In Touch Daily Readings for Devoted Living December 2021 by Dr. Charles Stanley

 

5 out of 5 stars  *****

Dr. Charles Stanley shares in this devotional for December, 2021, reminders of how faith blesses believers, compassion values community, and humility honors God within the Christ family. Today's struggles intimidate less, worries diffuse, peace and joy return with the wisdom each page brings every morning. When angst arises or regret descends, In Touch Daily Readings for Devoted Living aligns perspective and attitude with God's will for stability in reality, the present moment. Regardless of circumstance, it gently refreshes. Once again God's word rejuvenates in love. 

The Late Middle Ages by Philip Daileader

 

5 out of 5 stars  *****

An entertaining, revealing education on the Late Middle Ages with background information filling in the already known history of this period of time. It is amazing how religion dominates the course of events until science and logic by brave individuals publish their findings which challenge the beliefs of the day. Many such figures suffer for their boldness but the communication of their ideas inspire those who elaborate and expand upon liberal ideas in order to discover and live in the truth.

Missions from the Extinction Cycle (Volume 1) by Nicholas Sansbury Smith (Goodreads Author) (Foreword), Jeff Olah (Goodreads Author), Mark Tufo (Goodreads Author), Rachel Aukes (Goodreads Author), Anthony Melchiorri (Contributor), Russell Blake (Goodreads Author), Bronson Pinchot (Narrator)

 

5 out of 5 stars  *****

Mankind turns into Creatures of Mass Destruction from natural or scientific mutations in the horror themed short stories of Missions from the Extinction Cycle (Volume 1). The authors capture the terror in the remaining population of normal citizens as they cope with survival in a hellish world. The attraction of a gory story is not mutilation nor bloody bodies. It is the human spirit facing foreboding fear, staying alive, and appreciating loved ones. The vivid imaginations and expressive talent of these storytellers deliver chills with thrills in each adventure.

Laptop from Hell: Hunter Biden, Big Tech, and the Dirty Secrets the President Tried to Hide by Miranda Devine

 

5 out of 5 stars  *****

A story of intrigue and international excess, clandestine deals make certain countries richer and create world class moguls out of particular families. This story is authored by the characters who text, email, and record one another on the Laptop from Hell. Miranda Devine provides some documented histories of the main characters which meshes with their behavior choices. This brings a human consideration to light in the global stage where pressure persists to produce for the right people or suffer grave consequences. Great sums of money and its waste occupy much of this story's revelations. Opinions are bound to change after learning what is on this interesting, yet sad, Laptop from Hell.

Infinite 2 (Infinite #2) by Jeremy Robinson (Goodreads Author), R.C. Bray (Narrator)

 

5 out of 5 stars  *****

The space adventure that involves the fate of mankind continues in the universe of science and improbable circumstances. Sentient entities and programmed scenarios create much of the drama that fills the void in the protagonist's trek through space.

Jeremy Robinson's imagination and knowledge of scientific methods enable this epic tale to be possible but not probable. The science is so advanced that the question, "Who is God?" arises but remains unanswered. Overall, Robinson's talent as a writer keeps his audience suspended in a thrilling quest for a peaceful happy ending in the infinite. 

Infinite by Jeremy Robinson (Goodreads Author), R.C. Bray (Narrator)

5 out of 5 stars  *****

A Science Fiction story as epic as the universe.  Time and great distance are key elements in space travel necessitating man and machine's cooperation.  <u>Infinite</u> addresses the ill fate of mankind from Earth and Martians from Mars unless a mission to find and colonize an acceptable planet is successful.  The author, Robinson, expands the capabilities of his characters to allow an infinite number of possible scenarios. What transpires is Jeremy's eloquent, plain-spoken tale that lives and dies just to rejuvenate and repeat.  Philosophical questions knit each sequence of events involving everything human and everything else
 

In Touch Daily Reading for Devoted Living November 2021 by Dr. Charles Stanley

 

5 out of 5 stars  *****

I am blessed to read the In Touch daily devotional series. November's pages inspire, comfort, and direct the soul toward the righteous path doing everything in love. The readings are opportunities to be still with the Holy Spirit in an observational listen. I go through the day with a proper perspective and peace from being in touch with His Word.

Explore the Bible: Philippeans, Colossians, Philemon Fall 2021 (Mass Market Paperback) by Bob Bunn

 

Philippians, Colossians, and Philemon are discussed in bible study using this study guide as a reference for discussion.  The Apostle Paul writes of friendship and its foundation in love.  Paul also denotes the significance of free will to choose friendship over ownership which demonstrates one's willingness to genuinely love as Jesus Christ shows by His death on the cross for everyone's sins.  A major theme throughout the study is Thanksgiving, recognizing God as the One Supreme Being who makes us out of love in His likeness.  Paul never demands using his religious authority but, rather, requests spiritual maturity in humility and praise of God, obedient to His will is one's ultimate goal.

 

Dean Koontz's Frankenstein, Volume 1: Prodigal Son

 

5 out of 5 stars  *****

Frankenstein's Monster is a worldwide celebrity in the Science Fiction, Horror, and Literature world. Mary Shelly writes supposedly the first Science Fiction novel published in 1818.  Frankenstein: Prodigal Son is Dean Koontz's contemporary monster related to Shelly's creation.  Koontz imagines a series of monsters assembled over time, one line differing from another by the mad doctor's improvements. Ultimately, the new and improved monsters are to replace humans as the dominant life group in the world. The monsters begin to grasp their own powerful abilities and life and death, creation, God, and morality become factors to consider.

The body of Frankenstein versions on paper and film is great. Frankenstein: Prodigal Son is a spinoff that stays true to Shelly's genre masterpiece while entertaining with a new story. Koontz develops interesting characters who surround and support the lead roles. Though the monster is not his original creation, his created scenarios intrigue the minds of readers and listeners in a unique Koontz fashion.

The Madness of Crowds (Chief Inspector Armand Gamache #17) by Louise Penny (Goodreads Author)

 

5 out of 5 stars  *****

A full and rich story about a controversial issue during a contemporary time in a Canadian setting. First, there is a murder attempt in a crowded auditorium; then later, a murder among likely suspects. This opens the door for a host of interesting characters with fascinating backgrounds. The art of detective work is intelligently demonstrated by the protagonist. All facets of intertwined relationships including ethics, emotions, and duty are woven into the story's framework. The author writes with continuity of thought, action, and outcome that are logical though veiled. Reading/listening is a pleasure as mystery navigates through human conditions present in today's world. An excellently written murder mystery that dares to posture morality against statistics and their possible interpretations.

In Touch Daily Readings for Devoted Living October 2021 by Dr. Charles Stanley

 

October's devotionals are themed in sharing the light one has as a child of God. The benefits affect others besides oneself and ultimately praise God. It is such a positive way to start each day and familiarize oneself with scripture that informs and nourishes souls.

We Are All the Same in the Dark by Julia Heaberlin (Goodreads Author), Jenna Lamia (Narrator), Catherine Taber (Narrator), MacLeod Andrews (Narrator), Kirby Heyborne (Narrator)

 

A very good storyline that holds one's interest from beginning to end. The characters have unusual names; however, they are common in Texas. The characters also possess unusual peculiarities that create an unspoken suspense throughout the unsolved mystery, a cold case involving a beautiful little girl, murdered, and an intuitive connection between she and the protagonist, a young female cop who has her own history with the deceased. The elements and characters in the author's mind are believably developed and researched before Julia Heaberlin commits them to We Are All the Same in the Dark. The genuine sense of tragic reality pulses in her pages until closure, or something like it, awaits its conclusion.

In Touch: Daily Readings For Devoted Living: September 2021 by Dr. Charles Stanley

 

5 of 5 stars  *****

These devotionals from Dr. Charles Stanley stop the slide on the slippery slope that is contentment with selfish goals and behavior. It is not peace of mind that comes from obeying and serving God. It is His will that will be done, regardless, and alignment with Him through Jesus Christ and the Holy Spirit opens the channels for God's graces.

September's issue teaches about living a life that accepts those hungry to hear the Word, sharing it as a light in the world, respecting boundaries, and realizing the earth is our everlasting home once renewed.

Dead Until Dark (Sookie Stackhouse, #1) by Charlaine Harris (Goodreads Author), Johanna Parker (Narrator)

 

 

5 out of 5 stars  *****

A few years ago I binged True Blood, the television series of the Sookie Stackhouse story. I was captivated then and I was just as captured with this Audiobook. The narrator sounded exactly like Anna Paquin portraying Sookie. This added to the delight. I found the story just as provocative and thrilling.

The elements of vampires with humans is very popular these days. That fascination explodes in 2008 with the airing of True Blood. Dead Until Dark brings back the people, geography, and feelings to me. It is easy to listen to a story so well written and performed. The few differences between the book and the HBO series is negligible.

Forensics: What Bugs, Burns, Prints, DNA and More Tell Us About Crime by Val McDermid, Sarah Barron (Narrator)

 

5 out of 5 stars  *****

The history and application of forensics is a very fascinating and revealing subject. Val McDermid takes one on the journey of discovery that takes the high road for truth, a most noble endeavor for humanity. The science is critical and the accuracy demanding if one is to be taken seriously as a valid entry of evidence in courts. If the forensics of the time, along with the scrutiny of judge and jury, is not enough to convict, all evidence is saved as a cold case for future applications of new techniques that shed light onto the subject. This scientific search for the truth is the impetus one needs to seek justice, incarcerate the guilty, and prevent further harm. 

 

Sharp Objects by Gillian Flynn (Goodreads Author), Ann Marie Lee (Reading)

 

5 out of 5 stars  *****

Well written and developed, Sharp Objects, keeps one interested with its macabre plot and fascinating characters. Seen through the eyes of one potential victim, this journalistic journey fleshes out the personalities of the past in order to understand the dilemma of the present. The protagonist is a "cutter" and scarred by that unresolved past. The therapeutic assignment of returning to the hometown where bizarre murders of children resume also reveals closet demons.

NPC by Jeremy Robinson (Goodreads Author), R.C. Bray (Narrator), Jeffrey Kafer (Goodreads Author) (Narrator)

5 out of 5 stars  *****

Fantastic story, excellent writing, intriguing concepts. Jeremy Robinson stretches the imagination with deep philosophical potentials of reality. The story that emerges from NPC is filled with interesting characters of various backgrounds. The plot is engaging but not too revealing as to predict a conclusion. The daring mix of religion with science (fiction) works well on the quest for truth. This gives the story a visceral connection to mankind's dilemma, faith.

 

In Touch Daily Readings for Devoted Living (August 2021) by Dr. Charles Stanley

 

5 out of 5 stars  *****

Another month, another daily inspirational beginning to each day. August's 2021 edition focuses on how Christ meets every need, not every desire or expectation. This wholeness produces freedom to be Christlike, patient in faith, trusting in truth.

Explore the Bible: Personal Study Guide Jobs; Ecclesiastes Summer 2021 by Mike Livingston (Editor)

 

5 out of 5 stars  *****

A profound observation of life and its meaning is written by King Solomon, one of the wealthiest, wisest sages of ancient history. The subject is bleak in his writings at times but inspirational when he states that there is a place and time for everything and to everything there is a purpose. The message ultimately conveys that life is meaningless without God.

Dance Upon the Air (Three Sisters Island, #1) by Nora Roberts (Goodreads Author), Sandra Burr (Narrator)

4 out of 5 stars  ****

I enjoy Nora Roberts style of writing and storytelling. Dance Upon the Air (Three Sisters Island, #1) holds my attention with interest. She fleshes out her characters well enough to bring them alive in the narration. Roberts spends proper consideration on the elements that make her novel flow easily. The protagonist and her key supportive relationships are fresh and exciting when Nora introduces them. The antagonist builds tension with little introduction in the beginning, a looming presence in the body, and a climactic appearance in the anticipated end. I would rate this book a five-star review if the plot did not feel like, Sleeping With the Enemy, so much. It does not matter that it does because the fantasy twist is a delightful diversion.

 

Open Book by Jessica Simpson, Kevin Carr O'Leary (Goodreads Author)

 

5 out of 5 stars  *****

A refreshing break from my regular reading/listening list, Open Book, author narrated, is a memoir by Jessica Simpson, whose major life events always make headlines. Jessica reveals the hard work, struggle and sacrifice that create the fantastic success of the Simpsons. It is a family effort and a Christian base that fortifies the necessary strength necessary to transition life's growth in the very competitive business of entertainment.

Jessica talks about all the times I remember as a casual admirer of her talent and beauty. Brutal honesty can be very healing. Jessica demonstrates this with her healing process in a seemingly glamorous life that overcomes inappropriate touching and bullying. Simpson lets me into her innermost feelings at times, when she reads tender passages that pull at her heart. The breaking of her voice betrays the effort to keep it together during the read.

Honest effort is the best anyone can achieve regardless of fame, stature, or isolation. Overcoming life's problems is not a task avoided by success or money. An autobiography like this connects us to the stars that seem unreachable; who shine in the limelight while struggling and hurting in reality.

This biographic lesson perseveres the world, resides in faith, and blossoms in sound, healthy relationships. Jessica's talent as a singer and song writer is a pleasant gift at the end of the audiobook. It is evidence of the sex symbol's deepening maturity, loving oneself as is.

In Touch: Daily Readings for Devoted Living: July 2021 by Dr. Charles Stanley

 

5 out of 5 stars  *****

July's daily devotionals provide spiritual growth and perspective for proper Christian behavior. A routine start of each day involves introspection, a valuable exercise when communion with the Holy Spirit emits truth. This makes discernment easier in a fallen world. Each day of the month offers a reading that shifts conscious desires from worldliness to spirituality. This devotional allows peace of mind to exist in the daily struggles one may encounter because the scrutiny of free will originates with God first; then, everything else.

 

The Order of Time by Carlo Rovelli, Benedict Cumberbatch (Narrator)

 

 

5 out of 5 stars  *****

Fascinating book about the fabric of space and time, the concrete and abstract, the where and the when of life. Working theories and present day models which mathematically support such theories constitute the bulk of the book. Carlo Rovelli refers to three giants in this field, Aristotle, Newton, and Einstein, who venture far beyond the familiar acceptance of relative time; but Rovelli also mentions the invaluable genius work of many who develop the study of time, represented by the letter, "T", in their formulae. A most intriguing aspect is that time is associated with events more than components that shape and form some tangible object. The laws that affect time are also not what one expects; such as gravity which pulls in and slows down time. That force also shapes space and all of its particles. This book opens the mind to the possibilities only visited in Science Fiction. It is for the curious, if they have the time.

Man's Search for Meaning by Viktor E. Frankl, Simon Vance (Goodreads Author) (Read by)

 

 

5 out of 5 stars  *****

A profound insight into life and death can only come from one who experiences life and death at close quarters, escapes death, and lives to not only write about it but practice his logotherapy which helps people identify spiritual problems that lead to most other problems. Basically, Frankl discovers that suffering in German Concentration Camps causes one to choose how they cope and that those who have meaning or purpose in life cope best. In wartime this means survival or not. This memoir is a fascinating horror story written in the truth about World War II and of what people are capable. The indominable human spirit and a genius psychology is the product of such a tragic lesson.

An Astronaut's Guide to Life on Earth: What Going to Space Taught Me About Ingenuity, Determination, and Being Prepared for Anything by Chris Hadfield

5 out of 5 stars  *****

This book dispels the flashy extravagance of the life of an astronaut and documents the constant classroom and simulation testing the job requires. Retired Colonel and Astronaut, Chris Hadfield, eloquently shares his story about what it takes to be capable, competent, and composed in life-threatening situations. An autobiographic account of his historic and meaningful life includes his relationship with family, friends, places, and teams.

Many sacrifices are necessary to accomplish the goals he and his wife establish. To be an astronaut emotional stability and even general attitude are critical. Character building depends on so many factors that shape an individual's life. The author/narrator recounts days working on the family farm where he learns accountability by fixing the things he breaks. As he matures and marries he encounters difficult decisions that demand selfless sacrifices; especially, separation from family for extended periods of time.

The recall of making the elite list and getting assigned to a mission is quite a feat. With that honor comes great responsibility. Hadfield always thinks, "What could kill me next?" Because of this he sweats the small stuff. He thinks of endless scenarios about what could go wrong, then simulates them to work out solutions, ahead of time.

Reality contrasts with appearances when a hero welcome plops the returning astronauts down in front of the world to answer questions in the frenzied hoopla going on around them. The fact that most have to be carried to the interview, stopping along the way to retch, is not too apparent. Cataloging the pros and cons of weightlessness for five months and then returning to Earth's gravity provides another arena for study and improvement.

The Learning Brain by Thad A. Polk

 

5 out of 5 stars  *****

A delightful series of seminars about the brain, how it works, and how one can best utilize it to maximize potential. The expert author and presenter, Thad A. Polk, is eloquent in his scholarly explanations that include example tests and thoughtful imaginings. These lectures are both stimulating and encouraging to those who give up trying to learn because of harmful habits and other self-induced obstacles. Polk's upbeat presentation assures that anyone can improve with time and honest effort applied to any endeavor. 

In Touch Daily Readings for Devoted Living: June by Charles Stanley

 

5 out of 5 stars  *****

Dr. Charles Stanley's monthly devotional, In Touch Daily Readings for Devoted Living: June, addresses my needs and spiritual development on a daily basis. Some days are uncanny in knowing what I need most for that day. Keeping myself in God's word uplifts my attitude to a more steadfast awareness of God's constant presence. It only takes my effort to read a daily passage to maintain a communion with the Creator who creates from love. Praise be to He Who tests in difficult times to shape my faith and hone my spiritual maturity.

How to Destroy America in Three Easy Steps by Ben Shapiro

 

5 out of 5 stars  *****

Recent elections clearly show two parties having completely differing worldviews. Ben Shapiro writes and narrates an excellent historical account of the United States describing Leftist Progressives as Disintegrationists and those who want to uphold the US Constitution, Conservatives, as Unionists. His choice of labels is befitting because, like the US Civil War, one side wants to break the Union while the other fights to preserve it.

Understanding history is so important because it can reflect upon a nation's people as either good or bad. The truth is that history is full of people who are both good and bad vying for the same location, treasure, and power. The results are survivals of the fittest and the means are oftentimes cruel and alarming. Shapiro clarifies that despite mankind's atrocities, much good results from the outcomes of clashing cultures.

Shapiro astutely informs how this Disintegrationist movement exists stronger today than ever. Its chief proponents are many Liberal professors and teachers in college, middle-schools, and even in grade schools. Their agenda is to indoctrinate America's youth in an ongoing process to eliminate the Bill of Rights and rewrite the US Constitution. The mainstream media (MSM) is also in bed with the Left. The author aptly identifies Disintegrationists as un-American.

The alarm this book rings, backed by citations of evidence, is the destruction of these United States of America with a seductive, subversive view that America is an evil entrenched in a society that must be overthrown to deliver a fair and just government that is centralized to properly take care of its citizens. This viewpoint denies that unalienable rights exist and asserts that only government can provide solutions to America's problems. 

The United States history begins in 1776 with the Revolutionary War. Disintegrationists say that 1619, the advent of the first black slave brought to this country, marks its inception, even though America did not exist, then. It is a colony of the British Empire at that time.

This book concludes with hope and thankfulness. Disintegrationists want to divide Americans to conquer America. Unionists want to unite Americans because that is what makes us great. Regardless of faults or differences, man can rise above these challenges with love in their hearts for their fellow man. This freedom is protected by the US Constitution which stands the test of time as the greatest document of its kind. 

In Touch Daily Readings for devoted Living May 2021 by Dr Charles F. Stanley

 5 out of 5 stars  *****

This devotional issue beautifully expresses how Jesus Christ is our strength and refuge. Stanley describes how our differences are blessings, each with qualities to better serve God in one capacity or another. The bible is clear that God tests and the devil tempts. Giving in to temptation only leads to destruction. May's devotional shows how trials build and strengthen individuals who strive to live a life that is pleasing to God. 

Explore the Bible: Personal study Guide: Luke 10-24 Spring 2021 by Matt Capps

 

5 out of 5 stars  *****

This bible study asks who one thinks Jesus is. The apostle, Luke, reveals Jesus's ministry in Galilee, Judea, Perea, and Jerusalem to answer this question. Faith is required for salvation and it is strengthened by testing a person's beliefs. Luke covers the ultimate test of love in writing about the betrayal, trials, crucifixion and burial. The study ends with the resurrection, Great Commission, and Christ's ascension.

The bible study keeps the word of God alive and familiar in my life of striving to be my best. Its message is always fresh and rewarding. I am humbled and uplifted.

Sci-Phi: Science Fiction as Philosophy (Great Courses) by David Kyle Johnson (Goodreads Author)

3 stars out of 5  ***

The subject is interesting but some of the psychological/philosophical explanations are too long verging on the edge of monotony. It is enlightening to hear a scholars analysis of past Sci-Fi movies and novels. Many are fascinating concepts but less fascinating books and movies.
 

Killing Crazy Horse: The Merciless Indian Wars in America by Bill O'Reilly (Goodreads Author), Martin Dugard (Goodreads Author)

 

5 out of 5 stars  *****

I relish this transportation back to the 1800's to view and contemplate our nation's recent history. The collaboration of O'Reilly and Dugard produces another interesting portrayal of events based on expert investigation and actual documents by government and individual citizens. The writing style places me in Indian Territories with maps that orient my adventure. The tension of clashing cultures raises moral and ethical questions that are passionately displayed on both sides, Indians versus Predominantly white settlers. Mexico is another player in this actual drama but it is not as aggressive as the New World's latest inhabitants, Americans expanding their horizons to live a better life. Unfortunately, expansion comes at a price that affects everyone it touches. These chapters depict hardship and sorrow that trace their path from injustice, strife, and revenge. Through it all, good and bad, indominable courage rises in many to meet harsh challenges and overcome crushing obstacles. These people live in infamy, now, because of historians who dedicate their work to be as close to the truth as possible. Such is Killing Crazy Horse: The Merciless Indian Wars in America.

Down the Rabbit Hole: Curious Adventures and Cautionary Tales of a Former Playboy Bunny by Holly Madison (Author/Narrator)

 

5 out of 5 stars  *****

A pleasant surprise, Holly Madison, subject and narrator, delivers an interesting, cogent description of her experiences and relationships in her young adult life. This memoir reveals that the blond bombshell, ex Hugh Hefner girlfriend , is not just a pretty face. Her thought process shows in the telling of her interactions with celebrity, high society, business and what it takes to maintain such a lifestyle. Holly matures as a woman and an asset in developing and producing her own shows which become hits and are still shown on social media, today.

In Touch: Daily Living for Devoted Living: April 2021 by Dr. Charles Stanley

 

5 out of 5 stars  *****

I speak to God daily and more often because Dr. Charles Stanley provides a monthly series of daily devotionals, In Touch: Readings for Devoted Living . The April, 2021, issue explores: Why only God fully satisfies; temptation separates us from God; what idols exist today; and there is only one true God. By reading these pages every morning my attitude settles into a peace that is truly God's and this makes the communion genuine. I am overwhelmed and grateful. This practice encourages me to always be open to God's will and obey His loving direction that man (meaning male and female) should always endeavor to live in love. "In everything you do, let it be in love." - 1 Cor. 16:14 (NIV)

The Rise of Rome by Gregory S. Aldrete

 

5 out or 5 stars  *****

This presentation about Roman civilization is a delight to listen or read. The factors responsible for Rome's success as a thriving, expanding culture are eloquently communicated by the narrator who has command of the information in this historical account. The beginning of Rome starts with a Trojan war hero who survives the fall of Troy, Aeneas. His seed produces the twins, Romulus and Remus. Romulus kills Remus and Rome is born.

The parallels between then and now are remarkable. The same flaws in man exist to create political, social, and personal problems as a result of greed and pride corrupting power and causing divisive unrest. An historical account of this caliber is necessary for a people to study and improve their own history which intends to repeat.

In Touch: Daily Readings for Devoted Living, March 2021 by Dr. Charles Stanley

5 out of 5 stars  *****

In Touch is a devotional that nurtures maturing Christians. In this March issue Dr. Stanley explains coping with strong emotions and how to deal with sinful passions. He also tells how Jesus is the example to follow when it comes to convictions, detaching from the world, and trusting in God, the Father. These daily readings keep one closer to God as the author is blessed by the Holy Spirit.

 

Grateful American: A Journey from Self to Service by Gary Sinise

 

5 out of 5 stars  *****

A great autobiography by a simple man doing significant work to help those in need. Gary Sinise is an accomplished actor, director, film and stage pioneer, activist for servicemen and women and the Fraternal Order of Police. This is besides being a philanthropist, husband, and father. His story tells of his rise from barely passing student to the engaged, thoughtful human being he is today. He impacts so many people around the world. This book reveals how hard Gary works and how successful his endeavors are because of it. 

Calypso by David Sedaris

 

3 out of 5 stars  ***

The Audiobook narration/performance is great and there are some humorous moments but I am not captured by the stories enough to maintain interest.

The Design of Everyday Things by Donald A. Norman, Don Norman, Neil Hellegers (Goodreads Author) (Narrator)

 5 out of 5 stars  *****

The standard for design around the world, Norman writes how the total experience of a product must be considered in its engineering. The "customer first" perspective, Human-Centered Design, drives the goal of making the best, most practical device for public use. The author does an incredible job at explaining the complexities involved in the Design Challenge. What makes his approach so valuable is the psychology and logic applied to everyday objects. Norman teaches future designers how to start the process in a world where technology creates a need for new and improved whatever.

In Touch devotional February 2021 by Charles Stanley

 5 out of 5 stars  *****

Developing and maintaining a relationship with God on a daily basis is easy with Dr. Stanley's devotionals. The wisdom of scripture and the astute knowledge of the author makes February's In Touch a stabilizing force in a world of corruption and chaos. February's issue considers freedom and its obstacles, angst in the face of everyday frustrations, and how to cope by trusting Him when challenged.

Modern Warriors: Real Stories from Real Heroes by Pete Hegseth

 

5 out of 5 stars  *****

Men and women who put their lives on the line in combat halfway around the world explain their motivation and desire to do what they do. Modern Warriors: Real Stories from Real Heroes is an opportunity for these tested patriots to divulge their feelings and observations about today's warfare. The strongest theme throughout their stories is the bond formed between soldiers regardless of their affiliations, color, or gender.
Pete Hegseth does a wonderful job presenting the somber reality of war with the heartfelt dedication these heroes have for one another. The format allows the accounts to be in their own words. This makes each chapter fresh and alive with their life-altering experiences.

Red Rain (Nameless #4) by Dean Koontz (Goodreads Author), Edoardo Ballerini (Narrator)

5 out of 5 stars  *****

Red Rain reveals that the hero in this series, Nameless, is seemingly an intentional manufacture of elite technology and science that manifests approximately two years ago. Before that is a blank memory but since is a razor sharp memory that rivals computer processing for retrieving information. This plot involves an arsonist who is clever when burning his subjects, people. The possible manufacturers of Nameless connect the arsonists presence with the burning deaths of individuals, families, and human collateral. A psychological profile also pins the murders on someone who has a penchant for fire. When Nameless is given his mission he exacts retribution on Evil's unremorseful tool. 
 

In the Heart of the Fire (Nameless #1) by Dean Koontz (Goodreads Author), Edoardo Ballerini (Narrator)

 5 out of 5 stars  *****

A most intriguing protagonist, a man who suffers from amnesia but recalls every detail of current events, is "Nameless." He vaguely remembers his fingerprints being erased with chemicals and plastic surgery. He is aware of a purpose that is directed by his unlimited source of money, equipment, and cases of murderous crimes either forgotten or covered up. Nameless is quite formidable as an opponent because of his supportive employer, his intellect, calm demeanor, and a clairvoyance that allows him to see what either is going to happen or has happened, already.

In the Heart of the Fire starts the Nameless short story series by Dean Koontz. Each book stands alone. They may refer to previous cases but their history is not vital to complete each story; therefore, it is not necessary to read each story in sequence. This first short story takes place in a small town where the law is enforced by the antagonist and his relatives who hold key political positions. They think they are above the law. An unsolved trend of murders alerts the employers of Nameless who direct him there to assure justice is done.

The Praying Mantis Bride (Nameless #3) by Dean Koontz (Goodreads Author), Edoardo Ballerini (Narrator)

 

Superstition becomes reality and spirits from the dead make contact with the living world. Justice seeking revenge haunts the culprit responsible for the spirits' demise. The protagonist, who remains, Nameless, uses his endless supply of resources and astute guile to wrap this case up. In a most unsettling conclusion, revenge adds another tier of evil that breaches the divide between life and death.

Photographing the Dead (Nameless, #2) by Dean Koontz (Goodreads Author), Edoardo Ballerini (Narrator)

 4 out of 5 stars  ****

The mysterious photographer/investigator looks into a suspicious trend of death in the mountains. He meets the locals and probes for clues never writing anything down. He has perfect recall but not for his whole life. His earlier history is blank. Nameless is the man with amnesia that has perfect recall of recent events.

Dean Koontz has a flair for the peculiar in particular predicaments. Documentation of such cases make up the Nameless series, thrilling adventures with macabre twists. Follow the trail, the thought process, and the gruesome reality in each of these short stories.

The Mercy of Snakes (Nameless #5) by Dean Koontz

4 out of 5 stars  ****

Another mysterious and thrilling adventure from the mind of Dean Koontz. This short story is another case in the Nameless series which portends enjoying the remaining cases.
 

Mythos: A Retelling of the Myths of Ancient Greece by Stephen Fry

Creation, the beginning, until the gods stopped interacting with man is the comprehensive timeline for Stephen Fry's superb work, Mythos: A Retelling of the Myths of Ancient Greece. The author's passion for the subject is evident by his rendition of the ancient tales which occur throughout the known world from a Greek perspective. As Fry notes, no other culture has a mythology that is so intricate, vibrant, and compelling. Literature owes so much to Greek Mythology by its contribution of common words and pronouns whose name symbolize the chief qualities of a particular creature.

The Audiobook is special because one hears the enthusiasm and deft voice alterations of its narrator, Stephen Fry, himself. The eloquence of voice and word choice in the compilation of this work of love lives in its telling. This book is the best, yet, this listener has come across in this fascinating genre.

In Touch devotional January 2021 by Dr. Charles Stanley

 5 out of 5 stars  *****

The In Touch devotional series maintains my relationship with Jesus Christ, God, the Holy Spirit by daily nurturing my soul with Holy scripture. Stanley's acumen on scripture and his relationship with God makes him the conduit through which God speaks to me and all who read these devotionals.

Memories of Tomorrow (Nameless #6) by Dean Koontz (Goodreads Author), Edoardo Ballerini (Narrator)

 

5 out of 5 stars  ***** 

Great short-story that holds one's attention from beginning to end. The concept of the story intrigues to stimulate interest, the writing professionally dramatic, and the narration perfect for bringing the characters to life. The personal touch at the climax and conclusion is moving.

The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People by Stephen R. Covey

 5 out of 5 stars  *****

This self-help book is full of positive advice that can be spoken easily enough but requires honest introspective investigation. This book penetrates the soul of a being not just the intellect. True unity with oneself and others, including the environment, is the ultimate goal. Great writers and philosophers are cited explaining how our actions do not always serve our personal goals. The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People outlines the habits that prove success in living closer to the ultimate goal. The reader benefits from applying the lessons taught in this book, a self-help that does what is says.