There’s a sick-minded serial killer in Savannah who is burying his victims alive and he appears to have Detective Pierce Reed in his sights, at least that’s what it looks like. Newspaper reporter Nikki Gillette is doggedly determined to not only get the story but to gain access to Reed and get him to open up to her. Yeah, that’s gonna happen.
The prologue begins with the first victim in that coffin and her death was chronicled in excruciating, painful detail, which set the stage for the story to come. I desperately wanted this guy captured as these murders were highly disturbing. It doesn’t help that being in tight, enclosed spaces is one of my deepest fears. The procedurals were tough to follow as the detectives were hampered by red herrings and leaks to the press, namely Nikki Gillette. When the killer shifts focus to her, things get even dicier, forcing Reed and Nikki to work closely together.
There wasn’t much in the way of romance but there was always a strong attraction between these two that eventually brings them together. One of the things I found problematic was how details of a case that may have been relevant weren’t revealed early enough for readers to participate in developing theories. With the procedurals all over the place, it was impossible. However, the mystery was interesting and at the last minute I opted to listen to the book because of the narrator. Natalie Naudus is one of my favorites and she’s the reason I rounded my rating up as her performance was outstanding and she elevated the story. I’m not sure I’ll continue the series (it intersected with her New Orleans series, which my group is reading) but if I do, I’m definitely going the audiobook route. She’s that good.
Book Info
- Release Date: December 1, 2020 (originally March 1, 2004)
- Series: Savannah #2
- Narrator: Natalie Naudus
- Audio Length: 13 hours, 37 minutes
- Publisher: Brilliance Audio
Sounds a bit disappointing, Jo. I am glad the narration won you over somewhat. Excellent review!
Thanks, Marialyce💜 Without the narrator, it would be just “okay.” She made it highly entertaining and let me ignore the plot issues.
Sorry to hear it wasn’t quite for you, Jo, but I’m glad that you managed to enjoy parts of it.
Thanks, Jacob💜 It was a very entertaining listening experience despite my issues.
Excellent review! I’m sure I would enjoy this!
Anne – Books of My Heart
Thanks, Anne💜 I hope you do.
Wonderful review Jo. Yes, even though I am often wrong in my guesses, I think it is important to give us an opportunity to figure things out. Glad the narrator is a good one, I will have to watch for her.
Thank you, Carla💜 I at least want a shot at figuring out the mystery. Natalie Naudus sounds like Julia Whelan!!!
Oh, I love Julia Whelan.
Excellent review Jonetta! I’ve listened to one book that she narrated (along with Erin Mallon who is one of my favorites). I’ll need to watch for more audios from Natalie Naudus’ . Thank you for including the audio sampler! She does have an amazing voice that draws you in.🤩🎧💖
Thanks, Kaceey💜 You know who she reminds me of? Julia Whelan! So you know I was entertained.
I’m not familiar with Julia Whelan. I’ll have to look into her books. Thank you Jonetta!💜
She’s tied with January LaVoy as my most favorite female narrator. She’s that good.
Fab review Jo glad the narrator saved it for you!
Thank you, Nicki💜 She kept me in the story.
Fantastic review Jonetta! Even though you’re not sure if you’ll carry on with this series, I’m glad you enjoyed!
Thanks, Susanne💜 If I do, it will definitely be on audio.
Terrific review, Jonetta! I’ve lost track of LJ over the years. Sounds like a narrator I should keep my eyes open for in the future.
Thank you, Julie💜 The narrator makes a big difference.