Audiobook Sample

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Dear fellow adventurers of the literary world,

Listening to **Hot Blooded**, written by Lisa Jackson and narrated by Alyssa Bresnahan, felt like wandering through the shadowed streets of New Orleans during a humid summer night. The story grips you right away, with suspense that builds like the slow roll of thunder in the distance. As a travel writer and audiobook enthusiast, I often find myself drawn to tales that evoke a strong sense of place and atmosphere—and this audiobook does just that.

The book begins with a chilling premise: a prostitute is found strangled in a French Quarter hotel room, while miles away, late-night radio host Dr. Samantha Leeds starts receiving threatening calls. The convergence of these seemingly unrelated events sets the stage for a tangled mystery packed with twists, turns, and secrets lurking in the dark corners of the city. Jackson’s ability to weave romance, mystery, and thriller elements together is nothing short of masterful.

What struck me most about this audiobook was how vividly it captured the essence of New Orleans. Listening to it reminded me of my own travels through the city—its rich history, vibrant culture, and the way the air seems thick with stories waiting to be told. I couldn’t help but recall a particular evening I spent walking along the banks of Lake Pontchartrain, where the plantation homes seemed to hold secrets of their own. That same eerie sensation permeates the setting of **Hot Blooded**, making it feel as though the city itself is a character in the story.

**Samantha Leeds**, the protagonist, is a fascinating character. Her role as a late-night radio host is more than a job; it’s a window into her psyche. The calls she receives—from a mysterious woman claiming to be someone from her past, and from an ominous stalker—add layers of psychological tension that kept me riveted. Samantha is strong and relatable, yet flawed, which makes her journey through fear and self-discovery all the more compelling.

The narration by **Alyssa Bresnahan** is a standout feature of this audiobook. Her voice is rich and evocative, perfectly capturing the sultry, oppressive atmosphere of New Orleans. Bresnahan’s ability to shift seamlessly between characters—whether it’s the vulnerable Samantha, the seductive Ty Wheeler, or the chilling voice of the killer—adds depth to the listening experience. It reminded me of evenings spent in Oaxaca, where a grandmother’s storytelling brought characters to life so vividly that you felt as though you were sitting in their presence. Bresnahan achieves that same intimacy and immediacy, drawing you into the story as though you’re an active participant.

The pacing of the audiobook is another strength. Bresnahan’s measured delivery builds suspense effectively, allowing the tension to mount gradually without ever feeling rushed. The moments of romance, mystery, and horror are balanced beautifully, creating a listening experience that feels dynamic and engaging.

However, no story is without its limitations. While the mystery kept me on edge, some of the romantic elements felt slightly predictable. Ty Wheeler, the enigmatic neighbor, is a compelling character, but his connection to Samantha seemed to develop a bit too quickly to feel entirely organic. That said, the chemistry between the two is palpable, and their interactions add a layer of emotional complexity to the narrative.

For listeners who enjoy works by authors like Nora Roberts or Karin Slaughter, **Hot Blooded** will feel like familiar territory, yet it holds its own unique charm. The blend of suspense, romance, and psychological depth makes it a versatile audiobook that will appeal to fans of multiple genres.

As I listened to this audiobook while driving through the winding roads of Big Sur, I couldn’t help but feel the parallels between the atmospheric descriptions in the story and the fog-drenched cliffs outside my window. The audiobook’s ability to transport you to another world is one of its greatest strengths, and it’s a testament to both Jackson’s writing and Bresnahan’s narration.

If you’re looking for a story that will keep you guessing until the very end, while immersing you in the moody, mysterious allure of New Orleans, **Hot Blooded** is a fantastic choice. It’s a journey through secrets, danger, and redemption that will leave you breathless.

I wholeheartedly recommend this audiobook to fans of suspenseful, character-driven narratives. And if you’ve never visited New Orleans, this might just inspire you to pack your bags and experience the city for yourself.

Warm regards,
Marcus Rivera

Warmest regards,