by John Grisham ; read by Michael Beck ‧ RELEASE DATE: Oct. 18, 2022
Awards & Accolades
Our Verdict
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In true Grisham style, this audiobook has a rich historical background, which narrator Michael Beck weaves through its tale of deceit, betrayal, and murder. Two boys, Keith Rudy and Hugh Malco, grow up as friends in 1960s Biloxi, Mississippi. They remain friends until their teen years when Keith’s father becomes a well-known prosecutor and Hugh’s father becomes the biggest gangster in town. Beck’s narration brings the red-hot flavor of Mississippi culture to life for listeners. His Southern accent is deliciously warm and inviting, and every character he plays is distinct. He delivers humor with outstanding rhythm and timing. This is another expertly performed novel that Grisham fans won’t want to miss.
Pub Date: Oct. 18, 2022
Duration: 17 hrs, 30 mins
DD ISBN: 9780593607459
Publisher: Random House Audio
Review Posted Online: Jan. 22, 2026
by C.J. Box ; read by David Chandler ‧ RELEASE DATE: N/A
C.J. Box writes about life in wild Wyoming, short stories of people living a rugged life by choice or by circumstance. David Chandler narrates in a rough-edged whiskey voice that suggests summer heat, bitter winters, and windswept prairies, guiding the listener through 10 adventures of men like Fish and Game Officer Joe Pickett. Chandler brings the listener into this strange world where, more often than not, men have to create their own justice. His performance of the economical stories, some rarely seen, is perfect. The tale of the frozen body of a Native American basketball player turned speed freak, her arm reaching through the ice of a lake in a final jump shot, is one of the most fascinating in the collection.
Pub Date: N/A
Duration: 7 hrs, 30 mins
DD ISBN: 9781470392796
Publisher: Recorded Books Inc.
Review Posted Online: Jan. 22, 2026
by Peter Grainger ; read by Gildart Jackson ‧ RELEASE DATE: June 2, 2026
Jackson’s reflective performance, wide emotional range, and subtle humor make this an irresistible listen.
Awards & Accolades
Our Verdict
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Gildart Jackson’s stellar narration is a perfect fit for this splendid police procedural and its well-developed characters. The Norfolk, England, investigative team is called upon to reopen an inquiry into the murder of Lord Freddie Thorpe. Popular retired superintendent Smith’s occasional presence affects everyone’s outlook, including that of his capable replacement, DCI Cara Freeman. Jackson’s portrayal makes her a force to be reckoned with, and he realistically renders both upper-class suspects and working-class locals. Details of the team’s private lives and relationships add verisimilitude to a complex and compelling plot, and the squad’s dedication to doing right by the victim is moving and fascinating.
Jackson’s reflective performance, wide emotional range, and subtle humor make this an irresistible listen.Pub Date: June 2, 2026
Duration: 14 hrs, 32 mins
DD ISBN: 9781668660645
Publisher: Hachette Audio
Review Posted Online: June 30, 2026
Kirkus Reviews Issue: Aug. 15, 2026
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