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- Title: City of Prey (An Ava Gold Mystery—Book 1)
- Author: Blake Pierce
- Narrator: Kaden Kroll
- Length: 07:32:45
- Version: Abridged
- Release Date: 25/10/2021
- Publisher: Findaway Voices
- Genre: Mystery, Thriller & Horror, Detective Stories
- ISBN13: 9.78E+12
I’ve always believed that a good story can transport you, much like a dusty road through a foreign land, and ‘City of Prey (An Ava Gold Mystery – Book 1)’ by Blake Pierce, narrated by Kaden Kroll, does just that. From the first chapter, this mystery thriller unfolds like a map of hidden histories, pulling you into the gritty streets of 1920s New York City with a raw, pulsating energy. As a travel writer who’s wandered through countless cities, soaking in their underbellies and whispered secrets, I was immediately hooked by the atmospheric authenticity of this tale. You can almost hear the clink of speakeasy glasses and the distant wail of jazz as Ava Gold, a pioneering female homicide detective, navigates a man’s world with grit and determination.
This audiobook experience reminded me of a time when I was staying with a family in Oaxaca, listening to their grandmother weave stories each evening. Her voice, full of gravitas and perfectly timed pauses, made every tale feel intimate and urgent. Similarly, ‘City of Prey’ captures that oral storytelling magic, thanks to Kaden Kroll’s narration. But before I dive into the listening experience, let me share why this story resonated with me on such a personal level.
As someone who’s often found solace in the hidden corners of cities – from the bustling markets of Marrakech to the shadowy backstreets of Havana – I connected deeply with Ava Gold’s journey. She’s a 34-year-old widow and single mom, clawing her way up to become the first female homicide detective in her NYPD precinct. Her struggle against societal norms and personal loss hit close to home. It reminds me of a time when I was navigating the Atacama Desert in Chile, listening to ‘One Hundred Years of Solitude’ on audiobook. The surreal landscape mirrored the magical realism of García Márquez’s words, much like how Ava’s world of speakeasies, mafia rings, and horrific mental asylums mirrors her internal battles. Her tenacity in a world that mocks her use of psychological profiling – a nascent field in the 1920s – felt like my own stubborn pursuit of stories in places others overlook.
Delving into the content, ‘City of Prey’ is a heart-pounding suspense thriller that masterfully blends historical detail with the chilling pursuit of a psychotic serial killer targeting young women. Blake Pierce crafts a narrative that’s as much about Ava’s personal transformation as it is about the cat-and-mouse game with the killer. The stakes couldn’t be higher when Ava realizes she might be the next target, and Pierce’s ability to weave shocking twists kept me on edge, much like a sudden turn on a mountain road. The themes of resilience, instinct, and the fight for recognition in a patriarchal system are palpable, making Ava a character you root for with every fiber of your being. For fans of detective stories and mystery thrillers, this audiobook offers a fresh perspective through its strong female lead and historically rich backdrop.
Now, let’s talk about the audiobook experience itself, because a story is only as good as the voice that tells it. Kaden Kroll’s narration is a standout, bringing a nuanced depth to Ava’s toughness and vulnerability. You can almost feel the weight of her determination in every word, as Kroll modulates her tone to reflect both the hard-edged detective and the tender mother. Her pacing is impeccable, building tension during the killer’s rampages and slowing down to let the emotional beats of Ava’s personal life sink in. The audio quality is crisp, immersing you in the dangerous back alleys and jazz clubs of New York. Whether I was listening while cooking a pot of arroz con pollo or walking through my neighborhood, Kroll’s voice made the city come alive, as vivid as any street I’ve ever wandered.
That said, no journey is without its bumps. While the plot is riveting, there are moments where the pacing feels slightly uneven, particularly in the middle sections where Ava’s internal monologues can slow the momentum of the thriller. Additionally, while Kroll’s narration is generally excellent, there are instances where secondary characters’ voices blend together, lacking distinctiveness. However, these are minor quibbles in an otherwise captivating listening experience. For anyone seeking a mystery audiobook that combines historical intrigue with a strong protagonist, ‘City of Prey’ is a must-listen.
Comparing this to other works in the genre, I found echoes of the atmospheric tension in Tana French’s Dublin Murder Squad series, though Pierce’s focus on historical detail and gender dynamics sets ‘City of Prey’ apart. It also shares a kinship with the psychological depth of Gillian Flynn’s ‘Sharp Objects,’ particularly in how both authors delve into the minds of their complex female leads. If you’re a fan of detective stories or suspense thrillers, this audiobook will scratch that itch with its unique 1920s setting and relentless twists.
I’d recommend this audiobook to anyone who loves a good mystery, especially those intrigued by historical settings and trailblazing characters. It’s perfect for long drives, quiet evenings, or even as a companion while exploring a new city – much like I did. The blend of horror, suspense, and personal drama makes it a standout in the mystery, thriller, and horror genre. And if you’re looking for an audiobook free option, keep an eye out for promotions or trials on platforms like Audiobooks.com, where you might snag this gem without spending a dime.
Reflecting on this story, I’m reminded of why I chase narratives across continents – it’s about connection, about feeling the pulse of humanity through another’s eyes. Ava Gold’s fight to stop a killer while proving her worth in a man’s world mirrors the quiet, often unseen battles I’ve witnessed in the people I’ve met on my travels. This audiobook experience didn’t just entertain me; it made me think about resilience, about the stories we carry, and the ones we leave behind in the cities we pass through.
Until our paths cross again on the road or through another story, this is Marcus Rivera signing off. Keep listening, keep exploring, and let the tales of the world – like ‘City of Prey’ – guide your way. ¡Hasta pronto!
