment, it’s also a port in the storm for Odd Thomas and his traveling companion, the inscrutably charming Annamaria. In the wake of Odd’s most recent clash with lethal adversaries, the opulent manor’s comforts should be welcome. But there’s far more to Roseland than meets even the extraordinary eye of Odd, who soon suspects it may be more hell than haven.

    D says: "Odd Apocalypse; Oddly Great"
    "What has Koontz done to Odd??"
    Overall
    Performance
    Story

    The first Odd Thomas book was brilliant, in my opinion. I loved the departure to a quirky story with a lovable character from Dean Koontz. As the Odd Thomas series progresses, however, the books decline in all areas.

    I realize one must suspend belief in horror/sci-fi/fantasy novels, and I can do that, no problem. I can live with Odd's "talents" and enjoy them and laugh with him. What I can't live with are the ridiculous, not-believable-by-any-stretch-of-imagination situations he's in after the first book - with Odd Apocalypse being the worst. Even Odd's once charming sense of humor came off as forced and, as a result, quickly annoying.

    To be honest, I really hated this book, and I found myself checking often on "how much time is left??".

    If you loved Odd Thomas, remember him as he was in book 1, and save yourself the money and time this piece of crap will cost you.

    1 of 3 people found this review helpful
  • The Book Case: A Short Story Featuring Detective John Corey

    • UNABRIDGED (1 hr and 58 mins)
    • By Nelson DeMille
    • Narrated By Scott Brick
    • Whispersync for Voice-ready
    Overall
    (480)
    Performance
    (414)
    Story
    (413)

    "The Book Case" is a story that features Nelson DeMille's most famous (and successful) character, Detective John Corey, who has appeared in six DeMille novels: Plum Island, The Lion's Game, Night Fall, Wild Fire, and The Lion. In this story, we see John Corey in his early years as an NYPD Detective, before he became involved with the Federal Anti-Terrorist Task Force.

    Christina says: "They never disappoint"
    "What was the point?"
    Overall
    Performance
    Story

    While I absolutely LOVE John Corey, and I love Scott Brick being John Corey, I couldn't quite figure out what the point of this story was. It was like Corey-filler for no apparent reason. Yeah, I get that it's a short story, but really, this "story" could've been an anecdote in any of the Corey novels, and it would've been better. It's not like there was a lot to figure out here. My favorite thing about it was that it slightly quenched my craving for the perfectly done smart-ass voice of Corey as done by Brick, but the frustrating part was that the story was too short and too pat.

    Your life won't end if you pass this one up, and you're not going to miss anything. If you're completely bored and out of stories for a minute, then go ahead an listen. It's not the worst story.. but it just wasn't necessary.

    0 of 0 people found this review helpful
  • The Drop: Harry Bosch, Book 17

    • UNABRIDGED (11 hrs and 26 mins)
    • By Michael Connelly
    • Narrated By Len Cariou
    Overall
    (2559)
    Performance
    (2069)
    Story
    (2035)

    Harry Bosch has been given three years before he must retire from the LAPD, and he wants cases more fiercely than ever. In one morning, he gets two. DNA from a 1989 rape and murder matches a 29-year-old convicted rapist. Was he an eight-year-old killer, or has something gone terribly wrong in the new Regional Crime Lab? Then Bosch and his partner are called to a death scene fraught with internal politics....

    Joanne says: "A completely satisfying listen"
    "Bosch at his best"
    Overall
    Performance
    Story

    There is a LOT going on in this story - Harry has two cases going on at once, plus he's continuing to teach his daughter how to be a good detective, and he may have a love interest. The story is fast-paced, and I felt like I really got the chance to "know" Bosch as a human being even after all the previous stories.

    The narration was great as usual - it always helps to have the same "voice" for a repeating character. This recording was no exception. Len Cariou IS Bosch to me, and he always does a great job.

    I feel like Connelly is slowly starting to prepare the readers for the end of Harry at some point, and I dread that day. So, for now, I'm just going to enjoy listening to whatever adventure Harry takes and enjoy the ride-along.

    0 of 0 people found this review helpful
  • 11-22-63: A Novel

    • UNABRIDGED (30 hrs and 44 mins)
    • By Stephen King
    • Narrated By Craig Wasson
    Overall
    (13166)
    Performance
    (11547)
    Story
    (11487)

    On November 22, 1963, three shots rang out in Dallas, President Kennedy died, and the world changed. What if you could change it back? In this brilliantly conceived tour de force, Stephen King - who has absorbed the social, political, and popular culture of his generation more imaginatively and thoroughly than any other writer - takes listeners on an incredible journey into the past and the possibility of altering it.

    Kelly says: "I Owe Stephen King An Apology"
    "Stephen King at his best!"
    Overall
    Performance
    Story

    I realize there have been many stories based on "time travel", and some people may write this off as being a cliche of the genre. However, I would never group this book into that category. Why? Because the "time travel" part of this is really the smallest part of this story. The more important concept deals with human nature as only Stephen King can write it. There is no question that these characters have the same faults as all of us, and that's what makes it so compelling.

    Jake/George is an earnest, likeable guy who is struggling to do the right thing throughout many different situations - some of these the hardest of all in matters of the heart. The woman he falls in love with - Sadie - is a true delight. Stephen King has such a talent for writing about strong, funny, intelligent women, and I always adore the chance to read their stories. I was not disappointed here!

    Yes, the question is posed - if you had the chance to go back in time and save JFK from his assassin, would you do it? And if you did, what would be the consequences? This is one of the driving questions of the story, but it's how the entire process is fleshed out that makes this book so good. It is obvious Mr. King did exhaustive research into more than just the history books - he researched what every day life was back in the late 1950's and 1960's. His portrayal of the people, the food, the clothes, the attitudes - everything - is so engrossing, so detailed, you'll feel like you've dropped through the rabbit hole yourself.

    I cannot recommend this book enough. It's not a horror novel - as King is known for. This is storytelling at its finest. The book may seem long at first glance, and the listening time an investment, but it's more than worth it. In fact, I will guarantee you that when this book comes to an end, you will mourn its finish. Don't let this one pass you by.

    2 of 2 people found this review helpful
  • Helter Skelter: The True Story of the Manson Murders

    • UNABRIDGED (26 hrs and 33 mins)
    • By Vincent Bugliosi, Curt Gentry
    • Narrated By Scott Brick
    • Whispersync for Voice-ready
    Overall
    (802)
    Performance
    (683)
    Story
    (688)

    Prosecuting attorney in the Manson trial Vincent Bugliosi held a unique insider's position in one of the most baffling and horrifying cases of the 20th century: the cold-blooded Tate-LaBianca murders carried out by Charles Manson and four of his followers. What motivated Manson in his seemingly mindless selection of victims, and what was his hold over the young women who obeyed his orders? Now available for the first time in unabridged audio, the gripping story of this famous and haunting crime is brought to life by acclaimed narrator Scott Brick.

    Larry says: "What a great book."
    "My first true crime book - what a doozy"
    Overall
    Performance
    Story

    It took me a little while to get used to the true crime format. I listen to a LOT of suspense novels from the likes of John Sandford, Harlan Coben, David Baldacci, etc.. so, it took me some time to get used to the idea that I wasn't going to be listening to much conversation or following a specific plot line. That being said, I DID get used to it because the story is interesting.

    I was only two when all of this happened, so, obviously, I wasn't in the midst of the headlines and fear that came with this story when it hit. As a young person, I remember hearing stories about Manson and his crazy family, but I never really got all the details. I certainly have them now, and I'm astounded by what I learned.

    Manson seems to me to be the ultimate manipulator. The scariest part of this is what he could've done had he not been caught. His ability to convince people to do what he wanted was something he honed over many years, and I think he was just reaching his peak. Some of the transcripts of what he said to Bugliosi and others shed some light for me on how he could be so convincing... he used a lot of actual truth in his arguments. The idea of children as garbage to be thrown away is true.. too many people do that to their kids for crazy reasons. It was also true that he took them in.. yes, he took them in to manipulate them and control them.. but he still took them in. This is what makes him so scary.

    For anyone who has ever wondered how or why something like this could happen (and could possibly happen again), I would highly recommend this book. It's the most inside look you could ever have without having been a part of the investigation yourselves.

    1 of 2 people found this review helpful
  • Promise Me

    • UNABRIDGED (10 hrs and 20 mins)
    • By Harlan Coben
    • Narrated By Harlan Coben
    • Whispersync for Voice-ready
    Overall
    (191)
    Performance
    (87)
    Story
    (87)

    The school year is almost over. Anxious families await word of college acceptances. In these last pressure-cooker months of high school, some kids will make the all-too-common and all-too-dangerous mistake of drinking and driving. But Myron is determined to help keep his friends' children safe, so he makes two neighborhood girls promise him: If they are ever in a bind but are afraid to call their parents, they must call him.

    Ed says: "Coben should stick to writing"
    "Harlan should NEVER narrate again!"
    Overall
    Performance
    Story

    Omg, Harlan! Buddy! What were you thinking? Who put it in your head that you could narrate your own books? My friend, I so enjoy Myron and his insane buddy, Win, but when you speak for them, I think I'm listening to Yogi Bear (thanks for that, previous reviewer.. I was in the midst of listening to this and already annoyed, and then I read your review, and that's been stuck in my head ever since).

    I had to listen to this because I absolutely love Myron and Win. I'm almost through the entire series, so how could I skip? All in all, it's isn't the BEST Myron Bolitar novel, but it is enjoyable.. well, aside from Harlan's narration. Thankfully, it wasn't an extremely long book, or I might've had to skip it and hope for the best. I got so used to Jonathon Marosz being the voice of Myron and Win, and I thought he was really good. I don't know why he didn't finish out the series. However, Scott Brick is an EXCELLENT choice, and I look forward to finishing the series with him.

    Sorry I couldn't really comment more on the actual story - I'm still too distracted by the narration. Synopsis? A missing girl who is the daughter of Myron's friends. He gets mixed up in it and struggles to find her. His past demons are stirred up over it all.. and that's the part I found a little unbelievable. Myron is still thinking about Brenda, a friend who was murdered, a friend he wanted a relationship with but never had one. Myron's angst would be more believable if it was Jessica who had been murdered since we are told she is the one who Myron believes is his soulmate.

    I don't mean to confuse here - I HIGHLY recommend the entire Myron Bolitar series. They are decent suspense stories, and the characters are funny and lovable. I REALLY enjoy Windsor (aka Win). Just prepare yourself with this particular book, and try to ignore the impulse to hunt Harlan down and slap him for this.

    1 of 2 people found this review helpful
  • Ready Player One

    • UNABRIDGED (15 hrs and 46 mins)
    • By Ernest Cline
    • Narrated By Wil Wheaton
    • Whispersync for Voice-ready
    Overall
    (6217)
    Performance
    (5739)
    Story
    (5734)

    At once wildly original and stuffed with irresistible nostalgia, Ready Player One is a spectacularly genre-busting, ambitious, and charming debut—part quest novel, part love story, and part virtual space opera set in a universe where spell-slinging mages battle giant Japanese robots, entire planets are inspired by Blade Runner, and flying DeLoreans achieve light speed.

    Travis says: "ADD TO CART, POWER UP +10000"
    "FINALLY! Something new!"
    Overall
    Performance
    Story

    I saw this book featured on Audible, and then I saw a very positive review for it in Entertainment Weekly, so I figured I would check it out. I AM SO GLAD I DID!!

    I'm normally not into the futuristic type books, but this one worked for me because so many references were of pop culture from the 1980's. I was a child of the 80's so this was very nostalgic for me. The concept of a successful, billionaire, computer genius willing his fortune to the winner of a game he created was a brilliant one. In these days of lightening speed technological advancement, the idea isn't that far-fetched. I could see Steve Jobs doing something like this.

    The main character is a believable, likeable one, and his friends turn out to be very interesting and fun with a few twists. The story is meaty and well-written, and it will hold your interest all the way through. The quest to find the "egg" (as in "Easter Egg" - the term for a hidden object in a videogame), was compelling - even to someone like me who grew up on Mario Bros and Donkey Kong - and who would have no clue how to navigate Call of Duty 3 or even Madden Football. I still got it.

    Wil Wheaton does a FANTASTIC job of narrating this book. I'm not sure if I've heard him work on any other novels, but I intend to research that since I thoroughly enjoyed him. He did what he was supposed to - enhance the story with his performance without being distracting. Not an easy feat as evidenced by some truly annoying narrators.

    All in all, I would highly recommend this book to anyone who grew up in the 80's, to anyone who enjoys a good story, to anyone who has played a videogame in their lifetime, to anyone who is a geek over technology, to anyone who wants to escape for a while. Don't be an asshat by missing this gem.

    5 of 5 people found this review helpful
  • On the Couch

    • ABRIDGED (6 hrs and 30 mins)
    • By Lorraine Bracco
    • Narrated By Lorraine Bracco
    Overall
    (22)
    Performance
    (2)
    Story
    (2)

    Known to millions as psychiatrist Dr. Jennifer Melfi on HBO's hit series The Sopranos, a role for which she has received multiple Emmy, Golden Globe, and Screen Actors Guild nominations, Lorraine Bracco is one of the most recognizable actresses working today. A glamorous and intelligent presence on both the big and small screen, as well as on the Broadway stage, it's hard to imagine that this formidable woman was once voted the "ugliest girl in the sixth grade".

    Eileen says: "A good story about a strong, tough woman"
    "A good story about a strong, tough woman"
    Overall
    Performance
    Story

    I believe The Sopranos was the best show to ever be put on television. Lorraine Bracco's character, Dr. Melfi, was my favorite, and watching the show got me interested in her as a person. This is her memoir and it's also narrated by Lorraine. Overall, it's an interesting story of a woman who struggled through some tough times and went thru a lot of heartache and pain. She managed to learn from her struggles and manifest into one hell of an intelligent, confident, strong female force. Her story is not out of the ordinary and she has the ability to connect with so many women because of this. She is genuine and funny. My only complaint was that some of the things that happened weren't necessarily resolved in the book. I thought a few times - I wish I could call her and ask how this turned out. I guessed that she was trying to get as much of her life into this book as she could, and sometimes certain details had to remain hanging. It's ok though - the overall story was encouraging and could bring a lot of hope and light to women who struggle with some of the same pain and hurt she talks about here. Bless you, Lorraine! You rock!

    1 of 1 people found this review helpful
  • The Girl Who Kicked the Hornet's Nest: The Millennium Trilogy, Book 3

    • UNABRIDGED (20 hrs and 20 mins)
    • By Stieg Larsson
    • Narrated By Simon Vance
    • Whispersync for Voice-ready
    Overall
    (15893)
    Performance
    (6181)
    Story
    (6183)

    Lisbeth Salander—the heart of Larsson’s two previous novels—lies in critical condition, a bullet wound to her head, in the intensive care unit of a Swedish city hospital. She’s fighting for her life in more ways than one: if and when she recovers, she’ll be taken back to Stockholm to stand trial for three murders. With the help of her friend, journalist Mikael Blomkvist, she will not only have to prove her innocence, but also identify and denounce those in authority.

    B.J. says: "Perfect."
    "Slower pace, but still a GREAT story"
    Overall
    Performance
    Story

    The entire "Millenium Series" as I've heard it called which encompasses the three books, "The Girl with The Dragon Tattoo", " The Girl Who Played With Fire" and "The Girl Who Kicked the Hornet's Nest", is one of the best series of "detective" novels I've ever read. It's so different from the product we get from American authors. I'm not saying our authors are bad - I'm saying it is refreshing to read something so different. Maybe it's partly due to the setting being in another country which makes it more exotic to begin with. However, there is much more to it than that.

    The character of Lisbeth Salander is compelling, intriguing and always interesting. She's not exactly lovable from the start, but one can't help but root for her and enjoy her as the story goes on. This is another characteristic I like - the main character is a little "off", and not this perfect super-hero type we all love immediately. We get to know her as the other characters in the story get to know her, and we can decide for ourselves.

    The plots are thick and rich and satisfying - even in this third book which has our main character mostly in a hospital bed. I thought I'd be bored - I wasn't.

    It's a damn shame Stieg Larsson isn't around to see the HUGE success of his work, and an even bigger shame he can't write more. Take the opportunity and check out this series. You'll love it!

    1 of 1 people found this review helpful

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