Title: The Heart of Frost (North Pole City Tales: Book Two)
Author: Charlie Cochet
Narrator: Robert Nieman
Publisher: Dreamspinner Press
Run Time: 3 hours and 4 minutes
At a Glance: Charlie Cochet, as usual, has nailed a story, but unfortunately, I can’t say the same for its narrator.
Reviewed By: Amy
Blurb: At the North Pole, no one is more powerful and feared than the Prince of Frost. As general of the toy soldier army, Jack Frost has been working extra hard to put away the villainous Mouse King once and for all. If that isn’t taxing enough, Jack has to deal with the scandal and gossip brought on by news of his relationship with Rudy Rein Dear, captain of the Rein Dear Squadron, which hit headlines last holiday season. Lucky for Jack, his reputation has managed to deter any foolish attempts to stir up trouble. At least until now.
When someone sabotages Rudy’s plane during a test run a few weeks before Christmas, Jack is determined to find the culprit by any means necessary. The closer he gets to finding answers, the more difficulty he has not falling back to his icy ways. Has the Mouse King stepped up his game in order to throw Jack off his, or is someone a little closer to home behind the attempt on Rudy’s life? Either way, Jack has every intention of delivering a Christmas they won’t soon forget, even if it means losing the newfound warmth in his heart.
Review: What a wonderful holiday treat! Charlie Cochet, as usual, has nailed a story. Her long contemporary stories have such depth and fun and seriousness. I didn’t think it was possible get all of that into a short story, but damn, Charlie Cochet can do anything.
This is totally my kind of short story. The characters are together but newly out as a couple, and being an important part of the community, people are having a hard time with this new-to-them relationship. Rudy is witty and adorable. Frost is intense and serious. I can’t wait for the next installment of this story.
Narration: Unfortunately, Robert Neiman fell completely flat for me. This book would have been a 5 star listen if it’d had a solid narration, but after about five minutes of listening, Neiman’s voice started to disappear, and I had to catch myself and refocus to listen. I can’t recommend this narrator.
You can buy The Heart of Frost here:
Hmmm… all due respect, but you’re smoking crack. Robert Nieman’s audio is fantastic. The guy could read the phone book and I’d pay to listen.