Dead Famous

A Mallory Novel

By: Carol O'Connell

Narrated by: Alyssa Bresnahan

Night had fallen, and the woman looked down at the crumpled letter, as if, in absolute darkness, she could read the postscript: only a monster can play this game.

In Chicago, an FBI agent is killed in a psychiatrist's waiting room. In New York, the jurors from a controversial trial are murdered one by one. The only connections between the two: a flamboyant shock-jock, whose on-air comments seem to be taking him dangerously close to the edge; and a woman, her body misshapen since childhood, whose job it is to clean up crime scenes, and maybe create them as well. This is a federal case, and Mallory's been told that the FBI wants no part of her. But she knows something nobody else does, and besides, when has she ever cared what anyone else wanted?

©2003 Carol O'Connell (P)2003 Listen & Live Audio, Inc.

Critic reviews

"[Bresnahan] wisely opts for a straightforward approach, presenting the book's lengthy descriptive passages in a clear, crisp manner and defining the cast of eccentric characters with subtle vocal shifts. The result is compelling, smartly paced entertainment, as focused and coolly efficient as its affect-less heroine." (Publishers Weekly)
"O'Connell has raised the standard for psychological thrillers." (Chicago Tribune)

Is Mallory the villain or the heroine?

While I enjoyed the story, I had a very difficult time deciding who I was supposed to "like" among the characters. Kathy Mallory is not your typical heroine. In fact I did not like her at all. I really identified more with the character of Jo, at least she seemed to have some human feelings. Since I had not read any Mallory books before, I even found myself wondering if there was any possibility that SHE (Mallory) could be the reaper.

Highly recommended

The Mallory series of mystery books by Carol O'Connell is definitely an acquired taste. I have read all of them and always look forward with great anticipation to each new installment. For some reason, however, when I read this book the first time, I just couldn't get into it and put it down after a few chapters. When I saw it was available in audio format I decided to try it again and I'm so glad I did. I became thoroughly engrossed in the story and really enjoyed the reading. I would recommend it to any Kathy Mallory fan.

I recommend

Would you listen to Dead Famous again? Why?

Probably not. I Usually do not listen to stories I've already heard. A very good story though.

What did you like best about this story?

Dr. Apollo. She was a calculated as Mallory. Refreshing to have Mallory, even if her role is secondary, play her part in the background. The story would not be the same without Riker. You also learn his first name in the story.

Good story, fast moving

This book was fast moving with lots of turns and twists. Personally didn't care for the ending but understand it. Love the Mallory and the depth of her character, well done and insightful.

Fantastic

This author is unbelievable. Her characters are exciting and unexpectedly intelligent and very likable. I love her books.