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RETURN TO BLOOD

HANA WESTERMAN, BOOK 2

Maori author Michael Bennett crafts a beautifully written story, performed with authenticity by actor Miriama McDowell. In this second audiobook of the series, former Auckland detective Hana Westerman retreats to Tata Bay after solving New Zealand's first serial killer case. When her daughter, Addison, discovers a skeleton in the sand dunes near their home--seemingly linked to a 20-year-old murder--Hana feels compelled to investigate. First-person chapters from the victim's perspective are interspersed with third-person depictions of Hana, Addison, and others connected to the case. The audiobook offers insight into Maori culture, including ceremonial songs chanted by McDowell. While some Maori words lack translation, context provides clarity. Bennett's lyrical prose and McDowell's expressive narration combine for a rich, immersive listening experience.

Pub Date: May 21, 2024

Duration: 7 hrs, 15 mins

DD ISBN: 9781705087695

Publisher: Recorded Books Inc.

Review Posted Online: Jan. 22, 2026

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    THE SUM OF ALL FEARS

    Part of the joy of Tom Clancy novels is one's belief that the stories could come true. His latest entry stretches that some as we find international terrorists building a nuclear bomb which is used to set Americans and Russians against one another. Jay Robertson reads with a newscaster's voice, crisp and clear with a light touch of drama. However, he does little to help listeners identify Clancy's huge cast of characters, and dialects seem difficult for him as he occasionally slips in and out of character. Nonetheless, patient listeners are rewarded as the plot unfolds. This will be a welcome addition to any library justifying the price of the multi-cassettte volumes.

    Pub Date: N/A

    Duration: 16 hrs

    Publisher: Books on Tape

    Review Posted Online: Jan. 22, 2026

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      SILENT PREY

      John Sanford is back with another psychological thriller in his Prey series. Surgeon, psychopath and serial killer Bekker is on the loose again after the easiest jailbreak in recent memory. Ken Howard's reading moves along with all the brooding energy a reader could want from a suspense book. His narration is deep, clear and well-suited to the gravelly voices of retired detective Lucas Davenport and the other cops. While Howard manages good dialects and shifts in character, his female voices leave a lot to be desired. For the most part, the abridgment gleefully throws logic and characterization overboard in favor of thrills, but the basic flavor of many characters is still fairly well maintained.

      Pub Date: N/A

      Duration: 3 hrs

      Publisher: Harper Audio

      Review Posted Online: Jan. 22, 2026

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