AN EASY DEATH

Eva Kaminsky's engaging narration plunges listeners headlong into Charlaine Harris's new alternate history-western-fantasy series, featuring Lizbeth "Gunnie" Rose. Following the assassination of President Franklin Roosevelt, the U.S. fragments into a domain of multiple empires. Tragedy strikes hard and fast during a routine desert escort, forcing the young gunslinger to accept a job protecting wizards of the Holy Russian Empire as they travel through Mexico and Texas. Kaminsky gives the resourceful heroine a no-nonsense tone and sharp-eyed pragmatism, and provides distinctive characterizations of supporting characters. As their fraught southwest journey unfolds, Kaminsky heightens the action and intrigue with deliberate pacing. Despite a disappointing conclusion and Kaminsky's occasional slight inhalations, this production leaves listeners hoping for more. J.R.T. © AudioFile 2019, Portland, Maine [Published: JANUARY 2019]