Pont Neuf by Max Byrd, Natasha Soudek (Narrator)

4 out of 5 stars  ****

Historical Fiction about WW II and a young female war correspondent, Annabella March, Annie, who studies the famous Martha Gelhorn while in France, 1944. Annie becomes a great photographer preferring pictures to words. She meets two Harvard bred officers, one, a truly courageous soldier and the other, an officer who does not see the front line action his Harvard buddy does. It is Gelhorn's influence and notoriety that permits Annie access to these officers and planners of war tactics. She discovers the politics and ego-driven decisions in wartime that unnecessarily result in the deaths of so many men. Her association with Martha also grants her an insult from Martha's estranged husband, Earnest Hemmingway. Annie desires to share herself with the courageous soldier but the timing is rotten. Germany is about to launch the Battle of the Bulge and all allied troops must direct their attention to this famous, historical event. Pont Neuf , French for New Bridge, crosses the Seine River in Paris. This is the location of the last scene for this story. What precedes this scene is the heroic victory of the allies over their enemy and the terrible cost it exacts on Annie's soldier. A decision to follow orders or follow one's heart creates the suspenseful tension in the epilogue leaving listeners with a tearful reminder that war destroys the conquered and devastates victors. It affects all who participate.

Explore the Bible: Numbers; Deuteronomy by Mike Livingstone (Editor)

5 out of 5 stars  *****

The Israelites, led by Moses, head toward the Promised Land. Numbers tells of the great trials and tribulations of a saved and consecrated people, at Mt Sinai; who, two generations, wander in the desert for 40 years because the first rebelled against Moses and God so often. The second generation prepares for war having their faith in the One true God and the Ark of the Covenant to protect them. Moses passes away before the tribe enters the Promised Land but he makes Joshua Judge and leader. Deuteronomy tells of the teachings by Moses to the second generation who must learn the Israelite history so that they know Abraham, whom God makes a Covenant, is their ancestral father and they are about to fulfill that covenant with their actions in the Holy Land. Moses stresses the need to follow the law of God, the Ten Commandments, and to obey God's will in their enormous endeavor or suffer being scattered throughout the world. The Israelites fail to obey and suffer the fate of this warning. The stories and messages from these two books are sources from which Jesus refers approximately 1600 years later. In Deuteronomy Peter identifies Jesus as the one prophesied to rise up in the future and lead his people like Moses. When Satan tempts Jesus in the desert, where he fasts for 40 days, Jesus refers to Deuteronomy with His immediate responses telling Satan that man does not live by bread alone (Deuteronomy 8:3), not to test God but have faith in Him (Deuteronomy 6:16) and to worship no one but God, alone (Deuteronomy 6:13 and 10:20). When a scholar of the law asks Jesus what is the greatest commandment, Jesus responds with Deuteronomy 6:5 which states that obedience follows supreme love of God. Deuteronomy 6:4-9 is known as the "Shema" in Judaism, the most famous Old Testament passage. Explore the Bible: Numbers; Deuteronomy is a study that confirms prophesy that Jesus Christ is essential as the one perfect, obedient son of man and God worthy of sacrifice for mankind's sins. He did not come to this world to teach obedience of God's law; rather, to sacrifice His life out of the great love of God, our Father, so that people may follow Him and receive salvation through Him who knew no sin.  Faith saves through the grace of God.  Good works are a result of great love but not sufficient, alone, for salvation.

Ruffian: Burning From the Start (Kindle Edition) by Jane Schwartz

4 out of 5 stars  ****

A mare who wins every race in which she participates and sets records at every track, Ruffian is far and away the best filly to grace the sport of horse racing. All ten of her races are against other mares; so the stage is set for her to prove to the "Sport of Kings" enthusiasts that she can beat the best male stud, Foolish Pleasure, winner of the Kentucky Derby. The match race is set and the sport reaps the rewards of a packed stadium to view the spectacle. What the fans witness is one of the most remarkable competitions that leaves a lasting, unexpected memory in the history of such a demanding sport.

This story is so much more than a sporting event. It is the human experience of love many have for excellence, grace, and beauty regardless of species. In this way, Jane Schwartz touches the soul that spiritually connects people. Readers are right there with the characters, who are unique in their own right. This true story evokes the sublime with sudden tragedy that transports human sympathies to depths no one thought capable of feeling. It is peculiar that people's desire to pit these two magnificent animals against each other in this contest is for their own foolish pleasure.

The Half-Life of Marie Curie by Lauren Gunderson, Kate Mulgrew (Narrator), Francesca Faridany (Narrator)

5 out of 5 stars  *****

I am transported back in time to the days of radio when it is the only medium for entertainment besides the stage. I absolutely love this performance. The short story about Marie Curie, her accomplishments, and her scandalous affair, pointed out by her dear British friend as a double standard, brings me to tears and laughter during poignant professional portrayals by Francesca Faridany and Kate Mulgrew. Its production is a work of art with sounds of life in the background and dialogue delivery worthy of an academy award. The story captivates as I learn more about the two-time Nobel Prize winner. The storytelling in this format is simply a pleasure when those responsible for the outcome are artists, themselves.

Meditations of Marcus Aurelius by Marcus Aurelius, Alan Munro (Narrator )

3 out of 5 stars  ***

I find this Audiobook tedious, like listening to Plato and Aristotle. Marcus Aurelius belongs in their company. His introspection is deep and his explanations meticulous. Diligent focus is necessary for a fair opportunity to absorb the gems of thought Marcus expresses.

I can listen to a novel while going about my normal activities of daily living without losing the story line or confusing characters. Not so with Meditations of Marcus Aurelius. His spoken train of thought requires close attention for any hope of understanding. Differences in expressing similar ideas also lends itself to my adjusting listening skills.

I appreciate Marcus Aurelius, very much. His reference to the people he admires for various reasons is most commendable. Marcus lives in a time Roman Emperors rule as deified entities. He sees the greed, arrogance, and utter power of some who demonstrate the ugly side of humanity. His role models are those who emulate a morality that considers life as a part of everything in nature. The best a man can do is observe and know his own nature during his lifetime. This thoughtful man knows the loss of discernment by pursuing his own desires. Discipline becomes a part of his life as well as compassion for creation, including others. He knows there is a God or gods that are responsible for the genius of that creation and he is but a creature in it.

This author shares his philosophy with his Meditations of Marcus Aurelius. I encourage anyone who is willing to give his work the time and attention it demands to listen to this Audiobook without distractions. It is a mind, full. I understand why Marcus Aurelius is one of the most quoted philosophers today on morality and leadership.

Faith's Checkbook: A 365 Day Devotional by Charles Haddon Spurgeon

5 out of 5 stars  *****

A daily devotional by one of Christianity's most inspirational and devout preachers from England at a time of waning faith. Many a morning I wake with a certain demeanor and improve upon that attitude after reading this pocket-size book of inspiration. I want to share, so many times, by citing the scripture and Spurgeon's thoughts for a particular day. I realize how profound the moment is to me and pray to exhibit God's wisdom eloquently spoken through this pastor's pen.

Books of this nature are so valuable because they keep me on the path closest to Jesus Christ. When I stray I am checked by the Holy Spirit's conviction that causes me to feel guilt and shame. Then I repent and give thanks to God for the freedom to pursue men of this caliber with their spiritual influence in my life as I turn, once again, away from sin and obey His word. I am a better man because of reading this as it develops my personal communication with my Maker. Amen.

Day by Day with Billy Graham: 365 Daily Meditations by Billy Graham, Joan Winmill Brown

5 out of 5 stars  *****

An inspirational daily devotional that nourishes my soul first thing every morning. Billy Graham cites Bible scripture each day and follows it with a daily application for that verse. It is just what I need to read, hear, contemplate, and incorporate into my life as each morning opens my relationship with my Creator through Jesus Christ and the Holy Spirit. My introspection humbles me in these moments of Truth.