Favorites of 2016 ~ Narrators

I decided it'd be fun to bring 2016 to a close by listing some of favorites from the year. I hope you enjoy reading about some of my favorites and I'd be happy to hear about any of your favorites!

*~*Narrators*~*

• Kirsten Potter - she can rock an accent making her a favorite for historicals
• Christian Fox - his delivery is so natural, and entertaining, I'd pay him to read my grocery list
• Robert Petkoff - his range of voices and delivery keep me chomping at the bit to listen to Immortals After Dark
• Mindy Kennedy - she *is* Teresa Drazen and her voice for Antonio Spinelli rocks as well
• Joe Arden - he does a great job at conveying the emotions of the heroes and makes a great duo with Maxine Mitchell
• Maxine Mitchell - she does well with conveying emotions as well and she and Joe Arden are one of my favorite narrating duos
• Sebastian York - his growly voice, well, it does nice things to me so listening to him is an absolute pleasure
• Nicole Poole - she amazes me! I'm always impressed with her ability to keep character voices distinct over a number of books, especially a series like Dannika Dark's Seven series where there is a large cast.
• Mason Lloyd - his delivery of the crusty men of According to Hoyle was so spot on it made the story even more enjoyable

Audio Review ~ My Heart's in the Highlands ~ Angeline Fortin

My Heart's in the Highlands by Angeline Fortin
Narrated by: Kirsten Potter
Release Date: May 24, 2016 (audio)
Genre: Adult, Contemporary Romance
Source: Tantor Audio sent me a complimentary copy
Rating: 4.5 Bookworms
Challenges: #2016NewRelease
Goodreads

Synopsis
Sixty-eight seconds. Can a life be lived in sixty-eight seconds? Can the love of a lifetime be discovered and lost in just a minute? Mikah Bauer stepped into the street in front of the Glasgow Museum of Modern Art and found herself lost in a nightmare that became a dream come true when Ian Conagham, the Marquis of Ayr, appeared before her. Mikah found herself living another life, a fairy tale of love and passion such as she never imagined. Then came the nightmare that tore it all away as quickly as fate had handed it to her. Contains mature themes.

I have to admit to choosing this book for two reasons:

1. Highlands = Highlanders
2. Kirsten Potter

Yep. Luckily, in Fortin I've found an author whose storytelling I like. My Heart's in the Highlands is a little difficult to categorize - it's kinda time-travel, it's sort of historical romance, and it's a little contemporary. But it is 100% entertaining.

Do you believe that two souls so deeply in love in one lifetime could meet again in another? I do now.

I love how Fortin had the story unfold - a young woman finding herself in the body of another woman, in the past. I adored seeing Hero and Ian fall for one another. They found a love so deep and profound. I felt it acutely. I liked Fortin's use of reincarnation and the allusions to Mikah experiencing a past life. I liked the subterfuge and the suspense it created in Hero and Ian's life. And I liked how Fortin brought everything back to the present as well as the resolution.

Yes, this is all rather vague. But I think My Heart's in the Highlands is a book to be experienced. Particularly with the excellent narration of Kirsten Potter. Potter excels at expressing the emotion and pacing of a novel. She never fails to have me gasping, experiencing butterflies or goosebumps, or making me bawl my eyes out. Yes, I know the story must be impressive as well but I've not listened to a book yet narrated by Potter that I didn't love. I'm eager to continue this series - I don't believe the stories are linked but I know I'll enjoy the story as well as the narration.

1. Highlands = Highlanders
2. Potter = Excellent Narration
3. Fortin = Fantastic story

Audio Review ~ Never Love a Highlander ~ Maya Banks

Never Love a Highlander by Maya Banks
McCabe Trilogy #3
Narrated by: Kirsten Potter
Release Date: July 23, 2012
Genre: Adult, Historical Romance
Source: Audible Credit
Rating: 4.5 Bookworms
Challenges: #ShelfLove
Goodreads

Synopsis
In a tale of strong ties and true love, Maya's trilogy comes to its stunning conclusion, as the youngest McCabe brother uses sword and seduction to save his clan--and seal his heart.

Caelen McCabe's young, reckless heart nearly destroyed his clan. Now putting family loyalty above all else, he steps up to marry his older brother's jilted bride and salvage the uneasy alliance between two clans. While beautiful Rionna McDonald is a fit wife for any man, Caelen trusts no woman, especially not this sweet temptress who torments him with white hot longing.

As the sacrificial lamb in her father's power game, Rionna will do her duty but protect her heart and her pride from another man's humiliation. Despite everything, the heat in Caelen's touch melts her defenses and she craves the sensual delights of a husband who guards his emotions as fiercely as his clan. But when the ultimate battle for the McCabe legacy is upon them, Rionna's true warrior spirit emerges. She will risk the wrath of her father, the fury of her enemies, and her life to prove to Caelen that his wife's love is too precious to lose.

Despite the fact I felt the final battle was a tad anti-climatic, I was well pleased with this final installment in the McCabe trilogy.

One thing I adore about Banks' Highlander heroines is their strength. Rionna McDonald is the strongest, most courageous of them all. I admire her for her determination to live life as she dictates - not cow to her clan's or Caelen's ideas of what makes a proper laird's wife. I'd been so anxious for Rionna's story. And honestly, Caelen was the best match for her.

It was a pleasure to listen as Caelen tried to shape Rionna into what he thought she should be and see them both learn that being true to themselves was the best foundation on which to build their relationship. I also enjoy the clan dynamics and it was interesting to witness how the McDonalds took having a McCabe at the helm. To say they were resistant is an understatement. I liked how Caelen went about making Rionna's clan his own. It was important not only because he wanted to blend the clans and make them stronger, but also because the needed a united front against Duncan Cameron.

I missed seeing Ewan and Mairin, and Alaric and Keeley but I understood the necessity. I was happy that Gannon accompanied Caelen to McDonald lands because it was nice for Caelen, and me, to have a familiar face in his new home.

Even though I thought the final battle was a bit too easy, I understood this was a romance, not historical fiction. I also didn't quite understand the explanation for Duncan Cameron's quest for vengeance against the McCabes. However, I adored Rionna for her cunning in the face of danger. She put Caelen first and showed her bravery using her wits and skills. Caelen was well-served in his choice of wife.

As usual, Kirsten Potter delivered an excellent narration. She truly brings the story to life, ensuring the pacing is perfect, and the dialog exciting. She also sets the tone for scenes so well that I'm gasping, crying, or experiencing goose bumps. I'm sad that this story has come to an end. I'll miss the McCabe brothers and their lady-wives.

Audio Review ~ Seducing a Highland Lass ~ Maya Banks

Seduction of a Highland Lass by Maya Banks
McCabe Trilogy #2
Narrated by: Kirsten Potter
Release Date: May 17, 2012 (audio)
Genre: Adult, Historical Romance
Source: Audible
Rating: 5 Bookworms
Challenges: #ShelfLove 2015
Goodreads

Synopsis
A warrior is caught between family loyalty and forbidden love in book two of Maya's sensual new trilogy featuring three indomitable Highlanders.

Fiercely loyal to his elder brother, Alaric McCabe leads his clan in the fight for their birthright. Now, he is prepared to wed for duty, as well. But on his way to claim the hand of Rionna McDonald, daughter of a neighboring chieftain, he is ambushed and left for dead. Miraculously, his life is saved by the soft touch of a Highland angel, a courageous beauty who will put his fealty to his clan, his honor, and his deepest desires, to the test.

An outcast from her own clan, Keeley McDonald was betrayed by those she loved and trusted. When the wounded warrior falls from his horse, she is drawn to his strong, lean body. The wicked glint in his green eyes ignites a passion that will follow them back to Alaric's keep, where their forbidden love draws them deeper into the pleasures of the flesh. But as conspiracy and danger circle closer, Alaric must make an impossible choice. Will be betray his blood ties for the woman he loves?

I went into Seducing a Highland Lass thinking I knew who the heroine would be. And I was anxious for her story, honestly. So I was surprised when Banks threw a curve ball by switching heroines on me! However, I couldn't be more pleased with Keeley. She was everything I could have hoped for in a MC and in a match for Alaric.

Going into Seducing a Highland Lass, things are set for a wedding between Alaric and Rionna McDonald, forging an alliance in Scotland that would allow the McCabe's to pursue Duncan Cameron. Alaric falls upon some trouble on his way to McDonald lands, ends up injured, and on Keeley's doorstep.

Keeley - oh what a strong, brave young woman! And so resilient. She was thrown out of her clan for something she didn't do. Despite being so close to the laird's family - his daughter, Rionna - she was left to fend for herself. Using her healing abilities, she's done just that. And then Alaric McCabe appears at her door.

I love these two together. Their relationship is doomed from the start with Alaric's impending marriage but their feelings would not be denied. I enjoyed watching Alaric, the mighty warrior fall. The interactions between them were exciting in their charged banter and the steam of the chemistry. I also enjoyed the compassion that shown from within each of them.

Spending more time with Ewan and Mairin, who's nearing the end of her pregnancy, was a pleasure, as was seeing other favorite clan members. It was particularly a pleasure to become better acquainted with Caelen McCabe. He's the prickliest of the brothers, so seeing him warm to Keeley as his respect for her grew was a real delight.

Of course, there is still danger afoot with Duncan Cameron being on the loose - looking for a way to take Mairin and power in the Highlands. But there was also danger much closer to home. Banks continues to deliver a riveting story around the Highlanders' romance. And Kirsten Potter continues to wow me with her narration. She keeps distinct voices for her characters as well as delivering the action in a way that is perfectly paced and compelling.

I can't wait for Caelen's story!

Audio Review ~ Highlander Most Wanted ~ Maya Banks

Highlander Most Wanted
The Montgomerys and Armstrongs #2
Release Date: April 15, 2013
Genre: Adult, Historical Romance
Format: Audio
Source: Audible Credit
Rating: 5 Bookworms
Goodreads

Synopsis
Genevieve McInnis is locked behind the fortified walls of McHugh Keep, captive of a cruel laird who takes great pleasure in ruining her for any other man. Yet when Bowen Montgomery storms the gates on a mission of clan warfare, Genevieve finds that her spirit is bent but not broken. Still, her path toward freedom remains uncertain. Unable to bear the shame of returning to a family that believes her dead or to abandon others at the keep to an imposing new laird, Genevieve opts for the peaceful life of an abbess. But Bowen's rugged sensuality stirs something deep inside her that longs to be awakened by his patient, gentle caress--something warm, wicked, and tempting.

Bowen seizes his enemy's keep, unprepared for the brooding and reclusive woman who captures his heart. He's enchanted by her fierce determination, her unusual beauty, and her quiet, unfailing strength. But wooing her will take more than a seasoned seducer's skill. For loving Genevieve, he discovers, means giving her back the freedom that was stolen from her--even if it means losing her forever.

I wouldn't have thought it possible for Banks to move me more, to wring more emotion from me, than she did with Never Seduce a Scot. I was wrong. Bowen and Genevieve's story was even more compelling, more evocative - and I found every reason I could to listen. (by the way, I finished it in 2 days!)

Bowen Montgomery has been installed as the laird of McHugh Keep, following the rescue of Eveline from her McHugh captor, until Graeme decides what to do with it. Upon his arrival, he's impressed by a young woman - not only by her courage, but also by her beauty. As he gets settled, he learns this woman, Genevieve, was responsible for helping Graeme locate Eveline. In getting to know Genevieve, he learns many things about her - some he wishes not to know.

Genevieve is not a McHugh - she was brought into their keep against her will by Iain McHugh. However, no one in the clan has shown her a bit of kindness - in fact, they not only shun her but also revile her for something not her fault. That Genevieve can stand proud against their taunts and actions - even championing the remaining members of the clan - is a testament to her character.

Bowen and Genevieve's dubious early acquaintance is prickly as Bowen makes a judgement without knowing all the facts and Genevieve feels she's deserving of his punishment for her role in Iain's actions. However, Bowen is a fair and just man - just like his brother, Graeme - and he listens to Genevieve's story and takes it all into account. Genevieve makes her true character known in all she does - taking up her bow in defense of the keep when they're attacked, fighting for people who'd just as soon turn her out. She endured much at Iain's hands yet she survived.

I adore the pluck of these Scottish heroines. Banks created the perfect complements for these Highland warriors - women with courage, ingenuity, resourcefulness - and although I love Eveline, Genevieve is my favorite at present. Banks also draws an incredible supporting cast of characters in the Montgomery siblings Teague and Rory, as well as Brody Armstrong. Rory is a true delight - living in each moment with gusto. Oh, and I mustn't forget Taliesin, the only McHugh to befriend Genevieve. She has quite the spirit.

I was once again enthralled with Kirsten Potter's narration. She is adept with giving characters their own voice, and she really does an amazing Scottish accent. I'm beginning to think that enjoyment of a narrator is a very subjective thing - and I'm enchanted with Potter.

Highlander Most Wanted is a rich story, brought to life by robust characters. I'm taken with these Highlanders and am eager to know what will happen next for them. And, of course, I won't hesitate to listen. :)

Audio Review ~ Never Seduce a Scot ~ Maya Banks

Never Seduce a Scot
The Montgomerys and Armstrongs #1
Narrated by: Kirsten Potter
Release Date: September 25, 2012
Genre: Adult, Historical Romance
Source: Purchased on Audible
Rating: 5 Bookworms
Goodreads

Synopsis
Eveline Armstrong is fiercely loved and protected by her powerful clan, but outsiders consider her "touched." Beautiful, fey, with a level, intent gaze, she doesn't speak. No one, not even her family, knows that she cannot hear. Content with her life of seclusion, Eveline has taught herself to read lips and allows the outside world to view her as daft. But when an arranged marriage into a rival clan makes Graeme Montgomery her husband, Eveline accepts her duty--unprepared for the delights to come. Graeme is a rugged warrior with a voice so deep and powerful that his new bride can hear it, and hands and kisses so tender and skilled that he stirs her deepest passions.

Graeme in intrigued by the mysterious Eveline, whose silent lips are ripe with temptation and whose bright, intelligent eyes can see into his soul. As intimacy deepens, he learns her secret. But when clan rivalries and dark deeds threaten the wife he has only begun to cherish, the Scottish warrior will move heaven and earth to save the woman who has awakened his heart to the beautiful song of a rare and magical love.

The Montgomery and Armstrong clans are sworn enemies because the Armstrongs killed the former laird, and Graeme's father. To implement peace between the two clans, the king of England mandates a marriage between Graeme, the laird of the Montgomerys, and Eveline, the daughter of the Armstrong laird.

Eveline, although seen by her clan and outsiders as daft, is truly a brave, resourceful, and crafty young lass. She's propagated the belief of her "touched-ness" in order to stave off an unwanted marriage. However, when the king mandates a marriage, it's something she can't avoid. And although Graeme is willing to forgive her the sins of her father, finding acceptance among the Montgomerys is something Eveline finds very challenging. But it's a challenge she willingly accepts as she realizes that her husband is an exceptional man.

Graeme is a warrior - rough, strong, but very handsome. He's also a very kind, fair, and just man. While he understands his clan's reluctance to accept his new wife into the clan, he will not allow them to mistreat her. As Graeme gets better acquainted with Eveline, he also finds that he's been given a gift in his wife. 

It was a delight to witness Graeme and Eveline learn about each other. Eveline was happy to see that Graeme was a good leader and brother. And Graeme was thrilled to learn his wife was far from daft. Their affection was genuine and their chemistry a slow burn. The story touches on themes such as prejudice, and even bullying, really. It was exciting to see people learn they shouldn't judge others as new friends were made, new alliances formed. 

Meeting the cast of characters - Graeme's brothers, Bowen and Teague, and sister, Rory, as well as Eveline's family, made the story that much richer. Banks' characters are robust and brought life to the story of feuding clans putting their differences aside for a common goal. I'm eager to get to know them all better. Banks' description of life in the keep was realistic and well-crafted. Even listening as a typical day unfolded drew vivid images in my mind.

With a title like Never Seduce a Scot, I was expecting a light, steamy read. Lesson? Never judge a book by its title. Never Seduce a Scot was a deep, complex read. One that brought tears to my eyes, gasps to my mouth, and smiles to my face. I had no idea Banks wrote historical fiction but I'm hooked and can't wait to listen to more.  

I'm an audio newbie - this is only my third listen. I was beginning to think there was something wrong with me that I couldn't do audio. I don't want to take anything away from either of the other books I've listened to. I liked both stories and both narrators. But this story and this narrator had me anxious to listen and loath to stop. Kirsten Potter ROCKS a Scottish accent and even after moving on, I could still hear her voice in my head. It was incredible and I will definitely listen to her again.