Linda

A look into another culture

Revisado: 03-27-21

The most interesting aspect of this novel is the view into modern day Indian culture. The conflict for the characters - tradition or acceptance of more modern social standards, held my attention throughout. I liked the main characters and the presentation of each person's challenges, pain, and positive/negative traits. However, this novel is essentially a "happy ending" story, so the actual tragedies of religious, political, and social clashes are described in a lighter manner than the reality. Overall, it was an enjoyable listen.

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Excellent - in every way

Revisado: 11-28-20

This is a "who dun it" that excels. Characters are well developed, even the minor ones. Peter Diamond is an appealing character: retired police detective down on his luck, strong thinker but with a soft heart for a child, The plot seems at first to be two stories, but about 2//3 through they converge, and a very intriguing story it is! And the narrator, Simon Prebble, voices each character like the true actor he is. I strongly recommend this Peter Diamond mystery.

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Layer upon Layer

Revisado: 11-21-20

I have read most of Anthony Horowitz novels and enjoyed them. The Moonflower Murders was less satisfying for two reasons:
First) it contains a novella within the main novel. This novella is to illustrate how the characters in one book were actually leads to the solution of the main mystery. However, the novella distracted me from the main story, so much so that I almost forgot what the main mystery was about; and Secondly) the final solution to the main mystery was so complicated, layer upon layer of clues and misleading clues, that it detracted from the enjoyment of finally learning who the villain was. The narrators were fine, though I preferred the male voice to the female one. Perhaps this book is better to read, than to listen to.

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Slow Start - But stick with it!

Revisado: 09-19-20

The opening chapters gave the idea that this would be just an ordinary police mystery. Jaded, old fashioned police detective VS irritating younger officers. But the story develops into a complex mystery told by three different characters. The main characters are well developed, especially Peter Diamond, the lead character. Simon Prebble, the narrator, is excellent, as usual. I've listened to several of his recordings - always perfectly performed.

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New kind of detective

Revisado: 09-03-20

Complicated plot kept my interest. Elements of aboriginal culture and beliefs made the book even more interesting. However, the detective, Boney, was too perfect and confident in his abilities to solve a crime.

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Excellent listen - in many ways

Revisado: 08-16-20

Small Moving Parts is a captivating story which holds the listeners attention throughout. The setting is West Texas, probably in the 1960's. The story is an authentic depiction of west Texas life. Sixteen year old Dodger has a miserable home life, no money, not much of a future except maybe working at a gas station. Harley Cain is somewhere over 60 years old, living out his final year on his struggling ranch. They meet in an unusual way and form a friendship that takes them through aperilous experience. During those days, Dodger learns much from Harley about tackling and surviving hardships. Harley gains from Dodger a second chance to connect. Most satisfying is that both men are intrinsically honorable, decent people. In even the greatest danger, each one retains his honor.
The author's writing is clear, undecorated, but with vivid descriptions of the land, wildlife, and human feelings. The narrator, Mark Bramhall, MAKES the book. He is an accomplished actor/narrator who brings alive every character in a distinctive voice for each. Every great narrator must be an actor.

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Good story; Fair narrator

Revisado: 08-05-20

The search for a long lost son combined with the culture of the Ojibway gave richness to the plot. There were enough twists and turns to hold the listener's interest
However, the narrator is not a convincing actor. He has a pleasant, mellow voice, but he can't replicate a woman or a child.
And when he's doing conversation between characters, it often does not sound natural. Emphasis on the wrong word. Too casual when there should be some weight. It detracted from the believability of the characters.

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Plodding narrative

Revisado: 07-15-20

I've listened to several Shute novels and have liked them all. However, this story plods along, recounting tedious preparations for the expedition. Also, there is little character development. The narrator does not create much distinction between the characters' voices.

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Dick Francis is a master

Revisado: 06-08-20

Fascinating mystery. Subject is art theft instead of racing, the usual Francis subject. Great danger from international criminals. Very Interesting three main characters. Excellent narration

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Still great, the second time around

Revisado: 05-16-20

I've READ all the Jackson Brodie novels and was completely entranced by them. Now, several years after reading them,
I decided to listen to the books because Steven Crossley is such a good narrator and I missed Jackson Brody, the main character. My expectations were fully rewarded by both the novel and narrator. The key to the book's excellence are the characters, especially Jackson. He's a man you simply enjoy spending time with - sardonic, smart, yet a bit of a romantic. He wants to be detached, but he can't help getting involved, "helping out" The plot takes a winding, meandering path . It keeps you wondering. At times you think you know what will come, but Atkinson takes the story elsewhere. I plan to listen to books 3 & 4, as long as Steven Crossley is the narrator

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