Libby Audiobook: Across Borders, Ton Vosloo

 

Across Borders – Ton Vosloo (Libby Audiobook)

★★★☆☆

In a word: deurmekaar.

While Ton Vosloo’s life is undoubtedly rich with fascinating experiences, the structure of Across Borders left much to be desired. The timeline jumps were jarring—jumping from the 1960s to the 1990s and then back to the 1970s—making it difficult to follow the narrative thread. I usually enjoy memoirs, especially when they unfold in chronological order, offering a sense of journey. This one felt more like flipping through a scattered photo album than reading a story. Interesting at times, but ultimately disappointing.

3/5

Kindle: The Day That Never Comes, Caimh McDonnell 3

 

★★★☆☆ 3.8/5

Second in the Dublin Trilogy, The Day That Never Comes brings another brilliant blend of chaos, crime, and Caimh McDonnell’s razor-sharp humour. I am such a fan — his writing never fails to entertain, and this instalment had me grinning more than once.

The story dives straight into Dublin’s murky depths with protests, corruption, and colourful characters galore. Bunny and Paul are back, and the banter is as brilliant as ever.

My only (minor) challenge? The sheer number of character names. But to be fair, this was my bedtime read… so nodding off mid-chapter may have left me a bit plot-lost now and then!

If you enjoy crime fiction with wit, warmth, and a wicked sense of humour — you’ll be right at home here.

Kindle Audiobook: The Patient's Secret, Loreth Anne White

 

★★★☆☆

I usually enjoy Loreth Anne White’s writing, she’s vert good at crafting gripping who-dunnits with unexpected twists and layered characters. The Patient’s Secret has all the ingredients: a mysterious death, an idyllic coastal setting with dark undercurrents, and a network of secrets waiting to unravel.

The story follows Lily Bradley, a respected therapist in a small town, whose carefully controlled life starts to fall apart when a woman is found dead at the base of a cliff. As the investigation unfolds, Lily’s connection to the victim and the secrets she’s buried start to come dangerously close to the surface.

It’s a well-written slow burn, but I didn’t enjoy this one as much as some of the author’s other titles. The pacing felt a bit off at times, and while the twists were there, they didn’t quite land with the same impact.

Still, if you like psychological suspense with a few red herrings and a moody atmosphere, it’s worth a listen.

Libby Audiobook: The Gift of Imperfection, Brené Brown

 

I am a big Brené Brown fan.

Beautiful quote on authenticity.

4.5/5

Kindle Audiobook: The Birthday Party, Shalini Boland

 

The Birthday Party by Shalini Boland

Rating: ★★★☆☆ (3/5)

I am a fan of Shalini Boland’s work—her thrillers usually deliver those lovely, juicy twists that keep me hooked. The Birthday Party had all the right ingredients, but this one stretched credibility a bit too far for me.

(Spoilers ahead!) Jo, the Mom of Elle that disappears' decision not to tell the police about Mateo felt inexplicable, and the DNA test twist just did not hold water. These plot holes made it harder to stay fully invested.

That said, I listened to the audiobook version, and the narrator did a great job—engaging, well-paced, and added to the overall atmosphere.

A twisty tale with potential, but not quite as satisfying as her other books.

Libby Audiobook: Caster Semenya, The Race to be Myself

 

Beautiful. Great insight given.

5/5

Kindle Audiobook: The Lying Man, Andy Maslen

 

Book Review: The Lying Man by Andy Maslen

★ ★ ★ ☆ ☆

I can’t believe I’m already on the fourth instalment — these books feel like catching up with old friends. The Lying Man is not a literary masterpiece, but it’s thoroughly enjoyable. Fast-paced, entertaining, and filled with familiar faces, it’s the kind of read that keeps you turning the pages without overthinking it. A solid 3-star read if you’re after something sharp, snappy and satisfying.

Libby Audiobook: For My Country, Themba Maseko

 

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

I thoroughly enjoyed this book and could not put it down.

What stood out most for me was the theme of integrity, and the reminder of why governance structures exist in the first place. State capture, as Maseko so clearly shows, takes root when people are driven by greed and disregard the rules.

He shares his journey with honesty and depth — from his early years as an activist, through the hopeful days of our new democracy, and into the harsh reality of state capture. I’m deeply grateful to him for having the courage to be the first whistleblower. It could not have been easy, especially being ostracised by former friends and social circles. His entire family felt the impact.

The book is sensitively written and genuinely moved me. It reminded me that there are still people who have fought — and continue to fight — for the soul of our beautiful country.

That said, I am still left wondering: how is it that the Guptas have not been brought to book?

Libby Audiobook: The Pathway to Success, Joyce Meyer

Always such great wisdom shared.

3.8/5
 

Libby Audiobook: Like Sodium in Water, Hayden Eastwood

 

Book Review: Like Sodium in Water by Hayden Eastwood
Rating: ★★☆☆☆

Two stars—and that’s being generous.

The book begins with promise. Hayden Eastwood paints an evocative picture of his childhood in Zimbabwe during the 1980s and 90s. For anyone who grew up during that era, there’s a nostalgic familiarity in his anecdotes and pop culture references. It’s easy to feel drawn in and curious about where the story might lead.

Unfortunately, it veers off in a deeply uncomfortable direction. What begins as a memoir morphs into what feels like a public airing of intensely private family matters. The amount of personal, painful “dirty laundry” shared about his family is staggering—and quite honestly, unnecessary. It leaves the reader questioning the intent behind the book. There’s a faint glimmer of remorse, especially in relation to his father, but it’s fleeting and overshadowed by what often feels like bitterness rather than reflection.

One can appreciate that writing about trauma and truth can be cathartic. But storytelling—particularly memoir—comes with a responsibility: to handle shared histories with sensitivity and care. In this case, that balance is sorely lacking. 

Proceed with caution if you value discretion, healing, and empathy in memoirs.

Libby Audiobook: Deadly Pretender, Karen Kingsbury

 

Had no idea what to expect. Was 11hours long listen, was worried that I wouldn't get through it in the two week period. Binge listened to it with time to spare.

So good! David Miller is a bigamist. Tells wife one he is in the CIA. Rolled my eyes si many times during the book at how he duped everyone around him.

He ends up killing wife two!

Very good book.

5/5

Libby Audiobook: Rock, Paper, Scissors, Alice Feeney

 

This is the second Alice Feeney book I listened to, and really enjoyed it. 

Again, binge listened to it. Love the twists.

We meet Adam an author and playright. He suffers from faceblindness and is married to Amelia. They + Bob, their lab,  head up to Scotland for a weekend away that Amelia had won at work.

Very good.

4.5/5

Libby Audiobook: On a Quiet Street, Seraphina Nova Glass

 

This was very good! Quite long, but I binge listened to this. Intrigue of friends. Paige has lost her son and believes everyone on the street is guilty, Cora is married to a serial philanderer and Georga/Nicola married to an absolute psycho.

Very good narrator.

I would like to read more of her work.

4.8/5

Libby Audiobook: Dare to Lead, Dr Brené Brown 4/5

 

Great book on boundaries. Love that Brené reads the book.

4/5

Libby Audiobook: Conversations with Friends, Sally Rooney

 

This was a weird one, didn't love it.

A bisexual 23 year old writer has an affair with a 32 year old actor.

Meh.

3/5

Kindle Audiobook: Playing for Freedom, Zarifa Abida and Anne Chaon

 

Interesting to learn more about Afghanistan. 

3.8/5

Kindle Audiobook: Unspeakable Things, Jess Lourey

 

It's a novel based on true events. From the perspective of a little girl who's living in a town where little boys get abducted and molested. By the sounds of it, she alludes to her dad molesting her.

Her mom and dad also regularly have swing parties.

3/5

Kindle: Into the Pines, J.C Fuller

This book took very long to complete, mainly because I read it while drying my hair in the mornings.

I enjoyed it, but again, loads of names. 

I do enjoy her writing style and the beautiful details giving the story colour.

4/5

Kindle Audiobook: The Maid's Diary, Loreth Anne White

 

Not too bad either. The only comment is that the narrator really battled with the accents.

Spoiler: Saw the twists with Kit, Mia, Vanessa.

4/5

Kindle Audiobook: The Swimmer, Loreth Anne White

 

Loads of twists and turns, not too bad for an alternative thriller author. 

Husband has affair and has two year old, tried to kill wife with jetski, but, kills wrong person. Witness is next door neighbour who has an obsession with the wife.

3.8/5

Libby: Judaskus, Rudie van Rensburg

I really like the Kassie Kasselman series by Rudie van Rensburg. What I don't like are all the names /characters, and trying to keep track of who is who it just becomes gobbledygook after a while.

Also, there should be a trigger warning. The death of a dog is involved. 

3.8/5

Libby Audiobook: The Light we Carry, Michelle Obama

 

Wonderfully inspiring. Go higher.

Michelle learnt how to knit during lockdown, helped her to relax.

Can hear the passion and pain of the new dispensation that has no respect or regard for tradition, others.

4.8/5

Libby Audiobook: Rising Strong as a Spiritual Practice, Dr Brené Brown

 

Choose discomfort over resentment 

Saying no is a moment of discomfort, gives you back 6 months worth of resentment.

Boundaries help you to live with integrity 

Extend true compassion when you are clear on your boundaries 

Fear, grief, perfectionis gets in the way

For forgiveness to happen, something needs to die. Grief is the biggest barrier to forgiveness.

4.5/5

Kindle: A Man With One of Those Faces, Caimh McDonnell

 

I enjoy his writing, marvellously, dry, dark British humour.

The only problem is that this was my nighttime read, so I would more often than not, fall asleep. Which meant that I had difficulty keeping track of all the characters, but that was a 'me' problem.

4/5

Libby Audiobook: One Medicine, Dr Matt Morgan

 

Written and read by Welsh doctor, Matt Morgan.

Very interesting all the lessons animals teach us in treating human illness. 

He encourages Dr to work with vets. Nurses with veterany nurses.

4/5

Kindle Audiobook: This one life, Amanda Prowse

 

Very sweet.

Madeleine gets pregnant with Jimmy's child, only realises she is pregnant at seven months.

She has no intention to be a mother. Her mom and dad as well as Jimmy raises little Edith while Madeleine heads up the corporate interior decorating ladder.

3.5/5

Libby Audiobook:Battlefield of the Mind, Joyce Meyer

 

How to Survive a Tsunami, Rael Levitt

 

Enjoyed this book. Interesting to learn about Auction Alliance, their growth and downfal. Had a vague recollection of Wendy Appelbaum taking on some big organisation.

Good lesson on reputation and building relationships and what not to do.

Initially quite a bit of name dropping. But suppose that is part of the story.

4/5

Kindle Audiobook: You Killed Me First, John Marrs

 

Absolutely love John Marrs' work. This is his latest one, and a bonus was that it was an audiobook on Kindle Unlimited. Binge listened to it. Got a bit confused with all the names and keeping track of who was who and keeping track of what was going on, but, it all made sense, with marvellous twists along the way. Love the narration.

4/5

Libby Audiobook: The Alice Network, Kate Quinn

 

The narrator was so good with all the accents.

Interesting book about women spies in the first world war. It ctosses over between first world war and right after the second world war.

4/5

Libby Audiobook: Overcoming Every Problem, Joyce Meyer

 

Wisdom is doing now what you will be satisfied with later

Ask for discretion.

Libby Audiobook: Understanding and overcoming depression, Joyce Meyer

 

We grow in the hard times not the good times .

Don't waste a day by being depressed/unhappy 

Complain and remain.

Libby Audiobook: Your Battles Belong to The Lord, Joyce Meyer

  

Kindle Audiobook: Table for Five, Izzy Bromley

 

Very sweet, light read.

Abbie gets fired from a high powered marketing position. She befriends a motley crew that hang out at the coffee shop at a supermarket.

Ethel 84 year old ex ballerina, Bob, a homeless guy who lost everything when he was robbed, Dawn who l suspect is on the spectrum and Viraj who recently moved to Leeds but does not know anyone.

Reason for 3.8. I don't like present tense writing. And, I think it's highly unlikely that Ethel, at 84, after a stint in the hospital, would model clothes on point shoes.

Narrator was very good.

3.8/5

Libby Audiobook: God of Small Things, Arundhati Roy

 

Wasn't too keen on this one, but, it is actually quite beautiful.

But, oh so sad.

Learnt so much about the cast system.

So many layers.

4.8/5

Libby Audiobook: The Charming Man, C.K McDonnell

 

I am so enjoying this series. Vampires & monsters are definitely not my normal genre I enjoy. But, these are such fun. And, the narrator is absolutely brilliant.

Not full 5/5 because I did get a tiny bit confused with the characters.

Even the acknowledgements are fun!

Libby Audiobook: Battlefield of the Mind, Joyce Meyer

What would Jesus think.

Don't be a stinker thinker.

Your attitude determines a lot.

Definitely want to listen to it again.

4.8 / 5

Why not 5/5 thought it was a book and parts she is laughing with the audience which is great, but clearly something happened was said there that we can't see. 

 

Libby Audiobook: The Stranger Times, C.K McDonnell

 

Absolutely loved this! Just love his sense of humour and the narration just brilliant!

4.8/5 not five because some of it was a little bit disjointed and I had to relisten to get back on track.

Libby Audiobook: The Book Woman of Troublesome Creek, Kim Michele Richardson

 

It was very interesting to learn more about the blue skinned people of Kentucky. The condition is called methemoglobinemia.

The story is just hectic with everything that Cussy has to go through and everything that happens to her. 

Didn't love this book.

3.5/5

Libby Audiobook: Strong Like Water, Aundi Kolber

 

This book was ok. I can understand that it can be a great resource for some, but I didn't resonate with it.

3/5

Libby Audiobook: Cop Under Cover, Johann van Loggenberg

 

Wow. What Johann van Loggenberg had to endure and achieved before the age of 30 is incredible, being in the police force and going under cover, specifically the drug under world and having to deal with hectic criminals, some of whom were also in the police force. What is incredibly sad is the lack of support and trauma counselling provided. No acclimatisation given when he returned to normal life.

Gys de Villiers narrated the book well.

Very interesting.

4.5/5

Libby: The Lost Apothecary, Sarah Penner

This book made me angry on so many levels.

It did start out strong. And, the Nella/Eliza 1790's part was fairly interesting.

But the Caroline part set in modern day was just so irritatingly unrealistic.

Besides Caroline being incredibly grating what annoyed me:

1. Finding the hidden Apothecary and then messing with the historical integrity by going inside the room and then going through Nella's book without gloves.

2. Hiding information from the police. 

3. After Gaynor, the librarian went over and beyond helping her to get information about the vial, she doesn't want to share the information she found about Eliza with her!?

4. After finding this artefact, instead of preserving it, she throws it back into the Thames, what the actual.

Nope. 

2/5

Kindle Audiobook: The World Played Chess, Robert Dugoni

 

Absolutely loved The Extraordinary Life of Sam Hell.

This one, I did not enjoy nearly as much.

Three view points:

1. William in Vietnam war

2. William meeting and working with Vincent.

3. Vincent grown up.

Too confusing, difficult to keep track of who is who.

2.5/5

Kindle Audiobook: The Extraordinary Life of Sam Hell, Robert Dugoni

This was such a beautiful novel. Sam is born with ocular albinism (red eyes); the book is about his parent's unconditional love and support, and his best friends Ernie and Mickie. 

Most importantly, everything happens for a reason and to have faith in God's will.

He writes with such sensitivity and wonderful sense of humour.

Loved this book.

5/5

Kindle Audiobook: The Last Green Valley, Mark Sullivan

Ah, this book is the third that I have read of this author, and it has just cemented that I am a raving fan of his work. Initially it took me a little bit longer to get into this book than the other two. But, it is just beautiful how love, faith and an unwavering belief in a positive outcome, will get you through the most horrific and difficult times. It is again a novel based on real people and events. Mark Sullivan has such a gift of bringing history to life.

4.5/5

Libby Audiobook: You're not broke, you're pre-rich, Mapalo Makhu

 

Isn't this a great name! 

It says it is targeted at Millenniums but, I think there is a lot of good advice for all ages.

Wills, SARS, investments, savings.

4.5/5

Kindle: The Sky Beneath Us, Fiona Valpy

 

I have been spoiled with Mark Sullivan's historical books. This one is fine, didn't bliw my hair back.

I audiobooked this, the staccato of the one narrator got incredibly annoying, that I think I missed some good wisdom the author tried to share. Even speeding it up didn't help.

We meet Daisy who is on a pilgrimage to find out more about her great aunt Violet

I won't be rushing out to read more of her books.

Meh. 

3/5

Libby: My sister, the serial killer, Oyinkan Braithwaite

Quite good, satirical take on how Korede, a nurse, copes / helps her beautiful sister, Ayoola with all her boyfriends that die off.

Korede confides what is going on with a man that has been in a coma for months and the prognosis is not good for him to wake up, but the thing is, he does!

3/5

Libby Audiobook: A Good Girl's Guide to Murder, Holly Jackson

 

🙄 Highly unrealistic story, grating main character, and, the dog dies.

Pippa is doing a project on the disappearance of Andy Bell and the death of Sandy Singh and the role of the media for a school project. She is told not to approach either of the families or it won't be accepted. First interview, Sandy's brother.

Kindle Audiobook: Under the Scarlet Sky, Mark Sullivan

 

I just love how Mark Sullivan brings history to life. Beautifully written.

All about Pinot's part in the second world war and being a driver and translator for General Leyers and his love for Anna.