The Last Drop: The Last Drop, Book 1

De: Andrea Perno

Narrado por: Austin Rising

Jeremy always said Space Academy was Earth's last hope. People only dream of leaving a dying planet in search of better lives. Avery never expected he would be forced to do just that. On the heels of his brother's murder, his father's disappearance, and with Earth's dwindling water supply now contaminated with a deadly virus, Avery and his younger brother have no choice but to leave Earth behind and join the survivors migrating the nearest habitable planet. What they don't know is that the rarity of water extends far beyond Earth, and they aren't the only ones fighting for survival.

©2014 Beau Coup LLC (P)2015 Beau Coup LLC

Intense

I read the second book in this series and went back to read the first book. The idea of running out of water is terrifying. This series takes you on a roller coaster.

Recommended for young adults and older

In the not-to-distant future the world has used up most of its drinkable water through pollution and the results of global warming. The military has erected fortresses around the remaining fresh water sources, but only protects its own and their families. The thirsty hoards outside are left to die of thirst and starvation.

The ruthless General Cade protects his family, but at a high cost. Brutal and erratic, he beats his wife and children. But what choice do they have, stay in fear or die outside. Well, there is one other choice. Leave the planet for another chance on the recently discovered earth-like world only two years travel away. The only problem is, the natives aren’t that welcoming, and water again is scarce.

The several love stories interwoven through the story bring us an understanding of the natives and the brutality of the military humans. Desperate to survive, both sides will do what they have to, to save their people. Cooperation might have helped both, but it is far too late for that.

The Last Drop is a fantasy novel disguised as science fiction. Fantasy allows all us to believe all kinds of magic and powers without question, Science Fiction requires some essence of plausibility. This novel stretches the science too far to be believable. Go into it with this understanding, and it is an enjoyable tale for young adults. The teenage main characters are as ingenious and brave as they are inexperienced and insecure. They do what’s right when the adults just want to destroy everything. We know they are the heroes and hope they will eventually save the day.

The audio is performed by Austin Rising, who has a wonderful voice and an amazing array of character portrayals. The variety is certainly surprisingly broad and interesting, but also sometimes odd. Why do some of the scientists have a kind of “Yosemite Sam” accent? It is only head-scratchingly weird and doesn’t take away from an otherwise fine performance.

The Last Drop is volume one of a series of unknown length. It sort of wraps up as a novel, but clearly is not complete. You’ll want to find out what happens to the main characters, the natives and their world. The groundwork is laid and is just getting started.

Recommended for young adults and older. There is quite a bit of graphic violence, but would only be disturbing to highly sensitive individuals. Sexual encounters are only alluded to and shouldn’t bother most young listeners.

Audiobook provided for review by the author.

Please find this complete review and many others at my review blog

[If this review helped, please press YES. Thanks!]

A great and suspenseful read!

Where does The Last Drop: The Last Drop, Book 1 rank among all the audiobooks you’ve listened to so far?

It ranks near the top of my list. The narrator did a fantastic job; didn't read too slow or too fast.

Who was your favorite character and why?

Clesandra because of her unselfishness at times but also because of her determination.

Have you listened to any of Austin Rising’s other performances before? How does this one compare?

This is the only one if his that I have listened to.

If you were to make a film of this book, what would the tag line be?

Water Is Life

Any additional comments?

Andrea Perno is a a great author who deserves a lot of credit for writing a book that keeps you wanting to read more!

Solid storyline with superb performance

This adventure was something unexpected. The Last Drop mends scif-fi with and all too current reality, diminishing natural resources. The characters create a connection that goes beyond the storyline and has me hooked onto the next book. My favorite part of this was Austin Risings performance! The audio cleanly depicted the energy and fluidity of the scene. I was impressed with the way Rising embodied each character as they left their mark. Perfect fit for this book!

Hopefully not the last drop!

Fun, fantastical and addictive story, and I was disappointed to see this is the narrator's only title - I am sure we will hear more of him soon, a new talent to watch out for!