Audiobook Sample
Listen to the sample to experience the story.
Please wait while we verify your browser...
- Title: Golden in Death: An Eve Dallas Novel
- Author: J. D. Robb
- Narrator: Susan Ericksen
- Length: 13:52:00
- Version: Abridged
- Release Date: 04/02/2020
- Publisher: Macmillan Audio
- Genre: Mystery, Thriller & Horror, Detective Stories
- ISBN13: 9.78E+12
There’s something about a mystery that unfolds like a winding road through an unfamiliar landscape, pulling you deeper into the unknown with every twist. That’s exactly how I felt diving into ‘Golden in Death: An Eve Dallas Novel,’ the 50th installment in J. D. Robb’s iconic Eve Dallas series. As a travel writer who’s spent countless hours lost in stories while traversing the globe, I found this audiobook experience to be a journey in itself – a thrilling ride through the gritty streets of a futuristic New York City, chasing a killer with a weapon as chilling as a winter night in the Andes.
I’ve always believed that the best stories resonate with personal echoes, and this one hit close to home. It reminds me of a time when I was driving through the Atacama Desert in Chile, listening to ‘One Hundred Years of Solitude’ on audiobook. The surreal landscape outside my window mirrored the magical realism of García Márquez’s words, and the narrator’s voice wove a spell that felt like a campfire tale. Similarly, ‘Golden in Death’ transported me – Susan Ericksen’s narration had that same intimate, gripping quality, pulling me into Eve Dallas’s world as if I were riding shotgun on her investigation. And then there were those evenings in Oaxaca, staying with a family whose grandmother spun stories with such mastery that I still measure every audiobook narrator against her. Ericksen comes close, with her ability to shift tones and embody characters with a storyteller’s grace.
The plot itself is a masterclass in mystery and suspense, fitting perfectly within the detective stories genre. Homicide detective Eve Dallas is tasked with solving the murder of pediatrician Kent Abner, killed by a mysterious golden egg that releases a deadly toxin. The stakes escalate when another victim falls to the same gruesome fate, and Eve must unravel whether she’s dealing with a madman or someone with a hidden connection to both victims. The story unfolds like a labyrinthine trail through a dense jungle – every clue a breadcrumb, every suspect a shadow in the undergrowth. J. D. Robb, the pseudonym of Nora Roberts, crafts a narrative that balances high-stakes thriller elements with the personal struggles of Eve and her billionaire husband, Roarke. You can almost feel the tension in the air, taste the bitterness of unsolved crimes, and hear the urgency in Eve’s relentless pursuit of justice.
What makes this audiobook experience stand out is how it delves into themes of morality and vengeance, wrapped in a futuristic setting that feels both alien and familiar. As someone who’s explored hidden histories and human connections across cultures, I was struck by how Robb examines the ripple effects of past actions – how old grudges can fester into deadly motives. The mystery isn’t just about whodunit; it’s about why, and that depth kept me hooked through every chapter. The horror of the weapon – a toxic airborne fume hidden in something as innocent as a trinket – adds a layer of unease that’s perfect for fans of the thriller and horror genre.
Now, let’s talk about the listening experience itself, because Susan Ericksen’s narration is the beating heart of this audiobook. Her voice is a compass, guiding you through the emotional terrain of the story. She captures Eve’s tough-as-nails demeanor with a steely edge, but softens just enough to reveal the vulnerability beneath. Her portrayal of Roarke, with his Irish lilt and seductive charm, is spot-on – you can almost hear the smirk in his voice. Ericksen’s pacing is impeccable, knowing exactly when to ramp up the tension during a chase or let a quiet moment of grief linger. The audio quality from Macmillan Audio is crisp and immersive, making every sound effect and inflection pop. For longtime fans of the series, as AudioFile Magazine notes, this feels like a visit with old friends; for newcomers, it’s an accessible entry into a richly built world of detective stories and suspense.
That said, no journey is without its bumps. While the audiobook experience is stellar, I found myself occasionally wishing for more depth in some of the secondary characters. As a storyteller who values human connections, I craved a bit more insight into the victims’ lives beyond their role as plot devices. Additionally, while Ericksen’s range is impressive, a few minor characters felt less distinct, blending together in the heat of the narrative. These are small quibbles, though, in an otherwise captivating mystery thriller.
Comparing ‘Golden in Death’ to other works in the genre, it holds its own against heavyweights like Michael Connelly’s Harry Bosch series or Tana French’s Dublin Murder Squad. Where Connelly excels in gritty realism and French in psychological depth, Robb offers a unique blend of futuristic world-building and emotional stakes. For audiobook listeners seeking similar thrills, I’d also recommend checking out Karin Slaughter’s Will Trent series – her mysteries carry that same visceral punch, especially in audio format.
If you’re a fan of mystery, thriller, and horror, or simply love a good detective story, this audiobook is a must-listen. It’s perfect for long drives, quiet evenings, or any moment you want to escape into a world of suspense. While it’s not advertised as a free audiobook, the value of this listening experience is worth every penny – though keep an eye out for promotions or library options for an audiobook free deal. Whether you’re new to Eve Dallas or a longtime follower, ‘Golden in Death’ delivers a story that’s as golden as its title suggests.
Reflecting on this journey, I’m reminded of why I love audiobooks – they’re companions on the road, storytellers in the dark, much like the voices I’ve heard from locals in far-flung places. ‘Golden in Death’ isn’t just a mystery; it’s a reminder of the power of stories to connect us to the unseen, the unspoken, and the unresolved. It left me pondering the weight of justice and the cost of revenge, long after the final chapter faded to silence.
Until our paths cross again, amigos, keep seeking stories that challenge and thrill. This is Marcus Rivera, signing off with a wanderer’s heart and a listener’s ear – may your next audiobook adventure be as unforgettable as a hidden trail at dawn. Adiós!
