Blue Velvet by Iris Johansen

Narrated by Renee Raudman

Iris Johansen’s popular Eve Duncan series is categorized under thriller at Fiction Database but “back in the day” this author – like so many current authors – cut her writing teeth on the series romance genre. Blue Velvet , a Loveswept title from 1985, is one of those early tales.

I picked this audiobook up as a fan of narrator Renee Raudman with full knowledge of the difference in Ms. Johansen’s writing styles. I wasn’t disappointed.

Our hero, Beau Landry, is originally from the South with a delicious-to-hear southern male voice ala Renee. He’s a jaded playboy currently island hopping in the Caribbean when he encounters heroine Kate Gilbert, a resourceful young woman who wins his admiration with her determination to help others no matter the cost to herself. Does that keep this rogue from using that trait against her for his own bemusement?  No. Though he does risk life and limb helping her carry out a rescue mission.

Given the setting of Blue Velvet, I see Kate as an early incarnation of a kickass heroine and Ms. Raudman’s delivery brought that aspect out while keeping her age appropriate. Kate was raised (I use that term loosely) in the tropics by the equivalent of modern day pirates making her understandably independent but surprisingly loyal. She will risk much for those she cares about no matter the consequences.

As with any good adventure, each of our protagonists has a loyal friend at their side throughout. This proves to be a good thing with all the maneuvers required to dodge a foiled drug dealer out for revenge.

These right-hand men, along with other additions to the cast of characters, add to the listening enjoyment by broadening the diversity used to portray and define each with accents, age, or an attitude that never confuses as to who is who when listening.

I enjoyed this older romance story by Ms. Johansen for exactly what it is added to an early peek at her suspense skills. Both facets were enhanced by Renee Raudman’s flawless timing and in-the-moment feelings as she brought Blue Velvet delightfully to life.
Brenda

Narration: A

Book Content: B+

Steam Factor: Surprisingly glad I had my earbuds in given the original 1985 release date

Violence: Minimal fighting

Genre: Contemporary

Publisher: Brilliance