The Chalk Girl

A Mallory Novel, Book 10

By: Carol O'Connell

Narrated by: Barbara Rosenblat

Audie Award Nominee, Best Thriller/Suspense Category, 2013

New York Times best-selling author Carol O’Connell has won a wide fan base with her popular novels starring NYPD detective Kathy Mallory. In The Chalk Girl, a little girl is abandoned in Central Park—with her uncle’s body in a tree not far away. Recognizing a kindred spirit in the girl, Mallory takes the case. But her investigation soon leads to a trail of murder and blackmail spanning 15 years.

©2011 Carol O'Connell (P)2012 Recorded Books, LLC

Critic reviews

"[A] rich, character-driven series." ( Library Journal)

Don't understand this author's lack of fame!

What did you love best about The Chalk Girl?

The story itself is a masterpiece. Carol O'Connell is so very talented that it boggles my mind that she is not as well known as some other authors of the genre. The performance was pitch perfect as well. I love, love, love Mallory and all the "supporting" characters.

Did the plot keep you on the edge of your seat? How?

Most definitely.

Have you listened to any of Barbara Rosenblat’s other performances before? How does this one compare?

Yes. This is her best performance yet.

Compelling story and superb narration

Carol O'Connell has crafted yet another wonderful story with Mallory, Charles, Riker, et al, and has spiced the mix with the addition of a small lost child found in Central Park. Despite herself, Mallory becomes involved with the little girl, although she certainly never would admit it. But some feelings are there. Barbara Rosenblat's narration is superb! She gives each character exactly the voice I had heard in my head while reading the earlier books, with great expression of emotions and of New York attitude. Wish I hadn't already read all the earlier Mallory books, so I could listen to Barbara Rosenblat read them.

Worth a listen

Would you listen to The Chalk Girl again? Why?

No just because I never read anything twice. But if I did yes this book worth another read

What was one of the most memorable moments of The Chalk Girl?

The beginning of each chapter

Which character – as performed by Barbara Rosenblat – was your favorite?

She always does a great job whatever she reads is one of my favorite narrators

Any additional comments?

Was an enjoyable listen and made me want to know more about characters and go back and listen to others books. Read this based on others recommendations and was glad I did

mixed impressions

Would you recommend this audiobook to a friend? If so, why?

No, because the violence is so mind bending. If such violence is needed to continue a series perhaps the series should end. Convoluted story line, repeating narration of horror perpetrated by children and adults. The narrator is excellent throughout. Find more books read by her.

What was your reaction to the ending? (No spoilers please!)

Mixed. This book had too many story lines, too much twist. Ending was not so surprising to me if one listened carefully during the book.

What does Barbara Rosenblat bring to the story that you wouldn???t experience if you just read the book?

Ms Rosenblat's voice is so capable of variance and expression. I always knew who was talking and what they meant. No need for she said, he said as other narrators say endlessly..

Was this a book you wanted to listen to all in one sitting?

no.

Any additional comments?

I'd rec'd the earlier books. But just like with the Bones series, the violence is so out of control to keep things 'new' that it is ridiculous and not something I want to hear.

Carol O'Connell is always brilliant

If you could sum up The Chalk Girl in three words, what would they be?

I love her characters, especially Mallory. I also loved the Chalk Girl and her rats. I don't notice O'Connell's writing, which means I am enjoying it quite a lot. She's one of my favorite mystery writers.