Pecan Gap

A Jake Somers Novel

By: Don Castle

Narrated by: John Anthony Davis

You really get swept up quickly in this enjoyable novel, as it is written with respect for the reader's intelligence and shows the intrinsic politeness of Don Castle's persona through his character of Jake Somers. Don Castle doesn't resort to foul language, violent scenes or over the top sexual innuendos, making this book ideal for young adult reading as well as the seasoned who-done-it fans. We hope to see more of Jake Somers' “down to earth values” in future works as he has become a truly memorable character.

©2010 Donny J Castle (P)2013 Donny J Castle

Interesting story, poorly written

Would you try another book from Don Castle and/or John Anthony Davis?

No

Did the plot keep you on the edge of your seat? How?

This book has a moderately interesting plot, but a complete lack of sophistication in the writing makes me think that it was written by a high school student.

How did the narrator detract from the book?

It is possible that English is the narrator's second language. Alternatively, that the narrator is reading the words exactly as written (see above re lack of sophistication), and is not voice acting as most great narrators do. The dialogue is wooden, uncomfortable to listen to, and doesn't accurately reflect the way people speak. I'm halfway through the book, and haven't yet heard a single contraction!

If you could play editor, what scene or scenes would you have cut from Pecan Gap?

As I said, the plot is interesting, if a bit predictable. In the hands of a better writer this story would be fun to read or listen to. It's not the scenes that are wrong, it's the author's lack of language skills that make his book unlikable.

Any additional comments?

Your canned commentary indicates (for reasons that are quite valid) that this would be a good book for teenagers. However, I'd have to disagree when it comes to the quality of writing. This is not something that should be touted as a teenage "must read".

A well balanced investigative novel!

Would you recommend this audiobook to a friend? If so, why?

I would recommend it to a friend because it is well written and all of the pieces fit in the story. The language is very descriptive without all of the violence and vulgarity that some authors seem to enjoy.

What was one of the most memorable moments of Pecan Gap?

I really enjoyed when Jake returns to his home after doing some investigative work and finds that every room is destroyed except one. Then as he uses deduction he is able to make a discovery that keeps the plot moving. Very exciting!

Have you listened to any of John Anthony Davis’s other performances before? How does this one compare?

This was my first experience with a Davis performance so I cannot compare it. It was a very good audible experience.

Was this a book you wanted to listen to all in one sitting?

I really did want to continue listening to the book, but I started late at night. It was the kind of story that you want to finish.

Any additional comments?

I really liked how the author tied all of the pieces together in the novel. The use of urban and rural was also an interesting dynamic. I liked that Jake's mother and his past were part of the storyline and that more than one plot is going on in the book. I loved visiting Pecan Gap because the rural town and its characters were very believable. Looking forward to Jake Somers' next adventure!