At the outset of HAVANA, narrator William Dufris offers his almost-on-the-mark impersonation of Ricky Ricardo/ Desi Arnaz. Almost on the mark is also an apt description of just about everything else in Hunter's novel about Cuba in the 1950s. The story, featuring gunfights and gangsters, is enjoyable, although not quite believable. Similarly, Dufris's performance is almost on the mark. Some of his voices are perfect, including some of the characters with Spanish accents, while others come across as near caricatures. Yet, overall, the book, which features the exploits of ex-Marine Earl Swagger and a young Fidel Castro, provides entertaining fare, the kind of material that is ideal to listen to during a commute, at the gym, or on vacation.
Pub Date: Jan. 22, 2003
Duration: 13 hrs
DD ISBN: 1597103411
Publisher: Brilliance Audio
Review Posted Online: Jan. 22, 2026
Escape on a thrilling adventure with Soneela Nankani and Andrew Eiden as they narrate this suspenseful romance. A year has passed since Simi Chopra, her assorted crew, and Jack Danger pulled off a lucrative diamond heist. Now, the Chicago Mafia boss is demanding that the jewels be returned, so Simi gets the team back together. Nankani delivers an expressive performance that emphasizes Simi's conflict between her passion for Jack and the mission. Her distinct character voices keep the listener fully immersed. Eiden's lively tone gives Jack a subtle flair and confidence that make him easy to forgive and to love.
Pub Date: Aug. 20, 2024
Duration: 11 hrs, 15 mins
DD ISBN: 9780593907467
Publisher: Penguin Audio
Review Posted Online: Jan. 22, 2026
This is not a story about guns, but about blue pearls. Gerald Browne takes us to the Pacific Ocean and the world of pearl divers and natural gems and mixes in mystery, intrigue and suspense. Barry Bostwick portrays the characters in one voice, varying his intonation slightly for the Asian personalities. His reading style is very smooth, evidence of preparation and interest in the story. 18mm Blues is abridged well, collecting the important elements of the story. Unobtrusive music indicates the end of each side. Disappear into the mystery of the Far East and one of its most beautiful commodities.
Pub Date: Jan. 22, 1993
Duration: 3 hrs
Publisher: Audio Renaissance
Review Posted Online: Jan. 22, 2026
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