The Stars Forgot Us by R. J. Garcia

 Things are tense in the Kelly home. And Jacob knows it’s not just because of the divorce, but no one seems to notice, unless you believe the ramblings of his messed-up brother. When he finally discovers a runaway teen living and hiding within the house’s walls, he walks into a nightmare. Unable to go to his mother or the cops, Jacob must rely on himself and his friends to protect this runaway from an ancient terror.

This story is a rollercoaster ride full of suspense and terror. Don’t start this read if you have to work the next day. It’ll leave you sleepless. It really is kick-ass!

Rogue Operator (Dillan Kan Thriller #1) by J. Robert Kennedy

 This is another new author for me. I’ve seen his stuff being advertising and when I found this series at my local library in audio, I decided it was time to give it a try. Very pleased that I did.

When three scientists and their families are abducted, Dillan Kane, as CIA operative suspects a foreign government is involved, but as he investigates, he finds that American resources have been used which muddies the waters. All he knows is that he must rescue the hostages or kill them. It’s too dangerous to leave them alive.

Incredibly fast-paced with intriguing characters. This is a smart spy thriller with just the right amount of tension sprinkled with humor to keep you turning the pages. Kennedy has an impressive backlist which I will be exploring.

The Poet by Michael Connelly

 The Poet is one of Connelly’s cornerstone stories and I was anxious to explore it. A child abuser who also hunts and kills the lead detective as a way to show superiority has been plaguing the country. When he kills the twin brother of Jack McEvoy, a crime-beat reporter, it starts a nation-wide manhunt. McEvoy teams up with the FBI to the incredible climax that no one could predict.

I enjoyed the story and would recommend it immediately. I did, however, have trouble with the narrator. His voice just threw me off. To continue with the story, I sped up the reading, which altered the voice enough.

Merciless Stars by Candace Robinson

 Two sisters, as different from each other except for the magic and love that bind them. When emissaries from a neighboring kingdom attack the sisters, you're slaughtered on site. But why attack the target of a marriage proposal to unite the two kingdoms.

 The younger sister uses dark magic to steal a soul to bring a wax raven to life, while her sister sets it out to discover what is happening in the next kingdom

To deal with the threat, ancient myths must be explored to find a cure for both kingdoms or all is lost. But can they can make the ultimate sacrifice without destroying them all.

The author once again creates a magical world for readers to lose themselves in. Dark magic, savage appetites, a love that will sacrifice everything.

Ordinary Grace by William Kent Krueger

 Famous for the Cork O’Connor mystery series, the author brings us something different in Ordinary Grace.

We see this story through the eyes of Frank, a 12-year-old boy and a number of tragic deaths during the summer in 1961. It's both a coming-of-age tale, but looks at faith, death, loss, and hope.

The story is rich and heartwarming and touches on so many themes so subtly that it draws you deep within the story. Highly recommended.