Cobra Pose

Yoga Mat Mysteries, Book 2

By: Susan Rogers, John Roosen

Narrated by: Rupert Degas

Australia is a surfers’ paradise … but this nefarious surfing on the ‘net’ … will destroy the global financial system.

It’s not just a rippling ‘scam’ job. Has Australia been infiltrated at levels they’ve never known?

Elaina Williams uses a Cobra Pose in her Yoga studio to boost her energy – she will need it! Elaina’s father, Edward, is in trouble. He’s disappeared.

As a solicitor and now yoga instructor, Elaina drags Ric, a man she’s fallen for, into the bursting web of techno-thrilling intrigue.

Ric Peters has just returned from a disastrous trip to Indonesia. Ric bills himself as a photojournalist. Elaina suspects he shoots more than just photographs. Ric has insight into the journey he and Elaina must take. He knows Elaina isn’t ready for what’s going to happen. There are too many moving parts for him to control.

Time is running out before The Cobra and The Wolf strike with their heist. They are extending their fangs towards Australia’s ‘golden coastline’ to bite into and destabilise financial institutions worldwide.

The sparkling city of Brisbane, Australia is the centre of this hacking tsunami of the century! But these hackers are good at hiding. They make a living out of it. They are submerged Phantoms leaving no tracks.

Can the burgeoning amateur sleuth Elaina piece this puzzle together before her father’s fate is sealed? How far is Ric willing to go in deciding to save Elaina … or Australia?

Cobra Pose is the suspense-thriller and second novel in the Yoga Mat Mysteries series with a snappy plot, dynamic prose, witty dialogue, and slow-burn chemistry.

See also Dead Man's Pose and Tree Pose.

©2023 Susan Rogers and John Roosen (P)2023 Susan Rogers and John Roosen

A Thrilling Journey Through Suspense and Intrigue

I just finished listening to Cobra Pose by Susan Rogers & John Roosen , narrated by the incredible Rupert Degas, and I must say, it was a thrilling ride from beginning to end! As a fan of the Yoga Mat Mysteries series, with previous favorites like Dead Man’s Pose and Tree Pose, I was eager to dive into this middle installment—and it did not disappoint. Reading them out of order isn’t normal for me, but I will say that this story is the PERFECT connection between the first and the third story.

The storyline in Cobra Pose is absolutely fascinating. It weaves together a web of techno-thrilling intrigue that had me hooked. Elaina Williams, our amateur sleuth and yoga instructor, is thrust into a dangerous plot involving global financial destabilization, and her journey is both gripping and exhilarating. The relationship building between Elaina and Ric adds so much depth to the story; their genuine concern and confusion felt so real and really enhanced the overall experience.

What I loved most about Cobra Pose is how it kept me on my toes. The plot bounces around, keeping the listener delightfully confused and always guessing what’s coming next. I truly enjoyed not knowing where the story was headed, which made the twists and turns all the more exciting. It’s definitely my favorite in the series so far—the world, the people, and the relationships are all top-notch.

And I can’t forget to mention Rupert Degas’s narration. He is absolutely incredible. He nails the characters perfectly and captures the “voice” that Rogers & Roosen envisioned for this story. His dynamic performance brings the suspense and wit of the prose to life, making the audiobook a must-listen.

If you’re looking for an engaging suspense-thriller that entertains and keeps you guessing, Cobra Pose is the perfect choice. Whether you’re a long-time fan of the Yoga Mat Mysteries or new to the series, this audiobook offers a heart-pounding adventure that’s both fun and captivating.

So roll out your yoga mat, settle in, and get ready for a journey that will stretch your imagination and keep you thoroughly entertained!

This audiobook left me speechless!

Story Impressions –


Wow, I’m speechless after listening to this audiobook. What an ending! What a story! What a beautifully written and acted techno-thriller. I was hooked from the prologue. The amount of research Susan and John must’ve done to create such an intricate and technical plot. Even the AI characters were expertly written. I couldn’t stop listening to this audiobook. Hands down, one of the best audiobooks I’ve ever heard.


Narrator’s overall voice –

Rupert Degas has a gift for voice acting. I think his voice works really well for this incredible techno-thriller. He expresses the nuances of the story and the setting using a variety of inflections and tones.


Does the narrator fit the characters?

Characters so real and accurately portrayed, you'd think you were experiencing it for yourself. So yes, the narrator fits these characters, even the AI characters.


Narrator’s reading style –

His reading style is professional and remarkable. He uses different voices for each character in addition to the narrator.


Narrator’s impact on reading experience –

Rupert Degas breathes life into Susan Rogers and John Roosen’s emotional techno-thriller. It’s a wonderful collaboration and makes for an astonishing listening experience.


Narrator’s pacing –

The pacing is superb with just the right amount of dramatic flair.


Audiobook flow –

The audiobook flow is flawless. There are times when I got so caught up in the story, I stopped what I was doing and listened.


What makes this audiobook unique –

The different voices Rupert Degas uses make this a unique listening experience. His talent for orating really comes across in this audiobook.


Would I recommend this audiobook –

YES! It’s one of those audiobooks that’ll make your heart race while listening.


My Rating: 5+ stars

A Compelling Mystery with Fantastic Narration

As a yoga teacher, Elaina Williams knows all about the calming, rejuvenating effects of her practice. But even she can’t escape the pull of real-world chaos every now and then. With her companion Ric Peters, she embarks on what she wishes could be a tranquil trip to Brisbane. But alas, it’s not a vacation; it’s a mission. Elaina’s father has mysteriously vanished. His last communication was nothing short of odd, creating a whirlwind of worry in Elaina’s mind. Upon scrutinizing her father’s final message, she knows that the situation is nothing short of critical. Leaning on Ric’s strength and support, she resolves to uncover the truth about her father’s disappearance.

Susan Rogers and John Roosen bring us the exciting second book of the Yoga Mat Mysteries series, “Cobra Pose.” The story pivots around Elaina’s courageous quest to uncover the truth about her father’s disappearance. Ric, who happens to be Elaina’s romantic partner, stands by her side as a pillar of strength, providing valuable assistance as their search intensifies. The relationship between Elaina and Ric feels real, infused with tangible energy that resonates deeply with readers.

Rogers and Roosen have a gift for storytelling, drawing listeners into the narrative from the get-go. While Elaina and Ric are undeniably the driving force behind this installment, a rich tapestry of secondary characters adds nuance and depth to the story. And what’s more, these characters are brought to life beautifully by Rupert Degas’s incredible narration. His vocal prowess lends authenticity to the characters, making their experiences feel all the more real. Rogers and Roosen’s depiction of the blossoming relationship between Elaina and Ric, beginning in the first book and evolving in this sequel, reflects their mastery over dialogue creation.

I recommend “Cobra Pose” to all mystery lovers. If you’re a fan of complex plots, compelling characters, and a sprinkling of romance, you’ll undoubtedly enjoy the series.

A thrilling, smartly written, and riveting mystery

Narrator Rupert Degas returns to create another suspense-filled performance of Authors Susan Rogers and John Roosen’s latest outing featuring solicitor and yoga instructor Elaina Williams and photojournalist Ric Peters.

When Dr. Edward Williams, Elaina’s father, goes missing under suspicious circumstances, Elaina knows something is amiss. She asks her boyfriend Ric Peters to help her look into the disappearance. A sinister conspiracy of international consequences unfolds as the pair ruthlessly look for the clues. The case takes them across several locations of Australia’s golden coastline and further to Brisbane, Queensland. With time running out for Edward, they must hurry.

Authors Susan Rogers and John Roosen have created a winding story of sinister secrets, lies, and intrigue that extends far beyond one missing person. The narrative ricochets between the tense crime investigation and human drama as Elaina and Ric work together to unravel the truth behind Elaina’s father’s disappearance.

Elaina’s mental anguish over her father’s disappearance is convincing, and her steadfast determination to uncover the conspiracy makes her a winning protagonist. Ric acts as an endearing counterpart to Elaina. The romance between the couple is convincing.

Rupert Degas perfectly delivers the urgency of the story’s drama. His narration pairs well with the authors’ taut plotting. He builds tension with subtle changes in tone and rhythm, deftly differentiating the large cast of characters: some new, some old, some good, some devious, all of whom move the story along at a steady pace. Cozy mystery buffs should snatch it up.

Engaging Mystery, Action-Packed

Together Ric and Elaina are thrust deeply into yet another mystery but this one is a bit more personal. Elaina’s father is missing and activity on the deep dark web threatens the finances of the world. It is up to Elaina and Ric and other unique characters to save Elaina’s father and defeat The Cobra and The Wolf before financial ruin is delivered worldwide!

Susan Rogers and John Roosen, the authors, weave a uniquely engaging mystery with rich and vibrant characters. The dialogue keeps the story moving forward as does the development of each character. Combined with rich dialogue, Rogers and Roosen provide vivid descriptions of Australia as well. The story is action-packed. Their ability to cowrite seamlessly is amazing. In addition, they carefully weave crime and human drama richly and smoothly engaging the listener fully. I find their writing magnetic and thrilling.

The narrator, Rupert Degas delivers another superb performance! His delivery and cadence are smooth and flawless. His energy flows flawlessly through the narration. His unique voices help keep the characters straight for his listeners and he captures/projects the personality of each vividly. His accent and tone of voice are perfect!

This is a great series to follow with strong writers and an equally strong narrator! Don’t miss this!

There were no issues with the quality or production of this audiobook.