"Delightful!"
While the content of this story is not for everyone, this book has great characters (Tiny Cooper), a compelling plot (two Wills), lots of humor (and cussing), and, most importantly, the two narrators are tremendous in bringing the two Wills to life. The audio won some award though I can't remember now what it was.
I listened to this book as a requirement for a Young Adult Literature grad class and was thoroughly delighted to discover how good the book was. I think mature young people would especially like this book, but it's also a good listen for open-minded adults. MacLeod Andrews also narrates The Lock Artist, which I really liked as well.
"Pick this one."
I was not that interested in this book after I read the plot summary, but I bought it anywya when friend said she liked it. It sat in my itunes library for a couple of months before I finally listened to it.
However, I was captivated by the story and eventually the narrator (who perfectly fit his character). The novel is really about these two guys, Lev and Kolya; their task to get eggs is only a frame in which to tell their stories. While it is a plot-driven novel, the writing is excellent, and the is story surprisingly funny in places while moving in others. I enjoyed it very much. This is the book that I'm currently recommending to my friends. Also, check out the NY Times' review for a better analysis than mine.
"I say, 'Buy it!'"
This book is one of the best "listens" I've experienced in a long time, and all the members of my book group really liked it as well. Perhaps it should not be classified as a mystery (as one reviewer complains), but it does have elements of mystery. Regardless, the plot is clever, the main character / narrator is engaging (he's a guy you can pull for!), and the chronology of the story is effective. I like that The Lock Artist is not like any other book I've read or listened to. I highly recommend it. Now I'm only hoping for a sequel.
"Worth listening to"
While this selection is not Burke's best (after all, it is an early work) it is still VERY good. I disagree with the review that says this book isn't "about" anything. My feeling is that if you like Burke's style (and his characters), you'll like this. Burke simply knows how to write a novel. And, of course, Will Patton narrating is terrific.
"Buy this book!"
I was a little hesitant to purchase this audio book after having read the reviews, which were mixed. However, I'm a big fan of Elizabeth George, both in audio and in print, and this audio book did not disappoint. The narration by John Lee is award-winning, I think, and the plot is suspenseful and well developed. My only criticism is that it takes a little while to "get into" the book. But it's worth the wait. I thought this audio book was absolutely tremendous and would recommend it to any mystery reader.
"Not Connelly's best"
I've listened to every one of the Harry Bosch novels, and frankly, I like them all. I especially love Bosch's character. Mickey Haller and Jack McEvoy (sp?) don't come close to Bosch. However, 9 Dragons is not among Connelly's best. As other people have said in their reviews, Bosch seems out of character and the plot has flaws. Len Cariou is the perfect narrator for Bosch (though Dick Hill is good) and the novel is a good listen. But if this is your first Bosch novel, don't form an opinion just based on this one. Go back and start at the beginning with The Black Echo (or Black Ice). Novels like Concrete Blonde, Trunk Music, the Last Coyote are among my all-time favorites.
"Narrators are terrific!"
I like the Konrath books (all of them), but I especially like Dick Hill and Susie Breck as narrators. Don't read this book--LISTEN to it. And start with Whiskey Sour if you haven't read any yet.
"Burke always delivers!"
I had already read this book, but when I saw that it was available in an unabridged format with Will Patton reading, I immediately downloaded it. I avoid the Mark Hammer narrations--I don't care for his style. The voice of Dave Robicheaux IS Will Patton. Burke is one of my favorite writers, and I love listening as well as reading.
"One of my favorites"
I can't get enough of the Dave Robicheaux novels (unabridged)with Will Patton narrating. The characters were engaging, but I especially liked the plot of this one. Burke's prose, as always, is lyrical, full of Southern imagery. Very literary but never boring.
"Slow but worth the wait"
A friend recommended this book (to read) so I was reluctant to listen; however, though slow to start, this book really picked up in the middle and was worth the time it took to get into it. By the end, I was a bit sad to finish. The final scene was very touching. I especially liked the narrators.