A Dave Robicheaux Audio Collection
I have heard nearly all the James Lee Burke audiobooks including abridged and unabridged versions of his books read by both Will Patton and Mark Hammer. Most of Burke's later audiobooks that have been abridged are usually about half the length of the unabridged versions. A 12 hour audiobook is condensed into a six hour version which is often OK, especially with Will Patton's superb narration. Unfortunately these five older books are only available as unabridged versions read by Mark Hammer or these 'extra-abridged' versions read by Patton. Each book is only around 3 hours long instead of around 12 hours unabridged! This shows, and a great deal of Burke's superb writing is lost. However, for those who are just starting on Burke, this collection may encourage further listening. Will Patton's voice is wonderful and his characterisations are faultless - you always know which of the gloriously weird characters you are listening to and his evocation of the deep and steamy southern Louisiana is a joy to here.
This selection is OK as a starter, but has been too heavily abridged for those who know Burke.
