Having heard many great things about Mary Burton’s work, I jumped at the opportunity to read/listen to Don’t Look Now. Narrated by full cast the story I found myself transported on a journey filled with mystery and suspense.
In Burton’s latest romantic thriller, we meet Detective Jordan Poe. A topnotch detective, but stubborn as the day is long. Jordan took on the role of taking care of her younger sister, Avery, after the death of their mother. Since then, their lives did not take the easy road. Avery hung out with the wrong crowd and soon became involved in drugs. The turning point to getting her life back on track was the day Jordan found her bound, wrapped in plastic and left to suffocate.
Two years later Jordan visited a crime scene and found the victim bound, wrapped tightly in plastic and gagged. Then she found another victim murdered in the same fashion. Immediately, her thoughts flashed back to the day she rescued her sister. She recognized the murders mirrored the manner in which she found her sister two years ago. The only difference her sister lived. The case became personal as a result, so you can imagine her turmoil when she learnt that Texas Ranger Carter Spencer would take over the case.
I enjoyed the story from start to finish. The suspense kept me on the edge of my seat. The crime scenes are gritty and definitely not for the faint of heart. Jordan’s captain took her off the case, but she went and did her own investigation. Eventually, she and Jordan became a team. I loved how well they worked together, even after an attack left her blind.
Although advertised a romantic suspense, the romance was non-existent. First, I never felt the chemistry between Jordan and Spencer. Also, expressions of feelings were not portrayed until near the end and it didn’t feel authentic.
I had a fair idea as to the identity of the villain. Given the nature of the victims, it wasn’t too hard to figure out the who and the why. However, it would have been nice to have the perpetrator’s back story. I never understood his motive and what compelled him to effect such heinous acts.
Narration
This was my first time experiencing a full cast narration, and I enjoyed the experience. I have listened to Hillary Huber before, but the other narrators were new to me. They all did a wonderful job bringing the story and the characters to life. I would definitely listen to them again
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Conclusion/ Recommendation
Despite the issues I had with the romance and lack of backstory for the perpetrator, I enjoyed Don’t Look Now. I found the suspense to be well done, especially at the point where the end was drawing close. For readers who enjoy mystery, suspense and gritty crime scenes, Don’t Look Now would make a great addition to their reading list.