RUINS OF WAR

Rob Shapiro's narration of Connell's novel is inconsistent. At times, his delivery seems detached and at other times passionately expressed, a disjointedness that makes it difficult for listeners to connect with the story or develop any empathy for the protagonist. The setting is post-WWII Germany, but Shapiro provides little indication of that distinctly harsh time and place. Connell's narrative itself is mediocre, with sporadic shining moments, but Shapiro's distance throughout much of the audio prevents the audiobook from achieving the saving grace of a gripping performance. Unless listeners are especially fond of historical fiction involving serial killers, RUINS OF WAR is an audiobook they can safely pass on. J.F. © AudioFile 2015, Portland, Maine [Published: JULY 2015]