Goldberg's collection of crime stories has plenty of dark humor, but narrator Johnny Heller never plays it for laughs. Heller stays true to the characters, who may say funny things but are not funny people. The production excels when Heller enters the minds and mouths of the tough guys and gals. (Many appear in earlier Goldberg novels.) Check out Heller as Peaches Pocotillo, the ex-con set up to take the fall in "Gangway," or as Rabbi David Cohen, the Mafia hit man turned rabbi in "Mazel." Author Tod Goldberg is a master of verbal confrontations, and Heller runs with them. The production is excellent--though more space between stories wouldn't hurt. "Pilgrims" even provides audiobook listeners the opportunity to hear a story about an audiobook listener.
Pub Date: March 16, 2021
Duration: 7 hrs, 30 mins
DD ISBN: 9781696604642
Publisher: HighBridge Audio
Review Posted Online: Jan. 22, 2026
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
An engaging listen, and arguably the best way to experience these stories.
This compelling collection of crime and mystery stories features fan favorites Colter Shaw and Lincoln Rhyme as they unravel cleverly crafted puzzles and investigations. The audiobook is elevated by veteran narrators Edoardo Ballerini and Kaleo Griffith. Ballerini delivers a polished performance, expertly pacing investigative scenes so that clues and revelations unfold naturally. He creates distinct characters without relying on exaggerated voices. Griffith brings an energetic, action-oriented style that suits the Shaw stories particularly well. His narration adds urgency to chase scenes and moments of suspense while maintaining clarity and momentum. Together, the narrators complement each other perfectly, creating variety across the collection and enhancing Deaver’s trademark twists and psychological suspense.
An engaging listen, and arguably the best way to experience these stories.Pub Date: Aug. 4, 2026
Duration: 9 hrs, 15 mins
DD ISBN: 9798217409310
Publisher: Penguin Audio
Review Posted Online: Sept. 12, 2026
© Copyright 2026 Kirkus Media LLC. All Rights Reserved.
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