Review copy was received from Library, Publisher. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
Long Shadows by David Baldacci Narrator: Kyf Brewer, Orlagh Cassidy
Series: Amos Decker #7
Published by Hachette Audio on October 11, 2022
Genres: Mystery
Length: 12 hours, 3 minutes
Format: Audiobook
Source: Library, Publisher
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When Amos Decker is called to South Florida to investigate a double homicide, the case appears straightforward: A federal judge and her bodyguard have been found dead, the judge’s face sporting a blindfold with two eye holes crudely cut out, a clear sign that she’d made one too many enemies over her years on the bench.
What at first seems cut and dry is anything but: Not only did the judge have more enemies than Decker can count—from violent gang members, drug dealers, and smugglers to a resentful ex-husband—but the bodyguard presents additional conundrums that muddy the waters even further. Who was the real target in this vicious attack?
Meanwhile, Decker must contend with a series of unsettling changes, including a new partner—Special Agent Frederica “Freddie” White—and a devastating event that brings Decker’s own tragic past back to the present . . . and forces him to reckon with his future. As potential witnesses start disappearing, Decker and White are inexorably pulled down a twisted tunnel of secrets, crimes, and scandal—at the end of which lies Decker’s deadliest threat yet
I was thrilled to learn there would be another book in the Amos Decker series.  My friend, Berls and I had read the first six books earlier this year and gave them high marks. Long Shadows feels like a whole new chapter in Amos’ life.
Everything felt like a paradigm shift with all of Amos’ previous friends and co-workers having only brief mentions. Amos has been given a new partner, Freddie and they are sent to Florida for a case minutes after they meet. The local FBI folks are incompetent compared to Amos. Not that they are, just that his skills and pace are so much more than many others.
So I don’t want to spoil many things in this exciting story. I can say there was a lot happening with a twisty effect in the murder mystery the new team tackles. There are more players with a farther reach than I imagined. We figured out some aspects but not quite correctly. There is also the politics of the FBI, along with Amos having a new boss and a new partner.
I especially enjoyed the personal growth for Amos. He seems to be relating much better to others, particularly children. He does ok with his new partner. I hope this continues, and obviously that means I need another book!
Narration:
The narration was different, but it’s a duet style that is used in most all of Baldacci’s books. Most of it was the male narrator, but when females spoke dialogue it was the female narrator. The point of view was entirely from Amos I listened at my usual 1.5 speed comfortably.
Listen to a clip: HERE
About David Baldacci
David Baldacci has been writing since childhood, when his mother gave him a lined notebook in which to write down his stories. (Much later, when David thanked her for being the spark that ignited his writing career, she revealed that she’d given him the notebook to keep him quiet, “because every mom needs a break now and then.”) He published his first novel, Absolute Power, in 1996; it was subsequently adapted for film, with Clint Eastwood as its director and star. In total, David has published 36 novels for adults; all have been national and international bestsellers, and several have been adapted for film and television. His novels have been translated into more than 45 languages and sold in more than 80 countries, with over 130 million worldwide sales. David has also published six novels for younger readers.
A lifelong Virginian, David graduated from Virginia Commonwealth University and the University of Virginia School of Law, after which he practiced law in Washington, D.C.
David and his wife, Michelle, are the co-founders of the Wish You Well Foundation®, which supports family and adult literacy in the United States. In 2008 the Foundation partnered with Feeding America to launch Feeding Body & Mind, a program to address the connection between literacy, poverty and hunger. Through Feeding Body & Mind, more than 1 million new and used books have been collected and distributed through food banks to families in need.
David and his family live in Virginia.
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I read all types of books but my favorites are urban fantasy and romantic suspense.I like some romance and some action / adventure / mystery in everything.I like sex in my books but please, only between TWO people.Intimate conversation is equally important to the sex in a book.It lets me see the characters.The other thing I enjoy is humor.
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Reading this book contributed to these challenges:
- 23-COYER
I have got to get caught up in this series! So wonderful that you’re still loving it, Anne💜
This series is one of the best. You recommended it to me originally. I’m currently listening to the first in the King & Maxwell series.
it’s been a while since I read him and I haven’t read this series but I think I might look into it. Thanks
I’ve been on a bit of a David Baldacci binge this year and this series is one of my favorites.
Nice that you got a new case with Amos Decker after wrapping up the earlier books on a high note.
It’s really a great series.
I enjoy most Baldacci books and I really liked the introduction of Decker’s story – something different! I only read the first 4 and got derailed….I even own the next two! Guess I better catch up so I can enjoy this one. I find Baldacci very readable and approachable in his stories.
I have just discovered Baldacci in the last few years and am working to read all his books. I’ve read Amos, Will Robie, Atlee Pine and John Puller. I’ve just started King & Maxwell and I seem to love them all.
I really enjoyed the first 2 or 3 books in this series and need to get back to it. This sounds like another great installment.
I’ve loved everything David Baldacci that I have read.
I have not read any books by David Baldacci, but I’ve always wanted to.
Every single thing I have read was really enjoyable I highly recommend him. I’ve read 4 series and have just started another one. They are addictive.
I’m a big fan of David Baldacci but I haven’t started this series yet. Love this narration duo! They did the Will Robie books and I loved them! Must start this series soon!
This is one of my favorite DB series. I started with Atlee Pine, then John Puller, Amos Decker, Will Robie and now just starting King & Maxwell.