The Queen of Bedlam: A Matthew Corbett Novel, Book 2

This author was new to me (even though he has been writing for years) and I found this series addicting. After I listened to the first one, I had to hear the rest.

The characters are well developed, the dialogue is wonderful and the humor is so funny and comes out of the blue that I had many REAL laugh-out-loud moments – and a couple of almost-drive-off-the-road moments.
Absolutely delightful series with wonderful narration.

The best way I can think of to describe these "Matthew Corbett" books is: "Harry Potter for adults, minus the magic,with sprinkles of intense darkness". At times you'll get caught up thinking that you're reading a young adult book, and then McCammon will throw in something like a guy that has sex with animals, just to liven things up a bit. I was torn when reading this because part of me can't stand how "young adult" much of the book is, but the other part of me understands that with the ages of most of the characters (including Corbett), it's necessary to have a bit of childishness included in the story. To McCammon's credit, I don't know of another author that can so expertly balance "young adult" subject matter with "dark S&M" so well.

The story takes place in the early 1700's of New York City. Just as a period piece alone, the book succeeds in spades. The story itself does drag at times, but Corbett's lines are witty enough to keep you listening. Ideally, I'd rather see more action, but McCammon's real gift is being able to get inside these characters' heads, and mill about for a while, and that's exactly what he does.

It's not necessary to read the first book, in order to enjoy this one. However, as far as story and action goes, the first book has a slight edge over this one, so you might as well read them in order.

Narrator is great.

Yes. Clever dialogue, great characters, good plot. Just a great read.

When the hero and heroine are trapped and about to be killed, the villain notes "she's not doing very well" and our hero responds "it's her first time being murdered."

His reading is transparent - by that I mean that I can see/experience each character clearly as he creates each unique voice and personality. He manages to voice an array of extremely well-crafted characters without overacting, not once, not ever, so that the listener is never aware of his presence. He's a gem. One of the best readers I've heard.

Moving right on to the next book. I hope McCammon and Ballerini have another one in the hopper, because I'm going to be lonely for Matthew when I finish #4.

I've now listened to all four Matthew Corbett books by Robert McCammon, along with Swan Song, an earlier book. I find the Corbett stories and characters fascinating. Although mostly set in and around eighteenth century New York, don't let the historical nature of the books deter you. McCammon's writing style is full of invention, style and wicked humour.You'll find yourself chuckling one minute, the next wriggling uncomfortably as the young problem solver finds himself in yet another terrifying situation. I've lost count of how many sayings, phrases and concepts I've jotted down in my little notebook. Edoardo Ballerini narrated all four of the Corbett series, and I now rate him as possibly the best reader I've heard - sorry, Scott. The guy has to be heard to be believed. Although it's not totally necessary to read the books in order, I strongly recommend doing just that, starting with Speaks the Nightbird, then working through books 2, 3 and 4. I understand McCammon intends to write 10 books all up in the series, so I guess it won't be long before I'm back in Matthew's wonderful world once again. Do yourself a favour and start listening now.

A terrific story set in early 18th century New York. Edoardo Ballerini once again does a wonderful job on the narration. And the evil that Matthew Corbett encounters and unravels will make you shudder as you listen.

Wonderful series! Hate to turn it off and the narrator does a great job. What more could you want?

Mr. McCammon has the uncanny ability to make unbelievable situations, plausible - and enthralling! Again, I couldn't put this down! The narration was great, and tale was gripping. He introduces the master criminal, and another unattainable love interest. I can't wait to listen to the next installment!

having read the speaks the nightbird i was looking forword to this book ahd I wasnt disappointed .Would recommend as a brollant tale

Finding who the queen of bedlem was

Mathew Corbett

Ranks quite high. Excellent story with lots of depth and character and location development. Gives a good verbal picture of the time and place and has links to past (and future) stories.

Matthew - well developed character with a predictable reaction to all that happens. The character transcends each story which makes listening comfortable.

The nymphomaniacal young lady, name escapes me at moment, with whom Matthew spent an exhausting evening!

Love to see more of these stories, they are quite unique

I didn't think anything could top "Speaks the Nightbird." I was pleased to be so wrong.

HUDSON GREATHOUSE. If you finished McCammon's first book in the series and lamented all the companions that Matthew lost along the way, HAVE NO FEAR. He picks up some great new friends (and enemies) here.

Edoardo Ballerini is a magnificent audiobook narrator. He could breathe life into a shopping list. He brings even more living, breathing believability to these well-written characters.