I took a listen to C. J. Boyle's sci-fi book, The Adventures of Kirk Rogers Inside the Moon the first installment of The Kirk Rogers Series. It was a fun story that had me grinning and thinking for at least a week after I listened to it.
The unique world-building stood out as the key factor of this book, an aspect that I always appreciate.
Kirk Rogers, a devoted older brother who's willing to go to any length, like stealing a spaceship, to rescue his younger sister, Laura. What unfolds is a series of unexpected events that lead the two of them into an entirely different realm—inside the moon itself!
Once there, they form some unusual and endearing friendships, [spoiler alert] one of which is a giant spider, someone known as The Dangerous One, and more. The story arc is top-notch, and the characters are relatable with charming familiar characteristics. Again, her world-building is what I keep coming back to, almost as if the environment was a kind of character of its own.
The story pays homage to all things sci-fi, sprinkling in subtle nods to beloved classics. While the story carries some familiar themes, it does so with a fresh and imaginative take on the concept of the moon.
For me, no audiobook is complete without a good narrator, and in this case, Jared Kedzia didn't disappoint. He pulled off both male and female voices as well as distinct characters.
LINE EDITING
While some minor line editing issues occasionally pulled me out of the story, they were outweighed by the sheer fun and creativity of the narrative. This point is a common criticism of mine, even for traditionally published novels, so probably won't impact others.
VERDICT
Now, let's talk ratings. If you're a fan of fun and quirky tales, this audiobook deserves a spot on your to-be-read list.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Story
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Narration
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Overall
At first, because of my pickiness, the "Overall" rating would have landed somewhere between four and five stars. Because this book stuck with me for over a week, while I listened to another novel, I boosted it to a five-star rating.
As always, I appreciate your support of self-publishing and indie authors. In the name of putting myself out there, here are a few of my works.
