the reader makes this book

I'm a huge fan of crime fiction, legal thrillers, etc., and this book wasn't the most challenging story. But two things made it a great listen for me: the reader was outstanding and the author nailed the entire Jersey Shore -- from the peculiarities and vulgarities of Jerseyans language to the tacky and freewheeling world of beach life. As a native of the area, it was just like being there. This book won't enlighten you or change your life, but it is a good listen and a fine bit of mind candy to pass some hours - maybe while you lay on the beach at the Jersey Shore.

79 people found this helpful

A Guilty Pleasure

This was a great book, but not great literature. If you are looking for a sophisticated crime drama with deep meaning this book will not please. It is however a a fast paced read with very likeable characters that catch your interest and create a desire to know what is next. It was the first book in a while that I couldn't wait see what was next and found myself making time to finish listening to.

91 people found this helpful

I loved it -- and the whole series!

This book--and the rest of the author's "John Ceepak" mysteries--are hilarious and entertaining visits to the New Jersey shore, where local cops--a former MP and a surfer dude--track down bad guys in fictional Sea Haven. TILT-A-WHIRL, the first in the series, won the 2006 Anthony Award for "Best First Mystery" and will hook you on going back for more (all available here on audible.com). The dialog is crisp and full of sharp humor, made even better by the delivery of the excellent narrator. (If you've spent any time on the "Joisey" shore, you'll appreciate him even more!)

I got such a laugh from this book I visited the author's Website, which is also funny and entertaining. Be sure to download the perfectly believable Sea Haven visitor map, which shows where all the best spots are located! I'm hopping the next installment will be on audible in time for summer!

44 people found this helpful

All I can say is WOW!

Any additional comments?

I can't tell the readers or author how important this series of books have become to me. I am nearly a senior citizen (74 years old) who recently became a widow after 35 years of being more than happily married. Now I am struggling to find out just who I really am & to try & go forth in life. Reading at least 4 of these books so far they have spoken to me on more than a literary way. John Ceepak & his side kick Danny & all those who deal with them are teaching me something I should have known & followed in Kindergarten. The stories themselves are simple & enjoyable, life like & challenging when I ask myself "Could I do that?" Could I be like J. Ceepak with his code of honor? I had to give that a lot of thought. It is so easy to skip over. Be aware readers, I am 74 yrs old so this is a serious & meaningful question for me. And by the way it is in the ten commandments. Say what? But I am not going there per se. I did realize the "code" was very meaningful to me although I knew it also take compassion, patience & courage. So here is the rub….. what does it take to follow the example of the author Chris Grabenstein's description of being someone 'who does not lie, does not steal or does not cheat,' & more importantly does not tolerate those who do! I know I know what a Pandora's box this can become. & I can see the wall of resistance coming down like Niagara falls. And I agree it isn't for everyone, but I also know life can be much simpler, less stressful & so much less dramatic by taking this code seriously. So as I continue to read this entertaining & enticing series I have decided I am going try to try & do just this. Wish me luck in a world where none of this code is taken very seriously.



.

149 people found this helpful

My Review May Be As Blah As The Book

Although I listened all the way to the end, this book just didn't do it for me. And I really wanted to like i!. Tilt-a-whirl rides were always so much fun, remember? I was expecting more enjoyment to this story and yet, it wasn't there for me.

John Ceepak was a very thin cardboard character. I never felt I knew who he was, what he looked like, what he liked, what he did when he was off work, what history he had. And his behavior, the monotone way of speaking, the roger this, roger that--totally unbelievable and it did not endear me to him in any way. Danny, the narrator, was at least likeable and entertaining but certainly not main character material.

The story-line was just another meh moment. About two thirds in, I realized who committed the crime, although I was hoping to be wrong. The meh came to an end as the story did, when the over-used reveal came with an explanation that was really inappropriate and insensitive for a somewhat humorous book. It angered me--and I am not one to be offended by fiction, usually.

As far as the narrator, I think that although he was great at the different characters, he just went a bit above and beyond in his portrayals. It became annoying to me instead of funny. If I could have spoken to him, I would have told him to tone it down a notch.

I am clearly in the minority here. Perhaps I have become too picky. Or perhaps, I have become more discerning.

10 people found this helpful

Light Listen But Caution to Parents!

This was a fluff story and highly implausible, but okay for some entertainment. Rather like a juvenile book but the content was nothing I'd advise a child to hear! Great narration. 3.5 stars.

6 people found this helpful

Got my husband addicted to audiobooks

When I introduced my husband to the audio format, I knew I needed to hook him with a spectacular narrator. Jeff Woodman's performance of Tilt-a-Whirl was my answer. He captured both of our imaginations with his ability to bring every character (from Jersey Shore gangsters, to rookie cops, to even small children) to life, simultaneously conveying humor and suspense in the process.

Chris Grabenstein's series is fun and thrilling. I find it particularly addictive in the summer months. IMO, Sea Haven is a thinly veiled Long Beach Island, New Jersey, which is where I spent my summers growing up. I love all of the references, but Grabenstein's storytelling abilities make this series enjoyable for non-Jersey Shore aficionados as well.

12 people found this helpful

Beachy read

You can't exactly call this a cozy detective story, but it's light enough to recommend for a day on the beach. The thing I liked most is also the thing I liked least, the story is narrated by the main character's younger side kick. I liked this because it was different but at times it was too much hero worship. Pack it next to the sunscreen if you don't want the typical summer romance novel.

17 people found this helpful

The first John Ceepak

Grabenstein's novels are less complex than the best ones, but they are fun to listen to. The John Ceepak character is so straight laced that it is almost painful. Ceepak, and right, always win. Jeff Woodman does a good job as narrator.

11 people found this helpful

Great fun, like the ride, without the queasiness

What made the experience of listening to Tilt-a-Whirl the most enjoyable?

Danny and Ceepak are great fun! The plot has some real twists and goes deeper than your average quick and fun listen!

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

About the time you're sure you know what's going on there is a twist. The humor slides in and keeps sneaking up at just the right times too.

What does Jeff Woodman bring to the story that you wouldn???t experience if you just read the book?

I found myself walking saying "focus Danny" to myself in that same tone whenever I started chasing squirrels in my head. :)

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

I not only wanted to listen in one sitting - I downloaded the rest of the series. Love 'em!

Any additional comments?

Like Springsteen? Like fun reads with humor and some substance? Been to the Jersey boardwalk? If you answered yes to any of these give Danny and Ceepak a try!

12 people found this helpful