MEDIA

Out of Aces

by Stephanie GUERRA
(Betting Blind: Bk. 2). 5 CDs. 5:19 hrs. Brilliance. 2015. $14.99. ISBN 9781501251054.
COPY ISBN
Gr 9 Up—Picking up the story where Betting Blind (Skyscape, 2014) left off, this second installment centers on Gabriel James, who has left home to escape Phil, his mom's boyfriend, even though he hates to leave his mom and girlfriend, Irina Petrova, behind in Seattle. He manages to land a job as a bartender in Las Vegas even though he is not of legal age. He works hard to prove he can make it but not without trouble and need for guidance. Familiarity with the first book is not necessary to understand the plot, but Gabe is an intriguing character, and listeners may choose to go back. Nick Podehl nails Gabe's uncertainty and bullheadedness while moving between male and female voices with ease.
VERDICT A great audio for at-risk teens; even better for average listeners who like shady characters, action, and sticky situations that are true to life.
Reviewed by Karen Alexander, Lake Fenton High School, Linden, MI , Aug 01, 2015

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