Jefferson Mays has his work cut out for him as he gives voice to the myriad characters in this time-traveling story of murder and revenge. He is certainly up to the task. The mystery is part of the ongoing series featuring FBI Agent Aloysius Pendergast and Constance Greene as they attempt to corral the monstrous serial killer Enoch Leng. Listeners new to the series may find the plot a bit difficult to follow, but Mays helps make characters and plot details clear. The mixture of accents and curious euphemisms makes the novel a delightful trip into another time and place. Mays keeps the action flowing and portrays individual personalities distinctly.
Pub Date: Aug. 13, 2024
Duration: 11 hrs
DD ISBN: 9781668639207
Publisher: Hachette Audio
Review Posted Online: Jan. 22, 2026
The delivery, pacing, intricate plot, and complex characters make this audiobook a winner.
This audiobook provides listeners with two distinct but related narratives, each presented by a talented narrator. First, a self-described serial killer instructs would-be followers on how to be a successful murderer. The sophisticated and slightly ominous voice of Michael Geary explains step by step how to kill multiple people without getting caught. The second story is a police procedural describing the investigative work of Samantha "Sam" Hansen as she tracks the killer of a 14-year-old schoolgirl. Tamsin Kennard portrays Sam's mental health issues, her fears, her cleverness, and, most of all, her relentless pursuit of justice.
The delivery, pacing, intricate plot, and complex characters make this audiobook a winner.Pub Date: Feb. 24, 2026
Duration: 11 hrs, 37 mins
DD ISBN: 9781250434586
Publisher: Macmillan Audio
Review Posted Online: March 25, 2026
Kirkus Reviews Issue: May 1, 2026
An engaging and suspenseful listen.
Lisa Flanagan’s talented narration brings ex-detective Vinnie Taylor alive as she settles in a small town in Maryland and tries to rebuild her life. When a routine shopping trip ends in Vinnie receiving a call for help from a teen who believes her best friend has been murdered, Vinnie soon finds herself embroiled in secrets and lies, along with a past she can’t forget. In Vinnie, Flanagan creates a strong, likable character, and she also creates a thoroughly believable cast of supporting characters, including troubled teenagers. Flanagan injects the perfect amount of urgency in her narration, allowing the tension to build as the plot twists to its exciting conclusion.
An engaging and suspenseful listen.Pub Date: Jan. 6, 2026
Duration: 9 hrs
DD ISBN: 9780063439269
Publisher: Harper Audio
Review Posted Online: Feb. 10, 2026
© Copyright 2026 Kirkus Media LLC. All Rights Reserved.
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