Audio Books in Review

Divine Justice

// September 11th, 2009 // Reviews

Written by David Baldacci
Read by Ron McLarty

A friend of mine recently posted on Facebook that she was enjoying reading the new David Baldacci book, and because she hasn’t steered me wrong in the past, I decided to take the tip, and purchased the book from Audible later that day. And I’m glad I did.

Oliver Stone is a war hero, who went on to become an assasin for the U.S. Government. And as the book open, he’s just killed two highly-placed Americans to avenge the murders of some of his friends and family. Because the victims of his violence are high-profile, he’s well aware that the Feds will be hot on his trail, so he beats feet out of town. He never arrives at his intended destination, because circumstances land him in the small town of Divine. Joe Knox is a CIA agent, sent to track down Stone and bring him to justice. But as he begins his investigation, he finds that all is not as it seems. The book offers a number of solid twists and turns, and introduces some very bad people and some pretty good ones. There’s a nice little love story running through it as well. Also, we’re filled in on Stone’s history…which is long and very complicated.

Baldacci is a terrific writer. This is the first thing I’ve read from him, but I’m quite sure it won’t be the last. I got enough of a taste for Stone’s background that I’d like to hear more.

Ron McLarty was a real treat. This is my first exposure to him, but he’s instantly entered the ranks of my Top 5 favorite readers. He’s got a wonderful voice…deep and slightly raspy…with very solid characterizations. He has a slightly odd take on just a few words…maybe a dozen throughout the book…but I couldn’t hear anything else at all for which I could offer a criticism. He’s very, very easy to listen to…even for the nearly 12 hours of this book. And I note that he’s read almost all of Baldacci’s stuff…so I’ll definitely have the pleasure of listening to him again soon.

If you like thrillers, consider this one recommended!