Sound Recommendations: Audiobooks for Spring Listening

Fool Me Once by Harlan Coben: Coben is known for creating tense and twisty thrillers, and fans will like this standalone novel about the investigation of a high-profile New York City murder. Iraq War veteran Maya Burkett, already suffering from PTSD, was the only witness to her husband's death. Despite her frail psyche, she seems determined to help find the shooter. The deeper she digs, however, the more secrets she uncovers, making her question how well she knew her husband. I had a few issues with the way the clues were revealed, but otherwise I enjoyed the book. Audiobook: January LaVoy's expressive performance and good pacing make this a recommended audiobook (Brilliance; 10 hr, 5 min).

The Widow by Fiona Barton: This multilayered mystery/thriller involves the investigation of the disappearance of a little girl from her suburban London garden. Told from several viewpoints, the story touches on issues of marriage, ambition, parenthood, the press, and child pornography. Despite the difficult subject, I liked this novel all the way up to the end. To avoid spoilers, I'll just say I thought there were some unrealistic aspects to the last chapter. Audiobook: Narrators Hannah Curtis and Nicholas Guy Smith head the cast of this audiobook. Each performer captured the personality of his or her character, keeping my attention throughout. Don't hesitate to listen (Penguin Audio; 10 hr, 24 min).

The Madwoman Upstairs by Catherine Lowell: I can't say enough good things about this novel centered on a kind of literary treasure hunt trough modern-day Oxford and the books of the Bronte family. It was just plain fun to read about the trials and tribulations of Samantha Whipple, last surviving Bronte descendant. Between rising above her unconventional upbringing, dealing with people from her late-father's past, and discovering her own passions, Samantha has one heck of a first year at college. Audiobook: Narrator Katie Koster couldn't have done a better job portraying Samantha and tapping into the soul of this novel. Truly a don't-miss audiobook (Blackstone; 11 hr, 52 min).

NOTE: My full audiobook reviews of these titles will be available through AudioFile magazine.