Engaging Review of Framed in Death (In Death, #61)
I must admit, I was drawn into the world of Framed in Death largely thanks to the ever-inventive imagination of J.D. Robb. This is the 61st installment in the captivating In Death series, and having followed Detective Eve Dallas through her triumphs and tribulations for years, the blend of familiar characters with fresh, intriguing plots keeps me eagerly returning for more. Set in a gripping 2061, where the lines between art and crime blur in the most shocking ways, this latest story feels as timely as ever.
As the book opens, we meet a frustrated would-be artist who believes he can reshape the art world with a series of horrific, staged murders. Inspired by masterpieces like Vermeer’s Girl With A Pearl Earring, he employs Licensed Companions (Lcs) to act as living canvasses—only to kill them post-creation. Each gruesome act unfolds a complex and twisted narrative that takes Detective Dallas and her effervescent partner, Sergeant Delia Peabody, on a high-stakes chase to stop the madness.
Dallas’s dynamic with Peabody remains one of the book’s many highlights. Their banter provides memorable light moments amid the dark themes of murder and obsession. I particularly enjoyed Peabody’s quirky craft artist personality juxtaposed against Dallas’s focused, no-nonsense demeanor. For me, Peabody’s offbeat outlook on life adds a vibrancy that enhances their partnership, making it feel not just like a detective duo but a genuine friendship built on trust.
Robb’s writing style has a knack for blending suspense with relatable character moments. I found myself chuckling at Dallas’s chocolate escapades—her thoughts on coating a stolen candy bar with laxatives made me grin. Yet, the mystery takes center stage, punctuated by gripping forensic details that even have Dallas’s billionaire husband, Roarke, lending a subtle hand. Their relationship, equal parts gripping and tender, offers us a window into their lives, making us care about the stakes.
The pacing in Framed in Death is steady, though I did feel some sections dragged with repetitive interviews and extraneous details about the upcoming trial. While this might highlight the procedural aspect, it occasionally felt as if the plot could use a slight trimming. Regardless, the mystery unfolds cleverly, and I appreciated the meticulous attention to each thread leading back to the killer—an entitled, naive young man with aspirations of fame, reflecting our contemporary society’s obsession with recognition.
Listening to the audiobook narrated by Susan Ericksen added yet another layer to the experience. Her talent, especially in embodying Roarke’s Irish charm, brought the story to life, making the somewhat grim plot delectable and easy to digest.
In conclusion, if you’re a fan of the In Death series, Framed in Death is a must-read (or listen). It’s not just about solving a mystery; it delves into the darker aspects of ambition, art, and love. This installment may resonate with anyone who enjoys a well-crafted, character-driven narrative laced with wit and intrigue. For me, it was another testament to Robb’s ability to keep her long-running series fresh and engaging. I look forward to what’s next for Eve Dallas—will she ever get a break from murder and mayhem?
You can explore more of my thoughts and reviews at Reviews by Barb Saffer. Happy reading!
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