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Ren #4

Ren: The Monster's Adventure

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Ren Lewis has seen it all, or so he likes to think.
He’s encountered every danger known to man. Due to his powers as a Dream Traveler and unstoppable work ethic, he’s experienced more than any human alive. But Ren is about to have a brand new experience.

He’s being dragged on a family vacation.

When a life altering event falls on Dahlia and Ren, he agrees to take a break from work and explore the West coast with his family. But since not everyone in the Lewis clan can dream travel, Ren is forced to endure regular Middling travel in a car.

This vacation from hell is actually a spiritual excursion meant to pull the demons out of Ren. The most powerful man in the world is stripped from his element and visited by three wise women whose jobs are to make him come to terms with his past, present and future.

This is a Christmas Carol retelling using a modern day Scrooge.

Scroll up and grab a copy today.

Books by this Author:

A Dream Traveler Series: The Lucidites Series

Awoken, #1:
Stunned, #2
Revived, #3

A Dream Travelers Series: The Reverians

Defects, #1:
Rebels, #2
Warriors, #3

A Dream Traveler Series: Ren

Ren: The Man Behind the Monster, #1:
Ren: God’s Little Monster, #2
Ren: The Monster Inside the Monster, #3
Ren: The Monster’s Adventure, #4
Ren: The Monster’s Death, #5

A Dream Traveler Series: Genetically Altered
Made to Kill, #1
Better off Dead, #2
Hungry for Blood, #3
Born Bad, #4

A Dream Travelers Series: Vagabond Circus

Suspended, #1:
Paralyzed, #2
Released, #3

Soul Stone Mage Series: An Urban Fantasy Witch Adventure

House of Enchanted, #1:
Dark Forest, #2
Mountain of Truth, #3
Land of Terran, #4
New Egypt, #5
Lancothy, #6
Virgo, #7

Ghost Squadron Series: A Military Space Opera Adventure

Formation, #1
Exploration, #2
Evolution, #3
Degeneration, #4
Impersonation, #5
Recollection, #6
Preservation, #7

Precious Galaxy Series: Fantasy Space Opera
Corruption, #1
Investigation, #2
Determination, #3
Obliteration, #4
Unstoppable Liv Beaufont Series: Urban Fantasy
The Rebellious Sister, #1
The Uncooperative Warrior, #2
The Defiant Magician, #3
The Triumphant Daughter, #4
The Loyal Friend, #5
The Stubborn Advocate, #6
The Relentless Fighter, #7
The Ferocious Force, #8
The Passionate Delegate, #9
The Unlikely Heroes, #10
Intergalactic Pest Control: Gaming Lit Space Opera

Ganked In Space, #1
Level Up Bitch, #2
It's Working As Intended, #3

Chick Lit Series:

Everyone In LA is an Asshole, #1
Everyone in LA is an Asshole, #2

147 pages, Kindle Edition

First published September 21, 2016

23 people are currently reading
57 people want to read

About the author

Sarah Noffke

232 books1,481 followers
Sarah Noffke is a prolific USA Today Best-Selling Author, who writes YA and NA science fiction, fantasy, paranormal and urban fantasy. Most of her stories draw on her experiences living on the West Coast, growing up in Texas or traveling the world.

Her passion for art, culture and literature drives her to create stories that are full of whimsey, humor and philosophy. Her books appeal to readers who enjoy an escape, a bit of magic mixed with science and the unexpected--like a dragon who tells bad jokes and has a video game addiction, but fights for justice.

Noffke's books are top rated and best-sellers on Amazon. Her books are available in paperback, audio and in Spanish, Portuguese, German, Dutch and Italian.

To stay up to date with Sarah, please visit her website and subscribe to her newsletter: www.sarahnoffke.com

For a complete list of books by Sarah and a suggested reading order, please see: www.sarahnoffke.com/reading-guide/

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Displaying 1 - 30 of 37 reviews
Profile Image for Petra.
819 reviews92 followers
December 8, 2016
My original Ren: The Monster's Adventure audiobook review and many others can be found at Audiobook Reviewer.
This utterly awesome novella should ideally be listened to after Ren: The Monster Inside the Monster, book 3 of the Ren series.
This was the ideal story to start off some festive holiday listening this year, as Sarah Noffke provides an extremely hilarious but also very heartwarming Ren-version of ‘A Christmas Carol’. Ren’s girlfriend, Dahlia, forces him to endure a family vacation accompanied by his daughter, Adelaide, and grandson, Lucien. It turns into the most memorable road trip for Ren as he meets three wise women, a lot of goats, a laid back gas station attendant, and a cool surfer dude. In the process, he learns a lot about himself and comes to terms with aspects of his past and makes further progress as far as his personal development and his relationships with the people close to him are concerned. Ms. Noffke also drops quite a bombshell into the storyline, which made me rather desperate to get the next Ren book because surely after that announcement there has to be another one?! I have previously admitted to being head-over-heels in love with Ren, and while I’d rather not analyze what that must surely say about me, some of his observations about life and humankind are simply wonderful. Yes, Ren is still extremely rude and snarky, but there were scenes during Ren’s vacation where I found myself wholeheartedly agreeing with his opinions. I now love him even more after all that he has gone through on his first ever vacation. There were so many moments where I was laughing out loud throughout this.

Tim Campbell once again narrated this epic adventure in a perfect manner. I don’t know what else I could possibly say that I haven’t said before, but with his British accent, the timely pacing and the faultless delivery of the sarcasm and disdain he just embodies Ren perfectly. There were no problems with the quality of the production.
Definitely a must-listen for all Ren fans!
Audiobook provided for review by the audiobookreviewer.com
Profile Image for ☕️Kimberly  (Caffeinated Reviewer).
3,595 reviews785 followers
April 23, 2020
A family vacation for Ren. Poor uptight Ren. This was hilarious, from clothing issues to squabbles. It also had some serious tones as Ren has to deal with some heartbreaking, unimaginable news. We see a whole other side of Ren on this vacation.

I cried, laughed and realized just how much I care about these characters. Noffke has done a splendid job with the world, characters and situations. Placing Ren in situations that involve spontaneity, bonding and adapting was brilliant.

This series has unexpectedly become a favorite, and I am nervous about the final audiobook. Ren can be difficult, but the more you get to know him the more you understand what drives him and what lies beneath all the impossible snark and attitude.

Tim Campbell narrates and has become the voice of Ren and secondary characters like his daughter and Dahlia. Pack your bags and travel with Ren, you won’t be sorry.

As with most fantasy series, this is best listened to in the order of its release. This review was originally posted at Caffeinated Reviewer
Profile Image for Kitlina.
2,006 reviews23 followers
October 10, 2016
*I have received a copy of this book for an honest review!*

Close your eyes for a fraction of a second and you'll miss it. You'll miss the real Ren. I didn't know he could be even more. How can a character evolve so much? From a petty thief to a hated but brilliant teacher to an out of this world savior of human kind and ultimately himself.
To know Ren has lived so much but actually didn't live at all until he freed himself is a bucket of ice cold water in your face. When I thought I had it all figured out, comes this novella and slaps me to kingdom come.
And, really Ms. Sarah "Evil Mastermind" Noffke, did you have to go there with Dahlia? I mean, hasn't she had enough? Hasn't the woman gone through enough shit Ren has thrown at her throughout their history? That was a shitty move to make. I can't even....
Now you have to write another book or novella to right this terrible wrong because I refuse to live in a world where there is so much injustice. You go and make me happy now. I want happy. I want Ren and Dahlia forever happy.
I know I sound just like a petulant 2 year old, maybe Lucien, but I refuse to give in. Now that Ren is all that and more. Way to go and rip my heart out.
Although, I kinda loved (in a purely sadistic and selfish way) seeing Ren suffer on this adventure trip with the family. OMG that was the cherry on the cake. Ren, filthy, sweaty and without a pair of knickers to his name. PRICELESS
And the goats, don't get me going about the goats. Where do you come up with this stuff? And of course now I want some apple pie. My stomach is doing car wheels asking for it.
Yep, Evil at its best.
Profile Image for Bec.
789 reviews17 followers
December 6, 2017
This his was an intriguing 'side' story for Ren. There is some heartbreaking news in this one. The whole family take a driving adventure and Ren must not use his powers so the family can stay together. They meet some interesting characters along the way and it's fun to see how Ren manages.
Profile Image for Pheebz.
275 reviews
February 16, 2017
Ren 3.5 By Sarah Noffke
Feb 15 2017

We start off with Ren Lewis addressing his agents at the Luciditie Institute telling them that after twenty years of being the Head Strategist he was stepping down. Ren who had never taken a day off from his duties in 20 years. Ren named his replacement as Agent Trent Reynolds. Raven asked Ren if he was going to get a life. Ren said “Something like that.” Ren’s reply was intriguing to me, made me wonder what was up.

Up until now Ren had refused to go on vacation with Dahlia, Ren just isn’t the relaxing vacation type person. Dahlia had decided they were all going to go on a real family vacation together, Dahlia, Ren, Adelaide, her son Lucian who is crawling now. Reynard “Pop’s”, will be joining them later.

For the first half of the book I couldn’t help but laugh at Ren’s response to just about everything and every one, in his true Ren Lewis fashion. He is so snarky , if I met someone like him in real life I would probably not find him so funny. I would probably break a chair over his rude head.

They start off with Dahlia driving. The E light came on, on the dash and neither Ren nor Dahlia knew what that light indicated, which amused Adelaide to now end. At first Adi thought they were kidding her. Dahlia told Ren to check the operations manual. Adelaide told them what it meant and that it had been on for a while. After they had ran out of gas , things got even more intriguing. An old blind women had approached him. She told Ren he was going to meet three wise women on his travels, that would give him advice that would benefit him greatly. That his future relies on him hearing the information given, putting it all together and following it through to the end. She told him these women would find him.

The first women they met when they stopped for directions her name was Colleen, “Leen” for short, she was a humanitarian who nourished people with food. Of course Ren distrust her because who takes strangers in and feeds them? Ren was having quite a bad time a goat had gotten into their car because Adi left her door open in her rush to find that wonderful smell. It at all and only Ren’s clothing.
The second women Stephanie Colemen, “Ephanie” for short. She was a rude Tour guide. They met after picking Reynard from the San Francisco air port.
The Third one was a flower child Jessica, “Sica” for short. Adelaide had met who was in need of a ride so Adi told her she could ride with them. It was a while before Ren had noticed her in the back seat of the car.As they were making their way to the Red wood State Park.
Something else with all three women and the old gypsy women he met first, they all instinctively knew his name.

We found out what had been weighing heavily on Dahlia’s mind. She and Ren had agreed not to discuss it while they were on their family vacation. Even Pop’s had been told what was going on. Adi was in the dark at this point. Ren is not sure how he can be there for Dahlia in her time of need. Emotions is not something Ren knows how to handle, he was so far out of his wheelhouse here.

I was breathless after reading this book. So many feelings and such growth for these characters we have come to love over the past several years. So many thought provoking turns. I am almost afraid to read book four, that will be out soon. I have got to say I just love this world that Mrs. Noffke has created. I love the morals and life lessons that are woven throughout her books.She doesn’t tell the readers what to think or how they should feel, it just happens in an organic way with her work. This is another win in the Ren series.
814 reviews
October 15, 2016
I received a copy of this book for an honest review.

This was my favorite Ren yet. Ren is taken out of his comfort zone and going on a vacation with Dahlia, Adelaide, and Lucien with one drawback he cannot dream travel to their destination. I saw a new side of Ren in this book but don’t get me wrong his snarkiness was still there. Watching the interactions between Ren and Adelaide and then Adelaide and Lucien was amazing and heartwarming.

The adventures they go on are nothing short of hilarious and eye-opening. To see what Ren went through to make Dahlia happy had me laughing. As you know Ren is not an outdoors family vacation type guy but he does it for Dahlia. All I can say is look out for goats and strange old women. I was cracking up through this.

In true Sarah Noffke fashion she does toss in a twist that had my heart hurting but all in all this was great to see the bond Ren built with Dahlia, Adelaide, and Lucien and the bond between Adelaide and Lucien. I really would like more of Ren but if this is the end it was a great trip.
Profile Image for Rabid Reader.
959 reviews16 followers
October 30, 2016
A great novella in which Dahlia drags Ren, Adalaide and Lucien on a road trip to hell (if you believe what Ren has to say that is!) Ren's sarcastic humour and general disdain is once again in full flow in this novella and I loved every word of it. You can not help but love this caustic, but amusing, character as he tries to hide his emotions and fear behind repartee and arrogance. With shades of A Christmas Carol, 3 women push Ren forward on a journey of self discovery that will hopefully help him find some peace. Wrapped up within the humour, sarcasm and enlightenment, are whispers of future darkness, suspense and sadness. In the audiobook version, Tim Campbell does his usual great job of narration. His voice creates images of the story and characters in your mind, which enhances this great story even further. Ren's story pulls you in, captures your heart, makes you think and makes you smile. It is touching, humorous and revealing, but it also has an edge of uncertainty and fear threaded within it. I can not wait for the next part of the story.
Profile Image for Stephanie Runion.
358 reviews
October 17, 2016
Ren goes on an epic adventure with his "beloved family" and along the way he he has a series of interesting interactions. Ren doesn't love nature or people as you all may know, which causes something unexpected to happen to our man of mystery along the way... Buckle up its a bumpy ride laced with the expected snark, some sage wisdom, new unexpected characters, and goats. Ren 3.5 is another amazing journey into Noffkeland not to be missed.
Profile Image for Chase.
Author 10 books7 followers
January 3, 2020
Ren Lewis is not a man of a lot of patience. He has carefully built his life the way he wanted it to be and then got thrown the curve balls of having an unknown daughter who was also pregnant. Now Ren is being dragged on a family vacation his partner has put together. Which means he is going to be stuck in a car with his daughter, grandson and partner, going who knows where and then doing who knows what (Alpaca farm anyone)? Will he survive?

This is a great shorter story of the life of Ren. And one of my favorites.
Profile Image for Ms. Just One More Book  (Kris Miller).
154 reviews16 followers
January 28, 2017
(Excerpt from REN 3.5)

"People with a low IQ, no lives, and a serious misunderstanding of how natural selection works seek out adventures. It’s these [idiots] who elect to bungee jump or parachute or shop in malls. Did the Native Americans jump off cliffs for the sheer thrill? Did English settlers throw down with bears to find out who came out on top? Did aborigines walk on coals? No, and for the simple fact that surviving life was enough of an adventure for them.

But fat Americans and useless Europeans shell out big bucks to some guy with a soon-to-produce-cancer tan so they can go paragliding and jet boating. These people don’t need a high. They need to get a life. They need to live on an edge, where they are doing something meaningful. Experiencing the real essence of life while in subconscious or conscious form. They need to get off the bloody sofa and do that which scares them, no wires and no parachute. Adventures aren’t something one seeks. If we are living a real life then the adventure is a part of the ride. It doesn’t have to be inserted or discovered. It’s in most moments. It’s a part of the job.

That’s how I’ve always lived. But then I had to go off and attach permanent people into my life. People with no real lives. People with questionable day jobs. People who poop themselves. People who drag me on their phony adventures.

I’m Ren Lewis and I’m a prisoner in this life."

_________________

Once again Sarah Noffke takes us on another fantastical ride with one of my all time favorite characters Ren. A humorous take on Charles Dicken's 'A Christmas Carol', Ren is visited by three wise (and wholly interesting) women who push him to take a look at his life, past, present and future. In true Ren fashion, he believes these people to be bloody gits who's sole purpose is to continue breathing long enough for him to regret his own next breath. If there was a God in his opinion, these drain's on society would have been taken out years ago by the nearest catastrophe. Full of sarcasm and snark, both from Ren and the rest of the cast, as well as touching poignant moment, the story will have you laughing from beginning to end.

One of my many favorite passages in this book:

“Nothing, nothing at all. Just delirious from hunger,” she says. “Then eat your young,” I say, indicating Lucien beside her, who is now waving the dumb plastic keys around like he’s a big hotshot. “That’s what rats and other pests do.”
Profile Image for Lesley.
399 reviews12 followers
October 13, 2016
Around a 4.5, but I'll round up. I continue to be amazed at how Noffke can take such an unlikable character and make us want to read about him. Ren: The Monster's Adventure made me love Ren even more because it shows exactly how much he is changing and growing.

Plot:
Dahlia persuades Ren to go on a family vacation with her, Addie and Lucien (who is now two). Along the way, we learn what has been going on with the family over the past two years, and Ren learns some hard truths about himself.

Characters:
In Monster Inside the Monster, we saw Ren soften quite a bit. The Monster's Adventure takes that a little bit further, and we see that no matter how much he protests, Ren is really caring. We also learn about his fears and see how they motivate his behavior.

Dahlia is better than ever, and it was such a relief to see Addie has bonded with Lucien. It was also fun to see how she toys with Ren. The best things was seeing glimpses of how much Ren cares about Lucien.

Writing:
I thought the first three Ren books were really hard to read because Ren makes himself seem so negative. This novella reversed that trend, and Ren really showed (even though it was sometimes difficult) how good he could be. He's still no prince, but it's easy to see that his family (and the adversities that they have faced together) have made him much more human.

As is the case with most of Noffke's books, the novella is well-edited, so it's a breeze to get through. It seems like there is less (at least a little less) cursing and fewer sexual situations, but I'd probably still rate the book a PG-13 or an R because Ren loves the F-word.

Bottom Line:
I've read the Lucidites, the Reverians, and the previous Ren books, so I'm always amazed by how much Ren has changed (for the better). The novella is a must-read for all Ren lovers because it not only gives us more insight on what has caused those changes (and what will likely cause him to grow even more, but also serves up a little mystery, magic and romance along the way. It's also quite humorous to see Ren so far out of his element.
Profile Image for Kim Pruitt.
312 reviews
November 7, 2016
I began this novella super excited to hear all about my favorite little family, when slowly but surely things went from good to ugly over just a few short chapters. As I dove deeper and deeper into the story I knew, this isn't right! I don't listen to books like this! This isn't happening, this isn't happening! WHY I screamed!

Dahlia, the superstar pop diva has dragged Ren and his daughter Adalaide with her baby Lucian on their first family vacation. Great! This should be a belly full of laughs I say to myself. Not entirely wrong, but the story does take a very serious note from in the middle until the end. In the beginning of the vacation, they run out of gas and end up at a lonely gas station in the middle of nowhere. While Ren is trying to figure out how to get the attendant to pump the gas for him, without him indulging the fact that he doesn't know how, he is approached by an odd old woman. She warns him that he will encounter three wise women along his travels. These women give Ren cryptic messages about life, his past, present, and future. And with Ren's super paranoid personality to boot, the relationship between him and these women is hilarious!

I love this odd little family Noffke has created. They are the total opposite of my family, and what I secretly always wished for in parents as a child. Because of my love for this series, the turn this book takes really messed with me. I guess cause I forgot about the differences between Dahlia and Ren, and was so wrapped up in the latest arrival, Adalaide's baby distracting me from who these books are really about, Ren.

Narrator Review
Tim Campbell reprises his role once more for us as Ren Lewis. Ah Tim, how do I love thee, let me count the ways...1) Brilliant accent! 2) Comidic timing. 3) Zero filter, and telling people what you really think! 4) Vocabulary, and proper usage just at the right time, (see comidic timing!). 5) The fact that I can not tell the difference between you and Ren! Acting skills, like a boss! I could go on, but then I wouldn't have anything new and cool to say about you in the next review ;)

**Audiobook provided by the author for an honest review**
Profile Image for Kelly Marie.
596 reviews8 followers
December 15, 2016
More Ren! And on vacation?! OMG Sarah has truly outdone herself on this one! If you know Ren, then you know how snarky and what a debbie downer he can be. But he always speaks what is on his mind and has no issue telling you what he really thinks. He has been my favorite character since the Lucidites series and I get incredibly giddy when Sarah give us more. He goes on vacation with the fam but has to do it Middling style, in a car and everything. If anything can happen, it does. His snark, plus Dahlia, and the “life ruiner” absolutely makes this a laugh out loud story. Everyone has a demon to battle but some don’t know how to go into battle to beat their demon. I don’t think Ren knows how to deal with his own personal issues and feelings. While on this Middling adventure he is taught some life lessons on the way and will continue the story with a smile on your face and a belly laugh. As things progress we learn about a huge demon that he needs to put to rest. It stopped my heart and I didn’t know if I should shake Sarah Noffke for making me laugh then cry in one sitting or if I should just suck it up and enjoy the rest of the story. I chose the latter because, well, I need more Ren, LOL! Thank you, Sarah, for another adventure with Ren. He truly is my favorite character ever and I look forward to him everyday. An absolute must read!
Profile Image for Chessy The Cat.
340 reviews28 followers
November 29, 2016
The Lewis Family Vacation

Ren Lewis is in a living hell. He’s on vacation with his family and girlfriend. Ren doesn’t do vacation. Anything and everything that can go wrong for him does so. It’s comical and sad at the same time. Will Ren just survive or will he grow in character from the experience?

Noffke’s novella, Ren: The Monster's Adventure (A Ren Novella, #3.5), is in response to overwhelming requests from Ren fans. And, boy, does Noffke deliver! Ren’s character has been evolving throughout this entire series. But, he has not lost his British snark.

This novella is a surprising departure from the other Ren novels. The entire focus is on the vacation and family away from the Institute or other dream travelers. It also sets the stage for book four. I can’t wait for it to be published.

5 out of 5 stars.
Profile Image for Lisa.
281 reviews
December 14, 2016
One never realizes how much they’ve missed the incomparable Ren Lewis until Sarah Noffke puts out another book in his series. The Monster’s Adventure is an enjoyable novella that brings us up to date on Ren and into the family vacation from hell (well not really, but it’s torturous for him). Through the vacation adventures, Ren is forced to examine his past in order to create a better present and future as he deals with some unfortunate truths. Per the usual, I loved this story. It hit really close to home as I’ve had to deal with some similar experiences revealed in this book, so it was a good reminder about letting go and making the most out of every day. And it’s an even better reminder when the story is told through the voice and mind of the world’s most arrogant dream traveler. Good times!
Profile Image for Trisha.
1,087 reviews17 followers
Read
November 5, 2016
Ren Lewis on vacation, now that is just funny, Ren doesn't do vacations, and what is worse is since not all of the family can dream travel it is a car travel trip, and that is all I will say about that. You need to read this book for yourself or if you are like me get the audio version and have narrator Tim Campbell read it to you, he is the perfect Ren Lewis, and this is the perfect book to get you started in on your holiday spirit.

Sarah Noffke and Tim Campbell have teamed up again for a awesome audiobook, but I am sure if you just want to read the book for yourself you will still love Ms. Noffke's book and out snarky, tell it like it is friend Ren.
3,977 reviews14 followers
December 19, 2016
( Format : Audiobook )
"She's lucky I'm such a tolerant and patient man."
I have had the Ren series of books in my 'to read' pile for some time but somehow never picked them out. Until I was gifted an audible copy of Ren, the Monster's Adventure, by the author. What a joy this was - the archetypal superior, disdainful and grouchy Brit. forced out of his comfort zone on holiday with, of all things, a child.
The narrator is superb - just the right level of callous distain combined with a perfect accent (even if the pronunciations of some words are rather odd). Very funny and a pleasure to while away boring grey days and early dark evenings. Now I must find the others in the series...
Profile Image for Jean.
912 reviews39 followers
November 13, 2016

More of Ren..

I'm glad that the author decided to write another book about Ren.

He has developed a lot since the first book and has gone from
an egotistical know-it-all,
to a bachelor
and now, to a spouse and is still growing and developing.

I don't want to say too much about this book and give anything away.

Overall, an entertaining and worthwhile read, the only problem,
now I want to read more about Ren..


I liked Tim Campbell as the Narrator, he did well.

Note:
"This audio book was provided by the author, narrator, or publisher at no cost in exchange
for an unbiased review."
Profile Image for Megan (ReadingRover).
2,008 reviews47 followers
December 24, 2016
This was a great addition to the Ren series. Sarah Noffke has done a fantastic job developing his character. This play on A Christmas Carol was an appropriate tale for Ren as he makes a fine Scrooge. This novella also revealed some details that the last book did not and really had me wanting more of the series. I hope that the author will continue with it.
Profile Image for Tommi Crow.
183 reviews2 followers
November 11, 2016
Awesome Family Adventure!

When Ren and his family travel up the California coast in a big gas hungry SUV, not only is it going to be snarky and funny, you may just may learn a thing or two about our favorite red headed Brit. This is a must read for all Ren lovers!!!
Profile Image for Heather Vern.
85 reviews13 followers
November 21, 2016
Our beloved ren goes on a family vacation. He encounters odd things, starts to appreciate things that are in his life, new hardships are uncovered. This was a really nice short read. It took rens hate for trees and goats to the max. Lol
Profile Image for Lorena.
856 reviews23 followers
November 18, 2019
This is the fourth book in Sarah Noffke’s Ren series, which is part of her Dream Traveler universe. As always, Ren has a filthy mouth and does his best to insult everyone around him, but this time he is forced to face his past and confront his emotions. In the context of a hilarious family vacation where everything seems to go weirdly wrong, Ren and his loved ones all get a chance to learn and grow.

I didn’t realize that this was loosely based on A Christmas Carol before listening, but I definitely got that vibe. I love how Ms. Noffke used visitations from three blithe spirits (or “wise women”) to help Ren deal with his painful emotions so he can have a better future with his family. This story was both hilarious and heartwarming.

As always, I was captivated by Tim Campbell’s narration. His pacing is good and I enjoy his character voices. The voice and British accent he uses for Ren is perfect for Ren’s snarky comments. I definitely recommend the audiobook.

I was given a free copy of this audiobook by the author and volunteered to provide an honest review.
Profile Image for Katy.
1,494 reviews10 followers
February 1, 2023
I loved this story. It spoke to me, much like the three women, in many ways and, like every book I've read by Sarah Noffke, so far, it's made me think. Which is good!

The journey that Ren finds himself on in this story, is one we all have. Facing up to endings is so much harder than rejoicing in beginnings, so I had every sympathy with his struggles.

At the same time, this was also a lovely story about the time that we do spend with those we love, even enduring things we find unendurable, purely because that pleases the loved one we are travelling with and, in the end, finding the experience a necessary part of the journey.

As usual, I laughed, and I wept, reading Ren's journey of acceptance.

So, now that I've finished this, it's on to book five: The Monster's Death.

I can't wait to see how this one will read, so I'll see you on the flip side, to tell you!
Profile Image for Robin.
80 reviews1 follower
April 12, 2018
Funny as usual and seeing Ren become more of a "regular" man was amusing. It was a tad difficult to find and connect his visitors. I was very happy to see how Adelaide had changed! Excellent word building as well. Lol, a favorite description was of a couple of kids (baby goats), whom Ren claimed to be the "spawns of hell." Lolol! Great editing as to be expected. A satisfying end, although I'm a tad sad as book 4 will be the last of the series. I'm off to read now! :-) 

My star ratings include these 5 elements:
2★ story line
1★ engaging characters
1★ use of world building/descriptions
1★ narration or editing
1★ the ending
Profile Image for Kristen Lewendon.
8,429 reviews63 followers
October 31, 2017
It's hilarious and tragic, which is an unexpected pairing. Ren has been dragged along on the most disastrous family vacation ever. The author's ruthless application of the question "what's the worst that can happen?" liberally spiced with Murphy's Law gives us a road trip that awe inspiring in it's ridiculousness. Add Christmas Carol-like visitations with three wise women, and Ren's forced to confront his fears and shortcomings. With every new book in this series, curmudgeonly Ren becomes more and more human to us.
I received a complimentary copy of this book.
Profile Image for Ashley Hedden.
5,259 reviews43 followers
May 8, 2021
The Monster's Adventure (Ran #4) was a good read by Sarah Noffke. A life altering event happens to Dahlia and Ben, and it makes him take a break from work and explore the West Coast with his family. Ben must endure regular traveling in a car since not everyone in his family can dream travel. Ben is visited by three wise women to come to terms with his past, present, and future. I can't wait to read more by the author.
Profile Image for Roger.
5,644 reviews28 followers
September 26, 2019
Ren: The Monster’s Adventure, my twenty-sixth read from author Sarah Noffke. After having read Ren: The Man Inside the Monster (Ren Series #3, I’m continuing the series sequentially. A well written, interesting read, with intriguing, well developed characters. Up next is Ren: The Monster’s Death (Ren Series #4), the conclusion of the series. (RIP Marley January 20, 2014 - July 24, 2018).
Profile Image for Veronica.
1,013 reviews5 followers
September 9, 2018
Hilarious!

I kept laughing at poor Ren! So many funny things. On the serious side, it's quite the journey, and a lot of good advice and keen insight along the way. Brilliantly executed and I'm looking forward to the last Ren book.
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