I would like to comment on the audio tapes brilliantly narrated by Judy Kaye. I had already read a few books in the series and had enjoyed them very much when idea of trying the audio cassettes occurred to me. Spending two hours per day in the car going to and from work, I found myself stressed out and tired of the news or music on the radio. Since listening to these audio tapes on my commute, I find myself more relaxed, less apt to speed, and surprisingly able to concentrate very well on my driving while listening. What a cure for road rage! Granted, it's not an idea for everyone. I am one of those people who never talks on cell phones while driving because that seems too distracting, but the audio books seem to be no problem for me. I also listen to the tapes in my walkman while at the gym (makes that time on the treadmills or exercise bike go fast!)
Now these aren't the first audio books I have tried, but they are the first that I have been really happy with the narration. Judy Kaye does such a great job, I have a hard time believing that she isn't really Kinsey Millhone - or worse yet - that Kinsey doesn't really exist. Judy's vocal quality and inflections are perfect for the character and while she also does very well on the voices of other characters, she doesn't try to overdo them either. When Kinsey is afraid, tired, ecstatic, - whatever the feelings - Judy's voice lets you know before the words even have a chance to sink in.You only have to compare to some of the other books on tape out there to truly understand the difference. For example try Amanda Quick narrated by Stephanie Beecham, or Sandra Brown, narrated by Morgan Fairchild to compare. And when you stop laughing at how awful those are, give Judy Kaye's narrations of Sue Grafton's brilliant series a chance.
Now I am just waiting for someone to develop the books into an action series for television to make me truly happy!