Layers of mystery and interlocking stories could make this a difficult listen were it not for the skills of narrator Erik Davies. He carefully characterizes hero David Loogan as a mysterious, evasive sort. This sets up questions, creates tension, and provides a rationale that defines both the plot and the protagonist. Davies's enigmatic portrayal makes sense of curious situations—for example, Loogan’s acting like a savvy dupe as he helps his boss, mystery journal owner Tom Kristoll, bury a body. Davies also projects Loogan's firm sense of justice, eye for detail, and determination. This cross section of personality traits anchors listeners to a consistent vision of the character as Davies's convincing minor characters work to make Loogan the fall guy for mounting body counts.
Pub Date: July 23, 2009
Duration: 11 hrs
Publisher: Penguin Audio
Review Posted Online: Jan. 22, 2026
Novelist Benet Archdale and housemaid Carol Stratford are two young, single parents who have no reason to know each other. They become tangled in a nightmarish spiral of kidnap, fraud, family violence and death. Ruth Rendell creates psychological suspense in thrillers that are compulsively readable or, in this case, listenable. British actress Imelda Staunton's reading is perfectly paced, and the characters are well defined. You'll have a hard time turning it off.
Pub Date: N/A
Duration: 9 hrs
Publisher: BBC Audiobooks America/ Chivers
Review Posted Online: Jan. 22, 2026
Emerson and Peabody are at it again! Uncovering antiquities takes a back-seat as the romantic archaeologists track down the master criminal who is stealing Egypt's ancient treasures. With the help of their precocious son, Ramses, the intrepid pair unravel this mystery in crowded bazaars, desert camps and the heart of the Black Pyramid. Barbara Rosenblat's reading fully measures up to the tale. She is a master of timing and nuance. Rosenblat's power for character interpretation has grown with each book in this amusing series. This is the best one yet.
Pub Date: N/A
Duration: 12 hrs
Publisher: Recorded Books Inc.
Review Posted Online: Jan. 22, 2026
© Copyright 2026 Kirkus Media LLC. All Rights Reserved.
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