Deb Branwell

A yawner, but had potential

Revisado: 04-30-23

I have always enjoyed Rachel Hanna’s books, but am very sorry I wasted a credit on this one. It was all I could do to listen to the narrator without grinding my teeth. She added nothing to the story and frankly, took away from it. The story itself had great potential, but it seemed disjointed. It didn’t flow, some things on the bucket list were glossed over or skipped leaving you to create the storyline behind them. Seems the author should do that. So many repetitive lines in the book regarding the deceased friend. There are so many ways the story could have branched out, but for some reason Ms. Hanna chose not to leaving the reader feeling bewildered and cheated.

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Boyer’s Best Yet!

Revisado: 04-14-23

What a fantastic read. I thought I was in love with Susan Boyer’s writing with her Low Country Series, but this one tops those in my opinion. And that is setting the bar high. As with the Low Country Series, the female lead is, are you ready for it? Intelligent. So many times writers make the female lead to be bubble headed and can’t find her way out of a paper sack. Yes, she struggles with relationships with her ex and her father, but not to the point where she needs someone to rescue her from herself. Thank you for writing women as they should be written. As for the story, it was compelling, mysterious, suspenseful. It had surprises built in throughout the book, which was also a bonus. Susan’s descriptions of Sullivan Island its surroundings puts you right in the story. If you are a fan of Susan Boyer, do not miss this gem.

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esto le resultó útil a 13 personas

Must Read About Uncommon Friends Uncommon Family

Revisado: 01-28-23

I have listened to over 100 audio books. This is my second review. That should tell you something. Let me begin by saying, ignore the voice in your head that tells you to stop listening after the first few chapters. It will be a mistake. The story begins slowly for a reason as you will discover.
The Narrators: Fan-flipping-tactic!!! Each character was undeniable. You know immediately who is speaking. Marcellus’s narrator made me believe an octopus might actually sound like that!
The Characters: Each character is rich in this novel, which often does not happen. Their involvement, no matter how small or insignificant they may seem, is an integral part of the weave in the fabric of this story. There were times you wanted to shake or get the attention of a character, but you are rapidly reminded of events that has shaped each one and you immediately have compassion, although still frustrated with them! Each person-and Marcellus the octopus-are beautifully written and you feel you know each intimately by the end.
The Author: I understand this is her first novel. I certainly hope it is not her last! The complexity, yet simplicity with her writing has your brain bouncing all over the place. The author most certainly did her research not only on the geographical area of the setting, but on sea creatures, in particular, the octopus. She beautifully entangles the people, especially widow Tova and her very special connection to Marcellus, the octopus. Her writing will tick most if not all of your emotional responses. A fascinating read wherein I learned a great deal more than I ever knew about the octopus and not in a demeaning or off putting way. In a way that left me wanting to know more. Lastly I will say that the manner in which the chapters fall is flawless. You will not want to fast forward through any of it.
Yes, a MUST read about uncommon friends and uncommon relatives that leads one on a very special journey.
I hope this review was helpful without giving anything regarding the plot away. I anxiously await more of Ms. Van Pelt’s imaginations.

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Must read cozy mystery!

Revisado: 06-16-22

I have read many cozy mysteries but this one tops the list. It is suspenseful, engaging, funny, witty and just downright a good listen.
The narrator is superb. Finally someone who draws you into the story.
My only complaint is that the rest of the series is not available in audio version. I truly wish they were.

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